Windows is a registered trademark or
trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the
United States and/or other countries.
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.
Eighth Edition: August 2016
First Edition: June 2010
Document Part Number: 625148-008
Product notice
This user guide describes features that are
common to most models. Some features may
not be available on your computer.
Not all features are available in all editions of
Windows. This computer may require upgraded
and/or separately purchased hardware, drivers
and/or software to take full advantage of
Windows functionality. Go to
http://www.microsoft.com for details.
To access the latest user guide, go to
http://www.hp.com/ support, and select your
country. Select Drivers & Downloads, and then
follow the on-screen instructions.
Software terms
By installing, copying, downloading, or
otherwise using any software product
preinstalled on this computer, you agree to be
bound by the terms of the HP End User License
Agreement (EULA). If you do not accept these
license terms, your sole remedy is to return the
entire unused product (hardware and software)
within 14 days for a full refund subject to the
refund policy of your seller.
For any further information or to request a full
refund of the price of the computer, please
contact your seller.
About this book
WARNING! Text set o in this manner indicates that failure to follow directions could result in bodily harm or
loss of life.
CAUTION: Text set o in this manner indicates that failure to follow directions could result in damage to
equipment or loss of information.
NOTE: Text set o in this manner provides important supplemental information.
iii
iv About this book
Table of contents
1 Getting started in Windows 7 .......................................................................................................................... 1
Activating and customizing the software .............................................................................................................. 1
Activating the Windows operating system ......................................................................................... 1
Downloading Windows 7 updates ....................................................................................................... 1
Installing or upgrading device drivers ................................................................................................ 1
Customizing the monitor display ........................................................................................................ 2
Turning o the computer ....................................................................................................................................... 2
If you encounter issues .......................................................................................................................................... 2
HP Support Assistant ........................................................................................................ 3
Using HP PC Hardware Diagnostics ................................................................................... 3
Why run HP PC Hardware Diagnostics ............................................................ 4
How to access and run HP PC Hardware Diagnostics ..................................... 4
Downloading HP PC Hardware Diagnostics to a USB device .......................... 4
Before you call for support ............................................................................................... 5
Backing up, restoring, and recovering in Windows 7 ........................................................ 6
Creating recovery media ................................................................................. 6
System Restore ............................................................................................... 9
System Recovery ............................................................................................ 9
Using, updating, and maintaining your PC .......................................................................................................... 12
2 Getting started in Windows 8 ........................................................................................................................ 13
Activating and customizing the software ........................................................................................................... 13
Activating the Windows operating system ....................................................................................... 13
Downloading Windows 8 updates ..................................................................................................... 13
Customizing the monitor display ...................................................................................................... 13
Turning o the computer ..................................................................................................................................... 14
If you encounter issues ........................................................................................................................................ 14
System Recovery using HP Recovery Media (select models only) ............... 19
Restoring and recovering using Windows tools ........................................... 20
Using, updating, and maintaining your PC .......................................................................................................... 21
3 Getting started in Windows 10 ...................................................................................................................... 22
Activating and customizing the software ........................................................................................................... 22
Activating the Windows operating system ....................................................................................... 22
Downloading Windows updates ........................................................................................................ 22
Customizing the monitor display ...................................................................................................... 22
Turning o the computer ..................................................................................................................................... 23
If you encounter issues ........................................................................................................................................ 23
HP Support Assistant ...................................................................................................... 24
Using HP PC Hardware Diagnostics ................................................................................ 24
Why run HP PC Hardware Diagnostics .......................................................... 25
How to access and run HP PC Hardware Diagnostics ................................... 25
Downloading HP PC Hardware Diagnostics to a USB device ........................ 25
Before you call for support ............................................................................................. 26
Backing up, restoring, and recovering in Windows 10 ................................................... 27
Creating recovery media and backups ......................................................... 27
Using Windows tools .................................................................................... 28
Restore and recovery .................................................................................... 28
4 Finding more information ............................................................................................................................. 32
Contacting support .............................................................................................................................................. 33
vi
vii
viii
1Getting started in Windows 7
Windows 7 does not support the embedded TPM 2.0. You can either download a hotx from Microsoft to add
support or downgrade to TPM 1.2.
Activating and customizing the software
If your computer was not shipped with a Windows® operating system, some portions of this documentation
do not apply. Additional information is available in online help after you activate the operating system.
CAUTION: Do not add optional hardware or third-party devices to the computer until the operating system
is successfully activated. Doing so may cause errors and prevent the operating system from installing
properly.
NOTE: Be sure that there is a 10.2 cm (4-inch) clearance at the back of the unit and above the monitor to
permit the required airow.
Activating the Windows operating system
The rst time you turn on the computer, the operating system is set up and activated automatically. This
process takes about 5 to 10 minutes. Carefully read and follow the instructions on the screen to complete the
activation.
We recommend that you register your computer with HP during operating system setup so you can receive
important software updates and sign up for special oers.
