User Guide
© Copyright 2012, 2013 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Bluetooth is a trademark owned by its proprietor and used by Hewlett-Packard Company under license. Intel is a trademark of Intel Corporation in the U.S. and other countries. Microsoft and Windows are U.S. registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. SD Logo is a trademark of its proprietor. The information contained herein is subject to change without 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 optional printer, or a soft surface, such as pillows or rugs or clothing, to block airflow.
iv Safety warning notice
Table of contents 1 Starting right ................................................................................................................................................... 1 Best practices ....................................................................................................................................... 1 Fun things to do .................................................................................................................................... 1 More HP resources ....
4 Enjoying entertainment features ................................................................................................................. 18 Using the webcam .............................................................................................................................. 19 Using audio ........................................................................................................................................ 19 Connecting speakers ..........................................
Enabling and exiting user-initiated Hibernation ................................................................. 36 Setting password protection on wakeup ............................................................................ 36 Using the power meter and power settings ........................................................................................ 37 Running on battery power ..................................................................................................................
9 Securing your computer and information .................................................................................................. 51 Using passwords ................................................................................................................................ 51 Setting Windows passwords .............................................................................................. 52 Setting Setup Utility (BIOS) passwords ..........................................................
Index ...................................................................................................................................................................
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1 Starting right This computer is a powerful tool designed to enhance your work and entertainment. Read this chapter to learn about best practices after setup, fun things to do with your computer, and where to get more HP resources. Best practices To get the most out of your smart investment, after you set up and register the computer, we recommend the following steps: ● Take a minute to browse the printed Windows 8 Basics guide to explore the new Windows® features.
More HP resources You have already used Setup Instructions to turn on the computer and locate this guide. To locate product details, how-to information, and more, use this table. Resource Contents Setup Instructions ● Overview of computer setup and features. Windows 8 Basics guide ● Overview of using and navigating with Windows 8. Help and Support ● A broad range of how-to information and troubleshooting tips. Safety & Comfort Guide ● Proper workstation setup.
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, select Device Manager. A list displays all the devices installed in your computer.
Component (2) Description Hard drive light ● Blinking white: The hard drive is being accessed. ● Amber: HP 3D DriveGuard has temporarily parked the hard drive. NOTE: For information about HP 3D DriveGuard, see Using HP 3D DriveGuard on page 47. (3) (4) Digital Media Slot USB 3.
Left side Component (1) Description Security cable slot Attaches an optional security cable to the computer. NOTE: The security cable is designed to act as a deterrent, but it may not prevent the computer from being mishandled or stolen. (2) 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. (3) USB 2.
Display Component Description (1) WLAN antennas (2)* Send and receive wireless signals to communicate with wireless local area networks (WLANs). (2) Webcam light On: The webcam is in use. (3) HP TrueVision HD Webcam Records video, captures still photographs, and allows you to video conference and chat online using streaming video. To use the webcam, from the Start screen type c, and then select CyberLink YouCam. (4) Internal microphone Records sound.
Top TouchPad Component (1) Description TouchPad light ● Amber: The TouchPad is off. ● Off: The TouchPad is on. (2) TouchPad on/off button Turns the TouchPad on or off. (3) TouchPad zone Moves the on-screen pointer and selects or activates items on the screen. NOTE: The TouchPad also supports edge-swipe gestures. For more information, see Edge swipes on page 26. (4) Left TouchPad button Functions like the left button on an external mouse.
Lights Component (1) 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. NOTE: For select models, the Intel® Rapid Start Technology feature is enabled at the factory.
Buttons and speakers Component (1) Description Power button ● When the computer is off, press the button to turn on the computer. ● When the computer is in the Sleep state, press the button briefly to exit Sleep. ● When the computer is in Hibernation, press the button down briefly to exit Hibernation. CAUTION: Pressing and holding down the power button will result in the loss of unsaved information.
