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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 ............................ 1 More HP resources ..........................1 2 Getting to know your computer ........................3 Finding your hardware and software information ................. 3 Front ..............................3 Right side .............................
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Using audio ............................20 Connecting speakers ......................20 Connecting headphones ....................20 Connecting a microphone ....................20 Checking the sound ......................21 Using video ............................21 Connecting a VGA monitor or projector ................21 Connecting an HDMI TV or monitor ................... 22 Configuring audio settings (with HDMI TV) ............
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7 Managing and sharing information ......................36 Using a USB device ........................... 36 Connecting a USB device ....................36 Removing a USB device ....................37 Connecting a powered USB device ................... 37 Inserting and removing a digital storage card ..................37 Using optical drives ..........................
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10 Using Setup Utility (BIOS) and System Diagnostics ................56 Starting Setup Utility (BIOS) ....................... 56 Updating the BIOS ..........................56 Determining the BIOS version ................... 56 Downloading a BIOS update ..................... 57 Using System Diagnostics ........................57 11 Backing up, restoring, and recovering ..................... 59 Creating backups ..........................
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Current network security codes are unavailable ..........67 WLAN connection is very weak ................. 68 Cannot connect to the wireless router ............... 68 Network status icon is not displayed ..............69 Audio problems ........................69 Power management problems ................... 69 Resolving a low battery level ................
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:...
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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...
Component Description ● AC adapter light White: The AC adapter is connected and the battery is charged. ● Amber: The AC adapter is connected and the battery is charging. ● Off: The computer is using DC power. Power connector Connects an AC adapter. Security cable slot Attaches an optional security cable to the computer.
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Component Description Audio-in (microphone) jack Connects an optional computer headset microphone, stereo array microphone, or monaural microphone. Audio-out (headphone) jacks Connects optional powered stereo speakers, headphones, earbuds, a headset, or a television audio cable. WARNING! To reduce the risk of personal injury, adjust the volume before using headphones, earbuds, or a headset.
Display Component Description WLAN antennas (2)* (select models only) Send and receive wireless signals to communicate with wireless local area networks (WLANs). Internal microphone Record sound. Webcam Records video, captures still photographs, and allows video conferences and online chat by means of streaming video. To use the webcam, select Start >...
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 and speakers 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. Used in conjunction with hotkeys. 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 (4) 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.
Component Description Wireless compartment, and The service door provides access to the memory module compartment, wireless compartment, memory module keyboard screw, and optical compartment, keyboard access screw, and drive bay. optical drive bay, CAUTION: To prevent an unresponsive system, replace the wireless module only with a wireless module authorized for use in the computer by the governmental agency that regulates wireless devices in...
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● Regulatory label—Provides regulatory information about the computer. The regulatory label is affixed inside the battery bay. ● Wireless certification label or labels—Provide information about optional wireless devices and the approval markings of some of the countries or regions in which the devices have been approved for use.
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.
To use operating system controls, select Start > Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center. For more information, select Start > Help and Support. 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.
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 on. If the wireless light is off, press the wireless button. NOTE: On some models, the wireless light is amber when all wireless devices are off.
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. Connecting to a LAN requires an 8-pin, RJ-45 network cable.
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 Audio-in (microphone) jack Connects an optional computer headset microphone, stereo array microphone, or monaural microphone. HDMI port Connects an optional video or audio device, such as a high-definition television, any compatible digital or audio component, or a high-speed HDMI device. (10) External monitor port Connects an external VGA monitor or projector.
Checking the sound 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.
To connect a monitor or projector: Connect the VGA cable from the monitor or projector to the VGA port on the computer as shown. Press to alternate the screen image between 3 display states: ● View the screen image on the computer. ●...
To connect a high-definition TV or monitor to your computer: Connect one end of the HDMI cable to the HDMI port on the computer. Connect the other end of the cable to the high-definition TV or monitor. Press to alternate the computer screen image between 3 display states: ●...
