Page 3 - Safety warning notice
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 ona hard, flat surface. Do not allow another hard surface, such as an adjoining o...
Page 5 - Table of contents
Table of contents 1 Starting right ................................................................................................................................................... 1 Best practices .......................................................................................................
Page 11 - Starting right; Best practices; Fun things to do
1 Starting right This computer is a powerful tool designed to enhance your work and entertainment. Read thischapter to learn about best practices after you set up your computer, fun things to do with yourcomputer, and where to find additional HP resources. Best practices To get the most out of your ...
Page 12 - More HP resources
More HP resources You have already used Setup Instructions to turn on the computer and locate this guide. To locate resources that provide product details, how-to information, and more, use this table. Resource Contents Setup Instructions ● Overview of computer setup and features Windows 8 Basics gu...
Page 14 - Getting to know your computer; Finding your hardware and software information; Locating hardware; Locating software
2 Getting to know your computer Finding your hardware and software information Locating hardware To find out what hardware is installed on your computer: 1. From the Start screen, type c , and then select Control Panel . 2. Select System and Security , and then in the System area, click Device Manag...
Page 16 - Left side
Left side Component Description (1) 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 beingmishandled or stolen. (2) External monitor port Connects an external VGA monitor or p...
Page 18 - Top; TouchPad
Top TouchPad Component Description (1) TouchPad zone Moves the on-screen pointer and selects or activates itemson the screen. NOTE: The TouchPad also supports edge-swipe gestures. For more information, see Edge swipes on page 30 . (2) Left TouchPad button Functions like the left button on an externa...
Page 19 - Lights
Lights Component Description (1) Power light ● On: The computer is on. ● Blinking: The computer is in the Sleep state, a power-saving state. The computer shuts off power to thedisplay and other unneeded components. ● Off: The computer is off or in Hibernation. Hibernationis a power-saving state that...
Page 20 - Buttons and speakers
Buttons and speakers Component Description (1) Power button ● When the computer is off, press the button to turn onthe computer. ● When the computer is on, press the button briefly toinitiate Sleep. ● When the computer is in the Sleep state, press thebutton briefly to exit Sleep. ● When the computer...
Page 21 - Keys
Keys Component Description (1) esc key Reveals system information when pressed in combinationwith the fn key. (2) fn key Executes frequently used system functions when pressedin combination with the esc key. (3) Windows key Returns you to the Start screen from an open app or theWindows desktop. NOTE...
Page 22 - Bottom
Bottom Component Description (1) Service door Provides access to the hard drive bay, the wirelessLAN (WLAN) module slot, and the memory moduleslot. CAUTION: To prevent an unresponsive system, replace the wireless module only with a wirelessmodule authorized for use in the computer by thegovernmental...
Page 25 - Connecting to a network; Using the wireless controls; Using the wireless button
3 Connecting to a network Your computer can travel with you wherever you go. But even at home, you can explore the globeand access information from millions of websites using your computer and a wired or wirelessnetwork connection. This chapter will help you get connected to that world. Connecting t...
Page 26 - Sharing data and drives and accessing software
To use operating system controls: 1. From the Start screen, type n , and then select Settings . 2. Type network and sharing in the search box, and then select Network and Sharing Center . For more information, from the Start screen, type h , and then select Help and Support . Sharing data and drives...
Page 27 - Using an Internet service provider
NOTE: The terms wireless router and wireless access point are often used interchangeably. ● A large-scale WLAN, such as a corporate or public WLAN, typically uses wireless access pointsthat can accommodate a large number of computers and accessories and can separate criticalnetwork functions. ● A ho...
Page 29 - Using Bluetooth wireless devices (select models only); Connecting to a wired network
NOTE: The functional range (how far your wireless signals travel) depends on WLAN implementation, router manufacturer, and interference from other electronic devices or structuralbarriers such as walls and floors. Using Bluetooth wireless devices (select models only) A Bluetooth device provides shor...
