Function key option missing from System Preferences

Question

Level 2

146 points

Function key option missing from System Preferences

The instructions from Apple support page say:
"Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner of the screen, then select System Preferences.
Click the Keyboard icon, then check the box marked “Use all F1, F2, etc. keys as standard function keys.”

BUT...

As screenshot shows, I don't have that box they tell me to check.....Running latest OS, El Capitan 10.11.5 on 3.4 GHz Intel Core i5, with 16Gb Ram.

Is the only option to reinstall the OS?

Why would something like this happen?

Thanks for any ideas...

iMac, OS X El Capitan (10.11), Camera, music gear, Wacom tablet.

Posted on Jul 7, 2016 5:36 AM

Reply

Answer 1

JimmyCMPIT

Level 7

29,306 points

Jul 8, 2016 7:14 AM in response to 60wpm

Are you using an Apple keyboard or 3rd party one?

reboot into safe mode

Try safe mode if your Mac doesn't finish starting up - Apple Support

if that does not fix it you may try to uninstall your wacom device and disconnect it from the computer.

Reply

Answer 2

60wpm Author

Level 2

146 points

Jul 8, 2016 7:19 AM in response to JimmyCMPIT

Thanks for your reply. Tried your ideas, they sounded good, but didn't resolve the problem (although I didn't actually uninstall the wacom tablet, just disconnected it). My computer has been so trouble-free I've forgotten normal troubleshooting ideas.

So...I'll try again after uninstalling wacom, disconnect a hub, try it with the Apple wireless keyboard, (after I'm sure it's paired up), etc. -- I see I have a lot of 'fiddling around,' to do...and maybe just wait till Mac OS Sierra comes out and see if problem persist with that.

Thanks again.

Reply

Answer 3

Jul 8, 2016 7:33 AM in response to 60wpm

You should follow Jimmy's suggestions.

If this is a problem with third party software, like the Wacom driver, waiting for Sierra is not going to help.

Reply