HP (Hewlett-Packard) A6X73UAR#ABA manual

User Guide HP Notebook[...]

© Copyright 2011 Hewlett-Packa rd Development Company, L.P. Bluetooth is a trademark owned by its proprietor and used by Hewlett-Packard Company under license. AMD is a trademark of Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. Intel is a trademark of Intel Corpora tion in the U.S. and other countries. Microsoft and Windows are U.S. registered tr ademarks of Micro[...]

Safety warning notice WARNING! To reduce the possibility of heat-related inju ries or of ove rheating th e computer, do not place the compu ter directly on your lap or o bstruct the computer air ven ts. Use the computer only on a hard, flat surface. Do n ot allow another hard surface, such as an adjoinin g optional printer, or a soft surface, such [...]

iv Safety warning no tice[...]

Table of contents 1 Introduction ............ ......... ......... ........... .......... ........ ............ ......... ......... ............ ........ .. ................. .......... .......... . 1 Important first steps .............. .......... .......... .......... .......... ............ .......... .......... ........... ........ ......... ...[...]

Configuring a wireless router .......... .......... ............. .......... ............. .......... .......... 22 Protecting your WLAN .......... ............. ........... .......... .............. .......... .......... ......... 22 Roaming to anothe r networ k ....... ............. .............. .......... .............. ............. ...... 23[...]

Shutting down the computer ....... ............ ................ ............ ............... ............ ............. ............. ......... .. 41 Setting power options .......... ......... .......... ............. ......... .......... ........... ............ .......... .......... . ................ 41 Using power-saving states ......... .....[...]

Connecting a USB device .......... .......... ........... ......... ......... ........... ......... ......... ........... ......... 55 Removing a USB device .............. ......... .......... .......... ......... ........... ......... ......... ............ ....... 55 Using optional external devices ......... ........... .............. ...........[...]

Installing software updates ............. ............. ......... .......... .......... ............ .......... .......... ......... ... ............ .. 79 Installing Windows security up dates ........... ............ .......................... ............ ............ ......... 79 Install ing HP and third- party s oftwar e updates ...............[...]

The co mputer is unusu ally warm . ..................... ............ ............ ..................... ............ ........ 95 An ext ernal de vice is not working .. ................ ............................. ................ ....................... 95 The wireless network connection is not working ... ............ .......... .............. [...]

1I n t r o d u c t i o n This guide contain s details about yo ur computer's compo nents, such as ports and jacks. It describes multimedia and other features. And it provides im portant security, backu p, and recovery information. NOTE: Some of the fe atures describe d in this guide may not be available on your computer. Important first steps [...]

Finding information The computer comes with several resour ces to help you perform various tasks. Resource Contents Setup Instructions ● How to set up the computer ● Identification of computer components User Guide To access this guide: Select Start > Help and Support > User Guides . ● Computer features ● Power management feature s ?[...]

Resource Contents HP Web site To access this Web site, go to http://www.hp.com/ support . ● Customer support information ● Information for ordering parts ● Software, driver, and BIOS updates ● Information about accessories fo r the computer Limited Warranty * To access the warranty: Select Start > Help and Support > User Guides . – [...]

2 Getting to know your computer Top TouchPad Component Description (1) TouchPad light ● On: The TouchPad is off. ● Off: The TouchPad is on. (2) TouchPad on/off button Turns the TouchPad on or off. (3) TouchPad zone Moves the pointer and selects or activa tes items on the screen. (4) Left TouchPad button Functions like the left button on an e xt[...]

Lights Component Description (1) Power light ● White: The computer is o n. ● Blinking white: The computer is in the Sleep state. ● Off: The computer is off or in Hibernation. (2) Mute light ● Amber: Computer sound is off. ● Off: Computer sound is on. (3) Wireless light ● White: An integrated wireless device, such as a wireless local are[...]

Buttons and fingerprint reader Component Description (1) 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[...]

Component Description (2) QuickWeb button Opens QuickW eb (select models only) . ● When the computer is off or in Hibernation, press the button to open HP QuickWeb. ● When the computer is in Microsoft Windows, press the button to open the default Web browse r. ● When the computer is in HP QuickWeb, press the button to open the Web browser. Qu[...]

Keys Component Description (1) esc key Displays system informatio n when pressed in combination with the fn key. (2) fn key Executes frequently used system functions when pressed in combination with the b key or the esc key. (3) Windows logo key Displays the Windows Start menu. (4) b key Enables or disables the Beats Audio bass settings (select mod[...]

