Getting Started
The only warranties for Hewlett-Packard products and services are set forth in the express statements accompanying such products and services. Nothing herein should be construed as constituting an additional warranty. HP shall not be liable for technical or editorial errors or omissions contained herein. HP assumes no responsibility for the use or reliability of its software on equipment that is not furnished by HP. This document contains proprietary information that is protected by copyright.
Table of Contents Setting Up Your Computer ........................................................................... 1 Checking the Computer Installation .............................................................................. 1 Connecting Speakers or Microphones .......................................................................... 4 Connecting to a Network............................................................................................ 6 Connecting a Modem ..........................
iv Getting Started (features vary by model)
Setting Up Your Computer WARNING: The power supply is preset for the country/region in which you purchased your computer. If you move, please check the voltage requirements for your new location before plugging the computer into an AC power outlet. WARNING: Please read “Safety Notices” in the Regulatory and Safety Information document before installing and connecting the computer to the electrical power system. WARNING: To reduce the risk of serious injury, read the Safety & Comfort Guide.
Protect the monitor, computer, and connected accessories by connecting all power cords to a power surge protection device. Use a power strip specifically labeled as having surge protection, an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), or a similar device. If the computer has a television tuner, or a modem or telephone connection, protect the computer by using surge protection with these signal inputs as well.
Network Modem Icon/label Description and function ETHERNET Ethernet LAN connector to connect to an Ethernet (RJ-45) local area network (LAN) hub or any broadband connection. This wired LAN connector is a network interface adapter (also called a network interface card, or NIC). The green LED indicates a valid connection. Icon/label Description and function Modem (Line In RJ-11) (select models only) to connect the computer modem to a telephone wall jack for dial-up connections to the Internet.
Connecting Speakers or Microphones Speakers are available separately, or may be included with the monitor (select models only). Headphones and microphones are available separately. Your computer model may include audio connectors on the back of the computer. Some computers also have connectors on the front of the computer.
Connecting a stereo speaker system To connect active speakers, such as left/right stereo speakers or a 2.1 system of two speakers and a subwoofer, to the computer: 1 Ensure that the computer is turned off, and that the speaker system is turned off and unplugged. 2 Connect the speaker system cable to the lime green Audio Line Out connector that matches the back of your computer. Or For 2.
Connecting to a Network This section describes connecting to a network through a wired or wireless connection. Setting up a wired Ethernet network connection The Ethernet (RJ-45) connector on the back of the computer provides a high-speed or broadband connection to a network. After you connect this interface to a network, such as a Local Area Network (LAN), you can connect to the Internet through the network.
Connecting a Modem (Select models only) The modem connects the computer to the telephone line. Use it to connect to an ISP that provides a telephone dial-up connection to the Internet. If you use a network connection, you may not need a modem connection. NOTE: Your computer may not come with a modem. The modem may be a connector on the back of the computer or it may be an external device that plugs into a computer USB connector.
Video and audio input Icon/label Description and function S-Video S-video In connector to connect video input from a TV set-top box output connector. Composite Video Composite Video In connector (yellow) to connect video input from a TV set-top box. S-Video 2 Secondary S-video In connector to connect video input from a VCR, video camera, or other analog video source.
Television output Television input Icon/label Description and function Analog Video Analog Video Out connector to connect S-video or composite video connector to a TV. Icon/label Description and function TV/Cable Ant TV In connector to connect TV antenna or cable input from wall outlet with no set-top box. ATSC TV In connector for TV cable or antenna, to receive ATSC (Advanced Television System Committee) channels, which are over-the-air digital transmission channels.
Connecting the TV signal source without a set-top box To connect the computer into an existing setup for the TV signal source without a set-top box, insert (add) a splitter (B) to route the coaxial TV signal cable from the wall outlet (A) to the computer connector (C).
Connecting the TV signal source with a set-top box and using S-video or composite video cable To use video output from the set-top box (F), add the cables to route video and audio to the computer: Do not detach any cables from the existing setup. Connect an S-video cable (or you can use an S-video-to-composite cable adapter) to the S-Video In connector (H) on the computer. Connect audio cables to the Audio In right (red) and left (white) connectors (J) on the computer.
