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 on a hard, flat surface. Do not allow another hard surface, such as an adjoining ...
Page 5 - Table of contents
Table of contents 1 Introduction ..................................................................................................................................................... 1 Finding more information about your new computer .....................................................................
Page 11 - Introduction; Finding more information about your new computer
1 Introduction This guide contains general information about HP notebook computers. NOTE: Some of the features described in this guide may not be available on your computer. Finding more information about your new computer The following user guides and reference material are provided with your compu...
Page 12 - Creating a wireless connection; Identifying wireless and network status icons
2 Networking (select models only) Your computer supports two types of Internet access: ● Wireless —Refer to Creating a wireless connection on page 2 . ● Wired —Refer to Connecting to a wired network on page 9 . NOTE: You must set up Internet service before you can connect to the Internet. Creating a...
Page 14 - Turning wireless devices on or off; Using HP Connection Manager (select models only); Using operating system controls
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. The term wireless button is used throughout th...
Page 15 - Using a WLAN; Connecting to an existing WLAN
Using a WLAN A wireless connection connects the computer to Wi-Fi networks, or WLANs. A WLAN is composed of other computers and accessories that are linked by a wireless router or a wireless access point. Connecting to an existing WLAN Windows 7 1. Be sure that the WLAN device is on. (Refer to Turni...
Page 17 - Roaming to another network; Using HP Mobile Broadband (select models only)
Using HP Mobile Broadband (select models only) 7 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. ● Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) and Wi-Fi Protected Acc...
Page 18 - Inserting a SIM; Removing a SIM
Inserting a SIM NOTE: To identify the SIM slot location, refer to the Getting Started guide. 1. Shut down the computer. If you are not sure whether the computer is off or in Hibernation, turn the computer on by pressing the power button. Then shut down the computer through the operating system. 2. C...
Page 19 - Using Bluetooth wireless devices; Bluetooth and Internet Connection Sharing (ICS); Connecting to a wired network
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 Bluetooth wireless devices A Blu...
Page 20 - Connecting a modem cable
Connecting a modem cable 1. Plug the modem cable into the modem jack (1) on the computer. 2. Plug the modem cable into the RJ-11 telephone wall jack (2) or a route (not illustrated). 10 Chapter 2 Networking (select models only)
Page 25 - Multimedia; Using the media activity controls; Audio
3 Multimedia Your computer may include the following: ● Integrated speaker(s) ● Integrated microphone(s) ● 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 c...
Page 26 - Adjusting the volume; Checking audio functions on the computer
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 fn key) ● Volume keys WARNING! To reduce the risk of personal injury, adjust the volume before putting on headphones,...
Page 27 - Video; VGA
To check the recording functions on your computer, follow these steps: 1. Select Start > All Programs > Accessories > Sound Recorder . 2. Click Start Recording and speak into the microphone. Save the file to your desktop. 3. Open a multimedia program and play back the sound. To confirm or c...
Page 29 - HDMI
HDMI The HDMI 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. NOTE: To transmit video and/or audio signals through the HDMI port, you need an HDMI cable (purchased separately). One HDMI device can...
Page 31 - Power management; Shutting down the computer
4 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 shutdown command closes all o...
Page 32 - Setting power options; Using power-saving states; Initiating and exiting Sleep
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 33 - Initiating and exiting Hibernation; Using the power meter; Viewing the current power plan
Initiating and exiting Hibernation The system is set at the factory to initiate Hibernation after a period of inactivity when running on battery power or on external power, or when the battery reaches a critical battery level. Power settings and timeouts can be changed in Windows Control Panel. To i...
Page 35 - Setting password protection on wakeup
Setting password protection on wakeup To set the computer to prompt for a password when the computer exits Sleep or Hibernation, follow these steps: Windows 7 1. Select Start > Control Panel > System and Security > Power Options . 2. In the left pane, click Require a password on wakeup . 3....
Page 36 - Using HP Power Assistant (select models only); Using battery power; Finding additional battery information
Using HP Power Assistant (select models only) HP Power Assistant allows you to configure system settings to optimize your computer's power consumption and battery charge. HP Power Assistant provides tools and information to help you make informed decisions on power management: ● Power consumption pr...
