Microstation

How to Set Function Keys in Microstation?

Understanding Function Keys in MicroStation

Function keys, labeled F1 through F12 on your keyboard, serve as shortcuts for various tasks within MicroStation. They streamline workflows by allowing users to access commands with ease. Configuring these keys to suit individual preferences enhances productivity.

Adding Function Keys in MicroStation

To incorporate additional function keys into your MicroStation setup, follow these systematic steps:

  1. Identify Keyins: Determine the specific Keyin commands that are relevant to the tools you frequently use.

  2. Access Function Key Settings: Navigate to the menu and select File, then move to Settings, followed by User, and finally click on Function Keys.

  3. Save Settings: Once you have made your adjustments, click the Save button, and subsequently choose File and Save Settings to ensure your changes are preserved.

Customizing Function Keys

Tailoring the function keys to align with your workflow will enhance your efficiency. To customize, adhere to these instructions:

  1. Open Preference Settings: Begin by launching the host session window.

  2. Navigate to Keyboard Settings: Click on Edit, then choose Preference, and select Keyboard. Alternatively, you can click the Remap button found on the toolbar.

  3. Select Key Assignment: Access the Key Assignment tab to view your current key configurations.

  4. Choose Desired Category: Browse through the categories to find the relevant function you intend to modify.

  5. Designate a Function: From the list, pinpoint the specific function you wish to link to a function key.

  6. Assign a Key: Click on the Assign a Key option and follow the prompts to finalize your changes.

Modifying Hotkeys for Function Keys

To alter the shortcut combinations tied to function keys, follow these steps:

  1. Initiate the Shortcut Process: Start with either CTRL or one of the function keys.

  2. Access Key Input: Utilize the TAB key to move your cursor into the box labeled Press new shortcut key.

  3. Enter the New Combination: Press your desired combination of keys to register it as the new shortcut. For instance, if you want to use CTRL with a specific function key, press them together.

Saving Function Keys in MicroStation

To maintain your custom function key settings, execute these steps:

  1. Close the Application: Begin by closing MicroStation completely.

  2. Locate the Fkeys Folder: Navigate to the directory path MicroStation V8i (SELECTseries)WorkspaceInterfacesFkeys.

  3. Backup the Configuration File: Move the file named funckey.mnu to a different location (like your desktop) for safekeeping.

  4. Restart and Configure: Reopen MicroStation, load a project, navigate to Workspace, and select Function Keys to define the actions tied to each key, including F1.

Binding Function Keys to Programs

Binding function keys to specific programs allows for quick access. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Choose a Function Key: Press the desired function key (e.g., F2) on your keyboard.

  2. Link to Application: The operation will bind the selected program to the function key, overriding any previous assignments.

Resetting Function Keys to Default Settings

If you wish to revert your function keys to their original settings, follow these steps:

  1. Restart Your Computer: Begin by rebooting your system.

  2. Access System BIOS: Interrupt the startup process by pressing Enter at the launch screen.

  3. Navigate to Keyboard Settings: Within the BIOS, find the section for Keyboard/Mouse setup.

  4. Set Primary Function Keys: Adjust the F1-F12 keys to be the primary keys.

  5. Save Changes: Ensure you save your settings before exiting the BIOS.

Reprogramming Keyboard Keys

Customizing key commands is straightforward. Use the following process to reprogram keys:

  1. Open Host Session Window: Start with the main workspace.

  2. Navigate to Keyboard Preferences: Click Edit, then Preference, and choose Keyboard or use the Remap button.

  3. Select and Change Assignment: Go to the Key Assignment tab, select a category, pick the function, and choose Assign a Key.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I revert to the original function key settings?
Yes, you can reset your function keys by accessing the BIOS settings during startup and setting the F1-F12 keys to their default configuration.

2. Are function keys customizable for all tools in MicroStation?
Most tools can be customized via function keys, allowing you to enhance your workflow based on your specific preferences.

3. How do I access the key-in command in MicroStation?
You can typically access the key-in command by pressing F9, or by selecting the Key-in button from the Primary Tools toolbox, though this may be hidden by default.

About the author

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang is a renowned figure in the CAD (Computer-Aided Design) industry in Canada, with over 30 years of experience spanning his native China and Canada. As the founder of a CAD training center, Wei has been instrumental in shaping the skills of hundreds of technicians and engineers in technical drawing and CAD software applications. He is a certified developer with Autodesk, demonstrating his deep expertise and commitment to staying at the forefront of CAD technology. Wei’s passion for education and technology has not only made him a respected educator but also a key player in advancing CAD methodologies in various engineering sectors. His contributions have significantly impacted the way CAD is taught and applied in the professional world, bridging the gap between traditional drafting techniques and modern digital solutions.