HP Mini 311-1000, Mini 311-1025, 311-1025NR, Mini 311-1100, Mini User Manual
Mini User Guide
© Copyright 2009 Hewlett-Packard
Development Company, L.P.
Bluetooth is a trademark owned by its
proprietor and used by Hewlett-Packard
Company under license. SD Logo is a
trademark of its proprietor. Microsoft and
Windows are U.S. registered trademarks of
Microsoft Corporation.
The information contained herein is subject
to change without notice. The only
warranties for HP products and services are
set forth in the express warranty statements
accompanying such products and services.
Nothing herein should be construed as
constituting an additional warranty. HP shall
not be liable for technical or editorial errors
or omissions contained herein.
Second Edition: December 2009
First Edition: September 2009
Document Part Number: 574399-002
Product notice
This user guide describes features that are
common to most models. Some features
may not be available on your Mini.
To obtain the latest information in the Mini
User Guide, go to the HP Web site at
http://www.hp.com/support.
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. Also, do not allow the AC adapter to contact
the skin or a soft surface, such as pillows or rugs or clothing, during operation. The computer and the
AC adapter comply with the user-accessible surface temperature limits defined by the International
Standard for Safety of Information Technology Equipment (IEC 60950).
iii
iv Safety warning notice
Table of contents
1 Hardware features
Identifying the hardware ....................................................................................................................... 1
Top components .................................................................................................................. 1
TouchPad ............................................................................................................ 1
Lights ................................................................................................................... 2
Buttons ................................................................................................................ 3
Keys .................................................................................................................... 4
Front components ................................................................................................................ 4
Right-side components ........................................................................................................ 5
Left-side components .......................................................................................................... 6
Display components ............................................................................................................ 7
Bottom components ............................................................................................................. 8
Wireless antennas ............................................................................................................... 9
Additional hardware components ...................................................................................... 10
Identifying the labels ........................................................................................................................... 10
2 Using HP QuickWeb software (select models only)
3 Wireless and local area network
Using wireless devices ....................................................................................................................... 13
Identifying wireless and network status icons .................................................................... 14
Using the wireless controls ................................................................................................ 14
Using the wireless button ................................................................................................... 14
Using Wireless Assistant software (select models only) .................................................... 15
Using HP Connection Manager (select models only) ........................................................ 15
Using operating system controls ........................................................................................ 16
Using a WLAN .................................................................................................................................... 17
Setting up a WLAN ............................................................................................................ 17
Protecting your WLAN ....................................................................................................... 17
Connecting to a WLAN ...................................................................................................... 18
Roaming to another network .............................................................................................. 19
Using HP Mobile Broadband (select models only) ............................................................................. 20
Inserting a SIM ................................................................................................................... 20
Removing a SIM ................................................................................................................ 21
Using Bluetooth wireless devices ....................................................................................................... 23
Bluetooth and Internet Connection Sharing (ICS) ............................................................. 23
Troubleshooting wireless connection problems ................................................................................. 24
Cannot connect to a WLAN ............................................................................................... 24
Cannot connect to a preferred WLAN network .................................................................. 25
v
Network icon for WLAN is not displayed ............................................................................ 25
Current WLAN network security codes are unavailable .................................................... 25
WLAN connection is very weak ......................................................................................... 26
Cannot connect to the wireless router ............................................................................... 26
Connecting to a local area network (LAN) .......................................................................................... 27
4 Multimedia
Multimedia features ............................................................................................................................ 28
Identifying your multimedia components ........................................................................... 28
Adjusting the volume ......................................................................................................... 30
Multimedia software ........................................................................................................................... 31
Using preinstalled multimedia software ............................................................................. 31
Installing multimedia software from the Internet ................................................................ 31
Audio .................................................................................................................................................. 32
Connecting external audio devices .................................................................................... 32
Checking your audio functions ........................................................................................... 32
Video .................................................................................................................................................. 34
Connecting an external monitor or projector ...................................................................... 34