CAUTION: After the activation process has begun, DO NOT TURN OFF THE COMPUTER UNTIL THE PROCESS IS
COMPLETE. Turning o the computer during the activation process may damage the software that runs the
computer or prevent its proper installation.
NOTE: If the computer was shipped with more than one operating system language on the hard drive, the
activation process could take up to 60 minutes.
Downloading Windows 7 updates
Microsoft may release updates to the operating system. To help keep the computer running optimally, HP
recommends checking for the latest updates during the initial installation and periodically throughout the life
of the computer.
1.To set up your Internet connection, click Start > Internet Explorer and follow the instructions on the
screen.
2.After an Internet connection has been established, click Start > All Programs > Windows Update.
3.Run Windows Update monthly thereafter.
Installing or upgrading device drivers
When installing optional hardware devices after the operating system installation is complete, you must also
install the drivers for each of the devices.
Activating and customizing the software1
In Windows 7, if prompted for the i386 directory, replace the path specication with C:\i386, or use the
Browse button in the dialog box to locate the i386 folder. This action points the operating system to the
appropriate drivers.
Obtain the latest support software, including support software for the operating system, from
http://www.hp.com/support. Select your country and language, select Download drivers and software (and
rmware), enter the model number of the computer, and press Enter.
Customizing the monitor display
You can select or change the monitor refresh rates, screen resolution, color settings, font sizes, and power
management settings.
For more information, refer to the online documentation provided with the graphics controller utility or the
documentation that came with your monitor.
Right-click on the Windows desktop, then click Personalize to change display settings.
Turning o the computer
To properly turn o the computer, rst shut down the operating system software.
▲
Click Start > Shut down.
If you encounter issues
There are several means to diagnose and resolve potential issues. HP provides several proprietary
diagnostics tools but recommends a sequential troubleshooting approach, from the most basic root cause to
the more complex.
1.Visual inspection
2.Blink or beep codes
3.HP Support Assistant troubleshooter
4.HP PC Hardware Diagnostics
5.HP Support
6.System restore
7.System recovery
Performing basic troubleshooting
Perform the troubleshooting procedures in this section in the order presented, until your issue is resolved.
You can nd additional troubleshooting information in the comprehensive Maintenance and Service Guide
(English only) available at http://www.hp.com/support. Select Find your product, enter the model number of
the computer, and click Search.
Visual inspection: No boot, no power, no video
CAUTION: When the computer is plugged into an AC power source, there is always voltage applied to the
system board. To reduce the risk of system board or component damage, always disconnect the power cord
from the power source before opening the computer.
2Chapter 1 Getting started in Windows 7
If you encounter problems with the computer, monitor, or software, see the following list of general
suggestions before taking further action:
●
Be sure that the computer and monitor are plugged into a working electrical outlet.
●
Check to see that the voltage select switch (some models) is set to the appropriate voltage for your
region (115 V or 230 V).
●
Check to see that the computer is on (the power light is on).
●
Check to see that the monitor is on (the monitor light is on).
●
Turn up the brightness and contrast controls of the monitor if the monitor is dim.
●
If the system does not boot, press and hold any key. If the system beeps, then the keyboard is operating
correctly.
●
Check all cable connections for loose connections or incorrect connections.
●
Wake the computer by pressing any key on the keyboard or pressing the power button. If the system
remains in the Sleep state, shut down the computer by pressing and holding the power button for at
least four seconds. Then press the power button again to restart the computer. If the system will not
shut down, unplug the power cord, wait a few seconds, and then plug it in again. The computer will
restart if automatic start on power loss is set in Computer Setup. If the computer does not restart, press
the power button.
●
Recongure your computer after installing a non–Plug and Play expansion board or other option.
●
Be sure that all the needed device drivers have been installed. For example, if you are using a printer,
you need a driver for that printer model.
●
Remove any bootable media (CD/DVD or USB device) from the system before turning it on.
●
If you have installed an operating system other than the factory-installed operating system, check to be
sure that it is supported on the system.
●
If the system has multiple video sources (embedded, PCI, or PCI-Express adapters) installed (embedded
video on some models only) and a single monitor, the monitor must be connected to the monitor port on
the source that is set as the primary video source. During boot, the other video ports are disabled; if the
monitor is connected to one of these ports, the monitor will not function. You can select or change the
primary video source in Computer Setup.
Blink or beep codes: Interpreting POST diagnostic front panel LEDs and audible codes
If you see ashing LEDs on the front of the computer or if you hear beeps, see the Maintenance and Service
Guide (English only) for interpretation and recommended action.
HP Support Assistant
HP Support Assistant is an HP application that helps you maintain the performance of your computer and
resolve problems through automated updates and tune-ups, built-in diagnostics, and guided assistance. HP
Support Assistant is preinstalled on all HP or Compaq computers running Windows 7.
To access HP Support Assistant in Windows 7, double-click the HP Support Assistant icon on your desktop.
