HP Laptop User Manual
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Summary of Contents for HP Laptop

  • Page 1 User Guide...
  • Page 2 Company under license. Intel is a be bound by the terms of the HP End User trademark of Intel Corporation in the U.S. License Agreement (EULA). If you do not and other countries.
  • 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 Starting right ..............................1 Best practices ............................1 Fun things to do ............................ 1 More HP resources ..........................2 2 Getting to know your computer ........................3 Finding your hardware and software information ................. 3 Front ..............................3 Right side .............................
  • Page 6 Using audio ............................20 Connecting speakers ......................20 Connecting headphones ....................20 Connecting a microphone ....................21 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) ............
  • Page 7 Using firewall software ....................... 57 Installing software updates ......................... 57 Installing Windows security updates .................. 57 Installing HP and third-party software updates ..............57 Securing your wireless network ......................57 Backing up your software applications and information ..............58 Using an optional security cable lock ....................58...
  • Page 8 Restoring specific files ....................... 65 Restoring specific files using Windows Backup and Restore ......65 Recovering the original system using HP Recovery Manager ........... 65 What you need to know ..................65 Recovering using HP Recovery partition (select models only) ......66 Recovering using the recovery media ...............
  • Page 9 WLAN connection is very weak ................. 72 Cannot connect to the wireless router ............... 72 Network status icon is not displayed ..............72 Audio problems ........................73 Power management problems ................... 73 Resolving a low battery level ................73 Resolving a low battery level when external power is available ..73 Resolving a low battery level when no power source is available ..
  • Page 11: 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...
  • Page 12: More Hp Resources

    *You can find the expressly provided HP Limited Warranty applicable to your product located with the user guides on your computer and/or on the CD/DVD provided in the box. In some countries/regions, HP may provide a printed HP Limited Warranty in the box.
  • Page 13: Getting To Know Your Computer

    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...
  • Page 14: Right Side

    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.
  • Page 15: Left Side

    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.
  • Page 16 Component Description ● Hard drive light Blinking white: The hard drive is being accessed. ● (10) 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.
  • Page 17: Display

    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).
  • Page 18: Top

    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.
  • Page 19: Lights

    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.
  • Page 20: Buttons

    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.
  • Page 21: Keys

    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.
  • Page 22: Bottom

    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.
  • Page 23: Labels

    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...
  • Page 24: Connecting To A Network

    Because the wireless devices are enabled at the factory, you can use the wireless button to turn on or turn off the wireless devices simultaneously. Individual wireless devices can be controlled through HP Connection Manager.
  • Page 25: Using A Wlan

    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.
  • Page 26: Setting Up A Wlan

    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) ●...
  • Page 27: Connecting To A Wlan

    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.
  • Page 28 Connecting to a LAN requires an 8-pin, RJ-45 network cable. To connect the network cable, follow these steps: Plug the network cable into the network jack (1) on the computer. Plug the other end of the network cable into a network wall jack (2) or router. NOTE: If the network cable contains noise suppression circuitry (3), which prevents interference from TV and radio reception, orient the circuitry end of the cable toward the...
  • Page 29: Enjoying Entertainment Features

    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.
  • Page 30: Using The Webcam

    For details about using the webcam, select Start > Help and Support. Using audio On your HP computer, you can play music CDs, download and listen to music, stream audio content from the web (including radio), record audio, or mix audio and video to create multimedia. To enhance your listening enjoyment, attach external audio devices such as speakers or headphones.
  • Page 31: Connecting A Microphone

    Sound > Sound. 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.
  • Page 32: Connecting An Hdmi Tv Or Monitor

    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 4 display states: ● Computer only: View the screen image on the computer only. ●...
  • Page 33: Configuring Audio Settings (With Hdmi Tv)

    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 4 display states: ●...
  • Page 34: Managing Your Audio And Video Files

    Managing your audio and video files CyberLink PowerDVD (select models only) 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.
  • Page 35: Using The Keyboard And Pointing 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 >...
  • Page 36: Using Alt Gr Key Combinations

    Using ALT GR key combinations Some countries have keyboards with an ALT GR key that is used for special key combinations. To type the rupee symbol on a keyboard that includes this key, use the alt gr+4 key combination. Region-specific keyboards in India can use the ctrl+shift+4 keys for the rupee symbol.
  • Page 37: Using The Hot Keys