Keys Component Description (1) esc key Displays system information when pressed in combination with the fn key. (2) fn key Displays system information when pressed in combination with the esc key. (3) Windows key Returns you to the Start screen from an open app or the Desktop. NOTE: Pressing the Windows key again will return you to the previous screen. 10 (4) Action keys Execute frequently used system functions. (5) Windows applications key Displays options for a selected object.
Bottom Component Description (1) Battery bay Holds the battery. (2) Battery lock Locks and unlocks the battery. (3) Vents (4) Enable airflow to cool internal components. NOTE: The computer fan starts up automatically to cool internal components and prevent overheating. It is normal for the internal fan to cycle on and off during routine operation. (4) Battery release latch Releases the battery from the battery bay.
Component (1) Product name (2) Serial number (3) Product number (4) Warranty period (5) Model description (select models only) Have this information available when you contact support. The service label is located on the bottom of your computer. 12 ● Regulatory label—Provides regulatory information about the computer. The regulatory label is located on the bottom of your computer.
3 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. Connecting to a wireless network Wireless technology transfers data across radio waves instead of wires.
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. Using a WLAN With a WLAN device, you can access a wireless local area network (WLAN), which is composed of other computers and accessories that are linked by a wireless router or a wireless access point.
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) ● A wireless computer (3) NOTE: Some modems have a built-in wireless router. Check with your ISP to determine what type of modem you have.
Connecting to a WLAN To connect to a WLAN, follow these steps: 1. Be sure that the WLAN device is on. If the device is on, the wireless light is on (white). If the wireless light is amber, press the wireless button. 2. From the Desktop, tap or click the network status icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar. 3. Select your WLAN from the list. 4. Select Next. If the WLAN is a security-enabled WLAN, you are prompted to enter a security code.
Connecting to a local area network (LAN) Use a LAN connection if you want to connect the computer directly to a router in your home (instead of working wirelessly), or if you want to connect to an existing network at your office. Connecting to a LAN requires an 8-pin, RJ-45 (network) cable. To connect the network cable, follow these steps: 1. Plug the network cable into the network jack (1) on the computer. 2. Plug the other end of the network cable into a network wall jack (2) or router.
4 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 a monitor, projector, or TV, or speakers and headphones. Here are some of the entertainment features on your computer. Component Description (1) Webcam light On: The webcam is in use.
Component (5) Description USB 3.0 ports (2) Connect optional USB 3.0 devices and provide enhanced USB power performance. NOTE: For details about different types of USB ports, see Using a USB device on page 43. (6) Speakers (2) Produce sound. (7) Audio-out (headphone) jack/Audio-in (microphone) jack Produces sound when connected to optional powered stereo speakers, headphones, earbuds, a headset, or television audio cable. Also connects an optional headset microphone.
Connecting headphones You can connect wired headphones to the audio-out jack/audio-in jack on your computer. To connect wireless headphones to your computer, follow the device manufacturer's instructions. WARNING! To reduce the risk of personal injury, lower the volume setting before putting on headphones, earbuds, or a headset. For additional safety information, see the Regulatory, Safety and Environmental Notices.
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-definition device according to the following instructions. 1. Connect one end of the HDMI cable to the HDMI port on the computer. 2. Connect the other end of the cable to the high-definition TV or monitor. 3.
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. On models with a touch screen, press and hold the Speakers icon. 2. Select Playback devices. 3. On the Playback tab, select Speakers and Headphones. 4. Select Set Default, and then select OK.
5 Navigating using touch gestures, pointing devices, and the keyboard Your computer allows navigation using touch gestures in addition to the keyboard and mouse. Touch gestures can be used on your computer TouchPad or on a touch screen (select models only). NOTE: An external USB mouse (purchased separately) can be connected to one of the USB ports on the computer. Review the Windows 8 Basics guide included with your computer.
To view a demonstration of each gesture: 1. From the Start screen, type c to display the Apps list. Select Control Panel, and then select Hardware and Sound. 2. Select Synaptics TouchPad. 3. Click a gesture to activate the demonstration. To turn the gestures off or on: 1. From the Synaptics TouchPad screen, select or clear the check box next to the gesture that you want to turn on or off. 2. Click Apply, and then click OK.
