Function Modifier Key Recorded but Not Displayed in ShortcutView about masshortcut

[shpakovski]

The fn modifier is not accessible to the software. I believe it is a pure hardware key which should not have any character representation.

[DenVog]

Thanks for your prompt reply.

1. What do you mean "not accessible to the software"? Best I can tell, the fn key is being recorded and detected as a modifier.
2. I guess I'm not clear how fn is different from control, option, or command.
   Not trying to argue. Just trying to understand better.
   Thank you.

[shpakovski]

1. My bad, I have just rechecked APIs. It seems like fn key can be recognized as part of the shortcut. However, I have not yet seen software that includes fn into the hotkey. Could you please provide a title or two?
2. I think the key fn is different from other modifiers because it is working only with the top keyboard row. For instance, when you type fn+d, it is the same as plain d.

No problem at all, I really want to discuss this thing and help if I can :)

[DenVog]

1. The example that comes to mind is Boot Camp. It did stuff like Print Screen, Scroll Lock, etc. with fn as a modifier.
   http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1220?viewlocale=en_US&locale=en_US
   Your demo project also uses fn-command-F2. I thought it was broken, as the window shows "Use ⌘F2". So I kept pressing Command-F2. Maybe it is just me. :)
2. Point taken. Thanks for your time and thoughtful reply.

[shpakovski]

By default, OS X does not enable F2, F3 etc. It is assumed that these keys are not accessible until you press the fn key. However, you can change this in the Keyboard System Preferences so that function buttons are available, but you will press fn for Playback and Sound keys. Hope this helps :)