    Icon Description Plays the next track of an audio CD or the next section of a DVD or a BD. Decreases speaker volume incrementally as long as you hold down the key. Increases speaker volume incrementally as long as you hold down the key. Mutes or restores speaker sound.
  • Page 38: Turning The Touchpad Off Or On

    Component Description Left TouchPad button Functions like the left button on an external mouse. Right TouchPad button Functions like the right button on an external mouse. To move the pointer, slide one finger across the TouchPad in the direction you want the pointer to go. Use the left and right TouchPad buttons as you would use the buttons on an external mouse.
  • Page 39: Navigating

    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. Using the TouchPad...
  • Page 40: Using Touchpad Gestures

    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 >...
  • Page 41: Scrolling

    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.
  • Page 42: Rotating

    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.
  • Page 43: Managing Power

    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.
  • Page 44: Initiating And Exiting Hibernation

    A power plan manages how the computer uses power and helps you conserve power and maximize performance. The following power plans are available: ● HP Recommended. Automatically balances performance with energy conservation. ● Power Saver. Saves power by reducing system performance and screen brightness. ●...
  • Page 45: Running On Battery Power

    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.
  • Page 46: Finding Battery Information

    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 ●...
  • Page 47: Disposing Of A User-Replaceable Battery

    If the battery is possibly covered by an HP warranty, instructions include a warranty ID. A message refers you to the HP website for more information about ordering a replacement battery.
  • Page 48 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: ● When you need to replace the battery or access components inside the computer ●...
  • Page 49: Managing And Sharing Information

    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.
  • Page 50: Removing A Usb 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. 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.
  • Page 51: Using Optical Drives

    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. To remove a digital storage card: CAUTION: To reduce the risk of loss of data or an unresponsive system, use the following procedure to safely remove the digital card.
  • Page 52: Inserting An Optical Disc

    ● Make sure you have installed the latest software updates for the drive. ● If the disc you are using is not clean, wipe it with a dry, lint-free, soft cloth. Your computer may include an optical drive that supports one or more of the following disc technologies: ●...
  • Page 53: Removing An Optical Disc

    Hold the disc by the edges to avoid touching the flat surfaces and position the disc label-side up over the tray spindle. NOTE: If the tray is not fully accessible, tilt the disc carefully to position it over the spindle. Gently press the disc (3) down onto the tray spindle until the disc snaps into place.
  • Page 54: Sharing Drives On The Network

    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 55: Maintaining Your Computer

    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.
  • Page 56 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.
  • Page 57 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.
  • Page 58: Using Disk Defragmenter

    Disk Defragmenter may take more than an hour to complete. HP recommends defragmenting your hard drive at least once a month. You may set Disk Defragmenter to run on a monthly schedule, but you can defragment your computer manually at any time.
  • Page 59: Adding Or Replacing Memory Modules

    To run Disk Cleanup: Select Start > All Programs > Accessories > System Tools > Disk Cleanup. Follow the on-screen instructions. Adding or replacing memory modules Adding memory can help improve your computer's performance. Your computer is like your physical work area.
  • Page 60 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.
  • Page 61: Updating Programs And Drivers

    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. Technology is always changing, and updating programs and drivers allows your computer to run the latest technology available.
  • Page 62: Cleaning The Display, Sides, And Cover

    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 disposable wipe to clean the sides and cover. Fibrous materials, such as paper towels, can scratch the computer.
  • Page 63 ● 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.”...
  • Page 64: Securing Your Computer And Information

    Security cable lock 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: ●...
  • Page 65: Setting Windows Passwords

    Additional passwords can be set in Windows or in the HP Setup Utility (BIOS) that is preinstalled on your computer. You may find it helpful to use the same password for a Setup Utility (BIOS) feature and for a Windows security feature.
  • Page 66: Setting Setup Utility (Bios) Passwords

    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.
  • Page 67: Using Firewall Software