Scrolling Scrolling is useful for moving up, down, or sideways on a page or image. ● Place two fingers slightly apart on the TouchPad zone and then drag them up, down, left, or right. Pinching/zooming Pinching and zooming allow you to zoom out or in on images or text. ● Zoom in by placing two fingers together on the TouchPad zone and then moving your fingers apart. ● Zoom out by placing two fingers apart on the TouchPad zone and then moving your fingers together.
Edge swipes Edge swipes allow you to perform tasks such as changing settings and finding or using apps. Right-edge swipe The right-edge swipe reveals the charms, which let you search, share, start apps, access devices, or change settings. ● Swipe your finger gently from the right edge to display the charms. Top-edge swipe The top-edge swipe allows you to access All Apps available on the Start screen. IMPORTANT: ● 26 When an app is active, the top-edge gesture varies depending on the app.
Left-edge swipe The left-edge swipe reveals your open apps so that you can switch to them quickly. ● Swipe your finger gently from the left edge of the TouchPad to switch between apps. 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 mouse.
Tapping To make an on-screen selection, use the tap function. ● Use one finger to tap an object on the screen to make a selection. Double-tap an item to open it. NOTE: Press and hold your finger on an object to open a help screen that provides information about the object. Press and hold provides the same information as using a mouse to right-click an object.
Pinch/stretch Pinching and stretching allows you to zoom out or in on images or text. ● Zoom in by placing two fingers together on the display and then move your fingers apart. ● Zoom out by placing two fingers apart on the display and then move your fingers together.
Edge swipes With edge swipes you can perform tasks such as changing settings and finding or using apps. Right-edge swipe The right-edge swipe reveals the charms, which let you search, share, start apps, access devices, or change settings. ● Gently swipe your finger inward from the right edge of the display bezel onto the screen to display the charms. Left-edge swipe The left-edge swipe accesses your recently opened apps so that you can switch between them quickly.
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 your computer. 1. Gently swipe your finger from the top edge or the bottom edge of the display bezel onto the screen. 2. Tap All apps to view available apps.
Using the keyboard and mouse The keyboard and mouse allow you to type, select items, scroll and to perform the same functions as you do by using touch gestures. The keyboard also allows you to use action keys and hot keys to perform specific functions. TIP: The Windows key on the keyboard allows you to quickly return to the Start screen from an open app or the Desktop. Pressing the Windows key again will return you to the previous screen.
Icon Key Description f10 Increases speaker volume incrementally as long as you hold down the key. f11 Mutes or restores speaker sound. f12 Turns the wireless feature on or off. NOTE: A wireless network must be set up before a wireless connection is possible. Using Microsoft Windows 8 shortcut keys Microsoft Windows 8 provides shortcuts to perform actions quickly. Several shortcuts will help you with Windows 8 functions. Press the Windows key in combination with the key to perform the action.
Using the hot keys A hot key is a combination of the fn key and the esc key. To use a hot key: ▲ 34 Briefly press the fn key, and then briefly press the second key of the combination. Function Hot key Description Display system information. fn+esc Displays information about system hardware components and the system BIOS version number.
6 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. Initiating Sleep and Hibernation Windows has two power-saving states, Sleep and Hibernation.
Initiating and exiting Sleep With the computer on, you can initiate Sleep in any of the following ways: ● Close the display. ● From the Start screen, point to the upper-right or lower-right corner of the screen. When the charms list opens, select Settings, select the Power icon, and then select Sleep. To exit Sleep: ● Briefly press the power button. ● If the display is closed, open the display. ● Press a key on the keyboard. ● Tap or swipe the TouchPad.
4. Select Require a password (recommended). NOTE: If you need to create a user account password or change your current user account password, select Create or change your user account password, and then follow the onscreen instructions. If you do not need to create or change a user account password, go to step 5. 5. Select Save changes. Using the power meter and power settings The power meter is located on the Windows desktop.
