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This user guide describes features that are Bluetooth is a trademark owned by its common to most models. Some features proprietor and used by Hewlett-Packard may not be available on your computer. Company under license. SD Logo is a To obtain the latest information in the HP trademark of its proprietor.
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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 Hardware features Identifying the hardware ........................1 Top components ........................1 TouchPad ......................1 Lights ........................2 Buttons ........................ 3 Keys ........................4 Front components ........................ 4 Right-side components ......................5 Left-side components ......................6 Display components ......................7 Bottom components ......................
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Troubleshooting wireless connection problems ................. 23 Cannot connect to a WLAN ....................23 Cannot connect to a preferred WLAN network ..............24 Network icon for WLAN is not displayed ................24 Current WLAN network security codes are unavailable ............ 24 WLAN connection is very weak ..................
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5 Memory modules 6 Pointing devices and keyboard Setting pointing device preferences ....................49 Using pointing devices ........................49 Using the TouchPad ......................49 Connecting an external mouse ..................49 Using the keyboard ..........................49 Using hotkeys ........................49 Initiating Sleep ....................50 Switching the screen image ................
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Resolving a low battery level when a charged battery is available ................... 62 Resolving a low battery level when no power source is available ................... 62 Resolving a low battery level when the computer cannot exit Hibernation ..................62 Calibrating a battery ......................62 Step 1: Fully charge the battery ................
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Displaying system information ................... 79 Restoring default settings in Setup Utility ................79 Exiting Setup Utility ......................79 Setup Utility menus ..........................80 Main menu ......................... 80 Security menu ........................80 System Configuration menu ....................80 Diagnostics menu ......................81 Index ...................................
Hardware features Identifying the hardware Components included with the computer may vary by region and model. The illustrations in this chapter identify the standard features on most computer models. To see a list of hardware installed in the computer: Select Start > Control panel > System and Security. In the System area, click Device Manager.
Right TouchPad button* Functions like the right button on an external mouse. TouchPad scroll zone Scrolls up or down. *This table describes factory settings. To view or change pointing device preferences, select Start > Devices and Printers. Then, right-click the device representing your computer, and select Mouse. Lights Component Description...
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. Executes frequently used system functions when pressed in combination with a function key. Windows® logo key Displays the Windows Start menu. Windows applications key Displays a shortcut menu for items beneath the pointer.
Component Description ● Battery light On: A battery is charging. ● Blinking: A battery that is the only available power source has reached a low battery level. When the battery reaches a critical battery level, the battery light begins blinking rapidly. ●...
Component Description External monitor port Connects an external VGA monitor or projector. RJ-45 (network) jack Connects a network cable. Left-side components Component Description Security cable slot Attaches an optional security cable to the computer. NOTE: The security cable is designed to act as a deterrent, but it may not prevent the computer from being mishandled or stolen.
Display components Component Description Internal display switch Turns off the display if the display is closed while the power is on. Webcam light On: The webcam is in use. Webcam Captures still photographs and videos. NOTE: To capture videos, you must install additional webcam software.
Bottom components Component Description Battery release latches (2) Release the battery from the battery bay. 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.
Wireless antennas Component Description WLAN antennas (2)* Send and receive wireless signals to communicate with wireless local area networks (WLANs). WWAN antennas (2) (select models only)* Send and receive wireless signals to communicate with wireless wide-area networks (WWANs). *The antennas are not visible from the outside of the computer. For optimal transmission, keep the areas immediately around the antennas free from obstructions.
Additional hardware components Component Description Power cord* Connects an AC adapter to an AC outlet. Battery* Powers the computer when the computer is not plugged into external power. AC adapter Converts AC power to DC power. *Batteries and power cords vary in appearance by region and country. Identifying the labels The labels affixed to the computer provide information you may need when you troubleshoot system problems or travel internationally with the computer.
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◦ Model description (4). This is the alphanumeric identifier you use to locate documents, drivers, and support for your computer. ◦ Warranty period (5). This number describes the duration (in years) of the warranty period for this computer. Have this information available when you contact technical support. The service tag label is affixed to the bottom of the computer.
Wireless and local area network Using wireless devices Wireless technology transfers data across radio waves instead of wires. Your computer may be equipped with one or more of the following wireless devices: ● Wireless local area network (WLAN) device—Connects the computer to wireless local area networks (commonly referred to as Wi-Fi networks, wireless LANs, or WLANs) in corporate offices, your home, and public places such as airports, restaurants, coffee shops, hotels, and universities.
