User Guide
© Copyright 2013 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. AMD is a trademark of Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. 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 Revert to the familiar Start screen (select models only) ....................................................................... 1 Visit the HP Apps Store (select models only) ....................................................................................... 1 Best practices ..............................................
Connecting to a local area network (LAN) ......................................................................... 19 4 Enjoying entertainment features ................................................................................................................. 20 Multimedia features ............................................................................................................................ 20 Using the webcam ..............................................................................
6 Managing power ............................................................................................................................................ 37 Initiating Sleep and Hibernation ......................................................................................................... 37 Manually initiating and exiting Sleep .................................................................................. 37 Manually initiating and exiting Hibernation (select models only) ....................
Using antivirus software ..................................................................................................... 50 Using firewall software ....................................................................................................... 50 Installing software updates ................................................................................................................. 50 Installing critical security updates .....................................................................
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 you set up your computer, fun things to do with your computer, and where to find additional HP resources. Revert to the familiar Start screen (select models only) HP Quick Start gives you the option to use the familiar Start menu from the Windows desktop.
Fun things to do 2 ● You know that 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 video devices by using an HDMI cable on page 23. ● You know that 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 22.
More HP resources You have already used Setup Instructions to turn on the computer and locate this guide. To locate resources that provide product details, how-to information, and more, use this table.
Resource Contents Limited Warranty* ● Specific warranty information about this computer To access this guide: 1. From the Start screen, type support, and then select the HP Support Assistant app. 2. Select My computer, and then select Warranty and services. – or – Go to http://www.hp.com/go/orderdocuments. *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.
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 control panel, and then select Control Panel. 2. Select System and Security, select System, and then click Device Manager in the left column. A list reveals all the devices installed on your computer.
Right side Component (1) Description Audio-out (headphone)/Audio-in (microphone) jack Connects optional powered stereo speakers, headphones, earbuds, a headset, or a television audio cable. Also connects an optional headset microphone. This jack does not support optional microphone-only devices. WARNING! To reduce the risk of personal injury, adjust the volume before putting on headphones, earbuds, or a headset.
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 (1) Enables airflow to cool internal components. (3) HDMI port Connects an optional video or audio device, such as a high-definition television, any compatible digital or audio component, or a high-speed HDMI device. (4) USB 3.0 port Each USB 3.
Display Component Description (1) Turns off the display and initiates Sleep if the display is closed while the power is on. Internal display switch NOTE: The internal display switch is not visible from the outside of the computer. (2) WLAN antennas (2)* Send and receive wireless signals to communicate with wireless local area networks (WLANs). (3) Webcam light On: The webcam is in use. (4) Webcam Records video and captures photographs.
Top TouchPad Component (1) Description 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 29. (2) Left TouchPad button Functions like the left button on an external mouse. (3) Right TouchPad button Functions like the right button on an external mouse.
Lights Component (1) 10 Description Power light ● On: The computer is on. ● Blinking: The computer is in the Sleep state, a powersaving state. The computer shuts off power to the display and other unneeded components. ● Off: The computer is off or in Hibernation. Hibernation is a power-saving state that uses the least amount of power. (2) Caps lock light On: Caps lock is on, which switches the keys to all capital letters. (3) Mute light ● Amber: Computer sound is off.
Buttons Component (1) Description Power button ● When the computer is off, press the button to turn on the computer. ● When the computer is on, press the button briefly to initiate Sleep. ● When the computer is in the Sleep state, press the button briefly to exit Sleep. ● When the computer is in Hibernation, press the button 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 Reveals system information when pressed in combination with the fn key. (2) fn key Executes frequently used system functions when pressed in combination with the spacebar, or the esc key. (3) Windows key Returns you to the Start screen from an open app or the Windows desktop. NOTE: Pressing the Windows key again will return you to the previous screen. (4) Action keys Execute frequently used system functions.
Bottom Component Description (1) Battery lock latch Unlocks the battery. (2) Battery bay Holds the battery. (3) Battery release latch Releases the battery. (4) Vents (3) Enable airflow to cool internal components. (5) Speakers (2) Produce sound. Labels The labels affixed to the computer provide information you may need when you troubleshoot system problems or travel internationally with the computer.
● Service label—Provides important information to identify your computer. When contacting support, you will probably be asked for the serial number, and possibly for the product number or the model number. Locate these numbers before you contact support. NOTE: Your service labels will resemble one of the examples shown below. Refer to the illustration that most closely matches the service label on 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.
For more information, from the Start screen, type help, and then select Help and Support. 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 content on the same network: 1. From the Windows desktop, open File Explorer.
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 help, and then select Help and Support. 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 white. 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. 2.
Connecting to a wired network 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.
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. Multimedia features Here are some of the entertainment features on your computer. Component Description (1) Webcam light On: The webcam is in use.
