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. 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 .................................................................................................................................................. 15 Adjusting the volume ......................................................................................................... 16 Checking audio functions on the computer ........................................................................ 16 Webcam (select models only) .................................................................................
Testing an AC adapter ....................................................................................................... 32 Switching between graphics modes (select models only) .................................................................. 32 5 External cards and devices .......................................................................................................................... 33 Using Media Card Reader cards (select models only) .....................................................
Managing power with a parked hard drive ........................................................ 49 Using HP 3D DriveGuard software ................................................................... 50 Using optical drives (select models only) ........................................................................................... 50 Identifying the installed optical drive .................................................................................. 50 Inserting an optical disc ....................
Cleaning procedures .......................................................................................................... 70 Cleaning the display .......................................................................................... 70 Cleaning the sides and cover ............................................................................ 70 Cleaning the TouchPad and keyboard .............................................................. 71 Cleaning a tablet PC pen and pen holder .................
Appendix B Troubleshooting resources ....................................................................................................... 91 Appendix C Electrostatic Discharge .............................................................................................................. 92 Index ...................................................................................................................................................................
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 or SD Card: ● 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—Refer to Creating a wireless connection on page 2. ● Wired—Refer to Connecting to a wired network on page 9. NOTE: You must set up Internet service before you can connect to the Internet.
Network (disabled/ disconnected) Indicates that all network devices are disabled in Windows Control Panel. 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. Windows Vista® Icon Name Description Wireless (connected) Indicates that one or more wireless devices are on.
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. Refer to the Getting Started guide for information on identifying the 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 Windows 7 1. Be sure that the WLAN device is on. (Refer to 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. 4. Click Connect.
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 below shows an example of a wireless network installation that is connected to the Internet.
Windows does not recognize the new network, follow the same procedure you used initially to connect to your WLAN. Using HP Mobile Broadband (select models only) HP Mobile Broadband enables your computer to use wireless wide area networks (WWANs) to access the Internet from more places and over larger areas than it can by using WLANs. Using HP Mobile Broadband requires a network service provider, which in most cases is a mobile phone network provider.
8. Reconnect external power and external devices. 9. Turn on the computer. Removing a SIM NOTE: To identify the SIM slot location, refer to 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.
connected using Bluetooth, and Internet Connection Sharing (ICS) is enabled on one of the computers, the other computers may not be able to connect to the Internet using the Bluetooth network. The strength of Bluetooth is in synchronizing information transfers between your computer and wireless devices including cellular phones, printers, cameras, and PDAs.
2. 10 Plug the modem cable into the RJ-11 telephone wall jack (2).
Connecting a country- or region-specific modem cable adapter Telephone jacks vary by country or region. To use the modem and the modem cable outside the country or region in which you purchased the computer, you must obtain a country- or region-specific modem cable adapter. To connect the modem to an analog telephone line that does not have an RJ-11 telephone jack, follow these steps: 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.
Windows Vista 1. Select Start > Control Panel. 2. Click Hardware and Sound. 3. Click Phone and Modem Options. 4. Click the Dialing Rules tab. 5. Click New. The New Location window opens. 6. In the Location name box, type a name (such as home or work) for the new location setting. 7. Select a country or region from the Country/region list. (If you select a country or region that is not supported by the modem, the country/region selection for USA or UK is displayed.) 8.
2. Plug the other end of the network cable into a network wall jack (2). 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: ● 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 keys Refer to the Gett
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.
To check the recording functions on your computer, follow these steps: 1. Select Start > All Programs > Accessories > Sound Recorder. 2. Click Start Recording and speak into the microphone. Save the file to your desktop. 3. Open a multimedia program and play back the sound. To confirm or change the audio settings on your computer, select Start > Control Panel > Audio.
Webcam (select models only) Some computers include an integrated webcam. With the preinstalled software, you can use the webcam to take a photo or record a video. You can preview and save the photo or video recording. The webcam software enables you to experiment with the following features: ● Capturing and sharing video ● Streaming video with instant message software ● Taking still photos For information on how to access the webcam, refer to the Getting Started guide.
Video Your computer may have one or more of the following external video ports: ● VGA ● HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) NOTE: Refer to the Getting Started guide for information about your computer's video ports. VGA The external monitor port, or VGA port, is an analog display interface that connects an external VGA display device such as an external VGA monitor or a VGA projector to the computer. ▲ To connect a VGA display device, connect the device cable to the external monitor port.