Page 30 - Enjoying entertainment features; Multimedia features
4 Enjoying entertainment features Use your HP computer as an entertainment hub to socialize via the webcam, enjoy and manage yourmusic, and download and watch movies. Or, to make your computer an even more powerfulentertainment center, connect external devices like a monitor, projector, or TV, or sp...
Page 31 - Using audio; Connecting speakers
Component Description (6) Audio-out (headphone) jack/Audio-in(microphone) jack Connects optional powered stereo speakers,headphones, earbuds, a headset, or a televisionaudio cable. Also connects an optional headsetmicrophone. This jack does not support optionalmicrophone-only devices. WARNING! To re...
Page 32 - Connecting headphones; Connecting a microphone; Using video
To connect wireless speakers to your computer, follow the device manufacturer's instructions. To connect high-definition speakers to the computer, see Configuring HDMI audio settings on page 24 . Before connecting speakers, lower the volume setting. Connecting headphones You can connect wired headph...
Page 33 - Connecting a VGA monitor or projector
IMPORTANT: Be sure that the external device is connected to the correct port on the computer, using the correct cable. Check the device manufacturer's instructions. Connecting a VGA monitor or projector To see the computer screen image on an external VGA monitor or projected for a presentation,conne...
Page 34 - Connecting an HDMI device; Configuring HDMI audio settings
Connecting an HDMI device NOTE: To connect an HDMI device to your computer, you need an HDMI cable, sold separately. To see the computer screen image on a high-definition TV or monitor, connect the high-definitiondevice according to the following instructions. 1. Connect one end of the HDMI cable to...
Page 35 - Managing your audio and video files (select models only)
To return the audio stream to the computer speakers: 1. From the Windows desktop, right-click the Speakers icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar, and then click Playback devices . 2. On the Playback tab, click Speakers / HP . 3. Click Set Default , and then click OK . Managi...
Page 36 - Using the TouchPad
5 Navigating using touch gestures,pointing devices and the keyboard Your computer allows navigation using touch gestures in addition to the keyboard and mouse. Touchgestures can be used on your computer TouchPad or on a touch screen (select models only). NOTE: An external USB mouse (purchased separa...
Page 37 - Tapping; Scrolling
Tapping To make an on-screen selection, use the tap function on the TouchPad. ● Point to an item on the screen, and then tap one finger on the TouchPad zone to make aselection. Double-tap an item to open it. Scrolling Scrolling is useful for moving up, down, or sideways on a page or image. ● Place t...
Page 42 - Using touch screen gestures (select models only)
Using touch screen gestures (select models only) A touch screen computer allows you to control items on the screen directly with your fingers. TIP: On touch screen computers, you can perform the gestures on the screen or on the TouchPad. You can also perform on-screen actions with the keyboard and m...
Page 46 - Using the keyboard and mouse; Using the keys
Top-edge swipe and bottom-edge swipe The top-edge swipe or bottom-edge swipe allows you to open a list of apps available on yourcomputer. 1. From the Windows Start screen, gently swipe your finger from the top edge or the bottom edgeof the display onto the screen. 2. Tap All apps to view available a...
Page 47 - Using the action keys
Using the action keys An action key performs an assigned function. The icon on each of the f1 through f4 keys, and the f6 through f12 keys illustrates the assigned function for that key. To use an action key function, press and hold the key. The action key feature is enabled at the factory. You can ...
Page 48 - Using Microsoft Windows 8 shortcut keys; Using the hot keys
Using Microsoft Windows 8 shortcut keys Microsoft Windows 8 provides shortcuts to perform actions quickly. Press the Windows key in combination with a designated key in the table to perform the action. Shortcutkey Key Description Returns you to the Start screen from an open app or the Windowsdesktop...
Page 49 - Managing power; Initiating Sleep and Hibernation; Manually initiating and exiting Sleep
6 Managing power Your computer can operate on either battery power or external power. When the computer is runningon battery power only and an AC power source is not available to charge the battery, it is important tomonitor and conserve the battery charge. Your computer supports an optimal power pl...
