HP Envy 15-1050 User Manual
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HP Envy 15-1050 User Manual

Hp envy 15-1050: user guide
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Summary of Contents for HP Envy 15-1050

  • Page 1 HP Envy 15 User Guide...
  • Page 2 The information contained herein is subject to change without notice. The only warranties for HP products and services are set forth in the express warranty statements accompanying such products and services. Nothing herein should be construed as constituting an additional warranty.
  • Page 3 Safety warning notice WARNING! To reduce the possibility of heat-related injuries or of overheating the computer, do not place the computer directly on your lap or obstruct the computer air vents. Use the computer only on a hard, flat surface. Do not allow another hard surface, such as an adjoining optional printer, or a soft surface, such as pillows or rugs or clothing, to block airflow.
  • Page 4 Safety warning notice...

  • Page 5: Table Of Contents

    Table of contents 1 Notebook tour Identifying hardware ... 1 Components ... 2 Top components ... 2 Front components ... 6 Right-side components ... 6 Left-side components ... 7 Bottom components ... 8 Display components ... 9 Wireless antennas ... 9 Additional hardware components ...
  • Page 6 Multimedia features ... 30 Adjusting the volume ... 30 Using the media activity keys ... 31 Multimedia software ... 32 Using HP MediaSmart software ... 32 Using multimedia software ... 32 Installing multimedia software from a disc ... 33 Audio ... 34 Connecting external audio devices ...
  • Page 7 Identifying installed drives ... 59 Handling drives ... 59 Improving hard drive performance ... 60 Using HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection (select models only) ... 61 Using external drives ... 62 Using the external optical drive (select models only) ... 63 Sharing optical drives ...
  • Page 8 Using an eSATA device ... 67 Using Digital Media Slot cards ... 68 8 Memory modules 9 Security Protecting the computer ... 75 Using passwords ... 76 Setting passwords in Windows ... 76 Setting passwords in Setup Utility ... 77 Using antivirus software ...
  • Page 9 Using system restore points ... 94 Performing a recovery ... 95 Recovering from the recovery discs ... 95 Recovering from the dedicated recovery partition (select models only) ... 95 Appendix C RAID 0 (select models only) Disabling RAID 0 ... 97 Index ...

  • Page 11: Notebook Tour

    Notebook tour Identifying hardware To see a list of hardware installed in the computer: Select Start > Control Panel > System and Security. Then in the System area, click Device ▲ Manager. You can also add hardware or modify device configurations using Device Manager. NOTE: Windows®...

  • Page 12: Components

    Components Top components TouchPad Component TouchPad* *This table describes factory settings. To view and change pointing device preferences, select Start > Devices and Printers. Then, right-click the device representing your computer, and select Mouse settings. TouchPad buttons Chapter 1 Notebook tour Description Moves the pointer and selects or activates items on the screen.

  • Page 13: Lights

    Component TouchPad on/off button Left TouchPad button* Right TouchPad button* *This table describes factory settings. To view and change pointing device preferences, select Start > Devices and Printers. Then, right-click the device representing your computer, and select Mouse settings. Lights Component TouchPad light Caps lock light...

  • Page 14: Button

    Button Component Power button Chapter 1 Notebook tour Description ● When the computer is off, press the button to turn on the computer. ● When the computer is on, press the button briefly to initiate Sleep. ● When the computer is in the Sleep state, press the button briefly to exit Sleep.

  • Page 15: Keys

    Internet or network services and your Web browser home page, you can press the your home page and the Internet. Opens HP MediaSmart. HP MediaSmart turns your computer into a mobile entertainment center. You can enjoy music and movies and manage and edit your photo collections.

  • Page 16: Front Components

    Component (11) Front components Component Vents (2) Digital Media Slot Right-side components Component Speaker Security cable slot Chapter 1 Notebook tour Description NOTE: The first time you press the mail prompted to set up your e-mail account. After you have set up your e-mail, you can press the mail key to quickly access your e-mail.

