User Guide
© Copyright 2014 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 the Microsoft group of companies. The information contained herein is subject to change without notice.
Safety warning notice WARNING! To reduce the possibility of heat-related injuries or of overheating the computer, do not place the computer directly on your lap or obstruct the computer air vents. Use the computer only on a hard, flat surface. Do not allow another hard surface, such as an adjoining optional printer, or a soft surface, such as pillows or rugs or clothing, to block airflow.
iv Safety warning notice
Table of contents 1 Starting right ...................................................................................................................................................... 1 Visit the HP Apps Store ........................................................................................................................ 1 Best practices ....................................................................................................................................... 1 More HP resources ......
Using an Internet service provider .................................................................... 22 Setting up a WLAN ............................................................................................ 22 Configuring a wireless router ............................................................................ 22 Protecting your WLAN ....................................................................................... 22 Connecting to a WLAN ................................................
Using HP Performance Advisor ...................................................................................................................... 42 Managing BIOS with HP Performance Advisor .................................................................................. 42 8 Managing power ............................................................................................................................................. 43 Initiating Sleep and Hibernation ....................................
Using antivirus software ..................................................................................................... 55 Using firewall software ....................................................................................................... 55 Installing software updates ................................................................................................................. 55 Installing critical security updates .....................................................................
1 Starting right With high-power performance and a highly customizable keyboard, HP OMEN is designed for the ultimate gaming experience. Visit the HP Apps Store The HP Apps Store offers a wide choice of popular games, entertainment and music apps, productivity apps, and apps exclusive to HP that you can download to the Start screen. The selection is updated regularly and includes regional content and country-specific offers. Be sure to check the HP Apps Store frequently for new and updated features.
More HP resources You have already used Setup Instructions to turn on the computer and locate this guide. To locate resources that provide product details, how-to information, and more, use this table. Resource Contents Setup Instructions ● Overview of computer setup and features Help and Support ● A broad range of how-to information and troubleshooting tips Worldwide support ● Online chat with an HP technician To get support in your language, go to http://welcome.hp.
Resource Contents When you request a printed copy of your warranty, please include your product number, warranty period (found on your service label), name, and postal address. IMPORTANT: Do NOT return your HP product to the addresses above. 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.
2 Getting to know your computer Finding your hardware and software information Locating hardware To find out what hardware is installed on your computer: 1. From the Start screen, type control panel, and then select Control Panel. 2. Select System and Security, select System, and then click Device Manager in the left column. A list displays all the devices installed on your computer. –or– 1. From the Start screen, type hp performance advisor, and then select HP Performance Advisor.
Right side Component (1) Description Memory card reader Reads optional memory cards that store, manage, share, or access information. To insert a card: Hold the card label-side up, with connectors facing the slot, insert the card into the slot, and then press in on the card until it is firmly seated. To remove a card: Press in on the card it until it pops out.
Rear Component (1) Description Vents (2) Enable airflow to cool internal components. NOTE: The computer fan starts up automatically to cool internal components and prevent overheating. It is normal for the internal fan to cycle on and off during routine operation. (2) AC adapter light ● On: The AC adapter is connected and the battery is charged. ● Off: The computer is using battery power. (3) Power connector Connects an AC adapter. (4) USB 3.
Display Component Description (1) WLAN antennas* Send and receive wireless signals to communicate with wireless local area networks (WLANs). (2) Internal microphones (2) Record sound. (3) Webcam light On: The webcam is in use. (4) Webcam Records video and captures photographs. Some models allow you to video conference and chat online using streaming video. To use the webcam, from the Start screen, type camera, and then select Camera from the list of applications.
Top Touchpad Component (1) Description Touchpad zone Reads your finger gestures to move the pointer or activate items on the screen. TIP: You can disable the touchpad or change the touchpad sensitivity and click speed. See Keyboard shortcuts on page 18 and Using the touchpad and gestures on page 31 for more information. 8 (2) Left touchpad button Functions like the left button on an external mouse. (3) Right touchpad button Functions like the right button on an external mouse.
