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 .................................................................................................................................... 1 More HP resources ....
4 Enjoying entertainment features ................................................................................................................. 18 Using the webcam .............................................................................................................................. 18 Using audio ........................................................................................................................................ 18 Connecting speakers ..........................................
Conserving battery power .................................................................................................. 32 Identifying low battery levels .............................................................................................. 33 Resolving a low battery level ............................................................................................. 33 Resolving a low battery level when external power is available ........................
Setting Setup Utility (BIOS) passwords ............................................................................. 51 Using Internet security software ......................................................................................................... 51 Using antivirus software ..................................................................................................... 52 Using firewall software ................................................................................................
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 resources.
More HP resources You have already used Setup Instructions to turn on the computer and locate this guide. To locate product details, how-to information, and more, use this table. Resource Contents Setup Instructions ● Overview of computer setup and features. Windows 8 Basics guide ● Overview of using and navigating with Windows 8. Help and Support ● A broad range of how-to information and troubleshooting tips. Safety & Comfort Guide ● Proper workstation setup.
2 Getting to know your computer Finding your hardware and software information Locating hardware To find out what hardware is installed on your computer: 1. From the Start screen, type c, and then select Control Panel. 2. Select System and Security, and then in the System area, click Device Manager. A list displays all the devices installed in your computer.
Component (4) 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.
Component Description (1) External monitor port Connects an external VGA monitor or projector. (2) Vents (2) Enable airflow to cool internal components. NOTE: The computer fan starts up automatically to cool internal components and prevent overheating. It is normal for the internal fan to cycle on and off during routine operation. (3) HDMI port Connects an optional video or audio device, such as a highdefinition television, or any compatible digital or audio device.
Display Component Description (1) WLAN antennas (2)* Send and receive wireless signals to communicate with wireless local area networks (WLANs). (2) Internal microphone (1) Records sound. (3) HP TrueVision HD Webcam Records video, captures still photographs, and allows video conferences and online chat by means of streaming video. To use the webcam, from the Start screen type c, and then select CyberLink YouCam from the list of apps. (4) Webcam light On: The webcam is in use.
Top TouchPad Component Description (1) TouchPad on/off button Turns the TouchPad on or off. (2) TouchPad light ● Amber: 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 and speakers 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 the power button will result in the loss of unsaved information.
Keys Component Description (1) esc key Displays system information when pressed in combination with the fn key. (2) fn key Displays system information when pressed in combination with the esc key. (3) Windows logo key Displays the Windows Start screen. (4) Action keys Execute frequently used system functions. (5) Windows applications key Displays a shortcut menu for items beneath the cursor. (6) num lock key Controls the function of the integrated numeric keypad.
Bottom Component Description (1) Battery bay Holds the battery. (2) Battery release latch Releases the battery from the battery bay. (3) Vents (5) Enable airflow to cool internal components. NOTE: The computer fan starts up automatically to cool internal components and prevent overheating. It is normal for the internal fan to cycle on and off during routine operation.
Labels The labels affixed to the computer provide information you may need when you troubleshoot system problems or travel internationally with the computer. The labels are in easily accessible locations. ● Service label—Provides important information, including the following: Component (1) Product name (2) Serial number (3) Product number (4) Warranty period (5) Model description (select models only) Have this information available when you contact technical support.
3 Connecting to a network Your computer can travel with you wherever you go. But even at home, you can explore the globe and access information from millions of websites using your computer and a wired or wireless network connection. This chapter will help you get connected to that world. Connecting to a wireless network Wireless technology transfers data across radio waves instead of wires.
To use operating system controls: 1. From the Start screen, type n, and then select Settings. 2. Type network and sharing in the search box, and then select Network and Sharing Center. For more information, from the Start screen, type h, and then select Help and Support. Using a WLAN With a WLAN device, you can access a wireless local area network (WLAN), which is composed of other computers and accessories that are linked by a wireless router or a wireless access point.
Setting up a WLAN To set up a WLAN and connect to the Internet, you need the following equipment: ● A broadband modem (either DSL or cable) (1) and high-speed Internet service purchased from an Internet service provider ● A wireless router (2) (purchased separately) ● A wireless computer (3) NOTE: Some modems have a built-in wireless router. Check with your ISP to determine what type of modem you have.
Connecting to a WLAN To connect to a WLAN, follow these steps: 1. Be sure that the WLAN device is on. If the device is on, the wireless light is on (white). If the wireless light is amber, press the wireless button. 2. From the Desktop, tap or click the network status icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar. 3. Select your WLAN from the list. 4. Click Connect. If the WLAN is a security-enabled WLAN, you are prompted to enter a security code.