Wireless (connected) Identifies the location of the wireless light and the wireless function key on the computer. Also identifies the Wireless Assistant software on the computer and indicates that one or more of the wireless devices are on. Wireless (disconnected) Identifies the Wireless Assistant software on the computer and indicates that all of the wireless devices are off.
NOTE: On some models, the wireless light is amber when all wireless devices are off. 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 Wireless Assistant software (select models only).
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a connection or network, connect to a network, manage wireless networks, and diagnose and repair network problems. To access the Network and Sharing Center, select Start > Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center. For more information, select Start > Help and Support. Using wireless devices...
Using a WLAN With a WLAN device, you can access a wireless local area network (WLAN), which is composed of other devices and accessories that are linked by a wireless router or a wireless access point. NOTE: The terms wireless router and wireless access point are often used interchangeably. ●...
When you set up a WLAN or access an existing WLAN, always enable security features to protect your network from unauthorized access. The common security levels are Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA)- Personal and Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP). Because wireless radio signals travel outside the network, other WLAN devices can pick up unprotected signals and either connect to your network (uninvited) or capture information being sent across it.
After the connection is made, place the mouse pointer over the network icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar, to verify the name and status of the connection. NOTE: The functional range (how far your wireless signals travel) depends on WLAN implementation, router manufacturer, and interference from other electronic devices or structural barriers such as walls and floors.
Using HP Mobile Broadband (select models only) HP Mobile Broadband enables your computer to use wireless wide area networks (WWANs) to access the Internet from more places and over larger areas than it can by using WLANs. Using HP Mobile Broadband requires a network service provider (called a mobile network operator), which in most cases is a mobile phone network operator.
CAUTION: When inserting a SIM, position the card with the slanted corner as shown in the illustration. If a SIM is inserted backwards or upside down, the battery may not snap into place properly and could damage the SIM and the SIM connector. To prevent damage to the connectors, use minimal force when inserting a SIM.
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Press in on the SIM (1), and then remove it from the slot (2). Replace the battery. Reconnect external power. Reconnect external devices. Turn on the computer. Using HP Mobile Broadband (select models only)
Using Bluetooth wireless devices A Bluetooth device provides short-range wireless communications that replace the physical cable connections that traditionally link electronic devices such as the following: ● Computers (desktop, notebook, PDA) ● Phones (cellular, cordless, smart phone) ● Imaging devices (printer, camera) ●...
Troubleshooting wireless connection problems Some possible causes for wireless connection problems include the following: ● Network configuration (SSID or security) has been changed. ● Wireless device is not installed correctly or has been disabled. ● Wireless device or router hardware has failed. ●...
Cannot connect to a preferred WLAN network Windows can automatically repair a corrupted WLAN connection: ● If there is a network icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar, right-click the icon, and then click Troubleshoot problems. Windows resets your network device and attempts to reconnect to one of the preferred networks.
If you are provided with new wireless network keys and SSID for a network, and if you have previously connected to that network, follow the steps below to connect to the network: Select Start > Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center. Click Manage wireless networks in the left panel.
Connecting to a local area network (LAN) Connecting to a local area network (LAN) requires an 8-pin, RJ-45 network cable (purchased separately). If the network cable contains noise suppression circuitry (1), which prevents interference from TV and radio reception, orient the circuitry end of the cable (2) toward the computer. To connect the network cable: WARNING! To reduce the risk of electric shock, fire, or damage to the equipment, do not plug a modem...
Multimedia Multimedia features Your computer includes multimedia features that allow you to listen to music, watch movies, and view pictures. Your computer may include the following multimedia components: ● Integrated speakers for listening to music ● Integrated microphone for recording your own audio ●...
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Component Description Webcam light On: The webcam is in use. Webcam Captures still photographs and videos. NOTE: To capture videos, you must install additional webcam software. Internal microphone Records sound. Audio-out (headphone) jack/Audio-in Produces sound when connected to optional powered stereo (microphone) jack speakers, headphones, earbuds, a headset, or television audio.
Component Description Volume down hotkey Decreases speaker sound when pressed in combination with key. Volume up hotkey Increases speaker sound when pressed in combination with key. Adjusting the volume You can adjust the volume using the following controls: ● Computer volume hotkey—A combination of the fn key (1) and either the (2), (3), or function key:...
If the Speakers icon is not displayed in the notification area, follow these steps to add it: Right-click the Show hidden icons icon (the arrow at the left side of the notification area). Click Customize notification icons. Under Behaviors, select Show icon and notifications for the Volume icon. Click OK.
