HP Notebook Reference Guide
© Copyright 2012 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. AMD is a trademark of Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. Bluetooth is a trademark owned by its proprietor and used by Hewlett-Packard Company under license. Intel and Centrino are trademarks of Intel Corporation in the U.S. and other countries. Java is a U.S. trademark of Sun Microsystems, Inc. Microsoft and Windows are U.S. registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. 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 Introduction ..................................................................................................................................................... 1 Finding more information about your new computer ............................................................................ 1 2 Networking (select models only) ................................................................................................................... 2 Creating a wireless connection ...............
Audio .................................................................................................................................................. 14 Adjusting the volume ......................................................................................................... 15 Checking audio functions on the computer ........................................................................ 15 Webcam (select models only) .................................................................................
Testing an AC adapter ....................................................................................................... 28 Switchable graphics/dual graphics (select models only) .................................................................... 29 Using switchable graphics (select models only) ................................................................ 29 Using dual graphics (select models only) ..........................................................................
Using optical drives (select models only) ........................................................................................... 45 Identifying the installed optical drive .................................................................................. 45 Inserting an optical disc ..................................................................................................... 45 Tray-load ...........................................................................................................
Computer Setup (BIOS) and Advanced System Diagnostics ................................................................... 65 Using Computer Setup ....................................................................................................................... 65 Starting Computer Setup ................................................................................................... 65 Navigating and selecting in Computer Setup .....................................................................
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1 Introduction This guide contains general information about HP notebook computers. NOTE: Some of the features described in this guide may not be available on your computer. Finding more information about your new computer The following user guides and reference material are provided with your computer, either in print, on the computer hard drive, or on an optical disc: ● Setup Instructions poster—Guides you through setting up your computer and turning it on.
2 Networking (select models only) Your computer supports two types of Internet access: ● Wireless—See Creating a wireless connection on page 2. ● Wired—See Connecting to a wired network on page 9. NOTE: You must set up Internet service before you can connect to the Internet.
Icon Name Description Network (connected) Indicates that one or more network devices are connected to a network. Network (disconnected) Indicates that network devices are not connected to a network. Network (disabled/ disconnected) Indicates that no wireless connections are available.
Turning wireless devices on or off You can use the wireless button or HP Connection Manager (select models only) to turn on and turn off wireless devices. NOTE: A computer may have a wireless button, a wireless switch, or a wireless key on the keyboard. The term wireless button is used throughout this guide to refer to all types of wireless controls. See the Getting Started guide for information on identifying the type and location of the wireless button on your computer.
Using a WLAN A wireless connection connects the computer to Wi-Fi networks, or WLANs. A WLAN is composed of other computers and accessories that are linked by a wireless router or a wireless access point. Connecting to an existing WLAN 1. Be sure that the WLAN device is on. (See Turning wireless devices on or off on page 4.) 2. Click the network icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar. 3. Select your WLAN from the list.
Setting up a new WLAN Required equipment: ● A broadband modem (either DSL or cable) (purchased separately) (1) and high-speed Internet service purchased from an Internet service provider (ISP) ● A wireless router (purchased separately) (2) NOTE: Some cable modems include a built-in router. Check with your ISP to see if you need a separate router. ● The wireless computer (3) The illustration shows an example of a wireless network installation that is connected to the Internet.
NOTE: HP recommends that you select WPA2, which is the most advanced of the three encryption protocols. The use of WEP encryption is not recommended, because it can be overcome with little effort. ● ● Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) and Wi-Fi Protected Access II (WPA2) use security standards to encrypt and decrypt data transmitted over the network. Both WPA and WPA2 dynamically generate a new key for every packet, and they also generate a different set of keys for each computer on the network.
Inserting a SIM NOTE: To identify the SIM slot location, see the Getting Started guide. 1. Shut down the computer. If you are not sure whether the computer is off or in Hibernation, turn the computer on by pressing the power button. Then shut down the computer through the operating system. 2. Close the display. 3. Disconnect all external devices connected to the computer. 4. Unplug the power cord from the AC outlet. 5. Remove the battery if the computer contains a user-replaceable battery. 6.
Using GPS (select models only) Your computer may be equipped with a Global Positioning System (GPS) device. GPS satellites deliver location, speed, and direction information to GPS-equipped systems. For more information, see the HP GPS and Location software Help.