Page 50 - Manually initiating and exiting Hibernation (select models only); Setting password protection on wakeup; Using the power meter and power settings; Running on battery power
Manually initiating and exiting Hibernation (select models only) You can enable user-initiated Hibernation and change other power settings and timeouts using PowerOptions. 1. From the Start screen, type power , select Settings , and then select Power Options from the list of applications. 2. In the ...
Page 52 - Conserving battery power; Identifying low battery levels; Resolving a low battery level; Resolving a low battery level when external power is available
Conserving battery power Tips for conserving battery power and maximizing battery life: ● Lower the brightness on the display. ● Select the Power saver setting in Power Options. ● Remove a user-replaceable battery from the computer if it will not be used or charged for morethan 2 weeks. ● Turn off w...
Page 53 - Replacing a user-replaceable battery; Running on external AC power
Resolving a low battery level when the computer cannot exit Hibernation When the computer lacks sufficient power to exit Hibernation, follow these steps: 1. Replace the discharged user-replaceable battery with a charged battery, or connect the ACadapter to the computer and to external power. 2. Exit...
Page 54 - Troubleshooting power problems
When you connect the computer to external AC power: ● The battery begins to charge. ● The display brightness increases. ● The power meter icon on the Windows desktop changes appearance. When you disconnect external AC power, the following events occur: ● The computer switches to battery power. ● The...
Page 56 - Managing and sharing information; Using a USB device; Connecting a USB device
7 Managing and sharing information Drives are digital storage devices that help you store, manage, share, and access information. Yourcomputer has an internal hard drive or a solid state drive that stores your computer's software,operating system, and also provides storage for all of your personal f...
Page 57 - Removing a USB device; Inserting and removing a memory card
▲ 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 is revealed on the Windows desk...
Page 59 - Maintaining your computer; Improving performance; Handling drives; Replacing a hard drive
8 Maintaining your computer It is important to perform regular maintenance to keep your computer in optimal condition. Thischapter provides information about improving the performance of your computer by running toolssuch as Disk Defragmenter and Disk Cleanup. It also provides information about upda...
Page 62 - Using HP 3D DriveGuard (select models only); Identifying HP 3D DriveGuard status
3. Remove the hard drive bracket (3) from the hard drive. To install a hard drive, reverse this procedure. Using HP 3D DriveGuard (select models only) HP 3D DriveGuard protects a hard drive by parking the drive and halting data requests under either ofthe following conditions: ● You drop the compute...
Page 63 - Using Disk Defragmenter; Using Disk Cleanup; Adding or replacing memory modules
drive is currently protected or whether it is parked, view the icon on the Windows desktop in thenotification area, at the far right of the taskbar, or in the Mobility Center: ● If the software is actively protecting the drive, a green check mark is superimposed over the icon. ● If the software has ...
Page 67 - Cleaning procedures; Cleaning the sides or cover
● Dry microfiber cleaning cloth or a chamois (static-free cloth without oil) ● Static-free cloth wipes CAUTION: Avoid strong cleaning solvents that can permanently damage your computer. If you are not sure that a cleaning product is safe for your computer, check the product contents to make surethat...
Page 68 - Traveling with or shipping your computer
Traveling with or shipping your computer If you have to travel with or ship your computer, here are some tips to keep in mind to keep yourequipment safe. ● Prepare the computer for traveling or shipping: ◦ Back up your information to an external drive. ◦ Remove all discs and all external media cards...
Page 70 - Setting Windows passwords; Using Internet security software
Setting Windows passwords Password Function User password Protects access to a Windows user account. Administrator password Protects administrator-level access to computer contents. NOTE: This password cannot be used to access Setup Utility (BIOS) contents. Setting Setup Utility (BIOS) passwords Pas...