  • Page 17: Left-Side Components

    Component Audio-out (headphone) jack/Audio-in (microphone) jack eSATA/USB port USB ports (2) HDMI port RJ-45 (network) jack Vent Left-side components Component Battery light Power connector Vent Description Produces sound when connected to optional powered stereo speakers, headphones, earbuds, a headset, or television audio.

  • Page 18: Bottom Components

    Chapter 1 Notebook tour Description ● Blinking white: The hard drive is being accessed. ● Amber (select models only): HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection has temporarily parked the hard drive. Produces sound. Description Enable airflow to cool internal components. NOTE: The computer fan starts up automatically to cool internal components and prevent overheating.

  • Page 19: Display Components

    Display components Component Ambient light sensor Internal microphones (2) Webcam light Webcam infrared (IR) light Webcam Internal display switch Wireless antennas The computer has 2 antennas that send and receive signals from one or more wireless devices. These antennas are not visible from the outside of the computer. Description Adjusts the screen brightness levels automatically, based on surrounding lighting conditions.

  • Page 20: Additional Hardware Components

    NOTE: For optimal transmission, keep the areas immediately around the antennas free from obstructions. To see wireless regulatory notices, refer to the section of the Regulatory, Safety and Environmental Notices that applies to your country or region. These notices are located in Help and Support. Additional hardware components Component Power cord*...

  • Page 21: Labels

    Labels The labels affixed to the computer provide information you may need when you troubleshoot system problems or travel internationally with the computer. ● Service tag—Provides important information including the following: The service tag is located inside the battery bay. ◦...

  • Page 22: Using Instant On Software (Select Models Only)

    Web mail—View and send e-mail. NOTE: For information on using IOS, refer to the HP Envy 15 User Manual. This guide is located on the SD card that came with your computer. Chapter 2 Using Instant On Software (select models only)

  • Page 23: Wireless And Local Area Network

    Wireless and local area network Using wireless devices Wireless technology transfers data across radio waves instead of wires. Your computer may be equipped with one or more of the following wireless devices: ● Wireless local area network (WLAN) device—Connects the computer to wireless local area networks (commonly referred to as Wi-Fi networks, wireless LANs, or WLANs) in corporate offices, your home, and public places such as airports, restaurants, coffee shops, hotels, and universities.

  • Page 24: Using The Wireless Controls

    Wireless (disconnected) Wired network (connected) Wired network (disabled/disconnected) Network (connected) Network (disabled/disconnected) Network (disconnected) Using the wireless controls You can control the wireless devices in your computer using these features: ● wireless ● Wireless Assistant software ● Operating system controls Using the wireless key The computer has a wireless...

  • Page 25: Using Wireless Assistant Software

    Click the wireless icon in the Wireless Assistant tile, which is located in the bottom row of Windows® Mobility Center. Click Properties. Select the check box next to HP Wireless Assistant icon in notification area. Click Apply. Click Close. For more information, refer to the Wireless Assistant software Help: Open Wireless Assistant by clicking the wireless icon in Windows Mobility Center.

  • Page 26: Using A Wlan

    Using a WLAN With a WLAN device, you can access a wireless local area network (WLAN), which is composed of other computers and accessories that are linked by a wireless router or a wireless access point. NOTE: The terms wireless router and wireless access point are often used interchangeably. ●...

  • Page 27: Connecting To A Wlan

    WLANs in public areas, or “hotspots,” like coffee shops and airports may not provide any security. New technologies are being developed by wireless manufacturers and hotspot service providers that make the public environment more secure and anonymous. If you are concerned about the security of your computer in a hotspot, limit your network activities to noncritical e-mail and basic Internet surfing.

  • Page 28: Roaming To Another Network

    NOTE: If you do not see the network you want to connect to, click Open Network and Sharing Center, and then click Set up a new connection or network. A list of options is displayed. You can choose to manually search for and connect to a network or to create a new network connection. After the connection is made, place the mouse pointer over the network icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar, to verify the name and status of the connection.

  • Page 29: Using Bluetooth Wireless Devices

    Bluetooth and Internet Connection Sharing (ICS) HP does not recommend setting up one computer with Bluetooth as a host and using it as a gateway through which other computers may connect to the Internet. When two or more computers are connected using Bluetooth, and Internet Connection Sharing (ICS) is enabled on one of the computers, the other computers may not be able to connect to the Internet using the Bluetooth network.