Component (5) Description Audio-out (headphone)/Audio-in (microphone) jack Connects optional powered stereo speakers, headphones, earbuds, a headset, or a television audio cable. Also connects an optional headset microphone. This jack does not support optional microphone-only devices. WARNING! To reduce the risk of personal injury, adjust the volume before putting on headphones, earbuds, or a headset. For additional safety information, refer to the Regulatory, Safety, and Environmental Notices.
Using audio On your computer, you can play music CDs on an optional external drive, 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. Connecting speakers You can attach wired speakers to your computer by connecting them to a USB port or to the audioout (headphone) jack on your computer or on a docking station.
To check the recording functions on your computer, follow these steps: 1. From the Start screen, type sound, and then select Sound Recorder. 2. Click Start Recording and speak into the microphone. 3. Save the file to your desktop. 4. Open a multimedia program and play the recording. To confirm or change the audio settings on your computer, follow these steps: 1. From the Start screen, type control panel, and then select Control Panel from the list of applications. 2.
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. Press f4 to alternate the computer screen image between 4 display states: ● PC screen only: View the screen image on the computer only.
To return the audio stream to the computer speakers: 1. From the Windows desktop, right-click the Speakers icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar, and then click Playback devices. 2. On the Playback tab, click Speakers. 3. Click Set Default, and then click OK.
5 Navigating the screen You can navigate the computer screen in the following ways: ● Touch gestures ● 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 Basics guide included with your computer. The guide provides information on common tasks using the TouchPad, touch screen, or the keyboard.
Tapping To make an on-screen selection, use the tap function on the TouchPad. ● Point to an item on the screen, and then tap one finger on the TouchPad zone to make a selection. Double-tap an item to open it. 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 (pinching) or in (zooming) on images or text. ● Zoom out by placing two fingers apart on the TouchPad zone and then moving your fingers together. ● Zoom in by placing two fingers together on the TouchPad zone and then moving your fingers apart. 2-finger click 2-finger click allows you to make menu selections for an object on the screen.
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 reveal the charms. Top-edge swipe (select models only) The top-edge swipe allows you to display app command options. IMPORTANT: ● When an app is active, the top-edge gesture varies depending on the app.
Left-edge swipe The left-edge swipe accesses your recently opened apps so that you can switch between them quickly. ● Swipe your finger gently from the left edge of the TouchPad. 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.
Scrolling Scrolling is useful for moving the pointer up, down, left, or right on a page or image. ● Place two fingers on the screen and then drag them in an up, down, left, or right motion. Pinching/zooming Pinching and zooming allow you to zoom out or in on images or text. 32 ● Zoom out by placing two fingers apart on the screen and then moving your fingers together. ● Zoom in by placing two fingers together on the screen and then moving your fingers apart.
Rotating (select models only) Rotating allows you to turn items such as photos. ● Anchor the forefinger of your left hand on the object you want to rotate. Using your right hand, slide your forefinger around 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.
Left-edge swipe The left-edge swipe reveals your open apps so that you can switch to them quickly. ● Gently swipe your finger inward from the left edge of the display to switch between apps. Without lifting your finger, swipe back toward the left edge to reveal all open apps. 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. 34 1.
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 key on the keyboard allows you to quickly return to the Start screen from an open app or the Windows desktop. Pressing the Windows key again will return you to the previous screen.
Icon Key Description f7 Decreases speaker volume incrementally as long as you hold down the key. f8 Increases speaker volume incrementally as long as you hold down the key. f9 Plays the previous track of an audio CD or the previous section of a DVD or a BD. f10 Begins, pauses, or resumes playback of an audio CD, a DVD, or a BD. f11 Plays the next track of an audio CD or the next section of a DVD or a BD. f12 Turns the wireless feature on or off.
6 Managing power Your computer can operate on either battery power or external power. When the computer is running on battery power only 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 an optimal power plan to manage how your computer uses and conserves power so that computer performance is balanced with power conservation.
Manually initiating and exiting Hibernation (select models only) You can enable user-initiated Hibernation and change other power settings and timeouts using Power Options. 1. From the Start screen, type power options, select Settings, and then select Power Options from the list of applications. 2. In the left pane, click Choose what the power button does. 3. Click Change Settings that are currently unavailable. 4. In the When I press the power button area, select Hibernate. 5. Click Save changes.
is disconnected from the computer, the computer automatically switches to battery power and the screen brightness decreases to conserve battery life. The battery in the computer slowly discharges when the computer is off and unplugged from external power. Computer battery life varies, depending on power management settings, programs running on the computer, screen brightness, external devices connected to the computer, and other factors.
Conserving battery power Tips for conserving battery power and maximizing battery life: ● Lower the brightness on the display. ● Select the Power saver setting in Power Options. ● Remove a user-replaceable battery from the computer if it will not be used or charged for more than 2 weeks. ● 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.
