HP (Hewlett-Packard) B5A04UAR-ABA User Manual
User Guide
© Copyright 2012 Hewlett-Packard
Development Company, L.P.
Bluetooth is a trademark owned by its
proprietor and used by Hewlett-Packard
Company under license. Intel is a
trademark of Intel Corporation in the U.S.
and other countries. 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.
First Edition: February 2012
Document Part Number: 677575-001
Product notice
This guide describes features that are
common to most models. Some features
may not be available on your computer.
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 refund subject to the refund
policy of your place of purchase.
For any further information or to request a
full refund of the computer, please contact
your local point of sale (the seller).
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
come into contact with 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 Starting right ................................................................................................................................................... 1
Best practices ....................................................................................................................................... 1
Fun things to do .................................................................................................................................... 2
More HP resources .............................................................................................................................. 3
2 Getting to know your computer ..................................................................................................................... 4
Finding your hardware and software information ................................................................................. 4
Right side ............................................................................................................................................. 4
Left side ................................................................................................................................................ 6
Display .................................................................................................................................................. 8
Top ....................................................................................................................................................... 9
TouchPad ............................................................................................................................ 9
Lights ................................................................................................................................. 10
Buttons and speakers ........................................................................................................ 11
Keys ................................................................................................................................... 12
Bottom ................................................................................................................................................ 13
Labels ................................................................................................................................................. 14
3 Connecting to a network .............................................................................................................................. 15
Connecting to a wireless network ....................................................................................................... 16
Using the wireless controls ................................................................................................ 16
Using the wireless button .................................................................................. 16
Using HP Connection Manager ......................................................................... 16
Using operating system controls ....................................................................... 17
Using a WLAN ................................................................................................................... 17
Using an Internet service provider .................................................................... 17
Setting up a WLAN ............................................................................................ 18
Configuring a wireless router ............................................................................ 18
Protecting your WLAN ....................................................................................... 18
Connecting to a WLAN ...................................................................................... 19
Using Bluetooth wireless devices (select models only) ..................................................... 19
v
Connecting to a wired network ........................................................................................................... 20
Connecting to a local area network (LAN) ......................................................................... 20
4 Enjoying entertainment features ................................................................................................................. 21
Using the webcam .............................................................................................................................. 23
Using audio ........................................................................................................................................ 23
Connecting speakers ......................................................................................................... 23
Connecting headphones .................................................................................................... 23
Connecting a microphone .................................................................................................. 23
Checking the sound ........................................................................................................... 23
Using video ......................................................................................................................................... 24
Connecting a VGA monitor or projector ............................................................................. 24
Connecting an HDMI TV or monitor ................................................................................... 25
Configuring audio settings (with HDMI TV) ....................................................... 26
Using Intel Wireless Display and Wireless Music (select models only) ............................. 26
Managing your photo, audio, and video files ...................................................................................... 26
5 Using the keyboard and pointing devices .................................................................................................. 27
Using the keyboard ............................................................................................................................ 28
Using ALT GR key combinations ....................................................................................... 28
Using the action keys ......................................................................................................... 28
Using the hot keys ............................................................................................................. 29
Using the keypad ............................................................................................................... 30
Using the integrated numeric keypad ................................................................ 30
Using the TouchPad ........................................................................................................................... 31
Turning the TouchPad off or on ......................................................................................... 31
Navigating .......................................................................................................................... 32
Selecting ............................................................................................................................ 32
Using TouchPad gestures ................................................................................................. 33
Scrolling ............................................................................................................ 34
Pinching/Zooming ............................................................................................. 34
Rotating ............................................................................................................. 35
6 Managing power ............................................................................................................................................ 36
Using Sleep or Hibernation ................................................................................................................ 37
Initiating and exiting Sleep ................................................................................................. 37
Initiating and exiting Hibernation ........................................................................................ 37
Setting password protection on wakeup ............................................................................ 38
Using the power meter ....................................................................................................................... 39
Selecting a power plan ....................................................................................................................... 40
vi
Running on battery power .................................................................................................................. 41
Removing a user-replaceable battery ................................................................................ 41
Finding battery information ................................................................................................ 41
Conserving battery power .................................................................................................. 42
Identifying low battery levels .............................................................................................. 42
Storing a user-replaceable battery ..................................................................................... 42
Disposing of a user-replaceable battery ............................................................................ 43
Replacing a user-replaceable battery ................................................................................ 43
Running on external power ................................................................................................................ 44
HP CoolSense .................................................................................................................................... 45
Shutting down the computer ............................................................................................................... 45
