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Bluetooth is a trademark owned by its common to most models. Some features otherwise using any software product proprietor and used by Hewlett-Packard may not be available on your computer. preinstalled on this computer, you agree to Company under license. Intel is a be bound by the terms of the HP End User trademark of Intel Corporation in the U.S.
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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.
Table of contents 1 Starting right ..............................1 Best practices ............................1 Fun things to do ............................ 2 More HP resources ..........................3 2 Getting to know your computer ........................4 Finding your hardware and software information ................. 4 Front ..............................4 Right side .............................
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Connecting to a wired network ......................19 Connecting to a local area network (LAN) ................. 19 4 Enjoying entertainment features ......................... 20 Using the webcam ..........................21 Using audio ............................21 Connecting speakers ......................22 Connecting headphones ....................22 Connecting a microphone ....................22 Checking the sound ......................
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Conserving battery power ....................39 Identifying low battery levels ....................39 Storing a user-replaceable battery ..................40 Disposing of a user-replaceable battery ................40 Replacing a user-replaceable battery ................40 Running on external power ........................ 41 Shutting down the computer ....................... 42 7 Managing and sharing information ......................
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Installing Windows security updates .................. 64 Installing HP and third-party software updates ..............64 Securing your wireless network ......................65 Backing up your software applications and information ..............65 Using an optional security cable lock ....................65 10 Using Setup Utility (BIOS) and System Diagnostics ................66 Starting Setup Utility (BIOS) .......................
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13 Troubleshooting and support ........................79 Troubleshooting ..........................80 Disc drive problems ......................80 Wireless connection problems ................... 81 Cannot connect to a WLAN ................81 Cannot connect to a preferred network ............. 82 Current network security codes are unavailable ..........82 WLAN connection is very weak .................
Starting right This computer is a powerful tool designed to enhance your work and entertainment. To get the most out of your computer, read this chapter to learn about best practices after setup, fun things to do with your computer, and where to go to get more HP resources. Best practices To protect your smart investment, after you set up and register the computer, we recommend the following steps:...
Fun things to do ● You know you can watch a YouTube video on the computer. But did you know that you can also connect your computer to a TV and watch the video on TV? For more information, see Connecting an HDMI TV or monitor on page ●...
North America: Hewlett-Packard, MS POD, 11311 Chinden Blvd., Boise, ID 83714, USA ● Europe, Middle East, Africa: Hewlett-Packard, POD, Via G. Di Vittorio, 9, 20063, Cernusco s/Naviglio (MI), Italy ● Asia Pacific: Hewlett-Packard, POD, P.O. Box 200, Alexandra Post Office, Singapore 911507 When you request a printed copy of your warranty, please include your product number, warranty period (found on your service label), name, and postal address.
Getting to know your computer Finding your hardware and software information ▲ Select Start > Computer. A list displays all the devices installed in your computer, including optical drives, solid-state drives (SSD), or a secondary hard drive. To find out what software is included on your computer, select Start > All Programs. Front Component Description...
Right side Component Description Optical drive Reads an optical disc. NOTE: On select models, the optical drive also writes to an optical disc. ● Optical drive light Green: The optical drive is being accessed. ● Off: The optical drive is idle. Optical drive eject button Releases the disc tray.
Left side Component Description External monitor port Connects an external VGA monitor or projector. Vent Enables airflow to cool internal components. NOTE: The computer fan starts up automatically to cool internal components and prevent overheating. It is normal for the internal fan to cycle on and off during routine operation. RJ-45 (network) jack Connects a network cable.
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Component Description Digital Media Slot Supports the following digital card formats: ● Secure Digital (SD) Memory Card ● Secure Digital Extended Capacity (SDxC) Memory Card ● Secure Digital High Capacity (SDHC) Memory Card ● Ultra High Speed MultiMediaCard (UHS/MMC) ● Hard drive light Blinking white: The hard drive is being accessed.
Display Component Description Internal display switch Turns off the display and initiates Sleep if the display is closed while the power is on. NOTE: The internal display switch is not visible from the outside of the computer. WLAN antennas (2)* Send and receive wireless signals to communicate with wireless local area networks (WLANs).
