HP Notebook User Guide
© Copyright 2011 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Bluetooth is a trademark owned by its proprietor and used by Hewlett-Packard Company under license. SD Logo is a trademark of its proprietor. The information contained herein is subject to change without notice. The only warranties for HP products and services are set forth in the express warranty statements accompanying such products and services. Nothing herein should be construed as constituting an additional warranty.
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 Welcome .......................................................................................................................................................... 1 Finding information ............................................................................................................................... 2 2 Getting to know your computer ..................................................................................................................... 3 Top ....................
4 Keyboard and pointing devices ................................................................................................................... 22 Using the keyboard ............................................................................................................................ 22 Identifying the hotkeys ....................................................................................................... 22 Using keypads .....................................................................
Maximizing battery life ....................................................................................................... 42 Managing low battery levels .............................................................................................. 42 Identifying low battery levels ............................................................................. 42 Resolving a low battery level .............................................................................
9 Memory modules .......................................................................................................................................... 61 10 Security ........................................................................................................................................................ 66 Protecting the computer ..................................................................................................................... 66 Using passwords ........................
Appendix B Cleaning your computer ............................................................................................................. 83 Cleaning products .............................................................................................................................. 83 Appendix C Specifications .............................................................................................................................. 84 Input power .................................................
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1 Welcome The following section is included in this chapter: ● Finding information After you set up and register the computer, take the following steps: ● Connect to the Internet—Set up your wired or wireless network so that you can connect to the Internet. For more information, refer to Networking on page 14. ● Get to know your computer—Learn about your computer features. Refer to Getting to know your computer on page 3 and Keyboard and pointing devices on page 22 for additional information.
Finding information The computer comes with several resources to help you perform various tasks. Resources For information about Quick Setup poster ● Setting up the computer ● Identifying computer components Linux Help ● Computer software To access the Linux Help, select Computer > Help.
2 Getting to know your computer The following sections are included in this chapter: ● Top ● Front ● Right ● Left ● Display ● Bottom Top TouchPad Component Description (1) TouchPad on/off button Turns the TouchPad on and off. (2) TouchPad Moves the pointer and selects or activates items on the screen.
Component Description (3) Left TouchPad button Functions like the left button on an external mouse. (4) Right TouchPad button Functions like the right button on an external mouse. Lights Component (1) (2) (3) 4 Description TouchPad light Caps lock light Power light ● Amber: The TouchPad is off. ● Off: The TouchPad is on. ● White: Caps lock is on. ● Off: Caps lock is off. ● On: The computer is on. ● Blinking: The computer is in the Suspend state.
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 Suspend. ● When the computer is in the Suspend state, press the button briefly to exit Suspend. ● When the computer is in Hibernation, press the button briefly to exit Hibernation.
Keys NOTE: Refer to the illustration that most closely matches your computer. Component 6 Description (1) Function keys Execute frequently used system functions when pressed in combination with the fn key. (2) num lk key Enables/disables the embedded numeric keypad when pressed in combination with the fn key. (3) fn key Executes frequently used system functions when pressed in combination with a function key, the num lk key, or the esc key. (4) Computer key Displays the Computer menu.
Component Description (1) Function keys Execute frequently used system functions when pressed in combination with the fn key. (2) num lk key Enables/disables the embedded numeric keypad when pressed in combination with the fn key. (3) Integrated numeric keypad When the keypad has been enabled, the keys can be used like an external numeric keypad. (4) fn key Executes frequently used system functions when pressed in combination with a function key, the num lk key, or the esc key.
Front Component (1) (2) (3) Description Drive light Media Card Reader Audio-out (headphone) jack ● White: The hard drive or optical drive is being accessed. ● Amber: HP 3D DriveGuard has temporarily parked the hard drive. Supports the following digital card formats: ● Memory Stick Pro ● Memory Stick Duo Pro ● MultiMediaCard ● MultiMediaCard Micro ● Secure Digital (SD) Card ● Secure Digital (SD) Card Micro Connects optional headphones, earbuds, a headset, or television audio.
Right Component Description (1) USB ports (2) Connect optional USB devices. (2) RJ-11 (modem) jack (select models only) Connects a modem cable. (3) Optical drive Reads and writes (select models only) to an optical disc. (4) Optical drive light Lights when optical drive is active. (5) Optical drive eject button Ejects the optical drive.
