(FuNction key) A keyboard key that works like a shift key to activate the second function on a dual-purpose key. Commonly found on laptop keyboards, the Fn key is often used to control hardware functions such as screen brightness and speaker volume. The Fn key may also be found on extra small keyboards for desktop computers, typically for Page Up and Page Down, which are combined with the Up Arrow and Down Arrow keys. See function key.
Like the Shift Key
Activating a second function assigned to a dual-purpose key, the Fn key works like a shift key. For example, the F8 key (bottom) is a dual-purpose key that controls speaker volume. When Fn is held down and F8 is pressed, the ordinary F8 key becomes a volume control.
Like the Shift Key
Activating a second function assigned to a dual-purpose key, the Fn key works like a shift key. For example, the F8 key (bottom) is a dual-purpose key that controls speaker volume. When Fn is held down and F8 is pressed, the ordinary F8 key becomes a volume control.
 | Reproduced with permission from Computer Desktop Encyclopedia. Copyright (c) 1981-2009 The Computer Language Company Inc. All rights reserved. |
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