TouchPad Component Description TouchPad on/off button Turns the TouchPad on or off. ● TouchPad light On: The TouchPad is off. ● Off: The TouchPad is on. TouchPad zone Moves the on-screen pointer and selects or activates items on the screen. Left TouchPad button Functions like the left button on an external mouse.
Lights Component Description Caps lock light On: Caps lock is on, which switches the keys to all capital letters. ● Power light White: The computer is on. ● Blinking white: The computer is in the Sleep state, which is an energy-saving mode. The computer shuts off power to the display and other unneeded components.
Buttons Component Description ● Power button 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.
Keys Component Description Displays system information when pressed in combination with the key. Displays system information when pressed in combination with the key. Windows logo key Displays the Windows Start menu. Action keys Execute frequently used system functions. Windows applications key Displays a shortcut menu for items beneath the cursor.
Bottom Component Description Battery bay Holds the battery. Vents (3) Enable airflow to cool internal components. NOTE: The computer fan starts up automatically to cool internal components and prevent overheating. It is normal for the internal fan to cycle on and off during routine operation. Battery release latch Releases the battery from the battery bay.
Labels The labels affixed to the computer provide information you may need when you troubleshoot system problems or travel internationally with the computer. The labels are in easily accessible locations. ● Service label—Provides important information, including the following: Component Product name Serial number Product part number Warranty period...
Connecting to a network Your computer can travel with you wherever you go. But even at home, you can explore the globe and access information from millions of websites using your computer and a wired or wireless network connection. This chapter will help you get connected to that world. Connecting to a wireless network Wireless technology transfers data across radio waves instead of wires.
Using the wireless button The computer has a wireless button, one or more wireless devices, and one or two wireless lights, depending on the model. All of the wireless devices on your computer are enabled at the factory, so the wireless light is on (white) when you turn on the computer. The wireless light indicates the overall power state of your wireless devices, not the status of individual devices.
Setting up a WLAN To set up a WLAN and connect to the Internet, you need the following equipment: ● A broadband modem (either DSL or cable) (1) and high-speed Internet service purchased from an Internet service provider ● A wireless router (2) (purchased separately) ●...
Connecting to a WLAN To connect to the WLAN, follow these steps: Be sure that the WLAN device is on. If the device is on, the wireless light is white. If the wireless light is amber, press the wireless button. Click the network status icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar.
Connecting to a wired network A LAN connection uses a network cable, which is sold separately. WARNING! To reduce the risk of electric shock, fire, or damage to the equipment, do not plug a modem cable or telephone cable into an RJ-45 (network) jack. Connecting to a local area network (LAN) Use a LAN connection if you want to connect the computer directly to a router in your home (instead of working wirelessly), or if you want to connect to an existing network at your office.
Enjoying entertainment features Use your HP computer as an entertainment hub to socialize via the webcam, enjoy and manage your music, and download and watch movies. Or, to make your computer an even more powerful entertainment center, connect external devices like speakers, headphones, monitor, projector, TV, and, on select models, high-definition devices.
Component Description Optical drive Reads an optical disc. NOTE: On select models, the optical drive also writes to an optical disc. Speakers Produce sound. Audio-out (headphone) jack Produces sound when connected to optional powered stereo speakers, headphones, earbuds, a headset, or television audio.
Connecting speakers You can attach wired speakers to your computer by connecting them to USB ports (or the audio-out jack) on your computer or on a docking station. To connect wireless speakers to your computer, follow the device manufacturer's instructions. To connect high-definition speakers to the computer, see Configuring audio settings (with HDMI TV) on page...
Using video Your HP computer is a powerful video device that enables you to watch streaming video from your favorite websites and download video and movies to watch on your computer, without needing to access a network. To enhance your viewing enjoyment, use one of the video ports on the computer to connect an external monitor, projector, or TV.
Connecting an HDMI TV or monitor To see the computer screen image on a high-definition TV or monitor, connect the high-definition device according to the following instructions. To connect an HDMI device to your computer, you need an HDMI cable, sold separately. NOTE: Adjust the screen resolution of the external device, especially if you choose the “Extend”...
