KLC File – What is .klc file and how to open it?

KLC File Definition

A KLC file, or Keyboard Layout Creator Source File, is a text-based file that contains instructions for creating custom keyboard layouts. It is primarily used by the Microsoft Keyboard Layout Creator (MSKLC) tool to design and modify keyboard layouts for various languages and input methods. KLC files employ a declarative syntax to define the layout’s physical and logical structure, including key positions, modifiers, dead keys, and special characters.

KLC File Structure and Usage

KLC files typically begin with a header that specifies the version of the file format used and a reference to the keyboard layout type. The subsequent sections define the layout’s physical structure, with key positions mapped to virtual key codes and scan codes. Logical modifiers and dead keys are then declared, followed by mappings between physical and virtual keys. Additionally, KLC files can include special characters, key sequences, and macros to enhance the functionality and usability of the custom keyboard layout.

Once created, KLC files can be compiled using MSKLC to generate a binary keyboard layout file (.KLF) that can be installed and used with the Windows operating system. By allowing users to create and customize their own keyboard layouts, KLC files provide flexibility and personalization options to enhance typing efficiency and accommodate specific language or input method requirements.

Opening KLC Files with Keyboard Layout Creator

A KLC (Keyboard Layout Creator Source File) file is a text file created using Microsoft’s Keyboard Layout Creator (KLC) software. KLC is a freeware utility used to create and modify custom keyboard layouts for Windows operating systems. To open a KLC file, you will need to have KLC installed on your computer. Once you have installed KLC, you can open a KLC file by clicking on the File menu and selecting Open. Locate the KLC file you want to open and click on the Open button.

After opening the KLC file, you will be presented with a graphical representation of the keyboard layout. You can use the tools in KLC to modify the layout, including changing the key assignments, creating new keys, and deleting existing ones. Once you have made your changes, you can save the layout by clicking on the File menu and selecting Save. The layout will be saved as a KLC file, which can be used with any Windows-compatible keyboard driver.

Additional Tips for Opening KLC Files

• If you do not have KLC installed, you can download it from Microsoft’s website.
• If you are having trouble opening a KLC file, make sure that the file is not corrupted or damaged.
• If you are still having trouble opening a KLC file, you can try contacting Microsoft for support.

KLC File Format

The Keyboard Layout Creator (KLC) Source File (.KLC) extension represents a source file that contains the data and instructions for creating customized keyboard layouts. Originally created by Microsoft, KLC files allow users to define the mapping of keys to specific characters and functions on a physical keyboard. The file format is designed to be both human-readable and editable, facilitating the creation and modification of custom keyboard layouts.

Within a KLC file, various sections define the layout’s structure and behavior. These sections include definitions for key positions, key modifier sequences, dead keys, and dead key sequences. Modifier sequences, such as “Shift” or “Control,” can be assigned to keys to modify their behavior when pressed in combination with other keys. Dead keys are special keys that produce no immediate output when pressed but instead modify the subsequent keypress. For example, a dead key might be used to insert an accent mark on the following character. These sections provide granular control over the behavior of keys, enabling users to tailor their keyboard layouts to meet specific preferences and language requirements.

Other Extensions