[10.9] How do I assign functions to specific keys or key-combinations?

Many keypresses can be handled via a keyDown script in the frame or movie script, or by setting the keyDownScript to a string containing the relevant code. For example:

    -- keyDown script to despatch a couple of standard keyboard
    -- shortcuts to some appropriate handlers

    on keyDown
      global gKeys
      -- store the key in a variable in case the user presses another
      -- while we're processing
      set keyPressed = the key

      -- command key shortcuts
      if the commandDown then
        if keyPressed = "Q" then doQuit
        else if keyPressed = "S" then doSave
      end if
    end keyDown

For keys that have no string equivalent, eg the arrow keys, you can use the keyCode function instead of the key.

However, keyDown handlers won't always receive all key events. If there are editable text fields onstage, they will intercept key presses before they get to frame or movie script "on keyDown" handlers. Only the keyDownScript can get these events, eg:

    -- an crude keyDownScript to allow only numeric entry in
    -- an editable text field

    on startMovie
      set the keyDownScript = "filterKeys"
    end startMovie

    on filterKeys
      if the key < "0" or the key > "9" then dontPassEvent
    end filterKeys

Key presses don't necessarily go to the stage movie, either. If the message window is open, or any MIAWs are in front of the stage, the key events will go to them instead and the keyDown handlers won't be invoked.

There are also cases that can't be detected with a keypress script at all. Some key combinations will be intercepted by the system without your movie ever getting a look-in. A few of these can be overridden by using the exitlock property in projectors, but others (function keys, FKEYs, Alt-Tab etc) are simply unavailable without XObject support.