HP Notebook Reference Manual

Notebook
Hide thumbs Also See for Notebook:
Table of Contents

Advertisement

Meijer.com
HP Notebook
Reference Guide

Advertisement

Table of Contents
loading

Summary of Contents for HP Notebook

  • Page 1 Meijer.com HP Notebook Reference Guide...
  • Page 2 Sun Microsystems, Inc. The information contained herein is subject to change without notice. The only warranties for HP products and services are set forth in the express warranty statements accompanying such products and services. Nothing herein should be construed as constituting an additional warranty.
  • Page 3 Meijer.com 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 Meijer.com Safety warning notice...
  • Page 5: Table Of Contents

    Creating a wireless connection ......................2 Identifying wireless and network status icons ..............2 Turning wireless devices on or off ..................3 Using HP Connection Manager (select models only) ............3 Using operating system controls ..................4 Using a WLAN (select models only) ..................... 4 Connecting to an existing WLAN ..................
  • Page 6 Selecting a different power plan ................ 20 Customizing power plans .................. 21 Setting password protection on wakeup ................21 Using HP Power Manager (select models only) ................. 21 Using battery power ........................... 22 Finding battery information ....................22 Using Battery Check ......................22 Displaying the remaining battery charge ................
  • Page 7 Improving hard drive performance ..................37 Using Disk Defragmenter .................. 37 Using Disk Cleanup ................... 37 Using HP 3D DriveGuard (select models only) ..............37 Identifying HP 3D DriveGuard status ..............38 Managing power with a parked hard drive ............38 Using HP 3D DriveGuard software ..............
  • Page 8 Meijer.com Inserting an optical disc ..................... 39 Tray load ......................39 Slot load ......................40 Removing an optical disc ....................40 Tray load ......................40 When the disc tray opens normally ..........41 When the disc tray fails to open normally ......... 41 Slot load ......................
  • Page 9 Meijer.com Displaying system information ................... 53 Restoring factory settings in Setup Utility (BIOS) .............. 53 Exiting Setup Utility (BIOS) ....................54 Updating the BIOS ......................54 Determining the BIOS version ................54 Downloading a BIOS update ................55 Using System Diagnostics ........................56 Appendix A Traveling with the computer ......................
  • Page 10 Meijer.com...
  • Page 11: Introduction

    ● HP Help and Support—Includes links to HP Documentation and HP programs, such as HP Support Assistant and HP Launch Box. To access HP Help and Support, select Start > Help and Support. ●...
  • Page 12: Networking (Select Models Only)

    Icon Name Description HP Connection Manager Opens HP Connection Manager, which enables you to create and manage WLAN, WWAN (select models only), and Bluetooth connections. Wired network (connected) Indicates that one or more network devices are connected to the network.
  • Page 13: Turning Wireless Devices On Or Off

    Indicates that no wireless connections are available. disconnected) Turning wireless devices on or off You can use the wireless button or HP Connection Manager (select models only) to turn on and turn off wireless devices. NOTE: A computer may have a wireless button, a wireless switch, or a wireless key on the keyboard.
  • Page 14: Using Operating System Controls

    Meijer.com Using operating system controls The Network and Sharing Center allows you to set up a connection or network, connect to a network, manage wireless networks, and diagnose and repair network problems. To use operating system controls: ▲ Select Start > Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center. For more information, select Start >...
  • Page 15: Protecting Your Wlan

    Wi-Fi Protected Access II (WPA2) ◦ Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) NOTE: HP recommends that you select WPA2, which is the most advanced of the three encryption protocols. The use of WEP encryption is not recommended, because it can be overcome with little effort. ●...
  • Page 16: Roaming To Another Network

    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, which in most cases is a mobile phone network provider.
  • Page 17: Removing A Sim

    Using GPS (select models only) Your computer may be equipped with a Global Positioning System (GPS). GPS satellites deliver location, speed, and direction information to GPS-equipped systems. For more information, refer to the HP GPS and Location software Help. Using GPS (select models only)
  • Page 18: Using Bluetooth Wireless Devices (Select Models Only)

    Bluetooth and Internet Connection Sharing (ICS) HP does not recommend setting up one computer with Bluetooth as a host and using it as a gateway through which other computers may connect to the Internet. When two or more computers are...
  • Page 19: Connecting A Modem Cable

    Meijer.com Connecting a modem cable Plug the modem cable into the modem jack (1) on the computer. Plug the modem cable into the RJ-11 telephone wall jack (2). Connecting a country- or region-specific modem cable adapter Telephone jacks vary by country or region. To use the modem and the modem cable outside the country or region in which you purchased the computer, you must obtain a country- or region-specific modem cable adapter.
  • Page 20: Selecting A Location Setting

