Compaq CQ2100 Getting Started

Getting Started

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Setting Up Your Computer........................................................................... 1

Checking the Computer Installation .............................................................................. 1

Connecting Speakers or Microphone ........................................................................... 4

Connecting to a Network............................................................................................ 7

Connecting a Modem ................................................................................................ 8

Connecting the Television Signal and Video Cables....................................................... 8

Turning On Your Computer for the First Time ............................................. 15

Turning Off the Computer ......................................................................................... 16

Restarting the Computer............................................................................................ 18

Connecting to the Internet ......................................................................................... 18

Adjusting the Speaker Volume................................................................................... 20

Selecting the Microphone ......................................................................................... 21

Protecting Your Computer ......................................................................................... 22

Configuring the Computer for Automatic Microsoft Software Updates............................. 23

Setting Up User Accounts.......................................................................................... 24

Guidelines for Installing Software and Hardware Devices............................................. 25

Transferring Files and Settings from an Old Computer to Your New Computer ................ 26

Special Features of Your Computer............................................................ 27

Using the Memory Card Reader ................................................................................ 27

Using a Vertical CD/DVD Drive................................................................................. 29

Using LightScribe Technology.................................................................................... 30

Using the Remote Control.......................................................................................... 31

HP Easy Backup ...................................................................................................... 32

Peripheral Device Landing Pad and Cable Routing....................................................... 32

Using Software........................................................................................................ 33

Getting More Information ......................................................................... 35

Using the Onscreen Help and Support Center ............................................................. 35

Accessing Support on the Web ................................................................................. 35

Finding Guides on the Web...................................................................................... 35

Finding Onscreen Guides ......................................................................................... 36

Using the PC Help & Tools Folder .............................................................................. 36

Using HP Total Care Advisor Software ....................................................................... 37

Using the Computer with Safety and Comfort.............................................................. 37

Table of Contents iii

Troubleshooting and Maintenance............................................................. 39

Troubleshooting Computer Problems........................................................................... 39

Repairing Software Problems..................................................................................... 57

Maintenance........................................................................................................... 60

System Recovery...................................................................................................... 63

Performing the Post-Recovery Procedure...................................................................... 67

Index........................................................................................................ 69

iv Getting Started (features vary by model)

Setting Up Your Computer

WARNING: The power supply is preset for the country/region in which you purchased your computer. If you move, please check the voltage requirements for your new location before plugging the computer into an AC power outlet.

WARNING: Please read “Safety Information” in the Limited Warranty and Support Guide before installing and connecting the computer to the electrical power system.

Follow the steps on the setup poster to set up the computer:

1 Connect a keyboard and a mouse to the computer. 2 Connect a display (monitor) to the computer.

Your computer may have a graphics card with an HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) connector. If you use it to connect your display (monitor) to the computer, you should also connect analog speakers to the computer if you want to hear sound during the initial setup of the computer.

3 Connect power to the computer. 4 Follow the steps on the setup poster to turn on the computer. See “Turning On Your

Computer for the First Time” on page 15.

Checking the Computer Installation

■ Place the computer in the proper location so that:

■ All ventilation openings are unobstructed.

■ All cabling is out of the way. Do not place any cable in a walkway or where it can

be stepped on or damaged from placing furniture on it.

■ Protect the monitor, computer, and connected accessories by connecting all power cords

to a power surge protection device. Use a power strip specifically labeled as having surge protection, or an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), or similar device.

If the computer has a television tuner, or a modem or telephone connection, protect the computer by using the surge protection with these signal inputs, as well. Connect the television cable or the telephone line cord to the inputs and outputs of the surge protection device and then to the computer.

■ Look in the computer box for printed details or updates regarding the computer.

Setting Up Your Computer 1

Connecting other devices to the computer

(Select models only) Connect the main hardware devices, such as the monitor, keyboard, and mouse, to the back

of the computer. See your setup poster for information on connecting your mouse, keyboard, monitor, and speakers.

Other peripheral devices can plug into connectors on the back of the computer or on the front of the computer (select models only).

NOTE: Do not connect or add other devices to the computer until after you turn on the computer for the first time and complete the initial setup. See “Turning On Your Computer for the First Time” on page 15.

