HP 421 User Manual

Notebook PC

User Guide

Bluetooth is a trademark owned by its proprietor and used by Hewlett-Packard Company under license. Microsoft and Windows are U.S. registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. SD Logo is a trademark of its proprietor.

The information contained herein is subject to change without notice. The only warranties for HP products and services are set forth in the express warranty statements accompanying such products and services. Nothing herein should be construed as constituting an additional warranty. HP shall not be liable for technical or editorial errors or omissions contained herein.

Second Edition: October 2010

First Edition: March 2010

Document Part Number: 601866-002

Product notice

This user guide describes features that are common to most models. Some features may not be available on your computer.

Safety warning notice

WARNING! To reduce the possibility of heat-related injuries or of overheating the computer, do not

place the computer directly on your lap or obstruct the computer air vents. Use the computer only on a hard, flat surface. Do not allow another hard surface, such as an adjoining optional printer, or a soft surface, such as pillows or rugs or clothing, to block airflow. Also, do not allow the AC adapter to contact the skin or a soft surface, such as pillows or rugs or clothing, during operation. The computer and the AC adapter comply with the user-accessible surface temperature limits defined by the International Standard for Safety of Information Technology Equipment (IEC 60950).

iii

iv Safety warning notice

Table of contents

1 Features ........................................................................................................................................................... 1

Identifying hardware ............................................................................................................................. 1

Top components .................................................................................................................. 1

TouchPad ............................................................................................................ 1

Lights ................................................................................................................... 3

Buttons, switch, and speaker .............................................................................. 4

Keys .................................................................................................................... 6

Front components ................................................................................................................ 7

Right-side components ........................................................................................................ 8

Left-side components .......................................................................................................... 9

Bottom components ............................................................................................................. 9

Multimedia components ..................................................................................................... 11

Wireless antennas (select models only) ............................................................................ 12

Additional hardware components ...................................................................................... 13

Identifying the labels ........................................................................................................................... 13

2 Networking .................................................................................................................................................... 15

Using wireless devices (select models only) ...................................................................................... 15

Identifying wireless and network icons .............................................................................. 15

Using the wireless controls ................................................................................................ 16

Using the wireless key ....................................................................................................... 16

Using Wireless Assistant software (select models only) .................................................... 16

Using operating system controls ........................................................................................ 17

Using a WLAN .................................................................................................................................... 18

Setting up a WLAN ............................................................................................................ 18

Protecting your WLAN ....................................................................................................... 18

Connecting to a WLAN ...................................................................................................... 20

Roaming to another network .............................................................................................. 20

Using Bluetooth wireless devices (select models only) ...................................................................... 21

Bluetooth and Internet Connection Sharing (ICS) ............................................................. 21

Troubleshooting wireless connection problems ................................................................................. 22

Cannot create a WLAN connection ................................................................................... 22

Cannot connect to a preferred network ............................................................................. 23

Network status icon is not displayed .................................................................................. 23

Current network security codes are unavailable ................................................................ 23

WLAN connection is very weak ......................................................................................... 24

Cannot connect to the wireless router ............................................................................... 24

Using the modem (select models only) .............................................................................................. 25

Connecting a modem cable (purchased separately) ......................................................... 25

Connecting a country-specific modem cable adapter (purchased separately) .................. 26

Selecting a location setting ................................................................................................ 26

Viewing the current location selection ............................................................... 26

Adding new locations when traveling ................................................................ 27

Solving travel connection problems .................................................................. 28

Connecting to a local area network (LAN) .......................................................................................... 29

3 Pointing devices and keyboard ................................................................................................................... 30

Using pointing devices ....................................................................................................................... 30

Setting pointing device preferences ................................................................................... 30

Using the TouchPad .......................................................................................................... 30

Connecting an external mouse .......................................................................................... 30

Using the keyboard ............................................................................................................................ 30

Using hotkeys .................................................................................................................... 30

Displaying system information .......................................................................... 32

Opening Help and Support ................................................................................ 33

Decreasing screen brightness ........................................................................... 33

Increasing screen brightness ............................................................................ 33

Switching the screen image .............................................................................. 33

Initiating Sleep (fn+f5) ....................................................................................... 34

Initiating QuickLock (fn+f6) (select models) ...................................................... 34

Launching Web browser (fn+f7) (select models) ............................................... 34

Launching printer (fn+f8) (select models) .......................................................... 34