Connecting a modem cable 10 1. Plug the modem cable into the modem jack (1) on the computer. 2. Plug the modem cable into the RJ-11 telephone wall jack (2) or a route (not illustrated).
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: 1. Plug the modem cable into the modem jack (1) on the computer. 2.
Adding new locations when traveling On a new computer, the only location setting available to the modem is a location setting for the country or region in which you purchased the computer. As you travel to different countries or regions, set the internal modem to a location setting that meets the operating standards of the country or region in which you are using the modem. As you add new location settings, they are saved by the computer so that you can switch among settings at any time.
Connecting to a local area network (LAN) (select models only) Connecting to a 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.
3 Multimedia Your computer may include the following multimedia components: ● Integrated speaker(s) ● Integrated microphone(s) ● Integrated webcam ● Preinstalled multimedia software ● Multimedia buttons or keys Using the media activity controls Depending on your computer model, you may have the following media activity controls that allow you to play, pause, fast forward, or rewind a media file: ● Media buttons ● Media hotkeys (specific keys pressed in combination with the fn key) ● Media k
Adjusting the volume Depending on your computer model, you can adjust the volume using the following: ● Volume buttons ● Volume hotkeys (specific keys pressed in combination with the fn key) ● 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, see the Regulatory, Safety and Environmental Notices. NOTE: Volume can also be controlled through the operating system and some programs.
The webcam software enables you to experiment with the following features: ● Capturing and sharing video ● Streaming video with instant message software ● Taking still photos Administrators can set the security level for Face Recognition in the Security Manager Setup Wizard or HP ProtectTools Administrative Console. For more information, see the HP ProtectTools Getting Started guide or the Face Recognition software Help. For information on how to access the webcam, see the Getting Started guide.
DisplayPort The DisplayPort connects the computer to an optional video or audio device, such as a high-definition television, or to any compatible digital or audio component. The DisplayPort delivers higher performance than the VGA external monitor port and improves digital connectivity. NOTE: To transmit video and/or audio signals through the DisplayPort, you need a DisplayPort cable (purchased separately). One DisplayPort device can be connected to the DisplayPort port on the computer.
HDMI The HDMI 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 and/or audio 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. The information displayed on the computer screen can be simultaneously displayed on the HDMI device. To connect a video or audio device to the HDMI port: 1.
Intel Wireless Display (select models only) Intel® Wireless Display allows you to share your computer content wirelessly on your TV. To experience wireless display, a wireless TV adapter (purchased separately) is required. DVDs that have output protection may not play on Intel Wireless Display. (However, DVDs that do not have output protect will play.) Blu-ray discs, which have output protection, will not play on Intel Wireless Display.
4 Power management NOTE: A computer may have a power button or a power switch. The term power button is used throughout this guide to refer to both types of power controls. Shutting down the computer CAUTION: Unsaved information is lost when the computer shuts down. The shutdown 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 that are enabled at the factory: Sleep and Hibernation. When Sleep is initiated, the power lights blink and the screen clears. Your work is saved to memory, letting you exit Sleep faster than exiting Hibernation. If the computer is in the Sleep state for an extended period or if the battery reaches a critical battery level while in the Sleep state, the computer initiates Hibernation.
To initiate Hibernation: ▲ Click Start, click the arrow next to the Shut down button, and then click Hibernate. To exit Hibernation: ▲ Briefly press the power button. The power lights turn on and your work returns to the screen where you stopped working. NOTE: If you have set a password to be required on wakeup, you must enter your Windows password before your work will return to the screen. Using the power meter The power meter is located in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar.
3. Change the settings as needed. 4. To change additional settings, click Change advanced power settings and make your changes. Setting password protection on wakeup To set the computer to prompt for a password when the computer exits Sleep or Hibernation, follow these steps: 1. Select Start > Control Panel > System and Security > Power Options. 2. In the left pane, click Require a password on wakeup. 3. Click Change Settings that are currently unavailable. 4.
Using HP Power Assistant (select models only) HP Power Assistant allows you to configure system settings to optimize your computer's power consumption and battery charge.
Using Battery Check Help and Support provides information on the status of the battery installed in the computer. To run Battery Check: 1. Connect the AC adapter to the computer. NOTE: The computer must be connected to external power for Battery Check to work properly. 2. Select Start > Help and Support > Troubleshoot > Power, Thermal and Mechanical. 3. Click the Power tab, and then click Battery Check.