  • Page 30: Troubleshooting Wireless Connection Problems

    A Windows “Device not Found” error message may also be displayed. The driver must be reinstalled. Get the latest version of the WLAN device software and drivers for your computer from the HP Web site at http://www.hp.com: Open your Internet browser and go to http://www.hp.com/support.

  • Page 31: Wlan Connection Is Very Weak

    Some networks change the SSID or network keys used in their routers or access points on a regular basis to improve security. You must change the corresponding code in your computer accordingly. If you are provided with new wireless network keys and SSID for a network, and if you have previously connected to that network, follow these steps to connect to the network: Select Start >...

  • Page 32: Connecting To A Local Area Network (Lan)

    Connecting to a local area network (LAN) Connecting to a local area network (LAN) requires an 8-pin, RJ-45 network cable (purchased separately). If the network cable contains noise suppression circuitry (1), which prevents interference from TV and radio reception, orient the circuitry end of the cable (2) toward the computer. To connect to a LAN: Plug the network cable into the network jack (1) on the computer.

  • Page 33: Pointing Devices And Keyboard

    Pointing devices and keyboard Using pointing devices NOTE: In addition to the TouchPad, you can also connect an external USB mouse to one of the USB ports on the computer. Setting pointing device preferences Use Mouse Properties in Windows® to customize settings for pointing devices, such as button configuration, click speed, and pointer options.

  • Page 34: Scrolling

    Scrolling Scrolling is useful for moving up or down on a page or image. To scroll, place two fingers slightly apart on the TouchPad and drag them across the TouchPad in an up, down, left, or right motion. NOTE: Scrolling speed is controlled by finger speed. Pinching Pinching allows you to zoom in or out on items such as PDFs, images, and photos.
  • Page 35 Using pointing devices...

  • Page 36: Using The Action Keys

    Using the action keys Action keys are customized actions that are assigned to specific keys on the keyboard. To use an action key, press and hold this key to activate the assigned function. NOTE: Depending on the application you are using, pressing a specific shortcut menu within that application.
  • Page 37 Icon Description Mutes or restores speaker sound. Initiates the QuickLock security feature. QuickLock protects your information by displaying the operating system Log On window. While the Log On window is displayed, the computer cannot be accessed until a Windows user password or a Windows administrator password is entered.

  • Page 38: Using The Hotkeys

    Using the hotkeys Hotkeys are combinations of the Function Display system information. Control the bass settings. To use a hotkey command, follow either of these steps: ● Briefly press the – or – ● Press and hold down the release both keys at the same time. Chapter 4 Pointing devices and keyboard key (1) and either the Hotkey...

  • Page 39: Cleaning The Touchpad And Keyboard

    Cleaning the TouchPad and keyboard Dirt and grease on the TouchPad can cause the pointer to jump around on the screen. To avoid this, clean the TouchPad with a damp cloth, and wash your hands frequently when using the computer. WARNING! To reduce the risk of electric shock or damage to internal components, do not use a vacuum cleaner attachment to clean the keyboard.

  • Page 40: Multimedia

    Multimedia Multimedia features Your computer includes multimedia features that allow you to listen to music, watch movies, and view pictures. Your computer may include the following multimedia components: ● Integrated speakers for listening to music ● Integrated microphones for recording your own audio ●...

  • Page 41: Using The Media Activity Keys

    Using the media activity keys The media activity keys control the play of an audio CD or a DVD or BD that is inserted into an external optical drive (purchased separately). ● When an audio CD or a DVD is not playing, press the ●...

  • Page 42: Multimedia Software

    Creating, editing, and burning a video or movie to a DVD or video CD Using HP MediaSmart software HP MediaSmart turns your computer into a mobile entertainment center. With MediaSmart, you can enjoy music and DVD and BD movies. You can also manage and edit your photo collections.