Connecting an HDMI device .............................................................................................. 34
Configuring audio for HDMI (select models only) .............................................. 35
Webcam ............................................................................................................................................. 36
5 Drives and external devices
Drives ................................................................................................................................................. 37
Identifying installed drives .................................................................................................. 37
Handling drives .................................................................................................................. 37
Improving hard drive performance ..................................................................................... 38
Using Disk Defragmenter .................................................................................. 38
Using Disk Cleanup ........................................................................................... 39
Replacing the hard drive in the hard drive bay .................................................................. 39
Using external drives ......................................................................................................... 41
Connecting optional external drives .................................................................. 42
Sharing optical drives ........................................................................................................ 42
External devices ................................................................................................................................. 43
Using a USB device ........................................................................................................... 43
Connecting a USB device ................................................................................. 43
Removing a USB device ................................................................................... 43
Using Digital Media Slot cards ........................................................................................... 44
Inserting a digital card ....................................................................................... 44
Removing a digital card ..................................................................................... 45
6 Memory modules
7 Pointing devices and keyboard
Setting pointing device preferences ................................................................................................... 50
Using pointing devices ....................................................................................................................... 50
Using the TouchPad .......................................................................................................... 50
Connecting an external mouse .......................................................................................... 50
Using the keyboard ............................................................................................................................ 50
vi
Using hotkeys .................................................................................................................... 50
Initiating Sleep ................................................................................................... 51
Switching the screen image .............................................................................. 52
Decreasing screen brightness ........................................................................... 52
Increasing screen brightness ............................................................................ 52
Initiating QuickLock ........................................................................................... 52
Muting speaker sound ....................................................................................... 53
Decreasing speaker volume .............................................................................. 53
Increasing speaker volume ............................................................................... 53
8 Power management
Setting power options ......................................................................................................................... 54
Using power-saving states ................................................................................................. 54
Initiating and exiting Sleep ................................................................................ 54
Initiating and exiting Hibernation ....................................................................... 55
Using the battery meter ..................................................................................................... 55
Using power plans ............................................................................................................. 56
Viewing the current power plan ......................................................................... 56
Selecting a different power plan ........................................................................ 56
Customizing power plans .................................................................................. 56
Setting password protection on wakeup ............................................................................ 56
Using external AC power .................................................................................................................... 56
Connecting the AC adapter ............................................................................................... 57
Testing an AC adapter ....................................................................................................... 58
Using battery power ........................................................................................................................... 58
Finding battery information in Help and Support ............................................................... 59
Using Battery Check .......................................................................................................... 59
Displaying the remaining battery charge ........................................................................... 59
Inserting or removing the battery ....................................................................................... 59
Charging a battery ............................................................................................................. 60
Maximizing battery discharge time .................................................................................... 61
Managing low battery levels .............................................................................................. 61
Identifying low battery levels ............................................................................. 61
Resolving a low battery level ............................................................................. 63
Resolving a low battery level when external power is available ....... 63
Resolving a low battery level when a charged battery is
available ........................................................................................... 63
Resolving a low battery level when no power source is
available ........................................................................................... 63
Resolving a low battery level when the computer cannot exit
Hibernation ....................................................................................... 63
Calibrating a battery ........................................................................................................... 63
Step 1: Fully charge the battery ........................................................................ 63
Step 2: Disable Hibernation and Sleep ............................................................. 64
