Keyboard (VIC-20)
The keyboard on the VIC-20 is similar to many other Commodore models such as the Commodore 64. Below are some common keyboard shortcuts and uses, which help test the functionality of the keyboard.
The Commodore logo key (also called the "CBM" or "Chickenhead" key) C will refer to the Commodore key at the bottom left of the keyboard.
By default, most keys will just type that character on screen. Below are keys they have other purposes.
The graphical shapes on the front face of the keys (under the main characters in white) are called PETSCII graphics.
Key Combo | Usage |
|---|---|
Return | Submit current line to system and move to new line |
C + Shift | Toggle upper/lower case display on screen (and left/right character on underside of keys) |
Shift + Any Key | Types character at the top of the key |
C + Any Key | Types character at bottom left of key, or above if none. |
Shift + Any Key | When in lower case, types the character in upper case When in upper case, types the character at bottom right of key |
CRSR â | Move cursor down |
Shift + CRSR â | Move cursor up |
CRSR â | Move cursor right |
Shift + CRSR â | Move cursor left |
Shift + DEL | Insert character in current position pushing characters on right |
Home | Move cursor to top left |
Shift + Home | Clear screen |
Ctrl + Num Key | Changes the text color of new entries to the color written under the 1 to 8 keys. For example Ctrl + 5 turns the text purple. |
Shift Lock | When down, keeps the Shift key pressed |
Run Stop | Stops the current execution |
Shift + Run Stop | Runs the current code (shortcut for typing LOAD + Enter |
Run Stop + Restore | Resets back to blank Ready prompt |
A good way to test the function keys is top spam press them. It should make the cursor blink as you press them.
The function keys serve no purpose in BASIC, but they can be used and read inside of code by the program to do whatever it likes. So the best way to test them in BASIC is to spam press and monitor for the cursor blink.
