HP 370697-002 User Manual

Reference Guide

HP Notebook Series

Document Part Number: 370697-002

April 2005

This guide explains how to set up, operate, maintain, and
troubleshoot your notebook. It also provides information on
battery pack and power management, external device
connections, and modem and network connections. The last
chapter provides additional reference material on modem
commands, safety, and regulatory information.

© Copyright 2004, 2005 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.

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.

Reference Guide
HP Notebook Series
Second Edition April 2005
First Edition June 2004
Document Part Number: 370697-002

Contents

1 Getting Started with Your Notebook

Identifying Parts of the Notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1–1

Front Panel and Right Panel Components . . . . . . . . 1–2

Left Panel and Back Panel Components . . . . . . . . . . 1–3

Bottom Panel Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1–4

Status Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1–5

Setting Up Your Notebook. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1–7

Step 1: Insert the Battery Pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1–7

Step 2: Connect AC Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1–8

Step 3: Connect a Phone Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1–9

Step 4: Turn On the Notebook. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1–10

Step 5: Set Up Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1–11

2 Basic Operation

Operating Your Notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–1

Default Power Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–2

To Reset the Notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–3

To Change the Boot Device. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–3

To Use the TouchPad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–4

To Use the Tap to Click Function of

the TouchPad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–5

To Use the Function Hot Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–6

To Use the One-Touch Buttons. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–7

To Use the Windows and Applications Keys . . . . . . 2–8

To Type Alternate Graphics Using

the ALT GR Key . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–9

Reference Guide iii

Contents

Using CDs or DVDs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–10

To Insert or Remove a CD or DVD. . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–10

To Play DVD Movies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–11

To Write to DVD Media (Select Models Only) . . . 2–12

To Create or Copy CDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–12

Securing Your Notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–13

To Set Up Password Protection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–13

To Lock Your Notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–13

To Attach an Optional Security Cable. . . . . . . . . . . 2–14

To Protect Against Viruses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–14

To Lock the Hard Drive. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–15

Taking Care of Your Notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–15

To Protect Your Hard Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–15

To Maintain Your Notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–16

To Safeguard Your Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–16

To Extend the Life of the Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–17

To Clean Your Notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–17

3 Battery Packs and Power Management

Managing Power Consumption . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–1

How the Notebook Manages Power

Automatically . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–2

To Change Timeout Settings and Create

Power Schemes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–3

Using Battery Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–3

To Check Battery Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–3

To Respond to a Low-Battery Warning . . . . . . . . . . 3–4

To Recharge the Battery Pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–5

To Get the Most from Your Battery Packs . . . . . . . . 3–5

Disposing of a Used Battery Pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–7

iv Reference Guide

4 Modem and Network Connections

Using the Modem. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–1

To Connect the Modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–2

Special Restrictions in Certain Countries . . . . . . . . . 4–3

To Change Your Modem Settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–4

Connecting to a Local Area Network (LAN). . . . . . . . . . 4–5

Making Wireless Network Connections

(Select Models Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–6

To Turn Wireless Communication On and Off. . . . . 4–7

5 Add-On Devices

Connecting External Devices. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–1

To Insert or Remove a PC Card. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–1

To Connect an Audio Device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–3

To Connect a TV to Your Notebook

(Select Models Only). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–4

Switching the Display to the External Monitor

(Select Models Only). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–5

To Connect a 1394 Device

(Select Models Only). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–7

To Connect an Infrared Device

(Select Models Only). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–7

Installing Additional RAM (Memory). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–9

To Install a RAM Expansion Module . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–9

To Remove a RAM Expansion Module . . . . . . . . . 5–10

Replacing the Hard Drive. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–12

To Replace the Hard Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–12

To Replace the Hard Drive Holder . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–13

To Prepare a New Hard Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–14

Contents

6 Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting Your Notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–1

Audio Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–2

CD-ROM and DVD Problems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–3

Reference Guide v

Contents

Display Problems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–4

Hard Drive Problems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–5

Heat Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–6

Infrared Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–7

Keyboard and Pointing Device Problems . . . . . . . . . 6–7

Local Area Network (LAN) Problems . . . . . . . . . . . 6–8

Memory Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–9

Modem Problems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–10

PC Card (PCMCIA) Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–13

Performance Problems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–14

Power and Battery Pack Problems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–15

Printing Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–18

Serial, Parallel and USB Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–19

Startup Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–20

Wireless Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–22

Configuring Your Notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–24

To Run the BIOS Setup Utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–24

Updating Software and Drivers from the Web . . . . . . . 6–29

Using System Recovery Features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–29

Safeguarding Your Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–30

Operating System (OS) CD Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–31

OS CD Reinstall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–32

Reinstalling Drivers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–33

Restoring Software Applications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–33

Index

vi Reference Guide

Getting Started with

Your Notebook

Identifying Parts of the Notebook

Components included with the notebook may vary by
geographical region and the features you selected. The following
tables identify the standard external components included with
most notebook models.

Find the illustrations that closely match your notebook to identify
your components.

1

Reference Guide 1–1

Getting Started with Your Notebook

Front Panel and Right Panel Components

Main status lights (left to right):

1

power mode, hard drive activity,
and battery

TouchPad, scroll pad, Click

2

buttons, and an on-off button

Power button: turns the notebook

3

on and off

Keyboard status lights

4

One-Touch buttons

5

Notebook open/close latch

6

1–2 Reference Guide

CD-ROM, DVD, or other drive

7

Battery pack

8

Wireless on-off button and

9

indicator light (select
models only)

Infrared port (select models only)

-

Hard drive

q

Getting Started with Your Notebook

Left Panel and Back Panel Components

AC adapter jack

1

Universal serial bus (USB) ports

2

RJ-45 jack: connects a network

3

cable

S-Video out jack

4

(select models only)

Parallel port (LPT1): use this port

5

for a parallel printer or other
parallel device (select models only)

Serial port (COM1): use this port

6

for a serial mouse, modem, printer,
or other serial device
(select models only)

External monitor port

7

Cable lock slot (security connector)

8

Reference Guide 1–3

RJ-11 jack: connects the

9

modem cable

PC Card and CardBus slot and

-

button (select models only;
location varies by model)

IEEE 1394 port

q

(select models only)

Audio jacks (left to right):

w

external microphone, audio out
(headphones)

Volume control

e

Audio mute button and audio

r

mute light

Diskette drive

t

(select models only)

Getting Started with Your Notebook

Bottom Panel Components

Hard drive

1

Battery latch

2

RAM (memory) cover

3

CAUTION: To prevent an unresponsive system and the display of a

Ä

warning message, install only a Mini PCI device authorized for use in
your notebook by the governmental agency that regulates wireless
devices in your country. If you install a device and then receive a
warning message, remove the device to restore notebook functionality.
Then contact Customer Care.

1–4 Reference Guide

Reset button

4

Mini PCI cover

5

(no user parts inside)

Status Lights

The notebook includes a number of status lights that report power
and battery status, drive activity, and keyboard functions such as
Caps Lock and Num Lock.

The following diagram shows the main status lights on the front
of the notebook.

Getting Started with Your Notebook

Power mode

1

■ On—notebook is on (even if the display is off)

■ Blinking—notebook is in Standby

■ Off—notebook is off or in Hibernation

Hard drive activity

2

On—notebook is accessing the hard drive

Battery status

3

■ Green—Battery pack is fully charged

■ Amber—Battery pack is charging

■ Blinking—Battery pack has reached a low-battery condition

■ Off—No AC power is applied, or AC power is applied with battery

pack either close to full-charge capacity or not installed

Reference Guide 1–5

Getting Started with Your Notebook

The keyboard status lights, located above the keyboard, indicate
the states of the keyboard locks.

Caps Lock On: Caps Lock is active.

1

Num Lock On: Num Lock is active. (The Keypad Lock must also be

2

on to use the embedded keypad.)
Keypad Lock On: The embedded keypad is active (Fn+F8). Num

3

Lock must also be on for the numeric keys. Otherwise, cursor control
is active (as marked on an external keyboard).

1–6 Reference Guide

Getting Started with Your Notebook

Setting Up Your Notebook

WARNING: To reduce the risk of serious injury, read the Safety &

Å

Comfort Guide. It describes proper workstation setup, posture, and
health and work habits for computer users, and provides important
electrical and mechanical safety information. This guide is located on
the Web at http://www.hp.com/ergo and on the hard drive or on the
Documentation CD that is included with the product.

When you set up your notebook for the first time, you will
connect the AC adapter, charge the battery pack, turn on the
notebook, and run the Microsoft® Windows® Setup program.

Step 1: Insert the Battery Pack

WARNING: Do not mutilate or puncture battery packs. Do not dispose

Å

of battery packs in fire, or they can burst or explode, releasing
hazardous chemicals. Rechargeable battery packs must be recycled or
disposed of properly.

To install the battery pack:

1. Turn the notebook upside down.

2. Insert the connector end of the battery pack into the battery
pack compartment, then slide the battery pack in until it
latches.

Reference Guide 1–7

Getting Started with Your Notebook

Step 2: Connect AC Power

CAUTION: Use only the AC adapter included with your notebook (or

other approved adapter that meets the power requirements of the

Ä

notebook). Using the wrong AC adapter could damage the notebook
or adapter, cause data loss, and may void your warranty.

1. Plug the AC adapter into the notebook.

2. Connect the power cord to the AC adapter.

3. Plug the power cord into a wall outlet. The notebook battery
starts charging.

When unplugging the power cord, unplug it from the outlet

✎

before unplugging it from the AC adapter.

While the battery pack is charging, you can continue with the
section “Step 3: Connect a Phone Line.”

1–8 Reference Guide

Getting Started with Your Notebook

Step 3: Connect a Phone Line

1. Make sure the telephone line is an analog line, sometimes
called a data line. (Do not use a digital line.)

2. Connect the telephone cord (RJ-11) into a telephone jack.

3. Plug the other end of the telephone cord into the RJ-11
modem jack on the notebook.

For details about using the modem, see “Using the Modem.”

Reference Guide 1–9

Getting Started with Your Notebook

Step 4: Turn On the Notebook

Press the power button above the left side of the keyboard. The
notebook boots up, and Windows starts automatically.

If your notebook does not turn on when operating on

✎

battery power, the battery pack may be out of power. Plug in
the AC adapter, then press the power button again. Leave the
AC adapter plugged in for several hours to fully charge
the battery pack. Charge times will vary.

WARNING: This notebook is designed to run demanding applications

Å

at full power. As a result of increased power consumption, it is normal
for the notebook to feel warm or hot when used continuously. To avoid
potential discomfort or burns, do not block the air vents or use the
notebook on your lap for extended periods. The notebook complies
with the user-accessible surface temperature limits defined by the
International Standard for Safety of Information Technology Equipment
(IEC 60950).

1–10 Reference Guide

Step 5: Set Up Windows

Your notebook has the Microsoft Windows operating system
preinstalled on its hard drive. The first time you turn on your
notebook, the Windows Setup program runs automatically and
includes opportunities to customize your setup.