Using an infrared receiver (IR) blaster (Select models only) If you have a cable TV or satellite TV set-top box, you can control the set-top box from the computer by using the remote control sensor cable/IR blaster (select models only) and the connector on the computer (not available on all models). Remove the tape (1) on the end of the blaster, adhere it to the IR receiver on the set-top box (2), and connect it to the IR OUT connector (3) on the back of the computer.
Preparing to Use Your Computer After you have completed the steps on the setup poster, you are ready to turn on the computer. NOTE: Do not connect or add other devices to the computer until after you turn on the computer for the first time and complete the initial setup. To turn on the computer: 1 Turn on the monitor. 2 Turn on the computer. 3 Turn on the external speakers, if they are present.
Turning Off the Computer For best results when using Windows 7, do not shut down the computer except when you must turn off the power for safety reasons: to make repairs, to install new hardware or cards in the computer, or to change a battery. As an alternative to shutting down the computer, you can lock it or put it into either Sleep or Hibernate mode, if it is available. You can set the power management timers to put the computer automatically into Sleep or Hibernate mode.
1 2 Refer to “Setting Up Your Computer” on page 1 to make the hardware connections. You need: For a network connection, see “Connecting to a Network” on page 6. To check a wireless LAN device installation, see “Internet access” on page 37. For a modem, see “Connecting a Modem” on page 7. To connect to the Internet: Sign up with an ISP. If you already have an account with an ISP, skip this step and follow the instructions provided by the ISP.
Adjusting the Speaker Volume There are several ways to adjust volume. Use the Volume icon on the Windows 7 taskbar to set speaker volume. Then, you can adjust the volume by using: The Volume knob or buttons on the keyboard (select models only). The Volume knob on the speakers (select models only). To set speaker volume, use the Volume icon on the taskbar: 1 Right-click the Volume icon on the taskbar, and then click Open Volume Mixer. The Volume Mixer settings window opens.
Protecting Your Computer Protect your computer, personal settings, and data from a variety of risks by using: Passwords. Antivirus software. Firewall software. Critical security updates. NOTE: Security solutions are designed to act as deterrents, but they may not be able to prevent software attacks or to prevent the computer from being mishandled or stolen.
Using antivirus software When you use the computer for e-mail, network, or Internet access, you expose it to computer viruses. Computer viruses can disable or damage the operating system, software programs, or computer utilities. Antivirus software can detect most viruses, remove them, and, in most cases, repair any damage that they have caused. To provide ongoing protection against newly discovered viruses, you must keep the antivirus software up to date.
Installing critical security updates CAUTION: To reduce the risk of information damage or loss from security breaches and computer viruses, install all critical updates from Microsoft as soon as you receive an alert. Additional updates to the operating system and other software may have become available after the computer was shipped. Download all available updates and install them onto the computer.
Transferring Files and Settings from an Old Computer to Your New Computer You can copy files from the old computer to your new computer by using CDs or DVDs, memory sticks, or personal media drives, or by using the Windows Easy Transfer cable. To transfer files and copy certain settings, such as Web browser Favorites and address books, use Windows Easy Transfer software, which is included with Windows 7.
Special Features of Your Computer Using the Memory Card Reader (Select models only) Your computer may come with a multi-format memory card reader (optional, select models only). Digital cameras and other digital imaging devices use memory cards, or media, to store digital picture files. The memory card reader can read from and write to a variety of types of memory cards and the IBM Microdrive disk drive. The card reader is accessible directly on the front of the computer.
To use the memory card reader: 1 Insert the media into the card slot until it stops. The activity light (A) on the memory card reader lights, and the computer automatically detects the media. NOTE: You must insert media correctly. Note the direction of the notched corner on the media. For more information, open the Help and Support Center or refer to the Support Web site; see “Getting More Information” on page 25. Also: 2 CompactFlash and Microdrive media are keyed and cannot be inserted incorrectly.
Using a Vertical CD/DVD Drive (Select models only) Your computer may have an optical disc drive that is installed in a vertical position. Press the Eject button on or near the drive door (A) to eject the CD/DVD tray. Place a standard-sized disc in the tray with the label facing out, and then press the front of the tray to close it.