Computer connectors

Some, but not all, connectors that may be on the computer appear in the following tables in this order:

■ Power cord and devices (mouse, keyboard, USB, and so on)

■ Network

■ Modem

■ Display video output (monitor or TV)

For audio and speaker connectors, see “Connecting Speakers or Microphone” on page 4. For television connectors and video input with audio, see “Connecting the Television Signal

and Video Cables” on page 8.

NOTE: The location, availability, and number of connectors on the computer may vary.

Power cord and devices

Icon/Label Description and function

Power connector.

Mouse (PS/2 connector).

2 Getting Started (features vary by model)

Power cord and devices

Network Icon/Label Description and function

Modem Icon/Label Description and function

Icon/Label Description and function (continued)

Keyboard (PS/2 connector).

Universal Serial Bus (USB) 2.0 for mouse, keyboard, digital cameras, or other devices with USB connectors.

ETHERNET Ethernet LAN connector to connect to an Ethernet

(RJ-45) local area network (LAN) hub or any broadband connection. This wired LAN connector is a network interface adapter (also called a network interface card, or NIC). The green LED indicates a valid connection.

Modem (Line In RJ-11) (select models only) to connect the computer modem to a telephone wall jack for dial-up connections to the Internet.

Setting Up Your Computer 3

Display video output

NOTE: For specific information, see the documentation that came with the display device.

Icon/Label Description and function

VGA/Monitor VGA/Monitor (blue) display output connector, to

connect to a VGA monitor. You may need to use a VGA-to-DVI adapter to connect a display with only a DVI connector to the computer.

HDMI HDMI display output connector, to connect to an

HDMI monitor or TV display. You may need to use an HDMI-to-DVI adapter to connect a display with only a DVI connector to the computer.

NOTE: Adjust settings to hear sound through the HDMI connector. See “HDMI-connected display produces no sound.” on page 42.

DVI Digital video output connector (select models only),

to connect to a TV or monitor. You may need to use a VGA-to-DVI or an HDMI-to-DVI adapter to connect the display to the computer.

VGA-DVI VGA-to-DVI adapter, to adapt a TV or a monitor

video cable so it can connect to the computer.

HDMI-DVI HDMI-to-DVI adapter, to adapt a TV or a monitor

video cable so it can connect to the computer.

Connecting Speakers or Microphone

This section describes connecting speakers, headphones, or a microphone to your computer. Speakers are available separately, or may be included with the monitor (select models only). Headphones are available separately.

Your computer model may include audio connectors on the back of the computer. Some computers have connectors on the front of the computer, as well. The connectors are stereo mini-jacks that connect from the computer to active (powered) speakers or speaker systems, to headphones, or to an input device such as a microphone, webcam, or audio player.

Some, but not all, audio connectors that may be on the computer appear in the following table.

NOTE: The location, availability, and number of connectors on the computer may vary.

4 Getting Started (features vary by model)

Audio connectors Icon/Label Description and function

Microphone In (Mic) (pink) to connect a microphone.

May function as a center/subwoofer Line Out in a multichannel audio configuration.

Headphones Out connector (green) to connect headphones.

Audio Line Out (lime green) to connect front left and front right analog speakers.

Audio Line In (blue) connector to connect input to the computer from an analog audio device, such as a CD player.

May function as rear Line Out in a multichannel audio configuration.

Center Line C/Sub (gold) connector to connect Center/

Subwoofer speakers in a multichannel audio configuration.

Rear Line Rear (black) connector to connect rear

speakers in a multichannel audio configuration.

Side Line Side (gray) connector to connect side

speakers in an eight-speaker system (7.1).

Connecting speakers

Speakers are available separately, or included with the monitor. Your computer supports only active (powered) speaker systems; the speaker system must have

its own power source, such as batteries or a separate power cord. For detailed instructions about how to connect and configure other multichannel speakers, go

to the Web support page for your model; see “Accessing Support on the Web” on page 35.

Setting Up Your Computer 5

Connecting a stereo-speaker system

To connect active speakers, such as left/right stereo speakers or a 2.1 system of two speakers and a subwoofer, to the computer:

1 Make sure the computer is turned off. Make sure the speaker system is turned off and

unplugged.

2 Connect the speaker system cable to the lime green Audio Line Out connector that

matches the back of your computer. Or For 2.1 speakers or other multichannel speakers that were shipped with your computer

(select models only), connect the subwoofer to the Audio Line Out connector on the computer, and connect the left and right speakers to the subwoofer.