  • Page 43: Installing Multimedia Software From A Disc

    Installing multimedia software from a disc Although your computer does not have an integrated optical drive, you can easily access software, as well as install applications and access data in either of the following ways: ● Connect an external optical drive (purchased separately) to one of the USB ports on your computer.

  • Page 44: Audio

    Audio Your computer enables you to use a variety of audio features: ● Play music using your computer speakers and/or connected external speakers ● Control the bass with the Beats Audio feature (fn+b) ● Record sound using the internal microphone or connect an external microphone ●...

  • Page 45: Using Beats Audio

    To check the record functions of the computer, follow these steps: Select Start > All Programs > Accessories > Sound Recorder. Click Start Recording and speak into the microphone. Save the file to your desktop. Open Windows Media Player or MediaSmart and play back the sound. NOTE: For best results when recording, speak directly into the microphone and record sound in a setting free of background noise.

  • Page 46: Video

    Watch TV over the Internet Connecting an external monitor or projector To connect an external display such as a monitor or projector to the computer, connect the HP HDMI to VGA Display Adapter (select models only) to the HDMI port on the computer.

  • Page 47: Connecting An Hdmi Device

    To connect an external monitor or projector using the HDMI to VGA Display Adapter, follow these steps: Connect the HDMI to VGA Display Adapter to the HDMI port on the computer. Connect an external monitor or projector to the other end of the adapter. NOTE: If a properly connected external display device does not display an image, press the screen image...

  • Page 48: Configuring Audio For Hdmi

    To connect a video or audio device to the HDMI port: Connect one end of the HDMI cable to the HDMI port on the computer. Connect the other end of the cable to the video device, according to the device manufacturer’s instructions.

  • Page 49: Webcam

    You can preview the photo or video recording, and save it on your computer hard drive. To use the webcam, select Start > All Programs > HP > HP MediaSmart > HP MediaSmart Webcam.
  • Page 50 ● Gamma—Controls the contrast affecting the mid-level grays or midtones of an image. Adjusting the gamma of an image allows you to change the brightness values of the middle range of gray tones without dramatically altering the shadows and highlights. A lower gamma setting makes grays look black, and makes dark colors even darker.

  • Page 51: Using The Ambient Light Sensor

    The webcam IR light is enabled by default. To disable or reenable the webcam IR light: Select Start > All Programs > HP > HP MediaSmart > HP MediaSmart Webcam. In HP MediaSmart Webcam, select Settings > Display > Advanced Settings, and then click the Camera Control tab.
  • Page 52 Select the Low Light Compensation check box, and then click Apply. Click OK. NOTE: The webcam IR light is also available on other webcam programs. Refer to the software Help for additional information. Chapter 5 Multimedia...

  • Page 53: Power Management

    Power management Setting power devices Using power-saving states The computer has two power-saving states enabled at the factory: Sleep and Hibernation. When Sleep is initiated, the power light blinks and the screen clears. Your work is saved to memory, letting you exit Sleep faster than exiting Hibernation. If the computer is in the Sleep state for an extended period or if the battery reaches a critical battery level while in the Sleep state, the computer initiates Hibernation.

  • Page 54: Initiating And Exiting Hibernation

    When the computer exits Sleep, the power light turns on and your work returns to the screen where you stopped working. NOTE: If you have set a password to be required on wakeup, you must enter your Windows password before your work will return to the screen. Initiating and exiting Hibernation The system is set at the factory to initiate Hibernation after 1,080 minutes (18 hours) of inactivity when running on battery power, 1,080 minutes (18 hours) of inactivity when running on external power, or...

  • Page 55: Using Power Plans

    Different battery meter icons indicate whether the computer is running on battery or external power. The icon also displays a message if the battery has reached a low battery level, critical battery level, or reserve battery level. To hide or display the battery meter icon: Right-click the Show hidden icons icon (the arrow at the left side of the notification area).

  • Page 56: Setting Password Protection On Wakeup

    Setting password protection on wakeup To set the computer to prompt for a password when the computer exits Sleep or Hibernation, follow these steps: Select Start > Control Panel > System and Security > Power Options. In the left pane, click Require a password on wakeup. Click Change Settings that are currently unavailable.

