ToAscii/ToUnicode in a keyboard hook destroys dead keys.

Answer 1

1. stop using ToAscii() and use ToUncode()
2. remember that ToUnicode may return you nothing on dead keys - this is why they are called dead keys.
3. Any key will have a scancode or a virtual key code but not necessary a character.

You shouldn't combine the buttons with characters - assuming that any key/button has a text representation (Unicode) is wrong.

So:

• for input text use the characters reported by Windows
• for checking button pressed (ex. games) use scancodes or virtual keys (probably virtual keys are better).
• for keyboard shortcuts use virtual key codes.

Answer 2

Call 'ToAscii' function twice for a correct processing of dead-key, like in:

int ta = ToAscii((UINT)kbHookData->vkCode, kbHookData->scanCode,
                 keyboard_state, &wCharacter, 0);
int ta = ToAscii((UINT)kbHookData->vkCode, kbHookData->scanCode,
                 keyboard_state, &wCharacter, 0);
If (ta == -1)
 ...