Page 37 - Using Battery Check; Displaying the remaining battery charge; Managing low battery levels; Identifying low battery levels
Using Battery Check Help and Support provides information on the status of the battery installed in the computer. To run Battery Check: 1. Connect the AC adapter to the computer. NOTE: The computer must be connected to external power for Battery Check to work properly. 2. Select Start > Help and ...
Page 38 - Resolving a low battery level; Conserving battery power
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 st...
Page 39 - Replacing the battery; Using external AC power
Storing a battery CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to a battery, do not expose it to high temperatures for extended periods of time. 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 store...
Page 40 - Testing an AC adapter
When you connect the computer to external AC power, the following events occur: ● The battery begins to charge. ● If the computer is turned on, the power meter icon in the notification area changes appearance. When you disconnect external AC power, the following events occur: ● The computer switches...
Page 41 - Using switchable graphics (select models only)
Switchable graphics/dual graphics (select models only) Select computers are equipped with either switchable graphics or dual graphics. ● Switchable graphics—Supported by both AMD and Intel. If your computer has AMD dynamic switchable graphics, it only supports switchable graphics. ● Dual graphics—Su...
Page 42 - Using dual graphics (select models only)
NOTE: There may be some instances when you may not be allowed to switch modes. In other instances, you may be prompted to switch modes. You may also be required to close all applications before switching. NOTE: For more information, refer to the switchable graphics software Help. Using dual graphics...
Page 43 - External cards and devices; Inserting a digital card
5 External cards and devices Using Media Card Reader 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 forma...
Page 45 - Inserting an ExpressCard
Inserting an ExpressCard CAUTION: To prevent damage to the computer and external media cards, do not insert a PC Card into an ExpressCard slot. CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to the connectors: Use minimal force when inserting an ExpressCard. Do not move or transport the computer when an Expr...
Page 46 - Removing an ExpressCard
Removing an ExpressCard CAUTION: To reduce the risk of loss of data or an unresponsive system, use the following procedure to safely remove the ExpressCard. 1. Save your information and close all programs associated with the ExpressCard. 2. Click the remove hardware icon in the notification area, at...
Page 48 - Connecting a USB device; Removing a USB device
Connecting a USB device CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to a USB connector, use minimal force to connect the device. ▲ Connect the USB cable for the device to the USB port. NOTE: The following illustration may look slightly different than your computer. You will hear a sound when the device ha...
Page 49 - Using an eSATA device (select models only)
Connecting a 1394 device CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to a 1394 port connector, use minimal force to connect the device. ▲ To connect a 1394 device to the computer, connect the 1394 cable for the device to the 1394 port. You will hear a sound when the device has been detected. Removing a 13...
Page 50 - Connecting an eSATA device; Removing an eSATA device
Connecting an eSATA device CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to an eSATA port connector, use minimal force to connect the device. ▲ To connect an eSATA device to the computer, connect the eSATA cable for the device to the eSATA port. You will hear a sound when the device has been detected. Remov...
Page 51 - Using optional external drives
Using a serial device (select models only) Select computer models include a serial port that connects optional devices such as a serial modem, mouse, or printer. Some serial devices may require additional support software, which is usually included with the device. For more information about device-...
Page 52 - Using the expansion port (select models only)
USB drives include the following types: ● 1.44-megabyte diskette drive ● Hard drive module ● External optical drive (CD, DVD, and Blu-ray) ● MultiBay device Using the expansion port (select models only) The expansion port connects the computer to an optional docking or expansion device, so that addi...
Page 53 - Using the docking connector (select models only)
Using the docking connector (select models only) The docking connector connects the computer to an optional docking device. An optional docking device provides additional ports and connectors that can be used with the computer. NOTE: The following image may look slightly different than your computer...
Page 54 - Drives; Handling drives
6 Drives Handling drives CAUTION: 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 c...
Page 55 - Using hard drives; Improving hard drive performance; Using Disk Defragmenter; Using Disk Cleanup
Using hard drives Improving hard drive performance Using Disk Defragmenter As you use the computer, files on the hard drive become fragmented. Disk Defragmenter consolidates the fragmented files and folders on the hard drive so that the system can run more efficiently. NOTE: It is not necessary to r...
Page 56 - Using HP 3D DriveGuard (select models only); Identifying HP 3D DriveGuard status; Managing power with a parked hard drive
Using HP 3D DriveGuard (select models only) HP 3D DriveGuard protects the hard drive by parking the drive and halting data requests under either of the following conditions: ● You drop the computer. ● You move the computer with the display closed while the computer is running on battery power. A sho...
