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Company under license. Intel is a be bound by the terms of the HP End User To obtain the latest information in this trademark of Intel Corporation in the U.S.
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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.
Connecting to a wireless network ....................... 18 Using the wireless controls ....................18 Using the wireless button .................. 18 Using HP Connection Manager (select models only) ........18 Using operating system controls ............... 19 Using a WLAN ........................19 Using an Internet service provider ..............19 Setting up a WLAN ....................
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Using Bluetooth wireless devices ..................21 Connecting to a wired network ......................22 Connecting to a local area network (LAN) ................. 22 4 Enjoying entertainment features ......................... 23 Using the webcam ..........................25 Using audio ............................25 Connecting speakers ......................25 Connecting headphones ....................
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Conserving battery power ....................42 Identifying low battery levels ....................42 Running on external power ........................ 43 HP CoolSense ............................ 43 Updating the software content with Intel Smart Connect Technology (select models only) ....44 Shutting down the computer ....................... 44 7 Managing and sharing information ......................
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Restoring specific files ....................... 71 Restoring specific files using Windows Backup and Restore ......71 Recovering the original system using HP Recovery Manager ........... 71 What you need to know ..................71 Recovering using HP Recovery partition (select models only) ......72 Recovering using the recovery media ...............
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13 Troubleshooting and support ........................76 Troubleshooting ..........................77 Disc drive problems ......................77 Wireless connection problems ................... 77 Cannot connect to a WLAN ................78 Cannot connect to a preferred network ............. 78 Current network security codes are unavailable ..........78 WLAN connection is very weak .................
This computer is a powerful tool designed to enhance your work and entertainment. To get the most out of your computer, read this chapter to learn about best practices after setup, fun things to do with your computer, and where to go to get more HP resources. Best practices...
Fun things to do ● You know you can watch a YouTube video on the computer. But did you know that you can also connect your computer to a TV and watch the video on TV? For more information, see Connecting an HDMI TV or monitor on page ●...
*You can find the expressly provided HP Limited Warranty applicable to your product located with the user guides on your computer and/or on the CD/DVD provided in the box. In some countries/regions, HP may provide a printed HP Limited Warranty in the box.
Getting to know your computer Finding your hardware and software information ▲ Select Start > Computer. A list displays all the devices installed in your computer, including solid-state drives (SSD) or a secondary hard drive. To find out what software is included on your computer, select Start > All Programs. Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer...
Right side Component Description ● Power light White: The computer is on. ● Blinking white: The computer is in the Sleep state, which is an energy-saving mode. The computer shuts off power to the display and other unneeded components. ● Off: The computer is off or in Hibernation.
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Component Description USB 2.0 charging port Connects an optional USB device. The USB 2.0 charging port can also charge select models of cell phones and MP3 players, even when the computer is off. NOTE: For details about different types of USB ports, see Using a USB device on page ●...
Left side Component Description ● RJ-45 (network) lights (2) Green: The network is connected. ● Amber: Activity is occurring on the network. RJ-45 (network) jack Connects a network cable. HDMI port Connects an optional video or audio device, such as a high-definition television, or any compatible digital or audio device.
Rear Component Description Vent Enables airflow to cool internal components. NOTE: The computer fan starts up automatically to cool internal components and prevent overheating. It is normal for the internal fan to cycle on and off during routine operation. Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer...
Record sound. Webcam light On: The webcam is in use. HP TrueVision HD Webcam Records video, captures still photographs, and allows video conferences and online chat by means of streaming video. To use the webcam, select Start > All Programs > CyberLink YouCam.
TouchPad Component Description TouchPad on/off button Turns the TouchPad on or off. ● TouchPad light (select models only) On: The TouchPad is off. ● Off: The TouchPad is on. TouchPad zone Moves the on-screen pointer and selects or activates items on the screen.
Lights Component Description ● Power light White: The computer is on. ● Blinking white: The computer is in the Sleep state, which is an energy-saving mode. The computer shuts off power to the display and other unneeded components. ● Off: The computer is off or in Hibernation. Hibernation is an energy-saving mode that uses the least amount of power.