1. Follow the Setup program instructions on the screen. If the
program prompts you to enter the Product ID code, locate
the code on the bottom of the notebook.

2. Check the modem country or region settings. Select Start >
Control Panel > Printers and Other Hardware > Phone and
Modem Options, then choose your country/region.

Getting Started with Your Notebook

Reference Guide 1–11

Basic Operation

Operating Your Notebook

You can start and stop your notebook by using the power button.
At other times, power considerations, types of active connections,
and startup time may cause you to use alternative methods to start
or stop your notebook. This chapter describes several methods.

2

HP Manual Title 2–1

Basic Operation

Default Power Settings

Power mode To enter this mode Function

ON—Power status

light will turnon.
OFF—Power status

light will turn off.

Standby—Power
status light will blink.

Hibernation—Power
status light will
turn off.

Briefly press the power
button.

Select Start > Turn Off
Computer > Turn Off. If the
system has stopped
responding and Windows
shutdown procedures cannot
be used, press and hold the
power button for 4 seconds to
turn off the notebook.

Select Start > Turn Off
Computer > Stand By.

-or­Allow the system to time out.

If the notebook is already on,
briefly press the power
button.

-or­Press Fn+F12.

-or­Allow the system to time out.

Powers on the notebook.

Powers off the notebook.

■ Saves significant

power.

■ Turns off the display

and other
components.

■ Maintains current

session in RAM.

■ Restarts quickly.

■ Restores network

connections.

■ Saves maximum

power.

■ Saves current

session to disk, then
shuts down.

■ Restores network

connections.

You can also customize the way these power modes work. See the

“Battery Packs and Power Management” chapter in this guide.

2–2 HP Manual Title

To Reset the Notebook

Occasionally, you may find that Windows or the notebook has
stopped responding and will not let you turn off the notebook. If
this happens, try the following procedures in this order:

■ If possible, shut down Windows. Press ctrl+alt+del, then select

Shut Down > Restart.

-or-

■ Press the power button for at least 4 seconds until the display

shuts down. Unsaved data will be lost. Press the power button
again to restart.

-or-

■ Insert the tip of a paper clip into the reset button on the

bottom of the notebook, then press the power button to
restart.

To Change the Boot Device

The notebook normally boots from its internal hard drive. You
can also boot the notebook from a diskette drive, a CD-ROM
drive, or an internal network interface card.

Basic Operation

1. Select Start > Turn Off Computer > Restart.

2. When the logo screen appears, press

esc to display the

Boot menu.

3. Use the arrow keys to select the boot device, then press

enter.

If you want to boot from a specific device whenever it is present,
change the boot order using the BIOS Setup utility. See

“Configuring Your Notebook” in the “Troubleshooting” chapter

in this guide.

HP Manual Title 2–3

Basic Operation

To Use the TouchPad

The TouchPad includes an on-off button so you can turn off the
TouchPad to avoid moving the pointer accidentally when you are
typing. The indicator light turns off when you turn off the
TouchPad.

Click buttons. The Click buttons work like the left and right buttons on

1

a standard mouse
Touch Pad (touch-sensitive pointing device).

2

TouchPad on-off button and indicator light.

3

Scroll pad. The scroll pad scrolls vertically to display

4

the contents of the active window.

2–4 HP Manual Title

Basic Operation

To Use the Tap to Click Function of the TouchPad

The Tap to Click function of your TouchPad is enabled by default.
To disable it, follow the instructions included here:

1. Select Start > Control Panel > Printers and Other Hardware >
Mouse. The Mouse Properties dialog box opens.

2. Select the Tapping tab.

3. In the left panel, clear the Tapping check box.

4. Select Apply > OK.

The Tap to Click function is now disabled.

HP Manual Title 2–5

Basic Operation

To Use the Function Hot Keys

Fn

The combination of the Fn key plus another key creates a hot
key—a shortcut key sequence—for various system controls. To
use a hot key, press and hold
then release both keys.

This hot key Does this

Fn+F1 Decreases the display brightness.
Fn+F2 Increases the display brightness.
Fn+F5 Toggles the external monitor on and off.
Fn+F8 Toggles the built-in keypad on and off. Does

Fn+F12 Initiates Hibernation.

Fn, press the appropriate second key,

not affect an external keyboard. If Num Lock
is on, then the numeric functions are active;
otherwise, cursor control is active (as marked
on an external keyboard).

Fn+NumLock Toggles Scroll Lock on and off.
Fn+Page Up Increases the audio volume and cancels the

Fn+Page Down Decreases the audio volume.
Fn+Backspace Mutes/unmutes the audio output.

2–6 HP Manual Title

mute setting.

To Use the One-Touch Buttons

Your notebook includes 5 One-Touch buttons that can start
any application or open a document or Web site by pressing a
single key.

Press a One-Touch button to open the corresponding application,
document, or Web site.

Basic Operation

To program a One-Touch button:

1. Select Start > All Programs > Utilities > One-Touch.

2. On the One-Touch tab, select the button you want to
reprogram.

3. Type a label for the button, then select the application,
document, folder, or Web site you want the button to open.

4. If you want a label to appear onscreen when you press a
One-Touch button, select that option on the Onscreen
Display tab.

HP Manual Title 2–7

Basic Operation

To Use the Windows and Applications Keys

The Windows key brings up the Windows Start menu. This is the
same as selecting the Start button on the taskbar.

The Applications key brings up the shortcut menu for the selected
item. This is the same menu that appears when you right-click
while pointing at the selected item.

This key combination Does this

Windows key+E Runs Windows Explorer
Windows key+F1 Runs Windows Help
Windows key+F Runs Windows Find: Search
Windows key+M Minimizes all displayed windows
Shift+Windows key+M Returns all minimized windows to

Windows key+R Runs the Windows Run dialog box

2–8 HP Manual Title

original size

Basic Operation

To Type Alternate Graphics Using the ALT GR Key

Non-U.S. keyboards have an ALT GR key to the right of the
spacebar and keys on the keyboard that show International
characters. These special characters appear on the lower-right
corner of some keys on the keyboard. For example:

1
2

1

2

3

Shifted

Unshifted

ALT GR

3

» To type an ALT GR character, press and hold the ALT GR key,

then press the key containing the ALT GR character you want
to display.

If your keyboard does not have an ALT GR key, you can use the

✎

ALT key instead of the ALT GR key to get the same result.

HP Manual Title 2–9

Basic Operation

Using CDs or DVDs

To Insert or Remove a CD or DVD

CAUTION: Do not remove a CD or DVD while the notebook is reading

it, or the notebook could stop responding and you could lose data. To

Ä

avoid damage to the disk or drive, be sure to press the CD or DVD firmly
onto the spindle.

The location of the CD or DVD drive varies by model.

✎

1. Press the button on the face of the CD or DVD drive. If you
are using this drive for the first time, be sure to remove the
cardboard packing insert if present.

2. Press the CD or DVD gently but firmly onto the spindle (label
facing up).

-or­Remove the CD or DVD.

3. Slide the tray back into the module to close it.

If your notebook loses power, you can manually open the drive to

✎

remove a CD. Insert a straightened paper clip into the recessed
hole on the front of the drive to open it.

2–10 HP Manual Title

To Play DVD Movies

If your notebook is equipped with a DVD or other DVD readable
drive, it also includes DVD player software that lets you play
DVD movies.

» Select Start > All Programs > Multimedia > DVD Player >

InterVideo WinDVD.

For best performance while playing movies on battery power, set

✎

the Control Panel Power Scheme to Portable/Laptop.

DVDs can have regional codes embedded in the disc data. These

✎

codes prevent DVD movies from being played outside the region
of the world in which they are sold. If you get a region code error,
you are trying to play a DVD intended for a different region.

Most DVD drives let you change the region code only a limited
number of times (usually no more than 4). When you reach this
limit, your last change to the region code will be hard-coded on
the DVD drive and will be permanent. Your warranty does not
cover the expense of correcting this situation. Refer to the
Help for your DVD player software for details about setting
region codes.

Basic Operation

HP Manual Title 2–11

Basic Operation

To Write to DVD Media (Select Models Only)

If your notebook is equipped with a DVD+RW/R and CD-RW
Combo Drive, you must install your DVD burning software from
the CDs included with your notebook before you can write to
DVD media.

When writing to DVD+R or DVD+RW media, observe the
following guidelines:

■ Place the notebook on a flat, stable surface.

■ Ensure that the AC adapter is connected to the notebook and

an AC electrical outlet.

■ Close and exit all other software applications, except the CD

burning software (when writing a data disc) or DVD burning
software (when writing a video disc).

To Create or Copy CDs

If your notebook is equipped with a DVD/CD-RW Combo drive,
it also includes CD software that lets you copy or create CDs.
Follow the instructions that are included with the software. Read
and write quality may vary by media.

2–12 HP Manual Title

Securing Your Notebook

To Set Up Password Protection

You can protect your notebook from access by another user when
you set up password protection, which is available through
Windows and through the BIOS Setup utility. See “Configuring

Your Notebook” in the “Troubleshooting” chapter. For complete

protection, set passwords in Windows as well as through BIOS
Setup.

To cancel password protection, set an empty password.
Windows

1. Select Start > Control Panel > User Accounts, then select
your account.

2. Select Create a Password, then set the password.

3. Select Start > Control Panel > Performance and
Maintenance > Power Options.

4. On the Advanced tab, select the option to prompt for a
password when the notebook leaves Standby.

Basic Operation

To Lock Your Notebook

To protect against unauthorized access while your notebook is
running, lock the notebook before leaving it unattended, or set up
a screen saver with a Windows password. You can lock the
notebook these ways:

■ If a One-Touch button is assigned to Quick Lock, press that

button.

-or-

■ Press ctrl+alt+del, then select Lock Computer.

To unlock the notebook, follow your normal logon steps.

HP Manual Title 2–13

Basic Operation

To Attach an Optional Security Cable

Your notebook includes a built-in connector to secure the
notebook with a cable and a lock (such as the Kensington
MicroSaver lock system, available at many computer stores).

1. Wrap the cable around a secure object.

2. Insert the cable into the security cable slot on the notebook.

3. Lock it with the cable lock key, then store the key in a safe
place away from the notebook.

To Protect Against Viruses

Virus-protection software can help protect the integrity of your
data. This is especially important if you use the Web.

Your notebook comes equipped with Norton AntiVirus software.
Because new viruses appear frequently, you will also want to

keep the program virus definitions up to date. Norton AntiVirus
updates are on the Web at
get detailed instructions from the program’s online Help.

2–14 HP Manual Title

http://www.symantec.com. You can also

To Lock the Hard Drive

The notebook enables you to lock its internal hard drive to help
keep your information secure.

