User Guide
© Copyright 2012 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 .................................................................................................................................... 2 More HP resources ...
Protecting your WLAN ....................................................................................... 19 Connecting to a WLAN ...................................................................................... 20 Using Bluetooth wireless devices (select models only) ..................................................... 20 Connecting to a wired network ...........................................................................................................
Using the integrated numeric keypad ................................................................................ 38 6 Managing power ............................................................................................................................................ 39 Initiating Sleep and Hibernation ......................................................................................................... 40 Intel Rapid Start Technology (select models only) .......................................
Maintaining your computer .......................................................................................................................... 58 Improving performance ...................................................................................................................... 58 Handling drives .................................................................................................................. 58 Replacing a hard drive .........................................................
11 Backing up, restoring, and recovering ..................................................................................................... 77 Creating recovery media and backups ............................................................................................... 78 Creating HP Recovery media ............................................................................................ 79 Restore and recovery .......................................................................................
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1 Starting right 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 To get the most out of your smart investment, after you set up and register the computer, we recommend the following steps: ● If you haven’t already done so, connect to a wired or wireless network.
Fun things to do 2 ● 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 or gaming console? For more information, see Connecting an HDMI device on page 27. ● You know you can listen to music on the computer. But did you know that you can also stream live radio to the computer and listen to music or talk radio from all over the world? See Using audio on page 24. ● You know you can create a powerful presentation with Microsoft apps.
More HP resources You have already used Setup Instructions to turn on the computer and locate this guide. For 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, click Device Manager. A list displays all the devices installed in your computer.
Right side Component Description (1) Optical drive Reads and writes (select models only) to an optical disc. (2) Optical drive light ● Green: The optical drive is being accessed. ● Off: The optical drive is idle. (3) Optical drive eject button Releases the disc tray. (4) 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.
Component (8) Description AC adapter light ● White: The AC adapter is connected and the battery is charged. ● Amber: The AC adapter is connected and the battery is charging. ● Off: The computer is using DC power. (9) Power connector Connects an AC adapter. (10) 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.
Left side Component (1) 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. (2) External monitor port Connects an external VGA monitor or projector. (3) 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.
Display Component Description (1) WLAN antennas (2)* Send and receive wireless signals to communicate with wireless local area networks (WLANs). (2) Internal microphones (2) Record sound. (3) HP TrueVision HD Webcam Records video, captures still photographs, allows video conferences and online chat by means of streaming video. To use the webcam, from the Start screen, type c, and then select CyberLink YouCam. (4) Webcam light On: The webcam is in use. (5) Speakers (2) Produce sound.
Top TouchPad Component 10 Description (1) TouchPad on/off button Turns the TouchPad on or off. (2) TouchPad light ● On: The TouchPad is off. ● Off: The TouchPad is on. (3) TouchPad zone Moves the on-screen pointer and selects or activates items on the screen. (4) Left TouchPad button Functions like the left button on an external mouse. (5) Right TouchPad button Functions like the right 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, speakers, and fingerprint reader 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. 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 Executes frequently used system functions when pressed in combination with the b key, the spacebar, or the esc key. (3) Windows logo key Displays the Desktop or the Start screen. (4) b key Enables or disables Beats Audio when pressed in combination with the fn key.
Component (7) Description num lock key Controls the function of the integrated numeric keypad. Press the key to alternate between the standard numeric function of an external keypad (selected at the factory) and the navigational function (indicated by the directional arrows on the keys).
Bottom Component Description (1) Battery bay Holds the battery. (2) Battery release latch Releases the battery from the battery bay and opens the service door. (3) Vents (3) 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) Integrated subwoofer Provides superior bass sound.
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 (1) Product name (2) Serial number (3) Product part number (4) Warranty period (5) Model description Have this information available when you contact support. The service label is affixed inside the battery bay.
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.