7 Managing and sharing information ............................................................................................................. 46
Using a USB device ........................................................................................................................... 46
Connecting a USB device .................................................................................................. 46
Removing a USB device .................................................................................................... 47
Connecting a powered USB device ................................................................................... 47
Inserting and removing a digital storage card .................................................................................... 48
Using optical drives ............................................................................................................................ 49
Inserting an optical disc ..................................................................................................... 50
Removing an optical disc ................................................................................................... 50
Sharing drives on the network ........................................................................................... 51
8 Maintaining your computer .......................................................................................................................... 52
Improving performance ...................................................................................................................... 52
Handling drives .................................................................................................................. 52
Replacing a hard drive ....................................................................................................... 53
Using HP 3D DriveGuard (select models only) .................................................................. 55
Using Disk Defragmenter ................................................................................................... 55
Using Disk Cleanup ........................................................................................................... 55
Adding or replacing memory modules ............................................................................... 56
Updating programs and drivers .......................................................................................................... 60
Cleaning your computer ..................................................................................................................... 61
Cleaning the display, sides, and cover .............................................................................. 61
Cleaning the TouchPad and keyboard .............................................................................. 61
Traveling with or shipping your computer ........................................................................................... 62
9 Securing your computer and information .................................................................................................. 63
Locating your security software .......................................................................................................... 63
Using passwords ................................................................................................................................ 64
vii
Setting Windows passwords .............................................................................................. 64
Setting Setup Utility (BIOS) passwords ............................................................................. 65
Using Internet security software ......................................................................................................... 65
Using antivirus software ..................................................................................................... 66
Using firewall software ....................................................................................................... 66
Installing software updates ................................................................................................................. 66
Installing Windows security updates .................................................................................. 66
Installing HP and third-party software updates .................................................................. 66
Securing your wireless network .......................................................................................................... 67
Backing up your software applications and information ..................................................................... 67
Using an optional security cable lock ................................................................................................. 67
10 Using Setup Utility (BIOS) and System Diagnostics ............................................................................... 68
Starting Setup Utility (BIOS) ............................................................................................................... 68
Updating the BIOS ............................................................................................................................. 68
Determining the BIOS version ........................................................................................... 69
Downloading a BIOS update ............................................................................................. 69
Using System Diagnostics .................................................................................................................. 70
11 Backing up, restoring, and recovering ..................................................................................................... 71
Creating backups ............................................................................................................................... 71
Creating recovery media to recover the original system .................................................... 71
What you need to know ..................................................................................... 71
Creating the recovery media ............................................................ 72
Creating system restore points .......................................................................................... 72
What you need to know ..................................................................................... 72
Creating a system restore point ........................................................................ 72
Backing up system and personal information .................................................................... 73
Tips for a successful backup ............................................................................. 73
What you need to know ..................................................................................... 73
Creating a backup using Windows Backup and Restore .................................. 74
Restore and recovery ......................................................................................................................... 75
Restoring to a previous system restore point .................................................................... 75
Restoring specific files ....................................................................................................... 75
Restoring specific files using Windows Backup and Restore ............................ 75
Recovering the original system using HP Recovery Manager ........................................... 75
What you need to know ..................................................................................... 75
Recovering using HP Recovery partition (select models only) ......................... 76
Recovering using the recovery media ............................................................... 76
Changing the computer boot order ................................................... 77
viii
12 Specifications .............................................................................................................................................. 78
Input power ......................................................................................................................................... 78
Operating environment ....................................................................................................................... 79
13 Troubleshooting and support .................................................................................................................... 80
Troubleshooting .................................................................................................................................. 81
Disc drive problems ........................................................................................................... 81
Wireless connection problems ........................................................................................... 81
Cannot connect to a WLAN ............................................................................... 82
Cannot connect to a preferred network ............................................................. 82
Current network security codes are unavailable ............................................... 82
WLAN connection is very weak ......................................................................... 83
Cannot connect to the wireless router ............................................................... 83
Network status icon is not displayed ................................................................. 84
Audio problems .................................................................................................................. 84
Power management problems ........................................................................................... 84
Resolving a low battery level ............................................................................. 85
Resolving a low battery level when external power is available ....... 85
Resolving a low battery level when no power source is available .... 85
Resolving a low battery level when the computer cannot exit
Hibernation ....................................................................................... 85
Troubleshooting an AC adapter ........................................................................ 85
Contacting customer support ............................................................................................................. 86
14 Electrostatic Discharge .............................................................................................................................. 87
Index ................................................................................................................................................................... 88
ix
x
1 Starting right
This computer is a powerful tool designed to enhance your work and entertainment. To get the most
out of your computer, read this chapter to learn about best practices after setup, fun things to do with
your computer, and where to go to get more HP resources.