Front Component Description (1) Digital Media Slot Supports the following digital card formats: ● Secure Digital (SD) Memory Card ● Secure Digital Extended Capacity (SDxC) Memory Card ● Secure Digital High Capacity (SDHC) Memo ry Card ● Ultra High Speed MultiMediaCard (UHS/MMC) (2) Speakers (2) Produce sound. Front 9[...]

Right side Component Description (1) Optical drive Reads and writes (sel ect models only) to an optical disc. (2) Optical drive eject button Ejects the optical disc. (3) Audio-out (headphone) ja ck/audio-in (microphone) jack Connects optional powered stereo speakers, headphones, earbuds, a headset, or television audio. Also connects an optional hea[...]

Left side Component Description (1) Security cable slot Attaches an opti onal security cable to the computer. NOTE: The security cable is designed to act as a deterrent, but it may not prevent the computer from being mishandled or stolen. (2) Vents Enable airflow to cool internal components. NOTE: The computer fan starts up automatically to cool in[...]

Display Component Description (1) WLAN antennas (2)* 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 still photographs. To use the webcam, select Start > All Programs > Communi[...]

Bottom Component Description (1) HP Triple Bass Reflex Subwoofers Provide superior bass sound (2) Battery bay Holds the battery. (3) Vents (3) 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 ro[...]

Labels The labels affixed to the computer provid e inform ation you may need wh en you troubleshoot system problems or travel internationa lly with the computer: ● Serial number label—Provides importa n t information, incl uding the following : Component (1) Product name (2) Serial number (3) Product part n umber (4) Warranty period (5) Model d[...]

3 HP QuickWeb Getting started The HP QuickWeb en vironment provides a fun and engaging way to perform many o f your favorite activities. Your computer is ready to go within seconds of starti ng QuickWeb , allowing you to rapi dly access the Internet, widgets, and communication programs. To use QuickWeb, press the QuickWeb button, and t hen start br[...]

Starting HP QuickWeb ▲ To start HP QuickW eb, press the Qu ickWeb button when the computer is off or in Hibernation. The following tab le explains the differ ent be haviors of the QuickWeb button. Button Behavior QuickWeb button ● When the computer is off or in Hibernation, press the button to open HP QuickWeb. ● When the computer is in Micro[...]

4N e t w o r k i n g Your computer supp orts two type s of Internet acc ess: ● Wireless —Refer to Creating a wireless connection on pag e 19 . ● Wired —Refer to Connecting to a wi red network on page 24 . NOTE: You must set up In ternet service befo re you can connect to the Internet. 17[...]

Using an Internet service provider Before you can connect to the In ternet, you must establish an account with an Intern et service provider (ISP). To pu rchase Internet se rvice and a modem, contact a local I SP. The ISP will help set up the mod em, install a network cable to connect yo ur wireless computer to the modem, and test the Internet serv[...]

Creating a wireless connection Your computer may be equipped with one or more of the following wireless devices: ● Wireless local area network (WLAN) d evice ● Bluetooth® device For more information on wireless technology, refer to the in formation and Web site links provided in Help and Support. Identifying wireless and network status icons I[...]

Turning wireless devices on or off You can use the wirel ess key or HP Connection Mana ger (select models only) to turn on and turn off wireless devices. Refer to Using the action keys on page 30 for information on identifyin g the location of the wire less key on your computer. To turn off wireless devices usi ng HP Connection Manager: ▲ Right-c[...]

Connecting to an existing WLAN To connect to an existing WLAN: 1. Be sure that th e WLAN device is on. (Refer to Turning wireless devices on or off on page 20 .) 2. Click the network icon in the notificat ion area, at the far right of the taskb ar. 3. Select yo ur WLAN fro m the list. 4. Click Connect . If the network is a security-enable d WLAN, y[...]

Configuring a wireless router For help in setting up a WLAN, refer to the informat ion provided by your ro uter manufacture r or your ISP. The Windows operating system also provides tools to help you set up a new wireless network. To use the Windows tools to set up your network, select Start > Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network[...]

Roaming to another network When you move your computer within range of an othe r WLAN, Windows atte mpts to connect to that network. If the atte mpt is successful, your computer is automatically co nnected to the new network. If Windows does not recognize th e new network, fo llow the same procedure you u sed initially to connect to your WL AN. Usi[...]