NOTE: On some models, the wireless light is amber when all wireless devices are off. Because the wireless devices are enabled at the factory, you can use the wireless button to turn on or turn off the wireless devices simultaneously. Using operating system controls The Network and Sharing Center allows you to set up a connection or network, connect to a network, manage wireless networks, and diagnose and repair network problems. To use operating system controls: 1.
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.
Wireless encryption uses security settings to encrypt and decrypt data that is transmitted over the network. For more information, from the Start screen, type h, and then select Help and Support from the list of apps. Connecting to a WLAN To connect to the WLAN, follow these steps: 1. Be sure that the WLAN device is on. If the device is on, the wireless light is on. If the wireless light is off, press the wireless button. NOTE: On some models, the wireless light is amber when all wireless devices are off.
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 connection, which uses a 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.
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 speakers, headphones, monitor, projector, TV, and, on select models, high-definition devices. Here are some of the entertainment features on your computer.
Component Description (3) Webcam light On: The webcam is in use. (4) Speakers (4) Produce sound. (5) USB 2.0 port Connects an optional USB device. For details about different types of USB ports, see Using a USB device on page 51. (6) USB 3.0 ports (3) Connect optional USB 3.0 devices and provide enhanced USB power performance. (7) Optical drive Reads and writes (select models only) to an optical disc. (8) Integrated subwoofer Provides superior bass sound.
To start the webcam, from the Start screen, type c, and then select CyberLink YouCam. For details about using the webcam go to Help and Support. From the Start screen, type h, and then select 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.
Checking the sound To check the audio functions on your computer, follow these steps: 1. From the Start screen, type c, and then select Control Panel from the list of apps. 2. Select Hardware and Sound > Sound. 3. When the Sound window opens, select the Sounds tab. Under Program Events, select any sound event, such as a beep or alarm, and then click Test. You should hear sound through the speakers or through connected headphones.
Connecting a VGA monitor or projector To see the computer screen image on an external VGA monitor or projected for a presentation, connect a monitor or projector to the computer's VGA port. To connect a monitor or projector: 1. Connect the VGA cable from the monitor or projector to the VGA port on the computer as shown. 2. Press f4 to alternate the screen image between 4 display states: ● PC Screen only: View the screen image on the computer only.
Connecting an HDMI device To see the computer screen image on a high-definition TV or monitor, connect the high-definition device according to the following instructions. To connect an HDMI device to your computer, you need an HDMI cable, sold separately. To connect a high-definition TV or monitor to your computer: 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.
Configuring audio settings (with HDMI TV) HDMI is the only video interface that supports high-definition video and audio. After you connect an HDMI TV to the computer, you can then turn on HDMI audio by following these steps: 1. On the Desktop, right-click the Speaker icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar, and then click Playback devices. 2. On the Playback tab, click the name of the digital output device. 3. Click Set Default, and then click OK.
5 Navigating using touch gestures, pointing devices and the keyboard Your computer allows navigation using touch gestures (select models only) 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.
Using the TouchPad The TouchPad allows you to navigate the computer with simple finger movements. You can customize the touch gestures by changing settings, button configurations, click speed, and pointer options. From the Start screen, type c to display the Apps list. Select Control Panel, and then select Hardware and Sound. Under Devices and Printers, select Mouse. Turning the TouchPad off or on To turn the TouchPad off or on, quickly double-tap the TouchPad on/off button.
Using TouchPad gestures A TouchPad allows you to control the pointing device on the screen using your fingers. TIP: Use the left and right buttons on the TouchPad as you would use the corresponding buttons on a external mouse. NOTE: TouchPad gestures are not supported in all apps. 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.
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 in or out on images or text. 32 ● 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.
Rotating (select models only) Rotating allows you to turn items such as photos. ● Point to an object, then anchor the forefinger of your left hand in the TouchPad zone. Using your right hand, slide your forefinger in a sweeping motion from 12 o’clock to 3 o’clock. To reverse the rotation, move your forefinger from 3 o’clock to 12 o’clock. NOTE: Rotate is intended for specific apps where you can manipulate an object or image. Rotate may not be functional for all apps.