Best practices
To protect your smart investment, after you set up and register the computer, we recommend the
following steps:
If you haven’t already done so, connect to a wired or wireless network. See details in
●
to a network on page 15.
● Become familiar with the computer hardware and software. Go to
on page 4 and Enjoying entertainment features on page 21 for information.
● Update or purchase antivirus software. Learn more at
● Back up your hard drive by creating recovery discs or a recovery flash drive. See
restoring, and recovering on page 71.
Using antivirus software on page 66.
Getting to know your computer
Connecting
Backing up,
Best practices 1
Fun things to do
You know you can watch a YouTube video on the computer. But did you know that you can also
●
connect your computer to a TV and watch the video on TV? For more information, see
Connecting an HDMI TV or monitor on page 25.
You know you can listen to music on the computer. But did you know that you can also stream
●
live radio to the computer and listen to music or talk radio from all over the world? See
audio on page 23.
You know you can create a powerful presentation with Microsoft applications. But did you know
●
you can also connect to a projector to share your ideas with a group? See
monitor or projector on page 24.
Using
Connecting a VGA
2 Chapter 1 Starting right
More HP resources
You have already used Setup Instructions to turn on the computer and locate this guide. For product
details, how-to information, and more, use this table.
Resource Contents
Setup Instructions
Help and Support
To access Help and Support, select Start > Help and
Support. For more details, go to
support.
Safety & Comfort Guide
To access this guide, select Start > Help and
Support > User Guides, or go to
ergo.
Worldwide support
To get support in your language, go to
http://www.hp.com/support.
Regulatory, Safety and Environmental Notices
To access this guide, select Start > Help and
Support > User Guides.
Limited Warranty*
To access the warranty, select Start > Help and
Support > User Guides or go to
go/orderdocuments.
http://www.hp.com/
http://www.hp.com/
http://www.hp.com/
Overview of computer setup and features.
●
● A broad range of how-to information and troubleshooting tips.
Proper workstation setup.
●
● Guidelines for posture and work habits that increase your
comfort and decrease your risk of injury.
Electrical and mechanical safety information.
●
Chat online with an HP technician.
●
● Email customer support.
● Find worldwide customer support telephone numbers.
● Locate HP service center locations.
● Important regulatory notices, including proper battery disposal
information.
Specific warranty information about this computer.
●
*You can find the expressly provided HP Limited Warranty applicable to your product located with the user guides on your
computer and/or on the CD/DVD provided in the box. In some countries/regions, HP may provide a printed HP Limited
Warranty in the box. For countries/regions where the warranty is not provided in printed format, you may request a printed
copy from
●
●
● Asia Pacific: Hewlett-Packard, POD, P.O. Box 200, Alexandra Post Office, Singapore 911507
When you request a printed copy of the warranty, please include the product number, warranty period (found on your serial
number label), name, and postal address.
IMPORTANT: Do NOT return your HP product to the addresses above. For product support, see your product home page
at
http://www.hp.com/go/orderdocuments or write to:
North America: Hewlett-Packard, MS POD, 11311 Chinden Blvd, Boise, ID 83714, USA
Europe, Middle East, Africa: Hewlett-Packard, POD, Via G. Di Vittorio, 9, 20063, Cernusco s/Naviglio (MI), Italy
http://www.hp.com/go/contactHP.
More HP resources 3
2 Getting to know your computer
Finding your hardware and software information
Select Start > Computer.
▲
A list displays all the devices installed in your computer, including optical drives, solid-state drives
(SSD), or a secondary hard drive.
