DOCERR: Extended Keyboard Detection Is Documented Incorrectly (79210)



The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft Macro Assembler (MASM) 6.0
  • Microsoft Macro Assembler (MASM) 6.0a
  • Microsoft Macro Assembler (MASM) 6.0b

This article was previously published under Q79210

SYMPTOMS

When using the Microsoft Macro Assembler (MASM) version 6.0, the online help contains a documentation error when describing how to detect an extended keyboard. The entry reads:
0000:0496 1 word If bit 5 set, indicates extended keyboard installed.
In general, the "Microsoft Macro Assembler Programmer's Guide" for version 6.0 refers to the low order bit as bit 0. Therefore, the user is led to believe that if the bit corresponding to decimal value 32 is set (bit 5), then there is an extended keyboard installed.

RESOLUTION

The bit that should be checked is the one corresponding to decimal 16, or bit 4.

MORE INFORMATION

To reach this help screen:

  1. Enter QuickHelp by typing QH at the MS-DOS prompt.
  2. Choose "MASM 6.00 Language" from the Categories menu.
  3. From the System Resources box, choose "BIOS Calls."
  4. Select "16h - Keyboard Services."
  5. Choose "Keyboard Data Memory" from the "See Also" list.
  6. Scroll down to the end of this screen.
The error is contained in the last entry of the list.

Modification Type:MajorLast Reviewed:10/20/2003
Keywords:KB79210