Step 3: Discharge the battery ............................................................................ 64
Step 4: Fully recharge the battery ..................................................................... 66
Step 5: Reenable Hibernation and Sleep .......................................................... 66
Conserving battery power .................................................................................................. 66
Storing a battery ................................................................................................................ 66
Disposing of a used battery ............................................................................................... 67
vii
Shutting down the computer ............................................................................................................... 67
9 Security
Protecting the computer ..................................................................................................................... 68
Using passwords ................................................................................................................................ 68
Setting passwords in Windows .......................................................................................... 69
Setting passwords in Setup Utility ..................................................................................... 69
Administrator password ..................................................................................... 70
Managing an administrator password ............................................... 70
Entering an administrator password ................................................. 70
Power-on password .......................................................................................... 70
Managing a power-on password ...................................................... 71
Entering a power-on password ......................................................... 71
Using antivirus software ..................................................................................................................... 72
Using firewall software ....................................................................................................................... 73
Installing critical updates .................................................................................................................... 74
10 Software updates
Updating the BIOS ............................................................................................................................. 76
Determining the BIOS version ........................................................................................... 76
Downloading a BIOS update ............................................................................................. 76
Updating programs and drivers .......................................................................................................... 78
11 Setup Utility
Starting Setup Utility ........................................................................................................................... 79
Using Setup Utility .............................................................................................................................. 79
Changing the language of Setup Utility ............................................................................. 79
Navigating and selecting in Setup Utility ............................................................................ 79
Displaying system information ........................................................................................... 80
Restoring default settings in Setup Utility .......................................................................... 80
Exiting Setup Utility ............................................................................................................ 80
Setup Utility menus ............................................................................................................................ 81
Main menu ......................................................................................................................... 81
Security menu .................................................................................................................... 81
System Configuration menu .............................................................................................. 81
Diagnostics menu .............................................................................................................. 82
Index ................................................................................................................................................................... 83
viii
1 Hardware features
Identifying the hardware
Components included with the computer may vary by region and model. The illustrations in this chapter
identify the standard features on most computer models.
To see a list of hardware installed in the computer:
1. Select Start > Control panel > System and Security.
2. In the System area, click Device Manager.
You can also add hardware or modify device configurations using Device Manager.
Top components
TouchPad
Component Description
(1) TouchPad* Moves the pointer and selects or activates items on the
screen.
(2) Left TouchPad button* Functions like the left button on an external mouse.
Identifying the hardware 1
Component Description
(3) Right TouchPad button* Functions like the right button on an external mouse.
(4) TouchPad scroll zone Scrolls up or down.
*This table describes factory settings. To view or change pointing device preferences, select Start > Devices and Printers.
Then, right-click the device representing your computer, and select Mouse.
Lights
Component Description
(1) Caps lock light On: Caps lock is on.
(2) Power light
●
On: The computer is on.
●
Blinking: The computer is in the Sleep state.
●
Off: The computer is off or in Hibernation.
(3) Wireless light
●
On: An integrated wireless device, such as a
wireless local area network (WLAN) device
and/or a Bluetooth® device, is on.
●
Off: All wireless devices are off.
2 Chapter 1 Hardware features
Buttons
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 button briefly
to exit Hibernation.
If the computer has stopped responding and Windows® shutdown
procedures are ineffective, press and hold the power button for at
least 5 seconds to turn off the computer.
To learn more about your power settings, select Start > Control
Panel > System and Security > Power Options.
(2) Wireless button Turns the wireless feature on or off but does not create a wireless
connection.
NOTE: To establish a wireless connection, a wireless network
must already be set up.
*This table describes factory settings. For information about changing factory settings, refer to the user guides located in Help
and Support.
Identifying the hardware 3
Keys
Component Description
(1) esc key Displays system information when pressed in
combination with the fn key.
(2) fn key Executes frequently used system functions when
pressed in combination with a function key.
(3) Windows® logo key Displays the Windows Start menu.
(4) Windows applications key Displays a shortcut menu for items beneath the
pointer.
(5) Function keys Execute frequently used system functions when
pressed in combination with the fn key.
Front components
Component Description
(1) Speakers (2) Produce sound.
4 Chapter 1 Hardware features
Component Description
(2) Battery light
●
On: A battery is charging.
●
Blinking: A battery that is the only available
power source has reached a low battery level.
When the battery reaches a critical battery level,
the battery light begins blinking rapidly.
●
Off: If the computer is plugged into an external
power source, the light turns off when all
batteries in the computer are fully charged. If the
computer is not plugged into an external power
source, the light stays off until the battery
reaches a low battery level.