Lights TIP: You can customize the keyboard lighting. See Lighting zones on page 16. Component (1) Description Power light ● On: The computer is on. ● Blinking: The computer is in the Sleep state, a powersaving state. The computer shuts off power to the display and other unneeded components. ● Off: The computer is off or in Hibernation. Hibernation is a power-saving state that uses the least amount of power. (2) Caps lock light On: Caps lock is on, which switches the keys to all capital letters.
Buttons and speakers Component (1) Description Power button ● When the computer is off, press the button to turn on the computer. ● When the computer is on, press the button briefly to initiate Sleep. ● When the computer is in the Sleep state, press the button briefly to exit Sleep. ● When the computer is in Hibernation, press the button briefly to exit Hibernation. CAUTION: Pressing and holding down the power button will result in the loss of unsaved information.
Keys TIP: You can customize these keys in HP OMEN Control. SeeAdvanced keyboard settings on page 17. Component Description (1) Programmable gaming keys Allow you to create up to 30 different gaming key combinations when used alone or with the fn, ctrl, alt, or shift keys. See Gaming keys on page 15 for more information. (2) esc key Displays system information when pressed in combination with the fn key.
Labels The labels affixed to the computer provide information you may need when you troubleshoot system problems or travel internationally with the computer. IMPORTANT: All labels described in this section will be located in one of 3 places depending on your computer model: affixed to the bottom of the computer, located in the battery bay, or under the service door. TIP: You can also press fn+esc for system information. ● Service label—Provides important information to identify your computer.
3 Gaming keyboard Your computer includes a highly customizable keyboard with unique lighting effects. Create game profiles and configure shortcuts and lighting for an immersive gaming experience. NOTE: Keyboard macros are not supported. HP OMEN Control HP OMEN Control is a utility that allows you to customize your computer for your specific gaming needs.
Current settings Current Settings in HP OMEN Control shows you the current, active state of all the keyboard, lighting, and advanced settings. In Current Settings, you can view and change settings and they are instantly applied. To save current settings for future use: 1. From the Windows desktop, click the HP OMEN Control icon . 2. Under Profiles, select Current Settings, and then make any necessary changes. 3. Click the Save icon, and then type the name of the new user profile.
Gaming keys The keyboard has six programmable gaming keys (1) with up to five different settings each. You can create a total of 30 different gaming key combinations when used alone or with the fn, ctrl, alt, or shift keys. To program the gaming keys: 1. From the Windows desktop, click the HP OMEN Control icon . 2. Select the Key Assignments tab, and then click the box next to the gaming key you want to program. 3. Type any key assignment that you want, and then assign it to a user profile.
Lighting zones The keyboard includes programmable lighted keyboard zones that ensure that you hit the right key every time, even when gaming in low-light conditions. With HP OMEN Control you can customize the colors of each zone for each user profile. NOTE: When you first set up your computer, all of the lighting zones are red.
To customize the lighting zones for current settings or a user profile that you want to change: 1. From the Windows desktop, click the HP OMEN Control icon . 2. Select the Lighting tab. 3. On the keyboard image, click the lighting zone you want to customize. –or– In the drop-down box, select the lighting zone that you want to customize. 4. Select the color you want to change, and then assign it to a user profile. NOTE: profile.
Keyboard shortcuts There are three keyboard shortcuts that you can enable to customize your gaming experience. A keyboard shortcut is a combination of the fn key (1) and either the f, r, or t key (2). NOTE: If you restart the computer, the touch screen features will turn back on, and the touchpad will be re-enabled (unless a mouse is attached and that option is selected). Key combination Description fn+f Turns the computer fans on maximum speed. fn+r Turns the touchpad off and on.
1. From the Windows desktop, click the HP OMEN Control icon . 2. Select the Advanced tab. 3. Under Disable Keys and Function Key Defaults, select the key you want to disable.
