Num lock

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Num Lock is a key on the numeric keypad of most keyboards, used to switch that pad between number entry and arrow keys. It is a toggle key, like Caps Lock and Scroll Lock. Its state is usually represented by a light on the keyboard.

The Num Lock key exists because earlier 84-key IBM PC keyboards did not have arrows separate from the numeric keypad. Num Lock would be used to choose between the two functions.

[edit] Keys affected by Num Lock

Key Name Numlock On Numlock Off
Numpad 1 1 End key
Numpad 2 2 Down Arrow Key
Numpad 3 3 Page Down
Numpad 4 4 Left Arrow Key
Numpad 5 5 No function
Numpad 6 6 Right Arrow Key
Numpad 7 7 Home key
Numpad 8 8 Up Arrow Key
Numpad 9 9 Page Up
Numpad 0 0 (zero) (comma on some keyboard layouts) Insert key
Numpad . . (dot) Delete key

Num Lock is also used in standard BIOS for extra input.