    Meijer.com Plug the modem cable adapter (3) into the telephone wall jack. Selecting a location setting Viewing the current location selection To view the current location: Select Start > Control Panel. Click Clock, Language, and Region. Click Region and Language. Click the Location tab to display your location.
  • Page 21: Connecting To A Local Area Network (Lan) (Select Models Only)

    Meijer.com To add a new location: Select Start > Devices and Printers. Right-click the device that represents your computer, and click Modem settings. NOTE: You must set up an initial (current) location area code before you can view the Dialing Rules tab.
  • Page 22 Meijer.com Plug the other end of the network cable into a network wall jack (2) or router. WARNING! To reduce the risk of electric shock, fire, or damage to the equipment, do not plug a modem cable or telephone cable into an RJ-45 (network) jack. Chapter 2 Networking (select models only)
  • Page 23: Multimedia

    Meijer.com Multimedia Your computer may include the following: ● One or two integrated speakers ● One or two integrated microphones ● Integrated webcam ● Preinstalled multimedia software ● Multimedia buttons or keys Using the media activity controls Depending on your computer model, you may have the following media activity controls that allow you to play, pause, fast forward, or rewind a media file: ●...
  • Page 24: Adjusting The Volume

    Meijer.com Adjusting the volume Depending on your computer model, you can adjust the volume using the following: ● Volume buttons ● Volume hotkeys (specific keys pressed in combination with the key) ● Volume keys WARNING! To reduce the risk of personal injury, adjust the volume before putting on headphones, earbuds, or a headset.
  • Page 25: Video

    Meijer.com For information on how to access the webcam, refer to the Getting Started guide. For information on using the webcam, select Start > Help and Support. Video Your computer may have one or more of the following external video ports: ●...
  • Page 26: Hdmi

    Meijer.com ▲ To connect a digital display device, connect the device cable to the DisplayPort. NOTE: For product-specific instructions on switching the screen image, refer to your Getting Started guide. HDMI The HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) port connects the computer to an optional video or audio device, such as a high-definition television, or to any compatible digital or audio component.
  • Page 27: Configuring Audio For Hdmi

    Meijer.com NOTE: For product-specific instructions on switching the screen image, refer to your Getting Started guide. Configuring audio for HDMI To configure HDMI audio, first connect an audio or video device, such as a high-definition TV, to the HDMI port on your computer. Then configure the default audio playback device as follows: Right-click the Speakers icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar, and then click Playback devices.
  • Page 28: Power Management

    Meijer.com Power management NOTE: A computer may have a power button or a power switch. The term power button is used throughout this guide to refer to both types of power controls. Shutting down the computer CAUTION: Unsaved information is lost when the computer shuts down. The Shut down command closes all open programs, including the operating system, and then turns off the display and computer.
  • Page 29: Setting Power Options

    Meijer.com Setting power options Using power-saving states The computer has two power-saving states that are 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.
  • Page 30: Using The Power Meter

    Meijer.com To initiate Hibernation: ▲ Select Start, click the arrow next to the Shut down button, and then click Hibernate. To exit Hibernation: ▲ Briefly press the power button. The power lights turn 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.
  • Page 31: Customizing Power Plans

    The following power plans are available: ● Power saver ● HP Recommended ● High performance To start Power Manager when Windows is running: ▲ Select Start > Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > HP Power Manager. Using HP Power Manager (select models only)
  • Page 32: Using Battery Power

    WARNING! To reduce potential safety issues, use only the battery provided with the computer, a replacement battery provided by HP, or a compatible battery purchased from HP. Computer battery life varies, depending on power management settings, programs running on the computer, display brightness, external devices connected to the computer, and other factors.
  • Page 33: Displaying The Remaining Battery Charge

    Meijer.com Displaying the remaining battery charge ▲ Move the pointer over the power meter icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar. Maximizing battery discharge time Battery discharge time varies depending on the features you use while on battery power. Maximum discharge time gradually decreases as the battery storage capacity naturally degrades.
  • Page 34: Resolving A Low Battery Level

    ● Optional docking or expansion device ● Optional power adapter purchased as an accessory from HP Resolving a low battery level when a charged battery is available Turn off the computer or initiate Hibernation. Replace the discharged battery with a charged battery.
  • Page 35: Disposing Of A Used Battery

    If the battery is possibly covered by an HP warranty, instructions include a warranty ID. A message refers you to the HP Web site for more information about ordering a replacement battery.
  • Page 36: Testing An Ac Adapter

    When HP CoolSense is on, it automatically detects if your computer is not in a stationary position and makes further adjustments to performance and fan settings to keep the surface temperature of your computer at the optimum level of comfort.
  • Page 37: External Cards And Devices