To find out what software is included on your computer, select Start > All Programs.
Right side
Component Description
(1) Optical drive Reads and writes to an optical disc.
(2) Optical drive light ● Green or Amber: The optical drive is being accessed.
(3) Optical drive eject button Releases the disc tray.
(4)
Power light
4 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer
Off: The optical drive is idle.
●
White: The computer is on.
●
● Blinking white: The computer is in the Sleep state,
which is an energy-saving mode. The computer shuts
off power to the display and other unneeded
components.
● Off: The computer is off or in Hibernation. Hibernation
is an energy-saving mode that uses the least amount
of power.
Component Description
(5)
(6)
(7) AC adapter light
(8)
(9)
Hard drive light
USB 2.0 port Connects an optional USB device.
Power connector Connects an AC adapter.
Security cable slot Attaches an optional security cable to the computer.
Blinking white: The hard drive is being accessed.
●
● Amber: HP 3D DriveGuard has temporarily parked the
hard drive.
NOTE: For information about HP 3D DriveGuard,
see Using HP 3D DriveGuard (select models only)
on page 55.
NOTE: For details about different types of USB ports, see
Using a USB device on page 46.
White: The AC adapter is connected and the battery is
●
charged.
● Blinking white: The battery has reached a low battery
level.
Amber: The AC adapter is connected and the battery
●
is charging.
Off: The computer is using DC power.
●
NOTE: The security cable is designed to act as a
deterrent, but it may not prevent the computer from being
mishandled or stolen.
Right side 5
Left side
Component Description
(1)
(2) Vents (2) Enable airflow to cool internal components.
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
External monitor port Connects an external VGA monitor or projector.
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.
HDMI port Connects an optional video or audio device, such as a
high-definition television, or any compatible digital or audio
device.
RJ-45 (network) jack Connects a network cable.
USB 3.0 ports (2) Connect optional USB 3.0 devices and provide enhanced
USB power performance.
NOTE: For details about different types of USB ports, see
Using a USB device on page 46.
Audio-in (microphone) jack Connects an optional computer headset microphone,
stereo array microphone, or monaural microphone.
6 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer
Component Description
(7)
(8) Digital Media Slot Supports the following digital card formats:
Audio-out (headphone) jack Connects optional powered stereo speakers, headphones,
earbuds, a headset, or a television audio cable.
WARNING! To reduce the risk of personal injury, adjust
the volume before using headphones, earbuds, or a
headset. For additional safety information, see the
Regulatory, Safety and Environmental Notices.
NOTE: When a device is connected to a headphone jack,
the computer speakers are disabled.
● Secure Digital (SD) Memory Card
Secure Digital Extended Capacity (SDxC) Memory
●
Card
● Secure Digital High Capacity (SDHC) Memory Card
● MultiMediaCard (MMC)
Left side 7
Display
Component Description
(1) WLAN antennas (2)* Send and receive wireless signals to communicate with wireless
(2) Internal microphone (1) Records sound.
(3) Webcam Records video, captures still photographs, and allows video
(4) Webcam light On: The webcam is in use.
*The antennas are not visible from the outside of the computer. For optimal transmission, keep the areas immediately
around the antennas free from obstructions. For wireless regulatory notices, see the section of the Regulatory, Safety, and
Environmental Notices that applies to your country or region. These notices are located in Help and Support.
local area networks (WLANs).
conferences and online chat by means of streaming video.
To use the webcam, select Start > All Programs >
Communication and Chat > CyberLink YouCam.
8 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer
Top
TouchPad
Component Description
(1) TouchPad on/off button Turns the TouchPad on or off.
(2) TouchPad light
(3) TouchPad zone Moves the on-screen pointer and selects or activates items
(4) Left TouchPad button Functions like the left button on an external mouse.
(5) Right TouchPad button Functions like the right button on an external mouse.
Amber: The TouchPad is off.
●
● Off: The TouchPad is on.
on the screen.
Top 9
Lights
Component Description
(1)
(2) Caps lock light White: Caps lock is on, which switches the keys to all capital
(3)
(4)
(5) TouchPad light ● Amber: The TouchPad is off.
Power light
Mute light
Wireless light
White: The computer is on.
●
● Blinking white: The computer is in the Sleep state,
which is an energy-saving mode. The computer shuts
off power to the display and other unneeded
components.