Left 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) AC adapter light ● White: The computer is connected to external power and the battery is 90 to 99% charged. ● Amber: The computer is connected to external power and the battery is 0 to 90% charged.
Component Description (8) ExpressCard slot Reads and writes to ExpressCards. (9) USB port Connects an optional USB device. (10) USB port Connects an optional USB device.
Display Component Description (1) Speakers (2) Produce sound. (2) Internal display switch Turns off the display or initiates Suspend if the display is closed while the power is on. NOTE: The display switch is not visible from the outside of the computer. (3) WWAN antennas (2)* (select models only) Send and receive wireless signals to communicate with wireless wide-area networks (WWAN).
Bottom Component Description (1) Battery and access cover release latches Release the battery from the battery bay, and release the access cover from the computer. (2) Battery bay Holds the battery. (3) SIM slot Contains a wireless subscriber identity module (SIM) (select models only). The SIM slot is located inside the battery bay. (4) Vents (2) Enable airflow to cool internal components. NOTE: The computer fan starts up automatically to cool internal components and prevent overheating.
3 Networking The following sections are included in this chapter: ● Using an Internet service provider (ISP) ● Identifying wireless and network status icons ● Creating a wireless connection ● Using a WLAN ● Using Bluetooth wireless devices (select models only) ● Connecting to a wired network Your computer may support one or both of the following types of Internet access: ● Wireless—For mobile Internet access, you can use a wireless connection.
Using an Internet service provider (ISP) Before you can connect to the Internet, you must establish an ISP account. Contact a local ISP to purchase Internet service and a modem. The ISP can help set up the modem, install a network cable to connect your wireless computer to the modem, and test the Internet service. NOTE: Your ISP will give you a user ID and password to access the Internet. Record this information and store it in a safe place.
Identifying wireless and network status icons Icon Name Description Wireless (connected) Indicates that one or more wireless devices are on. Network Connection (connected) Indicates that the wired network is connected and active. If both wired and wireless connections are active, the operating system uses the wired connection because it is faster. Network Connection (disconnected) Indicates that wired and wireless networks are not connected.
Connecting to an existing WLAN 1. Be sure that the WLAN device is on. NOTE: Refer to Getting to know your computer on page 3 for information on identifying the location of the wireless button and wireless light on your computer. 2. Click the Network Connection icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar. Available wireless networks are listed under Wireless Networks. 3. Click the desired wireless network.
For help in setting up your WLAN, refer to the information provided by your router manufacturer or your ISP. Protecting your WLAN When you set up a WLAN or access an existing WLAN, always enable security features to protect your network from unauthorized access. WLANs in public areas (hotspots) like coffee shops and airports may not provide any security.
Using Bluetooth wireless devices (select models only) A Bluetooth device provides short-range wireless communications that replace the physical cable connections that traditionally link electronic devices such as the following: ● Computers ● Phones ● Audio devices The strength of Bluetooth is in synchronizing information transfers between your computer and wireless devices.
2. Plug the modem cable into the RJ-11 telephone wall jack (2). Connecting a country- or region-specific modem cable adapter Telephone jacks vary by country or region. To use the modem and the modem cable outside the country or region in which you purchased the computer, you must obtain a country- or region-specific modem cable adapter. To connect the modem to an analog telephone line that does not have an RJ-11 telephone jack, follow these steps: 20 1.
Connecting to a local area network (LAN) (select models only) Connecting to a local area network (LAN) requires an 8-pin, RJ-45 network cable (purchased separately). If the network cable contains noise suppression circuitry (1), which prevents interference from TV and radio reception, orient the circuitry end of the cable (2) toward the computer. To connect the network cable: 1. Plug the network cable into the network jack (1) on the computer. 2.
4 Keyboard and pointing devices The following sections are included in this chapter: ● Using the keyboard ● Using the TouchPad Using the keyboard Identifying the hotkeys A hotkey is a combination of the fn key (1) and one of the function keys (2). To use a hotkey: ▲ 22 Briefly press the fn key, and then briefly press the second key of the hotkey combination.