Connecting to a local area network (LAN) Use a LAN connection if you want to connect the computer directly to a router in your home (instead of working wirelessly), or if you want to connect to an existing network at your office. Connecting to a LAN requires an 8-pin, RJ-45 (network) cable. To connect the network cable, follow these steps: 1. Plug the network cable into the network jack (1) on the computer. 2. Plug the other end of the network cable into a network wall jack (2) or router.
4 Enjoying entertainment features Use your HP computer as an entertainment hub to socialize via the webcam, enjoy and manage your music, and download and watch movies. Or, to make your computer an even more powerful entertainment center, connect external devices like a monitor, projector, or TV, or speakers and headphones.
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 applications. 2. Select Hardware and Sound, and then select Sound. 3. When the Sound window opens, click 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.
To connect an HDMI device to your computer, you need an HDMI cable, sold separately. 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. ● Duplicate: View the screen image simultaneously on both the computer and external device.
Managing your photo, audio, and video files CyberLink PowerDVD (select models only) helps you manage and edit your photo, audio, and video collections. ▲ To open CyberLink Power DVD from the computer Start screen, type c, and then select CyberLink PowerDVD from the list of applications. For more information about using CyberLink PowerDVD, see the PowerDVD software Help.
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. 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. The guide provides information on common tasks using the TouchPad, touch screen, or the keyboard.
To view a demonstration of each gesture: 1. From the Start screen, type c to display the Apps list. Select Control Panel, and then select Hardware and Sound. 2. Select Synaptics TouchPad. 3. Click a gesture to activate the demonstration. To turn a gesture off or on: 1. From the Synaptics TouchPad screen, select the check box next to the gesture that you want to turn off or on. 2. Click apply, and then click OK. Tapping To make an on-screen selection, use the tap function on the TouchPad.
Pinching/zooming Pinching and zooming allow you to zoom out or in on images or text. ● Zoom in by placing two fingers together on the TouchPad zone and then moving your fingers apart. ● Zoom out by placing two fingers apart on the TouchPad zone and then moving your fingers together. Edge swipes Edge swipes allow you to perform tasks such as changing settings and finding or using apps.
Right-edge swipe The right-edge swipe reveals the charms, which let you search, share, start apps, access devices, or change settings. ● Swipe your finger gently from the right edge to display the charms. Top-edge swipe The top-edge swipe allows you to access All Apps available on the Start screen. IMPORTANT: ● When an app is active, the top-edge gesture varies depending on the app. Swipe 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 your finger gently 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 by using touch gestures. The keyboard also allows you to use action keys and hot keys to perform specific functions.
CAUTION: Use extreme care when making changes in Setup Utility. Errors can prevent the computer from operating properly. Icon Key Description f1 Opens Help and Support, which provides tutorials, information about the Windows operating system and your computer, answers to questions, and updates to your computer. Help and Support also provides automated troubleshooting tools and access to support. f2 Decreases the screen brightness incrementally as long as you hold down the key.
Shortcut Keys Shortcut key Key Description Returns you to the Start screen from an open app or the Desktop. Pressing the key again returns you to the previous screen. + c Opens the charms. + d Opens the Desktop. + tab Switches between open apps. NOTE: Continue to press this key combination until the app you want displays. alt + f4 Closes an active app. Using the hot keys A hot key is a combination of the fn key and the esc key.
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 and exiting Sleep With the computer on, you can initiate Sleep in any of the following ways: ● Close the display. ● From the Start screen, point to the upper-right or lower-right corner of the screen. When the charms list opens, click Settings, click the Power icon, and then click Sleep. To exit Sleep: ● If the display is closed, open the display. ● Press a key on the keyboard. ● Tap or swipe the TouchPad.
4. Click Require a password (recommended). NOTE: If you need to create a user account password or change your current user account password, click Create or change your user account password, and then follow the onscreen instructions. If you do not need to create or change a user account password, go to step 5. 5. Click Save changes. Using the power meter and power settings The power meter is located on the Windows desktop.
Removing a user-replaceable battery WARNING! To reduce potential safety issues, use only the user-replaceable battery provided with the computer, a replacement battery provided by HP, or a compatible battery purchased from HP. CAUTION: Removing a user-replaceable battery that is the sole power source for the computer can cause loss of information. To prevent loss of information, save your work or shut down the computer through Windows before removing the battery. To remove the battery: 1.
● Stop, disable, or remove any external media cards that you are not using. ● Before you leave your work, initiate Sleep or shut down the computer. Identifying low battery levels When a battery that is the sole power source for the computer reaches a low or critical battery level, the power meter icon on the Windows desktop shows a low or critical battery notification. NOTE: For additional information about the power meter, refer to “Using the power meter” section.