Audio Your computer has a variety of audio features that allow you to: ● Play music using your computer speakers and/or connected external speakers. ● Record sound using the internal microphone or an optional external headset microphone. ● Download music from the Internet. ●...
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NOTE: For best results when recording, speak directly into the microphone and record sound in a setting free of background noise. To confirm or change the audio settings on your computer, select Start > Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > Sound. Chapter 3 Multimedia...
Video Your computer enables you to use a variety of video features: ● Watch movies ● Play games over the Internet ● Edit pictures and video to create presentations ● Connect external video devices Connecting an external monitor or projector Use a VGA cable (purchased separately) to connect an external display, such as a monitor or projector, to the external monitor port on the computer.
To connect a video or audio device to the HDMI port: Connect one end of the HDMI cable to the HDMI port on the computer. Connect the other end of the cable to the video device, according to the device manufacturer’s instructions.
Webcam Your computer includes an integrated webcam, located at the top of the display. The webcam is an input device that allows you to capture and share video. To access the webcam: Select Start > All programs > ArcSoft WebCam Companion 3 > WebCam Companion 3. Click Capture >...
Drives and external devices Drives Identifying installed drives Your computer includes a hard drive (with a rotating disc) or a solid state-drive (SSD) with solid-state memory. Because an SSD has no moving parts, it does not generate as much heat as a hard drive. To view the drives installed on the computer, select Start >...
CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to the computer, damage to a drive, or loss of information, observe these precautions: Before you move a computer that is connected to an external hard drive, initiate Sleep and allow the screen to clear, or properly disconnect the external hard drive. Before handling a drive, discharge static electricity by touching the unpainted metal surface of the drive.
Using Disk Cleanup Disk Cleanup searches the hard drive for unnecessary files that you can safely delete to free up disk space and help the computer to run more efficiently. To run Disk Cleanup: Select Start > All Programs > Accessories > System Tools > Disk Cleanup. Follow the on-screen instructions.
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Pull the hard drive tab (2) up and lift the hard drive (3) out of the hard drive bay. To install a hard drive: Grasp the hard drive tab (1) and insert the hard drive (2) into the hard drive bay, until the rubber stops slide into place.
Tighten the 2 hard drive cover screws (2). Using external drives Removable external drives expand your options for storing and accessing information. USB drives include the following types: ● 1.44-megabyte diskette drive ● Hard drive module (a hard drive with an adapter attached) ●...
Connecting optional external drives NOTE: For more information about required software and drivers, or to learn which computer port to use, refer to the manufacturer's instructions. To connect an external drive to the computer: CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to the equipment when connecting a powered drive, be sure that the drive is turned off and the AC power cord is unplugged.
External devices Using a USB device Universal Serial Bus (USB) is a hardware interface that can be used to connect an optional external device, such as a USB keyboard, mouse, drive, printer, scanner, or hub. Devices can be connected to the system, an optional docking device, or an optional expansion product.
To remove a USB device: Click the Safely Remove Hardware and Eject Media icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar. NOTE: To display the Safely Remove Hardware and Eject Media icon, click the Show hidden icons icon (the arrow at the left of in the notification area).
Insert the card into the Digital Media Slot, and then push in on the card until it is firmly seated. You will hear a sound when the device has been detected, and a menu of options may be displayed. Removing a digital card CAUTION: To prevent loss of data or an unresponsive system, use the following procedure to safely remove the digital card.
Memory modules The computer has one memory module slot, which is located inside the hard drive bay. The memory capacity of the computer can be upgraded by replacing the existing memory module. WARNING! To reduce the risk of electric shock and damage to the equipment, unplug the power cord and remove all batteries before installing a memory module.
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Lift the hard drive cover (2) away from the computer. Remove the existing memory module: Pull away the retention clips (1) on each side of the memory module. The memory module tilts up. CAUTION: To prevent damage to the memory module, hold the memory module by the edges only.
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Insert a new memory module: 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, and do not bend the memory module. Align the notched edge (1) of the memory module with the tab in the memory module slot. With the memory module at a 45-degree angle from the surface of the hard drive bay, press the module (2) into the memory module slot until it is seated.
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Tighten the 2 hard drive cover screws (3). Replace the battery. Turn the computer right-side up, and then reconnect external power and external devices. Turn on the computer. Chapter 5 Memory modules...
Pointing devices and keyboard Setting pointing device preferences To access Mouse Properties, select Start > Devices and Printers. Then, right-click the device representing your computer, and select Mouse. Use Mouse Properties in Windows® to customize settings for pointing devices, such as button configuration, click speed, and pointer options.
