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If you are running Notes on an iBook laptop and you see unexpected results when using the function keys (F1 through F12), this may be caused by a new feature in the Apple system software.

Background information
Apple has implemented programmable "hot key" function keys on the iBook. Keys F1 through F6 are preconfigured to do common system tasks such as changing the speaker volume or monitor brightness. Keys F7 through F12 can be configured by the user. Apple makes this the default behavior; that is, pressing these keys will be intercepted by the system instead of being processed by the application you are running. This can result in the following behavior: Press a function key, and instead of the expected Notes function executing, an unrelated system action takes place (or a dialog appears regarding 'configuring custom functions').

When this default Apple hot key behavior is enabled, you may still use old-style function keys by holding down the "fn" modifier key (at the lower left of your keyboard) before pressing the function key. When the Apple hot key functionality is turned off, this is reversed, so you must use the "fn" modifier key to access the programmed hot key.

Solutions for Notes users
Either turn off the hot key behavior by default, or, always use the "fn" modifier key when you want function keys to result in the normal Notes function key behavior.

To turn off the default Apple hot key behavior:

• Open the Keyboard control panel (Apple menu, Control Panels, Keyboard).
• Click the button "Function Keys...".
• At the bottom there is a check box, "Use F1 through F12 as Function Keys.
  (When this is selected, hold down the Function key to use hot keys)".
  Make sure this box is checked (on).
• Click OK.
• Close the Keyboard control panel.
• F-keys within Notes (and other applications) should now work as expected.
• You can still use the programmed Apple hot keys by holding down the "fn" modifier key and pressing the desired F-key.