CAUTION: When you enable the hard drive lock, the current BIOS user
password (or administrator password if that is the only password set) is

Ä

encoded on the hard drive. If you move the hard drive to another
notebook, you cannot access the drive until you set the user (or
administrator) password to match the drive password. After you match

the drive password, you can change the notebook (and drive) password.
If you forget the password, you cannot recover your data.

1. Select Start > Turn Off Computer > Restart.

2. When the logo screen appears, press
Setup utility.

3. From the Security menu, enable Password Required to Boot.

4. From the Security menu, enable Internal hard drive lock.

5. Press

F10 to save and exit BIOS Setup.

Basic Operation

F2 to enter the BIOS

Taking Care of Your Notebook

Follow these recommendations to maintain your notebook during
everyday use and prevent potential physical damage or data loss.

To Protect Your Hard Drive

Hard drives, as well as other internal components, are not
indestructible and can be damaged by inappropriate handling and
operation.

■ Avoid bumps or jolts.

■ Do not operate the notebook while traveling over bumpy

terrain.

HP Manual Title 2–15

Basic Operation

■ Put the notebook in Standby or shut it down before

transporting it. This turns off the hard drive. A drop of a few
inches onto a rigid surface while the hard drive is operating
could destroy data or damage the drive.

■ Carry the notebook in a padded case to protect against bumps

and jolts.

■ Set down the notebook gently.

To Maintain Your Notebook

■ Provide adequate ventilation around the notebook. Always

set the notebook on a flat surface, so that air can flow freely
around and underneath it.

■ Always shut down the notebook or put it in Hibernation mode

before putting it in a carrying case or other enclosed space.

■ Do not pick up or carry the notebook by its display.

■ Do not use the notebook outside in the rain or snow

(inclement weather). If the notebook is cold, warm it
gradually to avoid condensation.

■ Maintain your battery pack for best performance. See the

“Battery Packs and Power Management” chapter.

To Safeguard Your Data

■ Do not use a pointing device or activate any other device that

interrupts operation while the system is starting or stopping.

■ Back up your work regularly. Copy files to diskettes, CDs,

DVDs, and other media, or network drives.

■ Use a virus-scanning program (such as the Norton AntiVirus

program included with your notebook) to check your files
and operating system.

■ Check your disk using the Tools tab in the disk Properties

window.

2–16 HP Manual Title

To Extend the Life of the Display

■ Set the display brightness to the lowest comfortable level

Fn+F1).

(

■ When working at your desk, connect an external monitor and

turn off the internal display (press the optional TV Now!
One-Touch button at the top of the keyboard).

■ If you are not using an external monitor, set the Turn off

monitor timeouts (for both AC and battery pack operation)
to the shortest comfortable interval.

■ Avoid using a screen saver or other software that prevents the

notebook from changing to Display-off or Standby mode
after a timeout period. If you use a screen saver, enable the
option to shut off the display after a time delay.

■ Do not disable Display-off or Standby timeouts.

■ If you are using AC power and have no external monitor

attached, put the notebook in Standby mode when not in use.

To Clean Your Notebook

Basic Operation

■ You can clean the notebook with a soft cloth dampened with

clean water or with water containing a mild detergent. Do not
use an excessively wet cloth, and take care to keep water out
of the case.

■ Do not use abrasive cleaners, especially on the display. Do

not apply any cleaner directly to the display. Instead, apply
the cleaner to a soft cloth, then gently wipe the display.

HP Manual Title 2–17

Battery Packs and Power

Management

Managing Power Consumption

When you are running your notebook on battery power, you can
maximize operating time without compromising performance.
Your notebook is designed to help you reduce power
consumption and extend battery life.

During idle periods, the notebook automatically enters
power-saving modes after specified timeout periods. You can
adjust these timeouts to suit your working habits.

3

Reference Guide 3–1

Battery Packs and Power Management

How the Notebook Manages Power Automatically

Your notebook enters Hibernation and Standby automatically, and
turns off the hard drive and display based on values set in
Windows.

When this occurs The result is To resume

No keyboard, pointing
device, or other input
activity occurs for the
specified interval

The hard drive is not
accessed for a specified
interval

No pointing devices are
used, no disk drive is
accessed, and no port
(serial, parallel, or infrared)
is active for the specified
interval

The notebook stays in
Standby for the specified
interval

CAUTION: Make a habit of saving your work before allowing your
notebook to enter Standby. If power is interrupted while the notebook is

Ä

in Standby, any information that was not saved will be lost.

The notebook can also enter Hibernation if battery power reaches
a critically low level. If this happens, you will find on resuming
that all your data has been saved, but some functions may be
disabled. To resume normal operation, restore power by
connecting an AC adapter or installing a charged battery pack,
then shut the notebook off and restart it.

Display turns off.

Turns off the display to
conserve battery power
and extend the life of the
display.

Hard drive turns off.

This is usually set to occur
shortly after the display is
turned off.

Standby is initiated.

Maintains your current
session in RAM, and turns
off the display and other
components to conserve
battery power.

Hibernation is initiated.

Saves your current
session to the hard drive,
and turns off the notebook.

Briefly press any key
or move a pointing
device to turn on the
display.

Begin using the
notebook, and the
hard drive turns on.

Briefly press the
power button to
return to your
current session.

Press the power
button to return to
your previous
session.

3–2 Reference Guide

Battery Packs and Power Management

To Change Timeout Settings and Create Power Schemes

You can adjust the length of timeouts after which your notebook
automatically shuts down components or enters a power-saving
mode. You can also save these settings as a power scheme.

1. Select Start > Control Panel > Performance and
Maintenance

2. Select the Power Schemes tab, then enter the settings you
want. If you do not want a particular timeout to occur, set the
value to Never. See Windows Help for details.

If you want to save the settings as a power scheme, select
Save As and enter a name for the scheme.

CAUTION: Do not disable Hibernate support in the Power Options

Ä

settings or you will lose any unsaved data if the battery pack runs down
completely.

> Power Options.

Using Battery Power

To Check Battery Status

From the battery status light

» Check the battery status light on the notebook.

From the Windows taskbar

The Windows taskbar can display a power icon that provides
detailed battery status information (see Windows Help for
details). The icon resembles a battery when a battery pack is the
notebook’s sole source of power.

■ Place the pointer over the power icon to display the

remaining battery charge. This value is shown as either a
percentage of charge remaining or as time remaining.

■ Select the power icon to open the Battery Meter window.

Reference Guide 3–3

Battery Packs and Power Management

From the Windows Control Panel

» Select Start > Control Panel > Performance and

Maintenance
tab to see the battery status. The Alarms and Advanced tabs
provide additional power information options.

On the battery pack

1. Remove the battery pack from the notebook. See the “Getting

Started with Your Notebook” chapter in this guide.

2. Press the contact pad on the side of the battery pack. The
number of lights that turn on indicates the remaining charge
(each light represents 20 percent of a full charge).

> Power Options, then select the Power Meter

To Respond to a Low-Battery Warning

The notebook automatically alerts you when the battery power
drops to a critically low level. The notebook first emits a
high-pitched beep or displays a warning message. Then, if you

not restore power within a short time, the notebook goes into

do
Hibernation.

After the notebook enters Hibernation in this way, you will not be
able to turn it on again until you restore power by doing one of the
following procedures:

■ Replace the battery pack with a charged one.

■ Plug in the AC adapter.

If you plug in the AC adapter, you can continue to work while

✎

your battery pack recharges.

3–4 Reference Guide

Battery Packs and Power Management

To Recharge the Battery Pack

CAUTION: The AC adapter is normally warm when plugged into an

AC outlet. The notebook is normally warm while recharging. Do not

Ä

recharge the notebook in a briefcase or other confined space, or the
battery pack could overheat.

» Plug the AC adapter into the notebook.

Charging can take several hours. If you continue working while
the battery pack charges, the charging time may increase.

The operating time for a fully charged battery pack depends

the notebook model, power management settings, and level

on

use.

of

To Get the Most from Your Battery Packs

Follow these suggestions to make your battery power last as long
as possible:

■ Plug in the AC adapter, especially when using a CD-ROM

DVD-ROM drive, or any external connections such as a

or
PC Card or

a modem.

■ Set the display brightness to the lowest comfortable level

Fn+F1).

(

■ Put the notebook in Standby when you will not be using it for

a short while.

■ Put the notebook in Hibernation whenever you want to save

your current session but will not be using the notebook for

day or more.

a

■ Set the automatic timeout settings to emphasize saving

power. If your notebook has a multispeed processor, use the
lower speed on battery power (the default settings conserve
battery power).

Reference Guide 3–5

Battery Packs and Power Management

■ If your notebook has a wireless on-off button, turn off

wireless function when you are not using it. Press the

the
wireless on-off button to turn off the light.

■ If you have a PC Card, such as a network card, remove it

when you are not using it. Some PC Cards use significant
power even while they are inactive.

■ If you work with an application that uses the serial port or a

PC Card, exit the application when you finish using it.

In addition, follow these suggestions to extend the life of your
battery packs:

■ Do not leave battery packs unused for long periods. If you

have more than one, rotate them.

■ Unplug the AC adapter when the notebook is not in use.

■ If the notebook will be unused and unplugged for more than

2

weeks, remove and store the battery pack.

CAUTION: To prevent damage to the battery pack, do not expose it to

Ä

high temperatures for extended periods of time.

■ High temperatures accelerate the self-discharge rate of a

stored battery pack. To prolong the charge of a stored battery
pack, place it in a cool, dry location.

■ To maintain the accuracy of battery charge displays, calibrate

a battery pack that has been stored for one month or more
before using it.

■ Avoid using or charging battery packs at high temperatures.

3–6 Reference Guide

Battery Packs and Power Management

Disposing of a Used Battery Pack

WARNING: There is a risk of fire and chemical burn if a battery pack

Å

is handled improperly. Do not disassemble, crush, or puncture a battery
pack or short the contacts on a battery pack. Do not expose a battery
pack to temperatures higher than 60°C (140°F) or dispose of a battery
pack in water or fire.

When a battery pack has reached the end of its useful life, do not
dispose of it in general household waste.

■ In Europe, dispose of or recycle battery packs by using the

public collection system or by returning them to HP, your
service partner, or their agents.

■ In other regions, refer to the Worldwide Telephone Numbers

booklet, included with the notebook, to contact HP and
request information about battery pack disposal.

For more information about battery pack precautions and disposal
and the complete text of governmental agency notices, refer to the
Regulatory and Safety Notices guide on the Documentation CD.

Reference Guide 3–7

Modem and Network

Using the Modem

You can connect your modem to a telephone line and
communicate throughout the world. You can explore the Internet,
send and receive e-mail messages, and use your notebook to send
and receive faxes. Your notebook contains several software
programs that work with your modem:

■ Internet Explorer, for browsing the World Wide Web

■ Outlook Express, for sending and receiving e-mail messages

■ Windows Fax Console, for sending and receiving faxes

For best performance, you can connect to any Internet Service
Provider (ISP) or modem network that has V.90 or V.92
interoperable modems. Check with your ISP for a list of
telephone numbers that support V.90 or V.92. (V.92 enables
modem on-hold technology that allows an Internet session to be
interrupted to answer a phone call, then resumes the Internet
session after the call is complete.)

