DKOSD - Caps-Lock Status

You're sure you've entered the correct password, yet you can't log on. Turns out, the Caps Lock was on; you just didn't notice the tiny LED or whatever is supposed to alert you to your stray thumb. Or maybe you're trying to type a line of text yet keep turning the Caps Lock on when you mean to turn it off? fRUSTRATING

DKOSD's zipped download includes a Vista Version that is compatible with both 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Vista and Windows 7. DKOSD requires Microsoft .NET Framework, but you can download it for free if you don't already have it. Since DKOSD is portable freeware, it doesn't run at start-up, so it's a good idea to save it to a spot you'll remember and can access quickly, like the desktop. We started DKOSD and pressed the Caps Lock key. A large text message in green letters flashed CAPS LOCK ON for a second or so--certainly long enough to notice--and a Windows notification sound played. We pressed the key again, and CAPS LOCK OFF flashed across our screen, accompanied by the Windows chime. The system tray icon indicates Caps Lock status visually, with "A" for on and "a" for off. It also let us turn the sound on and off as well as choose where the message should appear, in the center of the screen or along the bottom. Dual-monitor users can select a check box labeled Show in Screen 2. The About pop-up lists the program's Web site as well as basic instructions. However, DKOSD is obviously extremely easy to use, and your biggest challenge may simply be remembering to open it.

We'd like to see an option to keep the onscreen message open until the Caps Lock is turned on or off, which would help make DKOSD more flexible; for instance, as a training tool or in assisted-access situations. We also tried DKOSD in a Netbook with a small keyboard that makes the Caps Lock all too easy to hit and a small status LED that makes the error all too easy to miss. Thumb Reduction Surgery wasn't an option, but DKOSD was, and it worked, too.