Flicking (select models only) Flicking allows you to navigate through screens or quickly scroll through documents. ● Place three fingers on the TouchPad zone and flick your fingers in a light, quick motion up, down, left or right. 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.
Top-edge swipe The top-edge swipe allows you to open apps available on the Start screen. IMPORTANT: ● When an app is active, the top-edge gesture varies depending on the app. Slide your finger gently from the top edge to display available apps. Left-edge swipe The left-edge swipe reveals your open apps so that you can switch to them quickly. ● Swipe from the left edge of the TouchPad to switch between 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 using touch gestures. The keyboard also allows you to use action keys and hot keys to perform specific functions. TIP: The Windows logo key on the keyboard allows you to quickly return to the Start screen from an open app or the Desktop. Pressing the Windows logo key again will return you to the previous screen.
Icon Key Description f5 Turns the radiance backlight keyboard feature off or on. NOTE: To conserve battery power, turn off this feature. f6 Plays the previous track of an audio CD or the previous section of a DVD or a BD. f7 Begins, pauses, or resumes playback of an audio CD, a DVD, or a BD. f8 Plays the next track of an audio CD or the next section of a DVD or a BD. f9 Decreases speaker volume incrementally as long as you hold down the key.
Using the hot keys A hot key is a combination of the fn key and the esc key, the b key, or the spacebar. To use a hot key: ▲ 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. Control the bass settings. fn+b Enables or disables the Beats Audio bass settings.
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 Microsoft® Windows has two power-saving states, Sleep and Hibernation. ● Sleep–The Sleep state is automatically initiated after a period of inactivity when running on battery power or on external power. Your work is saved to memory, allowing you to resume your work very quickly. You can also initiate Sleep manually. For more information, see Initiating and exiting Sleep on page 40.
● Press a key on the keyboard. ● Tap or swipe the TouchPad. When the computer exits Sleep, the power lights turn on and the computer returns to the screen where you stopped working. NOTE: If you have set a password to be required on wakeup, you must enter your Windows password before the computer will return to the screen.
Using the power meter and power settings The power meter is located on the Desktop. 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, on the Desktop, point over the power meter icon. ● To use Power Options, or to change the power plan, click the power meter icon and select an item from the list.
Selecting a power plan A power plan manages how the computer uses power and helps you conserve power and maximize performance. To change the power plan, from the Start screen, type power, select Settings, and then select Power Options. The following power plans are available: ● HP Recommended (recommended). Automatically balances performance with energy consumption on capable hardware. ● Power saver. Saves power by reducing system performance and screen brightness where possible. ● High performance.
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. If the computer has a charged battery installed and the AC adapter is disconnected from the computer, the computer automatically switches to 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.
Help and Support provides the following tools and information about the battery: ● Battery test ● Information on battery types, specifications, life cycles, and capacity To access battery information, select the HP Support Assistant app on the Start screen, and then select Battery and performance. 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.
Resolving a low battery level when no power source is available Save your work and shut down the computer. 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 AC adapter to the computer and to external power. 2. Exit Hibernation by pressing the power button.
WARNING! Do not charge the computer battery while you are onboard aircraft. ● When charging or calibrating a battery ● When installing or modifying system software ● When writing information to a disc (select models only) ● When running Disk Defragmenter on computers with internal hard drives ● When performing a backup or recovery When you connect the computer to external AC power: ● The battery begins to charge. ● The display brightness increases.
HP CoolSense (select models only) HP CoolSense automatically detects when the computer is not in a stationary position and adjusts performance and fan settings to keep the surface temperature of your computer at the optimum level of comfort. 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.
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.
Shutting down (turning off) the computer CAUTION: Unsaved information is lost when the computer shuts down. Be sure to save your work before shutting down the computer. The Shut down command closes all open programs, including the operating system, and then turns off the display and computer.
