Getting Started - Windows 7

8 Getting Started
What’s Next?
Updated versions of the software provided with your computer are available either through
the HP Support Assistant utility or on the HP Web site.
The HP Support Assistant utility automatically checks for software updates from HP. The
utility runs at a specified internal and provides a list of support alerts, such as security
enhancements, and optional software and driver updates.
You can manually check for updates at any time. Click Start, click Help and Support, and
then click Maintain. Follow the on-screen instructions.
Most software on the HP Web site is packaged in compressed files called SoftPaqs. Some
BIOS updates may be packaged in compressed files called ROMPaqs.
Some download packages contain a file named Readme.txt, which contains information
about installing and troubleshooting the file. (Readme.txt files included with ROMPaqs are
provided in English only.)
To update the software using the HP Web site, follow these steps:
1. Identify your computer model, product category, and series or family. Prepare for a
system BIOS update by identifying the BIOS version currently installed on the
computer. For details, refer to the “Determining the BIOS version” section.
If you connect your computer to a network, consult the network administrator before
installing any software updates, especially system BIOS updates.
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The computer system BIOS is stored on the system ROM. The BIOS initializes
the operating system, determines how the computer interacts with the hardware
devices, and provides for data transfer among hardware devices, including the
time and date.
2. Open your Web browser, and go to http://www.hp.com/support.
3. Select your country or region.
4. Click the option for software and driver downloads, and then type your computer model
number in the product box.
5. Press enter.
6. Follow the on-screen instructions.
To update the BIOS, first determine what BIOS version you currently have, and then
download and install the new BIOS.
Determining the BIOS version
BIOS version information (also known as ROM date and ROM Revision) can be displayed by
using Computer Setup:
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.
Updating software
Updating the BIOS