Muting speaker sound (fn+f7) (select models) .................................................. 34

Decreasing speaker sound (fn+f8) (select models) ........................................... 34

Increasing speaker sound (fn+f9) (select models) ............................................ 35

Playing the previous track or section of an audio CD or a DVD (fn+f10)

(select models) .................................................................................................. 35

Playing, pausing, or resuming an audio CD or a DVD (fn+f11) (select

models) ............................................................................................................. 35

Playing the next track or section of an audio CD or a DVD (fn+f12) (select

models) ............................................................................................................. 35

Using the embedded numeric keypad ................................................................................................ 36

Enabling and disabling the embedded numeric keypad .................................................... 36

Switching key functions on the embedded numeric keypad .............................................. 36

Using an optional external numeric keypad ....................................................................................... 37

4 Multimedia ..................................................................................................................................................... 38

Multimedia features ............................................................................................................................ 38

Identifying your multimedia components ........................................................................... 38

Adjusting the volume ......................................................................................................... 40

Multimedia software ........................................................................................................................... 41

Using preinstalled multimedia software ............................................................................. 41

Installing multimedia software from a disc ......................................................................... 41

Audio .................................................................................................................................................. 42

Connecting external audio devices .................................................................................... 42

Checking your audio functions ........................................................................................... 42

Video .................................................................................................................................................. 44

Connecting an external monitor or projector ...................................................................... 44

Optical drive (select models only) ...................................................................................................... 45

Identifying the installed optical drive .................................................................................. 45

Using optical discs (CDs, DVDs, and BDs) ....................................................................... 45

Selecting the right disc (CDs, DVDs, and BDs) ................................................................. 45

CD-R discs ........................................................................................................ 46

CD-RW discs ..................................................................................................... 46

DVD±R discs ..................................................................................................... 46

DVD±RW discs ................................................................................................. 46

LightScribe DVD+R discs .................................................................................. 46

Blu-ray Discs (BDs) ........................................................................................... 46

Playing a CD, DVD, or BD ................................................................................................. 47

Configuring AutoPlay ......................................................................................................... 48

Changing DVD region settings .......................................................................................... 48

Observing the copyright warning ....................................................................................... 48

Creating or “burning” a CD or DVD .................................................................................... 49

Removing an optical disc (CD, DVD, or BD) ..................................................................... 49

Troubleshooting ................................................................................................................. 50

The optical disc tray does not open for removal of a CD, DVD, or BD ............. 50

The computer does not detect the optical drive ................................................ 51

Preventing playback disruptions ....................................................................... 52

A disc does not play .......................................................................................... 52

A disc does not play automatically .................................................................... 53

A movie stops, skips, or plays erratically .......................................................... 53

A movie is not visible on an external display ..................................................... 53

The process of burning a disc does not begin, or it stops before completion . . . 53

A device driver must be reinstalled ................................................................... 54

vii

Obtaining the latest HP device drivers ............................................. 54

Obtaining Microsoft device drivers ................................................... 55

Webcam ............................................................................................................................................. 56

Adjusting webcam properties ............................................................................................. 56

5 Power management ...................................................................................................................................... 58

Setting power options ......................................................................................................................... 58

Using power-saving states ................................................................................................. 58

Initiating and exiting Sleep ................................................................................ 58

Initiating and exiting Hibernation ....................................................................... 59

Using the battery meter ..................................................................................................... 59

Using power plans ............................................................................................................. 59

Viewing the current power plan ......................................................................... 60

Selecting a different power plan ........................................................................ 60

Customizing power plans .................................................................................. 60

Setting password protection on wakeup ............................................................................ 60

Using external AC power .................................................................................................................... 60

Connecting the AC adapter ............................................................................................... 61

Using battery power ........................................................................................................................... 62

Using Battery Check .......................................................................................................... 62

Displaying the remaining battery charge ........................................................................... 63

Inserting or removing the battery ....................................................................................... 63

Charging a battery ............................................................................................................. 65

Maximizing battery discharge time .................................................................................... 65

Managing low battery levels .............................................................................................. 65

Identifying low battery levels ............................................................................. 66

Resolving a low battery level ............................................................................. 66

Resolving a low battery level when external power is available ....... 66

Resolving a low battery level when a charged battery is

available ........................................................................................... 66

Resolving a low battery level when no power source is available . ... 66

Resolving a low battery level when the computer cannot exit

Hibernation ....................................................................................... 66