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. Storing a user-replaceable battery CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to a battery, do not expose it to high temperatures for extended periods of time.
When you connect the computer to external AC power: ● The battery begins to charge. ● The screen brightness increases. ● The power meter icon on the Windows desktop changes appearance. When you disconnect external AC power, the following events occur: ● The computer switches to battery power. ● The screen brightness automatically decreases to save battery life. ● The power meter icon on the Windows desktop changes appearance.
Although you can turn off the computer with the power button, the recommended procedure is to use the Windows Shut down command: NOTE: If the computer is in the Sleep state or in Hibernation, you must first exit Sleep or Hibernation before shutdown is possible by briefly pressing the power button. 1. Save your work and close all open programs. 2. From the Start screen, point to the upper-right or lower-right corner of the screen to reveal the charms. 3.
7 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.
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.
Cleaning the sides or cover To clean the sides or cover, use a soft microfiber cloth or chamois moistened with one of the cleaning solutions listed previously or use an acceptable disposable wipe. NOTE: debris. When cleaning the cover of the computer, use a circular motion to aid in removing dirt and Cleaning the TouchPad, keyboard, or mouse WARNING! To reduce the risk of electric shock or damage to internal components, do not use a vacuum cleaner attachment to clean the keyboard.
and in hazardous locations. If you are uncertain of the policy that applies to the use of a particular device, ask for authorization to use your computer before you turn it on. ● If you are traveling internationally, follow these suggestions: ◦ Check the computer-related customs regulations for each country or region on your itinerary. ◦ Check the power cord and adapter requirements for each location in which you plan to use the computer. Voltage, frequency, and plug configurations vary.
8 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.
If you have installed third-party software after you purchased your computer, regularly update the software. Software companies provide software updates to their products to correct security problems and improve functionality of the software. Securing your wireless network When you set up your wireless network, always enable security features. For more information, see Protecting your WLAN on page 17.
9 Using Setup Utility (BIOS) and HP PC Hardware Diagnostics (UEFI) 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.
To start HP PC Hardware Diagnostics UEFI: 1. Turn on or restart the computer, quickly press esc, and then press f2. The BIOS searches three places for the diagnostics tools in the following order: a. Connected USB drive NOTE: To download the HP PC Hardware Diagnostics (UEFI) tool to a USB drive, see Downloading HP PC Hardware Diagnostics (UEFI) to a USB device on page 54. 2. b. Hard drive c.
10 Backing up, restoring, and recovering This chapter provides information about the following processes: ● Creating recovery media and backups ● Restoring and recovering your system Creating recovery media and backups 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.
separately) to create recovery discs, or you can obtain recovery discs for your computer from support. See the Worldwide Telephone Numbers booklet included with the computer. You can also find contact information from the HP website. Go to http://www.hp.com/support, select your country or region, and follow the on-screen instructions.
For more information, see Removing the HP Recovery partition on page 58. Recovering using HP Recovery Manager HP Recovery Manager software allows you to recover the computer to its original factory state by using the HP Recovery media that you created or by using the HP Recovery partition (select models only). If you have not already created recovery media, see Creating HP Recovery media on page 55.
IMPORTANT: models only). 1. For tablets, connect to the keyboard dock before beginning these steps (select Press f11 while the computer boots. – or – Press and hold f11 as you press the power button. 2. Choose your keyboard layout. 3. Select Troubleshoot from the boot options menu. 4. Select Recovery Manager, and then follow the on-screen instructions. Using HP Recovery media to recover You can use HP Recovery media to recover the original system.
11 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.
12 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 42 action keys decrease screen brightness 35 Help and Support 35 identifying 12 increase screen brightness 35 next track or section 36 play, pause, resume 36 previous track or section 35 switch screen image 35 volume down 36 volume mute 36 volume up 36 wireless 36 antivirus software, using 50 audio features, testing 22 audio-out (headphone)/audio-in (microphone) jack 6, 21 B backing up software and information 51 backups 55 battery discharging 40 disposing 41 low bat
Internet security software, using 49 N network jack, identifying J jacks audio-out (headphone)/audio-in (microphone) 6, 21 network 6 RJ-45 (network) 6 O operating environment 60 original system recovery 57 K keys action 12 esc 12 fn 12 Windows 12 L labels Bluetooth 14 regulatory 14 serial number 14 service 13 wireless certification 14 WLAN 14 LAN, connecting 19 latch, battery release 13 left-edge swipe 34 lights AC adapter 6 caps lock 10 hard drive 7 mute 10 power 7, 10 low battery level 40 M maintenanc
pinching 32 rotating 33 scrolling 32 tapping 31 TouchPad buttons 9 TouchPad gestures pinching 28 scrolling 27 zooming 28 TouchPad zone, identifying 9 traveling with the computer 14, 41, 46 turning off the computer 42 U unresponsive system 42 USB 2.0 ports, identifying 6, 20 USB 3.