Configuring audio settings (with HDMI TV) HDMI is the only video interface that supports high-definition video and audio. After you connect an HDMI TV to the computer, you can then turn on HDMI audio by following these steps: Right-click the Speaker icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar, and then click Playback devices.
Using the keyboard and pointing devices Your computer allows easy on-screen navigation with a keyboard and pointing device. Select models also have action keys or hot key shortcuts that enable you to do common tasks. The TouchPad enables you to perform on-screen functions similar to those done by an external mouse. To customize pointing device settings, such as button configuration, click speed, and pointer options, select Start >...
Using the action keys An action key performs an assigned function. The icon on each of the through keys illustrates the assigned function for that key. To use an action key function, press and hold the key. The action key feature is enabled at the factory. You can disable this feature in Setup Utility (BIOS). Using Setup Utility (BIOS) and System Diagnostics on page 66 for instructions on opening Setup Utility (BIOS), and then follow the instructions at the bottom of the screen.
Icon Description Mutes or restores speaker sound. Turns the wireless feature on or off. NOTE: A wireless network must be set up before a wireless connection is possible. Using the hot keys To use a hot key: ▲ Briefly press the key, and then briefly press the second key of the combination.
Using the TouchPad Component Description TouchPad on/off button Turns the TouchPad on or off. ● TouchPad light On: The TouchPad is off. ● Off: The TouchPad is on. TouchPad zone Moves the on-screen pointer and selects or activates items on the screen. Left TouchPad button Functions like the left button on an external mouse.
Navigating To move the on-screen pointer, slide one finger across the TouchPad in the direction you want the pointer to go. Selecting Use the left and right TouchPad buttons as you would use the corresponding buttons on an external mouse. Chapter 5 Using the keyboard and pointing devices...
Using TouchPad gestures The TouchPad supports a variety of gestures that let your fingers swipe, pinch, and rotate to manipulate items on the desktop. To use TouchPad gestures, place two fingers on the TouchPad at the same time. NOTE: TouchPad gestures are not supported in all programs. To view the demonstration of a gesture: Select Start >...
Scrolling Scrolling is useful for moving up, down, or sideways on a page or image. To scroll, place two fingers slightly apart on the TouchPad, and then drag them across the TouchPad in an up, down, left, or right motion. NOTE: Scrolling speed is controlled by finger speed.
Rotating Rotating allows you to rotate items such as photos. To rotate, anchor your left forefinger in the TouchPad zone. Move the right forefinger around the anchored finger in a sweeping motion, moving from 12 o’clock to 3 o’clock. To reverse the rotation, move your right forefinger from 3 o’clock to 12 o’clock.
Managing power Your computer can operate on either battery power or external power. When the computer is only running on battery power and an AC power source is not available to charge the battery, it is important to monitor and conserve the battery charge. Your computer supports power plans to manage how your computer uses and conserves power so that you can balance computer performance with power conservation.
Initiating and exiting Sleep The system is set at the factory to initiate Sleep after a specific period of inactivity, depending on whether the computer is running on battery power or on external power. Power settings and timeouts can be changed using Power Options in Windows Control Panel. With the computer on, you can initiate Sleep in any of the following ways: ●...
Initiating and exiting Hibernation The system is set at the factory to initiate Hibernation after a specific period of inactivity, depending on whether the computer is running on battery power or on external power, or when the battery reaches a critical battery level. Power settings and timeouts can be changed in Windows Control Panel.
Using the power meter The power meter allows you to quickly access power settings and view the remaining battery charge. ● To display the percentage of remaining battery charge and the current power plan, move the pointer over the Power Meter icon, at the far right of the taskbar. ●...
Running on battery power When a charged battery is in the computer and the computer is not plugged into external power, the computer runs on battery power and the display brightness decreases to conserve battery life. The battery in the computer slowly discharges when the computer is off and unplugged from external power.
