Tuesday, May 21, 2024

How to Creat a custom keyboard layout for Senthamizh fonts?

 

Creating a custom keyboard layout for Senthamizh fonts involves a few steps. Here’s a guide to help you set up a custom layout on your computer:


Step-by-Step Guide


1. Download and Install the Keyman Software

    - Keyman is a popular tool for creating and using custom keyboard layouts.
    - Download Keyman from [Keyman's official website](https://keyman.com/downloads/).

2. Download the Senthamizh Keyboard Layout:

    - If a Senthamizh keyboard layout already exists, you can find it in the Keyman keyboard repository or on Tamil language support sites.
    - If it’s not available, you can create your own custom layout (details below).

3. Install the Senthamizh Keyboard Layout:

    - Once you have the layout file (usually with a `.kmp` extension), open Keyman and use the “Add Keyboard” option to install it.

4. Creating a Custom Keyboard Layout (if needed):

    - Keyman Developer: Download and install Keyman Developer from the Keyman website.
    - Create a New Keyboard:
        1. Open Keyman Developer and create a new keyboard project.
        2. Define the mappings for the Senthamizh font by assigning Tamil characters to the keys. This can be done by editing the `.kmn` file.
        3. Save and compile the project to generate the `.kmp` file.
    - Test the Layout: Before finalizing, ensure to test the layout thoroughly to confirm all characters are correctly mapped.

5. Activate the Senthamizh Keyboard Layout:

    - After installing the keyboard, switch to it using the language bar on your computer (usually found in the taskbar or by using a keyboard shortcut like Alt + Shift).

Example of Creating a Keyboard Layout in Keyman Developer


1. Open Keyman Developer and start a new keyboard project.
2. Set the Keyboard Properties:
    - Define the language (Tamil) and font (Senthamizh) properties.
3. Define Key Mappings:
    - For each key, map it to the corresponding Senthamizh character.
    - Example mapping (pseudo-code):
      ```kmn
      + 'a' > 'அ'
      + 'k' > 'க்'
      + 's' > 'ஸ்'
      ```
4. Compile the Keyboard:
    - Save the mappings and compile the project to create the `.kmp` file.

5. Install the Keyboard:
    - Open Keyman, go to “Configuration,” and add the newly created keyboard.

Using the Keyboard


- Once the keyboard is installed and activated, you can start typing in Senthamizh using the custom layout.
- Refer to the specific key mappings you have defined to know which key produces which character.

Resources for Reference


- Keyman Documentation: Detailed guides on creating and managing keyboard layouts.
- Tamil Language Support Communities: Forums and groups where you can get help and share your custom layouts.

By following these steps, you should be able to set up and use a keyboard layout that works specifically with the Senthamizh font. If you encounter any specific issues or need further customization, Keyman’s community forums and support resources can be very helpful.




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