See the Regulatory, Safety and Environmental Notices for proper battery disposal. To access the user guides, select the HP Support Assistant app on the Start screen, select My computer, and then select the User guides. Replacing a user-replaceable battery Battery Check in Help and Support notifies you to replace the battery when an internal cell is not charging properly or when the battery storage capacity has reached a weak condition.
To test the AC adapter: 1. Shut down the computer. 2. Remove the battery from the computer. 3. Connect the AC adapter to the computer, and then plug it into an AC outlet. 4. Turn on the computer. ● If the power lights turn on, the AC adapter is working properly. ● If the power lights remain off, check the connection from the AC adapter to the computer and the connection from the AC adapter to the AC outlet to make sure the connections are secure.
Shut down the computer under any of the following conditions: ● When you need to replace the battery or access components inside the computer ● When you are connecting an external hardware device that does not connect to a USB or video port ● When the computer will be unused and disconnected from external power for an extended period 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 sta
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. For added capacity or functionality, connect an external drive (purchased separately), such as an optical drive or hard drive, or insert a digital storage card directly from your phone or camera.
▲ 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.
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.
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. Type a name in the File Sharing box, and then click Add. 4. Click Share and then follow the on-screen instructions. To share information from your Local Disk: 1. On the Desktop, open File Explorer. 2. Click Local Disk (C:) on the Libraries window. 3. Click the Share tab, and then click Advanced sharing. 4.
8 Maintaining your computer It is important to perform regular maintenance to keep your computer in optimal condition. This chapter provides information about improving the performance of your computer by running tools such as Disk Defragmenter and Disk Cleanup. It also provides information about updating your programs and drivers, instructions for cleaning your computer, and tips for traveling with your computer.
CAUTION: To prevent information loss or an unresponsive system: Before removing or installing a drive, shut down the computer. If you are unsure whether the computer is off, in the Sleep state, or in Hibernation, turn the computer on, and then shut it down through the operating system. 1. Save your work and shut down the computer. 2. Disconnect all external devices connected to the computer. 3. Unplug the power cord from the AC outlet. 4. Turn the computer upside down on a flat surface. 5.
4. Lift the hard drive (2) out of the hard drive bay. 5. Disconnect the hard drive cable (1) from the hard drive. 6. Remove the front bumper (2) and the back bumper (3) from the hard drive. 7. Remove the 4 screws (4) from the hard drive and remove the bracket (5) from the hard drive. To install a hard drive, reverse this procedure.
A short time after the end of one of these events, HP 3D DriveGuard returns the hard drive to normal operation. NOTE: Because solid-state drives (SSD) lack moving parts, HP 3D DriveGuard is unnecessary. NOTE: A hard drive in the primary hard drive bay is protected by HP 3D DriveGuard. Hard drives connected to USB ports are not covered by HP 3D DriveGuard. For more information, see the HP 3D DriveGuard software Help.
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.
7. Slide the service door forward slightly (2), lift the front right corner of the service door (3), and then maintain an angle while removing the service door (4). 8. If you are replacing a memory module, remove the existing memory module: a. Pull away the retention clips (1) on each side of the memory module. The memory module tilts up. b. Grasp the edge of the memory module (2), and then gently pull the module out of the memory module slot.
9. 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. Align the notched edge (1) of the memory module with the tab in the memory module slot. b. With the memory module at a 45-degree angle from the surface of the memory module compartment, press the module into the memory module slot (2) until it is seated. c.
recent gaming software. Without the latest driver, you would not be getting the most out of your equipment. Go to http://www.hp.com/support to download the latest versions of HP programs and drivers. In addition, register to receive automatic update notifications when they become available. Cleaning your computer Cleaning your computer and external devices helps keep them in good working condition. If you don't clean your computer, dust and dirt particles can build up.
◦ Turn off, and then disconnect all external devices. ◦ Shut down the computer. ● Take along a backup of your information. Keep the backup separate from the computer. ● When traveling by air, carry the computer as hand luggage; do not check it in with the rest of your luggage. CAUTION: Avoid exposing a drive to magnetic fields. Security devices with magnetic fields include airport walk-through devices and security wands.
9 Securing your computer and information Computer security is essential for protecting the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of your information. Standard security solutions provided by the Windows operating system, HP applications, the non-Windows Setup Utility (BIOS), and other third-party software can help protect your computer from a variety of risks, such as viruses, worms, and other types of malicious code.