4 Connecting to a network Your computer can travel with you wherever you go. But even at home, you can explore the globe and access information from millions of websites using your computer and a wired or wireless network connection. This chapter will help you get connected to that world. IMPORTANT: Your computer does not include an RJ-45 (network) jack. To connect to a wired network, you must use a USB Ethernet adapter (purchased separately).
Using operating system controls The Network and Sharing Center allows you to set up a connection or network, connect to a network, and diagnose and repair network problems. To use operating system controls: 1. From the Start screen, type control panel, and then select Control Panel. 2. Select Network and Internet, and then select Network and Sharing Center. For more information, from the Start screen, type help, and then select Help and Support.
Using an Internet service provider When you are setting up Internet access in your home, you must establish an account with an Internet service provider (ISP). To purchase Internet service and a modem, contact a local ISP. The ISP will help set up the modem, install a network cable to connect your wireless router to the modem, and test the Internet service. NOTE: Your ISP will give you a user ID and a password to use for Internet access. Record this information and store it in a safe place.
● Use a firewall. A firewall checks information and requests that are sent to your network, and discards any suspicious items. Firewalls are available in both software and hardware. Some networks use a combination of both types. ● Use wireless encryption. Wireless encryption uses security settings to encrypt and decrypt data that is transmitted over the network. For more information, from the Start screen, type help, and then select Help and Support.
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 (desktop, notebook, PDA) ● Phones (cellular, cordless, smart phone) ● Imaging devices (printer, camera) ● Audio devices (headset, speakers) ● Mouse Bluetooth devices provide peer-to-peer capability that allows you to set up a PAN of Bluetooth devices.
5 Enjoying entertainment features Use your HP computer as an entertainment hub to socialize via the webcam, enjoy and manage your music, and download and watch movies. Or, to make your computer an even more powerful entertainment center, connect external devices like a monitor, projector, or TV, or speakers and headphones. Multimedia features Here are some of the entertainment features on your computer. Component Description (1) Internal microphones (2) Record sound.
Component Description From the Start screen, type camera, and then select Camera from the list of applications. (4) Speakers (2) Produce sound. (5) Memory card reader Reads optional memory cards that store, manage, share, or access information. To insert a card: Hold the card label-side up, with connectors facing the slot, insert the card into the slot, and then press in on the card until it is firmly seated. To remove a card: Press in on the card it until it pops out. (6) USB 3.
Using audio On your computer, or on select models using an external optical drive, you can play music CDs, download and listen to music, stream audio content from the web (including radio), record audio, or mix audio and video to create multimedia. To enhance your listening enjoyment, attach external audio devices such as speakers or headphones.
Using video Your computer is a powerful video device that enables you to watch streaming video from your favorite websites and download video and movies to watch on your computer when you are not connected to a network. To enhance your viewing enjoyment, use one of the video ports on the computer to connect an external monitor, projector, or TV. IMPORTANT: Be sure that the external device is connected to the correct port on the computer, using the correct cable. Check the device manufacturer's instructions.
Setting up HDMI audio HDMI is the only video interface that supports high-definition video and audio. After you connect an HDMI TV to the computer, you can then turn on HDMI audio by following these steps: 1. From the Windows desktop, right-click the Speakers icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar, and then select Playback devices. 2. On the Playback tab, select the name of the digital output device. 3. Click Set Default, and then click OK.
NOTE: For best results, especially if you choose the “Extend” option, adjust the screen resolution of the external device, as follows. From the Start screen, type control panel, and then select Control Panel. Select Appearance and Personalization. Under Display, select Adjust screen resolution. Discovering and connecting to Miracast-compatible wireless displays (select models only) To discover and connect to Miracast-compatible wireless displays without leaving your current apps, follow the steps below.
6 Navigating the screen You can navigate the computer screen in the following ways: ● Touch gestures ● Keyboard and mouse Touch gestures can be used on your computer's touchpad or on a touch screen. NOTE: An external USB mouse (purchased separately) can be connected to one of the USB ports on the computer. Your computer has special action keys on the keyboard to perform routine tasks.