(3) Drive light Blinking: The hard drive or flash drive is being
accessed.
Right-side components
Component Description
(1) Digital Media Slot Supports the following optional digital card formats:
●
Memory Stick (MS)
●
Memory Stick Pro (MS/Pro)
●
MultiMediaCard (MMC)
●
Secure Digital (SD) Memory Card
●
xD-Picture card
(2) Audio-out (headphone) jack/Audio-in (microphone)
jack
Produces sound when connected to optional powered
stereo speakers, headphones, earbuds, a headset, or
television audio. Also connects an optional headset
microphone.
NOTE: When a device is connected to the jack, the
computer speakers are disabled.
The audio component cable must have a 4-conductor
connector.
(3) USB ports (2) Connect optional USB devices.
Identifying the hardware 5
Component Description
(4) External monitor port Connects an external VGA monitor or projector.
(5) RJ-45 (network) jack Connects a network cable.
Left-side components
Component Description
(1) Security cable slot Attaches an optional 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) Power connector Connects an AC adapter.
(3) Vent Enables airflow to cool internal components.
NOTE: The computer fan starts up automatically to
cool internal components and prevent overheating. It
is normal for the internal fan to cycle on and off during
routine operation.
(4) USB port Connects an optional USB device.
(5) HDMI port Connects an optional video or audio device, such as
a high-definition television, or any compatible digital
or audio component.
NOTE: Depending on your computer model, the
computer may include an HDMI port or a USB port at
this location.
6 Chapter 1 Hardware features
Display components
Component Description
(1) Internal display switch Turns off the display if the display is closed while the
power is on.
(2) Webcam light On: The webcam is in use.
(3) Webcam Captures still photographs and videos.
NOTE: To capture videos, you must install additional
webcam software.
(4) Internal microphone Records sound.
Identifying the hardware 7
Bottom components
Component Description
(1) Battery release latches (2) Release the battery from the battery bay.
(2) Battery bay Holds the battery.
(3) Vents (4) Enable airflow to cool internal components.
NOTE: The computer fan starts up automatically to cool
internal components and prevent overheating. It is normal
for the internal fan to cycle on and off during routine
operation.
(4) Hard drive bay Contains the hard drive, the wireless LAN module slot, and
the memory module slot.
CAUTION: To prevent an unresponsive system, replace
the wireless module only with a wireless module authorized
for use in the computer by the governmental agency that
regulates wireless devices in your country or region. If you
replace the module and then receive a warning message,
remove the module to restore computer functionality, and
then contact technical support through Help and Support.
8 Chapter 1 Hardware features
Wireless antennas
Component Description
(1) WLAN antennas (2)* Send and receive wireless signals to communicate with wireless
local area networks (WLANs).
(2) WWAN antennas (2) (select models only)* Send and receive wireless signals to communicate with wireless
wide-area networks (WWANs).
*The antennas are not visible from the outside of the computer. For optimal transmission, keep the areas immediately around
the antennas free from obstructions.
To see wireless regulatory notices, refer to the section of the Regulatory, Safety and Environmental
Notices that applies to your country or region. These notices are located in Help and Support.
Identifying the hardware 9
Additional hardware components
Component Description
(1) Power cord* Connects an AC adapter to an AC outlet.
(2) Battery* Powers the computer when the computer is not plugged into
external power.
(3) AC adapter Converts AC power to DC power.
*Batteries and power cords vary in appearance by region and country.
Identifying the labels
The labels affixed to the computer provide information you may need when you troubleshoot system
problems or travel internationally with the computer.
●
Service tag—Provides important information including the following:
◦
Product name (1). This is the product name affixed to the front of your computer.
◦
Serial number (s/n) (2). This is an alphanumeric identifier that is unique to each product.
◦
Part Number/Product number (p/n) (3). This number provides specific information about the
hardware components of the product. The part number helps a service technician to determine
what components and parts are needed.