Connecting to a wired network Connecting to a local area network (LAN) Connecting to a loc al area networ k (LAN) requ ires an 8-pin, RJ-45 network cable (purchased separately). If the network cabl e contains noise suppression circuitry (1) , which prevents interference from TV and radio re ception, orient the circuitry end of the cable (2 ) toward[...]

5 Pointing devices and keyboard Using pointing devices NOTE: In addition to the pointing devices included with your computer, you can use an external USB mouse (purchased sep a rately) by connecting it to one of the USB ports on the computer . Setting pointing device preferences Use Mouse Properties in Win dows® to customize po inting device setti[...]

Turning the TouchPad off or on To turn the Touc hPad off or on, quickly double-tap the TouchPad on/off button. NOTE: The TouchPad light is o f f when the TouchPad is on. The TouchPad light and onscreen displa y icons indi cate the TouchPad status when the TouchPad is turned off or o n. The following table shows and de scribes the Touch Pad display [...]

Navigating To move the pointer, slid e one finger across the Touc hPad in the direction you want the pointer to go. Selecting Use the left and right Touch Pad buttons as you w ould use the correspon ding buttons on an external mouse. Using pointing devices 27[...]

Using TouchPad gestures The TouchPad sup ports a variety of gestures. To use TouchPad gestures, place two fin gers on the TouchPad at the same time. NOTE: TouchPad gestures are n ot supported in all prog rams. To view the demo nstration of a gesture: 1. Select Start > Control Panel > Hardwa re and Soun d > Synaptics T ouchPad . 2. Click a [...]

Scrolling Scrolling is useful for movi ng up, down, or sideways on a page or image. To scroll, place two fingers slightly apart on the TouchPa d, an d then drag them acro ss the TouchPad in an up, d own, left, or right motion. NOTE: Scrolling speed is co ntrolled by finger speed. NOTE: Two-finger scrolling is enabl ed at the factory. Pinching/Zoomi[...]

Using the keyboard Using the action keys An action key performs an assigned function. The icon on each of the f1 through f4 keys and f6 through f12 keys illustrates the assign ed function for that key. To use an actio n key function, press and hold the key. The action key feature is enabled at the factory. You can disable th is feature in Setup Uti[...]

Icon Key Descriptio n f9 Decreases speaker volume incrementally as long as you hold down the key. f10 Increases speaker volume incrementally as lon g as you hold down the key. f11 Mutes or restores speaker sound. f12 Turns the wireless feature on or off. NOTE: A wireless network must be set up before a wireless conne ction is possible. Using the ke[...]

Using the hotkeys A hotkey is a combination of the fn key (1) , and either th e esc key (2) or th e b key (3) . To use a hot key: ▲ Briefly press the fn key, and then briefly press the se cond key of the hotkey combination. Function Hotkey Description Display system information. fn + esc Displays information about system hardware components and t[...]

6 Multimedia and other features Your computer includes the fo llowing: ● Two integrated speake rs a nd two subwoofers ● Two integrated microphones ● Integrated web cam ● Preinstalled multimedia software ● Multimedia keys Using the media activity controls Your computer has media action keys that allow you to play, pause, fast forward, or r[...]

Adjusting the volume You can adjust the volume using the volume keys. Refer to Using the action keys on page 30 for more inform ation. WARNING! To reduce the risk of personal inju ry, adjust the volume before putting on headphones, earbuds, or a headset. For ad ditional safety information, refer to the Regulatory, Safety and Environmental Notices .[...]

Intel Wireless Display Intel® Wireless Display allows you to share your computer conten t wirelessly on your TV. To experience wireless display, a wi reless third-party TV adapter (pur ch ased separa tely) is req uired. Content that asserts output protection, such as Blu-ray discs , will not play on Intel Wireless Display. For details abou t using[...]

Webcam Your computer includes an in tegrat ed webcam, located at the top of the display. With the preinstalled software, you can use the webcam to take a photo or record a video. You ca n preview and save the photo or vi deo recording. The webcam software enable s you to ex periment with the following features: ● Capturing and sharing vide o ● [...]

HDMI The HDMI (High Definition Mu ltimedia Interfa c e) po rt connects the computer to an optional video or audio device, such as a hi gh-definition television, or to any comp atible digital or audi o component. NOTE: To transmit video and/or audio signals through th e HDMI port, you need an HDMI cable (purchased separa tely). One HDMI device ca n [...]