Tapping To make an on-screen selection, use the tap function on the touchpad. ● Point to an item on the screen, and then tap one finger on the touchpad zone to make a selection. Double-tap an item to open it. Scrolling Scrolling is useful for moving up, down, or sideways on a page or image. ● 32 Place two fingers slightly apart on the touchpad zone and then drag them up, down, left, or right.
2-finger pinch zoom 2-finger pinch zoom allows you to zoom out or in on images or text. ● Zoom out by placing two fingers apart on the touchpad zone and then moving your fingers together. ● Zoom in by placing two fingers together on the touchpad zone and then moving your fingers apart.
2-finger click 2-finger click allows you to make menu selections for an object on the screen. NOTE: ● 34 Using 2-finger click is the same action as using right-click with the mouse. Place two fingers on the touchpad zone and press down to open the options menu for the selected object.
Using touch screen gestures A touch screen computer allows you to control items on the screen directly with your fingers. TIP: On touch screen computers, you can perform the gestures on the screen or on the touchpad. You can also perform on-screen actions with the keyboard and mouse. One-finger slide The one-finger slide is mostly used to pan or scroll through lists and pages, but you can use it for other interactions, too, such as moving an object.
Tapping To make an on-screen selection, use the tap function. ● Use one finger to tap an object on the screen to make a selection. Double-tap an item to open it. Scrolling Scrolling is useful for moving the pointer up, down, left, or right on a page or image. ● 36 Place two fingers on the screen and then drag them in an up, down, left, or right motion.
2-finger pinch zoom 2-finger pinch zoom allows you to zoom out or in on images or text. ● Zoom out by placing two fingers apart on the screen and then moving your fingers together. ● Zoom in by placing two fingers together on the screen and then moving your fingers apart. Rotating (select models only) Rotating allows you to turn items such as photos. ● Anchor the forefinger of your left hand on the object you want to rotate.
Edge swipes With edge swipes you can perform tasks such as changing settings and finding or using apps. Right-edge swipe The right-edge swipe reveals the charms, which let you search, share, start apps, access devices, or change settings. ● Gently swipe your finger inward from the right edge of the display onto the screen to reveal the charms. Left-edge swipe The left-edge swipe reveals your open apps so that you can switch to them quickly.
Top-edge swipe and bottom-edge swipe The top-edge swipe or bottom-edge swipe displays app command options that allow you to customize apps. IMPORTANT: ● When an app is open, the top-edge gesture varies depending on the app. Gently swipe your finger from the top edge or the bottom edge to reveal the app command options. Using the keyboard and mouse The keyboard and mouse allow you to type, select items, scroll and to perform the same functions as you do using touch gestures.
The action key feature is enabled at the factory. You can disable this feature in HP OMEN Control. See Disable key assignments on page 18. After you have disabled the action key feature, you can still perform each function by pressing the appropriate key without the fn key. TIP: You can change function and customize the action keys in HP OMEN Control. See Advanced keyboard settings on page 17.
Using Windows shortcut keys Windows provides shortcuts so that you can perform actions quickly. Press the Windows key alone or in combination with a specific key to perform a designated action.
7 Using HP Performance Advisor HP Performance Advisor is designed to optimize your gaming computer experience by providing information and tools to benefit you. With HP Performance Advisor, you can do the following: ● View system information on your computer. ● Keep track of and modify BIOS settings, create custom groups, and restore BIOS factory defaults. ● Create block diagrams and memory graphs. ● Create configuration reports for hardware components and software information.
8 Managing power Your computer can operate on either battery power or external power. When the computer is running on battery power only and an AC power source is not available to charge the battery, it is important to monitor and conserve the battery charge. Your computer supports an optimal power plan to manage how your computer uses and conserves power so that computer performance is balanced with power conservation.
Manually initiating and exiting Sleep You can initiate Sleep in any of the following ways: ● Close the display. ● From the Start screen, point to the upper-right or lower-right corner of the screen to reveal the charms. Click Settings, click the Power icon, and then click Sleep. To exit Sleep: ● Briefly press the power button. ● If the display is closed, open the display. ● Press a key on the keyboard. ● Tap or swipe the touchpad.
