As the title suggests, I frequently used the en dash () and em dash () on my full sized keyboards. Now that I have a KBDFans KBD8x mkii, I am realizing that you can not use any of those keys cleanly. Most forums suggest third-party software and to apply a hot key. Can't I simply use QMK to add such a shortcut to my keyboard?...
You didn't mention which OS you're using. If you're using Windows, though, there's a much simpler solution than changing your firmware, or even typing extended key codes.
It's a free little program called
Clavier+. Its simple GUI lets you use the key-combinations of your choice to type special characters, or whatever text you wish. It then sits in the system tray and interprets your wishes, using a negligible amount of CPU time. (On my system, I've never seen it go past "0%".) You can also use it to run apps, open folders or websites, and do other stuff.
Other geekier, script-based programs like AutoHotKey are also availablebut for just typing special characters like dashes, "bullets", etc., Clavier+ is light 'n' easy.
(I know this is a rather old topic now, but I thought a reply was worthwhile in case anyone else looks for ideas on this too.)