NOTE: Always turn on the computer before you turn on the speaker system.

Connecting headphones

Headphones are available separately. Your computer comes with a headphones connector (lime green) on the front of the

computer. The headphones connector is labeled with a headphones icon. You can also connect headphones to the Line Out connector (lime green) on the back

of your computer. When headphones are plugged in, the sound to the speakers (and the subwoofer) is

usually muted.

Connecting a microphone

Your computer comes with a microphone connector on the back of the computer. Some models have a second microphone connector on the front of the computer (select models only).

Connect the microphone to the microphone connector on the computer.

To adjust the recording volume or select the microphone, see “Selecting the Microphone” on page 21.

6 Getting Started (features vary by model)

Connecting to a Network

This section describes connecting to a network through a wired or wireless connection.

Setting up a wired Ethernet network connection

The Ethernet connection may be called a network interface adapter, network interface card, or NIC. It provides a high-speed or broadband connection to an Ethernet (10BaseT) or Fast Ethernet (100BaseT) network. After you connect this interface to a network, such as a LAN, you can connect to the Internet through the network.

1 Connect an Ethernet cable to the Ethernet (RJ-45) connector (A) on the back of the

computer, and to the network router or LAN device.

2 With the computer turned on, check the indicator lights (B) next to the Ethernet connector

for the status:

■ ACTIVITY — Lit yellow during network data transfer activity

■ LINK — Lit green when there is a valid network connection

NOTE: Your Ethernet connector may have only one indicator light.

Setting up a wireless network connection

(Select models only) You can connect the computer to a wireless network supporting IEEE 802.11b, 802.11g, or

802.11n (select models only) by using the antenna that is included with the computer. Connect the external antenna to the wireless antenna connector on the network card to increase the range and sensitivity of the wireless radio signal.

NOTE: For the best wireless performance, place the antenna on the computer or in an elevated and open area.

You need an existing wireless LAN with an Internet connection. Consult your Internet Service Provider (ISP) for further information.

To verify that the integrated WLAN device is installed on the computer correctly, see “Checking the wireless LAN device installation” on page 19.

For more information about setting up a wireless network: Click the Windows Vista start

button™ on the taskbar, click Help and Support, and then type Setting up a wireless network into the Search Help box and press Enter.

Setting Up Your Computer 7

Connecting a Modem

(Select models only) The modem connects the computer to the telephone line. Use it to connect to an ISP that

provides a telephone dial-up connection to the Internet. If you use a network connection, you may not need a modem connection.

NOTE: Your computer may not come with a modem. The modem may be a connector on the back of the computer or it may be an external device that plugs into a computer USB connector.

Before you can use telephone dial-up to connect to the Internet and send or receive e-mail and faxes, you must connect your telephone service line to the modem (A).

1 Plug a modem/telephone cable into the computer modem connector (A). Note that the

modem connector on the computer may be green.

2 Plug the other end of the modem/telephone cable into the telephone service line wall

jack connector.

Connecting the Television Signal and Video Cables

(Select models only) This section describes how to connect the computer to a television and which cables to use. Use cables to connect:

■ TV signal source coaxial cable for video/audio in to the computer.

■ TV signal source S-video or composite video in to the computer.

■ TV signal source audio in to the computer.

■ Video out from the computer.

You may need to purchase cables, a coaxial cable signal splitter, or other accessories separately. Your computer may not include all the cables you need for the computer setup.

NOTE: The location and number of connectors on the computer may vary by model.

8 Getting Started (features vary by model)

Video input with audio

Icon/Label Description and function

S-Video S-video In connector to connect video input from a

TV set-top box output connector.

Composite Video

S-Video 2 Secondary S-video connector to connect video input

Composite Video 2

A/V In Audio 1 L

A/V In Audio 1 R

Composite Video In connector (yellow) to connect video input from a TV set-top box.

from a VCR, video camera, or other analog video source to the computer.

Secondary composite video connector (yellow) to connect video input from a VCR, video camera, or other analog source to the computer.

Primary left audio input from a TV set-top box connector (white).

NOTE: You can record audio by using this Audio In connector, which is connected to the motherboard. Some computers include this primary left audio input connector on the front of the computer (select models only).

Primary right audio input from a TV set-top box connector (red).