● Off: The computer is off or in Hibernation. Hibernation
is an energy-saving mode that uses the least amount
of power.
letters.
Amber: Computer sound is off.
●
● Off: Computer sound is on.
White: An integrated wireless device, such as a
●
wireless local area network (WLAN) device and/or a
Bluetooth® device, is on.
● Amber: All wireless devices are off.
Off: The TouchPad is on.
●
10 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer
Buttons and speakers
Component Description
(1)
(2) Speakers (2) Produce sound.
Power button
When the computer is off, press the button to turn on
●
the computer.
● When the computer is on, press the button briefly to
initiate Sleep.
When the computer is in the Sleep state, press the
●
button briefly to exit Sleep.
When the computer is in Hibernation, press the button
●
down briefly to exit Hibernation.
CAUTION: Pressing and holding down the power button
will result in the loss of unsaved information.
If the computer has stopped responding and Microsoft®
Windows® shutdown procedures are ineffective, press and
hold the power button down for at least 5 seconds to turn
off the computer.
To learn more about your power settings, select Start >
Control Panel > System and Security > Power Options,
or see
Managing power on page 36.
Top 11
Keys
Component Description
(1) esc key Displays system information when pressed in combination
(2) fn key Displays system information when pressed in combination
(3)
(4) Action keys Execute frequently used system functions.
(5)
(6) num lock key Controls the function of the integrated numeric keypad.
(7) Integrated numeric keypad Set at the factory to function like an external numeric
Windows logo key Displays the Windows Start menu.
Windows applications key Displays a shortcut menu for items beneath the cursor.
with the fn key.
with the esc key.
Press the key to alternate between the standard numeric
function of an external keypad (selected the factory) and
the navigational function (indicated by the directional
arrows on the keys).
NOTE: The keypad function that is active when the
computer is turned off is reinstated when the computer is
turned back on.
keypad. To alternate between this numeric function and the
navigational function (indicated by the directional arrows on
the keys), press the num lock key.
12 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer
Bottom
Component Description
(1) Battery bay Holds the battery.
(2)
(3) Vents (5) Enable airflow to cool internal components.
(4)
Battery release latch Releases the battery from the battery bay.
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.
Keyboard access, optical disk drive (ODD),
solid-state drive (SSD)/hard drive bay,
wireless compartment, and memory module
compartment
The service door provides access to the keyboard, ODD,
SSD/hard drive bay, wireless compartment and memory
module compartment.
CAUTION: To prevent an unresponsive system, replace
the wireless module only with a wireless module authorized
for use in the computer by the governmental agency that
regulates wireless devices in your country or region. If you
replace the module and then receive a warning message,
remove the module to restore computer functionality, and
then contact customer support through Help and Support.
Bottom 13
Labels
The labels affixed to the computer provide information you may need when you troubleshoot system
problems or travel internationally with the computer. The labels are in easily accessible locations.
●
Serial number label—Provides important information, including the following:
Component
(1) Product name
(2) Serial number
(3) Product part number
(4) Warranty period
(5) Model description
Have this information available when you contact technical support. The serial number is printed
on a label inside the battery bay of your computer.
Microsoft® Certificate of Authenticity—Contains the Windows Product Key. You may need the
●
Product Key to update or troubleshoot the operating system. The Microsoft Certificate of
Authenticity is located on the bottom of the computer.
Regulatory label—Provides regulatory information about the computer. The regulatory label is
●
affixed inside the battery bay.
Wireless certification label or labels—Provide information about wireless devices and the
●
approval markings of some of the countries or regions in which the devices have been approved
for use. 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 2 Getting to know your computer
3 Connecting to a network
Your computer can travel with you wherever you go. But even at home, you can explore the globe
and access information from millions of websites using your computer and a wired or wireless
network connection. This chapter will help you get connected to that world.
15
Connecting to a wireless network
Wireless technology transfers data across radio waves instead of wires. Your computer may be
equipped with one or more of the following wireless devices:
Wireless local area network (WLAN) device—Connects the computer to wireless local area
●
networks (commonly referred to as Wi-Fi networks, wireless LANs, or WLANs) in corporate
offices, your home, and public places such as airports, restaurants, coffee shops, hotels, and
universities. In a WLAN, the mobile wireless device in your computer 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, and phones. In a PAN, the computer communicates
directly with other devices. A device must be relatively close to the computer—typically within 10
meters (approximately 33 feet) of each other.