  • Page 57: Using External Ac Power

    To reduce potential safety issues, use only the AC adapter provided with the computer, a replacement AC adapter provided by HP, or a compatible AC adapter purchased from HP. Connect the computer to external AC power under any of the following conditions: ●...

  • Page 58: Testing An Ac Adapter

    Plug the other end of the power cord into an AC outlet (3). Testing an AC adapter Test the AC adapter if the computer exhibits any of the following symptoms when it is connected to AC power: ● The computer will not turn on. ●...

  • Page 59: Using Battery Power

    WARNING! To reduce potential safety issues, use only the battery provided with the computer, a replacement battery provided by HP, or a compatible battery purchased from HP. Computer battery life varies, depending on power management settings, programs running on the computer, display brightness, external devices connected to the computer, and other factors.

  • Page 60: Displaying The Remaining Battery Charge

    To run Battery Check: Connect the AC adapter to the computer. NOTE: The computer must be connected to external power for Battery Check to function properly. Select Start > Help and Support > Troubleshoot > Power, Thermal and Mechanical. Click the Power tab, and then click Battery Check. Battery Check examines the battery and its cells to see if they are functioning properly, and then reports the results of the examination.

  • Page 61: Charging A Battery

    Align the tabs on the battery with the notches on the outer edge of the battery bay (1) and lower the battery into the battery bay until it is seated (2). Slide the battery lock (3) to lock the battery into place. Charging a battery WARNING! Do not charge the computer battery while you are onboard aircraft.

  • Page 62: Maximizing Battery Discharge Time

    ● Amber: The battery is charging. ● White: The computer is connected to external power and the battery is fully charged. Maximizing battery discharge time Battery discharge time varies depending on the features you use while on battery power. Maximum discharge time gradually shortens, as the battery storage capacity naturally degrades.

  • Page 63: Resolving A Low Battery Level

    ● AC adapter ● Optional power adapter purchased as an accessory from HP Resolving a low battery level when a charged battery is available Turn off the computer or initiate Hibernation. Remove the discharged battery, and then insert a charged battery.

  • Page 64: Identifying The Accessory Battery Components

    Identifying the accessory battery components Component Battery fuel gauge Battery charge lights Battery release latches Inserting or removing an accessory battery CAUTION: Removing a battery that is the sole power source can cause loss of information. To prevent loss of information, save your work before removing the battery. To insert the accessory battery: NOTE: When you install the accessory for the first time, be sure to remove the protective cover on the...
  • Page 65 NOTE: It is not necessary to turn off the computer before inserting or removing the accessory battery. Close the display and turn the computer upside down on a flat surface, with the battery bay toward you. Align the accessory battery with the bottom of the computer, with the battery fuel gauge toward you.

  • Page 66: Battery Charging And Discharging Sequence

    Lift the accessory battery from the bottom of the computer (2). Battery charging and discharging sequence Battery charging and discharging sequence varies when both the primary battery and optional accessory battery are installed. ● The computer supports Fast Charge Mode (enabled at the factory). When both batteries are charging, the primary battery will charge to 90 percent before the accessory battery begins charging.

  • Page 67: Storing A Battery

    Battery Check notifies you to replace the battery when an internal cell is not charging properly, or when the battery storage capacity has reached a “weak” condition. A message refers you to the HP Web site for more information about ordering a replacement battery. If the battery is possibly covered by an HP warranty, instructions include a warranty ID.

  • Page 68: Shutting Down The Computer

    Shutting down the computer CAUTION: Unsaved information will be lost when the computer is shut down. The Shut down command closes all open programs, including the operating system, and then turns off the display and computer. Shut down the computer under any of the following conditions: ●...

  • Page 69: Drives And External Devices

    Drives and external devices Drives Identifying installed drives Your computer includes a hard drive (with a rotating disc) or a solid-state drive (SSD) with solid-state memory. Because it has no moving parts, an SSD does not generate as much heat as a hard drive. Select computer models can support up to two drives.

  • Page 70: Improving Hard Drive Performance

    CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to the computer, damage to a drive, or loss of information, observe these precautions: Before you move a computer that is connected to an external hard drive, initiate Sleep and allow the screen to clear, or properly disconnect the external hard drive. Handle a drive carefully;...