Using CyberLink PowerDVD (select models only) CyberLink PowerDVD turns your computer into a mobile entertainment center. With Cyb erLink PowerDVD, you ca n enjoy music CDs and DVD and Blu-ray Disc (BD) movies. You can also manage and edit your photo colle ctions. ▲ To start CyberLink PowerDVD, select Start > All Programs > Music, Photo s an[...]

7 Power management Inserting or removing the battery NOTE: For additional information on using the battery, refer to Using battery power on page 45 . Inserting the battery 1. Turn the computer upside do wn on a flat surface, with the battery b ay toward you. 2. Align the battery (1) with the outer edge of the battery b ay, and then rota te the batt[...]

Removing the battery CAUTION: Removing a battery that is the sole po wer source for the computer can cause loss of information. To prevent loss of info rmation, save your work and init iate Hibernation or shu t down the computer through Wind ows before removing the battery. 1. Turn the computer upsid e down on a flat surface. 2. Slide the battery r[...]

Shutting down the computer CAUTION: Unsaved inf ormation is lost wh en the computer sh uts down. The Shut down command closes all open programs , including the operatin g system, and then turns off the display an d computer. Shut down the co mputer under any of the following cond itions: ● When you need to replace the battery or access componen t[...]

Initiating and exiting Sleep The system is set at the factory to initiate Sleep after a period of inact ivity when ru nning on battery power or on extern al power. Power settings a nd timeouts can be changed us ing Power Options in Windows® Control Pa nel. With the computer on, you can initiate Sleep in an y of the followin g ways: ● Briefly pre[...]

Using the power meter The power meter i s located in the notification a rea , at the far right of the taskbar. The power me ter allows you to quickly acce ss power settings and view the remaining battery charge. ● To display the perce ntage of remaining battery cha rge and the current power plan, move the pointer over the p ower meter icon. ● T[...]

Setting password protection on wakeup To set the computer to prompt for a p assword when the comp uter exits Sleep or Hibernation, follow these steps: 1. Select Start > Control Panel > System and Security > Power Options . 2. In the left pane, click Requir e a password on wak eup . 3. Click Change Settings that are currently u navailable .[...]

Using battery power When a charged battery is i n the computer and the computer i s not plugged in to external power, th e computer runs on batte ry power. When the comp uter is plugged into externa l AC power, the computer runs on AC power. If the computer conta ins a charged battery and i s running on external AC power, the computer switches to b[...]

Displaying the remaining battery charge ▲ Move the pointer over the power meter icon in the notification area, at the far right o f the taskbar. Maximizing battery discharge time Battery discharge time varies depending on the fe atures you use while on battery p ower. Maximum discharge time gradually decreases as the ba ttery storage capacity nat[...]

Resolving a low battery level Resolving a low b attery level when exte rnal power is a vailable ▲ Connect one o f the following devices: ● AC adapter ● Optional docking o r expansion device ● Optional power adap ter purchased as a n accessory from HP Resolving a low b attery level when a c harged battery is available 1. Turn off the compu t[...]

Conserving battery power ● Select low power-use settings through Power Options in Windows Cont rol Panel. ● Turn off wireless and local area network (LAN) connections and exit mo dem applicati ons when you are not using the m. ● Disconnec t unused ext ernal devices t hat are not plugged into an ex ternal power source. ● Stop, disable, or re[...]

Using external AC power NOTE: For informa tion on connect ing to AC powe r, refer to the Setup Instructions poster provid ed in the computer box. External AC power is supplied through an approved AC adapter or an optional docking or expansio n device. WARNING! To reduce potential safety issues, use only the AC adapter provid ed with the compute r, [...]

Testing an AC adapter Test the AC adapter if the com put er exhibits any of th e following symptoms when it is connected to AC power: ● The computer does not turn on. ● The display does n ot turn on. ● The power lights are off. To test th e AC adapter: 1. Shut down the computer. 2. Remove the batt ery from the comput er. 3. Connect the AC ada[...]

Switchable graphics/dual gr aphics (select models only) Select computers are equipp ed with eith er switchable graphics or dual graphics. ● Switchable graphics—Supporte d by both AMD and Intel. If your computer has switchable graphics, it offers both fixed and dynamic schemes. ● Dual graphics— Supported only by AMD. If your computer has AMD[...]

