Preface

Since Ubuntu 8.04 (Hardy Heron) the white USB Apple Keyboard has not worked correctly. A change was added to the Ubuntu Linux kernel to make Apple MacBook keyboards gain additional functionality to their limited laptop style keyboard (Ubuntu bug [https://bugs.launchpad.net/ubuntu/+source/linux/+bug/162083 #162083]). Unfortunately this code change has some side effects for owners of the full size aluminium USB Apple Keyboard:

* Function keys have media functions as default. The "fn" key must be pressed and held to access the F-key functionality (except F5 and F6, which are inverted in this respect). (Ubuntu bug [https://bugs.launchpad.net/ubuntu/+source/linux/+bug/201711 #201711])

* Num lock key will when pressed render the keyboard seemingly unusable. The keyboard will simulate a numeric keypad on the alphabet keys. Pressing F6 twice will exit this mode. (Ubuntu bug [https://bugs.launchpad.net/ubuntu/+source/linux/+bug/201887 #201887])

* Two keys are swapped on international (non-US) keyboard with respect to the printing on the keycaps. (Ubuntu bug [https://bugs.launchpad.net/ubuntu/+source/linux/+bug/214786 #214786])

Corrections

Correcting the Function Key and Num Lock issue

* Edit the file /etc/modprobe.d/options, e.g.:

sudo gedit /etc/modprobe.d/options

* Add the line: options hid pb_fnmode=0

* Reboot

Correcting the two swapped keys for international (non-US) keyboards

* Open the 'System->Preferences->Keyboard' dialog

* Choose the 'Layouts' tab

* Press 'Layout Options...'

* Navigate to 'Miscellaneous compatibility options'

* Enable the option: Swap keycodes of two keys when Mac keyboards are misdetected by kernel.

Postscript

These issues may also apply for the Bluetooth aluminium Apple Wireless Keyboard.

CategoryHardware