    Microsoft website and through the updates link in Help and Support. Installing HP and third-party software updates HP recommends that you regularly update the software and drivers that were originally installed on your computer. To download the latest versions, go to http://www.hp.com/support. At this location, you can also register to receive automatic update notifications when they become available.
  • Page 68: Backing Up Your Software Applications And Information

    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.
  • Page 69: Using Setup Utility (Bios) And System Diagnostics

    Updating the BIOS Updated versions of the BIOS may be available on the HP website. Most BIOS updates on the HP website 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 70: Downloading A Bios Update

    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.
  • Page 71 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.
  • Page 72: 11 Backing Up, Restoring, And Recovering

    (purchased separately) to create recovery discs, or you can obtain recovery discs for your computer from the HP website. If you use an external optical drive, it must be connected directly to a USB port on the computer, not to a USB port on an external device, such as a USB hub.
  • Page 73: Creating The Recovery Media

    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.
  • Page 74: Tips For A Successful Backup

    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.
  • Page 75: Restore And Recovery

    Recycle Bin, or if files become corrupt, restoring specific files is useful. Restoring specific files is also useful if you ever choose to recover the original system using HP Recovery Manager. You can only restore specific files that you have backed up before.
  • Page 76: Recovering Using Hp Recovery Partition (Select Models Only)

    ● If the recovery media do not work, you can obtain recovery discs for your system from the HP website. ● The Minimized Image Recovery option is recommended for advanced users only. All hardware- related drivers and software are re-installed, but other software applications are not. Do not interrupt the process until it is complete, otherwise the recovery will fail.
  • Page 77 To change the boot order for a recovery flash drive: Insert the flash drive into a USB port. Restart the computer. Press while the computer is restarting, and then press for boot options. Select the flash drive from the boot options window. Restore and recovery...
  • Page 78: 12 Specifications

    DC power source, it should be powered only with an AC adapter or a DC power source supplied and approved by HP for use with this computer. The computer can operate on DC power within the following specifications. Operating voltage and current varies by platform.
  • Page 79: 13 Troubleshooting And Support

    13 Troubleshooting and support ● Troubleshooting ● Contacting support...
  • Page 80: Troubleshooting

    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.
  • Page 81: Cannot Connect To A Wlan

    Cannot connect to a WLAN If you have a problem connecting to a WLAN, confirm that the integrated WLAN device is turned on and properly installed on your computer. If the wireless light is off or amber, press the wireless button, wireless switch, or wireless key to turn the wireless device on.
  • Page 82: Wlan Connection Is Very Weak

    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. If the WLAN device you are using was purchased separately, consult the manufacturer's website for the latest software.
  • Page 83: Audio Problems

    ● Connect an AC adapter. ● Connect an optional docking or expansion device. ● Connect an optional power adapter purchased as an accessory from HP. Resolving a low battery level when no power source is available ● Initiate Hibernation. ●...
  • Page 84: Resolving A Low Battery Level When The Computer Cannot Exit Hibernation

    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. Exit Hibernation by pressing the power button.
  • Page 85: Contacting Support

    Contacting support If the information provided in this user guide or in Help and Support does not answer your questions, you can contact support. For U.S. support, go to http://www.hp.com/go/contactHP. For worldwide support, go to http://welcome.hp.com/country/us/en/wwcontact_us.html. Here you can: ●...
  • Page 86: 14 Electrostatic Discharge

    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.
  • Page 87: Index

    WLAN 17 display system information 27 battery connector, power 4 using 27 conserving power 36 conservation, power 36 HP and third-party software disposing 37 corporate WLAN connection 17 updates, installing 57 replacing 37 critical battery level 36 HP Recovery Manager 65...
  • Page 88 Internet connection setup 16 Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity recovery 65 Internet security software, using label 13 HP Recovery Manager 65 mouse, external recovery discs 62 setting preferences 25 recovery media 62 recovery, system 65 jacks regulatory information audio-in (microphone) 5, 20...
  • Page 89 Windows applications key, temperature 36 identifying 11 TouchPad Windows Backup and Restore buttons 8, 28 restoring files 65 using 27 Windows logo key, identifying 11 TouchPad gestures Windows passwords 55 flicking 32 Windows security updates, pinching 31 installing 57 rotating 32 Wireless Assistant software 14 scrolling 31 wireless button 14...

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