Using dual graphics (select models only) If your system is equipped with dual graphics (two or more added Graphics Processing Units (GPUs)), you can enable AMD Crossfire™ to increase application power and performance for fullscreen applica tions that use DirectX ve rsion 10 or 11. For more informatio n about DirectX, refer to http://www.micros of[...]

8 External cards and devices Using Digital Media Slot cards (select models only) Optional digita l cards provide secure da ta storag e and convenient data sha r ing. These cards are often used with digital med ia–equipped camera s and PDAs as well as with o ther computers. To determine the digital ca rd formats that are supported o n your compute[...]

Removing a digital card CAUTION: To reduce the risk of loss of data or an unresponsiv e system, use the following procedure to safely re move the digital card. 1. Save your information and close all prog rams associated with the digital card . 2. Click the remove ha rdware icon in the notif ication area , at the far righ t of the taskbar . Then fol[...]

Connecting a USB device CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to a USB conn ector, use minimal force to connect the device. ▲ Connect the USB cab le for the device to the USB po rt. NOTE: The USB port on your computer may look slig htly different fro m the illustrat ion in this section. You will hear a sound when the de vice has been detected. NO[...]

Using optional external devices NOTE: For more information about req uired software and d r ivers, or to learn which computer port to use, refer to the manufacturer' s instructions. To connect an external device to the computer: CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to the equipment when connecting a powered d evice, be sure that the device is[...]

9D r i v e s Handling drives CAUTION: Drives are fragile computer comp onents that must be handle d with care. Re fer to the following caut ions before hand ling drives. Additional caut ions are inclu ded with the proce dures to which they apply. Observe these precautions: ● Before you move a computer that is connected to an external hard drive, [...]

Using hard drives Improving hard drive performance Using Disk Defragmenter As you use the compute r, files on th e hard drive become fra gmented. Disk Def ragmenter 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 Defragmente r on solid-state drives. A[...]

Using HP 3D DriveGuard (select mode ls only) HP 3D DriveGuard protects a hard drive by parking the drive and halting data requests unde r either of the following conditi ons: ● You drop the compu t er. ● You move the compute r with the display cl osed while the computer is running on battery power. A short time a fter the end of one of these ev[...]

Managing power with a parked hard drive If HP 3D DriveGuard has parked the drive, the computer behaves in the following ways: ● The computer will not shut down. ● The computer will not initiate Sl eep or Hibernatio n, except as descri bed in the following Note. NOTE: If the computer is ru nning on battery p ower and reac hes a critical batt ery[...]

Adding or replacing a hard drive CAUTION: To prevent information loss or an unresponsive system: Shut down the computer before removing the hard drive from the hard drive bay. Do no t remove the hard drive while the computer is on, in th e Sleep state, or in Hibern ation. If you are not sure wh ether the compu ter is off or in Hibernation, turn the[...]

9. Remove the hard drive service door (2) . 10. Remove the 3 screws securi ng the hard drive (1) , and then pull the hard drive tab (2) to lift the hard drive out of the hard drive bay. 11. Disconnec t the hard drive ca ble (3) , and remove the hard drive. 62 Chapter 9 Drives[...]

Installing a hard drive 1. Connect the hard d rive cable to the hard drive (1) , and then insert the hard dr ive into the hard drive bay (2) . 2. Tighten the 3 hard drive screw s to secure the dr ive (3) . 3. Align the tabs (1) on the hard drive serv ice door with the no tches on the computer. 4. Close the hard drive service door (2) . Adding or re[...]

5. Tighten the screw (3) on the hard drive service door. 6. Align the tabs (1) o n the memory module co mpartment c over with the notc hes on the computer. 7. Slide the cover forward (2) . 8. Tighten the screw (3) on the memory modul e compartment cover. 9. Replace the battery. 10. Reconnect external powe r and external devices. 11. Turn on the com[...]

Using optical drives Optical drives include the following: ● CD ● DVD ● Blu-ray (BD) Identifying the installed optical drive ▲ Select Start > Computer . A list of all drives in stalled in you r computer, i ncluding your optical drive, is displayed. Inserting an optical disc 1. Turn on th e compute r. 2. Press the rel ease button (1) on t[...]

Removing an optical disc There are 2 ways to remove a disc, depending on whether the disc tray opens normally or not. When the disc tray opens normally 1. Press the rel ease button (1) on the d rive bezel to rele ase the disc tray, a nd then gently pu ll out the tray (2) un til it stops . 2. Remove the disc (3) from the tray by ge ntly pressing dow[...]

