PRB: Extended Keyboard Detection Is Documented Incorrectly

ID Number: Q79210

6.00 6.00a 6.00b | 6.00 6.00a 6.00b

MS-DOS | OS/2

docerr

Summary:

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.

Additional reference words: 6.00 6.00a 6.00b