Many laptops, including the HP Probook laptops commonly used by BRCC employees, use the Function Keys (F1 - F12) at the top of the keyboard to control specific laptop functions. For example, by pressing the correct key combination, you can quickly increase or decrease the brightness of your screen or mute your laptop speakers. 


Option A: Default to use NORMAL F1-F12 key functions:

(This is recommended by IT staff)


If you prefer to let the function keys function as normal, ensure the "Function lock" is enabled. 

  1. Hold the LEFT shift key and press the "Fn" button (near lower left of keyboard)
  2. Repeat if necessary until the "Fn" key has a small light on it


To use the special laptop functions indicated on the keys:

  • Hold the "Fn" key and press the desired function key


Option B: Default to using the laptop-shortcut functions


If you prefer the F1-F12 function keys operate the laptop-specific shortcuts, make sure "Function lock" is disabled. 

  1. Hold the LEFT shift key and press the "Fn" button
  2. Repeat if necessary until the "Fn" key does NOT have a light on it


To use the function key as normal

  1. Hold the "Fn" key and press the desired function key


Important Note regarding F9+F11 Panic function: If the "Fn" light is NOT on, then you will need to hold the "Fn" key while pressing F9+F11 to trigger the panic alert. This is why IT staff recommend option "A" above.


Here is a link to an HP article with additional details.