Managing your audio and video files CyberLink PowerDVD helps you manage and edit your photo and video collections. ▲ To start CyberLink PowerDVD, select Start > All Programs > Music, Photos and Videos, and then click CyberLink PowerDVD. For more information about using CyberLink PowerDVD, see the PowerDVD software Help. Chapter 4 Enjoying entertainment features...
Using the keyboard and pointing devices Your computer allows easy on-screen navigation. In addition to the keyboard, a TouchPad allows you to perform on-screen functions. Your computer may also have an integrated numeric keypad. Select models also have special action keys or hot key functions to perform routine tasks simply. In addition to the pointing devices, such as a TouchPad, included with your computer, you can use an external USB mouse (purchased separately) by connecting it to one of the USB ports on the computer.
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Icon Description Opens Help and Support, which provides tutorials, information about the Windows operating system and your computer, answers to questions, and updates to your computer. Help and Support also provides automated troubleshooting tools and access to customer support. Decreases the screen brightness incrementally as long as you hold down the key. Increases the screen brightness incrementally as long as you hold down the key.
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.
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 >...
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 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.
You can also create your own power plan and customize it to suit your needs. Use HP Power Manager (select models only) or Windows Control Panel to select a power plan or to create your own plan. To start HP Power Manager, select Start > Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > HP Power Manager.
Pivot the battery (2) upward and (3) remove it from the computer. 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 ●...
Identifying low battery levels When a battery that is the sole power source for the computer reaches a low or critical battery level, the power meter icon in the notification area displays a low or critical battery notification. NOTE: For additional information about the power meter, see Using the power meter on page The computer takes the following actions for a critical battery level: ●...
● When writing information to a disc (select models only) ● When running Disk Defragmenter on computers with internal hard drives ● When performing a backup or recovery When you connect the computer to external power: ● The battery begins to charge. ●...
Managing and sharing information Drives are digital storage devices, including hard drives, solid-state drives, optical drives and more, 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.
▲ 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. A sound indicates that the device has been detected. NOTE: The first time you connect a USB device, a message in the notification area lets you know that the device is recognized by the computer.
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. A sound indicates that the device has been detected, and a menu of options displays.
Use these tips for best performance of your optical drive: ● When the battery is the only source of power, be sure the battery is sufficiently charged before writing to media. ● 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.
Gently press the disc (3) down onto the tray spindle until the disc snaps into place. NOTE: If the tray is not fully accessible, tilt the disc carefully as you remove it. Close the disc tray. NOTE: After you insert a disc, a short pause is normal. If you have not selected a media player, an AutoPlay dialog box opens.
If the disc tray does not open normally, see Disc drive problems on page 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.
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 travelling with your computer.
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CAUTION: To prevent information loss or an unresponsive system: Before removing or installing a drive, shut down the computer. If you are unsure whether the computer is off, in the Sleep state, or in Hibernation, turn the computer on, and then shut it down through the operating system.
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Loosen the hard drive cover screw (1) and then lift up the cover (2) and remove it (3). Remove the 4 screws that hold the drive in place (1). Remove the hard drive bracket (2), which hold the hard drive in place, to access the hard drive itself.
Disconnect the hard drive cable (1) from the hard drive. Remove the brackets from the hard drive (2). Disconnect the hard drive cable (3) from the hard drive. To install a hard drive, reverse this procedure. 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.
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.
Replace the memory module service door. Replace the battery. Turn the computer right-side up, and then reconnect external power and external devices. Turn on the computer. 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.
Cleaning the display, sides, and cover Gently wipe the display using a soft, lint-free cloth moistened with an alcohol-free glass cleaner. Allow the display to dry before closing the computer cover. Use a pre-moistened germicidal wipe to clean the sides and cover. Fibrous materials, such as paper towels, can scratch the computer.
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● If the computer will be unused and disconnected from external power for more than 2 weeks, remove the battery and store it separately. ● If you are shipping the computer or a drive, use suitable protective packaging and label the package “FRAGILE.”...
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.