When the disc tray fails to open normally 1. Insert the end of a paper clip (1) into the release access in the front beze l of the drive. 2. Press in ge ntly on the paper clip un til the tray is released, and then pull out the tr ay (2) until it stops. 3. Remove the disc (3) from the tray by ge ntly pressing dow n on the spindle while lifting the o[...]

Sharing optical drives Although your computer may not have an integrated optical drive, you can access software and data, and install applicatio ns, by sharing an opti cal driv e connected to anothe r 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 oth er [...]

10 Memory modules Adding or replacing memory modules The computer ha s two memory module slo ts. Th e capa city of the computer can be upgraded by adding a memory mo dule to the vacant expansion me mory module slot or by upgrading th e existing memory module in the prim ary memory module slot. WARNING! To reduce the risk of electric shock and damag[...]

5. Slide the cover backward s (2), and then remo ve the cover (3) . 6. If you are replacing a memory module, remove the existing memory module: a. Pull away the retention clips (1) on each side of the memory module. The memory module tilts up. 70 Chapter 10 Me mory modules[...]

b. Grasp th e edge of th e memory module (2) , and then ge ntly pull the memory module out of the memory module slot. CAUTION: To prevent damage to the memory module, hold the memory module by the edges only. Do not touch th e components on the memory modul e. To protect a memory modu le after removal, place it in an electrostatic-saf e container. [...]

c. Gently press the memory mo dule (3) down, applying pressure to both the left an d right edges of the mod ule, until the rete ntion clips snap into pla ce. CAUTION: To prevent damage to the memory module, be sure that you do not bend th e module. 8. Align the tabs (1) o n the memory module co mpartment c over with the notc hes on the computer. 9.[...]

11. Replace the battery. 12. Reconnect external powe r and external devices. 13. Turn on the computer. Adding or replacing me mory modules 73[...]

11 Securing your computer and information Computer security is essential for protectin g the confiden tiality, integrity, and avail ability of your information. Standard security solutions provided by the Windows® operating system, H P applications, the non–Windo ws Setup Utility (B IOS), and other th ird-party software can help protect your com[...]

Locating your security soft ware (select models only) HP Security Assistant provides a starting locati on for you to quickly access a collection of security software application s that are organized b y task. In stead of searchi ng for each ap plication through the Start menu and Control Panel, HP Security Assist ant allows you to access the applic[...]

Setting Windows passwords Password Function User password Protects access to a Windows user account. It also must be entered when you exit Sleep or Hibernation. Administrator password Protects administrat or-level access to computer contents. NOTE: This password cannot be used to access Setup Utility (BIOS) contents. Setting passwords in Setup Util[...]

Using the fingerprint reader Integrated finge rprint readers are availab le on select computer mo dels. In orde r to use the fingerpr int reader, you mus t set up a user accoun t and password on the computer. T his account allows you to log on to your computer with a swipe of a designa ted finger. You may also use th e fingerprint read er to fill i[...]

Using Internet security software When you use your computer to access email, a ne twork, or the Internet, you potentially expose your computer to computer viruses, sp yware, and other online threats. To he lp protect your computer, Internet security softwar e that includes antivirus and firewall feature s may be preinstalled on your computer as a t[...]

Installing software updates HP, Microsoft Windows, an d third-party software in stalled on your compute r should be regularly updated to correct security prob lems and improve softwa re performance. Installing Windows security updates Updates to the operating system and other software may have become ava ilable after the c omputer left the factory.[...]

Backing up your software ap plications and information Regularly back up your software ap plications and informatio n to protect them from being pe rmanently lost or damaged through a virus attack o r a software or hardware fa ilure. For more info rmation, see “Backup and recovery.” Using an optional security cable lock A security cable lock, w[...]

12 Backup and recovery Your computer includes t ools provided by the operating system and HP to help you safeguard your information and restore it if ever needed. This chapter provide s information on th e following topics: ● Creating a set of recovery discs or a recove ry flash drive (HP Recovery Manag er software feature) ● Performing a syste[...]

Restoring the system If the computer hard drive fails, you must use a se t of recovery discs or a recovery flash drive to restore your system to its factory image. Ideally , you have already used HP Recovery Manager t o create these tools immediat ely after software setup. For issues other than hard drive f ailure, you can restore your syst em by u[...]