NOTE: For additional information about the power meter, see Using the power meter on page 22. The computer takes the following actions for a critical battery level: ● If Hibernation is enabled and the computer is on or in the Sleep state, the computer initiates Hibernation. ● If Hibernation is disabled and the computer is on or in the Sleep state, the computer remains briefly in the Sleep state, and then shuts down and loses any unsaved information.
If a computer will be unused and unplugged from external power for more than 2 weeks, remove the user-replaceable battery and store it separately. To prolong the charge of a stored battery, place it in a cool, dry place. 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.
When you disconnect external AC power, the following events occur: ● The computer switches to battery power. ● The display brightness is automatically decreased to save battery life. 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 lights are off.
Switchable graphics/dual graphics (select models only) Select computers are equipped with either switchable graphics or dual graphics. ● Switchable graphics—Supported by both AMD™ and Intel. If your computer has AMD dynamic switchable graphics, it supports only switchable graphics. ● Dual graphics—Supported only by AMD. If your computer has AMD Radeon dual graphics, it supports only dual graphics. NOTE: Dual graphics can be enabled only by full-screen applications that use DirectX version 10 or 11.
for full-screen applications that use DirectX version 10 or 11. For more information about DirectX, see http://www.microsoft.com/directx. NOTE: Dual graphics systems only support automatic selection based on power requirements (Dynamic scheme), and automatically assign Performance mode or Power Saving mode for individual applications. However, you can manually modify the settings for a particular application.
5 External cards and devices Using Media Card Reader 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. To determine the digital card formats that are supported on your computer, see the Getting Started guide. Inserting a digital card CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to the digital card connectors, use minimal force to insert a digital card.
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. 1. Save your information and close all programs associated with the digital card. 2. Click the remove hardware icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar. Then follow the on-screen instructions. 3. Press in on the card (1), and then remove it from the slot (2). NOTE: If the card does not eject, pull the card out of the slot.
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. NOTE: The following illustration may look slightly different than your device. The ExpressCard slot may contain a protective insert. To remove the insert: 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. 1. Save your information and close all programs associated with the ExpressCard. 2. Click the remove hardware icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar, and then follow the on-screen instructions. 3. Release and remove the ExpressCard: a. Gently press in on the ExpressCard (1) to unlock it. b.
Inserting a smart card 1. Hold the card label-side up, and gently slide the card into the smart card reader until the card is seated. 2. Follow the on-screen instructions for logging on to the computer using the smart card PIN. Removing a smart card ▲ Grasp the edge of the smart card, and then pull it out of the smart card reader.
Connecting a USB device CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to a USB connector, use minimal force to connect the device. ▲ Connect the USB cable for the device to the USB port. NOTE: The following illustration may look slightly different than your computer. You will hear a sound when the device has been detected. NOTE: The first time you connect a USB device, a message in the notification area lets you know that the device is recognized by the computer.
Connecting a 1394 device CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to a 1394 port connector, use minimal force to connect the device. ▲ To connect a 1394 device to the computer, connect the 1394 cable for the device to the 1394 port. You will hear a sound when the device has been detected. Removing a 1394 device CAUTION: To reduce the risk of loss of information or an unresponsive system, stop the 1394 device before removing it.
Connecting an eSATA device CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to an eSATA port connector, use minimal force to connect the device. ▲ To connect an eSATA device to the computer, connect the eSATA cable for the device to the eSATA port. You will hear a sound when the device has been detected. Removing an eSATA device CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to an eSATA connector, do not pull on the cable to remove the eSATA device.
Using a serial device (select models only) Select computer models include a serial port that connects optional devices such as a serial modem, mouse, or printer. Some serial devices may require additional support software, which is usually included with the device. For more information about device-specific software, see the manufacturer's instructions. ▲ To connect a serial device, connect the device cable to the serial port on the computer.
USB drives include the following types: ● 1.44-megabyte diskette drive ● Hard drive module ● External optical drive (CD, DVD, and Blu-ray) ● MultiBay device Using the expansion port (select models only) The expansion port connects the computer to an optional docking or expansion device, so that additional ports and connectors can be used with the computer. Using the docking connector (select models only) The docking connector connects the computer to an optional docking device.