4. Slide the battery (3) from the middle to remove it from the computer. NOTE: The battery release latch automatically returns to its original position. The battery lock will remain in the unlocked position. Installing a user-replaceable battery To install the battery, follow these steps: CAUTION: Do not slant the battery as you insert it. 1. Holding the battery in the middle, slide the battery (1) straight into the computer until the battery release latch locks into place. 2.
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 the user-replaceable battery from the computer when it is not being used or charged. ● Turn off wireless devices when you are not using them. ● Disconnect unused external devices that are not plugged into an external power source, such as an external hard drive connected to a USB port.
If your computer will be unused and unplugged from external power for more than 2 weeks, remove the battery and store it separately in a cool, dry place to prolong the battery charge. A stored battery should be checked every 6 months. If the capacity is less than 50 percent, recharge the battery before returning it to storage.
Troubleshooting power problems Test the AC adapter if the computer exhibits any of the following symptoms when it is connected to AC power: ● The computer does not turn on. ● The display does not turn on. ● The power lights are off. To test the AC adapter: 1. Shut down the computer. 2. Remove the battery from the computer. 3. Connect the AC adapter to the computer, and then plug it into an AC outlet. 4. Turn on the computer. ● If the power lights turn on, the AC adapter is working properly.
Refreshing your 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. As a result, your work is immediately available to you as soon as you exit Sleep. You do not have to wait while updates are downloaded.
7 Managing and sharing information Drives are digital storage devices that help you store, manage, share, and access information. Your computer has an internal hard drive that stores your computer's software and operating system, as well as provides storage for all of your personal files. Some computers also have an optional optical drive that allows you to read or write to a CD, DVD, or 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. A sound indicates that the device has been detected.
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. 1. Hold the card label-side up, with the connectors facing the computer. 2. Insert the card into the digital storage slot, and then press in on the card until it is firmly seated. A sound indicates that the device has been detected.
Sharing data and drives and accessing software When your computer is part of a network, you are not limited to using only the information that is stored on your computer. Networked computers can exchange software and data with each other. NOTE: When a disc like a DVD movie or game is copy-protected, it cannot be shared. To share folders or libraries on the same network: 1. On the Desktop, open File Explorer. 2. Select the Share tab on the Libraries window, and then select Specific people. 3.
8 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.
To run Disk Defragmenter: 1. Connect the computer to AC power. 2. From the Start screen, type disk, select Settings, and then select Defragment and optimize your drives. 3. Follow the on-screen instructions. For additional information, access the Disk Defragmenter software Help. Using Disk Cleanup Disk Cleanup searches the hard drive for unnecessary files that you can safely delete to free up disk space and help the computer run more efficiently. To run Disk Cleanup: 1.
Cleaning the TouchPad and keyboard CAUTION: Never allow liquids to drip between the keys on the keyboard, even when you are cleaning the computer. This can permanently damage internal components. ● To clean and disinfect the TouchPad and keyboard, use a soft microfiber cloth or a static-free cloth without oil (such as a chamois cloth) moistened with an alcohol-free glass cleaner or use an acceptable germicidal disposable wipe.
WARNING! To reduce the risk of electric shock, fire, or damage to the equipment, do not attempt to power the computer with a voltage converter kit sold for appliances.
9 Securing your computer and information Computer security is essential for protecting the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of your information. Standard security solutions provided by the Windows operating system, HP applications, the non-Windows Setup Utility (BIOS), and other third-party software can help protect your computer from a variety of risks, such as viruses, worms, and other types of malicious code.
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 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).
the security software trial offer or purchase the software of your choice in order to fully protect your computer. Using antivirus software Computer viruses can disable programs, utilities, or the operating system, or cause them to function abnormally. Antivirus software can detect most viruses, destroy them, and in most cases, repair any damage they have caused. To provide ongoing protection against newly discovered viruses, antivirus software must be kept up to date.
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/ wwcontact_us.html. At this location, you can also register to receive automatic update notifications when they become available.