Hotkey combination fn+f1 Description Initiates Suspend, which saves your information in system memory. The display and other system components turn off and power is conserved. To exit Suspend, briefly press the power button. CAUTION: To reduce the risk of information loss, save your work before initiating Suspend. NOTE: If a critical battery level occurs while the computer is in the Suspend state, the computer initiates Hibernation and the information stored in memory is saved to the hard drive.
Using keypads The computer includes either an embedded numeric keypad or an integrated numeric keypad. The computer also supports an optional external numeric keypad or an optional external keyboard that includes a numeric keypad. Using the embedded numeric keypad (1) Component Description fn key Turns the embedded numeric keypad on and off when pressed in combination with the num lk key.
Turning the embedded numeric keypad on and off Press fn+num lk to turn on the embedded numeric keypad. Press fn+num lk again to turn off the keypad. NOTE: The embedded numeric keypad is turned off while an external keyboard or numeric keypad is connected to the computer.
Using an optional external numeric keypad Keys on most external numeric keypads function differently according to whether num lock is on or off. (Num lock is turned off at the factory.) For example: ● When num lock is on, most keypad keys type numbers. ● When num lock is off, most keypad keys function like the arrow, page up, or page down keys. When num lock on an external keypad is turned on, the num lock light on the computer is turned on.
Navigating To move the pointer, slide one finger across the TouchPad in the direction you want the pointer to go. Selecting Use the left and right TouchPad buttons like the corresponding buttons on an external mouse. Using TouchPad gestures The TouchPad supports a variety of gestures. To use TouchPad gestures, place two fingers on the TouchPad at the same time. NOTE: TouchPad gestures are not supported in all programs. To turn the gestures on and off: 1.
Scrolling Scrolling is useful for moving up, down, or sideways on a page or image. To scroll, place two fingers slightly apart on the TouchPad, and then drag them across the TouchPad in an up, down, left, or right motion. NOTE: Scrolling speed is controlled by finger speed. NOTE: Two-finger scrolling is enabled at the factory. Pinching/Zooming Pinching allows you to zoom in or out on images or text. ● Zoom in by placing two fingers together on the TouchPad, and then moving them apart.
5 Multimedia The following sections are included in this chapter: ● Using the media activity keys ● Using the audio features ● Using the Webcam (select models only) ● Using video devices Your computer may include the following: ● Integrated speakers ● Integrated microphones ● Integrated webcam ● Preinstalled multimedia software ● Multimedia buttons or keys Using the media activity keys Depending on your computer model, you may have the following media activity controls that allow you to
Using the audio features Your computer enables you to use a variety of audio features: 30 ● Play music. ● Record sound. ● Download music from the Internet. ● Create multimedia presentations. ● Transmit sound and images with instant messaging programs. ● Stream radio programs (select models only). ● Create (burn) audio CDs using the installed optical drive (select models only) or on an optional external optical drive (purchased separately).
Adjusting the volume Depending on your computer model, you can adjust the volume using the following: ● Volume buttons ● Volume hotkeys ● Volume keys 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. NOTE: Volume can also be controlled through the operating system and some programs.
Checking your audio functions To check the system sound on your computer, follow these steps: 1. Select Computer > Control Center. 2. Click Sound. 3. Select the Devices tab, and then click the Test button in order to test each sound. To check the recording functions of the computer, follow these steps: 1. Select Computer > Control Center. 2. Click the Devices tab and then click the Test button next to Sound capture.
Using video devices Your computer may have one or more of the following external video ports: ● VGA ● HDMI VGA The external monitor port, or VGA port, is an analog display interface that connects an external VGA display device such as an external VGA monitor or a VGA projector to the computer. ▲ To connect a VGA display device, connect the device cable to the external monitor port. NOTE: Press fn+f4 to switch the image between the display devices connected to the computer.
Connecting an HDMI device (select models only) The HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) port connects the computer to an optional video or audio device, such as a high-definition television, or to any compatible digital or audio component. NOTE: To transmit video signals through the HDMI port, you need an HDMI cable (purchased separately). One HDMI device can be connected to the HDMI port on the computer.