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 or a solid state drive that stores your computer's software, operating system, and also provides storage for all of your personal files. Some computers have a built-in optical drive that allows you to read or write to a CD, DVD, or (on select models) Blu-ray Disc (BD).
▲ 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 displays on the Desktop and an icon appears in the notification area, letting you know that the device is recognized by the computer.
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.
Using optical drives An optical disc drive uses laser light to read or store large amounts of information. Some drives can only read information, but others can also write (burn) information onto a blank disc. Use these tips for best performance of your optical drive: ● When the battery is the only source of power, be sure the battery is sufficiently charged before writing to media. ● Do not type on the keyboard or move the computer while an optical drive is writing to a disc.
such a BD movie release is inserted in the drive. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the update. ● If lines appear on the display when viewing a BD, they may be caused by interference from the wireless network. To resolve the issue, close any open applications and turn off your wireless feature. Inserting an optical disc 1. Turn on the computer. 2. Press the release button (1) on the drive bezel to release the disc tray. 3. Pull out the tray (2). 4.
Removing an optical disc 1. Press the release button (1) on the drive bezel to release the disc tray, and then gently pull out the tray (2) until it stops. 2. 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. 3. 56 Close the disc tray and place the disc in a protective case.
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 in your computer. Network 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. Click the Share tab on the Libraries window, and then click 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 and by replacing a hard drive or adding memory. It also provides information about updating your programs and drivers, instructions for cleaning your computer, and tips for traveling with your computer.
● Do not type on the keyboard or move the computer while an optical drive is writing to a disc. The write process is sensitive to vibration. ● Before you move a computer that is connected to an external hard drive, initiate Sleep and allow the screen to clear, or properly disconnect the external hard drive. Replacing a hard drive CAUTION: Drives are fragile computer components that must be handled with care.
5. Slide the hard drive tab (3) to the left, and then lift the hard drive out of the hard drive bay. NOTE: After removing the hard drive from the computer, you must remove the hard drive bracket to access the hard drive itself. 6. Remove the 4 screws (1) from the hard drive bracket. 7. Remove the hard drive bracket (2) from the hard drive. 8. Disconnect the hard drive cable (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 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 short time after the end of one of these events, HP 3D DriveGuard returns the hard drive to normal operation.
Adding or replacing memory modules Adding memory can help improve your computer's performance. Your computer is like your physical work area. The hard drive is the filing cabinet where you store your work and the memory is the desk where you work. When your memory isn’t big enough to hold all your work easily, like a desk overflowing with work, your productivity slows down. A great solution to improve performance is to expand the amount of memory you have in your computer.
b. Grasp the edge of the memory module (2), and then gently pull the module out of the memory module slot. CAUTION: To prevent damage to the memory module, hold the memory module by the edges only. Do not touch the components on the memory module. To protect a memory module after removal, place it in an electrostatic-safe container. 8. Insert a new memory module: CAUTION: To prevent damage to the memory module, hold the memory module by the edges only. Do not touch the components on the memory module. a.
9. Replace the service door. 10. Replace the battery. 11. Turn the computer right-side up, and then reconnect external power and external devices. 12. Turn on the computer.
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. For example, older graphics components might not work well with the most recent gaming software.
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. ◦ Remove all discs and all external media cards, such as digital storage cards, from the computer. ◦ Turn off, and then disconnect all external devices. ◦ Remove any media from the drive before removing the drive from a drive bay.
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 apps, 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.
Using passwords A password is a group of characters that you choose to secure your computer information and to protect online transactions. 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.
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). 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 displayed as it is set, entered, changed, or deleted.
Using HP SimplePass (select models only) HP SimplePass provides an easy-to-use interface to help secure your computer and simplify the way you log on to your computer and password-protected websites. Use a registered fingerprint to: ● Log on to Windows. ● Access websites and other programs that require a logon. ● Set up a single sign-on service that allows you to use a registered fingerprint to create credentials for any application that requires a user name and password.