Setting Windows passwords Password Function User password Protects access to a Windows user account. Administrator password Protects administrator-level access to computer contents. NOTE: This password cannot be used to access Setup Utility (BIOS) contents. Setting Setup Utility (BIOS) passwords Password Function Administrator password ● Must be entered each time you access Setup Utility (BIOS). ● If you forget your administrator password, you cannot access Setup Utility (BIOS).
the security software trial offer or purchase the software of your choice in order to fully protect your computer. Using antivirus software Computer viruses can disable programs, utilities, or the operating system, or cause them to function abnormally. Antivirus software can detect most viruses, destroy them, and in most cases, repair any damage they have caused. For more information about computer viruses, from the Start screen, type h, and then select Help and Support.
wwcontact_us.html. At this location, you can also register to receive automatic update notifications when they become available. 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.
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.
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: 56 If you need to stop a diagnostic test while it is running, press esc.
11 Backing up, restoring, and recovering Your computer includes tools provided by HP and the operating system to help you safeguard your information and retrieve it if you ever need to. These tools will help you return your computer to a proper working state or even back to the original factory state, all with simple steps.
choose to reset the computer by reinstalling Windows or choose to recover using HP Recovery Manager. NOTE: File History is not enabled by default, so you must turn it on. For more information and steps for enabling Windows File History, see Windows Help and Support. From the Start screen, type h, and then select Help and Support. Creating HP Recovery media HP Recovery Manager is a software program that offers a way to create recovery media after you successfully set up the computer.
Restore and recovery There are several options for recovering your system. Choose the method that best matches your situation and level of expertise: ● If you need to restore your personal files and data, you can use Windows File History to restore your information from the backups you created. For more information and steps for using File History, see Windows Help and Support. From the Start screen, type h, and then select Help and Support.
Using Windows Refresh for quick and easy recovery When your computer is not working properly and you need to regain system stability, the Windows Refresh option allows you to start fresh and keep what is important to you. IMPORTANT: Refresh removes any traditional applications that were not originally installed on the system at the factory. NOTE: During Refresh, a list of removed traditional applications will be saved so that you have a quick way to see what you might need to reinstall.
3. 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 HP Recovery media to recover You can use HP Recovery media to recover the original system. This method can be used if your system does not have an HP Recovery partition or if the hard drive is not working properly. 1. If possible, back up all personal files. 2. Insert the first HP Recovery disc you created into an optional external optical drive, and then restart the computer. – or – Insert the HP Recovery USB flash drive you created into a USB port on your computer, and then restart the computer.
12 Specifications Input power The power information in this section may be helpful if you plan to travel internationally with the computer. The computer operates on DC power, which can be supplied by an AC or a DC power source. The AC power source must be rated at 100–240 V, 50–60 Hz. Although the computer can be powered from a standalone DC power source, it should be powered only with an AC adapter or a DC power source supplied and approved by HP for use with this computer.
13 Electrostatic Discharge Electrostatic discharge is the release of static electricity when two objects come into contact—for example, the shock you receive when you walk across the carpet and touch a metal door knob. A discharge of static electricity from fingers or other electrostatic conductors may damage electronic components.
Index A AC adapter light, identifying 4 AC adapter, testing 34 action keys decrease screen brightness 27 Help and Support 27 identifying 10 increase screen brightness 27 next track or section 27 play, pause, resume 27 previous track or section 27 switch screen image 27 volume down 27 volume mute 27 volume up 27 wireless 27 airport security devices 41 antivirus software, using 52 audio 18 audio functions, checking 19 audio-in (microphone) jack 5 audio-out (headphone) jack 5 B back up personal files 58 backin
HP Recovery media creating 58 recovery 62 HP Recovery partition recovery 61 removing 62 hubs 37 61 I input power 63 installing critical updates 52 optional security cable lock 53 Integrated numeric keypad 28 integrated numeric keypad, identifying 28 integrated webcam light, identifying 6 Intel Rapid Start Technology 29 internal microphone, identifying 6 Internet connection setup 15 Internet security software, using 51 J jack audio-in (microphone) 5 audio-out (headphone) 5 jacks network 5 RJ-45 (network) 5
reset computer 59, 60 steps 60 restore Windows File History 59 RJ-45 (network) jack, identifying 5 S scrolling TouchPad gesture 23 security cable lock, installing 53 security cable slot security cable slot, identifying 4 security, wireless 15 serial number 12 serial number, computer 12 service labels locating 12 setting password protection on wakeup 30 setup of WLAN 15 Setup Utility (BIOS) passwords 51 shipping the computer 48 Shortcut keys Windows 8 shortcut keys 27 shutdown 36 Sleep exiting 30 initiating
