Apple Pro Keyboard Layout (KBD) for Windows XP/ Windows Vista

UPDATE: Also compatible with new Apple Keyboard

2009-06-22 - v2 now available - XP 32-bit and 64-bit, Vista 32-bit and 64-bit compatible. Windows 7 RC should be compatible, but not tested.

 

Do you use the UK Apple Pro Keyboard or the new slek aluminium Apple Keyboard with Windows XP or Windows Vista?

Are you severely pissed off because none of the supplied keyboard layouts in Windows XP or Vista match up with the key legends on the keyboard, even when you use the US English or US Extended English layouts?

I was, so I decided to remedy the situation so I could use the keyboard without getting # instead of £ or @ instead of " whenever I was working on a document or email or anything at all.

So after extensive research I discovered the best thing to do was create a specific keyboard layout for myself, as far as I can tell no one has created one before - which I find strange.

So here it is, and it's free of charge for home or commercial use. But if you find it useful, you are welcome to make a small donation as a token of gratitude via PayPal. Click here to make a donation.

Download

Download the installation package Apple_Pro_KBD_v2.zip (250K)

System requirements

Windows XP or Windows Vista, 32-bit or 64-bit versions. Maybe Windows 7 RC but not tested. Apple Pro Keyboard or new aluminium Apple Keyboard. Untested with wireless keyboards but it should work okay.

Installation

After unZipping the Apple_Pro_KBD_v2.zip file, open the Apple Pro KBD v2 directory and run the Setup.exe installation file.

The installer will run and automatically install the keyboard layout .dll file into the correct location for your operating system.

To remove the keyboard layout simply run the installer again.

Configuration

Use the Windows XP Regional and Language Options control panel to select the new keyboard layout. Full details are included in the read me text file included in the ZIP download.

For those of you who want a step-by-step guide with pictures that you can print out, click here.

Sorry there's no Vista step by step, but I have skillfully avoided Vista since it's release.

Keystrokes

All keys now operate as per the legends printed upon them.

 

Shift-2 = @

Ctrl-Alt-2 = €

Shift-3 = £

Ctrl-Alt-3 = #