Using the Remote Control (Select models only) NOTE: Only use alkaline batteries in the remote control. With your remote control, you can open Windows Media Center to view television broadcasts, to record and play TV programs, and to play music, movies, or video. To open Windows Media Center, point the remote control at the remote control sensor on the top front of the computer, and press the Windows Media Center Start button on the remote control.
Getting More Information Using the Help and Support Center (Select models only) Information about your computer is in the Help and Support Center. Here, you can find links to driver updates, access to technical support options, and information about commonly asked questions. To open the Help and Support Center: Press the Help button (select models only) on your keyboard. Or Click the Start button, and then click Help and Support.
Finding Onscreen Guides (Select models only) You can find onscreen guides for your computer in the User Guides folder. 1 Click the Start button. 2 Click All Programs. 3 Click User Guides. Click an item to view or use it. NOTE: If there are no guide titles listed in the folder, your computer has no onscreen guides. Using the PC Help & Tools Folder The PC Help & Tools folder contains special utilities for computer owners, such as support information and programs.
Using the Computer with Safety and Comfort WARNING: To reduce the risk of serious injury, read the Safety & Comfort Guide. It describes proper workstation setup, posture, and health and work habits for computer users. It also provides important electrical and mechanical safety information. Before you begin using the computer, arrange the computer and your work area to maintain your comfort and productivity.
28 Getting Started (features vary by model)
Troubleshooting and Maintenance This section contains: Troubleshooting tables in “Troubleshooting Computer Problems” below. Software repair information in “Software Troubleshooting” on page 45. Maintenance information and guidelines in “Maintenance” on page 48. For more information, refer to the Help and Support Center or access the Support Web site; see “Getting More Information” on page 25.
Computer does not start Symptom Possible solution Computer will not turn on or start. Ensure that the cables connecting the computer to the external power source are plugged in properly. When the cables connecting the computer to the external power source are plugged in properly, and the wall outlet is functioning, the green power supply light on the back of the computer should be on; if it is not, refer to the Limited Warranty and Support Guide to contact Support.
Power Symptom Possible solution Error message: Invalid system disk or Non-System disk or Disk error. When drive activity stops, remove the disk and press the spacebar on the keyboard. The computer should start up. Computer does not turn off when the On button is pressed. Press and hold the On button until the computer turns off. Computer shuts down automatically. The computer may be in an exceedingly hot environment. Let it cool down. Check Power Settings.
Keyboard and mouse (with cable) Symptom Possible solution Keyboard commands and typing are not recognized by the computer. Turn off the computer by using the mouse, unplug and reconnect the keyboard to the back of your computer, and then turn on your computer. Mouse (with cable) does not work or is not detected. Unplug and reconnect the mouse cable to your computer. Cursor does not respond to mouse movement.
Keyboard and mouse (with cable) (continued) Symptom Possible solution Cursor responds slowly, moves only vertically or horizontally, or does not track smoothly. For a mouse with a roller ball: Clean the roller ball: Remove the roller ball cover from bottom of mouse (rotate it counterclockwise), remove the ball, and clean it with a damp, lint-free cloth (not paper). Also clean the rollers on which the ball moves. Use a mouse pad or other rough surface under the mouse.
Wireless keyboard and mouse (continued) Symptom Possible solution Wireless keyboard or mouse does not work or is not detected. (continued) Resynchronize the keyboard and mouse to the receiver: The receiver, wireless keyboard, and wireless mouse shown in the illustrations are examples; your models may vary. IMPORTANT: During these steps, place the wireless keyboard and wireless mouse on the same level as the receiver, within 30 cm of the receiver, and away from interference from other devices.
Wireless keyboard and mouse (continued) Symptom Wireless keyboard or mouse does not work or is not detected. (continued) Possible solution 3 Check that the mouse is on (B), and push and hold the Connect button (C) on the underside of the mouse for 5 to 10 seconds until the LED (A) on the receiver lights or stops flashing. Off B On C Connect NOTE: The receiver connection session times out after 60 seconds.
Audio and speakers Symptom Possible solution No sound is produced. If you use an HDMI connector on the graphics card (select models only) to connect your display (monitor) to the computer, you should also connect analog speakers to the computer Audio Line Out connector if you want to hear sound during the initial setup of the computer. Refer to the setup poster to connect analog speakers. Press the Mute button on the keyboard to see whether the Mute feature is enabled.
