Unable to type a backslash '\' using Remote Desktop Connection (RDC)

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Level 1

8 points

Unable to type a backslash '\' using Remote Desktop Connection (RDC)

Hello all,

When using Remote Desktop Connection, I am unable to type a backslash character on my Apple keyboard. My keyboard is a UK layout, and the backslash key is just to the left of the return key. On my PC keyboard (also UK layout), the backslash key is just to the right of the left shift key. Neither results in a backslash in any Windows program or dialog. I've tried using combinations of modifier keys too but no luck. Of course, it would be the backslash key, being vital when using windows 🙂

I realise that this may be an RDC issue but thought that it might have something to do with my Mac configuration (only been using Macs six months or so, so I'm not too sure).

Anyone out there know of a fix for this (other than typing ALT + 0092 each time)?

Thanks in anticipation,

Jon

PowerBook 17, Mac OS X (10.4.4), UK keyboard layout

Posted on Jan 14, 2006 3:48 AM

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Answer 1

Best reply

NiallQ

Level 1

5 points

Jan 15, 2006 12:43 AM in response to JonWhite

Hi, I had this same problem yesterday . I found through looking here and some trial and error that the shift + alt keys give a thrid keyboard layout and the backslash is visible there.

It is not printed as a symbol on my keyboard, yet turning on the virtual keyboard or keeping it handy in the dock is a good way to check where these sorts of symbols are. For my Swiss keyboard the backslash is on the same key as the slash. So Shift + Alt + normal slash key gives me a backslash. I would hope you can find it with this hint.

A quick look at the UK virtual keyboard shows the backslash above the right shift and next to the lower half of the enter key, as being a standard visible key so I am surprised can't find it.

PowerBook G4 Mac OS X (10.4.3)

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Answer 2

JonWhite Author

Level 1

8 points

Jan 15, 2006 3:02 AM in response to NiallQ

Hi,

I tried most of the key with the modifiers but I will go back and try with shift + option. But, the fact that the backslash key is on my keyboard anyway, just like you pointed out, is just confusing me more. It doesn't do anything! I figured it might have to do with \ on a UK Apple keyboard being a different location from a \ on a UK PC keyboard.

Thanks for the tip,

Jon

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Answer 3

Jan 15, 2006 1:00 PM in response to JonWhite

It may be the actual machine your a RDC-ing into that has the trouble, not the Mac.

I suggest you RDC into the PC, run notepad then press everykey on the keyboard in order, then with each modifier, then with each combination of modifiers to see where each key maps to on your mac keyboard.

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