Function Hotkey Initiate Sleep. fn+f1 Switch the image. fn+f2 Decrease screen brightness. fn+f3 Increase screen brightness. fn+f4 Initiate QuickLock. fn+f6 Mute or restore speaker sound. fn+f8 Decrease device volume. fn+f10 Increase device volume. fn+f11 To use a hotkey command on the device keyboard, follow either of these steps: ●...
When Sleep is initiated, your information is stored in memory, the screen is cleared, and power is conserved. While the device is in the Sleep state, the power light blinks. The device must be on before you can initiate Sleep. CAUTION: If a critical battery level occurs while the device is in the Sleep state, the device initiates Hibernation and the information stored in memory is saved to the hard drive.
NOTE: Before you can use QuickLock, you must set a Windows user password or a Windows administrator password. For instructions, refer to Help and Support. To use QuickLock, press fn+f6 to display the Log On window and lock the computer. Then follow the instructions on the screen to enter your Windows user password or your Windows administrator password and access the computer.
Power management Setting power options Using power-saving states The computer has two power-saving states enabled at the factory: Sleep and Hibernation. When Sleep is initiated, the power lights blink and the screen clears. Your work is saved to memory, letting you exit Sleep faster than exiting Hibernation. If the computer is in the Sleep state for an extended period or if the battery reaches a critical battery level while in the Sleep state, the computer initiates Hibernation.
● Press a key on the keyboard or button on the remote control (select models only). ● Activate the TouchPad. When the computer exits Sleep, the power light turns on and your work returns to the screen where you stopped working. NOTE: If you have set a password to be required on wakeup, you must enter your Windows password before your work will return to the screen.
Using power plans A power plan is a collection of system settings that manages how the computer uses power. Power plans can help you conserve power or maximize performance. You can change power plan settings or create your own power plan. Viewing the current power plan Click the battery meter icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar.
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. ● Approved AC adapter ● Optional docking device or expansion product Connect the computer to external AC power under any of the following conditions: WARNING! Do not charge the computer battery while you are onboard aircraft.
Plug the other end of the power cord into an AC outlet (3). Testing an AC adapter Test the AC adapter if the computer exhibits any of the following symptoms when it is connected to AC power: ● The computer will not turn on. ●...
WARNING! To reduce potential safety issues, use only the battery provided with the computer, a replacement battery provided by HP, or a compatible battery purchased from HP. Computer battery life varies, depending on power management settings, programs running on the computer, display brightness, external devices connected to the computer, and other factors.
Align the tabs on the battery with the notches on the computer (1), and then insert the battery into the battery bay. The battery release latches (2) automatically lock the battery into place. To remove the battery: Turn the computer upside down on a flat surface. Slide the battery release latches (1) to release the battery, and then remove the battery (2).
The battery charges whether the computer is off or in use, but it charges faster when the computer is off. Charging may take longer if a battery is new, has been unused for 2 weeks or more, or is much warmer or cooler than room temperature.
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The computer takes the following actions for a critical battery level: ● If Hibernation is enabled and the computer is on or in the Sleep state, the computer initiates Hibernation. ● If Hibernation is disabled and the computer is on or in the Sleep state, the computer remains briefly in the Sleep state, and then shuts down and loses any unsaved information.
Resolving a low battery level CAUTION: To reduce the risk of losing information when the computer reaches a critical battery level and has initiated Hibernation, do not restore power until the power lights turn off. Resolving a low battery level when external power is available Connect one of the following devices: ▲...
To fully charge the battery: Insert the battery into the computer. Connect the computer to an AC adapter, optional power adapter, optional expansion product, or optional docking device, and then plug the adapter or device into external power. The battery light on the computer turns on. Leave the computer plugged into external power until the battery is fully charged.
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To discharge a battery: Unplug the computer from its external power source, but do not turn off the computer. Run the computer on battery power until the battery is discharged. The battery light begins to blink when the battery has discharged to a low battery level. When the battery is discharged, the battery light turns off and the computer shuts down.
Step 4: Fully recharge the battery To recharge the battery: Plug the computer into external power and maintain external power until the battery is fully recharged. When the battery is recharged, the battery light on the computer turns off. You can use the computer while the battery is recharging, but the battery will charge faster if the computer is off.
If a computer will be unused and unplugged from external power for more than 2 weeks, remove the battery and store it separately. To prolong the charge of a stored battery, place it in a cool, dry place. Calibrate a battery before using it if it has been stored for one month or more. Disposing of a used battery WARNING! To reduce the risk of fire or burns, do not disassemble, crush, or puncture;...
