unicode_stop

unicode_stop

The `unicode_stop` command, part of the `kbd` package, disables the special Unicode character input mode on the Linux console. This input mode is typically initiated by pressing Compose (or a similar key combination like Ctrl+Shift+u followed by the hexadecimal Unicode codepoint), allowing users to insert characters not directly available on the keyboard. `unicode_stop` effectively turns off this input feature. It directly manipulates the keyboard driver state and should be used with caution, as improper use might lead to unexpected behavior. Its effect is immediate and system-wide, influencing all virtual consoles. The command typically requires root privileges to modify keyboard behavior directly. After running `unicode_stop`, attempting to use the Compose key sequence to input Unicode characters will no longer work until the Unicode input mode is re-enabled (usually by `unicode_start` or similar setup process).

The command's effect is to return keyboard to the standard input method and stop the unicode input method.

Requires root privileges. Improper use can lead to keyboard malfunction or prevent Unicode input until the system is rebooted or the setting is changed back. Use with caution.

Simply run `unicode_stop` as root (e.g., `sudo unicode_stop`) to disable Unicode input mode. No arguments are needed. It is useful in scenarios where Unicode input is causing issues, or simply isn't required.
To restore it, run `unicode_start`

If the command fails, it's usually due to lack of root privileges. Ensure you're running it with `sudo` or as the root user. Also, if `kbd` package isn't installed the command won't be available.

The `unicode_stop` command is part of the `kbd` package, which has been a standard utility on Linux systems for a long time, offering control over the keyboard layout and related functionalities. The `unicode_stop` and `unicode_start` commands were developed to provide a simple way to toggle the Unicode input mode on the console, addressing the need for inserting special characters in environments where graphical interfaces weren't available or practical.

unicode_start(1), loadkeys(1), setxkbmap(1)