Calibrating a battery ........................................................................................................... 67

Step 1: Fully charge the battery ........................................................................ 67

Step 2: Disable Hibernation and Sleep ............................................................. 67

Step 3: Discharge the battery ............................................................................ 68

Step 4: Fully recharge the battery ..................................................................... 69

Step 5: Reenable Hibernation and Sleep .......................................................... 69

Conserving battery power .................................................................................................. 69

Storing a battery ................................................................................................................ 69

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Disposing of a used battery ............................................................................................... 70

Replacing the battery ......................................................................................................... 70

Testing an AC adapter ....................................................................................................................... 71

Shutting down the computer ............................................................................................................... 71

6 Drives ............................................................................................................................................................. 73

Identifying installed drives .................................................................................................................. 73

Handling drives ................................................................................................................................... 73

Improving hard drive performance ..................................................................................................... 75

Using Disk Defragmenter ................................................................................................... 75

Using Disk Cleanup ........................................................................................................... 75

Using external drives .......................................................................................................................... 76

Using optional external devices ......................................................................................... 76

Replacing the hard drive .................................................................................................................... 77

7 External devices ............................................................................................................................................ 81

Using a USB device ........................................................................................................................... 81

Connecting a USB device .................................................................................................. 81

Stopping and removing a USB device ............................................................................... 81

Using USB legacy support ................................................................................................. 82

Using external drives .......................................................................................................................... 83

Using optional external devices ......................................................................................... 83

8 External media cards .................................................................................................................................... 84

Using Media Card Reader cards ........................................................................................................ 84

Inserting a digital card ........................................................................................................ 84

Removing a digital card ..................................................................................................... 85

Using ExpressCards (select models only) .......................................................................................... 86

Configuring an ExpressCard .............................................................................................. 86

Inserting an ExpressCard .................................................................................................. 86

Stopping and removing an ExpressCard ........................................................................... 87

9 Memory modules .......................................................................................................................................... 89

Adding or replacing a memory module in the expansion memory module slot .................................. 90

Upgrading a memory module in the primary memory module slot ..................................................... 94

10 Security ........................................................................................................................................................ 98

Protecting the computer ..................................................................................................................... 98

Using passwords ................................................................................................................................ 99

Setting passwords in Windows .......................................................................................... 99

Setting passwords in Computer Setup .............................................................................. 99

BIOS administrator password .......................................................................................... 100

Managing a BIOS administrator password ...................................................... 100

Entering a BIOS administrator password ........................................................ 101

Using Computer Setup DriveLock ................................................................................... 101

Setting a DriveLock password ......................................................................... 102

Entering a DriveLock password ...................................................................... 102

Changing a DriveLock password .................................................................... 102

Removing DriveLock protection ...................................................................... 103

Using Computer Setup Auto DriveLock ........................................................................... 103

Entering an Automatic DriveLock password ................................................... 104

Removing Automatic DriveLock protection ..................................................... 104

Using Computer Setup security features .......................................................................................... 105

Securing system devices ................................................................................................. 105

Viewing Computer Setup System Information ................................................................. 105

Using Computer Setup System IDs ................................................................................. 106

Using antivirus software ................................................................................................................... 107

Using firewall software ..................................................................................................................... 107

Installing critical updates .................................................................................................................. 108

Using HP ProtectTools Security Manager (select models only) ....................................................... 109

Installing a security cable ................................................................................................................. 109

11 Software updates ...................................................................................................................................... 110

Updating software ............................................................................................................................ 110

Updating the BIOS ........................................................................................................................... 112

Determining the BIOS version ......................................................................................... 112

Downloading a BIOS update ........................................................................................... 113

Updating programs and drivers ........................................................................................................ 114

Using SoftPaq Download Manager .................................................................................................. 115

12 Backup and recovery ................................................................................................................................ 116

Backing up your information ............................................................................................................. 117

Performing a recovery ...................................................................................................................... 118

Using the Windows recovery tools ................................................................................... 118

Using f11 .......................................................................................................................... 119

Using a Windows Vista operating system DVD (purchased separately) ......................... 119

13 Computer Setup ........................................................................................................................................ 120

Starting Computer Setup .................................................................................................................. 120

Using Computer Setup ..................................................................................................................... 120

Navigating and selecting in Computer Setup ................................................................... 120

