Hello,
In Blender 2.5 preferences panel, there is an “ Auto keyframing ” check-box, which seems useless. The “ Record ” (red circle button) on the timeline does the same, and seems to be the only one to have an effect. Weither or not the “ Auto keyframing ” check box is checked does not have any effect on the status of the red circle button.
So why this option in the preferences ?
In this area, also see the thread UI misconception or feature ? (“ Manipulator ” check box)