10 Chapter 1 Hardware features
◦
Model description (4). This is the alphanumeric identifier you use to locate documents, drivers,
and support for your computer.
◦
Warranty period (5). This number describes the duration (in years) of the warranty period for
this computer.
Have this information available when you contact technical support. The service tag label is affixed
to the bottom of the computer.
●
Microsoft® Certificate of Authenticity—Contains the Windows® Product Key. You may need the
Product Key to update or troubleshoot the operating system. This certificate is affixed to the bottom
of the computer.
●
Regulatory label—Provides regulatory information about the computer, including the following:
◦
Information about optional wireless devices and the approval markings of some of the
countries or regions in which the devices have been approved for use. An optional device may
be a wireless local area network (WLAN) device. You may need this information when
traveling internationally.
◦
The serial number of your HP Mobile Broadband Module.
The regulatory label is affixed inside the battery bay.
Identifying the labels 11
2 Using HP QuickWeb software (select
models only)
HP QuickWeb software is an optional, instant-on environment that is separate from the Windows
operating system. QuickWeb allows you to rapidly access certain programs without the need to start
the operating system. You will enjoy this feature if you browse the Internet, view and send e-mail, view
digital photos, listen to music, or keep in touch through instant messages or Skype. QuickWeb is ready
to go within seconds of pressing the power button.
QuickWeb includes the following features:
●
Web browser—Search and browse the Internet, and create links to your favorite Web sites.
●
Music Player—Listen to your favorite music and create playlists.
●
Photo Viewer—Browse through photos, create albums, and view slide shows.
●
Skype (select models only)—Skype is a voice over Internet protocol (VoIP) that lets you
communicate free of charge with other Skype users. With Skype, you can have a conference call
or a video chat with one or more people at a time. You can also make long-distance phone calls
to land lines.
●
Chat—Chat with friends on multiple instant messaging programs, such as Google Talk, Windows
Live Messenger, Yahoo! Messenger, and other providers.
●
Web calendar—Display, edit, and organize your schedule using your favorite online calendar
program.
●
Web e-mail—View and send e-mail using Yahoo, Gmail, and other Web e-mail providers.
NOTE: For information on using QuickWeb, refer to the Notebook Essentials guide included with your
computer.
12 Chapter 2 Using HP QuickWeb software (select models only)
3 Wireless and local area network
Using wireless devices
Wireless technology transfers data across radio waves instead of wires. Your computer may be
equipped with one or more of the following wireless devices:
●
Wireless local area network (WLAN) device—Connects the computer to wireless local area
networks (commonly referred to as Wi-Fi networks, wireless LANs, or WLANs) in corporate offices,
your home, and public places such as airports, restaurants, coffee shops, hotels, and universities.
In a WLAN, each mobile wireless device communicates with a wireless router or a wireless access
point.
●
HP Mobile Broadband Module—A wireless wide area network (WWAN) device that provides
access to information wherever mobile network operator service is available. In a WWAN, each
mobile device communicates to a mobile network operator’s base station. Mobile network operators
install networks of base stations (similar to cell phone towers) throughout large geographic areas,
effectively providing coverage across entire states, regions, or even countries.
●
Bluetooth® device—Creates a personal area network (PAN) to connect to other Bluetooth-enabled
devices such as computers, phones, printers, headsets, speakers, and cameras. In a PAN, each
device communicates directly with other devices, and devices must be relatively close together—
typically within 10 meters (approximately 33 feet) of each other.
Computers with WLAN devices support one or more of the following IEEE industry standards:
●
802.11b, the first popular standard, supports data rates of up to 11 Mbps and operates at a
frequency of 2.4 GHz.
●
802.11g supports data rates of up to 54 Mbps and operates at a frequency of 2.4 GHz. An 802.11g
WLAN device is backward compatible with 802.11b devices, so they can operate on the same
network.
●
802.11a supports data rates of up to 54 Mbps and operates at a frequency of 5 GHz.