NOTE: You can record audio by using this Audio In connector, which is connected to the motherboard. Some computers include this primary right audio input connector on the front of the computer (select models only).

Setting Up Your Computer 9

Video input with audio

Icon/Label Description and function (continued)

Television output

Television input

A/V In Audio 2 L

A/V In Audio 2 R

Icon/Label Description and function

Analog Video Analog Video Out: S-video or composite video

Icon/Label Description and function

Secondary left audio input connector (white). NOTE: This Audio In connector is connected to the

TV tuner. You must use the Audio In connector, which is connected to the motherboard and located on the back of the computer, to record audio only (select models only).

Secondary right audio input connector (red). NOTE: This Audio In connector is connected to the

TV tuner. You must use the Audio In connector, which is connected to the motherboard and located on the back of the computer, to record audio only (select models only).

connector (select models only), to connect video output to a TV.

TV/Cable Ant TV In (TV antenna or cable input from wall outlet

with no set-top box).

ATSC TV In connector for TV cable or antenna, to receive

ATSC (Advanced Television System Committee) channels, which are over-the-air digital transmission channels.

CATV TV In connector for TV cable or antenna, to receive

CATV (Community Antenna Television) channels or cable TV channels.

NTSC TV In connector for TV cable or antenna, to receive

NTSC (National Television System Committee) channels, which are over-the-air analog transmission channels.

10 Getting Started (features vary by model)

Connecting the TV signal source coaxial cable (no set-top box)

To connect the computer into an existing setup for the TV signal source without a set-top box, insert (add) a splitter (B) to route the coaxial TV signal cable from the wall outlet (A) to the computer connector (C).

Callouts

A TV signal cable (coaxial) wall outlet (from

antenna or cable)

B Splitter C Computer coaxial TV In connector D Video recorder E TV F Set-top box/satellite box G Remote control IR blaster cable (select

models only)

H Computer S-video In connector

J Computer right and left audio (analog)

connectors

Connecting the TV signal source with a set-top box

To connect the computer into an existing setup for the TV signal source with a set-top box (cable or satellite), insert (add) a splitter (B) to route the coaxial TV signal cable from the set-top box (F) to the computer connector (C).

Connect the remote control cable/IR blaster (select models only) (G) to the IR OUT connector on the computer, and then position the blaster on the set-top box. This enables the computer to change the channel on the box. See “Using an infrared receiver (IR) blaster” on page 13 for blaster placement details.

Setting Up Your Computer 11

Connecting the TV signal source with a set-top box and using S-video or composite video cable to the computer

To use video output from the set-top box (F), add the cables to route video and audio to the computer:

■ Do not detach any cables from the

existing setup.

■ Connect an S-video cable (or you can

use an S-video-to-composite cable adapter) to the S-Video In connector (H) on the computer.

■ Connect audio cables to the audio right

(red) and left (white) connectors (J) on the computer.

■ Connect the remote control cable/IR

blaster (select models only) (G) to the IR OUT connector on the computer, and then position the blaster on the set-top box. This enables the computer to change the channel on the box. See “Using an infrared receiver (IR) blaster” on page 13 for blaster placement details.

12 Getting Started (features vary by model)

Using an infrared receiver (IR) blaster

(Select models only) If you have a cable TV or satellite TV set-top box, you can control the set-top box from the

computer by using the remote control sensor cable/IR blaster (select models only) and the connector on the computer (not available on all models). Remove the tape (1) on the end of the blaster, adhere it to the IR receiver on the set-top box (2), and connect it to the IR OUT connector (3) on the back of the computer. Point the remote control at the remote control sensor on the front top of the computer.

IR OUT

Using an external IR receiver

(Select models only) If you do not have a direct line of sight to the remote sensor on the front of the computer, you

can use an external IR receiver (select models only) and place the IR receiver in a location that can receive a signal from the remote control.

Connect the external receiver to the red IR IN connector on the back of the computer (1). Place the IR receiver (2) in a location with a direct line of sight to the remote control. Point the remote control (3) at the external IR receiver.

IR IN

Setting Up Your Computer 13

14 Getting Started (features vary by model)

Turning On Your Computer for the

First Time

After you have completed the steps on the setup poster, you are ready to turn on the computer.

NOTE: Do not connect or add other devices to the computer until after you turn on the computer for the first time and complete the initial setup.