Restoring factory settings in Computer Setup ................................................................. 121

Computer Setup menus ................................................................................................................... 121

File menu ......................................................................................................................... 122

Security menu .................................................................................................................. 1 2 2

System Configuration menu ............................................................................................ 123

14 MultiBoot ................................................................................................................................................... 128

About the boot device order ............................................................................................................. 128

Enabling boot devices in Computer Setup ....................................................................................... 130

Considering boot order changes ...................................................................................................... 131

Choosing MultiBoot preferences ...................................................................................................... 132

Setting a new boot order in Computer Setup ................................................................... 132

Dynamically choosing a boot device using the F9 prompt ............................................... 132

Setting a MultiBoot Express prompt ................................................................................ 133

Entering MultiBoot Express preferences ......................................................................... 133

15 Management and printing ........................................................................................................................ 134

Using Client Management Solutions ................................................................................................ 134

Configuring and deploying a software image ................................................................... 134

Managing and updating software ..................................................................................... 135

HP Client Manager for Altiris (select models only) .......................................... 135

HP Client Configuration Manager (CCM) (select models only) ....................... 136

HP System Software Manager (SSM) ............................................................. 136

16 Cleaning guidelines .................................................................................................................................. 138

Cleaning products ............................................................................................................................ 138

Cleaning procedures ........................................................................................................................ 139

Cleaning the display ........................................................................................................ 139

Cleaning the sides and cover .......................................................................................... 139

Cleaning the TouchPad and keyboard ............................................................................ 139

Cleaning a tablet PC pen and pen holder ........................................................................ 139

Index ................................................................................................................................................................. 140

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1 Features

Identifying hardware

To see a list of hardware installed in the computer:

1. Select Start > Computer > System properties.

2. In the left pane, click Device Manager.

You can also add hardware or modify device configurations using Device Manager.

NOTE: Windows® includes the User Account Control feature to improve the security of your

computer. You may be prompted for your permission or password for tasks such as installing software, running utilities, or changing Windows settings. Refer to Windows Help and Support for more information.

Top components

TouchPad

Component Description

(1) TouchPad* Moves the pointer and selects or activates items on the screen.

(2) TouchPad button* The left and right sides of the single button function like the left

and right buttons on an external mouse.

Identifying hardware 1

Component Description

(3) TouchPad scroll zone Scrolls up or down.

*This table describes factory settings. To view or change pointing device preferences, select Start > Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > Mouse.

2 Chapter 1 Features

Lights

NOTE: Refer to the illustration that most closely matches your computer.

Component Description

(1) Caps lock light On: Caps lock is on.

Identifying hardware 3

Component Description

(2) Power light ● On: The computer is on.

Blinking: The computer is in the Sleep state.

●

● Off: The computer is off or in Hibernation.

(3) Wireless light ● White: An integrated wireless device, such as a wireless

Buttons, switch, and speaker

local area network (WLAN) device and/or a Bluetooth® device, is on.

● Amber: All wireless devices are off.

Component Description

(1) Speaker Produces sound.

4 Chapter 1 Features

Component Description

(2) Internal display switch Turns off the display if the panel lid is closed while the power is

(3) Power button

on.

When the computer is off, press the button to turn on the

●

computer.

● When the computer is on, press the button to shut down the

computer.

● When the computer is in the Sleep state, press the button

briefly to exit Sleep.

When the computer is in Hibernation, press the button

●

briefly to exit Hibernation.

If the computer has stopped responding and Windows shutdown procedures are ineffective, press and hold the power button for at least 5 seconds to turn off the computer.

To learn more about your power settings, select Start > Control Panel > System and Maintenance > Power Options.

Identifying hardware 5

Keys

NOTE: Refer to the illustration and table that most closely matches your computer.

Component Description

(1) esc key Displays system information when pressed in combination with

the fn key.

(2) fn key Executes frequently used system functions when pressed in

(3) Windows logo key Displays the Windows Start menu.

(4) Windows applications key Displays a shortcut menu for items beneath the cursor.

(5) Embedded numeric keypad keys Can be used like the keys on an external numeric keypad when

(6) Function keys Execute frequently used system functions when pressed in

(7) Wireless key Because the wireless devices are enabled at the factory, use the

combination with a function key or the esc key.

pressed in combination with the fn and num lk keys.

combination with the fn key.

wireless key to turn on or turn off the wireless devices simultaneously.