Using the power meter and power settings The power meter is located on the Windows desktop. The power meter allows you to quickly access power settings and view the remaining battery charge. ● To reveal the percentage of remaining battery charge and the current power plan, on the Windows desktop, point over the power meter icon. ● To use Power Options, click the power meter icon and select an item from the list. From the Start screen, you can also type power options, and then select Power Options.
● Turn off wireless devices when you are not using them. ● Disconnect unused external devices that are not plugged into an external power source, such as an external hard drive connected to a USB port. ● Stop, disable, or remove any external media cards that you are not using. ● Before you leave your work, initiate Sleep or shut down the computer.
WARNING! To reduce potential safety issues, use only the AC adapter provided with the computer, a replacement AC adapter provided by HP, or a compatible AC adapter purchased from HP. Connect the computer to external AC power under any of the following conditions: WARNING! Do not charge the computer battery while you are onboard aircraft.
Refreshing your software content with Intel Smart Connect Technology (select models only) When the computer is in the Sleep state, Intel® Smart Connect Technology periodically causes the computer to exit Sleep. If a network connection is available, Smart Connect updates open apps such as your email inboxes, social network sites, and news pages and then returns the computer to the Sleep state. Smart Connect also syncs content that you have created offline, such as emails.
9 Maintaining your computer It is important to perform regular maintenance to keep your computer in optimal condition by using tools like Disk Cleanup. This chapter also includes ways to update programs and drivers, steps to clean the computer, and tips for traveling with (or shipping) the computer. Improving performance You can improve the performance of your computer by performing regular maintenance tasks with tools such as Disk Defragmenter and Disk Cleanup.
Updating programs and drivers HP recommends that you update your programs and drivers on a regular basis. Updates can resolve issues and bring new features and options to your computer. For example, older graphics components might not work well with the most recent gaming software. Without the latest driver, you would not be getting the most out of your equipment. Go to http://www.hp.com/support to download the latest versions of HP programs and drivers.
Cleaning the display Gently wipe the display using a soft, lint-free cloth moistened with an alcohol-free glass cleaner. Be sure that the display is dry before closing the display. Cleaning the sides or cover To clean the sides or cover, use a soft microfiber cloth or chamois moistened with one of the cleaning solutions listed previously or use an acceptable disposable wipe. NOTE: debris.
● If the computer has a wireless device installed, the use of these devices may be restricted in some environments. Such restrictions may apply aboard aircraft, in hospitals, near explosives, and in hazardous locations. If you are uncertain of the policy that applies to the use of a particular device, ask for authorization to use your computer before you turn it on.
10 Securing your computer and information Computer security is essential for protecting the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of your information. Standard security solutions provided by the Windows operating system, HP applications, the non-Windows Setup Utility (BIOS), and other third-party software can help protect your computer from a variety of risks, such as viruses, worms, and other types of malicious code.
Setting Windows passwords Password Function User password Protects access to a Windows user account. Administrator password Protects administrator-level access to computer contents. NOTE: This password cannot be used to access Setup Utility (BIOS) contents. Setting Setup Utility (BIOS) passwords Password Function Administrator password ● Must be entered each time you access Setup Utility (BIOS). ● If you forget your administrator password, you cannot access Setup Utility (BIOS).
the security software trial offer or purchase the software of your choice in order to fully protect your computer. Using antivirus software Computer viruses can disable programs, utilities, or the operating system, or cause them to function abnormally. Antivirus software can detect most viruses, destroy them, and in most cases, repair any damage they have caused. To provide ongoing protection against newly discovered viruses, antivirus software must be kept up to date.
If you have installed third-party software after you purchased your computer, regularly update the software. Software companies provide software updates to their products to correct security problems and improve functionality of the software. Securing your wireless network When you set up your wireless network, always enable security features. For more information, see Protecting your WLAN on page 22.