Using optional external devices 41
6 Drives Handling drives CAUTION: Drives are fragile computer components that must be handled with care. See the following cautions before handling drives. Additional cautions are included with the procedures to which they apply. Observe these precautions: 42 ● Before you move a computer that is connected to an external hard drive, initiate Sleep and allow the screen to clear, or properly disconnect the external hard drive.
Using hard drives Improving hard drive performance Using Disk Defragmenter As you use the computer, files on the hard drive become fragmented. Disk Defragmenter consolidates the fragmented files and folders on the hard drive so that the system can run more efficiently. NOTE: It is not necessary to run Disk Defragmenter on solid-state drives. After you start Disk Defragmenter, it works without supervision.
Using HP 3D DriveGuard (select models only) HP 3D DriveGuard protects the hard drive by parking the drive and halting data requests under either of the following conditions: ● You drop the computer. ● You move the computer with the display closed while the computer is running on battery power. A short time after the end of one of these events, HP 3D DriveGuard returns the hard drive to normal operation. NOTE: Because solid-state drives (SSD) lack moving parts, HP 3D DriveGuard is unnecessary.
Using HP 3D DriveGuard software The HP 3D DriveGuard software enables you to perform the following tasks: ● Enable and disable HP 3D DriveGuard. NOTE: Depending on your user privileges, you may be unable to enable or disable HP 3D DriveGuard. Privileges for non-administrator users can be changed by members of an administrator group. ● Determine whether a drive in the system is supported. To open the software and change settings, follow these steps: 1.
5. Gently press the disc (3) down onto the tray spindle until the disc snaps into place. 6. Close the disc tray. NOTE: After you insert a disc, a short pause is normal. If you have not selected a media player, an AutoPlay dialog box opens. It prompts you to select how you want to use the media content. Slot-load CAUTION: Do not insert 8-cm optical discs into a slot-load optical drive. It may cause damage to the optical drive. 1. Turn on the computer. 2.
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. Slot-load 48 1. Press the release button (1) next to the drive. 2. Remove the disc (2) by holding it by the edges and avoid touching the flat surfaces. 3.
Sharing optical drives Although your computer may not have an integrated optical drive, you can access software and data, and install applications, by sharing an optical drive connected to another computer in your network. Sharing drives is a feature of the Windows operating system that allows a drive on one computer to be accessible to other computers on the same network.
7 Security Protecting the computer Computer security is essential for protecting the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of your information. Standard security features provided by the Windows operating system, the non-Windows Computer Setup utility (BIOS), and other third-party software can protect your personal settings and data from a variety of risks, such as viruses, worms, and other types of malicious code. NOTE: Security solutions are designed to act as deterrents.
Computer risk Security feature Unauthorized access to a Windows user account Windows user password Unauthorized access to data ● Firewall software ● Windows updates ● Drive Encryption for HP ProtectTools Unauthorized access to Computer Setup settings and other system identification information BIOS administrator password in Computer Setup* Unauthorized removal of the computer Security cable slot (used with an optional security cable) *Computer Setup is a preinstalled, ROM-based utility that c
Setting passwords in Windows Password Function Administrator password* Protects access to a Windows administrator-level account. NOTE: This password cannot be used to access Computer Setup contents. User password* Protects access to a Windows user account. *For information about setting a Windows administrator password or a Windows user password, select Start > Help and Support.
Setting passwords in Computer Setup Password Function BIOS administrator password* Protects access to Computer Setup. DriveLock master password* Protects access to the internal hard drive that is protected by DriveLock. It is also used to remove DriveLock protection. This password is set under DriveLock Passwords during the enable process. DriveLock user password* Protects access to the internal hard drive that is protected by DriveLock, and is set under DriveLock Passwords during the enable process.
Changing a BIOS administrator password 1. Turn on or restart the computer, and then press esc while the “Press the ESC key for Startup Menu” message is displayed at the bottom of the screen. 2. Press f10 to enter Computer Setup. 3. Use a pointing device or the arrow keys to select Security > Change Password, and then press enter. 4. When prompted, type your current password. 5. When prompted, type your new password again to confirm. 6.
Managing a DriveLock password To set, change, or delete a DriveLock password in Computer Setup, follow these steps: 1. Turn on the computer, and then press esc while the “Press the ESC key for Startup Menu” message is displayed at the bottom of the screen. 2. Press f10 to enter Computer Setup. 3. Use a pointing device or the arrow keys to select Security > DriveLock Password, and then press follow the on-screen instructions. 4.