Using Internet security software When you use your computer to access email, a network, or the Internet, you potentially expose your computer to computer viruses, spyware, and other online threats. To help protect your computer, Internet security software that includes antivirus and firewall features may be preinstalled on your computer as a trial offer. To provide ongoing protection against newly discovered viruses and other security risks, security software must be kept up to date.
Installing software updates HP, Microsoft Windows, and third-party software installed on your computer should be regularly updated to correct security problems and improve software performance. For more information, see Updating programs and drivers on page 65. Installing Windows updates Updates to the operating system and other software may have become available after the computer left the factory. Microsoft sends out alerts regarding critical updates.
Using an optional security cable lock A security cable lock, which is purchased separately, is designed to act as a deterrent, but it may not prevent the computer from being mishandled or stolen. Security cable locks are only one of several methods that should be employed as part of a complete security solution to help maximize theft protection. The security cable slot on your computer may look slightly different from the illustration in this section.
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. Click the diagnostic test you want to run, and then follow the on-screen instructions. NOTE: 76 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.
Creating recovery media and backups Recovery after a system failure is only as good as your most recent backup. 1. After you successfully set up the computer, create HP Recovery media. This step creates a backup of the HP Recovery partition on the computer. The backup can be used to reinstall the original operating system in cases where the hard drive is corrupted or has been replaced.
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. HP Recovery media can be used to perform system recovery if the hard drive becomes corrupted. System recovery reinstalls the original operating system and the software programs installed at the factory, and then configures the settings for the programs. HP Recovery media can also be used to customize the system or aid in the replacement of a hard drive.
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. Click Change PC settings in the bottom-right corner of the screen, and then select General from the PC settings screen. 4. 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.
Using the HP Recovery partition to recover a minimized image (select models only) The HP Recovery partition (select models only) allows you to perform a minimized image recovery without the need for recovery discs or a recovery USB flash drive. This type of recovery can only be used if the hard drive is still working. 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.
Changing the computer boot order If computer does not restart in HP Recovery Manager, you can change the computer boot order, which is the order of devices listed in BIOS where the computer looks for startup information. You can change the selection for an optical drive or a USB flash drive. To change the boot order: 1. Insert the HP Recovery media you created. 2. Restart the computer. 3. Press and hold esc while the computer is restarting, and then press f9 for boot options. 4.
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.
Operating environment Factor Metric U.S.
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 6 AC adapter, testing 47 action keys decrease screen brightness 36 Help and Support 36 identifying 13 increase screen brightness 36 next track or section 37 play, pause, resume 37 previous track or section 37 radiance backlight keyboard 37 switch screen image 36 volume down 37 volume mute 37 volume up 37 wireless 37 airport security devices 58 antivirus software, using 71 audio functions, checking 25 audio-in (microphone) jack 7 audio-out (headphone) jack 7 B b key, identifying 13, 23 ba
hard drive bay, identifying 15 hard drive light 5 HDMI configuring audio 28 HDMI port, connecting 27 HDMI port, identifying 7, 23 Hibernation exiting 41 initiated during critical battery level 45 initiating 41 high-definition devices, connecting 27, 28 hot keys bass settings 38 description 38 display system information 38 TouchPad accent light 38 using 38 HP 3D DriveGuard 61 HP and third-party software updates, installing 72 HP Recovery Manager 82 correcting boot problems 84 starting 83 HP Recovery media cr
R recovery 80, 81 discs 79, 83 HP Recovery Manager 82 media 83 starting 83 supported discs 79 system 82 USB flash drive 83 using HP Recovery media 79 recovery media creating 79 creating using HP Recovery Manager 79 recovery partition 83 removing 84 recycle computer 80, 81 refresh 81 computer 80 regulatory information regulatory label 16 wireless certification labels 16 remove everything and reinstall Windows 81 reset computer 80, 81 steps 81 restore Windows File History 80 RJ-45 (network) jack, identifying
WLAN antennas, identifying WLAN device 16, 18 WLAN label 16 Z zooming TouchPad gesture 9 32 Index 91