4

Connections

The maximum speed for faxing is 14.4 Kbps, even though the
modem is capable of downloading at higher speeds.

Reference Guide 4–1

Modem and Network Connections

To Connect the Modem

CAUTION: Your built-in modem may not work with multiple phone

lines or a private branch exchange (PBX), cannot be connected to a

Ä

coin-operated telephone, and does not work with party lines. Some of
these connections may result in excess electrical voltage and could
cause a malfunction in the internal modem. Check your telephone line
type prior to connecting your phone line.

4–2 Reference Guide

Modem and Network Connections

Special Restrictions in Certain Countries

■ Many countries impose a blackout period after a modem

repeatedly fails to connect to a service provider. The number
of failed attempts and the period you must wait before trying
again differ from country to country. Check with your
telephone company.

For example, if you are dialing from Italy and fail to connect
to your server or cancel the connection, you must wait
1 minute before dialing that number again. If you dial before
then, you will get the message “delay.” After the fourth failed
connection, you must wait 1 hour before trying the number
again. If you dial before the hour is up, you will get the
message “black list.”

■ When using a modem, an external surge protector can prevent

notebook damage by lightning or other electrical surges.
Connect any approved surge protector to the modem cable
whenever you are using the modem.

Reference Guide 4–3

Modem and Network Connections

To Change Your Modem Settings

The modem is already set up to be compatible with telephone
systems and modems in most areas. However, in some situations,
you may have to change modem settings to match local
conditions. If you have questions about local requirements,
contact your telephone company.

■ Control Panel. Open Phone and Modem Options in Control

Panel to change many modem settings. On the Modems tab,
select Properties to set connection speeds, or on the Dialing
Rules tab, select Edit to set dialing options.

■ Communications software. Many communications

applications provide options for controlling modem settings.
See the Help for your software.

■ AT commands. You can control many aspects of modem

operation using modem AT commands. AT commands are
special strings of characters sent to the modem to set up
specific conditions. Those command strings normally start

“AT.” For a list of AT commands for the built-in modem,

with
see the Documentation CD.

Open Phone and Modem Options in Control Panel. On the
Modems tab, select Properties. You can type AT commands
on the Advanced tab in the space for extra settings.

4–4 Reference Guide

Modem and Network Connections

Connecting to a Local Area Network (LAN)

You can connect to local area networks (LANs). LANs give you
access to network resources, such as printers and file servers on
your corporate network, and possibly to the Internet.

To connect to a LAN:

1. Check that the existing LAN supports Ethernet 10Base-T
(10 Mbps) or 100Base TX (100 Mbps) connections.

2. Plug the LAN cable (not supplied) into the built-in LAN port.
The cable must have an RJ-45 connector.

3. Windows automatically detects and sets up a LAN
connection. To edit settings, open Network and Dial-up
Connections in Control Panel.

See Windows Help for information about setting up and using
LAN connections. Select Start > Help and Support. Contact your
network administrator for network information.

Two lights at the LAN port indicate the connection status:

■ The yellow light indicates network activity.

■ The green light indicates a 100 Mbps link.

Reference Guide 4–5

Modem and Network Connections

Making Wireless Network Connections (Select Models Only)

If your notebook includes a wireless on-off button, you can
connect by radio to an 802.11 wireless local area network
(WLAN) and access computers and other resources on the
network.

A wireless network provides all the functions of a typical “wired”
network, but also provides for “roaming.” Since your notebook
connects to the network by radio rather than through cables, you
can move from place to place within the network—from your
office to a conference room, for example—and remain on the
network the entire time.

WARNING: Exposure to Radio Frequency Radiation.

Å

The radiated output power of this device is below the FCC radio
frequency exposure limits. Nevertheless, the device should be used in
such a manner that the potential for human contact during normal
operation is minimized. To avoid the possibility of exceeding the FCC
radio frequency exposure limits, human proximity to the antenna should
not be less than 20 cm (8 inches) during normal operation, including

when the notebook display is closed.

4–6 Reference Guide

Modem and Network Connections

To Turn Wireless Communication On and Off

For instructions to enable WLAN communications, refer to
the Go Wireless booklet included with your notebook (select
models only).

Wireless networks and cellular modems are examples of devices

✎

that use wireless communication. Such devices may be restricted
in some situations or environments, such as when traveling in an
airplane. If in doubt, be sure to ask for authorization before
turning on your notebook wireless networking.

In Italy, Singapore, and possibly other countries, you may be
required to purchase a license before using the wireless function.

Turning On Communication and Making a Connection

If your notebook has wireless 802.11 capabilities, the wireless
indicator light on the front of the notebook turns on when 802.11
communication is turned on. You must use the Wireless
Configuration software to control the individual wireless
functions.

1. If the notebook is not on, turn it on.

2. If you normally press the wireless on-off button on the front
of the notebook to turn wireless 802.11 communication on
and off, press the button so the indicator light turns on. This
restores your previous wireless configuration.

-or­Select Start > Control Panel > Network and Internet

Connections > Network Connections, then select the wireless
network connection icon.

If you are within range of your wireless network, your notebook
automatically connects. To check the status of your wireless
connection, open Network Connections in Control Panel, then
select the connection.

Reference Guide 4–7

Modem and Network Connections

Turning Off Communication and Ending a Connection

1. Close any files that reside on other network notebooks.

2. To turn off the wireless 802.11 communication without
turning off the notebook, press the wireless on-off button.

-or­Right-click the wireless network connection icon in the

taskbar, then select Disable.

Putting the notebook in Standby or shutting it down also turns off
the wireless function.

4–8 Reference Guide

Add-On Devices

Connecting External Devices

To Insert or Remove a PC Card

The notebook PC Card slot supports standard Type II and Type III
PC Cards (PCMCIA and CardBus).

The location and number of the PC Card slots vary by model

✎

series.

Inserting a PC Card

1. Hold the PC Card label side up and its connectors facing the
card slot.

2. Aligning the PC Card along the bottom of the slot, slide the
PC Card until it is seated. Most cards are properly seated
when the outer edge is flush with the casing of the notebook,
but some cards are designed to protrude from the case.

5

Reference Guide 5–1

Add-On Devices

Removing a PC Card

CAUTION: Before removing a PC Card, you must use the Eject

Hardware or Safely Remove Hardware icon in the taskbar, or shut down

Ä

the notebook. Otherwise, you could lose data.

1. Select the Eject Hardware or Safely Remove Hardware icon
in the taskbar, select the card you want to remove, then
remove the card. This protects your data and helps avoid
unexpected problems.

If needed, you can restart the card by reinserting it.

2. Press the eject button to extend the button, then press the
button again to eject the PC Card.

Before you connect any device, check its documentation to see if

✎

you need to make any settings or adjustments to the equipment
before using it. This might include setting switches to configure
the equipment so that it will operate properly with your notebook
and the software you plan to use.

5–2 Reference Guide

To Connect an Audio Device

You can plug in an external microphone, external speakers, or
headphones.

CAUTION: The headphone and line-in jacks are three-terminal stereo
jacks. They are not compatible with two-terminal mono plugs.

Ä

Connecting a mono plug into either of these jacks may damage the
notebook.

» Attach the audio cable to the corresponding audio port on the

notebook.Match your notebook to one of the following
illustrations and locate the audio ports on your notebook.

Add-On Devices

External microphone connector (pink)

1

Audio out (headphones) connector (green)

2

When you plug a device into the headphone port, the built in

✎

speakers automatically turn off.

Reference Guide 5–3

Add-On Devices

To Connect a TV to Your Notebook (Select Models Only)

1. Plug a standard 4-pin S-Video cable to the optional S-Video
out jack on your notebook (yellow connector on the back
panel). Plug the other end of the cable to the S-Video in jack
on your television.

Although your notebook may have a 7-pin S-Video out jack, the

✎

notebook accepts either a 7-pin or 4-pin cable connection.

2. Select Start > Control Panel > Appearance and Themes >
Display. Then, select the Settings tab > Advanced button >
Display tab.

3. To enable the TV, select the red button next to TV.

If the S-Video cable is not plugged into your notebook and TV,

✎

the red button will not be displayed.

4. Select Apply to accept the changes.

5. If you are prompted to restart Windows, select Yes.

5–4 Reference Guide

Add-On Devices

Switching the Display to the External Monitor (Select Models Only)

Press the TV Now! One-Touch button which is identified with a
TV icon, at the top of your keyboard to switch the display to
the TV-Out mode. If a TV is not connected to the notebook,
your default media application will launch.

Adjusting Monitor Resolution and Other Settings

1. Select Start > Control Panel > Appearance and Themes >
Display.

2. On the Settings tab, adjust the Screen area. Other settings are
also available.

If you need to increase the refresh rate on the external monitor,
you can switch to only the external monitor. An alternative is to
make one display a “secondary” display so you can select
independent refresh rates:

1. Select Start > Control Panel > Appearance and Themes >
Display.

2. On the Settings tab, select the Advanced button, then
the Display or Monitor tab. Set the refresh rate on the
Monitor tab.

Reference Guide 5–5

Add-On Devices

Using Dual Display Mode

You can extend your desktop by connecting an external monitor
to your notebook.

1. Select Start > Control Panel > Appearance and Themes >
Display.

2. Select the Settings tab.

3. Select the second display, then select the option to extend the
desktop.

You can set different resolutions and numbers of colors for each
display. However, using the Extended Desktop requires video
memory for each display. For this reason, higher resolutions and
higher numbers of colors may cause unexpected behavior on the
displays. Try starting with 1024 × 768 resolution on the external
display and 64 K colors (16-bit) on both displays. You can then
try higher settings to see whether they work for your applications.
In addition, certain operations such as playing DVDs and running
3D graphics require extra video memory, so you may have to
adjust display settings.

If you play a DVD movie, the movie will show only on the
primary display. To change the primary display, go to the Settings
tab of Display Properties (see the steps above), right-click the
display you want, and select Primary.

5–6 Reference Guide

To Connect a 1394 Device (Select Models Only)

If your notebook has a 1394 port (also known as firewire), you
can use it to connect devices such as audio and video equipment,
disk drives, printers, and other notebooks.

Attach the device cable to the 1394 port. Windows automatically
recognizes the device.

The 1394 port is a 4-wire port. If you want to connect a device
that has a 6-wire plug, you can purchase a simple adapter if the
device is unpowered, or a hub if the device requires power.

If you have problems making this connection, go to the device

✎

manufacturer Web site for the latest version of the driver for the
device.

To Connect an Infrared Device (Select Models Only)

Add-On Devices

Select models include an infrared port. By default, the infrared

✎

port is enabled.