6 Chapter 1 Features

Component Description

(1) esc key Displays system information when pressed in combination with

(2) fn key Executes frequently used system functions when pressed in

(3) Windows logo key Displays the Windows Start menu.

(4) Windows applications key Displays a shortcut menu for items beneath the cursor.

(5) Embedded numeric keypad keys Can be used like the keys on an external numeric keypad when

(6) Wireless key Because the wireless devices are enabled at the factory, use the

(7) Function keys Execute frequently used system functions when pressed in

Front components

the fn key.

combination with a function key or the esc key.

pressed in combination with the fn and num lk keys.

wireless key to turn on or turn off the wireless devices simultaneously.

combination with the fn key.

Identifying hardware 7

Component Description

(1) SD Card Reader Supports the following optional digital card formats:

● MultiMediaCard (MMC)

MultiMediaCard 4.2 (MMC Plus, including MMC Plus HC)

●

● Secure Digital (SD) Memory Card

● Secure Digital High Capacity (SDHC) Memory Card

Secure Digital High Speed (SDHS) Memory Card

●

(2) Audio-out (headphone) jack Produces sound when connected to optional powered stereo

speakers, headphones, ear buds, a headset, or television audio.

NOTE: When a device is connected to the headphone jack, the

computer speakers are disabled.

(3) Audio-in (microphone) jack Connects an optional computer headset microphone, stereo

Right-side components

Component Description

(1) USB ports (2) Connect optional USB devices.

(2) RJ-11 (modem) jack (select models only) Connects a modem cable.

(3) Optical drive (select models only) Reads optical discs and, on select models, also writes to optical

(4) Optical drive light (select models only) Blinking: The optical drive is being accessed.

array microphone, or monaural microphone.

discs.

(5) Optical drive button (select models only) Opens optical drive tray.

8 Chapter 1 Features

Left-side components

Component Description

(1) ExpressCard slot Supports optional ExpressCards.

(2) Security cable slot Attaches an optional security cable to the computer.

(3) Vent Enables airflow to cool internal components.

NOTE: The security cable is designed to act as a deterrent, but

it may not prevent the computer from being mishandled or stolen.

NOTE: The computer fan starts up automatically to cool internal

components and prevent overheating. It is normal for the internal fan to cycle on and off during routine operation.

(4) External monitor port Connects an external VGA monitor or projector.

(5) Battery light ● Amber: A battery is charging.

● Turquoise: A battery is close to full charge capacity.

Blinking amber: A battery that is the only available power

●

source has reached a low battery level. When the battery reaches a critical battery level, the battery light begins blinking rapidly.

● Off: If the computer is plugged into an external power

source, the light turns off when all batteries in the computer are fully charged. If the computer is not plugged into an external power source the light stays off until the battery reaches a low battery level.

(6) Power connector Connects an AC adapter.

(7) RJ-45 (network) jack Connects a network cable.

(8) HDMI port Connects an optional HDMI device.

(9) USB port (1) Connect optional USB devices.

Bottom components

NOTE: Refer to the illustration that most closely matches your computer.

Identifying hardware 9

Component Description

(1) Battery release latches (2) Release the battery from the battery bay.

(2) Battery bay Holds the battery.

10 Chapter 1 Features

Component Description

(3) Vents (3) Enable airflow to cool internal components.

(4) Memory module compartment Contains the memory module slots.

WLAN module compartment Contains the wireless LAN module slot.

Hard drive bay Holds the hard drive and a Bluetooth device.

Multimedia components

NOTE: The computer fan starts up automatically to cool internal

components and prevent overheating. It is normal for the internal fan to cycle on and off during routine operation.

CAUTION: To prevent an unresponsive system and the display

of a warning message, replace the WLAN module with only a module authorized for use in the computer by the governmental agency that regulates wireless devices in your country. If you replace the module and then receive a warning message, remove the module to restore computer functionality, and then contact technical support through Help and Support.

Component Description

(1) Webcam light (select models only) On: The webcam is in use.

(2) Webcam (select models only) Records video and captures still photographs.

Identifying hardware 11

Component Description

(3) Integrated microphone Records sound.

(4) Audio-out (headphone) jack Produces sound when connected to optional powered stereo

(5) Audio-in (microphone) jack Connects an optional computer headset microphone, stereo

(6) Speaker Produces sound.