NOTE: 802.11a is not compatible with 802.11b and 802.11g.
●
802.11n supports data rates of up to 450 Mbps and may operate at 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz, making it
backward compatible with 802.11a, b, and g.
For more information on wireless technology, refer to the information and Web site links provided in
Help and Support.
Using wireless devices 13
Identifying wireless and network status icons
Icon Name Description
Wireless (connected) Identifies the location of the wireless light and the wireless
function key on the computer. Also identifies the Wireless
Assistant software on the computer and indicates that one or
more of the wireless devices are on.
Wireless (disconnected) Identifies the Wireless Assistant software on the computer
and indicates that all of the wireless devices are off.
HP Connection Manager Opens HP Connection Manager, which enables you to create
a connection with an HP Mobile Broadband device (select
models only).
Wired network (connected) Indicates that one or more of your network drivers are
installed and one or more network devices are connected to
the network.
Wired network (disabled/disconnected) Indicates that one or more of your network drivers are
installed, all network devices or all wireless devices are
disabled in Windows® Control Panel, and no network
devices are connected to a wired network.
Network (disabled/disconnected) Indicates that one or more of your network drivers are
installed, no wireless connections are available or all wireless
network devices are disabled by the wireless button or
Wireless Assistant, and no network devices are connected
to a wired network.
Network (connected) Indicates that one or more of your network drivers are
installed, one or more network devices are connected to a
wireless network, and one or more network devices are
connected to a wired network.
Network (disconnected) Indicates that one or more of your network drivers are
installed and wireless connections are available, but no
network devices are connected to a wired or wireless
network.
Using the wireless controls
You can control the wireless devices in your computer using these features:
●
Wireless button or wireless switch
●
Wireless Assistant software (select models only)
●
HP Connection Manager software (select models only)
●
Operating system controls
Using the wireless button
The computer has a wireless button, one or more wireless devices, and one or two wireless lights,
depending on the model. All of the wireless devices on your computer are enabled at the factory, so the
wireless light is on (blue) when you turn on the computer.
14 Chapter 3 Wireless and local area network
The wireless light indicates the overall power state of your wireless devices, not the status of individual
devices. If the wireless light is blue, at least one wireless device is on. If the wireless light is off, all
wireless devices are off.
NOTE: On some models, the wireless light is amber when all wireless devices are off.
Because the wireless devices are enabled at the factory, you can use the wireless button to turn on or
turn off the wireless devices simultaneously. Individual wireless devices can be controlled through
Wireless Assistant software (select models only).
Using Wireless Assistant software (select models only)
A wireless device can be turned on or off using the Wireless Assistant software. If a wireless device is
disabled in Setup Utility, it must be reenabled in Setup Utility before it can be turned on or off using
Wireless Assistant.
NOTE: Enabling or turning on a wireless device does not automatically connect the computer to a
network or a Bluetooth-enabled device.
To view the state of the wireless devices, click the Show hidden icons icon, the arrow at the left of the
notification area, and position the mouse pointer over the wireless icon.
If the wireless icon is not displayed in the notification area, complete the following steps to change
Wireless Assistant properties:
1. Select Start > Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > Windows Mobility Center.
2. Click the wireless icon in the Wireless Assistant tile, which is located in the bottom row of Windows®
Mobility Center.
3. Click Properties.
4. Select the check box next to HP Wireless Assistant icon in notification area.
5. Click Apply.
6. Click Close.
For more information, refer to the Wireless Assistant software Help:
1. Open Wireless Assistant by clicking the wireless icon in Windows Mobility Center.
2. Click the Help button.
Using HP Connection Manager (select models only)
You can use HP Connection Manager to connect to WWANs using the HP Mobile Broadband device in
your computer (select models only).
To start Connection Manager, click the Connection Manager icon in the notification area, at the far
right of the taskbar.
– or –
Select Start > All Programs > HP Connection Manager > HP Connection Manager.
For more details about using Connection Manager, refer to the Connection Manager software Help.