Configuring audio for HDMI (select models only) To configure HDMI audio, first connect an audio or video device, such as a high-definition TV, to the HDMI port on your computer. Then configure the default audio playback device as follows: 1. Right-click the Speakers icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar, and then click Open Volume Control. 2. On the Output Devices tab, click the HDMI audio device. 3. Click the down arrow, and then click Default.
6 Power management The following sections are included in this chapter: ● Shutting down the computer ● Setting power options ● Using battery power ● Using external AC power Shutting down the computer CAUTION: Unsaved information will be lost when the computer is shut down. The shut down command closes all open programs, including the operating system, and then turns off the display and computer.
Setting power options Using power-saving states The computer has two power-saving states enabled at the factory: Suspend and Hibernation. When Suspend is initiated, the power light blinks and the screen clears. Your work is saved to memory, letting you exit the Suspend state faster than exiting Hibernation. If the computer is in the Suspend state for an extended period or if the battery reaches a critical battery level while in the Suspend state, the computer initiates Hibernation.
With the computer on, you can initiate Hibernation in any of the following ways: ● Briefly press the power button. ● Select Computer > Shutdown > Hibernate. ● Click the Power icon, located on the far right of the taskbar, and then click Hibernate. To exit Hibernation: ▲ Briefly press the power button. When the computer exits Hibernation, the power light turns on and your work returns to the screen where you stopped working.
NOTE: When you disconnect AC power, the display brightness is automatically decreased to save battery life. For information on increasing or decreasing display brightness, refer to Keyboard and pointing devices on page 22. You can keep a battery in the computer or in storage, depending on how you work. Keeping the battery in the computer whenever the computer is plugged into AC power charges the battery and also protects your work in case of a power outage.
Inserting or removing the battery CAUTION: Removing a battery that is the sole power source may cause loss of information. To prevent loss of information, save your work and initiate Hibernation or shut down the computer before removing the battery. To insert the battery: ▲ Align the tabs on the battery with the notches on the computer, insert the battery (1), and then pivot the battery downward (2) into the battery bay. The battery release latches automatically lock the battery into place.
Charging a battery WARNING! Do not charge the computer battery while you are onboard aircraft. The battery charges whenever the computer is plugged into external power through an AC adapter or an optional power adapter. The battery charges whether the computer is off or in use, but it charges faster when the computer is off. Charging may take longer if a battery is new, has been unused for 2 weeks or more, or is much warmer or cooler than room temperature.
Maximizing battery life To maximize battery life: 1. Select Computer > Control Center > Power Management. 2. Under the On Battery Power tab: ● Adjust the slider to the right of Put computer to sleep when inactive for to 30 minutes. ● Select the Suspend or Hibernate option from the dialog box to the right of When laptop lid is closed. ● Select the Hibernate or Shutdown option from the dialog box to the right of When battery power is critically low. 3.
Resolving a low battery level Resolving a low battery level when external power is available ▲ Connect one of the following devices: ● AC adapter ● Optional docking or expansion device ● Optional power adapter purchased as an accessory from HP Resolving a low battery level when a charged battery is available 1. Turn off the computer or initiate Hibernation. 2. Replace the discharged battery with a charged battery. 3. Turn on the computer.
NOTE: A stored battery should be checked every 6 months. If the capacity is less than 50 percent, recharge the battery before returning it to storage. Calibrate a battery before using it if it has been stored for one month or more. Disposing of a used battery WARNING! To reduce the risk of fire or burns, do not disassemble, crush, or puncture; do not short external contacts; do not dispose of in fire or water. Refer to the Regulatory, Safety, and Environmental Notices for battery disposal information.
Testing an AC adapter Test the AC adapter if the computer exhibits any of the following symptoms when it is connected to AC power: ● The computer does not turn on. ● The display does not turn on. ● The power light is off. To test the AC adapter: 1. Shut down the computer. 2. Remove the battery from the computer. 3. Connect the AC adapter to the computer, and then plug it into an AC outlet. 4. Turn on the computer. ● If the power light turns on, the AC adapter is functioning properly.
7 Drives The following sections are included in this chapter: ● Handling drives ● Replacing or upgrading the hard drive ● Using optical drives (select models only) Handling drives Drives are fragile computer components that must be handled with care. Refer to the following cautions before handling drives. Additional cautions are included with the procedures to which they apply.
