So I got this super cool new Alienware laptop and It really is super awesome. One problem though. Alt codes like alt 0151 to type a dash only work on number keypads and not on a keyboard that only has the number row up top. How can I get my dashes?

The physical appearance of the please does not affect me...

But I'll see what I can do.

On one of my computers, you can set it to automatically replace a double small dash with a more standard long dash. I'm not sure how to do this, but the command is somewhere in autoreplace in word processors.

Otherwise, I think you just have to insert them manually with the character map, or stick with two short dashes -- like I just did.

Hope that is at least somewhat helpful!

I think I'm going to have to buy a usb connected number pad.... but not sure if those would work with the alt key codes or not.

I have no idea.

I have a USB 10key, I can test it for you if you like -- what exactly should I do to check?

try any alt code. If one works they should all work. I often use alt 0151 for long dashes. you can play around and try 0151 0152 0153 etc etc. Thanks Aniese

No problem at all.

Unfortunately, I tried it and it didn't work. It won't recognize the alt codes with the external 10key, though I have no idea why.

But at least now you know I guess. That's rather annoying!

yeah... it's a bummer. But I figured out a way to get around it. I'll just copy a dash and anytime i need it I'll just paste it. quicker actually than typing the code.

Oh yes, I've done things like that before. Very clever.