Internet access Symptom Possible solution I cannot connect to the Internet. Contact your ISP for assistance. Verify that you are using the proper cables for your Internet connection type. Your computer may have a dial-up modem and an Ethernet network adapter (also called a network interface card, or NIC). A modem uses a standard telephone cable while the network adapter uses a network cable to connect to a local area network (LAN).
Internet access (continued) Symptom Possible solution Internet programs do not start automatically. Log in to your ISP, and start the desired program. CD and DVD drives Symptom Possible solution The CD or DVD drive cannot read a disc, or it takes too long to start. Ensure the disc is inserted with the label facing out and centered in the tray. Wait at least 30 seconds for the drive to determine the type of media. Clean the disc with a disc cleaning kit, available from most computer stores.
CD and DVD drives (continued) Symptom Possible solution I cannot create (record) a disc. Ensure the disc is inserted with the label facing out and centered in the tray. Verify that you are using the correct disc type (media) for the drive. Try a different brand of disc. Ensure the disc is clean and undamaged. If recording stopped during a recording session, the disc may be damaged; use a different disc. Use the correct type of disc for the type of files you are recording.
CD and DVD drives (continued) Symptom Possible solution I cannot create (record) a disc. (continued) If you are on a network, copy the files from a network drive to your hard disk drive first, and then record them to disc. I cannot play a DVD movie on a DVD player. Close all programs and windows, and then restart your computer. Your DVD player cannot play video files that were recorded onto the DVD as data files. To play a movie properly, use a video recording program.
Hardware installation Symptom Possible solution A new device is not recognized as part of the system. Install the device driver from the CD provided with the device, or download and install the driver from the device manufacturer Web site. You may need an updated driver for Windows 7. Contact the device vendor directly for an update. For Hewlett-Packard peripheral devices, visit the HP Web site at http://www.hp.
Hardware installation (continued) Symptom Possible solution A device does not work after installing a new device. To resolve a device conflict, you may need to disable one of the devices or uninstall an old device driver: 1 Click the Start button. 2 Type Device Manager into the Start Search box, and then click Device Manager to open the Device Manager window. 3 Click the plus sign (+) next to the problem device and check for an exclamation point in a yellow circle near the device icon.
Wireless devices Symptom Possible solution Bluetooth device is not working. Ensure the device and your computer are the correct distance apart—not too far and not too near. For the correct distance, refer to the device instructions. Remove and then reinstall the device: 1 Click the Start button, and then click Control Panel. 2 Click Hardware and Sound, and then click Bluetooth Devices. 3 Select the device that is not working, and then click Remove.
Remote control Symptom Remote sensor is not receiving a signal from the remote control. Possible solution Be sure to point the remote control at the sensor. Be sure the remote control has fresh batteries. For an external sensor with a USB connector, try enabling the IR connection by following these steps: 1 Click the Start button. 2 Type Device Manager into the Start Search box, and then click Device Manager to open the Device Manager window.
Memory card reader (continued) Symptom Possible solution Memory card reader cannot read the memory card. (continued) Ensure the memory card is one of the supported types: CompactFlash (I, II, and Microdrive), Memory Stick, Memory Stick Pro, MultiMedia, Secure Digital, SmartMedia, or xD. Some models may support additional types, such as SDHC (Secure Digital High-Capacity) memory cards. Ensure the memory card is fully inserted into the correct slot.
Complete the following procedure to update a driver, or to revert to an earlier version of the driver if the new one does not solve your problem: 1 Click the Start button. 2 Type Device Manager into the Start Search box, and then click Device Manager to open the Device Manager window. 3 Click the plus sign (+) to expand the type of device you want to update or rollback. (For example, DVD/CD-ROM drives). 4 Double-click the specific item (for example, HP DVD Writer 640b). 5 Click the Driver tab.
For more information about software restore points: 1 Click the Start button, and then click Help and Support. 2 Type system restore in the Search Help box, and then press Enter. Software program and hardware driver reinstallation If an individual factory-installed software program or hardware driver is damaged, you can reinstall it by using the Recovery Manager program (select models only).
Maintenance This section includes information about tasks you can perform to help ensure trouble-free operation of your computer, and to ease the recovery of important information on your computer if problems arise in the future. Maintenance tasks It is important that you perform simple maintenance of your computer to ensure that it works at peak performance.