● If a drive must be mailed, place the drive in a bubble-pack mailer or other suitable protective packaging and label the package “FRAGILE.” ● Avoid exposing a drive to magnetic fields. Security devices with magnetic fields include airport walk-through devices and security wands. Airport conveyer belts and similar security devices that check carry-on baggage use X-rays instead of magnetism and do not damage drives.
9. 48 Lift the hard drive (3) out of the hard drive bay.
Installing a hard drive 1. Insert the hard drive into the hard drive bay (1). 2. Pull the hard drive tab (2) to the left until the hard drive snaps into place. 3. Replace the four hard drive screws (3). 4. Align the tabs on the access cover with the latches on the computer (1), then slide the cover in to close it (2). The release latches automatically lock the access cover into place (3).
50 5. Replace the access cover screw (4). 6. Replace the battery. 7. Connect AC power and external devices to the computer. 8. Turn on the computer. 9. After you install the hard drive you will need to format the drive. Follow the on-screen instructions to format the hard drive.
Using optical drives (select models only) Identifying the installed optical drive ▲ Select Computer > More Applications, and then select the Audio & Video group at the left sidebar. A list of all the devices installed in your computer, including your optical drive, is displayed. Inserting an optical disc Tray load 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.
When the disc tray opens normally 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. Close the disc tray and place the disc in a protective case.
3. 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. 4. Close the disc tray and place the disc in a protective case.
8 External cards and devices The following sections are included in this chapter: ● Using Digital Media Slot cards (select models only) ● Using ExpressCards (select models only) ● Using a USB device ● Using optional external devices Using Digital Media Slot cards (select models only) Optional digital cards provide secure data storage and convenient data sharing. These cards are often used with digital media-equipped cameras and PDAs as well as with other computers.
Removing a digital card CAUTION: To reduce the risk of loss of data or an unresponsive system, use the following procedure to safely remove the digital card. Save your information and close all programs associated with the digital card. To remove a digital card: 1. Open File Browser by selecting Computer > Nautilus. 2. Click the Eject icon next to the name of the digital card in the Places list on the left pane of File Browser. NOTE: You are prompted that it is safe to remove the hardware device. 3.
Using ExpressCards (select models only) An ExpressCard is a high-performance PC Card that is inserted into the ExpressCard slot. Like standard PC Cards, ExpressCards are designed to conform to the standard specifications of the Personal Computer Memory Card International Association (PCMCIA). NOTE: To conserve power, stop or remove an ExpressCard when it is not in use. Configuring an ExpressCard Install only the software required for the card.
Inserting an ExpressCard CAUTION: To prevent damage to the computer and external media cards, do not insert a PC Card into an ExpressCard slot. CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to the connectors: Use minimal force when inserting an ExpressCard. Do not move or transport the computer when an ExpressCard is in use. The ExpressCard slot may contain a protective insert. To remove the insert: 1. Press in on the insert (1) to unlock it. 2. Pull the insert out of the slot (2). To insert an ExpressCard: 1.
Removing an ExpressCard CAUTION: To reduce the risk of loss of data or an unresponsive system, use the following procedure to safely remove the ExpressCard. Save your information and close all programs associated with the ExpressCard. To remove an ExpressCard: 1. Open File Browser by selecting Computer > Nautilus. 2. Click the Eject icon next to the name of the digital card in the Places list on the left pane of File Browser. You are prompted that it is safe to remove the hardware device. 3.
Connecting a USB device CAUTION: To prevent damage to a USB connector, use minimal force to connect a USB device. ▲ To connect a USB device to the computer, connect the USB cable for the device to the USB port. You will hear a sound when the device has been detected. NOTE: When you connect a USB device, you may see a message in the notification area to let you know that the device is recognized by the system.
Using optional external devices NOTE: For more information about required software and drivers, or to learn which computer port to use, refer to the manufacturer's instructions. To connect an external device to the computer: CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to the equipment when connecting a powered device, be sure that the device is turned off and the AC power cord is unplugged. 1. Connect the device to the computer. 2.