Finding battery information Help and Support provides the following tools and information about the battery: ● Battery Check tool in Help and Support to test battery performance ● Information about calibration, power management, and proper care and storage to maximize battery life ●...
Storing a user-replaceable battery CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to a battery, do not expose it to high temperatures for extended periods of time. If your computer will be unused and unplugged from external power for more than 2 weeks, remove the battery and store it separately in a cool, dry place to prolong the battery charge.
Running on external power For information about connecting to AC power, see the Setup Instructions provided in the computer box. The computer does not use battery power when the computer is connected to external power with an approved AC adapter or an optional docking/expansion device. WARNING! 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.
Shutting down the computer CAUTION: Unsaved information is lost when the computer shuts 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: ●...
Managing and sharing information Drives are digital storage devices or solid-state drives that help you store, manage, share, and access information. Your computer has an internal hard drive that stores your computer's software, operating system, as well as providing storage for all of your personal files. Some computers also have a built-in optical drive that allows you to read or write to a CD, DVD, or (on select models) Blu- ray Disc (BD), to play and record audio and video.
Connecting a USB device CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to a USB connector, use minimal force to connect the device. ▲ Connect the USB cable for the device to the USB port. NOTE: The USB port on your computer may look slightly different from the illustration in this section.
Inserting and removing a digital storage card To insert a digital storage card: CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to the digital card connectors, use minimal force to insert a digital card. Hold the card label-side up, with the connectors facing the computer. Insert the card into the digital storage slot, and then press in on the card until it is firmly seated.
Using optical drives An optical disc drive uses laser light to read or store large amounts of information. Some drives can only read information, but others can also write (burn) information onto a blank disc. Use these tips for best performance of your optical drive: ●...
● For copy protection purposes, Advanced Access Content System (AACS) keys are integrated into the computer. AACS keys require occasional renewal to support playback of new BD movie releases. The CyberLink PowerDVD program will request an update to continue playback when such a BD movie release is inserted in the drive.
Removing an optical disc Press the release button (1) on the drive bezel to release the disc tray, and then gently pull out the tray (2) until it stops. Remove the disc (3) from the tray by gently pressing down on the spindle while lifting the outer edges of the disc.
Sharing drives on the network You can access software and data and install applications by sharing drives connected to another computer in your network. NOTE: Some discs, such as DVD movies and games, may be copy-protected and therefore unusable through DVD or CD drive sharing. To share on the same network: From the computer you are sharing, select Start >...
Maintaining your computer It is important to perform regular maintenance to keep your computer in optimal condition. This chapter provides information about improving the performance of your computer by running tools such as Disk Defragmenter and Disk Cleanup and by replacing a hard drive or adding memory. It also provides information about updating your programs and drivers, instructions for cleaning your computer, and tips for traveling with your computer.
● Do not type on the keyboard or move the computer while an optical drive is writing to a disc. The write process is sensitive to vibration. ● 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.
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Remove the hard drive: Loosen the hard drive cover screw (1) (or screws depending on your model), and then lift up (2) and remove the cover (3). Disconnect the hard drive cable (1) from the system board. Lift the hard drive (2) out of the hard drive bay. NOTE: After removing the hard drive from the computer, you must remove the hard drive bracket to access the hard drive itself.
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Remove the hard drive (3) from the bracket. To install a hard drive, reverse this procedure. Improving performance...
Using Disk Defragmenter As you use your computer over time, the files on the hard drive become fragmented. A fragmented drive means data on your drive is not contiguous (sequential) and, because of this, the hard drive works harder to locate files, thus slowing down the computer. Disk Defragmenter consolidates (or physically reorganizes) the fragmented files and folders on the hard drive so that the system can run more efficiently.
Adding or replacing memory modules Adding memory can help improve your computer's performance. Your computer is like your physical work area. The hard drive is the filing cabinet where you store your work and the memory is the desk where you work. When your memory isn’t big enough to hold all your work easily, like a desk overflowing with work, your productivity slows down.
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Grasp the edge of the memory module (2), and then gently pull the module out of the memory module slot. CAUTION: To prevent damage to the memory module, hold the memory module by the edges only. Do not touch the components on the memory module. To protect a memory module after removal, place it in an electrostatic-safe container.
