What are ALT Codes?
In a Windows computer, holding the ALT button on the keyboard activates a list of special characters known as ALT Codes. Each ALT Code has its respective number. It should be typed from the numeric keypad while holding the ALT key in order to type that character. Also, we have explained the step by step process in the next section.
This whole concept was at first developed by IBM and worked on Microsoft Windows computers. The interpretation takes place in the BIOS. BIOS is a process that interprets the user's action and prints the corresponding symbol at the cursor's location. After that Microsoft developed their new set of codes along with the previous one. The code which starts from "0" represents the new set of codes. It's called ANSI Codes which were later changed to Windows ALT Codes. However, the latest systems use Unicode because the ANSI had some compatibility issues. After eliminating all these problems, the latest Windows machines are using the Unicode system.
How to print ALT symbol using keyboard?
Prerequisites:
- Firstly, turn On the NumLock or Numpad if it's Off.
- Make sure that the ALT key is working perfectly.
- It works only on Windows system.
Now follow the steps below.
- Press and hold the ALT key.
- Type the ALT Code on the numeric keypad.
- Release the ALT key.
- That's it. The code will be printed on your screen.
Let's try it by example to make it clear.
The ALT code for the infinity sign(∞) is 236. So, firstly, we have to press and hold the ALT key then type 236 using the numeric keypad. Lastly, release the ALT key and you'll get the infinity sign(∞) on your notepad screen.
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