9 Memory modules The computer memory module compartment is located on the bottom of the computer. WARNING! To reduce the risk of electric shock and damage to the equipment, unplug the power cord and remove all batteries before installing a memory module. CAUTION: Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can damage electronic components. Before beginning any procedure, ensure that you are discharged of static electricity by touching a grounded metal object.
6. Slide the access cover back (3), and then lift it away from the computer (4). 7. 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. 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, and do not bend the memory module.
b. Grasp the edge of the memory module (2), and gently pull the module out of the memory module slot. 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, and do not bend the memory module. a. Align the notched edge (1) of the memory module with the tab in the memory module slot. b.
c. 9. Gently press the memory module (3) down, applying pressure to both the left and right edges of the memory module, until the retention clips snap into place. Align the tabs on the access cover with the latches on the computer (1), then slide the cover in to close it (2). The release latches automatically lock the access cover into place (3).
10. Replace the access cover screw (4). 11. Replace the battery. 12. Connect AC power and external devices to the computer. 13. Turn on the computer.
10 Security The following sections are included in this chapter: ● Protecting the computer ● Using passwords ● Using firewall software ● Installing an optional security cable Protecting the computer NOTE: Security solutions are designed to act as deterrents, but they may not deter software attacks or prevent the computer from being mishandled or stolen. Security features provided with your computer can protect the computer, personal information, and data from a variety of risks.
Using passwords A password is a group of characters that you choose to secure your computer information. Several types of passwords can be set, depending on how you want to control access to your information. Passwords can be set in the operating system or in Computer Setup that is preinstalled on the computer. NOTE: To reduce the risk of being locked out of the computer, record each password and store it in a secure place.
Managing an administrator password To set, change, or delete this password, follow these steps: 1. Open Computer Setup by turning on or restarting the computer. While the “Press the ESC key for Startup Menu” message is displayed in the lower-left corner of the screen, press esc. When the Startup Menu is displayed, press f10. 2. Use the arrow keys to select Security > Set Administrator password, and then press enter. 3.
Entering a power-on password At the Enter Password prompt, type your password, and then press enter. After 3 unsuccessful attempts to enter the password, you must restart the computer and try again. Using firewall software Firewalls are designed to prevent unauthorized access to a system or network. A firewall can be a software program you install on your computer and/or network, or it can be a solution made up of both hardware and software.
Installing an optional security cable NOTE: A security cable is designed to act as a deterrent, but it may not prevent the computer from being mishandled or stolen. NOTE: The security cable slot on your computer may look different from the illustration in this section. Refer to Getting to know your computer on page 3 for the location of the security cable slot on your computer. 70 1. Loop the security cable around a secured object. 2. Insert the key (1) into the cable lock (2). 3.
11 Backup and Recovery The following sections are included in this chapter: ● Performing a system recovery ● Backing up your information Recovery after a system failure is as good as your most recent backup. As you add new software and data files, you should continue to back up your system on a regular basis to maintain a reasonably current backup.
Performing a system recovery Recovery allows you to repair or restore the computer to its original factory state. Recovery works from a dedicated recovery partition on the hard drive. This type of recovery restores the computer to its factory condition without using recovery discs. CAUTION: Using Recovery completely erases hard drive contents and reformats the hard drive. All files you have created and any software installed on the computer are permanently removed.
Backing up your information You should back up your computer files on a regular schedule to maintain a current backup. You can manually back up your information to an optional external drive, a network drive, or discs. Back up your system at the following times: ● At regularly scheduled times ● Before the computer is repaired or restored ● Before you add or modify hardware or software To back up your home directory files using Backup Manager Settings: 1.
12 Computer Setup Computer Setup, 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). Computer Setup includes settings for the types of peripherals installed, the startup sequence of the computer, and the amount of system and extended memory. NOTE: Use extreme care when making changes in Computer Setup. Errors can prevent the computer from operating properly.
To exit Computer Setup menus, choose one of the following methods: ● To exit Computer Setup menus without saving your changes, click the Exit icon in the lower-left corner of the screen, and then follow the on-screen instructions. – or – Use the tab key and the arrow keys to select File > Ignore Changes and Exit, and then press enter. – or – ● To save your changes and exit Computer Setup menus, click the Save icon in the lower-left corner of the screen, and then follow the on-screen instructions.
