To unlock the number lock (NumLock) on your ThinkPad laptop, you typically need to press the Fn key in combination with the NmLk key.
On a ThinkPad keyboard, the NmLk key is usually found on the top, right-hand side. This key often shares space with another function key, such as F7, F8, or the Insert key.
How to Enable or Disable NumLock
Based on the standard ThinkPad configuration, here's how to control the NumLock function:
- Locate the NumLock Key: Look for a key on the top row of your keyboard that says "NmLk". It might also have "Num Lock" or a padlock symbol with numbers. This key is frequently combined with another key like F7, F8, or Insert.
- Press the Key Combination: To toggle NumLock on or off, press and hold the Fn key (usually located near the bottom left of your keyboard) and then press the key that functions as NmLk.
For example, if your NmLk function is on the F8 key, you would press Fn + F8 simultaneously. If it's on F7, you press Fn + F7. If it's on the Insert key, you press Fn + Insert.
Here are the common key combinations you might use:
- Fn + F7
- Fn + F8
- Fn + Insert
Pressing this combination will enable or disable the numeric keypad functionality, allowing you to use the keys on the right side of the keyboard as either number inputs or navigation keys (like arrow keys, Home, End, PgUp, PgDn).
Turning NumLock on activates the number pad for typing digits. Turning NumLock off allows those keys to function as navigation keys. You'll often see an indicator light on your laptop or screen when NumLock is active.