Component Description Caps lock light On: Caps lock is on, which switches the keys to all capital letters. ● TouchPad light (select models only) On: The TouchPad is off ● Off: The TouchPad is on. Buttons, speakers, and other components Component Description ●...
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Component Description WLAN antennas (2)* Send and receive wireless signals to communicate with wireless local area networks (WLANs). Speakers (4) Produce sound. NOTE: Two of the speakers are on the bottom of the computer, and cannot be seen from the top of the computer.
Keys Component Description Displays system information when pressed in combination with the key. Executes frequently used system functions when pressed in combination with the key or the key. Windows logo key Displays the Windows Start menu. Action keys Execute frequently used system functions. Windows applications key Displays a shortcut menu for items beneath the cursor.
Bottom Component Description Speakers (4) Produce sound. NOTE: Two of the speakers are not shown in this illustration. Vents (2) 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.
Labels The labels affixed to the computer provide information you may need when you troubleshoot system problems or travel internationally with the computer. The labels are in easily accessible locations. ● Service label—Provides important information, including the following: Component Product name Serial number Product part number Warranty period...
Connecting to a network Your computer can travel with you wherever you go. But even at home, you can explore the globe and access information from millions of websites using your computer and a wired or wireless network connection. This chapter will help you get connected to that world.
Using HP Connection Manager (select models only) HP Connection Manager provides a central location for managing your wireless devices, an interface for connecting to the Internet, and an interface for sending and receiving SMS (text) messages. HP Connection Manager allows you to manage the following devices: ●...
SMS (text) messages. Status information and notifications are provided in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar. To open HP Connection Manager, select Start > All Programs > Productivity and Tools > HP Connection Manager. For more details about using HP Connection Manager, see the HP Connection Manager software Help.
Setting up a WLAN To set up a WLAN and connect to the Internet, you need the following equipment: ● A broadband modem (either DSL or cable) (1) and high-speed Internet service purchased from an Internet service provider ● A wireless router (2) (purchased separately) ●...
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) ●...
Connecting to a wired network There are 2 kinds of wired connections: local area network (LAN) and modem connection. A LAN connection uses a network cable and is much faster than a modem, which uses telephone cable. Both cables are sold separately. 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.
Enjoying entertainment features Use your HP computer as an entertainment hub to socialize via the webcam, enjoy and manage your music, and download and watch movies. Or, to make your computer an even more powerful entertainment center, connect external devices like speakers, headphones, monitor, projector, TV, and, on select models, high-definition devices.
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Component Description HP TrueVision HD Webcam Records video, captures still photographs, allows you to video conference and chat online using streaming video. To use the webcam, select Start > All Programs > CyberLink YouCam. USB 2.0 charging port Connects an optional USB device. The USB 2.0...
For details about using the webcam, select Start > Help and Support. Using audio On your HP computer, you can play music CDs, download and listen to music, stream audio content from the web (including radio), record audio, or mix audio and video to create multimedia. To enhance your listening enjoyment, attach external audio devices such as speakers or headphones.
Sound > Sound. Using video Your HP computer is a powerful video device that enables you to watch streaming video from your favorite websites and download video and movies to watch on your computer, without needing to access a network.
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 if you have questions. Connecting an HDMI TV or monitor To see the computer screen image on a high-definition TV or monitor, connect the high-definition device according to the following instructions.
To return the audio stream to the computer speakers, follow these steps: Right-click the Speakers icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar, and then click Playback devices. On the Playback tab, click Speakers. Click Set Default, and then click OK. Using Intel Wireless Display and Wireless Music (select models only) Intel®...
Using the keyboard and pointing devices Your computer allows easy on-screen navigation with a keyboard and a pointing device, such as a TouchPad. Select models also have action keys or hot key shortcuts that enable you to do common tasks. The TouchPad enables you to perform on-screen functions similar to those done by an external mouse.
Using the keyboard The keyboard allows you to type, and the action keys and hot keys allow you to perform specific functions. For more details about the keyboard keys, see Keys on page NOTE: Depending on the country or region, your keyboard may have different keys and keyboard functions than those discussed in this section.