Determining the BIOS version To determine whether available BIOS updates contain later BIOS versions than those currently installed on the computer, you need to know the version of the system BIOS currently installed. BIOS version information (also known as ROM date and System BIOS) can be displayed by using Computer Setup. 1. Start Computer Setup. 2. Use a pointing device or the arrow keys to select File > System Information. BIOS and other system information is displayed. 3.
A Troubleshooting and support The following sections are included in this appendix: ● Troubleshooting ● Contacting customer support ● Labels Troubleshooting The following sections describe several common issues and solutions.
repeatedly, the image alternates among the computer display, one or more external displays, and simultaneous display on all devices. Software is functioning abnormally If the software is unresponsive or responds abnormally, restart the computer by clicking Computer > Shutdown > Restart. If you cannot restart the computer using this procedure, refer to the next section, The computer is on but not responding on page 78.
The wireless network connection is not working If a wireless network connection is not working as expected, follow these suggestions: ● To enable or disable a wireless or wired network device, right-click the Network Connection icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar. To enable devices, select the check box from the menu option. To disable the device, clear the check box. ● Be sure that the wireless device is turned on.
The computer does not detect the optical drive If your operating system does not detect an installed device, the device driver software may be missing or corrupted. 1. Remove any discs from the optical drive. 2. Click Computer and then click System Monitor. 3. On the Hardware tab, identify the Storage Controller in the Type column. 4. Click the triangle next to the devices until you locate your optical drive. If the drive is listed, it should be functioning correctly.
The process of burning a disc does not begin, or it stops before completion ● Be sure that all other programs are closed. ● Turn off Suspend mode and Hibernation. ● Be sure that you are using the right kind of disc for your drive. ● Be sure that the disc is inserted properly. ● Select a slower write speed and try again. ● If you are copying a disc, save the information on the source disc to your hard drive before trying to burn the contents to a new disc, and then burn from your hard drive.
Labels The labels affixed to the computer provide information you may need when you troubleshoot system problems or travel internationally with the computer: ● Serial number label—Provides important information, including the following: Component (1) Product name (2) Serial number (s/n) (3) Part number/product number (p/n) (4) Warranty period (5) Model description Have this information available when you contact technical support. The serial number label is affixed inside the battery bay.
B Cleaning your computer ● Cleaning products Cleaning products Use the following products to safely clean and disinfect your notebook or tablet PC: ● Dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride 0.3 percent maximum concentration (For example: germicidal disposable wipes. These wipes come in a variety of brand names.
C Specifications The following sections are included in this appendix: ● Input power ● Operating environment 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.
Operating environment Factor Metric U.S.
D 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 10 access cover removing 47, 62 replacing 47, 49, 64 access cover release latches 13 action keys volume 31 administrator password creating 68 entering 68 managing 68 airport security devices 47 audio features 30 audio functions, checking 32 audio-in (microphone) jack 8 audio-out (headphone) jack 8 B backup 71 battery charging 41 conserving power 43 disposing 44 inserting 40 life 42 low battery levels 42 power 38 removing 40 storing 43 temperature 43 battery bay 13, 82 battery relea
installing 49 removing 47 hard drive bay, identifying 13 HDMI 34 HDMI port, identifying 10 Hibernation exiting 37 initiated during critical battery level 42 initiating 37 high-definition devices, connecting 34 hotkeys adjusting volume 23 audio CD, DVD, or BD controls 23 battery charge 23 decrease screen brightness 23 description 22 increase screen brightness 23 muting speaker sound 23 QuickLock 23 Suspend 23 switching screen image 23 using 22 hubs 58 I icons network 16 wired network 16 wireless 16 input pow
power-on password creating 68 entering 69 managing 68 product name and number, computer 82 public WLAN connection 17 R readable media 37 recovery 71 regulatory information regulatory label 82 wireless certification labels release latches access cover 13 battery 13, 40 RJ-11 (modem) jack, identifying 9 RJ-45 (network) jack, identifying 10 82 S screen brightness keys 23 screen image, switching 23 scrolling TouchPad gesture 28 security cable 70 security cable slot, identifying 10 security, wireless 18 serial