If your model has an infrared port (a small, rectangular lens
located on the front of the notebook), then your notebook has
wireless serial communication capability. That is, your notebook
and other infrared devices, such as printers or other notebooks,
can communicate wirelessly using this port.

Reference Guide 5–7

Add-On Devices

Using the Infrared Port

■ Make sure the infrared port of your notebook and the infrared

port of the device with which you want to communicate are
positioned in a straight line facing each other. The 2 ports
should be no more than 3.3 feet (1 meter) apart with no
obstructions in between. Noise from nearby equipment can
cause transmission errors.

■ To check the status of communications, open Wireless Link

by selecting Start > Control Panel > Printers & Other
Hardware > Wireless Link.

Avoiding Standby While Using Infrared

Standby is not compatible with infrared transmission.
If the notebook is in Standby, an infrared transmission cannot be

initiated.
If Standby is initiated during an infrared transmission, the

transmission stops. The transmission should resume when the
notebook exits Standby, or you may need to resend the infrared
transmission. To exit Standby, briefly press the power button.

Printing to an Infrared Printer

Install your printer and assign it to the notebook infrared port.
You can then print from your applications as you would to any
other printer.

Transferring Files Through an Infrared Connection

You can use your notebook infrared port to transfer files by using
Wireless Link. See the Windows online Help for instructions on
using Wireless Link.

5–8 Reference Guide

Add-On Devices

Installing Additional RAM (Memory)

The notebook has 2 slots that hold 2 RAM modules. At least
1 slot contains a RAM module installed at the factory. You can
use both slots to expand your RAM.

To Install a RAM Expansion Module

Use only PC2100 DDR-266 MHz or higher RAM.
You will need a small Phillips screwdriver for these steps.

CAUTION: The internal components of your notebook are extremely

Ä

sensitive to static electricity and can be permanently damaged by it.
Handle the RAM module only by its edges. Before installing the memory
module, discharge static electricity by touching the metal shielding
around the connectors on the back of the notebook.

1. Select Start > Turn Off Computer > Turn Off.

2. Unplug the AC adapter, if present, then remove the
battery pack.

3. Turn the unit bottom-side up, loosen the screws holding the
RAM cover, then remove the cover.

Reference Guide 5–9

Add-On Devices

4. Insert the RAM board into the connector at about a 30-degree
angle until it is fully inserted. Then press down at both sides
until both latches snap closed.

5. Replace the cover.

6. Insert the battery pack.

To Remove a RAM Expansion Module

You may want to remove a RAM module so you can install a
larger one. You will need a small Phillips screwdriver for these
steps.

CAUTION: Your notebook internal components are extremely sensitive

Ä

to static electricity and can be permanently damaged by it. Handle the
RAM module only by its edges. Before installing the memory module,
discharge static electricity by touching the metal shielding around the
connectors on the back of the notebook.

1. Select Start > Turn Off Computer > Turn Off.

2. Unplug the AC adapter, if present, then remove the
battery pack.

3. Turn the unit bottom-side up, loosen the screws holding the
RAM cover, then remove the cover.

5–10 Reference Guide

Add-On Devices

4. Release the 2 latches at the sides of the RAM board, so the
free edge of the board pops up. Match your notebook to the
following illustration.

5. Pull the board out of the connector.

6. Replace the cover.

7. Insert the battery pack.

Reference Guide 5–11

Add-On Devices

Replacing the Hard Drive

To Replace the Hard Drive

You will need a small Phillips screwdriver for this procedure.

1. Unplug the AC adapter, if connected.

2. Remove the battery pack.

3. Turn the unit bottom side up.

4. Use a pointed tool to remove the plugs from the 2 or 3 screw
holes, then remove the screws. The number of screws varies
by model. Match your notebook to the following illustration.

5. Gently pull the hard drive out of the notebook.

6. Gently slide the new drive into the hard drive compartment.
Press firmly to make sure the connector seats properly.

7. Reinstall the hard drive screws and plugs.

If you are installing a new hard drive, you should create a Utility

✎

partition on the drive before loading any software.

5–12 Reference Guide

To Replace the Hard Drive Holder

If you are installing a new hard drive that does not have a holder,
you can remove the holder parts from the hard drive you are
removing. You will need a small Phillips screwdriver for this
procedure.

1. Remove the 4 screws from the sides of the holder and drive
case, then slide the drive out of the holder.

2. Notice that the hard drive has a pin connector attachment at
one end. Carefully remove this connector from the end of the
drive. Work alternately at each end so that the connector
slides off evenly without bending the connector pins.

Add-On Devices

3. Carefully put the pin connector attachment back onto the pins
on the end of the new hard drive. Work alternately at each end
so that the connector slides on evenly without bending the
connector pins.

4. Insert the drive into the holder.

5. Reinstall the screws into the holder and drive case.

Reference Guide 5–13

Add-On Devices

To Prepare a New Hard Drive

When you install a new hard drive, you also need to prepare it to
be able to work with your notebook.

If you want to restore the Windows software and operating
system that were originally installed on your notebook, follow the
system recovery procedures described in the “Troubleshooting”
chapter of this guide.

5–14 Reference Guide

Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting Your Notebook

This chapter contains solutions to many types of problems you
might have with your notebook. Try the solutions one at a time, in
the order in which they are presented.

Here are some other sources of information for troubleshooting:

■ Use the Windows troubleshooters. Select Start > Help and

Support.

■ Select the question mark One-Touch key located at the top of

the keyboard.

■ See the Microsoft Windows manual shipped with the

notebook.

■ Refer to the Worldwide Telephone Numbers booklet to

contact a Customer Care Center for help and support.

6

Reference Guide 6–1

Troubleshooting

Audio Problems

If No Sound is Audible

■ If your model has a volume control, press the + (plus) button

to increase the volume.

■ Select the speaker icon on the taskbar (if present). Clear the

Mute all check box if selected. If your model has an audio
mute button, press it so the indicator light goes off.

■ When you are operating your notebook in MS-DOS mode

(for example, when running MS-DOS games), you may find
that the sound does not operate properly. Use Windows
applications for full use of sound capabilities.

If Sound Does Not Record

■ Plug in an external microphone. The notebook does not have

a built-in microphone.

■ Check the software controls for recording sound. Select

> All Programs > Accessories > Multimedia (or

Start
Entertainment) > Sound Recorder.

■ In Volume Control, select Option > Properties, and make sure

the microphone is enabled in the recording controls.

If You Hear Loud, High-Pitched Feedback from the Speakers

■ In the Volume Control, try reducing the Master volume by

selecting the speaker icon in the taskbar.

■ In Volume Control, select Options > Properties, then select

the microphone option for the playback settings. Also in
Volume Control, make sure the microphone is muted.

6–2 Reference Guide

Troubleshooting

CD-ROM and DVD Problems

If You Cannot Boot from a CD or DVD

■ Make sure the CD or DVD is bootable.

■ Make sure the CD-ROM/DVD drive is selected as the boot

device. See the
change the boot sequence.

■ Restart the notebook. Select Start > Turn Off Computer >

Restart.

If a DVD Plays Erratically

■ Dirt or smudges can cause a disc to skip. Clean the disc with

a soft cloth. If the disc is badly scratched, it will probably
have to be replaced.

■ If you are playing the DVD on battery power, try changing

the power scheme.

If You Get a Region Code Error When Playing a DVD Movie

“Basic Operation” chapter in this guide to

DVDs can have regional codes embedded in the disc data. These
codes prevent DVD movies from being played outside the region
of the world in which they are sold. If you get a Region Code
error, you are trying to play a DVD intended for a different
region.

If the Notebook Cannot Read a CD or DVD

■ For a single-sided CD or DVD, make sure the disc is placed

in the drive with the label facing up.

■ Clean the disc.

■ Wait 5 to 10 seconds after closing the tray to give the

notebook time to recognize the disc.

Reference Guide 6–3

Troubleshooting

■ Restart the system: remove the disc from the drive, and select

Start > Turn Off Computer > Restart.

■ If you created the CD on a DVD/CD-RW combo-type drive,

try using a different media brand. Read and write quality may
vary for media.

If a DVD Movie Does Not Fill the Screen

Each side of a double-sided DVD has a different format (standard
or widescreen). In widescreen format, black bands appear at the
top and bottom of the screen. To view the standard format, flip

disc over and play the other side.

the

If a DVD Does Not Play with Two Displays

If you are using the Extended Desktop (dual displays), move the
player window to the display selected as primary. If you are not
using Extended Desktop and both displays are active, press the
TV Now! One-Touch button at the top of the keyboard to switch
to one display.

If the Notebook Cannot Find Wordpad.exe After Inserting a CD

The system is trying to open a .doc file in WordPad, but cannot
find the Wordpad.exe program file. The system displays an error
message asking for the path. In the dialog box, type

C:\Program Files\Accessories.

Display Problems

If the Notebook Is On, But the Screen Is Blank

■ Move the mouse or tap the TouchPad. This will wake the

display if it is in Display-off mode.

■ If the notebook is cold, allow it to warm up.

6–4 Reference Guide

If the Screen Is Difficult to Read

■ Try setting the display resolution to its default setting of

× 768 or higher, depending on your model. Select

1024

> Control Panel > Appearance and Themes > Display.

Start

■ Try adjusting the size of the desktop icons and labels.

If an External Display Does Not Work

■ Check the connections.

■ The external monitor may not be detected. In the BIOS Setup

utility, try setting Video Display Device to Both in the System
Devices menu.

■ If you are using a TV connected to the optional S-Video port,

you must activate the TV.

Hard Drive Problems

If the Notebook Hard Drive Does Not Spin

Troubleshooting

■ Make sure the notebook has power. If necessary, connect the

AC adapter, and make sure it is fully plugged into a power
source and into the back of the notebook.

■ Remove and reinsert the hard drive.

If the Hard Disk Makes a Buzzing or Whining Noise

■ See whether the noise is coming from elsewhere, such as

from the fan or a PC Card drive.

■ Back up the drive immediately.

Reference Guide 6–5

Troubleshooting

If Files Are Corrupted

■ Open My Computer, and the disk you want to scan. Select

File > Properties. Select the Check Now box under the
Error-checking section of the Tools tab.

■ Run the virus-scanning program.

■ If necessary, you can format the hard disk and reinstall the

original factory software using the system recovery features
described in the

“Troubleshooting” chapter of this guide.

Heat Problems

Your notebook normally gets warm during routine operation.

If the Notebook Gets Abnormally Hot

■ Always set the notebook on a flat surface, so that air can flow

freely around and underneath it.

■ Make sure the air vents on the bottom and sides of the

notebook are clear.

■ Keep in mind that games and other programs that drive CPU

usage toward 100 percent can increase the notebook
temperature.

6–6 Reference Guide

Infrared Problems

By default, the optional infrared port is enabled, so you must
enable it before you can use it.