Page 57 - Using HP 3D DriveGuard software; Using optical drives (select models only); Identifying the installed optical drive
Using HP 3D DriveGuard software The HP 3D DriveGuard software enables you to perform the following tasks: ● Enable and disable HP 3D DriveGuard. NOTE: Depending on your user privileges, you may be unable to enable or disable HP 3D DriveGuard. Privileges for non-administrator users can be changed by ...
Page 58 - Removing an optical disc
5. Gently press the disc (3) down onto the tray spindle until the disc snaps into place. 6. 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. It prompts you to select how you want to use the media conte...
Page 61 - Sharing optical drives
Sharing optical drives Although your computer may not have an integrated optical drive, you can access software and data, and install applications, by sharing an optical drive connected to another computer in your network. Sharing drives is a feature of the Windows operating system that allows a dri...
Page 62 - Security; Protecting the computer
7 Security Protecting the computer Standard security features provided by the Windows operating system and the non-Windows Computer Setup utility (BIOS) can protect your personal settings and data from a variety of risks. NOTE: Security solutions are designed to act as deterrents. These deterrents m...
Page 63 - Using passwords
Computer risk Security feature Unauthorized removal of the computer Security cable slot (used with an optional security cable) *Computer Setup is a preinstalled, ROM-based utility that can be used even when the operating system is not working or will not load. You can use either a pointing device (T...
Page 64 - Setting passwords in Windows
Setting passwords in Windows Password Function Administrator password* Protects access to a Windows administrator-level account. NOTE: This password cannot be used to access Computer Setup contents. User password* Protects access to a Windows user account. *For information about setting a Windows ad...
Page 65 - Setting passwords in Computer Setup; Managing a BIOS administrator password
Setting passwords in Computer Setup Password Function BIOS administrator password* Protects access to Computer Setup. DriveLock master password* Protects access to the internal hard drive that is protected by DriveLock. It is also used to remove DriveLock protection. This password is set under Drive...
Page 66 - Entering a BIOS administrator password; Managing a Computer Setup DriveLock password
4. When prompted, type your current password. 5. When prompted, type your new password again to confirm. 6. To save your changes and exit Computer Setup, click the Save icon in the lower-left corner of the screen, and then follow the on-screen instructions. – or – Use the arrow keys to select File &...
Page 67 - Setting a DriveLock password
To apply DriveLock protection to an internal hard drive, a user password and a master password must be set in Computer Setup. Note the following considerations about using DriveLock protection: ● After DriveLock protection is applied to a hard drive, the hard drive can be accessed only by entering e...
Page 69 - Using Computer Setup Automatic DriveLock; Entering an Automatic DriveLock password
6. Type your master password, and then press enter . 7. To save your changes and exit Computer Setup, click the Save icon in the lower-left corner of the screen, and then follow the on-screen instructions. – or – Use the arrow keys to select File > Save Changes and Exit , and then press enter . Y...
Page 70 - Using antivirus software; Using firewall software
5. Use a pointing device or the arrow keys to select Disable protection . 6. To save your changes and exit Computer Setup, click the Save icon in the lower-left corner of the screen, and then follow the on-screen instructions. – or – Use the arrow keys to select File > Save Changes and Exit , and...
Page 71 - Installing an optional security cable
Updates to the operating system and other software may have become available after the computer left the factory. To be sure that all available updates are installed on the computer, observe these guidelines: ● Run Windows Update as soon as possible after you set up your computer. ● Run Windows Upda...
Page 72 - Using the fingerprint reader (select models only); Locating the fingerprint reader
Using the fingerprint reader (select models only) Integrated fingerprint readers are available on select computer models. In order to use the fingerprint reader, you must set up a user account with a password on the computer. This account allows you to log on to your computer with a swipe of a desig...
Page 73 - Maintenance; Cleaning your computer; Cleaning products; Cleaning the display
8 Maintenance Cleaning your computer Cleaning products Use the following products to safely clean and disinfect your computer: ● Dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride 0.3 percent maximum concentration (For example: germicidal disposable wipes. These wipes come in a variety of brand names.) ● Alcohol-fre...