Using wireless devices 15
Using operating system controls
Some operating systems also offer a way to manage integrated wireless devices and the wireless
connection. For example, Windows provides the Network and Sharing Center that allows you to set up
a connection or network, connect to a network, manage wireless networks, and diagnose and repair
network problems.
To access the Network and Sharing Center, select Start > Control Panel > Network and Internet >
Network and Sharing Center.
For more information, select Start > Help and Support.
16 Chapter 3 Wireless and local area network
Using a WLAN
With a WLAN device, you can access a wireless local area network (WLAN), which is composed of other
devices and accessories that are linked by a wireless router or a wireless access point.
NOTE: The terms wireless router and wireless access point are often used interchangeably.
●
A large-scale WLAN, such as a corporate or public WLAN, typically uses wireless access points
that can accommodate a large number of devices and accessories and can separate critical
network functions.
●
A home or small office WLAN typically uses a wireless router, which allows several wireless and
wired computers to share an Internet connection, a printer, and files without requiring additional
pieces of hardware or software.
To use the WLAN device in your computer, you must connect to a WLAN infrastructure (provided through
a service provider or a public or corporate network).
Setting up a WLAN
To set up a WLAN and connect to the Internet, you need the following equipment:
●
A broadband modem (either DSL or cable) (1) and high-speed Internet service purchased from an
Internet service provider (ISP)
●
A wireless router (purchased separately) (2)
●
The computer, equipped with a wireless device (3)
The illustration below shows an example of a wireless network installation that is connected to the
Internet.
As your network grows, additional wireless and wired computers can be connected to the network to
access the Internet.
For help in setting up your WLAN, refer to the information provided by your router manufacturer or your
ISP.
Protecting your WLAN
Because the WLAN standard was designed with only limited security capabilities—basically to foil casual
eavesdropping rather than more powerful forms of attack—it is essential to understand that WLANs are
vulnerable to well-known and well-documented security weaknesses.
WLANs in public areas, or “hotspots,” like coffee shops and airports may not provide any security. New
technologies are being developed by wireless manufacturers and hotspot service providers that make
the public environment more secure and anonymous. If you are concerned about the security of your
computer in a hotspot, limit your network activities to noncritical e-mail and basic Internet surfing.
Using a WLAN 17
When you set up a WLAN or access an existing WLAN, always enable security features to protect your
network from unauthorized access. The common security levels are Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA)Personal and Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP). Because wireless radio signals travel outside the
network, other WLAN devices can pick up unprotected signals and either connect to your network
(uninvited) or capture information being sent across it. However, you can take precautions to protect
your WLAN:
●
Use a wireless transmitter with built-in security.
Many wireless base stations, gateways, or routers provide built-in security features such as
wireless security protocols and firewalls. With the correct wireless transmitter, you can protect your
network from the most common wireless security risks.
●
Work behind a firewall.
A firewall is a barrier that checks both data and requests for data that are sent to your network,
and discards any suspicious items. Firewalls are available in many varieties, both software and
hardware. Some networks use a combination of both types.
●
Use wireless encryption.
A variety of sophisticated encryption protocols is available for your WLAN. Find the solution that
works best for your network security:
◦
Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) is a wireless security protocol that encodes or encrypts all
network data before it is transmitted using a WEP key. Usually, you can allow the network to
assign the WEP key. Alternatively, you can set up your own key, generate a different key, or
choose other advanced options. Without the correct key, others are not able to use the WLAN.
◦
WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access), like WEP, uses security settings to encrypt and decrypt data
that is transmitted over the network. However, instead of using one static security key for
encryptions as WEP does, WPA uses “temporal key integrity protocol” (TKIP) to dynamically
generate a new key for every packet. It also generates different sets of keys for each computer
on the network.
Connecting to a WLAN
To connect to the WLAN, follow these steps:
1. Be su r e t h a t the WLAN device is on. If it is on, t h e wireless light is blue. If the wireless light is amber,
press the wireless button.