  • Page 71: Using Hp Protectsmart Hard Drive Protection (Select Models Only)

    ● You move the computer with the display closed while the computer is running on battery power. A short time after the end of one of these events, HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection returns the hard drive to normal operation.

  • Page 72: Using Hp Protectsmart Hard Drive Protection Software

    Before you move the computer, HP recommends that you either shut it down or initiate Sleep or Hibernation. Using HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection software The HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection software enables you to perform the following tasks: ●...

  • Page 73: Using The External Optical Drive (Select Models Only)

    CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to the equipment when connecting a powered drive, be sure that the drive is turned off and the AC power cord is unplugged. Connect the drive to the computer. If you are connecting a powered drive, plug the device power cord into a grounded AC outlet. Turn on the drive.

  • Page 74: Sharing Optical Drives

    Remove the disc (3) from the tray by gently pressing down on the spindle while lifting the outer edges of the disc. Hold the disc by the edges and avoid touching the flat surfaces. NOTE: If the tray is not fully accessible, tilt the disc carefully as you remove it. Close the disc tray and place the disc in a protective case.
  • Page 75 Click Apply, and then click OK. To view the shared optical drive on your computer, select Start > Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center > View computers and devices. Drives...

  • Page 76: External Devices

    External devices Using a USB device A USB port connects an optional external device, such as a USB keyboard, mouse, drive, printer, scanner, or hub, to the computer. Some USB devices may require additional support software, which is usually included with the device. For more information about device-specific software, refer to the manufacturer's instructions.

  • Page 77: Using An Esata Device

    To remove a USB device: Click the Safely Remove Hardware and Eject Media icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar. NOTE: To display the Safely Remove Hardware and Eject Media icon, click the Show hidden icons icon (the arrow at the left of the notification area).

  • Page 78: Using Digital Media Slot Cards

    CAUTION: To prevent damage to an eSATA connector, do not pull on the cable to remove the eSATA device. Click the Safely Remove Hardware and Eject Media icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar. NOTE: To display the Safely Remove Hardware and Eject Media icon, click the Show hidden icons icon (the arrow at the left of the notification area).

  • Page 79: Removing A Digital Card

    Removing a digital card CAUTION: To prevent loss of data or an unresponsive system, use the following procedure to safely remove the digital card. Save your information and close all programs associated with the digital card. NOTE: To stop a data transfer, click Cancel in the operating system Copying window. To remove a digital card: Click the Safely Remove Hardware and Eject Media icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar.

  • Page 80: Memory Modules

    Memory modules The computer has two memory module slots that you can access. The memory module slots are located on the bottom of the computer. The memory capacity of the computer can be upgraded by adding a memory module or replacing the existing memory module in one of the memory module slots. WARNING! To reduce the risk of electric shock and damage to the equipment, unplug the power cord and remove all batteries before installing a memory module.
  • Page 81 Loosen the memory module compartment cover screws (1) and lift the memory module compartment cover (2) away from the computer. Remove a memory module in the top memory module slot: Pull away the retention clips (1) on each side of the memory module. CAUTION: To prevent damage to the memory module, hold the memory module by the edges only.
  • Page 82 Grasp the edge of the memory module (2), and gently rotate the module up and pull it out of the memory module slot. To protect the memory module after removal, place it in an electrostatic-safe container. Remove a memory module in the bottom memory module slot: Pull away the retention clips (1) on each side of the memory module.
  • Page 83 Grasp the edge of the memory module (2), and gently pull the module out of the memory module slot. To protect the memory module after removal, place it in an electrostatic-safe container. Insert a memory module in the bottom memory module slot: Align the notched edge (1) of the memory module with the tab in the bottom memory module slot.
  • Page 84 Insert the memory module into the top memory module slot and rotate the module downward (2) until it is seated and the retention clips (3) snap into place. CAUTION: edges only. Do not touch the components on the memory module. Align the tabs (1) on the memory module compartment cover with the notches on the computer.