Wireless antennas (select models only)

On select computer models, at least 2 antennas send and receive signals from one or more wireless devices. These antennas are not visible from the outside of the computer.

speakers, headphones, ear buds, a headset, or television audio.

NOTE: When a device is connected to the headphone jack, the

computer speakers are disabled.

array microphone, or monaural microphone.

NOTE: For optimal transmission, keep the areas immediately around the antennas free from

obstructions.

To see wireless regulatory notices, refer to the section of the Regulatory, Safety and Environmental Notices that applies to your country or region. These notices are located in Help and Support.

12 Chapter 1 Features

Additional hardware components

Component Description

(1) Power cord* Connects an AC adapter to an AC outlet.

(2) AC adapter Converts AC power to DC power.

(3) Battery* Powers the computer when the computer is not plugged into

*Modem cables, batteries, modem cable adapters, and power cords vary in appearance by country or region.

Identifying the labels

The labels affixed to the computer provide information you may need when you troubleshoot system problems or travel internationally with the computer:

● Service tag—Provides important information, including the following:

◦ Product name (1). This is the product name affixed to the front of your notebook.

◦ Serial number (s/n) (2). This is an alphanumeric identifier that is unique to each product.

◦ Part number/Product number (p/n) (3). This number provides specific information about the

product's hardware components. The part number helps a service technician to determine what components and parts are needed.

external power.

Identifying the labels 13

◦ Model description (4). This is the number you use to locate documents, drivers, and support

for your notebook.

◦ Warranty period (5). Describes the duration of the warranty period for this computer.

Have this information available when you contact technical support. The service tag label is affixed to the bottom of the computer.

● Microsoft® Certificate of Authenticity—Contains the Windows Product Key. You may need the

Product Key to update or troubleshoot the operating system. This certificate is affixed to the bottom of the computer.

● Regulatory label—Provides regulatory information about the computer. The regulatory label is

affixed to the bottom of the computer.

● Modem approval label—Provides regulatory information about the modem and lists the agency

approval markings required by some of the countries in which the modem has been approved for use. You may need this information when traveling internationally. The modem approval label is affixed to the bottom of the computer.

● Wireless certification label(s) (select models only)—Provide information about optional wireless

devices and the approval markings of some of the countries in which the devices have been approved for use. An optional device may be a wireless local area network (WLAN) device or an optional Bluetooth® device. If your computer model includes one or more wireless devices, one or more certification labels are included with your computer. You may need this information when traveling internationally. Wireless certification labels are affixed inside the battery bay.

14 Chapter 1 Features

2Networking

Using wireless devices (select models only)

Wireless technology transfers data across radio waves instead of wires. Your computer may be equipped with one or more of the following wireless devices:

WLAN device—Connects the computer to wireless local area networks (commonly referred to as

●

Wi-Fi networks, wireless LANs, or WLANs) in corporate offices, your home, and public places such as airports, restaurants, coffee shops, hotels, and universities. In a WLAN, each mobile wireless device communicates with a wireless router or a wireless access point.

Bluetooth device—Creates a personal area network (PAN) to connect to other Bluetooth-

●

enabled devices such as computers, phones, printers, headsets, speakers, and cameras. In a PAN, each device communicates directly with other devices, and devices must be relatively close together—typically within 10 meters (approximately 33 feet) of each other.

Computers with WLAN devices support one or more of the following IEEE industry standards:

802.11b, the first popular standard, supports data rates of up to 11 Mbps and operates at a

●

frequency of 2.4 GHz.

802.11g supports data rates of up to 54 Mbps and operates at a frequency of 2.4 GHz. An

●

802.11g WLAN device is backward compatible with 802.11b devices, so they can operate on the same network.

802.11a supports data rates of up to 54 Mbps and operates at a frequency of 5 GHz.

●

NOTE: 802.11a is not compatible with 802.11b and 802.11g.

● 802.11n supports data rates of up to 450 Mbps and may operate at 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz, making it

backward compatible with 802.11a, b, and g.

For more information on wireless technology, refer to the information and Web site links provided in Help and Support.

Identifying wireless and network icons

Icon Name Description

Wireless (connected) Identifies the location of the wireless lights and the wireless buttons

on the computer. Also identifies the Wireless Assistant software on the computer and indicates that one or more of the wireless devices are on.

Using wireless devices (select models only) 15

Wireless (disconnected)

Identifies the Wireless Assistant software on the computer and indicates that all of the wireless devices are off.