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.
If the network is a security-enabled WLAN, you are prompted to enter a network security key, which
is a security code. Type the code, and then click OK to complete the connection.
NOTE: If no WLANs are listed, you are out of range of a wireless router or access point.
NOTE: If you do not see the network you want to connect to, click Open Network and Sharing
Center, and then click Set up a new connection or network. A list of options is displayed. You
can choose to manually search for and connect to a network or to create a new network connection.
18 Chapter 3 Wireless and local area network
After the connection is made, place the mouse pointer over the network icon in the notification area, at
the far right of the taskbar, to verify the name and status of the connection.
NOTE: The functional range (how far your wireless signals travel) depends on WLAN implementation,
router manufacturer, and interference from other electronic devices or structural barriers such as walls
and floors.
More information about using a WLAN is available through the following resources:
●
Information from your ISP and the manufacturer's instructions included with your wireless router
and other WLAN equipment
●
Information and Web site links provided in Help and Support
For a list of public WLANs near you, contact your ISP or search the Web. Web sites that list public
WLANs include Cisco Internet Mobile Office Wireless Locations, Hotspotlist, and Geektools. Check with
each public WLAN location for cost and connection requirements.
Roaming to another network
When you move your computer within range of another WLAN, Windows attempts to connect to that
network. If the attempt is successful, your computer is automatically connected to the new network. If
Windows does not recognize the new network, follow the same procedure you used initially to connect
to your WLAN.
Using a WLAN 19
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 (called a mobile network operator), which in most cases
is a mobile phone network operator. Coverage for HP Mobile Broadband is similar to mobile phone voice
coverage.
When used with mobile network operator service, HP Mobile Broadband gives you the freedom to stay
connected to the Internet, send e-mail, or connect to your corporate network whether you are on the
road or outside the range of Wi-Fi hotspots.
HP Mobile Broadband supports the following technologies:
●
HSPA (High Speed Packet Access), which provides access to networks based on the Global
System for Mobile Communications (GSM) telecommunications standard.
●
EV-DO (Evolution Data Optimized), which provides access to networks based on the code division
multiple access (CDMA) telecommunications standard.
You may need the HP Mobile Broadband Module serial number to activate mobile broadband service.
The serial number is printed on a label inside the battery bay of your computer.
Some mobile network operators require the use of a subscriber identity module (SIM). A SIM contains
basic information about you, such as a personal identification number (PIN), as well as network
information. Some computers include a SIM that is preinstalled in the battery bay. If the SIM is not
preinstalled, it may be included with the HP Mobile Broadband information provided with your computer,
or the mobile network operator may provide it separately from the computer.
For information on inserting and removing the SIM, refer to the “Inserting a SIM” and “Removing a SIM”
sections in this chapter.
For information on HP Mobile Broadband and how to activate service with a preferred mobile network
operator, refer to the HP Mobile Broadband information included with your computer. For additional
information, see the HP Web site at
http://www.hp.com/go/mobilebroadband (US only).
Inserting a SIM
To insert a SIM:
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.
5. Turn the computer upside down on a flat surface, with the battery bay toward you.
6. Remove the battery.
20 Chapter 3 Wireless and local area network
CAUTION: When inserting a SIM, position the card with the slanted corner as shown in the
illustration. If a SIM is inserted backwards or upside down, the battery may not snap into place
properly and could damage the SIM and the SIM connector.
To prevent damage to the connectors, use minimal force when inserting a SIM.
7. Insert the SIM into the SIM slot, and gently push the SIM into the slot until it is firmly seated.
8. Replace the battery.
NOTE: HP Mobile Broadband is disabled if the battery is not replaced.
9. Reconnect external power.
10. Reconnect external devices.
11. Turn on the computer.
Removing a SIM
To remove a SIM:
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.
5. Turn the computer upside down on a flat surface, with the battery bay toward you.
6. Remove the battery.
Using HP Mobile Broadband (select models only) 21
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