Magic SysRq key thoughts

[JoeFootball]

As an alternate option, hold down Alt + SysRq, and type r e i s u o, waiting a second or two between keystrokes. This will (usually) shutdown your computer cleanly, and preserve your file system.

More info here and here.

Joe

My keyboard has a left Alt key and on the right is an AltGr key. Alt and SysRq are too far apart to hold together with one hand.

Yes, the key combination isn't quite convenient for one's fingers. I believe my technique is to hold my left Alt with my left thumb and pivot to key the letters on the left side of the keyboard, and do similar with the SysRq key and my right hand with the right side keys somehow. It's been a while since I've actually done this. I'm sure military weapons systems are initiated with less gymnastics.

Is it possible to use AltGr + SysRq?

I don't know, as I don't seem to have an AltGr key. Why not close all your open applications, and try it to find out?

Joe

[gm10]

Was this meant to go into another thread? You only need to hold down Alt btw.

[JoeFootball]

Was this meant to go into another thread?

Moved from another thread as was off-topic.

You only need to hold down Alt btw.

And not the SysRq key?

Joe

[gm10]

You only need to hold down Alt btw.

And not the SysRq key?

You still need to press it initially, but only Alt needs to remain held down while you type the rest.

[JoeFootball]

You still need to press it initially, but only Alt needs to remain held down while you type the rest.

Great tip! I didn't know that. I'll have to give it a try when the occasion presents itself.

Joe

[Terryphi]

Thanks both. That is easy.