Icon Description Turns the keyboard backlight keyboard feature off or on. NOTE: To conserve battery power, turn off this feature. Plays the previous track of an audio CD or the previous section of a DVD or a BD. Begins, pauses, or resumes playback of an audio CD, a DVD, or a BD. Plays the next track of an audio CD or the next section of a DVD or a BD.
Using the TouchPad Component Description TouchPad on/off button Turns the TouchPad on or off. ● TouchPad light (select models only) On: The TouchPad is off. ● Off: The TouchPad is on. TouchPad zone Moves the on-screen pointer and selects or activates items on the screen.
Navigating To move the on-screen pointer, slide one finger across the TouchPad in the direction you want the pointer to go. Selecting Use the left and right TouchPad buttons as you would use the corresponding buttons on an external mouse. Using the TouchPad...
Using TouchPad gestures The TouchPad supports a variety of gestures that let your fingers swipe, pinch, and rotate to manipulate items on the desktop. To use TouchPad gestures, place two fingers on the TouchPad at the same time. NOTE: TouchPad gestures are not supported in all programs. To view the demonstration of a gesture: Select Start >...
Scrolling Scrolling is useful for moving up, down, or sideways on a page or image. To scroll, place two fingers slightly apart on the TouchPad, and then drag them across the TouchPad in an up, down, left, or right motion. NOTE: Scrolling speed is controlled by finger speed.
Rotating Rotating allows you to rotate items such as photos. To rotate, anchor your left forefinger in the TouchPad zone. Move the right forefinger around the anchored finger in a sweeping motion, moving from 12 o’clock to 3 o’clock. To reverse the rotation, move your right forefinger from 3 o’clock to 12 o’clock.
Managing power Your computer can operate on either battery power or external power. When the computer is only running on battery power and an AC power source is not available to charge the battery, it is important to monitor and conserve the battery charge. Your computer supports power plans to manage how your computer uses and conserves power so that you can balance computer performance with power conservation.
Using Sleep or Hibernation Microsoft Windows has two power-saving states, Sleep and Hibernation. NOTE: For select models, the Intel Rapid Start Technology (RST) feature is enabled at the factory. Rapid Start Technology allows your computer to resume quickly from inactivity. Rapid Start Technology manages your power-saving options as follows: ●...
● Press a key on the keyboard. ● Tap or swipe the TouchPad. When the computer exits Sleep, the power lights turn on and the computer displays the screen as it was when you stopped working. NOTE: If you have set the computer to require a password on wakeup, you must enter your Windows password before the computer redisplays your work.
Using the power meter The power meter allows you to quickly access power settings and view the remaining battery charge. ● To display the percentage of remaining battery charge and the current power plan, move the pointer over the Power Meter icon, at the far right of the taskbar. ●...
High Performance. Favors performance, but may use more energy. You can also create your own power plan and customize it to suit your needs. Use HP Power Manager (select models only) or Windows Control Panel to select a power plan or to create your own plan.
Running on battery power When a charged battery is in the computer and the computer is not plugged into external power, the computer runs on battery power and the display brightness decreases to conserve battery life. The battery in the computer slowly discharges when the computer is off and unplugged from external power.
When HP CoolSense is off, the position of the computer is not detected and the performance and fan options remain at the factory setting. As a result, the surface temperature of the computer may be higher than it would be with HP CoolSense on.
Updating the software content with Intel Smart Connect Technology (select models only) When the computer is in the Sleep state, Intel® Smart Connect Technology periodically causes the computer to exit Sleep. Smart Connect then updates the content for certain open applications and reinitiates Sleep.
Managing and sharing information Drives are digital storage devices or solid-state drives that help you store, manage, share, and access information. Your computer has an internal hard drive that stores your computer's software, operating system, as well as providing storage for all of your personal files. You can use an external optical drive that allows you to read or write to a CD, DVD, or (on select models) Blu-ray Disc (BD), to play and record audio and video.
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 USB port on your computer may look slightly different from the illustration in this section.