Page 74 - Updating programs and drivers
Cleaning the sides and cover To clean and disinfect the sides and cover, use a soft microfiber cloth or chamois moistened with one of the cleaning solutions listed previously or use an acceptable germicidal disposable wipe. NOTE: When cleaning the cover of the computer, use a circular motion to aid ...
Page 75 - Using SoftPaq Download Manager
Using SoftPaq Download Manager HP SoftPaq Download Manager (SDM) is a tool that provides quick access to SoftPaq information for HP business computers without requiring the SoftPaq number. Using this tool, you can easily search for SoftPaqs, and then download and unpack them. SoftPaq Download Manage...
Page 76 - Using Computer Setup; Starting Computer Setup; Navigating and selecting in Computer Setup
9 Computer Setup (BIOS) and Advanced System Diagnostics Using Computer Setup Computer Setup, 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). Computer Setup includes settin...
Page 77 - Restoring factory settings in Computer Setup
To exit Computer Setup menus, choose one of the following methods: ● To exit Computer Setup menus without saving your changes: Click the Exit icon in the lower-left corner of the screen, and then follow the on-screen instructions. – or – Use the tab key and the arrow keys to select File > Ignore ...
Page 78 - Updating the BIOS; Determining the BIOS version; Downloading a BIOS update
Updating the 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 ...
Page 81 - About the boot device order
10 MultiBoot About the boot device order As the computer starts, the system attempts to boot from enabled boot devices. The MultiBoot utility, which is enabled at the factory, controls the order in which the system selects a boot device. Boot devices can include optical drives, diskette drives, a ne...
Page 82 - Enabling boot devices in Computer Setup; Considering boot order changes
Enabling boot devices in Computer Setup The computer will boot to a USB device or a NIC device only if the device has first been enabled in Computer Setup. To start Computer Setup and enable a USB device or a NIC device as a boot device, follow these steps: 1. Turn on or restart the computer, and th...
Page 83 - Choosing MultiBoot preferences; Setting a new boot order in Computer Setup
● Changing the boot order also changes the logical drive designations. For example, if you start up from a CD-ROM drive with a disc formatted as drive C, that CD-ROM drive becomes drive C and the hard drive in the hard drive bay becomes drive D. ● The computer will boot from a NIC device only if the...
Page 84 - Entering MultiBoot Express preferences
Dynamically choosing a boot device using the f9 prompt To dynamically choose a boot device for the current startup sequence, follow these steps: 1. Open the Select Boot Device menu by turning on or restarting the computer, and then pressing esc while the “Press the ESC key for Startup Menu” message ...
Page 85 - 1 Computer Management; Configuring and deploying a software image
11 Computer Management Using Client Management Solutions Client Management Solutions software provides standards-based solutions for managing client (user) desktop, workstation, notebook, and tablet computers in a networked environment. Client management includes the following key capabilities and f...
Page 86 - Managing and updating software; HP Client Manager for Altiris (select models only)
Managing and updating software HP provides several tools for managing and updating software on client computers: ● HP Client Manager for Altiris (select models only) NOTE: To download HP Client Manager for Altiris or to obtain more information about HP Client Manager for Altiris, see the HP Web site...
Page 88 - Enabling the iAMT solution; Using the MEBx setup utility menus
Support Software CD. To download the SSM utility or to obtain more information on SSM, see the HP Web site at http://www.hp.com/go/ssm (English only). Using Intel Active Management Technology (selectmodels only) Intel® Active Management Technology (iAMT) allows discovery, repair, and protection of n...
Page 90 - A Traveling with the computer
A Traveling with the computer For best results, follow these traveling and shipping tips: ● Prepare the computer for traveling or shipping: ◦ Back up your information. ◦ Remove all discs and all external media cards, such as digital cards. CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to the computer, damag...
Page 92 - B Troubleshooting resources
B Troubleshooting resources ● Access Web site links and additional information about the computer through Help and Support. Select Start > Help and Support . NOTE: Some checkup and repair tools require an Internet connection. HP also provides additional tools that do not require an Internet conne...
Page 93 - C Electrostatic discharge
C 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 m...
Page 94 - Index
Index Symbols/Numerics 1394 cable, connecting 39 1394 devices connecting 39 defined 38 removing 39 A AC adapter, testing 30 administrator password 54 advanced system diagnostics 69 airport security devices 44 Altiris Deployment Solutions 75 antivirus software 60 audio functions, checking 16 Automati...