If You Have Problems with Infrared Communications

■ Make sure the line of sight between the 2 infrared ports is not

blocked, and that the ports face each other as squarely as
possible. (The notebook infrared port is located on the front
of the notebook.) The ports should be no more than 1 meter
apart.

■ Check settings in the Device Manager:

1. Select Start > Control Panel > Performance and

Maintenance > System.

2. On the Hardware tab, select Device Manager and expand

the infrared devices. Select the infrared port and make
sure that the device is enabled.

■ Make sure only one application is using the infrared port.

Troubleshooting

Keyboard and Pointing Device Problems

Use these suggestions for built-in or external devices.

✎

If the Pointer Is Difficult to Control

Adjust the pointer controls. Select Start > Control Panel >
Printers and Other Hardware > Mouse.

Reference Guide 6–7

Troubleshooting

If the TouchPad Does Not Work

■ Press the TouchPad on-off button to turn on the light.

■ Do not touch the TouchPad while the notebook is rebooting

or resuming from Standby mode. If this happens, try the
following: press a key on the keyboard to restore normal
operation.

■ If an external mouse is connected, the built-in pointing

devices are normally disabled. You can change this setting
with the BIOS Setup utility. See

“Configuring Your

Notebook” in this chapter.

■ Restart the notebook. Select Start > Turn Off Computer >

Restart.

If the TouchPad Moves the Pointer or Cursor While You Type

Press the TouchPad on-off button to turn off the TouchPad while
you type.

Local Area Network (LAN) Problems

If the Built-In Network Adapter Does Not Connect to the LAN

■ Check all cables and connections. Try connecting at a

different network station, if available.

■ Make sure the LAN cable is Category 3, 4, or 5 for 10Base-T

operation, or Category 5 for 100Base-TX operation.
Maximum cable length is 330 feet (100 meters).

■ Select Start > Help and Support > and use the Networking

troubleshooter.

■ Open the hardware Device Manager. Select Start > Control

Panel > Performance and Maintenance > System. If the
network interface is disabled, try to enable it. If it has a
conflict, try disabling another device.

6–8 Reference Guide

Troubleshooting

If You Cannot Browse the Network Neighborhood or My Network Places

Select Start > Search > Notebooks or People to look for a
notebook.

If You Cannot Log In to Netware Servers

If a Netware server is using IPX/SPX protocol, you may need to
force your frame type to match the server frame type. Check with
your network administrator.

If a Network Connection Responds Slowly

If your network connection uses a proxy server, try enabling the
option for bypassing the proxy server for local addresses. You can
do this in Control Panel under your network connection
properties.

Memory Problems

If a Message Reports You Are Out of Memory

■ Make sure drive C is not running low on free space.

■ If you are having memory problems while running MS-DOS

programs, use the MS-DOS or Application and Software
troubleshooter in Windows Help. Select Start > Help and
Support.

■ The full amount of RAM in your notebook is not available

running applications. A certain amount of RAM is

for

for display memory. The amount of display memory

used

shown in the BIOS Setup utility.

is

If Memory Does Not Increase After Adding RAM

Make sure your notebook is using only PC2100 DDR 266 MHz
or higher memory (RAM) modules.

Reference Guide 6–9

Troubleshooting

If the Notebook Beeps But Does Not Start After Adding RAM

You installed an incompatible type of RAM. Remove the module.

Modem Problems

If the Modem Seems Slow

■ Excess static or noise on a line reduces the overall

transmission speed of the modem connection. If necessary,
contact your telephone company about fixing this type of
problem.

■ If you are dialing internationally, line noise is often a problem

that is difficult or impossible to eliminate.

■ If you have call-waiting, disable it. Your telephone company

can provide instructions. Call-waiting can cause symptoms
similar to static.

■ Eliminate extra connections in the line. If possible, connect

directly to the wall jack.

■ Try another telephone line, preferably one normally used for

a fax machine or modem.

If the Modem Does Not Dial or No Dial Tone Is Detected

■ Check all cables and connections.

■ Connect a standard telephone to the phone line and make sure

the line is working.

■ Make sure someone else is not using the same phone line.

6–10 Reference Guide

■ Try another telephone line, preferably one normally used for

a fax machine or modem.

■ If you are in a foreign country, the dial tone may not be

recognized by the modem. In Control Panel, open Phone

Modem Options. Try disabling the option that waits for

and

dial tone.

a

If the Modem Dials Incorrectly

■ Check the telephone number you entered, including any

digits required for outside access or long distance.

■ In Control Panel, open Phone and Modem Options. Check the

dialing options—look for duplicate digits for outside access
or long distance.

■ Make sure the number you are calling is not busy.

■ If you are in a foreign country, the dial tone may not be

recognized by the modem. In Control Panel, open Phone

Modem Options. Try disabling the option that waits for

and

dial tone.

a

Troubleshooting

■ If you have call-waiting, disable it. Your telephone company

can provide instructions.

If the Modem Dials, But Does Not Connect

■ Make sure you are using an analog telephone line (2, 3, or

wires). You must not use a digital line. In a hotel, ask for

4

data line.

a

■ Try another telephone line, preferably one normally used for

a fax machine or modem.

■ The modem at the other end may have a problem. Try dialing

to a different modem.

Reference Guide 6–11

Troubleshooting

If the Modem Is Not Detected

■ Check the modem setup. In Control Panel, open Phone and

Modem Options. Check the COM port.

■ Open the hardware Device Manager. Select Start > Control

Panel > Performance and Maintenance > System. If the
modem is disabled, try to enable it. If it has a conflict, try
disabling another device.

■ If you are running fax software using fax Class 2, try using

Class 1.

If the Modem Dials, But You Cannot Hear It

■ If your model has an audio mute light, make sure it is turned

off. If it is on, press the audio mute button.

■ Check the speaker volume setting.

■ In Control Panel, open Phone and Modem Options, then

select the modem and select Properties. Check the volume
setting on the General tab.

If the Modem Connects, But Transferred Data Is Bad

■ In Control Panel, open Phone and Modem Options. Make

sure the parity, speed, word length, and stop bits match on
sending and receiving modems.

■ Try a different phone line or dial a different server number.

If the Modem Causes an ERROR Message

A string of AT commands may contain an incorrect command. If
you entered commands as extra settings for the modem in Control
Panel or in your communications software, check the commands.

6–12 Reference Guide

Troubleshooting

If the Modem Does Not Fax

■ If you are using fax Class 2 in the fax software, try using

1.

Class

■ Close any other communications programs.

■ If you are faxing by printing from an application, make sure

you have selected the fax printer.

■ Try turning off power management features temporarily.

If Excessive Line Current Is Detected

Make sure you are using an analog telephone line (2, 3, or

wires). You must not use a digital line. In a hotel, ask for a

4

line.

data

If the Modem Clicks Repeatedly, But Does Not Connect

■ Make sure you are using an analog telephone line (2, 3, or

wires). You must not use a digital line. In a hotel, ask for

4

data line.

a

■ Check all cables and connections.

PC Card (PCMCIA) Problems

If the Notebook Does Not Recognize a PC Card

■ Remove and reinsert the PC Card.

■ Restart the notebook. Select Start > Turn Off Computer >

Restart.

■ Try the card in another notebook to see whether the card

functions properly.

Reference Guide 6–13

Troubleshooting

■ Zoomed Video is not supported.

■ If the card requires an IRQ, make sure one is available. Open

the hardware Device Manager. Select Start > Control Panel >
Performance and Maintenance > System.

If a Network PC Card Stops Communicating Properly

■ The card may have been reset if the notebook entered

Standby or shut off. Exit any applications, then remove and
reinsert the card.

■ Check settings in the Control Panel.

If a PC Card Modem Is Not Working

Disable the internal modem:

1. Open the hardware Device Manager. Select Start > Control
Panel > Performance and Maintenance > System.

2. Select Modem to list the current modem devices.

3. Select the internal modem, then select the option to disable
the modem.

Performance Problems

If the Notebook Pauses or Runs Sluggishly

■ This may be normal Windows behavior. Background

processing can affect response time.

■ Certain background operations (such as a virus-scanning

program) can affect performance.

■ Press ctrl+alt+del and use Task Manager to see if an application

is not responding.

■ Restart the notebook. Select Start > Turn Off Computer >

Restart.

6–14 Reference Guide

■ Some file browsers respond slowly while processing graphics

or waiting for broken network connections to time out.

■ If the notebook hard drive frequently runs (as indicated by

hard drive light on the front of the notebook) while the

the
notebook appears to be paused or running slowly, Windows is
likely spending excess time writing to its swap file on the
notebook hard disk. If this occurs frequently, consider
installing additional memory.

■ Check the amount of available free disk space. Delete

temporary and unneeded files.

If the Notebook Stops Responding

■ Press ctrl+alt+del and use Task Manager to end the application

that is not responding.

■ Press the power button for at least 4 seconds to turn off and

reset the notebook. Unsaved data will be lost. Then press the
power button again to turn the notebook back on.

■ If nothing happens, insert the tip of a paper clip into the

button on the bottom of the notebook. Then press

reset

power button to turn the notebook back on.

the

Troubleshooting

■ To avoid lockup problems, avoid pressing the TV Now!

One-Touch button to switch display devices while
graphic-intensive applications are running. Also avoid
turning the notebook off or putting it into Standby while such
applications are running.

Power and Battery Pack Problems

If the Notebook Turns Off Immediately After It Turns On

Battery power is probably extremely low. Plug in the AC adapter
or insert a charged battery pack.

Reference Guide 6–15

Troubleshooting

If the Notebook Keeps Beeping

The notebook beeps repeatedly or displays a warning when
battery power is low. Save your work, shut down Windows
immediately, and insert a charged battery pack or plug in the

adapter.

AC

If the Battery Pack Does Not Charge

■ Make sure the AC adapter is fully plugged into the

source and the notebook, and that the battery charging

power
light on the notebook is on.

■ If you are using a power strip, remove the AC adapter from

the power strip and plug it directly into a wall outlet.

■ Make sure the battery pack is fully installed and locked in

place.

■ Make sure you are using only the AC adapter included with

your notebook (or other approved adapter that meets the
power requirements of the notebook). Do not use a 60-watt,

3.16-amp adapter.

■ Move the notebook away from any nearby heat source.

Unplug the AC adapter and allow the battery pack to cool
down. If

the battery pack gets too hot, it will not charge

properly.

■ If available, try another battery pack and AC adapter.

If the Notebook Has a Short Operating Time

■ Conserve power using any of the suggestions listed in the

“Battery Packs and Power Management” chapter in this

guide.

■ If you are running an application that has an automatic save

feature (such as Microsoft Word), disable this feature or
increase the specified save time to reduce hard disk access.

6–16 Reference Guide

Troubleshooting

■ If the operating time has gradually become shorter and the

battery pack is more than a year or two old, you may need to
replace the battery pack.

