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On my Dell Studio 15, the function keys, by default, do things like switch the radio on/off or change the brightness or sound. To use them as function keys I have to hold down the Fn modifier.

I use function keys as function keys a lot more often than I want to change the volume or brightness.

Am I missing an obvious setting somewhere in the control panel (Vista Uber Extreme Something)?

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There should be a BIOS setting to modify this behavior:

Advanced -> Function Key Behavior -> Function Key First

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Doh! Didn't think of the BIOS settings. New computer and all. I'll check it next time I restart. – RickMeasham Aug 1 '09 at 12:51
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This setting can also be changed through the Windows Mobility Center, look for the "Function Key Row" setting.

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According to a deleted post: the BIOS changes the default, and the Windows Mobility Center (WIN+X) allows toggle. And apparently some computers might fail to honor the default from the BIOS. – Arjan Apr 25 '11 at 19:05
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