Security Protecting the computer Standard security features provided by the Windows operating system and the non-Windows Setup Utility can protect your personal settings and data from a variety of risks. Follow the procedures in this chapter to use the following features: ●...
You can use the same password for a Setup Utility feature and for a Windows security feature. You can also use the same password for more than one Setup Utility feature. Use the following guidelines when setting a password in Setup Utility: ●...
Password Function ● Power-on password* Protects access to the computer contents. ● After this password is set, it must be entered each time you turn on or restart the computer, or exit Hibernation. CAUTION: If you forget your power-on password, you cannot turn on or restart the computer, or exit Hibernation.
Managing a power-on password To set, change, or delete this password, follow these steps: Open Setup Utility by turning on or restarting the computer, and then pressing while the “F10 = BIOS Setup Options” message is displayed in the lower-left corner of the screen. Use the arrow keys to select Security >...
Using antivirus software When you use the computer for e-mail or Internet access, you expose it to computer viruses that can disable the operating system, programs, or utilities or cause them to function abnormally. NOTE: HP recommends that you install antivirus software to help protect your computer. Antivirus software can detect most viruses, destroy them, and in most cases, repair damage they have caused.
Using firewall software When you use the computer for e-mail, network, or Internet access, unauthorized persons may be able to gain access to the computer, your personal files, and information about you. Use the firewall software preinstalled on the computer to protect your privacy. Firewall features include logging and reporting of network activity, and automatic monitoring of all incoming and outgoing traffic.
Installing critical updates CAUTION: Microsoft sends alerts regarding critical updates. To protect the computer from security breaches and computer viruses, install all critical updates from Microsoft as soon as you receive an alert. Updates to the operating system and other software may have become available after the computer was shipped.
Software updates Updated versions of the software provided with your computer may be available on the HP Web site. Most software and BIOS updates on the HP Web site are packaged in compressed files called SoftPaqs. Some download packages contain a file named Readme.txt, which contains information regarding installing and troubleshooting the file.
Updating the BIOS To update the BIOS, first determine what BIOS version you currently have and then download and install the new BIOS. 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.
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Make a note of the path to the location on your hard drive where the BIOS update is to be downloaded. You must access this path when you are ready to install the update. NOTE: If you connect your computer to a network, consult the network administrator before installing any software updates, especially system BIOS updates.
Updating programs and drivers To download and install software other than a BIOS update, follow these steps: Access the page on the HP Web site that provides software for your computer: Select Start > Help and Support, and then select the software and drivers update. Follow the instructions on the screen to find the software you want to update.
10 Setup Utility Starting Setup Utility Setup Utility is a ROM-based information and customization utility that can be used even when your Windows operating system is not working. The utility reports information about the computer and provides settings for startup, security, and other preferences.
● To select an item, press enter. ● To close a text box or return to the menu display, press esc. ● To display additional navigation and selection information while Setup Utility is open, press f1. Displaying system information The following procedure explains how to display system information in Setup Utility. If Setup Utility is not open, begin at step 1.
Setup Utility menus The menu tables in this section provide an overview of Setup Utility options. NOTE: Some of the Setup Utility menu items listed in this chapter may not be supported by your computer. Main menu Select To do this System information ●...
Select To do this NOTE: Only the devices attached to the system appear in the boot order menu. Diagnostics menu Select To do this Hard Disk Self Test (select models only) Run a comprehensive self-test on the hard drive. Memory Test Run a diagnostic test on the system memory.
Index BIOS, updating 75 digital card AC adapter Blu-ray Disc ROM with SuperMulti inserting 43 connecting 56 DVD±R/RW Double Layer 40 removing 44 identifying 10 Bluetooth device 12 stopping 44 testing 57 boot options 80 supported formats 43 administrator password boot order 80 Digital Media Slot, identifying 5 creating 69...
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switching screen image 51 power 2 firewall 17 using 50 webcam 7 fn key 4, 49 HP Connection Manager wireless 2 function keys 4, 49 software 14 local area network (LAN) HP Mobile Broadband cable required 26 Module 19 connecting cable 26 hard disk drive HP USB Ethernet Adapter, low battery level 60...
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operating system 66 screen brightness hotkeys 51 unresponsive system 66 optical drive screen image, switching 51 USB cable, connecting 42 sharing 41 security cable slot, identifying 6 USB devices Security menu 80 connecting 42 security, wireless 16 description 42 passwords selecting in Setup Utility 78 removing 42 administrator 69...