Connecting a powered USB device CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to the equipment when connecting a powered device, be sure that the device is turned off and its AC power cord is unplugged. Connect the device to the computer. Plug the device power cord into a grounded AC outlet.
Inserting and removing a digital storage card To insert a digital storage card: CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to the digital card connectors, use minimal force to insert a digital card. Hold the card label-side up, with the connectors facing the computer. Insert the card into the digital storage slot, and then press in on the card until it is firmly seated.
Using an optional external optical drive Some external optical drives can only read information, but others can also write (burn) information onto a blank disc. Use these tips for best performance when using an external optical drive: ● When the battery is the only source of power, be sure the battery is sufficiently charged before writing to media.
Inserting an optical disc Turn on the computer. Press the release button (1) on the drive bezel to release the disc tray. Pull out the tray (2). Hold the disc by the edges to avoid touching the flat surfaces and position the disc label-side up over the tray spindle.
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.
Maintaining your computer It is important to perform regular maintenance to keep your computer in optimal condition. This chapter provides information about improving the performance of your computer by running tools such as Disk Defragmenter and Disk Cleanup. It also provides information about updating your programs and drivers, instructions for cleaning your computer, and tips for traveling with your computer.
Disk Defragmenter may take more than an hour to complete. HP recommends defragmenting your hard drive at least once a month. You may set Disk Defragmenter to run on a monthly schedule, but you can defragment your computer manually at any time.
Updating programs and drivers HP recommends that you update your programs and drivers on a regular basis to the latest versions. Updates can resolve issues and bring new features and options to your computer. Technology is always changing, and updating programs and drivers allows your computer to run the latest technology available.
Cleaning your computer Cleaning your computer and external devices helps keep them in good working condition. If you don't clean your computer, dust and dirt particles can build up. CAUTION: Avoid using the following cleaning products to clean your computer: Strong solvents, such as alcohol, acetone, ammonium chloride, methylene chloride, and hydrocarbons, which can permanently damage the surface of the 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 your equipment safe. ● Prepare the computer for traveling or shipping: ◦ Back up your information to an external drive. ◦...
Security cable lock Locating your security software HP Security Assistant (select models only) provides a starting location for quick access to a collection of security software applications that are organized by task. Instead of searching for each application through the Start menu and Control Panel, HP Security Assistant allows you to access the applications for the following security tasks: ●...
Several types of passwords can be set. For example, when you set up your computer for the first time, you were asked to create a user password to secure your computer. Additional passwords can be set in Windows or in the HP Setup Utility (BIOS) that is preinstalled on your computer.
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Password Function ● Administrator password Must be entered each time you access Setup Utility (BIOS). ● If you forget your administrator password, you cannot access Setup Utility (BIOS). NOTE: The administrator password can be used in place of the power-on password. NOTE: Your administrator password is not interchangeable with an administrator password set in Windows, nor is it...
Password Function Embedded Security State (select models only) No Operation/Disabled/ Enabled ● If the administrator password is not set or if TPM Security Device is set to Hidden, this entry is hidden. ● You can enable or disable the TPM function. ●...
Installing HP and third-party software updates HP recommends that you regularly update the software and drivers that were originally installed on your computer. To download the latest versions, go to the HP website. For U.S. support, go to http:// www.hp.com/go/contactHP. For worldwide support, go to http://welcome.hp.com/country/us/en/...
Securing your wireless network When you set up your wireless network, always enable security features. For more information, see Protecting your WLAN on page Backing up your software applications and information Regularly back up your software applications and information to protect them from being permanently lost or damaged through a virus attack or a software or hardware failure.
Updating the BIOS Updated versions of the BIOS may be available on the HP website. Most BIOS updates on the HP website are packaged in compressed files called SoftPaqs. Some download packages contain a file named Readme.txt, which contains information regarding installing and troubleshooting the file.
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. BIOS version information (also known as ROM date and System BIOS) can be displayed by pressing fn+esc (if you are already in Windows) or by using Setup Utility (BIOS).
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.
