[ih.general] HP2621P Function Keys

mdb@ihuxq.UUCP (Mark Brukhartz) (12/16/83)

Your function keys are not programmable. They stubbornly insist
on generating escape sequences (ESC-q through ESC-w) and sending
them in "transmit" mode (followed by a CR). The only 2621-series
terminal with programmable function keys is the 2621B (which has
an optional printer, although its name doesn't reflect that).

All is not lost. Vi can be programmed to recognize arbitrary escape
sequences via its "map" command.

Set your 2621P's "G" and "H" configuration straps, disable the "E"
handshake mode and enable "X" handshaking. This will stop various
funny forms of ENQ-ACK handshaking, which are not supported by Unix.

Now use the vi "map" command to translate your function keys into
editing commands. You'll need vi's ^V transparent escape to enter
various control characters (such as ESC and CR) into the command.
For example, type ":map ^V^[q^V^M dd" to map the f1 key into a
delete line command (where ^V is control-V, ^[ is ESC and ^M is
CR).

You can also place "map" commands in your .exrc file (or EXINIT
environment variable), where they will be automagically executed
every time you invoke ex or vi. You don't need actual ^V escapes
in .exrc (although you'll need ^V to put the necessary control
characters into the file in the first place).

Good luck, and may the (electromotive) Force be with you.

				Mark Brukhartz
				ihnp4!ihuxq!mdb