ThinkPad workaround for no "super" key

Question

My ThinkPad x43 has no Super key. Most of the keyboard shortcuts in 11.04 use this button:
What are Unity's keyboard and mouse shortcuts?

What to do with Unity now? Is there a way to map the Fn button to super or something like this?

Solution 1

If you don't mind losing your left Alt key, you can swap it with the Win key.

Open the Keyboard control panel, go to the Layout tab and select Options.... Expand the Alt/Win key behaviour section, and select Left Alt is swapped with Left Win.

Solution 2

Using the keyboard layout properties I set Caps Lock as another Super key and then it works the same way as a Windows key it seems. At least it opens the Dash.

Solution 3

You can remap almost anything to Super. Assuming the below is really an x43 keyboard (the internet swears it is), I'd go for the page left/page right keys on either side of the up-arrow on the bottom right. You're likely to regret remapping Fn.

You probably need to use xev and xmodmap. This is a command line operation.

See also: How do I remap certain keys or devices? -- be sure to read past the accepted answer!

Comments

[Jorge Castro]

Whilst this may theoretically answer the question, it would be preferable to include the essential parts of the answer here, and provide the link for reference.

[jumpnett]

I know, but at that particular time, I didn't have time to do much research, so I was just trying to point him in the right direction.

[Ken Kinder]

Unfortunately, xev doesn't register fn or fn key combinations. FWIW, I wouldn't mind keeping the fn use for brightness, but making it, when pressed alone or with another key, otherwise act like Super.