Creating data backup discs Use CD or DVD recording (or burning) software that is installed on your computer to create backup discs of important information, including personal files, e-mail messages, and Web site bookmarks. You can also move data to an external hard disk drive. When writing data to a backup disc, use software that includes write verification functionality. This feature compares the data on your hard disk drive with the data copied to the disc to ensure it is an exact copy.
Cleaning the computer vents Air vents keep the computer and monitor cool. To maintain efficient air flow, keep these vents clean by using a small battery-powered vacuum cleaner. (A battery-powered vacuum cleaner eliminates the risk of electric shock.) 1 Run the vacuum over the vents in the computer case and the monitor case. 2 Remove any debris that has accumulated in and around the computer connectors (for example, the Ethernet and USB connectors).
Creating recovery discs Complete the procedure described in this section to create a set of recovery discs from the recovery image stored on your hard disk drive. This image contains the operating system and software program files that were originally installed on your computer at the factory. You can create only one set of recovery discs for your computer. Furthermore, the recovery discs you create can be used only with your computer.
System recovery from the Windows 7 Start Menu If the computer is working, and Windows 7 is responding, use these steps to perform a system recovery. NOTE: System recovery deletes all data and programs you created or installed after purchase. Therefore, ensure you have backed up, to a removable disc, any data you want to keep. 1 Turn off the computer. 2 Disconnect all peripheral devices from the computer, except the monitor, keyboard, and mouse. 3 Turn on the computer.
4 As soon as you see the initial company logo screen appear, repeatedly press the F11 key on your keyboard until the Windows is Loading Files… message appears on the screen. 5 Under I need help immediately, click System Recovery. 6 If you are prompted to back up your files, and you have not done so, select Back up your files first (recommended), and then click Next. Otherwise, select Recover without backing up your files, and then click Next. System recovery begins.
9 When the Recovery Manager is finished, remove all recovery discs from the system. 10 Click Finish to restart the computer. 11 After restarting the computer, see “Preparing to Use Your Computer” on page 13. Performing the Post-Recovery Procedure 1 At the Welcome to Microsoft Windows screen, follow the onscreen setup instructions. 2 Follow the instructions in “Preparing to Use Your Computer” on page 13.
Index A adapters HDMI-to-DVI 3 VGA-to-DVI 3 antivirus software 18 audio A/V In 8 connecting Audio Line In 4 Audio Line Out 4 speakers 5 left and right connectors 8 troubleshooting 36 B backup 49 buttons eject CD/DVD drive 23 Off, See turning off computer 14 C card reader, memory 21 CD/DVD drive troubleshooting 38–40 using vertical 23 cleaning 49 Composite video connector 8 computer cleaning 49 Help & Tools 26 setting up 1 transferring files 20 turning on the computer 13 connecting Ethernet 6 modem 7 moni
E Ethernet LAN connector 3 F firewall 18 H hardware troubleshooting installation 41–42 HDMI-to-DVI 3 headphones connecting 5 Help and Support 25 Hibernate mode 14 HP Advisor 26 I Internet connection 6–7 security 18 troubleshooting 37–38 IR blaster 12 connection, enable 44 receiver 12 K keyboard wired connecting 2 troubleshooting 32 wireless troubleshooting 33–35 L LAN (local area network) antenna 6 connecting 3 connecting wireless LAN device 6 setting up 6 LightScribe 23 locking the computer 14 M main
startup troubleshooting 30 Support Web site 25 surge protector 2 S-video In connector 8 System 46 System performance troubleshooting 42 System recovery 50 System Restore, Microsoft 46 system recovery discs, making 49, 50 T television see TV transferring information to your new computer 20 troubleshooting audio 36 CD/DVD drive 38–40 hardware installation 41–42 Internet connection 37–38 keyboard (wired) 32 keyboard (wireless) 33–35 memory card reader 44 monitor 31 mouse (wired) 32 mouse (wireless) 33–35 powe
The power to make a change Thank you for your purchase. HP is dedicated to producing the highest quality, best performing, and easiest to use PCs in the world. HP also designed this product with the environment in mind. But to reduce its impact even further, we need your help. Let’s work together to make a change.