11 Using Setup Utility (BIOS) and HP PC Hardware Diagnostics (UEFI) Setup Utility, or Basic Input/Output System (BIOS), controls communication between all the input and output devices on the system (such as disk drives, display, keyboard, mouse, and printer). Setup Utility (BIOS) includes settings for the types of devices installed, the startup sequence of the computer, and the amount of system and extended memory.
Downloading a BIOS update CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to the computer or an unsuccessful installation, download and install a BIOS update only when the computer is connected to reliable external power using the AC adapter. Do not download or install a BIOS update while the computer is running on battery power, docked in an optional docking device, or connected to an optional power source.
To start HP PC Hardware Diagnostics UEFI: 1. Turn on or restart the computer, quickly press esc, and then press f2. The BIOS searches three places for the diagnostic tools, in the following order: a. Connected USB drive NOTE: To download the HP PC Hardware Diagnostics (UEFI) tool to a USB drive, see Downloading HP PC Hardware Diagnostics (UEFI) to a USB device on page 59. 2. b. Hard drive c.
12 Backing up, restoring, and recovering This chapter provides information about the following processes: ● Creating recovery media and backups ● Restoring and recovering your system Creating recovery media and backups 1. After you successfully set up the computer, create HP Recovery media. This step creates a backup of the HP Recovery partition on the computer. The backup can be used to reinstall the original operating system in cases where the hard drive is corrupted or has been replaced.
separately) to create recovery discs, or you can obtain recovery discs for your computer from support. See the Worldwide Telephone Numbers booklet included with the computer. You can also find contact information from the HP website. Go to http://www.hp.com/support, select your country or region, and follow the on-screen instructions.
For more information, see Removing the HP Recovery partition (select models only) on page 63. Recovering using HP Recovery Manager HP Recovery Manager software allows you to recover the computer to its original factory state by using the HP Recovery media that you created or by using the HP Recovery partition (select models only). If you have not already created recovery media, see Creating HP Recovery media on page 60.
Press and hold f11 as you press the power button. 2. Select Troubleshoot from the boot options menu. 3. Select Recovery Manager, and then follow the on-screen instructions. Using HP Recovery media to recover You can use HP Recovery media to recover the original system. This method can be used if your system does not have an HP Recovery partition or if the hard drive is not working properly. 1. If possible, back up all personal files. 2.
13 Specifications Input power The power information in this section may be helpful if you plan to travel internationally with the computer. The computer operates on DC power, which can be supplied by an AC or a DC power source. The AC power source must be rated at 100–240 V, 50–60 Hz. Although the computer can be powered from a standalone DC power source, it should be powered only with an AC adapter or a DC power source supplied and approved by HP for use with this computer.
14 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 2-finger pinch zoom touchpad gesture 33, 37 A AC adapter 6 AC adapter, testing 47 action keys decrease screen brightness 40 Help and Support 40 identifying 11 increase screen brightness 40 keyboard backlight 40 next track or section 40 play, pause, resume 40 previous track or section 40 switch screen image 40 volume down 40 volume mute 40 volume up 40 wireless 40 advanced gaming settings 17 airport security devices 49 antivirus software, using 55 audio features, testing 27 audio-out (
internal display switch, identifying 7 internal microphones, identifying 7, 25 Internet connection setup 22 Internet security software, using 54 J jacks audio-out (headphone)/audio-in (microphone) 6, 26 K keyboard backlight action key, identifying 40 keyboard shortcuts, gaming 18 keys action 11 esc 11 fn 11 programmable gaming 11 Windows 11 Windows application 11 L labels Bluetooth 12 Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity 12 regulatory 12 serial number 12 service 12 wireless certification 12 WLAN 12 left-ed
touchpad buttons 8 turn off and on 18 touchpad gestures 2-finger pinch zoom 33, 37 scrolling 32 touchpad zone, identifying 8 traveling with the computer 12, 51 turning off the computer 48 U unresponsive system 48 USB 3.0 port, identifying 6 USB 3.