  • Page 85: Security

    Security Protecting the computer Standard security features provided by the Windows® operating system and the non-Windows Setup Utility can protect your personal settings and data from a variety of risks. Follow the procedures in this guide to use the following features: ●...

  • Page 86: Using Passwords

    Using passwords A password is a group of characters that you choose to secure your computer information. Several types of passwords can be set, depending on how you want to control access to your information. Passwords can be set in Windows or in the non-Windows Setup Utility preinstalled on the computer. CAUTION: To prevent being locked out of the computer, record each password you set.

  • Page 87: Setting Passwords In Setup Utility

    Setting passwords in Setup Utility Password Administrator password* Power-on password* *For details about each of these passwords, refer to the following topics. Administrator password Your administrator password protects the configuration settings and system identification information in Setup Utility. After this password is set, you must enter it each time you access Setup Utility. Your administrator password is not interchangeable with an administrator password set in Windows, nor is it displayed as it is set, entered, changed, or deleted.

  • Page 88: Managing An Administrator Password

    Managing an administrator password To set, change, or delete this password, follow these steps: Open Setup Utility by turning on or restarting the computer. While the “Press the ESC key for Startup Menu” message is displayed in the lower-left corner of the screen, press f10. –...

  • Page 89: Managing A Power-On Password

    Managing a power-on password To set, change, or delete this password, follow these steps: Open Setup Utility by turning on or restarting the computer. While the “Press the ESC key for Startup Menu” message is displayed in the lower-left corner of the screen, press f10. –...

  • Page 90: Using Antivirus Software

    Using antivirus software When you use the computer to access e-mail, a network, or the Internet, you expose it to computer viruses. Computer viruses can disable the operating system, programs, or utilities, or cause them to function abnormally. Antivirus software can detect most viruses, destroy them, and in most cases, repair any damage they have caused.

  • Page 91: Using Firewall Software

    Using firewall software When you use the computer for e-mail, network, or Internet access, unauthorized persons may be able to gain access to the computer, your personal files, and information about you. Use the firewall software preinstalled on the computer to protect your privacy. Firewall features include logging and reporting of network activity, and automatic monitoring of all incoming and outgoing traffic.

  • Page 92: Installing Critical Security Updates

    Installing critical security updates CAUTION: Microsoft sends alerts regarding critical updates. To protect the computer from security breaches and computer viruses, install all critical updates from Microsoft as soon as you receive an alert. Updates to the operating system and other software may have become available after the computer was shipped.

  • Page 93: Installing An Optional Security Cable

    Installing an optional security cable NOTE: A security cable is designed to act as a deterrent, but it may not prevent the computer from being mishandled or stolen. Loop the security cable around a secured object. Insert the key (1) into the cable lock (2). Insert the cable lock into the security cable slot on the computer (3), and then lock the cable lock with the key.

  • Page 94: Appendix A Setup Utility (Bios)

    Setup Utility (BIOS) Starting Setup Utility Setup Utility is a ROM-based information and customization utility that can be used even when your Windows® operating system is not working. The utility reports information about the computer and provides settings for startup, security, and other preferences.

  • Page 95: Using Setup Utility

    Using Setup Utility Changing the language of Setup Utility The following procedure explains how to change the language of Setup Utility. If Setup Utility is not already running, begin at step 1. If Setup Utility is already running, begin at step 2. Open Setup Utility by turning on or restarting the computer.

  • Page 96: Displaying System Information

    Displaying system information The following procedure explains how to display system information in Setup Utility. If Setup Utility is not open, begin at step 1. If Setup Utility is open, begin at step 2. Open Setup Utility by turning on or restarting the computer. While the “Press the ESC key for Startup Menu”...

  • Page 97: Setup Utility Menus

    After either choice, the computer restarts in Windows. Setup Utility menus The menu tables in this section provide an overview of Setup Utility options. NOTE: Some of the Setup Utility menu items listed in this chapter may not be supported by your computer.

