/etc/init.d/tpd start
This allowed the interaction with some of the Thinkpad laptop special function keys. Now, how can I get this activated automatically during bootup?
Previously, KDE provided KControl where I can choose the various programs available to start or not during system boot. In Jaunty and KDE 4.2, its gone! Here I list 2 alternative ways to manage this. Both require users to have a basic knowledge of the runlevels.
METHOD 1: Back to old debian school!
Step 1. Install the sysv-rc-conf from a terminal
sudo apt-get install sysv-rc-conf
Step 2. Run the program, choose what you want activated at each Runlevel.

To select the next page press Control+n or p. Other than that just use the cursor arrows to move to different services.
METHOD 2: Use Gnome Bum. Better to also understand scripts priority that begin with "K" means to shutdown, "S" to start up.
Step 1: Install the Bum with the terminal.
sudo apt-get install bum
Step 2: Start the Bum.
From the KMenu ->Application ->System ->Bootup Manager
Since its menu driven, should be easier to figure out.
