HP Notebook Reference 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. 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. Java is a U.S. trademark of Sun Microsystems, Inc. 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 .................................................................................................................................................. 13 Adjusting the volume ......................................................................................................... 14 Checking audio functions on the computer ........................................................................ 14 Webcam (select models only) .................................................................................
Replacing the battery ......................................................................................................... 25 Using external AC power .................................................................................................................... 25 Testing an AC adapter ....................................................................................................... 26 Using HP CoolSense (select models only) ....................................................................
Inserting an optical disc ..................................................................................................... 39 Tray load ........................................................................................................... 39 Slot load ............................................................................................................ 40 Removing an optical disc ...................................................................................................
Restoring factory settings in Setup Utility (BIOS) .............................................................. 53 Exiting Setup Utility (BIOS) ................................................................................................ 54 Updating the BIOS ............................................................................................................. 54 Determining the BIOS version ........................................................................... 54 Downloading a BIOS update .
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1 Introduction This guide contains general information about HP and Compaq notebook computers, including connecting to a wireless network, multimedia, power management, security, and so on. NOTE: Some of the features described in this guide may not be available on your computer.
2 Networking (select models only) Your computer supports two types of Internet access: ● Wireless—Refer to Creating a wireless connection on page 2. ● Wired—Refer to Connecting to a wired network on page 8. NOTE: You must set up Internet service before you can connect to the Internet.
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.
Using operating system controls The Network and Sharing Center allows you to set up a connection or network, connect to a network, manage wireless networks, and diagnose and repair network problems. To use operating system controls: ▲ Select Start > Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center. For more information, select Start > Help and Support. Using a WLAN A wireless connection connects the computer to Wi-Fi networks, or WLANs.
NOTE: Some cable modems include a built-in router. Check with your ISP to see if you need a separate router. The illustration below shows an example of a wireless network installation that is connected to the Internet. NOTE: When setting up a wireless connection, be sure that your computer and wireless router are synchronized. To synchronize your computer and wireless router, turn your computer and wireless router off and then back on.
generate a new key for every packet, and they also generate a different set of keys for each computer network. To accomplish this: ● ◦ WPA uses Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) and Temporal Key Integrity Protocol (TKIP) ◦ WPA2 uses Cipher Block Chaining Message Authentication Code Protocol (CCMP), which is a new AES protocol. Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) encrypts data with a WEP key before it is transmitted. Without the correct key, others will not be able to use the WLAN.
3. Disconnect all external devices connected to the computer. 4. Unplug the power cord from the AC outlet. 5. Remove the battery. 6. Insert the SIM into the SIM slot, and gently press the SIM into the slot until it is firmly seated. CAUTION: When inserting a SIM, position the card to match the icon next to the SIM slot on the computer. If a SIM is inserted incorrectly, it could damage the SIM and the SIM connector. To reduce the risk of damage to the connector, use minimal force when inserting a SIM.
Using Bluetooth wireless devices 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 ● Imaging devices (cameras and printers) ● Audio devices ● Mouse Bluetooth devices provide peer-to-peer capability that allows you to set up a personal area network (PAN) of Bluetooth devices.
Connecting a modem cable 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). 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.
3. Plug the modem cable adapter (3) into the telephone wall jack. Selecting a location setting Viewing the current location selection To view the current location: 1. Select Start > Control Panel. 2. Click Clock, Language, and Region. 3. Click Region and Language. 4. Click the Location tab to display your location.
To add a new location: 1. Select Start > Devices and Printers. 2. Right-click the device that represents your computer, and click Modem settings. NOTE: You must set up an initial (current) location area code before you can view the Dialing Rules tab. If you do not have a location already set up, you are prompted to enter the location when you click Modem settings. 3. Click the Dialing Rules tab. 4. Click New. The New Location window opens. 5.
2. Plug the other end of the network cable into a network wall jack (2) or router. WARNING! To reduce the risk of electric shock, fire, or damage to the equipment, do not plug a modem cable or telephone cable into an RJ-45 (network) jack.
3 Multimedia Your computer may include the following: ● One or two integrated speakers ● One or two integrated microphones ● 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 actio
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, refer to the Regulatory, Safety and Environmental Notices. NOTE: Volume can also be controlled through the operating system and some programs.
For information on how to access the webcam, refer to the Getting Started guide. For information on using the webcam, select Start > Help and Support. Video Your computer may have one or more of the following external video ports: ● VGA ● DisplayPort ● 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 digital display device, connect the device cable to the DisplayPort. NOTE: For product-specific instructions on switching the screen image, refer to your Getting Started guide. HDMI 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: For product-specific instructions on switching the screen image, refer to your Getting Started guide. Configuring audio for HDMI 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 Playback devices. 2.
