Shortcuts using arrow keys and arrow keys on the numeric keypad

[M***@adobeforums.com]

Running InD 4.04 on Win XP/SP2 and using a Microsoft Wireless Natural Keyboard.

In the TEXT context, the combinations ALT+UP ARROW / ALT+DOWN ARROW are defined by default to decrease and increase leading, respectively.

I never use the "dedicated" arrow keys (between the main keyboard and the number pad). Instead I use the arrow keys on the number pad (NumLock is turned off, of course).

If I press Alt+Arrow key on the number pad, the leading changes, but when I release the Alt key a new character is inserted -- some non-printing character -- that I have to delete. This doesn't happen if I use the "dedicated" arrow keys.

I have redefined the shortcuts -- deleted the existing shortcut, then re-defined it, making sure to use the arrow key on the number pad. That doesn't change anything.

Can anyone reproduce this behavior? Is the only solution to use the "dedicated" arrow keys?

[C***@adobeforums.com]

Hi Myrna -

I don't know that it's the *only* solution, but it is definitely the *best* one. Just because the keys bear similar markings on the keycaps doesn't mean they are programmed to behave the same way. General Wisdom in a Windows OS is to leave the Num Lock ON & use the dedicated Navigation keys... The exception being if the application's instructions specifically direct you to do otherwise.

Regards |:>)
Bob J.

[M***@adobeforums.com]

Thanks for your insights.

Yes, given that I have programming experience, I realize that the keyboard sends a specific scan code for each key on the keyboard, along with additional bits that indicate whether shift, alt, ctrl are also pressed.

In MS Office you use ALT + digits on the number pad to enter character codes for keys not on the keyboard. Other than that, InD is the only program I've used that makes a distinction between the two sets of arrow keys.

Given that it seems to differentiate them, I wonder why redefining ID's shortcuts using those number pad arrow keys doesn't get ID to recognize them.

Also, InD seems to have it's own "opinion" as to the function of some keys. e.g. I assigned the combination CTRL+ALT+NumberPad 5 to align horizontal centers, and it is displayed as CTRL+ALT+CLEAR. Strange...

Again, thanks for your thoughts.