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Replace the wireless and memory module compartment cover. Replace the battery. Turn the computer right-side up, and then reconnect external power and external devices. Turn on the computer. Improving performance...
Updating programs and drivers HP recommends that you update your programs and drivers on a regular basis to the latest versions. Updates can resolve issues and bring new features and options to your computer. Technology is always changing, and updating programs and drivers allows your computer to run the latest technology available.
Traveling with or shipping your computer If you have to travel with or ship your computer, here are some tips to keep in mind to keep your equipment safe. ● Prepare the computer for traveling or shipping: ◦ Back up your information to an external drive. ◦...
Securing your computer and information Computer security is essential for protecting the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of your information. Standard security solutions provided by the Windows operating system, HP applications, the non-Windows Setup Utility (BIOS), and other third-party software can help protect your computer from a variety of risks, such as viruses, worms, and other types of malicious code.
Locating your security software HP Security Assistant (select models only) provides a starting location for quick access to a collection of security software applications that are organized by task. Instead of searching for each application through the Start menu and Control Panel, HP Security Assistant allows you to access the applications for the following security tasks: ●...
Setting Windows passwords Password Function User password Protects access to a Windows user account. You may also set up your computer to require the user password to exit Sleep or Hibernation. See Setting password protection on wakeup on page 36 for more information.
Using Internet security software When you use your computer to access email, a network, or the Internet, you potentially expose your computer to computer viruses, spyware, and other online threats. To help protect your computer, Internet security software that includes antivirus and firewall features may be preinstalled on your computer as a trial offer.
Installing software updates HP, Microsoft Windows, and third-party software installed on your computer should be regularly updated to correct security problems and improve software performance. For more information, see Updating programs and drivers on page Installing Windows security updates Updates to the operating system and other software may have become available after the computer left the factory.
Securing your wireless network When you set up your wireless network, always enable security features. For more information, see Protecting your WLAN on page Backing up your software applications and information Regularly back up your software applications and information to protect them from being permanently lost or damaged through a virus attack or a software or hardware failure.
10 Using Setup Utility (BIOS) and System Diagnostics Setup Utility, or Basic Input/Output System (BIOS), controls communication between all the input and output devices on the system (such as disk drives, display, keyboard, mouse, and printer). Setup Utility (BIOS) includes settings for the types of devices installed, the startup sequence of the computer, and the amount of system and extended memory.
Determining the BIOS version To determine whether available BIOS updates contain later BIOS versions than those currently installed on the computer, you need to know the version of the system BIOS currently installed. BIOS version information (also known as ROM date and System BIOS) can be displayed by pressing fn+esc (if you are already in Windows) or by using Setup Utility (BIOS).
Double-click the file that has an .exe extension (for example, filename.exe). The BIOS installation begins. Complete the installation by following the on-screen instructions. NOTE: After a message on the screen reports a successful installation, you can delete the downloaded file from your hard drive. Using System Diagnostics System Diagnostics allows you to run diagnostic tests to determine if the computer hardware is functioning properly.
11 Backing up, restoring, and recovering Your computer includes tools provided by the operating system and HP to help you safeguard your information and retrieve it if ever needed. Creating backups Use HP Recovery Manager to create recovery media immediately after you set up the working computer.
What you need to know ● Only one set of recovery media can be created. Handle these recovery tools carefully, and keep them in a safe place. ● HP Recovery Manager examines the computer and determines the required storage capacity for the flash drive or the number of blank DVD discs that will be required.
Creating system restore points A system restore point is a snapshot of certain hard drive contents saved by Windows System Restore at a specific time. A restore point contains information such as registry settings that Windows uses. Restoring to a previous restore point allows you to reverse changes that have been made to the system since the restore point was created.
Tips for a successful backup ● Number backup discs before inserting them into the optical drive. ● Store personal files in the Documents, Music, Pictures, and Videos libraries, and back up these folders periodically. ● Save customized settings in a window, toolbar, or menu bar by taking a screen shot of your settings.