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 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 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: ▲ Select 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.
Customizing power plans To customize a power plan: 1. Click the power meter icon in the notification area, and then click More power options. – or – Select Start > Control Panel > System and Security > Power Options. 2. Select a power plan, and then click Change plan settings. 3. Change the settings as needed. 4. To change additional settings, click Change advanced power settings and make your changes.
Using battery power When a charged battery is in the computer and the computer is not plugged into external power, the computer runs on battery power. When the computer is plugged into external AC power, the computer runs on AC power. If the computer contains a charged battery and is running on external AC power, the computer switches to battery power if the AC adapter is disconnected from the computer.
Displaying the remaining battery charge ▲ Move the pointer over the power meter icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar. Maximizing battery discharge time Battery discharge time varies depending on the features you use while on battery power. Maximum discharge time gradually decreases as the battery storage capacity naturally degrades. Tips for maximizing battery discharge time: ● Lower the brightness on the display.
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 proper battery disposal.
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. 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.
5 External cards and 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. To determine the digital card formats that are supported on your computer, refer to the Getting Started guide.
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.
2. Pull the insert out of the slot (2). To insert an ExpressCard: 1. Hold the card label-side up, with the connectors facing the computer. 2. Insert the card into the ExpressCard slot, and then press in on the card until it is firmly seated. You will hear a sound when the card has been detected, and a menu of options may be displayed. NOTE: The first time you connect an ExpressCard, a message in the notification area lets you know that the card is recognized by the computer.
Using smart cards (select models only) NOTE: The term smart card is used throughout this chapter to refer to both smart cards and Java™ Cards. A smart card is a credit card-sized accessory that carries a microchip containing memory and a microprocessor. Like personal computers, some smart cards have an operating system to manage input and output, and they include security features to protect against tampering. Industry-standard smart cards are used with the smart card reader (select models only).
Removing a smart card ▲ Grasp the edge of the smart card, and then pull it out of the smart card reader. Using a USB device Universal Serial Bus (USB) is a hardware interface that can be used to connect an optional external device, such as a USB keyboard, mouse, drive, printer, scanner, or hub. Some USB devices may require additional support software, which is usually included with the device. For more information about device-specific software, refer to the manufacturer's instructions.
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. Removing a USB device CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to a USB connector, do not pull on the cable to remove the USB device. CAUTION: To reduce the risk of loss of information or an unresponsive system, use the following procedure to safely remove the USB device. 1.
Removing a 1394 device CAUTION: To reduce the risk of loss of information or an unresponsive system, stop the 1394 device before removing it. CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to a 1394 connector, do not pull on the cable to remove the 1394 device. 1. To remove a 1394 device, save your information and close all programs associated with the device. 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.
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. CAUTION: To reduce the risk of loss of information or an unresponsive system, use the following procedure to safely remove the device. 1. To remove an eSATA device, save your information and close all programs associated with the device. 2.
Using optional external devices 35
6 Drives 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. Observe these precautions: 36 ● 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.
A short time after the end of one of these events, HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection returns the hard drive to normal operation. NOTE: Because solid-state drives (SSD) lack moving parts, HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection is unnecessary. NOTE: Hard drives in the primary hard drive bay or in the secondary hard drive bay are protected by HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection. Hard drives connected to USB ports are not covered by HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection.
Using HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection software The HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection software can be enabled or disabled by an Administrator. NOTE: Depending on your user privileges, you may be unable to enable or disable HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection. Privileges for non-Administrator users can be changed by members of an Administrator group. 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 42 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 Standard security features provided by the Windows® operating system and the non-Windows Setup Utility (BIOS) can protect your personal settings and data from a variety of risks. 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. NOTE: Before you send your computer for service, back up and delete confidential files, and remove all password settings.
NOTE: To reduce the risk of being locked out of the computer, record each password and store it in a secure place. You can use the same password for a Setup Utility (BIOS) feature and for a Windows security feature. You can also use the same password for more than one Setup Utility (BIOS) feature. For additional information about Windows passwords, such as screen-saver passwords, select Start > Help and Support.
Password Function Power-on password* ● Protects access to the computer contents. ● After this password is set, it must be entered each time you turn on or restart the computer, or exit Hibernation. CAUTION: If you forget your power-on password, you cannot turn on or restart the computer, or exit Hibernation. NOTE: The administrator password can be used in place of the power-on password. NOTE: A power-on password is not displayed as it is set, entered, changed, or deleted.
Managing a power-on password To set, change, or delete this password, follow these steps: 1. Open Setup Utility (BIOS) 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 > Power-On Password, and then press enter. 3.
