_kbhit

Checks the console for keyboard input.

Important

This API cannot be used in applications that execute in the Windows Runtime. For more information, see CRT functions not supported in Universal Windows Platform apps.

Syntax


int _kbhit( void );

Return value

_kbhit returns a nonzero value if a key has been pressed. Otherwise, it returns 0.

Remarks

The _kbhit function checks the console for a recent keystroke. If the function returns a nonzero value, a keystroke is waiting in the buffer. The program can then call _getch or _getche to get the keystroke.

By default, this function's global state is scoped to the application. To change this behavior, see Global state in the CRT.

Requirements

Routine Required header
_kbhit <conio.h>

For more compatibility information, see Compatibility.

Libraries

All versions of the C run-time libraries.

Example

// crt_kbhit.c
// compile with: /c
/* This program loops until the user
* presses a key. If _kbhit returns nonzero, a
* keystroke is waiting in the buffer. The program
* can call _getch or _getche to get the keystroke.
*/

#include <conio.h>
#include <stdio.h>

int main( void )
{
   /* Display message until key is pressed. */
   while( !_kbhit() )
      _cputs( "Hit me!! " );

   /* Use _getch to throw key away. */
   printf( "\nKey struck was '%c'\n", _getch() );
}

Sample output

Hit me!! Hit me!! Hit me!! Hit me!! Hit me!! Hit me!! Hit me!!
Key struck was 'q'

See also

Console and port I/O