To turn on the computer:

1 Turn on the monitor. 2 Turn on the computer. 3 Turn on the external speakers, if they are present.

4 Set up the computer and Microsoft

instructions:

■ If prompted, select the country/region in which you are physically located, and

wait while the computer makes preparations. (When you select an alternate language, it may take up to 30 minutes for this one-time language setup on the computer.)

■ Follow the onscreen instructions to register with HP or Compaq, sign up for

updates, and get online.

■ The antivirus software may automatically open. Follow the onscreen instructions to

set up this tool, which protects the computer and your privacy.

5 When you see the Windows Vista desktop, the initial setup is complete.

For help with getting started using your computer, see the remaining topics in this section.

Windows Vista® by following the onscreen

NOTE: If you stop during the initial setup procedure, when you are ready to finish, double-click the Easy Setup icon on the desktop to run the first-time wizard.

Turning On Your Computer for the First Time 15

Turning Off the Computer

For best results when using Windows Vista, do not shut down the computer except when you must turn off the power for safety reasons: to make repairs, to install new hardware or cards in the computer, or to change a battery.

As an alternative to shutting down the computer, you can lock it or put it into either Sleep or Hibernate mode, if it is available. You can set the power management timers to put the computer automatically into Sleep or Hibernate mode.

The computer has these reduced power states:

■ Sleep mode saves your work to memory, so you can resume quickly. It saves memory to

the hard disk drive, and then goes into a reduced-power state. During Sleep mode, the computer hardware light remains on, and the computer is ready to wake quickly and resume your work where you left off.

■ Hibernate mode (available as an advanced power setting) saves the system memory

to a temporary file on the hard disk and then turns off the hardware. When you turn on the computer again, the programs, folders, and documents that you had open are restored to the screen.

Click the Windows Vista

Action

start button and click:

Description

Shut Down

Lock

The Arrow button next to the Lock button,

and then click Shut Down.

The Lock button.

When you shut down the computer, you safely stop the operating system and turn off the computer.

NOTE: Before you shut down the computer, close any open software programs by clicking the X at the upper-right corner of each program window.

To start the computer after a shut down, press the On button on the front of the computer.

When you lock the computer, it continues to operate and only you or an administrator can log on to it by using a password.

16 Getting Started (features vary by model)

Action

Click the Windows Vista start button and click:

Description (continued)

Sleep

■ The Power button.

■ The Arrow button next

to the Lock button,

and then click Sleep.

Hibernate The Arrow button next to the

Lock button,

and then click Hibernate. If Hibernate is not present,

you can set up the computer to go into Hibernate mode automatically; see “Automatic Sleep or Hibernate mode” on page 17.

When you select Sleep mode, the computer goes into a reduced-power state, and the monitor is blank, as if it were turned off. (You can set the computer to retrieve e-mail, receive faxes, or download information from the Internet during Sleep mode.)

NOTE: You can also simply press the Sleep button on the keyboard, if it is present.

To wake the computer from Sleep mode:

■ Press the Sleep button on the

keyboard.

■ Quickly press the On button on the

front of the computer.

When you select Hibernate mode, the computer saves to the hard disk drive everything that is in computer memory, turns off the monitor and the hard disk drive, and then turns itself off. When you turn on the computer again, the programs, folders, and documents that you had open are restored to the screen.

To start the computer from Hibernate, quickly press the On button on the front of the computer.

Automatic Sleep or Hibernate mode

You can set the computer to go into Sleep or Hibernate mode automatically when it is idle for a specified number of minutes. To put the computer into a mode automatically, modify the power management settings:

1 Click the Windows Vista start button on the taskbar. 2 Click Control Panel. 3 Click System and Maintenance. 4 Click Power Options.

Turning On Your Computer for the First Time 17

5 In the left panel, click Change when the computer sleeps. 6 For Sleep mode, select an option from the Put the computer to sleep drop-down

menu, and then click Save changes.

For Hibernate mode:

a Click Change advanced power settings. b Click the plus sign (+) next to Sleep. c Click an item and make your selections, and then click Apply. d Click OK.

Restarting the Computer

When you restart the computer, the computer clears some settings and starts over using the operating system and software in its memory. Restarting is the easiest and most effective way to solve many software issues for the computer.

Also, you may want to install additional software programs or hardware devices onto the computer, and doing so may require that you restart the computer after installation.