Performing a system recovery HP Recovery Manager software a llows you to repair or re store the computer to its original factory state. HP Recovery Manager works from recovery di scs, a reco very flash drive, or from a dedicated recovery partition on the hard drive. NOTE: A system restore must be performed if the comp ut er hard drive fails or if a[...]

Restoring using the restor e media 1. If possible, bac k up all personal files. 2. Insert the first recovery disc into the optical drive on your computer or an optional external optical drive, and then restart the computer. – or – Insert th e recovery flash d rive into a USB por t on your computer, an d then restart t he computer. NOTE: If the [...]

Backing up and recovering your information It is very important to back up your files and keep any new software in a safe place. As you add new software and data files, continue to create backups on a regular b a sis. How completely you are able to recover your system depends on how recent your backup is. NOTE: A recovery from yo ur most recent bac[...]

Using Windows Backup and Restore Guidelines: ● Be sure that the computer is co nnected to AC power before you start the backu p process. ● Allow enough time to complete the backup process. Depe nding on file sizes, it may take over an hour. To create a backup : 1. Select Start > Control Panel > System and Security > Backup and Restore [...]

Create a system restore point 1. Select Start > Control Panel > System and Security > System . 2. In the left pane, click System Protection . 3. Click the System Protection tab. 4. Click Create , and then follow the on-scre en instructions. Restore to a previous date and time To revert to a restore poi nt (creat ed at a previous date and t[...]

13 Setup Utility (BIOS) and System Diagnostics Using Setup Utility (BIOS) Setup Utility, or Basic In put/Output System (BIOS), controls co mmunication between all the input and output devices on the system (such as disk drives , display, keyboard, mous e, and printer). Setup Utility (BIOS) includes settings for the types of devices installed, the s[...]

Navigating and selecting in Setup Utility (BIOS) To navigate and select in Setup Utility (BIOS), follow these steps: 1. Turn on or restart the compu ter, and then press esc while the “Press the ESC key for Startup Menu” message is displayed at the bottom of th e screen. ● To select a menu or a menu item, use the tab key a nd the keyboa rd arr[...]

Restoring factory settings in Setup Utility (BIOS) NOTE: Restoring defaults will not change the hard drive mode. To return all settings in Setup Ut ility (BIOS) to the values that were set at the factory, follow these steps: 1. Turn on or restart the compu ter, and then press esc while the “Press the ESC key for Startup Menu” message is display[...]

Updating the BIOS Updated versions of the BIOS may be available on the HP Web site . Most BIOS update s on the HP Web site are packaged in compressed files called Soft Paqs . Some download packa ges contain a file n amed Read me.txt, which contains information regarding installing and troubleshooting the file. Determining the BIOS version To determ[...]

Downloading a BIOS update CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to the computer or an unsuccessful installation, downlo ad and install a BIOS update only when the computer is connected to reli able external power u s ing the AC adapter. Do not d o wnload or install a BIO S up date while the computer is runn ing on battery power, docked in an option[...]

Using System Diagnostics System Diag nostics allows you to run dia gnostic te sts to determine if the computer hardwa re is functioning pro perly. Depen ding on your computer, the following diagn o stic tests may be availab le in System Diagnostics: ● Start-up test—This test analyzes the main computer compo nents that are required to start the [...]

A Troubleshooting and support Troubleshooting The computer is unable to start up If the computer does not turn on when you press the power button, the followi ng suggestions may help you determine why the co mputer will not start up: ● If the computer is plugge d into an AC outlet, p lug another electr ical device into the outlet to be sure that [...]

The computer is on but not responding If the computer is on but is not responding to software or keyboard commands, try the following emergency shutdown procedu res in the sequence provided: CAUTION: Emergency shutdown procedures result in the loss of unsaved inform ation. ● Press ctrl + alt + delet e , and then click the Power button. ● Press [...]

The wireless network conn ection is not working If a wireless network co nnection is not workin g as expected, follow these sugg estions: ● Be sure that the wire less light on your computer is on (white). If the wireless ligh t is off, press the f12 action ke y to turn it on. ● Be sure that the device wireless a ntennas are free from obstructio[...]

The optical disc tray does not open for removal of a disc 1. Insert the end of a paper clip into the rele as e access in the fr ont bezel of the drive (1) . 2. Press in gently on the paper clip until the disc tray is released, and the n pull out the tray un til it stops (2) . 3. Remove the disc fro m the tray by gently pressing down on the spi ndle[...]