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 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. Content that asserts output protection, such as DVD and Blu-ray discs, will not play on Intel Wireless Display. For details about using the wireless TV adapter, refer to the manufacturer's instructions.
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.
Power settings and timeouts can be changed in Windows Control Panel. To initiate Hibernation: ▲ Windows 7—Select Start, click the arrow next to the Shut down button, and then click Hibernate. Windows Vista—Select Start, click the arrow next to the Lock 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.
Customizing power plans Windows 7 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. Windows Vista 1. Click the power meter icon in the notification area, and then click More power options.
26 4. Click Require a password (recommended). 5. Click Save changes.
Using Power Assistant (select models only) Power Assistant allows you to configure system settings to optimize your computer's power consumption and battery charge.
Using Battery Check Battery Check in 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, refer to Using the power meter on page 24. 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.
● Decrease screen brightness. ● Before you leave your work, initiate Sleep or Hibernation, or shut down the computer. Storing a battery CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to a battery, do not expose it to high temperatures for extended periods of time. If a computer will be unused and unplugged from external power for more than 2 weeks, remove the battery and store it separately. To prolong the charge of a stored battery, place it in a cool, dry place.
When you connect the computer to external AC power, the following events occur: ● The battery begins to charge. ● If the computer is turned on, the power meter icon in the notification area changes appearance. 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. 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 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, 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. Either press in on the card (1), and then remove it from the slot (2). – or – Pull the card out of the slot.
Configuring a PC Card To reduce the risk of loss of support for other PC Cards during configuration, install only the software required for the device. If you are instructed by the PC Card manufacturer to install device drivers: ● Install only the device drivers for your operating system. ● Do not install other software, such as card services, socket services, or enablers, supplied by the PC Card manufacturer.
Inserting a PC Card CAUTION: To prevent damage to the computer and external media cards, do not insert an ExpressCard into a PC Card slot. CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to the connectors: Use minimal force when inserting a PC Card. Do not move or transport the computer when a PC Card is in use. The PC Card slot may contain a protective insert. The insert must be removed before you can insert a PC Card: 1. Press the PC Card eject button (1).
NOTE: To conserve power, stop or remove a PC Card when it is not in use. Removing a PC Card CAUTION: To reduce the risk of loss of data or an unresponsive system, stop a PC Card before removing it. 1. Save your information and close all programs associated with the PC Card. 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 PC Card: a. Press the PC Card eject button (1).
Inserting an ExpressCard CAUTION: To prevent damage to the computer and external media cards, do not insert a PC Card into an ExpressCard slot. CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to the connectors: Use minimal force when inserting an ExpressCard. Do not move or transport the computer when an ExpressCard is in use. The ExpressCard slot may contain a protective insert. To remove the insert: 1. Press in on the insert (1) to unlock it. 2. Pull the insert out of the slot (2). To insert an ExpressCard: 1.
Removing an ExpressCard CAUTION: To reduce the risk of loss of data or an unresponsive system, use the following procedure to safely remove the ExpressCard. 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 on 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, refer to 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. NOTE: The computer has only one expansion port.
46 Chapter 5 External cards and devices
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: ● 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 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 Computer Setup can protect your personal settings and data from a variety of risks. NOTE: Security solutions are designed to act as deterrents. These deterrents may not prevent a product from being mishandled or stolen. NOTE: Before you send your computer for service, back up and delete confidential files, and remove all password settings.
Using passwords A password is a group of characters that you choose to secure your computer information. Several types of passwords can be set, depending on how you want to control access to your information. Passwords can be set in Windows or in non-Windows Computer Setup that is preinstalled on the computer. ● Setup and DriveLock passwords are set in Computer Setup and are managed by the system BIOS.
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.
4. When prompted, type your current password. 5. When prompted, type your new password again to confirm. 6. To save your changes and exit Computer Setup, click the Save icon in the lower-left corner of the screen, and then follow the on-screen instructions. – or – Use the arrow keys to select File > Save Changes and Exit, and then press enter. Your changes go into effect when the computer restarts. Deleting a BIOS administrator password 1.
