Abstract: A system for varying the function of a keyboard using a plurality of status keys to select a function. The status keys form a binary which are decoded in a first word decoder forming a single word which are fed to a plurality of binary decoders one each associated with one of the information keys on the keyboard for controlling the readout thereof. The information keys are also switches that activate a word encoder for producing a final output. A comparator gate can be interposed between the word encoder and the selection switches of the information keys, the gate being enabled by the first word decoder. The decoded word originating from the status keys also feed a segment decoder which activates segments surrounding selected information key elements.