3. Insert the security cable lock into the security cable slot on the computer (3), and then lock the security cable lock with the key. 4. Remove the key and keep it in a safe place.
10 Using Setup Utility (BIOS) and System Diagnostics 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.
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: 1. Turn on or restart the computer, quickly press esc, and then press f2. 2. Select the diagnostic test you want to run, and then follow the on-screen instructions. NOTE: 58 If you need to stop a diagnostic test while it is running, press esc.
11 Backing up, restoring, and recovering Your computer includes tools provided by HP and the operating system to help you safeguard your information and retrieve it if you ever need to. These tools will help you return your computer to a proper working state or even back to the original factory state, all with simple steps.
choose to reset the computer by reinstalling Windows or choose to recover using HP Recovery Manager. 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 Windows Help and Support. From the Start screen, type h, and then select Help and Support. Creating HP Recovery media HP Recovery Manager is a software program that offers a way to create recovery media after you successfully set up the computer.
Restore and recovery There are several options for recovering your system. Choose the method that best matches your situation and level of expertise: ● If you need to restore your personal files and data, you can use Windows File History to restore your information from the backups you created. For more information and steps for using File History, see Windows Help and Support. From the Start screen, type h, and then select Help and Support.
Using Windows Refresh for quick and easy recovery When your computer is not working properly and you need to regain system stability, the Windows Refresh option allows you to start fresh and keep what is important to you. IMPORTANT: Refresh removes any traditional applications that were not originally installed on the system at the factory. NOTE: During Refresh, a list of removed traditional applications will be saved so that you have a quick way to see what you might need to reinstall.
3. Select 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 onscreen instructions. Recovering using HP Recovery Manager HP Recovery Manager software allows you to recover the computer to its original factory state.
3. Select Troubleshoot from the boot options menu. 4. Select Recovery Manager, and follow the on-screen instructions. Using HP Recovery media to recover You can use HP Recovery media to recover the original system. This method can be used if your system does not have an HP Recovery partition or if the hard drive is not working properly. 1. If possible, back up all personal files. 2. Insert the first HP Recovery disc you created into an optional external optical drive, and then restart the computer.
12 Specifications Input power The power information in this section may be helpful if you plan to travel internationally with the computer. The computer operates on DC power, which can be supplied by an AC or a DC power source. The AC power source must be rated at 100–240 V, 50–60 Hz. Although the computer can be powered from a standalone 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.
13 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.
Index A AC adapter 4 AC adapter, testing 41 action keys decrease screen brightness 32 functions 32 Help and Support 32 identifying 10 increase screen brightness 32 next track or section 32 play, pause, resume 32 previous track or section 32 switch screen image 32 using 32 volume down 32 volume mute 33 volume up 33 wireless 33 antivirus software, using 53 audio 19 audio functions, checking 20 audio-in (microphone) jack 5 audio-out (headphone) jack 5, 19 B back up personal files 60 backing up software and inf
high-definition devices, connecting 21, 22 hot keys description 34 display system information 34 functions 34 using 34 HP 3D DriveGuard 47 HP and third-party software updates, installing 54 HP Recovery Manager 63 correcting boot problems 64 starting 63 HP Recovery media creating 60 recovery 64 HP Recovery partition 63 recovery 63 removing 64 hubs 43 I input power 65 installing critical updates 53 optional security cable lock 54 integrated webcam light, identifying 6, 18 Intel Rapid Start Technology 35 Intel
reset computer 61, 62 steps 62 restore Windows File History 61 right-click using touch screen gestures 28 right-edge swipe 30 RJ-45 (network) jack, identifying 4 S scrolling TouchPad gesture 25 security cable lock, installing 54 security cable slot, identifying 5 security, wireless 15 serial number 11 service label, computer 11 service labels locating 11 setting password protection on wakeup 36 setup of WLAN 15 Setup Utility (BIOS) passwords 52 shipping the computer 49 Shortcut keys Windows 8 shortcut keys