To restart the computer:

1 Click the Windows Vista start button on the taskbar. 2 Click the Arrow button next to the Lock button. 3 Click Restart.

Or Quickly press the On button on the front of the computer.

Connecting to the Internet

The computer can connect to the Internet through the telephone modem, a local area network (LAN), or digital subscriber line (DSL). Check with your Internet Service Provider (ISP) for specific information on the connection.

1 Refer to “Setting Up Your Computer” on page 1 to make the hardware connections. You

need:

■ For a network connection, see “Connecting to a Network” on page 7. To check a

wireless LAN device installation, see page 19.

■ For a modem, see “Connecting a Modem” on page 8.

18 Getting Started (features vary by model)

2 To connect to the Internet:

■ Sign up with an ISP. If you already have an account with an ISP, skip this step and

follow the instructions provided by the ISP.

■ If you did not set up the computer for Internet service during the initial setup, do so

now by using Online Services:

a Click the Windows Vista start button on the taskbar. b Click All Programs. c Click Online Services and then click Get Online. d Follow the onscreen instructions to select an ISP and set up Internet service.

NOTE: Online Services provides a list of ISPs, however, you may choose another ISP or

transfer an existing account to this computer. To transfer existing accounts, follow the instructions provided by the ISP.

3 Connect to the Internet. You must connect through your ISP.

■ For dial-up only, double-click the ISP-provided icon on the desktop, and then log in.

4 Open your Web browser and browse the Internet.

You can use any Web browser; most computers have Microsoft Internet Explorer open Internet Explorer:

a Click the Windows Vista start button on the taskbar. b Click Internet Explorer.

NOTE: If you have issues connecting to the Internet, see “Internet access” on page 49.

. To

Checking the wireless LAN device installation

You can verify that the integrated WLAN device is installed on the computer correctly by using the Windows Vista operating system Device Manager:

1 Click the Windows Vista start button on the taskbar. 2 Type Device Manager into the Start Search box, and then click Device Manager to

open the Device Manager window.

3 Click Network adapters. Your WLAN device should be listed here. The WLAN

device may include the term wireless, wireless LAN, or 802.11.

NOTE: If no WLAN device is listed, either the computer does not have an integrated WLAN device, or the driver for the device is not properly installed.

4 Click the Windows Vista start button on the taskbar. 5 Type Network and Sharing Center into the Start Search box, and then click Network

and Sharing Center to open the Network and Sharing Center window.

6 Click Connect to a network, and then follow the onscreen instructions.

Turning On Your Computer for the First Time 19

Using wireless security features

When you set up a home WLAN or access an existing public WLAN, always enable security features to protect the network from unauthorized access. The most common security levels are Wi-Fi Protected Access Personal (WPA-Personal) and Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP).

When setting up a network, use one or more of the following security measures:

■ Enable WPA-Personal or WEP security encryption on the router.

■ Change the default network name (SSID) and password.

■ Set up a firewall.

■ Set security on your Web browser.

Adjusting the Speaker Volume

There are several ways to adjust volume. Use the Volume icon on the Windows Vista taskbar to set speaker volume. Then, you can adjust the volume by using:

■ The Volume knob or buttons on the keyboard (select models only).

■ The Volume knob on the speakers (select models only).

To set speaker volume, use the Volume icon on the taskbar:

1 Click the Realtek High Definition Audio volume icon on the taskbar. 2 Adjust the volume by clicking the slider bar and moving it. 3 When you are satisfied with the sound level, click outside the window to

close it.

1 Right-click the Volume icon on the taskbar, and then click Open Volume

Mixer.

The Volume Mixer settings window opens.

2 Adjust the volume by clicking the slider bar and moving it. 3 When you are satisfied with the sound level, close the window by clicking the X in the

upper-right corner.

For help with audio, check the troubleshooting items in “Audio and speakers” on page 47. For more information, open the Help and Support Center or refer to the Support Web site; see “Getting More Information” on page 35.

Enabling an HDMI-connected display

(Select models only) After you turn on the computer for the first time and complete the initial setup, you need to

adjust some settings to hear sound through an HDMI-connected display (monitor); see “HDMI-connected display produces no sound.” on page 42 to change settings and hear sound from your display.

20 Getting Started (features vary by model)

Selecting the Microphone

The microphone connector on your computer is ready to use. If you have more than one microphone connected, select the microphone that you would like to use in Windows Vista.