  • Page 98: Diagnostics Menu

    Select Diagnostics menu Select Primary Hard Disk Self Test Secondary Hard Disk Self Test (select models only) Memory Test Appendix A Setup Utility (BIOS) To do this ● Network Adapter Boot―Enable/disable boot from external Network Adapter. ● Boot Order―Set the boot order for: ◦...

  • Page 99: Updating The Bios

    Updated versions of the BIOS may be available on the HP Web site. Most BIOS updates on the HP Web site are packaged in compressed files called SoftPaqs. Some download packages contain a file named Readme.txt, which contains information regarding installing and troubleshooting the file.
  • Page 100 To download a BIOS update: Access the page on the HP Web site that provides software for your computer: Select Start > Help and Support > Maintain. Follow the instructions on the screen to identify your computer and access the BIOS update you want to download.

  • Page 101: Appendix B Backup And Recovery

    Backup and recovery Recovery after a system failure is as complete as your most current backup. HP recommends that you create recovery discs immediately after software setup. As you add new software and data files, you should continue to back up your system on a regular basis to maintain a reasonably current backup.

  • Page 102: Creating Recovery Discs

    Creating recovery discs HP recommends that you create recovery discs to be sure that you can restore your system to its original factory state if you experience serious system failure or instability. Create these discs after setting up the computer for the first time.

  • Page 103: Backing Up Your Information

    Backing up your information As you add new software and data files, you should back up your system on a regular basis to maintain a reasonably current backup. Back up your system at the following times: ● At regularly scheduled times NOTE: Set reminders to back up your information periodically.

  • Page 104: Using System Restore Points

    NOTE: The backup process may take over an hour, depending on file size and the speed of the computer. Select Start > All Programs > Maintenance > Backup and Restore. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up and create a backup. NOTE: Windows®...

  • Page 105: Performing A Recovery

    NOTE: You can recover only files that you have previously backed up. HP recommends that you use HP Recovery Manager to create a set of recovery discs (entire drive backup) as soon as you set up your computer. Recovery Manager software allows you to repair or restore the system if you experience system failure or instability.

  • Page 106: Appendix C Raid 0 (Select Models Only)

    RAID 0 (select models only) Select computer models with two solid-state drives (SSDs) ship in a RAID 0 configuration. RAID benefits users who frequently work with large files and want to improve the storage performance of their computer. With RAID 0, data is distributed across both drives. This allows data, especially large files, to be read faster because data is read simultaneously from both drives.

  • Page 107: Disabling Raid 0

    Disabling RAID 0 CAUTION: Disabling RAID 0 completely erases hard drive contents and reformats the hard drive. All files you have created and any software installed on the computer are permanently removed. Before you disable RAID 0, be sure to back up your information and create a set of recovery discs. Refer to Backup and recovery on page 91 To disable RAID 0: Back up all personal files.

  • Page 108: Index

    Index AC adapter identifying 10 testing 48 AC power, connecting 47 accessory battery components 54 inserting 54 removing 54 accessory battery charge lights 54 accessory battery connector, identifying 8 accessory battery fuel gauge 54 action key mode 87 action keys adjusting volume 26 audio CD, DVD, or BD controls 26...
  • Page 109 52 initiating 44 high-definition devices, connecting 37 hotkeys description 28 display system information 28 using 28 HP HDMI to VGA Display Adapter using 36 HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection 61 hubs 66 icons network 13, 20 wireless 13...
  • Page 110 managing an administrator password 78 media activity keys 31 media controls, keys 26 Media Launch key, identifying 5 MediaSmart starting 32 using 32 memory module inserting 73 removing 71 memory module compartment, identifying 8 memory test 88 microphone (audio-in) jack, identifying 7 Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity label 11...
  • Page 111 system information, displaying 86, 87 system recovery 95 system restore points 91, 94 temperature 57 TouchPad buttons 3 cleaning 29 gestures 23 identifying 2 using 23 TouchPad gestures pinching 24 rotating 24 scrolling 24 zooming 24 TouchPad light, identifying 3 TouchPad on/off button 3 traveling with the computer 57 turning off the computer 58...

This manual is also suitable for:

Envy 15-10551150nr - mini - atom 1.6 ghzEnvy 15-1150Envy 15

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