    Meijer.com External cards and devices Using Digital Media Slot cards (select models only) Optional digital cards provide secure data storage and convenient data sharing. These cards are often used with digital media–equipped cameras and PDAs as well as with other computers. To determine the digital card formats that are supported on your computer, refer to the Getting Started guide.
  • Page 38: Removing A Digital Card

    Meijer.com Removing a digital card CAUTION: To reduce the risk of loss of data or an unresponsive system, use the following procedure to safely remove the digital card. Save your information and close all programs associated with the digital card. Click the remove hardware icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar.
  • Page 39: Removing An Expresscard

    Meijer.com Pull the insert out of the slot (2). To insert an ExpressCard: Hold the card label-side up, with the connectors facing the computer. Insert the card into the ExpressCard slot, and then press in on the card until it is firmly seated. You will hear a sound when the card has been detected, and a menu of options may be displayed.
  • Page 40: Using Smart Cards (Select Models Only)

    Meijer.com Using smart cards (select models only) NOTE: The term smart card is used throughout this chapter to refer to both smart cards and Java™ Cards. A smart card is a credit card-sized accessory that carries a microchip containing memory and a microprocessor.
  • Page 41: Removing A Smart Card

    Meijer.com Removing a smart card ▲ Grasp the edge of the smart card, and then pull it out of the smart card reader. 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.
  • Page 42: Removing A Usb Device

    Meijer.com 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. Removing a USB device CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to a USB connector, do not pull on the cable to remove the USB device.
  • Page 43: Removing A 1394 Device

    Meijer.com Removing a 1394 device CAUTION: To reduce the risk of loss of information or an unresponsive system, stop the 1394 device before removing it. CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to a 1394 connector, do not pull on the cable to remove the 1394 device.
  • Page 44: Removing An Esata Device

    USB port on the computer. NOTE: HP external USB optical drives should be connected to the powered USB port (select models only) on the computer. USB drives include the following types: ●...
  • Page 45 Meijer.com Using optional external devices...
  • Page 46: Drives

    Meijer.com Drives Handling drives Drives are fragile computer components that must be handled with care. Refer to the following cautions before handling drives. Additional cautions are included with the procedures to which they apply. 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.
  • Page 47: Using Hard Drives

    Select Start > All Programs > Accessories > System Tools > Disk Cleanup. Follow the on-screen instructions. Using HP 3D DriveGuard (select models only) HP 3D DriveGuard protects a hard drive by parking the drive and halting data requests under either of the following conditions: ●...
  • Page 48: Identifying Hp 3D Driveguard Status

    Meijer.com A short time after the end of one of these events, HP 3D DriveGuard returns the hard drive to normal operation. NOTE: Because solid-state drives (SSD) lack moving parts, HP 3D DriveGuard is unnecessary. NOTE: Hard drives in the primary hard drive bay or in the secondary hard drive bay (select models only) are protected by HP 3D DriveGuard.
  • Page 49: Using Optical Drives (Select Models Only)

    Meijer.com To open the software and change settings, follow these steps: In Mobility Center, click the hard drive icon to open the HP 3D DriveGuard window. – or – Select Start > Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > HP 3D DriveGuard.
  • Page 50: Slot Load

    Meijer.com Gently press the disc (3) down onto the tray spindle until the disc snaps into place. 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.
  • Page 51: When The Disc Tray Opens Normally

    Meijer.com When the disc tray opens normally Press the release button (1) on the drive bezel to release the disc tray, and then gently pull out the tray (2) until it stops. Remove the disc (3) from the tray by gently pressing down on the spindle while lifting the outer edges of the disc.
  • Page 52: Slot Load

    Meijer.com 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 53: Sharing Optical Drives

    If multiple disks are set up to work together in this fashion, they are referred to as a RAID array. For additional information about RAID, refer to the HP Web site at http://www.hp.com/support. Using RAID (select models only)
  • Page 54: Security

    Meijer.com Security Protecting the computer Standard security features provided by the Windows® operating system and the non-Windows Setup Utility (BIOS) can protect your personal settings and data from a variety of risks. NOTE: Security solutions are designed to act as deterrents, but they may not deter software attacks or prevent the computer from being mishandled or stolen.
  • Page 55: Setting Passwords In Windows

    Meijer.com NOTE: To reduce the risk of being locked out of the computer, record each password and store it in a secure place. You can use the same password for a Setup Utility (BIOS) feature and for a Windows security feature.
  • Page 56: Managing An Administrator Password

    Meijer.com 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.
  • Page 57: Managing A Power-On Password

    Meijer.com Managing a power-on password To set, change, or delete this password, follow these steps: Open Setup Utility (BIOS) by turning on or restarting the computer. While the “Press the ESC key for Startup Menu” message is displayed in the lower-left corner of the screen, press esc. When the Startup Menu is displayed, press f10.
  • Page 58: Installing Critical Security Updates