Page 71 - Using antivirus software; Using firewall software; Installing critical security updates
the security software trial offer or purchase the software of your choice in order to fully protect yourcomputer. Using antivirus software Computer viruses can disable programs, utilities, or the operating system, or cause them to functionabnormally. Antivirus software can detect most viruses, destr...
Page 72 - Securing your wireless network; Backing up your software applications and information; Using an optional security cable lock
If you have installed third-party software after you purchased your computer, regularly update thesoftware. Software companies provide software updates to their products to correct security problemsand improve functionality of the software. Securing your wireless network When you set up your wireles...
Page 73 - Updating the BIOS; Determining the BIOS version
10 Using Setup Utility (BIOS) and HP PC Hardware Diagnostics (UEFI) Setup Utility, or Basic Input/Output System (BIOS), controls communication between all the input andoutput devices on the system (such as disk drives, display, keyboard, mouse, and printer). SetupUtility (BIOS) includes settings for...
Page 74 - 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 theAC adapter. Do not download or install a BIOS update while the computer is runni...
Page 75 - Downloading HP PC Hardware Diagnostics (UEFI) to a USB device
To start HP PC Hardware Diagnostics UEFI: 1. Turn on or restart the computer, quickly press esc , and then press f2 . The BIOS searches three places for the HP PC Hardware Diagnostics (UEFI) tools in thefollowing order: a. Connected USB drive NOTE: To download the HP PC Hardware Diagnostics (UEFI) t...
Page 76 - Creating recovery media and backups
11 Backing up, restoring, and recovering Your computer includes tools provided by HP and Windows to help you safeguard your informationand retrieve it if you ever need to. These tools will help you return your computer to a proper workingstate or even back to the original factory state, all with sim...
Page 77 - Creating HP Recovery media
choose to reset the computer by reinstalling Windows or choose to recover using HP RecoveryManager. NOTE: File History is not enabled by default, so you must turn it on. For more information and steps for enabling Windows File History, see Help and Support. Fromthe Start screen, type h , and then se...
Page 78 - Restore and recovery
Restore and recovery There are several options for recovering your system. Choose the method that best matches yoursituation and level of expertise: ● If you need to restore your personal files and data, you can use Windows File History to restoreyour information from the backups you created. For mo...
Page 80 - Recovering using HP Recovery Manager; What you need to know; Using the HP Recovery partition (select models only)
3. Click Change PC settings in the bottom-right corner of the screen, and then select General from the PC settings screen. 4. Scroll the right-side choices down to display Remove everything and reinstall Windows . 5. Under Remove everything and reinstall Windows , select Get started , and follow the...
Page 81 - Using HP Recovery media to recover; Changing the computer boot order
To start HP Recovery Manager from the HP Recovery partition: 1. Press f11 while the computer boots. – or – Press and hold f11 as you press the power button. 2. Choose your keyboard layout. 3. Select Troubleshoot from the boot options menu. 4. Select Recovery Manager , and follow the on-screen instru...
Page 82 - Removing the HP Recovery partition
Removing the HP Recovery partition HP Recovery Manager software allows you to remove the HP Recovery partition to free up hard drivespace. IMPORTANT: After you remove the HP Recovery partition, you can no longer use the Windows Refresh option, the Windows option to remove everything and reinstall Wi...
Page 83 - 2 Specifications
12 Specifications Input power The power information in this section may be helpful if you plan to travel internationally with thecomputer. The computer operates on DC power, which can be supplied by an AC or a DC power source. TheAC power source must be rated at 100–240 V, 50–60 Hz. Although the com...
Page 84 - 3 Electrostatic Discharge
13 Electrostatic Discharge Electrostatic discharge is the release of static electricity when two objects come into contact—forexample, 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 m...
Page 85 - Index
Index A AC adapter 5AC adapter, testing 44action keys decrease screen brightness 37 Help and Support 37identifying 11increase screen brightness 37next track or section 37play, pause, resume 37previous track or section 37switch screen image 37volume down 37volume mute 37volume up 37wireless 37 airpor...