NOTE: When you have a webcam or an audio player connected to the computer, because of the audio input from the device, Windows Vista may recognize each as a microphone input.

To select the microphone that you would like to use in Windows Vista:

1 Right-click the Volume icon on the taskbar, and then click Recording

Devices. The Sound window opens.

2 Select the Recording tab. 3 Double-click Microphone, and then select the General tab. 4 Click the microphone connector that you want to use, and then click Apply. 5 Click OK.

Adjusting microphone recording level in Windows Vista

To adjust the recording level of the microphone:

1 Right-click the Realtek HD Audio Manager Volume icon on the taskbar,

and then click Audio Devices.

2 Click the Recording tab. 3 Double-click Microphone, and then click the General tab. 4 Click the microphone connector that you want to use. 5 Click the Levels tab. 6 Adjust the recording level for the microphone by clicking the slider bar and moving it. 7 Click OK, and then click OK again.

Turning On Your Computer for the First Time 21

Protecting Your Computer

Protect your computer, personal settings, and data from a variety of risks by using:

■ Passwords.

■ Antivirus software.

■ Firewall software.

■ Critical security updates.

NOTE: Security solutions are designed to act as deterrents, but they may not be able to prevent software attacks or to prevent the computer from being mishandled or stolen.

Computer risk Computer feature

Unauthorized use of the computer or user account

Computer viruses Antivirus program

Unauthorized access to data Firewall program

Unauthorized access to Setup Utility, BIOS settings, and other system identification information

Ongoing or future threats to the computer Windows Vista critical security updates from

User password

Windows Vista updates

Administrator password

Microsoft

Using passwords

A password is a group of characters that you choose to secure the 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 the Windows Vista operating system on the computer.

CAUTION: To avoid being locked out of the computer, record each password you set. Because passwords are not displayed as they are set, changed, or deleted, it is essential to record each password immediately and store it in a secure place. Do not store passwords in a file on the computer.

You can use the same password for more than one Windows Vista security feature. A password set in Windows Vista must be entered at a Windows Vista prompt.

For information on Windows Vista passwords: Click the Windows Vista start button on the taskbar, click Help and Support, and then type passwords into the Search Help box and press Enter. See “Using the Onscreen Help and Support Center” on page 35.

22 Getting Started (features vary by model)

Using antivirus software

When you use the computer for e-mail, network, or Internet access, you expose it to computer viruses. Computer viruses can disable or damage the operating system, software programs, or computer utilities.

Antivirus software can detect most viruses, remove them, and, in most cases, repair any damage that they have caused. To provide ongoing protection against newly discovered viruses, you must keep the antivirus software up to date.

The antivirus program, which is preinstalled on the computer, includes antivirus and firewall components. The software includes a free trial subscription of protection updates. To protect the computer against new viruses beyond the trial period, purchase an extended update service. Instructions for using and updating the antivirus software, and for purchasing extended update service, are provided within the program.

For more information about computer viruses: Click the Windows Vista start button on the taskbar, click Help and Support, and then type viruses into the Search Help box and press Enter. See “Using the Onscreen Help and Support Center” on page 35.

Using firewall software

When you use the computer for e-mail, network, or Internet access, unauthorized persons may be able to gain access to information about you, your computer, and your data. To protect your privacy, use firewall software:

■ Windows Vista includes firewall software preinstalled on the computer.

■ The antivirus program, which is preinstalled on the computer, includes a firewall

program.

Firewall features include logging, reporting, and automatic alarms to monitor all incoming and outgoing communications.

Under some circumstances, a firewall can block access to Internet games, interfere with printer or file sharing on a network, or block authorized e-mail attachments. To solve the problem temporarily, disable the firewall, perform the task that you want to perform, and then enable the firewall again. To resolve the problem permanently, reconfigure the firewall.

Configuring the Computer for Automatic Microsoft Software Updates

Microsoft continually updates the Windows Vista operating system. Run Windows Vista Update monthly to install these updates, or keep the operating system up to date by using the Automatic Updates feature.

When you are connected to the Internet, Windows Vista Update automatically notifies you (through a pop-up message or icon in the notification area) when critical updates are available. When you see the Windows Vista Update message, allow the updates to download to your system. If you update the system weekly, or even monthly, the time required for download is minimal.