    Meijer.com There are two types of firewalls to consider: ● Host-based firewalls—Software that protects only the computer it is installed on. ● Network-based firewalls—Installed between your DSL or cable modem and your home network to protect all the computers on the network. When a firewall is installed on a system, all data sent to and from the system is monitored and compared with a set of user-defined security criteria.
  • Page 59: Using The Fingerprint Reader (Select Models Only)

    Meijer.com Insert the cable lock into the security cable slot on the computer (3), and then lock the cable lock with the key. Remove the key and keep it in a safe place. Using the fingerprint reader (select models only) Integrated fingerprint readers are available on select computer models.
  • Page 60: Maintenance

    A can of compressed air with a straw extension can be used to blow air around and under the keys to loosen and remove debris. Updating programs and drivers HP recommends that you update your programs and drivers on a regular basis with the latest versions. Go to http://www.hp.com/support to download the latest versions.
  • Page 61: Using Softpaq Download Manager

    SoftPaq Download Manager is available on the HP Web site. To use SoftPaq Download Manager to download SoftPaqs, you must first download and install the program. Go to the HP Web site at http://www.hp.com/go/sdm, and follow the instructions to download and install SoftPaq Download Manager.
  • Page 62: Setup Utility (Bios) And System Diagnostics

    Meijer.com Setup Utility (BIOS) and System Diagnostics Using Setup Utility (BIOS) 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.
  • Page 63: Navigating And Selecting In Setup Utility (Bios)

    Meijer.com Navigating and selecting in Setup Utility (BIOS) To navigate and select in Setup Utility (BIOS), follow these steps: Turn on or restart the computer, and then press while the “Press the ESC key for Startup Menu” message is displayed at the bottom of the screen. Press to enter Setup Utility (BIOS).
  • Page 64: Exiting Setup Utility (Bios)

    Updated versions of the BIOS may be available on the HP Web site. Most BIOS updates on the HP Web site are packaged in compressed files called SoftPaqs. Some download packages contain a file named Readme.txt, which contains information regarding installing and troubleshooting the file.
  • Page 65: Downloading A Bios Update

    Meijer.com 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 66: Using System Diagnostics

    Battery test—This test analyzes the condition of the battery. If the battery fails the test, contact HP Customer Support to report the issue and purchase a replacement battery. You can also view system information and error logs in the System Diagnostics window.
  • Page 67: Appendix A Traveling With The Computer

    “FRAGILE.” ● If the computer has a wireless device or an HP Mobile Broadband Module installed, such as an 802.11b/g device, a Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) device, or a General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) device, the use of these devices may be restricted in some...
  • Page 68 Meijer.com hazardous locations. If you are uncertain of the policy that applies to the use of a particular device, ask for authorization to use it before you turn it on. ● If you are traveling internationally, follow these suggestions: ◦ Check the computer-related customs regulations for each country or region on your itinerary.
  • Page 69: Appendix B Troubleshooting Resources

    Internet connection. ● Contact HP Customer Support at http://www.hp.com/go/contactHP. NOTE: For worldwide support, click Contact HP worldwide on the left side of the page, or go to http://welcome.hp.com/country/us/en/wwcontact_us.html. Choose from the following types of support: ◦...
  • Page 70: Appendix C Electrostatic Discharge

    Before handling components, discharge static electricity by touching an unpainted metal surface of the component. ● If you remove a component, place it in an electrostatic-safe container. If you need more information about static electricity or assistance with component removal or installation, contact HP Customer Support. Appendix C Electrostatic Discharge...
  • Page 71: Index

    Meijer.com Index Symbols/Numerics buttons optical 34 1394 cable, connecting 32 media 13 using 37 1394 devices power 18 volume 14 connecting 32 electrostatic discharge 60 defined 32 entering a power-on password removing 33 cables 1394 32 entering an administrator AC adapter, testing 26 eSATA 33 password 46 action keys...
  • Page 72 HP Connection Manager 3 selecting a location setting 10 readable media 19 HP CoolSense 26 roaming to another network 6 HP Mobile Broadband Module 6 network cable, connecting 11 HP USB Ethernet Adapter, network icon 2 connecting 11 security cable, installing 48...
  • Page 73 Meijer.com Disk Defragmenter 37 wireless encryption 5 HP 3D DriveGuard 38 wireless network (WLAN) HP Connection Manager 3 connecting to existing 4 storing a battery 24 equipment needed 4 switch, power 18 security 5 system information, displaying 53 writable media 19...
  • Page 74 Meijer.com...

This manual is also suitable for:

Envy 14-3100Envy 15-3200Envy 17-3200Envy 14-3000

Table of Contents