Network status (connected)

Network status (unidentified)

Network status (disconnected)

Using the wireless controls

You can control the wireless devices in your computer using these features:

● Wireless key or wireless button (referred to in this guide as the wireless key)

Wireless Assistant software (select models only)

●

Operating system controls

●

Using the wireless key

Indicates that one or more of your network drivers are installed and one or more network devices are connected to the network.

Indicates that one or more of your network drivers are installed and one or more network devices are connected to the network, but the network is unidentified.

Indicates that one or more of your network drivers are installed, but no network devices are connected to the network.

The computer has a wireless key, one or more wireless devices, and one wireless light, All of the wireless devices on your computer are enabled at the factory, so the wireless light is on (white) when you turn on the computer.

The wireless light indicates the overall power state of your wireless devices, not the status of individual devices. If the wireless light is white, at least one wireless device is on. If the wireless light is amber, all wireless devices are off.

Because the wireless devices are enabled at the factory, you can use the wireless key to turn on or turn off the wireless devices simultaneously. Individual wireless devices can be controlled through Wireless Assistant software (select models only) or through Computer Setup.

NOTE: If the wireless devices are disabled by Computer Setup, the wireless key will not work until

you reenable your devices.

Using Wireless Assistant software (select models only)

A wireless device can be turned on or off using the Wireless Assistant software. If a wireless device is disabled by Computer Setup, it must be reenabled by Computer Setup before it can be turned on or off using Wireless Assistant.

NOTE: Enabling or turning on a wireless device does not automatically connect the computer to a

network or a Bluetooth-enabled device.

To view the state of the wireless devices, position the cursor over the wireless icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar.

16 Chapter 2 Networking

If the wireless icon is not displayed in the notification area, complete the following steps to change the Wireless Assistant properties:

1. Select Start > Control Panel > Mobile PC > Windows Mobility Center.

2. Click the wireless icon in the Wireless Assistant tile, which is located in the bottom row of

Windows Mobility Center.

3. Click Properties.

4. Select the check box next to HP Wireless Assistant icon in notification area.

5. Click Apply.

For more information, refer to the Wireless Assistant software Help:

1. Open Wireless Assistant by clicking the wireless icon in Windows Mobility Center.

2. Click the Help button.

Using operating system controls

Some operating systems also offer a way to manage integrated wireless devices and the wireless connection. For example, Windows provides the Network and Sharing Center that allows you to set up a connection or network, connect to a network, manage wireless networks, and diagnose and repair connections.

To access the Network and Sharing Center, click Start > Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center.

For more information, refer to Windows Help and Support. Click Start > Help and Support.

Using wireless devices (select models only) 17

Using a WLAN

With a WLAN device, you can access a WLAN, which is composed of other computers and accessories that are linked by a wireless router or a wireless access point.

NOTE: The terms wireless router and wireless access point are often used interchangeably.

● A large-scale WLAN, such as a corporate or public WLAN, typically uses wireless access points

that can accommodate a large number of computers and accessories and can separate critical network functions.

● A home or small office WLAN typically uses a wireless router, which allows several wireless and

wired computers to share an Internet connection, a printer, and files without requiring additional pieces of hardware or software.

To use the WLAN device in your computer, you must connect to a WLAN infrastructure (provided through a service provider or a public or corporate network).

Setting up a WLAN

To set up a WLAN and connect to the Internet, you need the following equipment:

● A broadband modem (either DSL or cable) (1) and high-speed Internet service purchased from

an Internet service provider (ISP)

● A wireless router (purchased separately) (2)

● The wireless computer (3)

The illustration below shows an example of a wireless network installation that is connected to the Internet.

As your network grows, additional wireless and wired computers can be connected to the network to access the Internet.

For help in setting up your WLAN, refer to the information provided by your router manufacturer or your ISP.

Protecting your WLAN

Because the WLAN standard was designed with only limited security capabilities—basically to foil casual eavesdropping rather than more powerful forms of attack—it is essential to understand that WLANs are vulnerable to well-known and well-documented security weaknesses.

WLANs in public areas, or “hotspots,” like coffee shops and airports, may not provide any security. New technologies are being developed by wireless manufacturers and hotspot service providers that make the public environment more secure and anonymous. If you are concerned about the security of your computer in a hotspot, limit your network activities to noncritical e-mail and basic Internet surfing.

18 Chapter 2 Networking

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