Turning On Your Computer for the First Time 23

Installing critical security updates

CAUTION: To reduce the risk of information damage or loss from security breaches and computer viruses, install all critical updates from Microsoft as soon as you receive an alert.

Additional updates to the operating system and other software may have become available after the computer was shipped. Download all available updates and install them onto the computer.

Setting Up User Accounts

When you share a computer with several people, you can set up a user account for each computer user. Windows Vista uses the information in the user account to determine what files and folders the computer user can access, when they can make changes to the computer, and their personal preferences. Each person can access only their own files and settings.

You, as the administrator, set the privileges for each computer user when you set up the user account. For example, you can set the software programs that the user is allowed to access. Windows Vista provides three types of user accounts:

■ Administrator:

Is allowed to change account types for other users, to change passwords, to change

system-wide settings, to access all files on the computer, and to install software and

drivers that are compatible with Windows Vista.

(Windows Vista requires at least one administrator user account.)

■ Limited - Standard User:

■ Is not allowed to change other user settings or passwords. A Limited account may

not be able to install or run some software.

■ Is allowed to change the limited account picture, and to create, edit, or delete the

account password.

■ Guest:

■ Is allowed to use most software and change system settings that do not affect other

users or the security of the computer.

■ Is not allowed to change other user settings or passwords, or install software.

■ Does not have access to password-protected files, folders, and settings.

24 Getting Started (features vary by model)

Creating multiple user accounts on the same computer has certain advantages, as well as some drawbacks.

■ Advantages to multiple user accounts:

■ Ability to create individual user settings

■ Ability to limit access to software for certain users

■ Drawbacks to multiple user accounts:

■ More memory (RAM) usage

■ Multiple Temporary Internet Files folders to remove during Disk Cleanup

■ More data to back up

■ Longer time to complete virus scan

To create or change a user account:

1 Click the Windows Vista start button on the taskbar, and then click Control

Panel.

2 Under User Accounts and Family Safety, click Add or remove user accounts. Click

Continue in the User Account Control window.

3 Click Create a new account, or click the account user name you want to change. 4 Follow the onscreen instructions or click an action to proceed.

Guidelines for Installing Software and Hardware Devices

After you set up the computer and complete the initial setup, you may want to install additional software programs or hardware devices. Keep in mind the following important guidelines:

■ Before installation, make a restore point by using the Microsoft System Restore program.

The restore point is a snapshot of the computer settings. By using System Restore, you

ensure that you have a stable set of settings to use.

■ Choose software that is compatible with the computer; check the operating system,

memory, and other requirements listed for the new software.

■ Install the new software according to the directions provided by the software

manufacturer. If you need help, check the manufacturer documentation or customer

service information.

■ For antivirus software, uninstall the existing software program before reinstalling it or

installing a new antivirus program.

NOTE: Use only licensed original software. Installing copied software may be illegal, or may result in an unstable installation, or it may infect the computer with a virus.

Turning On Your Computer for the First Time 25

Connecting USB devices

Connect USB peripheral devices to the computer by using any available USB connector. These peripheral devices include printers, scanners, video cameras, digital photo cameras, memory card readers, and personal digital assistants (PDAs) or handheld computers. Refer to the documentation that came with your device for more information.

NOTE: Some peripheral devices are not included with the computer.

Transferring Files and Settings from an Old Computer to Your New Computer

You can copy files from the old computer to your new computer by using CDs or DVDs, memory sticks, or personal media drives, or by using the Windows Easy Transfer cable. To transfer files and copy certain settings, such as Web browser Favorites and address books, use Windows Easy Transfer software, which is included with Windows Vista.

Windows Easy Transfer software guides you to copy files and settings to a storage device or across the Easy Transfer Cable connected to the old computer. The Easy Transfer Cable is a USB cable designed to specifically connect two computers and work with the Windows Easy Transfer software. (The cable is sold separately.) A standard USB cable does not work.

To transfer your files and settings:

1 Click the Windows Vista start button on the taskbar. 2 Click Tools. 3 Click Windows Easy Transfer. 4 Follow the onscreen instructions in the Windows Easy Transfer Wizard to transfer your

files from an old computer to your new one.

For more information, click the Windows Vista start button on the taskbar, click Help and Support, and then type moving files into the Search Help box and press Enter. See “Using the Onscreen Help and Support Center” on page 35.

26 Getting Started (features vary by model)

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