There are two types of firewalls to consider: ● Host-based firewalls—Software that protects only the computer it is installed on. ● Network-based firewalls—Installed between your DSL or cable modem and your home network to protect all the computers on the network. When a firewall is installed on a system, all data sent to and from the system is monitored and compared with a set of user-defined security criteria. Any data that does not meet those criteria is blocked.
3. Insert the cable lock into the security cable slot on the computer (3), and then lock the cable lock with the key. 4. Remove the key and keep it in a safe place. 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 password on the computer. This account allows you to log on to your computer with a swipe of a designated finger.
8 Maintenance Cleaning your computer Cleaning the display CAUTION: To prevent permanent damage to the computer, never spray water, cleaning fluids, or chemicals on the display. To remove smudges and lint, frequently clean the display with a soft damp, lint-free cloth. If the screen requires additional cleaning, use premoistened antistatic wipes or an antistatic screen cleaner. Cleaning the TouchPad and keyboard Dirt and grease on the TouchPad can cause the pointer to jump around on the screen.
Using SoftPaq Download Manager HP SoftPaq Download Manager (SDM) is a tool that provides quick access to SoftPaq information 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.
9 Setup Utility (BIOS) and System Diagnostics Using Setup Utility (BIOS) 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. NOTE: Use extreme care when making changes in Setup Utility (BIOS).
Navigating and selecting in Setup Utility (BIOS) To navigate and select in Setup Utility (BIOS), follow these steps: 1. 2. 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. ● To select a menu or a menu item, use the tab key and the keyboard arrow keys and then press enter. ● To scroll up and down, use the up arrow key or the down arrow key.
3. Use the arrow keys to select Exit > Load Setup Defaults. 4. Follow the on-screen instructions. 5. To save your changes and exit, press f10, and then follow the on-screen instructions. – or – Use the arrow keys to select Exit > Exit Saving Changes, and then press enter. Your changes go into effect when the computer restarts. NOTE: Your password settings and security settings are not changed when you restore the factory settings.
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.
Using System Diagnostics System Diagnostics allows you to run diagnostic tests to determine if the computer hardware is functioning properly. Depending on your computer, the following diagnostic tests may be available in System Diagnostics: ● Start-up test—This test analyzes the main computer components that are required to start the computer. ● Run-in test—This test repeats the start-up test and checks for intermittent problems that the start-up test does not detect.
A Traveling with the computer For best results, follow these traveling and shipping tips: ● Prepare the computer for traveling or shipping: ◦ Back up your information. ◦ Remove all discs and all external media cards, such as digital cards. CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to the computer, damage to a drive, or loss of information, remove the media from a drive before removing the drive from a drive bay and before shipping, storing, or traveling with a drive.
hazardous locations. If you are uncertain of the policy that applies to the use of a particular device, ask for authorization to use it before you turn it on. ● If you are traveling internationally, follow these suggestions: ◦ Check the computer-related customs regulations for each country or region on your itinerary. ◦ Check the power cord and adapter requirements for each location in which you plan to use the computer. Voltage, frequency, and plug configurations vary.
B Troubleshooting resources ● Access Web site 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 HP Customer Support at http://www.hp.com/go/contactHP. NOTE: For worldwide support, click Contact HP worldwide on the left side of the page, or go to http://welcome.hp.
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 32 1394 devices connecting 32 defined 32 removing 33 A AC adapter, testing 26 action keys media 13 volume 14 administrator password creating 46 entering 46 managing 46 airport security devices 36 antivirus software, using 47 audio functions, checking 14 B battery conserving power 24 discharging 23 displaying remaining charge 23 disposing 25 low battery levels 23 replacing 25 storing 24 Battery Check 22 battery information, finding 22 battery power 22 battery te
H hard drive external 34 HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection 37 HDMI configuring audio 17 HDMI port, connecting 16 Hibernation exiting 19 initiated during critical battery level 23 initiating 19 high-definition devices, connecting 16, 17 HP Connection Manager 3 HP CoolSense 26 HP Mobile Broadband Module 6 HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection 37 HP USB Ethernet Adapter, connecting 11 hubs 31 I icons network 2 wireless 2 installing critical security updates 48 optional security cable 48 Intel Wireless Disp
Disk Defragmenter 37 HP Connection Manager 3 HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection 39 storing a battery 24 switch, power 18 system information, displaying 53 T temperature 24 testing an AC adapter 26 traveling with the computer 24, 57 tray-load optical drive 39 troubleshooting resources 59 turning off the computer 18 turning wireless devices on or off 3 wireless devices, turning on or off 3 wireless encryption 5 wireless network (WLAN) connecting to existing 4 equipment needed 4 security 5 writable media 1