■ Heavy modem use can impact battery-operating time.

■ PC Card use can impact battery-operating time.

■ Test and recondition the battery pack every 3 months.

If the Time Remaining for the Battery Pack Is Not Correct

The Time Remaining is an estimate, not a precise value, and is
based on the rate at which the notebook is using power at the
moment. This value therefore depends on your current task and
assumes that you will continue using power at the same rate until
the battery pack runs out. So, if you check the Time Remaining
while the notebook is performing a task requiring a good deal of
power (such as reading from a CD or DVD), the value will
probably show less time remaining than you really have, since
you will probably later switch to tasks that require less power.

If the Notebook Does Not Enter Standby Mode as Expected

■ If you have a connection to another computer, the notebook

will not enter Standby if the connection is active.

■ If the notebook is performing an operation, it normally waits

for the operation to finish before going into Standby.

If the Notebook Does Not Enter Hibernation as Expected

■ Make sure Hibernation support is enabled. From Control

Panel, open Power Options, then select the Hibernate tab.

■ Check the Power Schemes tab. Make sure the Hibernation

timeouts for both AC power and battery power are not set

Never.

to

Reference Guide 6–17

Troubleshooting

Printing Problems

You will usually be able to solve most printing problems by using

✎

the Print troubleshooter in Windows Help. Select Start > Help
and Support.

If a Serial or Parallel Printer Does Not Print

■ Make sure the printer is on and has paper in it.

■ Make sure you are using the correct printer cable or cable

adapter, and that the cable is secure at both ends.

■ Check for printer errors.

If the Left Edge of Printed Output Is Missing

Certain applications may not work properly with 600-dpi printers.
If you are using such a printer, try selecting a compatible printer
driver for a 300-dpi printer.

If an Infrared Printer Does Not Print

■ Make sure the line of sight between the 2 infrared ports is not

blocked, and that the ports face each other as squarely as
possible. (The notebook infrared port is located on the front
of the notebook.) The ports should be no more than 1 meter
apart.

■ Make sure the printer is on and has paper in it.

■ Check for printer errors.

Make sure Windows is running; otherwise, infrared printing is not
available.

6–18 Reference Guide

Troubleshooting

Serial, Parallel and USB Problems

If a Serial Mouse Does Not Work

■ Make sure you followed the manufacturer’s installation

instructions completely and have installed the mouse
properly. If not, repeat the procedure.

■ Make sure the port connection is secure.

■ Restart the notebook. Select Start > Turn Off Computer >

Restart.

■ Check mouse settings in Control Panel. Select Start > Control

Panel > Printers and Other Hardware > Mouse.

■ Use a mouse that connects to the USB port.

■ Check the port settings in Control Panel. Open the hardware

Device Manager, then select Ports (COM & LPT).

If a Serial Modem Does Not Work Properly

■ Make sure the port connection is secure.

■ Use the Modem troubleshooter in Windows Help. Select

> Help and Support.

Start

■ In Control Panel, open Phone and Modem Options, and check

the modem settings.

■ Disable the internal modem:

1. Open the hardware Device Manager. Select Start >

Control Panel > Performance and Maintenance > System.

2. Select Modem to list the current modem devices.

3. Select the internal modem, then select the option to

disable the modem.

■ Check the port settings in Control Panel. Open the hardware

Device Manager, then select Ports (COM & LPT).

Reference Guide 6–19

Troubleshooting

If the Serial or Parallel Port Is Not Working

■ Make sure the port connection is secure.

■ Check the port settings in Control Panel. Open the hardware

Device Manager, then select Ports (COM & LPT).

If the USB Port Is Not Working

■ Contact the vendor of the peripheral device for the latest USB

drivers.

■ Check the port settings in Control Panel. Open the hardware

Device Manager, then select Universal Serial Bus Controller.

Startup Problems

If the Notebook Does Not Respond When You Turn It On

■ Connect the AC adapter.

■ Reset the notebook by inserting the tip of a paper clip into

reset button on the bottom of the notebook. Then press the

the
power button to turn it on.

■ If the notebook still does not respond, remove the battery

pack and AC adapter, remove any PC Cards, and undock the
notebook if docked. Then plug in the AC adapter again, and
reset the notebook using the reset button.

If the Notebook Will Not Boot from Battery Power

■ Make sure the battery pack is properly inserted and fully

charged. Check the battery charge by removing it and
pressing the pad on the side of the battery pack. The lights
show the charge level.

■ If available, try another battery pack.

6–20 Reference Guide

Troubleshooting

If the Notebook Will Not Boot from the Diskette Drive

■ Make sure the diskette drive is selected as the boot device.

See the

■ If you are using a USB diskette drive, use the BIOS Setup

“Basic Operation” chapter in this guide for directions.

utility to make sure Legacy USB Support is enabled. If your
notebook also has a built-in diskette drive, use the BIOS
Setup utility Boot menu to make sure the USB diskette drive
is the first device under Removable Drive.

If the Notebook Stops Responding After Booting

Check whether you are connected to a TCP/IP network with

DHCP server. This can cause a long delay at startup because

no
DHCP is enabled. Contact your network administrator to
determine the proper TCP/IP configuration.

If the Notebook Takes a Long Time to Resume After Entering Standby

The notebook can routinely take a minute or more to resume if

has a network card installed. While the operating system is

it
loading drivers and checking hardware and network connections,
you will see a blinking cursor on your display. As soon as the
hardware has been reinitialized, the Windows desktop will
appear.

Reference Guide 6–21

Troubleshooting

Wireless Problems

If You Have Problems with Wireless 802.11 Communication

■ Make sure the wireless indicator light is on.

■ Make sure you are using the correct SSID and channel

settings.

■ Make sure you are in range of an access point (for an

infrastructure connection) or other wireless notebook

an Ad Hoc connection).

(for

■ When you log on to an 802.11 network via an access point

yet your notebook cannot connect to network resources,

notebook may not have been assigned an IP address.

your

the subnet mask for your wireless connection is

If

255.255.000.000, the network server did not assign an IP
address to your notebook, and you may have to release and
renew your network IP address. If releasing and renewing the
IP address does not fix the problem, the access point may
need to be rebooted.

■ If you want to change the SSID to a different value to connect

to a different access point, or if you want to change from
Infrastructure mode to Ad Hoc mode, you may first have to
release and renew the Internet IP address.

■ See “Local Area Network (LAN) Problems” in this chapter.

If You Have Trouble Connecting to Another
Notebook in the Network Neighborhood or
My

Network Places

■ Wait a few minutes, then press F5 to refresh the list of

notebooks on the network.

■ Select Start > Search > Notebooks or People to locate the

notebook.

6–22 Reference Guide

Troubleshooting

If You Cannot Connect to a Particular Notebook on the Network

■ Make sure the notebook is properly connected to the network.

■ Make sure your TCP/IP setup is correct for your network.

Select Start > Control Panel > Network Connections.

If You Can Connect, But the Network Is Slow

■ Check whether you might be in an area served by more than

one wireless LAN. If so, the LANs could be interfering with
each other.

■ Move closer to the access point (for an infrastructure

connection) or other wireless notebook (for an Ad Hoc
connection). You could be too far away for high-speed
communication.

Reference Guide 6–23

Troubleshooting

Configuring Your Notebook

The BIOS Setup utility helps you configure your notebook
operation.

To Run the BIOS Setup Utility

The BIOS (basic input and output system) Setup utility enables
you to make changes to the notebook system configuration, and
to tailor the operation of your notebook to your individual work
needs.

The settings made in BIOS Setup generally control the notebook
hardware, and so greatly affect how the notebook operates.

1. Select Start > Turn Off Computer > Restart.

2. When the logo screen appears, press F2 to enter BIOS Setup.

3. The pointing devices are not active in BIOS Setup, so you
will need to use the keyboard to navigate:

❏ Press the left and right arrow keys to move among menus.
❏ Press the up and down arrow keys to move among

parameters in a menu.

❏ Press + or - to move through values for the current

parameter, or press

enter to change a setting.

4. After you select the options you want, press F10 or use the
Exit menu to exit BIOS Setup.

5. If the settings cause a conflict between devices during reboot,
the system prompts you to run BIOS Setup, and marks the
conflicting settings.

The following tables describe BIOS settings for the BIOS version
at publication. If your BIOS is a different version, some settings
may differ from those shown.

6–24 Reference Guide

Troubleshooting

Main Menu

Setting Description Default

BIOS Revision Shows the current BIOS

version.

System Time Sets the time using 24-hour

format. Values set take effect
immediately.

System Date Sets the date using dd/mm/yy

Language Sets the language for BIOS

Internal
Hard

Disk

UMA Video
Memory

Memory Shows the extended

Serial Number Displays the serial number as

Service ID Displays an identifier used for

UUID Displays the value of the

format (except English, which
uses mm/dd/yy format).

Setup.

Sets the hard drive type and
various parameters.

Sets the video memory size
allocated from total installed
memory (RAM).

memory size.

shown on the back of the unit.

repair service.

16-byte UUID (Universally
Unique ID) as 32 hex
characters.

Detected
automatically

Detected
automatically

Detected
automatically

Auto

Detected
automatically

Detected
automatically

Detected
automatically

Detected
automatically

MAC Address Displays the MAC network

address of the internal
(wired) LAN.

Reference Guide 6–25

Detected
automatically

Troubleshooting

System Devices Menu

Setting Description Default

Video Display
Device

External
Pointing Device

Legacy USB
Support

Wake On LAN
from Power Off

Sets whether the built-in
display automatically switches
to an external display, if one is
detected.

Disables the internal pointing
devices when an external
pointing device is connected.

Enables BIOS support for USB
mouse, keyboard, and diskette
disk drive during startup.

Lets the notebook be turned
on via the LAN port. If this
option is enabled, the
notebook uses increased
power while it is shut

down.

Auto

Auto

Enabled

Disabled

Security Menu

Setting Description Default

User
Password is

Administrator
Password is

Set User
Password

Shows if a user password
is set.

Shows if an administrator
password is set.

Press enter to set, change, or
clear the user password. The
password can have no more
than 8 characters (0–9, A–Z),
and cannot include special or
accented characters.

Clear

Clear

Enter

6–26 Reference Guide

Troubleshooting

Security Menu

(Continued)

Setting Description Default

Set
Administrator
Password

Require
Password
on

Boot

Internal hard
drive lock

Press enter to set, change,
or clear the administrator
password, which protects
BIOS

Setup settings. The
password can have no more
than 8 characters (0–9, A–Z),
and cannot include special or
accented characters.

Sets whether a user password
is required when the notebook
boots. Requires the
administrator password for
changes.

Only if the Boot password
option is enabled, encodes
the

current user password (or
administrator password if that
is the only password set) on
the hard drive.