Creating a backup using Windows Backup and Restore Windows allows you to back up files using Windows Backup and Restore. You can select the level you want to back up, from individual folders to drives. The backups are compressed to save space. To back up: Select Start >...
Restoring specific files using Windows Backup and Restore Windows allows you to restore files that were backed up using Windows Backup and Restore: Select Start > Control Panel > System and Security > Backup and Restore. Follow the on-screen instructions to restore your backup. NOTE: Windows includes the User Account Control feature to improve the security of the computer.
Recovering using HP Recovery partition (select models only) The HP Recovery partition (select models only), allows you to restore your system without the need for recovery discs or a recovery flash drive. This type of recovery can only be used if the hard drive is still working.
Changing the computer boot order To change the boot order for recovery discs: Restart the computer. Press while the computer is restarting, and then press for boot options. Select Internal CD/DVD ROM Drive from the boot options window. To change the boot order for a recovery flash drive: Insert the flash drive into a USB port.
12 Specifications Input power The power information in this section may be helpful if you plan to travel internationally with the computer. The computer operates on DC power, which can be supplied by an AC or a DC power source. The AC power source must be rated at 100–240 V, 50–60 Hz.
Operating environment Factor Metric U.S. Temperature Operating 5°C to 35°C 41°F to 95°F Nonoperating -20°C to 60°C -4°F to 140°F Relative humidity (noncondensing) Operating 10% to 90% 10% to 90% Nonoperating 5% to 95% 5% to 95% Maximum altitude (unpressurized) Operating -15 m to 3,048 m -50 ft to 10,000 ft...
Troubleshooting Disc drive problems If the disc tray fails to open normally, follow these steps: Insert the end of a paper clip into the release access (1) in the front bezel of the drive. Press in gently on the paper clip until the tray is released, and then pull out the tray (2) until it stops.
Wireless connection problems Some possible causes for wireless connection problems include the following: ● Wireless device is not turned on. ● Wireless device is not installed correctly or has been disabled. ● Wireless device encountered interference from other devices. ● Wireless device or router hardware has failed.
Cannot connect to a preferred network You may not be able to connect to a preferred network because it is a security-enabled WLAN. You must have the security code to connect to this type of WLAN. See the next section for additional information.
WLAN connection is very weak If the connection is very weak, or if your computer cannot make a connection to a WLAN, minimize interference from other devices, as follows: ● Move your computer closer to the wireless router or access point. ●...
Audio problems To check the audio functions on your computer, follow these steps: Select Start > Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > Sound. When the Sound window opens, click the Sounds tab. Under Program Events, select any sound event, such as a beep or alarm, and click the Test button. You should hear sound through the speakers or through connected headphones.
Troubleshooting 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 does not turn on. ● The display does not turn on. ● The power lights are off. To test the AC adapter: Shut down the computer.
14 Electrostatic Discharge Electrostatic discharge is the release of static electricity when two objects come into contact—for example, the shock you receive when you walk across the carpet and touch a metal door knob. A discharge of static electricity from fingers or other electrostatic conductors may damage electronic components.
Index BIOS AC adapter 5 determining version 67 deleted files action keys downloading an update 67 restoring 73 decrease screen brightness updating 66 digital card Bluetooth device 15, 18 inserting 45 Help and Support 27 Bluetooth label 14 Digital Media Slot, identifying 7 identifying 12 boot order Disk Cleanup software 54...
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hot keys caps lock 10 power display system information 28 hard drive 7 battery 38 using 28 optical drive 5 conserving 39 HP and third-party software power 7, 10 power button, identifying 11 updates, installing 64 TouchPad 9, 29 power connector, identifying 5 HP Recovery Manager 74 webcam 8, 20 power lights, identifying 7, 10...
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Sleep description 43 WLAN label 14 exiting 35 removing 44 writable media 34 initiating 35 USB hubs 43 slots USB ports, identifying 5, 6, 20 zooming TouchPad gesture 32 Digital Media 7 using external AC power 41 security cable 5 using passwords 61 software using the power meter 37...