Using HP PC Hardware Diagnostics
If HP Support Assistant is unable to detect a problem, try the UEFI-based hardware diagnostic solution that
HP includes on all products. You can use this tool even if the computer will not boot to the operating system.
This tool also works with components not diagnosed in HP Support Assistant.
If you encounter issues3
Why run HP PC Hardware Diagnostics
The HP PC Hardware Diagnostic tools simplify the process of diagnosing hardware issues and expedite the
support process when issues are found. The tools save time by pinpointing the component that needs to be
replaced.
●
Isolate true hardware failures: The diagnostics run outside of the operating system so they eectively
isolate hardware failures from issues that may be caused by the operating system or other software
components.
●
Failure ID: When a failure is detected that requires hardware replacement, a 24-digit Failure ID is
generated. This ID can then be provided to the call agent, who will either schedule support or provide
replacement parts.
How to access and run HP PC Hardware Diagnostics
You can run the diagnostics from one of three places, depending on your preference and the health of the
computer.
1.Turn on the computer and press Esc repeatedly until the BIOS Boot Menu appears.
2.Press F2 or select Diagnostics (F2).
Pressing F2 signals the system to search for the diagnostics in the following locations:
a.A connected USB drive (to download the diagnostics tools to a USB drive, see the instructions in
Downloading HP PC Hardware Diagnostics to a USB device on page 4)
b.The hard drive
c.A core set of diagnostics in the BIOS (for memory and hard drive) that are accessible only if the USB
or hard drive versions are not detected
Downloading HP PC Hardware Diagnostics to a USB device
NOTE: Instructions for downloading HP PC Hardware Diagnostics (UEFI) are provided in English only.
There are two options to download HP PC Hardware Diagnostics to a USB device.
Option 1: HP PC Diagnostics homepage— Provides access to the latest UEFI version
1.Go to http://hp.com/go/techcenter/pcdiags.
2.In the HP PC Hardware Diagnostics section, click the Download link, and then select Run.
Option 2: Support and Drivers pages—Provide downloads for a specic product for earlier and later versions
1.Go to http://www.hp.com.
2.Point to Support, located at the top of the page, and then click Download Drivers.
3.In the text box, enter the product name, and then click Go.
– or –
Click Find Now to let HP automatically detect your product.
4.Select your computer model, and then select your operating system.
5.In the Diagnostic section, click HP UEFI Support Environment.
– or –
Click Download, and then select Run.
4Chapter 1 Getting started in Windows 7
Before you call for support
WARNING! When the computer is plugged into an AC power source, voltage is always applied to the system
board. To reduce the risk of personal injury from electrical shock and/or hot surfaces, be sure to disconnect
the power cord from the wall outlet and allow the internal system components to cool before you touch them.
If you are having problems with the computer, try the appropriate solutions as described in the previous
sections and summarized below to try to isolate the exact problem before calling for technical support.
●
Check the power LED on the front of the computer to see if it is ashing and listen for a series of beeps
emanating from the computer. The ashing lights and/or beeps are error codes that will help you
diagnose the problem. Refer to the
●
If the screen is blank, plug the monitor into a dierent video port on the computer if one is available, or
replace the monitor with a monitor that you know is functioning properly.
●
If you are working on a network:
◦
Use a dierent network cable to connect your computer to the network.
◦
Connect a dierent computer with a dierent cable to the network.
If your problem is not resolved, the network jack on your computer or the network wall jack might be
faulty.
●
If you recently added new hardware, remove the hardware.
●
If you recently installed new software, uninstall the software.
Maintenance and Service Guide (English only) for details.
●
Boot the computer to Safe Mode to see if it will boot without all of the drivers loaded. To boot to Safe
Mode:
1.Restart the computer.
2.Press and hold the F8 key before the operating system starts. The Advanced Boot Options screen
appears.
3.Use the arrow keys to highlight Last Known Good Conguration, and then press Enter to boot the
computer.
●
If the computer will turn on but will not boot into the operating system, you may run the “pre-boot”
diagnostics utility, HP PC Hardware Diagnostics. Refer to Using HP PC Hardware Diagnostics on page 3
for more information.
●
If the computer will boot into the operating system, use one of the following tools. They provide selfsolve diagnostics and online chat features (if Internet access is also available).
◦
If you have HP Support Assistant, access it by double-clicking the HP Support Assistant icon.
◦
If you do not have HP Support Assistant installed, access HP Instant Support Professional Edition at
http://www.hp.com/go/ispe.
You may also access the Business Support Center (BSC) at http://www.hp.com/go/bizsupport for the latest
online support information, software and drivers, proactive notication, and access to a worldwide
community of peers and HP experts.
Comprehensive online technical support is also available at http://www.hp.com/support.
If it becomes necessary to call for technical assistance, be prepared to do the following to ensure that your
service call is handled properly:
●
Before calling:
If you encounter issues5
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