Removing Automatic DriveLock protection To remove DriveLock protection in Computer Setup, follow these steps: 1. Turn on or restart the computer, and then press esc while the “Press the ESC key for Startup Menu” message is displayed at the bottom of the screen. 2. Press f10 to enter Computer Setup. 3. Use a pointing device or the arrow keys to select Security > Automatic DriveLock, and then press enter. 4. Use a pointing device or the arrow keys to select an internal hard drive, and then press enter.
Using the fingerprint reader (select models only) Integrated fingerprint readers are available on select computer models. In order to use the fingerprint reader, you must set up a user account with a Windows password on the computer. This account allows you to log on to your computer with a swipe of a designated finger. You may also use the fingerprint reader to fill in password fields on Web sites and other programs that require a logon. See the HP ProtectTools software Help for instructions.
Using Internet security software When you use the computer to access email, a network, or the Internet, you potentially expose the computer to computer viruses, spyware, and other malicious attacks that can disable the operating system, programs, or utilities, or cause them to function abnormally. Using antivirus software Antivirus software can detect most viruses, destroy them, and, in most cases, repair any damage they have caused.
Updates to the operating system and other software may have become available after the computer left the factory. To be sure that all available updates are installed on the computer, observe these guidelines: ● Run Windows Update as soon as possible after you set up your computer. ● Run Windows Update monthly thereafter. ● Obtain updates to Windows and other Microsoft programs, as they are released, from the Microsoft website and through the updates link in Help and Support.
8 Maintenance Cleaning your computer Cleaning products Use the following products to safely clean and disinfect your computer: ● Dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride 0.3 percent maximum concentration (For example: germicidal disposable wipes. These wipes come in a variety of brand names.
Cleaning the sides and cover To clean and disinfect the sides and cover, use a soft microfiber cloth or chamois moistened with one of the cleaning solutions listed previously or use an acceptable germicidal disposable wipe. CAUTION: When cleaning the TouchPad and keyboard, do not let liquids drip between the keys. This can permanently damage internal components. NOTE: debris.
Updating programs and drivers HP recommends that you update your programs and drivers on a regular basis with the latest versions. For U.S. support, go to http://www.hp.com/go/contactHP. For worldwide support, go to http://welcome.hp.com/country/us/en/wwcontact_us.html.
Using SoftPaq Download Manager HP SoftPaq Download Manager (SDM) is a tool that provides quick access to SoftPaq information for HP business computers without requiring the SoftPaq number. Using this tool, you can easily search for SoftPaqs, and then download and unpack them. SoftPaq Download Manager works by reading and downloading, from the HP FTP site, a published database file containing computer model and SoftPaq information.
Using HP Software Setup utility HP Software Setup utility is a tool that provides quick access to applications that are not already installed on the computer. HP Software Setup utility allows you to install hardware-enabling drivers and optional software applications. This tool can also be used to download any application updates using SoftPaq Download Manager. To access HP Software Setup utility, select Start > All Programs > HP Help and Support > HP Software Setup.
9 Computer Setup (BIOS) and Advanced System Diagnostics Using 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 devices 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.
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. ● 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.
Updating the BIOS The next sections describe different ways of updating the BIOS. Downloading SoftPaqs to update the BIOS Most BIOS updates on the HP website are packaged in compressed files called SoftPaqs. To install BIOS updates from the HP website, follow the steps below: 1. Download the SoftPaq from the HP website. 2. Click Run, and then follow the on-screen instructions to update the BIOS. NOTE: Some download packages contain a file named Readme.
Using f10 setup to update the BIOS 1. Download the SoftPaq from the HP website. NOTE: Verify that the UEFI system diagnostics is installed on your computer (or USB flash drive). 2. Click Run, and then click Cancel at the Update/USB bootable dialog box. 3. Navigate to the folder located in c:\swsetup that corresponds to your SoftPaq number. 4. Locate the .bin file in the ROMpaq folder (for example, 68CDD.
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.
Main menu Select To do this System information ● View and change the system time and date. ● View identification information about your computer. ● View specification information about the processor, memory size, and system BIOS. Security menu Select To do this Administrator password Control access to Setup Utility. Power-on password Control access to your computer. TPM Status Disable and enable (select models only). TPM Operation Select no operation and TPM status (select models only).