Enter

Disabled

Disabled

Reference Guide 6–27

Troubleshooting

Boot Menu

Setting Description Default

Hard Drive
+Removable
Devices
CD-ROM Drive
Built-in LAN

Shows the order of boot
devices. Move the entries
to

change the order. If the
notebook has more than
1

device in a + category, you
can select the one scanned.
Built-in LAN provides diskless
boot from a network server.

1. Hard Drive

2. Removable

3. CD-ROM

4. Built-in

Exit Menu

Setting Description Default

Save Changes
and Exit

Discard
Changes and
Exit

Get Default
Val ues

Saves Setup changes, then
exits and reboots.

Discards any Setup changes
made since last save, then
exits and reboots. Does not
affect password, date, or time
changes.

Restores default settings, and
remains in Setup. Does not
affect password, date, or time
changes.

devices

Drive

LAN

6–28 Reference Guide

Troubleshooting

Updating Software and Drivers from the Web

Software and driver updates for your notebook are available

download. For more information, visit the Web site at

for

http://www.hp.com/support.

Using System Recovery Features

The notebook system recovery process provides several options
for recovering optimal system functionality. System Restore and
OS CDs (operating system CDs) enable you to recover or
your notebook without losing personal data. The OS CD also
enables reinstallation of the operating system software provided
with the notebook.

repair

✎

Reference Guide 6–29

For best results, attempt to recover optimal notebook
functionality by using the following procedures in the order

described here.

Troubleshooting

Safeguarding Your Data

Software or devices added to the notebook can cause your system
to become unstable. To safeguard your documents, store personal
files in the
backup copy of My Documents. Setting System Restore points is
also recommended.

Your notebook sets System Restore points (benchmarks) daily as
you change your personal settings. The notebook may also set
restore points when you add new software or devices. You should
periodically set personal restore points when the notebook is
functioning at optimal performance and before installing new
software or devices. This enables you to return to a previous
configuration restore point if you encounter problems.

To set a system restore point:

1. Select Start > Help & Support. Select the task Use Tools to

2. Follow the on-screen directions for setting a restore point.

To restore the notebook to a previous date and time when it was
functioning optimally:

1. Select Start > Help & Support > Tools > System Restore.

2. Follow the on-screen directions for restoring the notebook.

My Documents folder and periodically create a

view your computer information and diagnose problems.
Select System Restore. A System Restore window opens.

6–30 Reference Guide

Operating System (OS) CD Repair

To repair the operating system without deleting your personal
data, use the standard Microsoft OS CD that was shipped with the
notebook. This CD contains the following preinstalled operating
systems:

■ Microsoft Windows XP Home or Pro (depending on

configuration)

■ Appropriate service pack

To repair the operating system:

1. Connect the notebook to external power and turn on the
notebook.

2. Immediately insert the OS CD into the notebook.

3. Press and hold the power button for 5 seconds to turn off the
notebook.

4. Press the power button again to start the notebook.

5. When prompted, press any key to boot from CD. After a few
minutes, the Welcome to Setup screen is displayed.

6. Press enter to continue. A Licensing Agreement screen is
displayed.

7. Press F8 to accept the agreement and continue. The Setup
window opens.

8. Press R to repair the selected Windows installation. The repair
process begins. This process takes 1 to 2 hours to complete.
The notebook restarts in Windows after the
complete.

Troubleshooting

process is

Reference Guide 6–31

Troubleshooting

OS CD Reinstall

If other recovery efforts do not successfully repair the notebook,
you can reinstall the operating system.

WARNING: Personal data and software you have installed on the

Å

notebook will be lost during the OS CD reinstall. To protect your data,
make a backup copy of My Documents before reinstalling your operating
system. Visit Help and Support to learn more about backing up your files.

To reinstall the operating system:

1. Connect the notebook to external power and turn on the
notebook.

2. Immediately insert the OS CD into the notebook.

3. Press and hold the power button for 5 seconds to turn off the
notebook.

4. Press the power button again to start the notebook.

5. When prompted, press any key to boot from the CD. After a
few minutes, the Welcome to Setup screen opens.

6. Press enter to continue. A Licensing Agreement screen is
displayed.

7. Press F8 to accept the agreement and continue. The Setup
window is displayed.

8. Press esc to continue installing a fresh copy of the operating
system without repairing.

9. Press enter to set up the operating system.

10. Press C to continue setup using this partition.

6–32 Reference Guide

11. Select Format the partition using the NTFS file system
(Quick) and press
this drive will delete all current files.

12. Press F to format the drive. The reinstallation process begins.
This process takes 1 to 2 hours to complete. The notebook
restarts in Windows after the process is complete.

When prompted for the product key, refer to the Microsoft

✎

Certificate of Authenticity located on the bottom of the notebook.

Reinstalling Drivers

After the OS installation process is complete, you must reinstall
drivers. Use the Driver Recovery CD with the OS CD for
hardware driver and system utility refresh and for full system
software restoration.

To reinstall drivers:

1. While running Windows, insert the Driver Recovery CD into
the optical drive.

2. If you do not have Autorun enabled, select Start > Run. Then
type

D:\SWSETUP\APPINSTL\SETUP.EXE (where D indicates the

optical drive).

3. Select the desired driver(s) or system utility from the Driver
Recovery CD menu.

4. Select Next to complete the installation.

Troubleshooting

enter. A caution is displayed that formatting

Restoring Software Applications

After the drivers are reinstalled, you must reinstall any software
you added to the notebook. Use the Application Recovery and
third-party CDs to reinstall or continue restoring software
applications. Follow the installation instructions provided with
the software CDs included with the notebook.

Reference Guide 6–33

Index

1394 port

connecting
location

5–7

1–3

A

AC adapter

connecting
jack location

adjusting

brightness
monitor resolution

volume
ALT GR key
alternate graphics (ALT GR)
antivirus software
AT commands
audio

adjusting volume

device connection

jack location

mute button

port locations

troubleshooting

volume control location

1–8

1–3

2–6

5–5

2–6

2–9

2–14

4–4

2–6

5–3

1–3

1–3

5–3

6–2

1–3

B

back panel components 1–3

2–9

battery packs

checking battery status 1–5, 3–3
creating power schemes 3–3
disposal and recycling
disposing of
extending life of
installing
location
low-battery warning
recharging
release latch
saving power automatically

3–2
saving power manually
status lights
troubleshooting

battery power

check status
low-battery warning

battery status lights
BIOS Setup Utility
blackout periods, modem
bottom panel components
brightness, adjusting
buttons

1–2

Click
One-Touch
on-off (on TouchPad)

3–7

1–7

1–2

3–5

1–4

1–5

3–3

1–2, 2–7

3–7

3–5

3–4

6–15

3–4

3–3

6–24

4–3

1–4

2–6

1–2

3–3

Reference Guide Index–1

Index

power 1–2, 1–10

1–4

reset
TV Now! One-Touch
wireless on-off

1–2

C

cable lock slot 1–3
CardBus slot location
CD-ROM drive

copying/creating CDs
inserting CD
location
removing CD

troubleshooting
changing the boot device
cleaning the notebook
Click buttons
components

back panel

bottom panel

front panel

keyboard status lights

left panel

right panel

status lights
configuring

modem

notebook
connecting

1394 device

AC power

audio device

external devices

local area network (LAN)

phone line

wireless network

1–2

1–2

1–3

1–2

1–3

1–2

4–4

6–24

1–8

1–9

1–3

2–10

2–10

6–3

2–17

1–4

1–1

5–7

5–3

5–1

4–6

5–5

2–12

2–3

1–2

4–5

connectors

1–3

audio
RJ-11 (modem)
RJ-45 (network)
security
S-Video out

1–3

1–3

1–3

1–3

D

decreasing display brightness 2–6
diskette drive location
display

adjusting brightness
adjusting settings
extending the life
switching to external monitor

5–5
troubleshooting
using dual display mode

drivers

reinstalling

DVD drive

creating data disc
creating movie disc
inserting DVD
location
playing movies
removing DVD
setting region code
troubleshooting

6–33

1–2

1–3

2–6
5–5
2–17

6–4

5–6

2–12

2–12

2–10

2–11

2–10

2–11

6–3

E

external monitor

adjusting settings
port location
switching the display

5–5

1–3

5–5

Index–2 Reference Guide

Index

F

Fn keys 2–6
front panel components
function hot keys

1–2

2–6

H

hard drive

activity status light
holder replacement
location
locking
preparing a new drive
protecting
replacing

troubleshooting
Hibernation mode
holder, hard drive
hot keys

1–2, 1–4

2–15

2–15

5–12

2–6

1–5

5–13

5–14

6–5

2–2

5–13

I

identifying components 1–1
increasing display brightness
infrared port

connecting a device

location

transferring files

troubleshooting

using the port
inserting

battery pack

CD

DVD

PC Card

RAM (memory)

1–2

2–10

2–10

5–1

1–7

5–7

5–8

6–7

5–8

5–9

2–6

K

keyboard

status lights
troubleshooting

keys

ALT GR
Applications
Fn (Function)
Windows

1–2, 1–6

6–7

2–9

2–8

2–6

2–8

L

LAN

connection

troubleshooting
left panel components
locking the hard drive
low-battery warning

4–5

6–8

1–3

2–15

3–4

M

maintenance and care 2–15, 2–16,

2–17
mini PCI cover
modem

AT commands
blackout periods
settings
troubleshooting

monitor resolution

1–4

4–4

4–3

4–4

6–10

5–5

N

network jack, location 1–3

O

One-Touch buttons 1–2, 2–7
on-off button

1–2

Reference Guide Index–3

Index

open/close latch 1–2
Operating System CD

reinstall
repair

6–32

6–31

P

parallel connection,

troubleshooting
parallel port (LPT1)
parts of the notebook

back panel
bottom panel
front panel
left panel
right panel

status lights
password protection
PC Cards

installing

removing

slot location

troubleshooting
ports

1–3

1394

external monitor

infrared

LPT1 (parallel)

serial port (COM1)

1–3

USB
power

1–2, 1–10

button

manage consumption

automatically

manage consumption

manually

mode status light

6–20

1–3

1–3

1–4

1–2

1–3

1–2

1–5

2–13

5–1

5–2

1–3

6–13

1–3

1–2

1–3

3–2

3–3

1–3

1–5

settings

troubleshooting
power-saving modes
printing, troubleshooting
protecting

data

hard drive

2–2

6–15

3–3

6–18

2–16

2–15

R

RAM

1–4

cover

installing

removing

troubleshooting
recharging the battery pack
reinstalling

operating system

software
reinstalling software
removing

CD

DVD

PC Cards

RAM (memory)
repairing the operating system

6–31

reset button

location

using
restoring software
right panel components
RJ-11 (modem) jack

connecting

location
RJ-45 (network) jack

5–9

5–10

6–9

3–5

6–32

6–33

6–29

2–10

2–10

5–2

5–10

1–4

2–3

6–33

1–2

1–9

1–3

1–3, 4–5

Index–4 Reference Guide