NoHeadache

NoHeadache is a lightweight background utility for Windows that simplifies typing by automatically converting number keys (D0-D9) to their corresponding symbols (e.g., 1 to !, 2 to @) without needing to press the Shift key.

It’s perfect for users who frequently type special characters and want to streamline their workflow.

Affected Keys:

Features

• Runs in the background with no setup required

• Automatic Key Conversion: When you press any number key (D0-D9), NoHeadache automatically applies the Shift functionality, converting it to the corresponding symbol. For example:

  • Pressing 1 results in !
  • Pressing 2 results in @
  • And so on...

• Default Behavior with Shift: If the Shift key is pressed, the number keys (D0-D9) function as usual, allowing for normal input without conversion. For example:

  • Pressing 1 + shift results in 1
  • Pressing 2 + shift results in 2
  • And so on...

• Language-Sensitive Operation: Currently, the app only operates with the US keyboard layout. If another language layout is detected, the app remains inactive, ensuring it doesn’t interfere with your typing.

Installation

1. Download the latest release ZIP file from the Releases page.
2. Extract the contents of the ZIP file to your desired location.
3. Run the .exe file to start the application.

No additional installation or building of the solution is required.

Usage

1. Launch .exe.
2. The application will run in the background, listening for D0-D9 key presses.
3. Type normally, and the app will automatically convert number keys to their shifted versions.

Optional: Elevated Privileges

• To enable functionality with applications running with administrative rights, grant the .exe file admin privileges as well.

Technical Details

• Platform: Windows
• Framework: .NET 8
• Dependencies: Utilizes user32.dll and kernel32.dll from the Windows API
• User Interface: WinForms

Planned Features

• Language selection dropdown to specify which languages the app should work with
• Enable/disable checkbox for quick toggling of the app's functionality
• Configuring which keys should be affected allows for custom shift behavior. This feature is handy for users programming on keyboards with UK language layouts and similar configurations.
• Single executable file for easier distribution
• Both portable and installer editions

Technical Details

• Developed for Windows using .NET 8
• Utilizes Windows-specific DLLs: user32.dll and kernel32.dll
• Implemented as a WinForms application

Contributing

Contributions are welcome! Please feel free to submit a pull request or open an issue if you have suggestions or improvements.

License

This project is licensed under the MIT License - see the LICENSE file for details.