You may find it helpful to use the same password for a Setup Utility (BIOS) feature and for a Windows security feature. Use the following tips for creating and saving passwords: ● To reduce the risk of being locked out of the computer, record each password and store it in a secure place away from the computer.
Setting Setup Utility (BIOS) passwords Password Function ● Administrator password Must be entered each time you access Setup Utility (BIOS). ● If you forget your administrator password, you cannot access Setup Utility (BIOS). NOTE: The administrator password can be used in place of the power-on password.
For more information about computer viruses, type viruses in the Search box in Help and Support. Using firewall software Firewalls are designed to prevent unauthorized access to a system or network. A firewall can be software you install on your computer and/or network, or it can be a combination of both hardware and software.
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. For more information, see Backing up, restoring, and recovering on page Using an optional security cable lock A security cable lock, which is purchased separately, is designed to act as a deterrent, but it may not prevent the computer from being mishandled or stolen.
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.
Downloading a BIOS update CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to the computer or an unsuccessful installation, download and install a BIOS update only when the computer is connected to reliable external power using the AC adapter. Do not download or install a BIOS update while the computer is running on battery power, docked in an optional docking device, or connected to an optional power source.
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To start System Diagnostics: Turn on or restart the computer. While the “Press the ESC key for Startup Menu” message is displayed in the lower-left corner of the screen, press esc. When the Startup Menu is displayed, press f2. Click the diagnostic test you want to run, and then follow the on-screen instructions. NOTE: If you need to stop a diagnostics test while it is running, press esc.
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.
Creating the recovery media Select Start and type recovery in the search field. Select Recovery Manager from the list. Allow the action to continue, if prompted. Click Recovery Media Creation. Follow the on-screen instructions to continue. To recover, see Recovering the original system using HP Recovery Manager on page 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.
Tips for a successful backup ● Number backup discs before inserting them into the optical drive. ● Store personal files in the Documents library and back up this folder periodically. ● Save customized settings in a window, toolbar, or menu bar by taking a screen shot of your settings.
Restore and recovery Restoring to a previous system restore point Sometimes installing a software program causes your computer or Windows to behave unpredictably. Usually uninstalling the software fixes the problems. If uninstalling does not fix the problems, you can restore the computer to a previous system restore point (created at an earlier date and time). To revert to a previous system restore point, when the computer was running correctly: Select Start >...
What you need to know ● HP Recovery Manager recovers only software that was installed at the factory. For software not provided with this computer, you must either download the software from the manufacturer's website or reinstall the software from the disc provided by the manufacturer. ●...
Press at system bootup. Select the optical drive or the flash drive. Follow the on-screen instructions. 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.
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.
13 Troubleshooting and support ● Troubleshooting ● Contacting customer support 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 device encountered interference from other devices. ● Wireless device or router hardware has failed. NOTE: Wireless networking devices are included with select computer models only. If wireless networking is not listed in the feature list on the side of the original computer package, you may add wireless networking capability to the computer by purchasing a wireless networking device.
on a secure network. The SSID and security code are alphanumeric codes that you enter into your computer to identify your computer to the network. ● For a network connected to your personal wireless router, review the router user guide for instructions on setting up the same codes on both the router and the WLAN device.
Network status icon is not displayed If the network status icon is not displayed in the notification area after you configure the WLAN, the software driver is either missing or corrupted. 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 website at http://www.hp.com.
Resolving a low battery level when no power source is available ● Initiate Hibernation. ● Save your work and shut down the computer. Resolving a low battery level when the computer cannot exit Hibernation When the computer lacks sufficient power to exit Hibernation, follow these steps: Replace the discharged user-replaceable battery with a charged battery, or connect the AC adapter to the computer and to external power.
Contacting customer support If the information provided in this user guide or in Help and Support does not answer your questions, you can contact HP Customer Support at http://www.hp.com/go/contactHP. NOTE: For worldwide support, go to http://welcome.hp.com/country/us/en/wwcontact_us.html. Here you can: ● Chat online with an HP technician.
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.