Volume mute/down/up function keys (i.e. "fn" keys) are not working as expected.

[SimonStarkie]

Volume mute/down/up function keys (i.e. "fn" keys) are not working as expected. 

My old computer (Gateway AIO) required that the "fn" key be held down while at the same time pressing "fn6" or "fn7" or "fn8" to mute or lower or raise the volume being played currently.

Solution:

My new HP ENVY AIO no longer requires the "fn" key to be held down anymore. 

It is only necessary to just press "fn1", "fn2" or "fn3" key  to mute, lower or raise the volume. 

Note, the function keys have changed from "fn6", "fn7" and "fn8" to "fn1", "fn2" and "fn3" for some reason.

[Sneha_01 · Accepted solution]

Hi @SimonStarkie,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.

It sounds like your new HP ENVY All-in-One (AIO) has different function key configurations compared to your old Gateway AIO. This is common with different brands and models of computers, as they often have their own unique key mappings and settings. Here’s a guide to understanding and troubleshooting function key issues on your new HP ENVY AIO:

1. Understanding Function Key Behavior

On many laptops and all-in-one PCs, function keys (F1, F2, etc.) can have different behaviors based on the system settings:

• Function Key Mode: Some computers require you to hold down the Fn key to access special functions (like volume control), while others have the functions assigned to the keys by default.
• Key Mapping: The specific functions assigned to each key can vary between models and manufacturers.

2. Adjusting Function Key Settings

You can often adjust the behavior of function keys through BIOS/UEFI settings or system software. Here’s how you can check or adjust these settings on your HP ENVY AIO:

Check BIOS/UEFI Settings

Enter BIOS/UEFI:

• Restart your computer and press Esc, F2, or F10 (depending on the model) during startup to enter BIOS/UEFI settings.

Navigate to Function Key Behavior:

• Look for a section related to System Configuration, Advanced, or Keyboard.

Adjust Function Key Behavior:

• Find the option for Action Keys Mode or similar. If it’s enabled, you generally don’t need to hold down the Fn key for special functions like volume control. If it’s disabled, you will need to hold Fn to use these functions.

Save and Exit:

• Save your changes and exit BIOS/UEFI. Your computer will restart with the new settings.

Check HP Support Software

Open HP Support Assistant:

• Use the HP Support Assistant software to check for updates and settings related to keyboard functions.

Look for Keyboard Settings:

• Navigate to the Settings or Diagnostics sections to see if there are options to adjust function key behavior.

Update Drivers:

• Ensure that your keyboard drivers are up to date through the HP Support Assistant.

3. Customizing Function Keys in Windows

In Windows, you can sometimes customize the function keys using the following methods:

Windows Mobility Center:

• Press Win + X and select Mobility Center. Look for settings related to function keys or keyboard shortcuts.

Keyboard Settings:

• Open Settings > Devices > Typing or Keyboard. Some settings might be available to adjust function key behavior or shortcuts.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.

Rachel571

HP Support