KeysID

The KeysID project is a versatile and customizable Linux daemon that allows users to intercept keyboard key presses and have them execute specific programs. It was initially designed with laptop and multimedia keyboards in mind, but it can be used with all types of keyboards. The installation process is straightforward, and users can compile and install the source package by typing "make" and "make install." The program and init script will be saved in /usr/sbin and /etc/init.d/, respectively.

Before running the KeysID program, users should read the next section. After installation, users must configure the program by running the keyscfg configuration program. The keyscfg program has several options, including -n to specify the number of keys to intercept, -f to set the output configuration file, and -d to select the input device. Users should avoid editing the first line, which specifies the device the program reads from. The remaining lines of the configuration file should follow the format of "key user command." The command will be executed as "su - user -c 'command,' " so users should be mindful of escaping characters.

Once the configuration is complete, users can start the daemon (keysid) and specify a configuration file if necessary. The package also provides an init script that can be used to run the daemon at boot time. Users can specify a non-default file by entering the file name into /etc/keysid/args.

Like all software, KeysID has a few known bugs. Users should wait a couple of milliseconds after starting both the daemon and the configurator program before pressing any keys to ensure proper input reception. The latest release of KeysID includes package improvements, minor fixes, and a Debian package.

Overall, KeysID is an excellent program for users looking to customize their keyboard use and execute specific programs with ease. Its customization options and ease of use make it a valuable addition to any Linux user's toolkit.