Using System Diagnostics System Diagnostics allows you to run diagnostic tests to determine if the computer hardware is functioning properly. To start System Diagnostics: Turn on or restart the computer. While the “Press the ESC key for Startup Menu” message is displayed in the lower-left corner of the screen, press esc.
You can use an optional external optical drive (purchased separately) to create recovery discs, or you can obtain recovery discs for your computer from the HP website. If you use an external optical drive, it must be connected directly to a USB port on the computer, not to a USB port on an external device, such as a USB hub.
● If necessary, you can exit the program before you have finished creating the recovery media. The next time you open HP Recovery Manager, you will be prompted to continue the process. Creating the recovery media Select Start and type recovery in the search field. Select Recovery Manager from the list.
Backing up system and personal information Your computer stores information that is important to you, such as files, emails, and photos, and you will want to keep that information even if you download a virus or the system stops working properly. How completely you are able to recover your files depends on how recent your backup is.
Creating a backup using Windows Backup and Restore Windows allows you to back up files using Windows Backup and Restore. You can select the level you want to back up, from individual folders to drives. The backups are compressed to save space. To back up: Select Start >...
Recycle Bin, or if files become corrupt, restoring specific files is useful. Restoring specific files is also useful if you ever choose to recover the original system using HP Recovery Manager. You can only restore specific files that you have backed up before.
● If the recovery media do not work, you can obtain recovery discs for your system from the HP website. ● The Minimized Image Recovery option is recommended for advanced users only. All hardware- related drivers and software are re-installed, but other software applications are not. Do not interrupt the process until it is complete, otherwise the recovery will fail.
Changing the computer boot order To change the boot order for recovery discs: Restart the computer. Press while the computer is restarting, and then press for boot options. Select External CD/DVD ROM Drive from the boot options window. To change the boot order for a recovery flash drive: Insert the flash drive into a USB port.
DC power source, it should be powered only with an AC adapter or a DC power source supplied and approved by HP for use with this computer. The computer can operate on DC power within the following specifications. Operating voltage and current varies by platform.
Operating environment Factor Metric U.S. Temperature Operating 5°C to 35°C 41°F to 95°F Nonoperating -20°C to 60°C -4°F to 140°F Relative humidity (noncondensing) Operating 10% to 90% 10% to 90% Nonoperating 5% to 95% 5% to 95% Maximum altitude (unpressurized) Operating -15 m to 3,048 m -50 ft to 10,000 ft...
Troubleshooting Disc drive problems If the optional external optical disc tray fails to open normally, follow these steps: Insert the end of a paper clip into the release access (1) in the front bezel of the drive. Press in gently on the paper clip until the tray is released, and then pull out the tray (2) until it stops.
Cannot connect to a WLAN If you have a problem connecting to a WLAN, confirm that the integrated WLAN device is turned on and properly installed on your computer. If the wireless light is off or amber, press the wireless button, wireless switch, or wireless key to turn the wireless device on.
on a secure network. The SSID and security code are alphanumeric codes that you enter into your computer to identify your computer to the network. ● For a network connected to your personal wireless router, review the router user guide for instructions on setting up the same codes on both the router and the WLAN device.
A Windows “Device not Found” error message may also be displayed. The driver must be reinstalled. Get the latest version of the WLAN device software and drivers for your computer from the HP website at http://www.hp.com. If the WLAN device you are using was purchased separately, consult the manufacturer's website for the latest software.
● Connect an AC adapter. ● Connect an optional docking or expansion device. ● Connect an optional power adapter purchased as an accessory from HP. Resolving a low battery level when no power source is available ● Initiate Hibernation. ●...
Contacting support If the information provided in this user guide or in Help and Support does not answer your questions, you can contact support. For U.S. support, go to http://www.hp.com/go/contactHP. For worldwide support, go to http://welcome.hp.com/country/us/en/wwcontact_us.html. Here you can: ●...
14 Electrostatic Discharge Electrostatic discharge is the release of static electricity when two objects come into contact—for example, the shock you receive when you walk across the carpet and touch a metal door knob. A discharge of static electricity from fingers or other electrostatic conductors may damage electronic components.