To apply DriveLock protection to an internal hard drive, a user password and a master password must be set in Computer Setup. Note the following considerations about using DriveLock protection: ● After DriveLock protection is applied to a hard drive, the hard drive can be accessed only by entering either the user password or the master password. ● The owner of the user password should be the day-to-day user of the protected hard drive.
Entering a DriveLock password Be sure that the hard drive is inserted into the computer (not into an optional docking device or external MultiBay). At the DriveLock Password prompt, type your user or master password (using the same kind of keys you used to set the password), and then press enter. After 2 incorrect attempts to enter the password, you must shut down the computer and try again. Changing a DriveLock password To change a DriveLock password in Computer Setup, follow these steps: 1.
6. Type your master password, and then press enter. 7. To save your changes and exit Computer Setup, click the Save icon in the lower-left corner of the screen, and then follow the on-screen instructions. – or – Use the arrow keys to select File > Save Changes and Exit, and then press enter. Your changes go into effect when the computer restarts. Using Computer Setup Auto DriveLock In a multiple-user environment, you can set an Automatic DriveLock password.
5. Use a pointing device or the arrow keys to select Disable protection. 6. To save your changes and exit Computer Setup, click the Save icon in the lower-left corner of the screen, and then follow the on-screen instructions. – or – Use the arrow keys to select File > Save Changes and Exit, and then press enter.
Using antivirus software When you use the computer to access e-mail, a network, or the Internet, you potentially expose it to computer viruses. Computer viruses can disable the operating system, programs, or utilities, 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.
Using firewall software Firewalls are designed to prevent unauthorized access to a system or network. A firewall can be a software program you install on your computer and/or network, or it can be a solution made up of both hardware and software. There are two types of firewalls to consider: ● Host-based firewalls—Software that protects only the computer it is installed on.
Installing critical security updates CAUTION: Microsoft sends out alerts regarding critical updates. To protect the computer from security breaches and computer viruses, install all critical updates from Microsoft as soon as you receive an alert. Updates to the operating system and other software may have become available after the computer left the factory.
Using HP ProtectTools Security Manager (select models only) HP ProtectTools Security Manager software is preinstalled on select computer models. This software can be accessed through Windows Control Panel. It provides security features that help protect against unauthorized access to the computer, networks, and critical data. For more information, refer to the HP ProtectTools online Help.
Installing an optional security cable NOTE: A security cable is designed to act as a deterrent, but it may not prevent the computer from being mishandled or stolen. NOTE: The security cable slot on your computer may look slightly different from the illustration in this section. Refer to the Getting Started guide for the location of the security cable slot on your computer. 1. Loop the security cable around a secured object. 2. Insert the key (1) into the cable lock (2). 3.
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. You may also use the fingerprint reader to fill in password fields on Web sites and other programs that require a logon. Refer to the fingerprint software Help for instructions.
8 Maintenance 69
Cleaning your computer Cleaning products Use the following products to safely clean and disinfect your notebook or tablet PC: ● Dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride 0.3 percent maximum concentration (For example: germicidal disposable wipes. These wipes come in a variety of brand names.
Cleaning the TouchPad and keyboard CAUTION: When cleaning the TouchPad and keyboard, do not let liquids drip between the keys. This can permanently damage internal components. ● To clean and disinfect the TouchPad and keyboard, use a soft microfiber cloth or chamois moistened with one of the cleaning solutions listed previously or use an acceptable germicidal disposable wipe.
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.
9 Computer Setup (BIOS) and 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: Cclick the Save icon in the lower-left corner of the screen, and then follow the on-screen instructions.
Updating the BIOS Updated versions of the BIOS may be available on the HP Web site. Most BIOS updates on the HP Web site are packaged in compressed files called SoftPaqs. Some download packages contain a file named Readme.txt, which contains information regarding installing and troubleshooting the file.
NOTE: If you connect your computer to a network, consult the network administrator before installing any software updates, especially system BIOS updates. BIOS installation procedures vary. Follow any instructions that are displayed on the screen after the download is complete. If no instructions are displayed, follow these steps: 1. Open Windows Explorer by selecting Start > Computer. 2. Double-click your hard drive designation. The hard drive designation is typically Local Disk (C:). 3.
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.
Considering boot order changes Before changing the boot order, note the following considerations: ● When the computer restarts after the boot order has been changed, the computer attempts to start using the new boot order. ● If there is more than one type of boot device, the computer attempts to boot using the first of each type of boot device (except for optical devices).