● Memory test—This test analyzes the physical condition of the memory modules. If it reports an error, replace the memory modules immediately. ● Battery test—This test analyzes the condition of the battery and calibrates the battery if necessary. If the battery fails the test, contact support to report the issue and purchase a replacement battery. You can view system information and error logs in the Advanced System Diagnostics window. To start Advanced System Diagnostics: 1.
10 MultiBoot About the boot device order As the computer starts, the system attempts to boot from enabled boot devices. The MultiBoot utility, which is enabled at the factory, controls the order in which the system selects a boot device. Boot devices can include optical drives, diskette drives, a network interface card (NIC), hard drives, and USB devices. Boot devices contain bootable media or files that the computer needs to start and operate properly.
Enabling boot devices in Computer Setup The computer will boot to a USB device or a NIC device only if the device has first been enabled in Computer Setup. To start Computer Setup and enable a USB device or a NIC device as a boot device, follow these steps: 1. Turn on or restart the computer, and then press esc while the “Press the ESC key for Startup Menu” message is displayed at the bottom of the screen. 2. Press f10 to enter Computer Setup. 3.
● Changing the boot order also changes the logical drive designations. For example, if you start up from a CD-ROM drive with a disc formatted as drive C, that CD-ROM drive becomes drive C and the hard drive in the hard drive bay becomes drive D. ● The computer will boot from a NIC device only if the device has been enabled in the Built-In Device Options menu of Computer Setup and if booting from the device has been enabled in the Boot Options menu of Computer Setup.
Dynamically choosing a boot device using the f9 prompt To dynamically choose a boot device for the current startup sequence, follow these steps: 1. Open the Select Boot Device menu by turning on or restarting the computer, and then pressing esc while the “Press the ESC key for Startup Menu” message is displayed at the bottom of the screen. 2. Press f9. 3. Use a pointing device or the arrow keys to select a boot device, and then press enter. Your changes go into effect immediately.
A Traveling with the computer If you have to travel with or ship your computer, here are some tips to keep in mind to keep your equipment safe. ● Prepare the computer for traveling or shipping: ◦ Back up your information to an external drive. ◦ Remove all discs and all external media cards, such as digital cards from the computer.
● If you are shipping the computer or a drive, use suitable protective packaging and label the package “FRAGILE.” ● If you are traveling internationally, follow these suggestions: ◦ Check the computer-related customs regulations for each country or region on your itinerary. ◦ Check the power cord and adapter requirements for each location in which you plan to use the computer. Voltage, frequency, and plug configurations vary.
B Troubleshooting resources ● Access website links and additional information about the computer through Help and Support. Select Start > Help and Support. NOTE: Some checkup and repair tools require an Internet connection. HP also provides additional tools that do not require an Internet connection. ● Contact support. For U.S. support, go to http://www.hp.com/go/contactHP. For worldwide support, go to http://welcome.hp.com/country/us/en/wwcontact_us.html.
C 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 Symbols/Numerics 1394 cable, connecting 1394 devices connecting 37 defined 36 removing 37 37 A AC adapter, testing 28 administrator password 52 advanced system diagnostics 70 airport security devices 42 antivirus software 58 audio functions, checking 15 Automatic DriveLock password entering 55 removing 56 B battery conserving power 26 discharging 25 displaying remaining charge 25 disposing 27 low battery levels 25 replacing 27 storing 26 Battery Check 25 battery information, finding 24 battery powe
external monitor port 16 K keys media 14 volume 15 F Face Recognition 15 face recognition 50 finding more information 1 fingerprint reader 57 firewall software 6, 58 G GPS 9 graphics modes, switching 29 H hard drive external 39 HP 3D DriveGuard 44 hard drive light 44 HDMI port, connecting 18 HDMI, configuring audio 18 Hibernation exiting 21 initiated during critical battery level 26 initiating 21 high-definition devices, connecting 18, 19 hotkeys, media 14 HP 3D DriveGuard 44 HP Connection Manager 4 HP
Disk Defragmenter 43 firewall 58 HP Connection Manager 4 storing a battery 26 switch, power 20 switchable graphics 29 T temperature 26 testing an AC adapter 28 traveling with the computer 26, 76 tray-load optical drive 45 troubleshooting resources 78 turning off the computer 20 turning wireless devices on or off 4 U unresponsive system 20 USB cable, connecting 36 USB devices connecting 36 description 35 removing 36 USB hubs 35 USB legacy support 65 user password 52 using external AC power 27 modem 9 power m
