Share via

Alt codes for special characters not working

Anonymous
2019-11-26T09:13:50+00:00

I have a new Lenovo Yoga 530 with Windows 10.  My keyboard doesn't have a numpad on the right hand side.

Alt codes for special characters are not working in document apps or any other text input area in a web browser etc.

I have done the following but it hasn't worked:

  1. Ease of Access Mouse settings:  'Use Mouse Keys when Numlock is on' -> OFF
  2. Regedit -> HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Input Method -> Created a string value called EnableHexNumpad with the value of 1
  3. Use Fn and Alt keys

Nothing works to get special characters. I can use the Charmap function but it is long-winded and not conducive for fast typing (I type in languages that contain many special characters.)

Any ideas? Suggestions?

Windows for home | Windows 10 | Settings

Locked Question. This question was migrated from the Microsoft Support Community. You can vote on whether it's helpful, but you can't add comments or replies or follow the question.

0 comments

Answer accepted by question author

Anonymous
2019-11-26T11:58:34+00:00

Hi DeliaBester,

Unfortunately there is no way to use Alt + number pad codes with Lenovo Yoga laptops, as there is no number pad emulation functionality on the keyboard. Manufacturers in general seems to be increasingly removing number pads behind, which is arguably a controversial change.

The built in function for many modern Lenovo laptops is using the On-Screen keyboard but I imagine that would be most inconvenient for your requirements.

Anyway, Charmap.exe is a good alternative, as well as AutoHotkey tool -- whilst AutoHotkey uses macros or quick combinations to get the characters you need. Another alternative is to use the Symbol functionality of your software applications - Microsoft Office applications from 2010 onwards allow you to customise the ribbon, so you can add Symbol to the Home tab.

External (bluetooth/wired) number pads might be your best solution.

Best,

Was this answer helpful?

4 people found this answer helpful.
0 comments

1 additional answer

Sort by: Most helpful
Most helpful Newest Oldest
  1. Anonymous
    2019-11-26T12:32:37+00:00

    Thank you for your informative response & suggestions, RichardGuerzon.

    Was this answer helpful?

    0 comments