Choosing MultiBoot preferences You can use MultiBoot in the following ways: ● To set a new boot order that the computer uses each time it is turned on, by changing the boot order in Computer Setup. ● To dynamically choose the boot device, by pressing esc while the “Press the ESC key for Startup Menu” message is displayed at the bottom of the screen, and then pressing f9 to enter the Boot Device Options menu. ● To use MultiBoot Express to set variable boot orders.
Setting a MultiBoot Express prompt To start Computer Setup and set the computer to display the MultiBoot startup location menu each time the computer is started or restarted, 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 System Configuration > Boot Options, and then press enter. 4.
11 Management Using Client Management Solutions Client Management Solutions software provides standards-based solutions for managing client (user) desktop, workstation, notebook, and tablet computers in a networked environment.
Managing and updating software HP provides several tools for managing and updating software on client computers: ● HP Client Manager for Altiris (select models only) NOTE: To download HP Client Manager for Altiris or to obtain more information about HP Client Manager for Altiris, see the HP Web site at http://www.hp.com.
● ● Help desk and problem resolution ◦ Management of help desk tickets ◦ Remote troubleshooting ◦ Remote problem resolution ◦ Client disaster recovery Software and operations management ◦ Ongoing client management ◦ HP system software deployment ◦ Application self-healing (the ability to identify and repair certain application problems) Altiris Solutions software provides easy-to-use software distribution capabilities.
HP CCM (Client Configuration Manager) (select models only) HP CCM automates the management of software such as operating systems, programs, software updates, and content and configuration settings to ensure that each computer is maintained in the correct configuration. With these automated management solutions, you can manage software throughout the life cycle of the computer.
Using Intel Active Management Technology (select models only) Intel® Active Management Technology (iAMT) allows discovery, repair, and protection of networked computing assets. With iAMT, computers can be managed whether they are on or off. The iAMT solution is available on computers with Intel Centrino® with vPro mobile technology.
Enabling the iAMT solution To configure iAMT settings: NOTE: The ctrl+p prompt is visible only if the AMT Setup Prompt option is enabled in Computer Setup. 1. Turn on or restart the computer. 2. Before Windows starts up, press ctrl+p. NOTE: If you do not press ctrl+p at the appropriate time, you must repeat steps 1 and 2 to access the MEBx setup utility. 3. Enter the ME password. The factory setting for the password is admin. The MEBx setup utility opens. Use the arrow keys to navigate. 4.
Select To do this Password Policy Set options to control requirements for the network password and the MEBx password. Secure Firmware Update Disable/enable or disable updating firmware remotely. Set PRTC Set the real-time clock. Idle Timeout Set a time-out value. Change Intel ME Password Select To do this Change ME Password Change the password. NOTE: 88 Chapter 11 Management The default password is admin.
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 42 1394 devices connecting 42 defined 41 removing 42 16-bit PC Cards 34 32-bit PC Cards 34 A AC adapter, testing 32 administrator password 56 airport security devices 47 Altiris Deployment Solutions 82 antivirus software 63 audio functions, checking 16 Automatic DriveLock password entering 61 removing 61 B battery conserving power 29 discharging 28 displaying remaining charge 28 disposing 30 low battery levels 28 replacing 30 storing 30 Battery Check 28 battery
ExpressCard configuring 37 defined 37 inserting 38 removing 39 removing insert 38 external AC power, using 30 external devices 44 external drive 44 external monitor port 19 F finding more information fingerprint reader 68 firewall software 6, 64 1 G GPS 8 graphics modes, switching 32 H hard drive external 44 HP 3D DriveGuard 49 HDMI configuring audio 20 HDMI port, connecting 20 Hibernation exiting 23 initiated during critical battery level 29 initiating 23 high-definition devices, connecting 20, 21 hotk
setting password protection on wakeup 25 setting power options 23 setup of WLAN 6 setup utility navigating and selecting 73 restoring factory settings 74 sharing optical drives 54 shutdown 22 SIM inserting 7 removing 8 Sleep exiting 23 initiating 23 slot-load optical drive 51 smart card defined 39 inserting 40 removing 40 SoftPaqs, downloading 72 software antivirus 63 critical updates 65 deployment 82 Disk Cleanup 48 Disk Defragmenter 48 firewall 64 HP Connection Manager 4 recovery 82 updates 83 storing a b