The computer does not detect the disc drive If Windows does not detect an installed d evice, the device driver softwa re might be mi ssing or corrupted. If yo u suspect that t he op tical drive is not being d etected, verify th at the optical drive is listed in the De vice Manager utility by: 1. Removing any discs from the optical drive. 2. Selecti[...]

A disc does not play To play a CD, DVD, or BD: ● Save your work and close all op en programs before playing a disc. ● Log off the Internet before pla y ing a disc. ● Be sure that you inse rt the disc properly. ● Be sure that the disc is clean. If necessary, clean the disc with f iltered wa ter and a lint-free clot h. Wipe from th e center o[...]

The process of burning a disc does not begin, or it stops before completion ● Be sure that all ot her programs ar e closed. ● Disable Sleep and Hibern ation. ● Be sure that you are using the right kind of disc for your drive . ● Be sure that the disc is inserted properly. ● Select a slower write speed and try again. ● If copying a disc,[...]

B Cleaning your computer Cleaning the display Gently wipe the display us ing a soft, lint-free cl oth moistened with an alcohol-free glass cleaner. Be sure that the display i s dry before closing th e display. Cleaning the sides and cover To clean and d isinfect the sides and cover, use a soft microfiber cloth or a static-free cloth without oil (su[...]

C Traveling with the computer For best results, follo w these traveling and shipping tips : ● Prepare the comput er for traveling or shipping: ◦ Back up your information. ◦ Remove all discs and all external me dia cards, such as digital cards. CAUTION: To reduce the risk of da mage to the computer, d amage to a drive, or lo ss of information,[...]

hazardous locations. If you ar e uncertain of th e policy that applie s to the use of a pa rticular device, ask for authorization to use i t before you turn it on. ● If you are trave ling internationa lly, follow these sugg estions: ◦ Check the computer-related customs re gulations for ea ch country or region on your itinerary. ◦ Check the po[...]

D Updating programs and drivers HP recommends that you up date your programs and drivers on a regular basis to the latest versions. Go to http://www.hp. com/ support to download the latest versions. You can also register to receive automatic update notification s when they become available. 104 Appendix D Upda ting programs and drivers[...]

E Electrostatic Discharge Electrostatic discharge is the rele ase of static electricity when tw o objects come into contact—for example, the sho ck you receive wh en you walk across th e carpet and touc h a metal door knob . A discharge of static ele ctricity from fingers or other electrostati c conductors may damage electronic components. To p r[...]

F Specifications Input power The power information in this section may be helpfu l if you plan to travel internationally with the computer. The computer op erates 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 [...]

Operating environment Factor Metric U.S. Temperature Operating 5°C to 35°C 41°F to 95°F Nonoperating -20°C to 60°C -4°F to 140°F Relative humidity (noncondensing) Operating 10% to 90% 10% to 90% Nonoperating 5% to 95% 5% to 95% Maximum alti tude (unpr essurized) Operating -15 m to 3,048 m -50 ft to 10,000 ft Nonoperating -15 m to 12,192 m -[...]

Index A AC adapter, testing 50 action keys decrease screen brightness 30 Help and Suppo rt 30 identifying 8 increase screen brightness 30 keyboard backlight 30 next track or section 30 play, pause, resume 30 previous track or section 30 switch screen image 30 volume 34 volume down 31 volume mute 31 volume up 31 wireless 31 airport security devices [...]

E electrostatic d ischarge 105 esc key, identifying 8 existing wireless network, connecting to 21 external AC power, using 4 9 external devices 56 external drive 56 external monitor port 11, 36 F f11 83 fingerprint reader light 5 firewall software 22, 78 fn key, identifying 8, 32 G graphics modes, switching 51 H hard drive external 56 HP 3D DriveGu[...]

optical drive eject bu tton, identifying 10 optical drive, identifying 1 0 optional external devices, using 56 P passwords set in Setup Utility (BIOS) 76 set in Windows 76 pinching TouchPad g esture 29 pointing device s, setting prefere nces 25 ports external monitor 1 1, 36 HDMI 11, 37 USB 10, 11 VGA 36 power battery 45 conserving 48 options 41 po[...]

using power pla ns 43 using power-saving states 41 using system restore 8 6 using the power meter 43 V vents, identifying 11, 13 VGA port, connecting 36 video 36 volume adjusting 34 buttons 34 keys 34 W webcam 36 webcam light, id entifying 12 webcam, identify ing 12 Windows applications key, identifying 8 Windows logo key, identifying 8 Windows, pa[...]