For more information about wireless technology, see the information and website links provided in
Help and Support.
Using the wireless controls
You can control the wireless devices in your computer using these features:
Wireless button, wireless switch, or wireless key (referred to in this chapter as the wireless
●
button)
HP Connection Manager software
●
Operating system controls
●
Using the wireless button
The computer has a wireless button, 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 button to turn on or
turn off the wireless devices simultaneously. Individual wireless devices can be controlled through HP
Connection Manager.
Using HP Connection Manager
HP Connection Manager provides a central location for managing the following wireless devices:
Wireless local area network (WLAN)/Wi-Fi
●
Bluetooth
●
HP Connection Manager provides information and notifications on connection status and power
status. Status information and notifications are provided in the notification area, at the far right of the
taskbar.
16 Chapter 3 Connecting to a network
To open HP Connection Manager, select Start > All Programs > HP Help and Support > HP
Connection Manager.
For more details about using HP Connection Manager, see the HP Connection Manager software
Help.
Using operating system controls
The Network and Sharing Center allows you to set up a connection or network, connect to a network,
manage wireless networks, and diagnose and repair network problems.
To use operating system controls, select Start > Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network
and Sharing Center.
For more information, select Start > Help and Support.
Using a WLAN
With a WLAN device, you can access a wireless local area network (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).
Using an Internet service provider
When you are setting up Internet access in your home, you must establish an account with an
Internet service provider (ISP). To purchase Internet service and a modem, contact a local ISP. The
ISP will help set up the modem, install a network cable to connect your wireless computer to the
modem, and test the Internet service.
NOTE: Your ISP will give you a user ID and a password to use for Internet access. Record this
information and store it in a safe place.
Connecting to a wireless network 17
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
A wireless router (2) (purchased separately)
●
A wireless computer (3)
●
NOTE: Some modems have a built-in wireless router. Check with your ISP to determine what type
of modem you have.
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, see the information provided by your router manufacturer or your
ISP.
Configuring a wireless router
For help in setting up a WLAN, see the information provided by your router manufacturer or your ISP.
NOTE: It is recommended that you initially connect your new wireless computer to the router by
using the network cable provided with the router. When the computer successfully connects to the
Internet, disconnect the cable, and access the Internet through your wireless network.
Protecting your WLAN
When you set up a WLAN or access an existing WLAN, always enable security features to protect
your network from unauthorized access. WLANs in public areas (hotspots) like coffee shops and
airports may not provide any security. If you are concerned about the security of your computer in a
hotspot, limit your network activities to email that is not confidential and basic Internet surfing.
Wireless radio signals travel outside the network, so other WLAN devices can pick up unprotected
signals. Take the following precautions to protect your WLAN:
Use a firewall.
●
A firewall checks both data and requests for data that are sent to your network, and discards any
suspicious items. Firewalls are available in both software and hardware. Some networks use a
combination of both types.
Use wireless encryption.
●
Wireless encryption uses security settings to encrypt and decrypt data that is transmitted over
the network. For more information, see Help and Support.
18 Chapter 3 Connecting to a network
Connecting to a WLAN
To connect to the WLAN, follow these steps:
1. Be sure that the WLAN device is on. If the device is on, the wireless light is on (white). If the
wireless light is amber, press the wireless button.
NOTE: On some models, the wireless light is amber when all wireless devices are off.
2. Click the network status icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar.
3. Select your WLAN from the list.
4. Click Connect.
If the WLAN is a security-enabled WLAN, you are prompted to enter a security code. Type the
code, and then click OK to complete the connection.
NOTE: If no WLANs are listed, you may be out of range of a wireless router or access point.
NOTE: If you do not see the WLAN you want to connect to, click Open Network and Sharing
Center, and then click Set up a new connection or network. A list of options is displayed,
allowing you to manually search for and connect to a network or to create a new network
connection.
After the connection is made, place the mouse pointer over the network status icon in the notification
area, at the far right of the taskbar, to verify the name and status of the connection.
NOTE: The functional range (how far your wireless signals travel) depends on WLAN
implementation, router manufacturer, and interference from other electronic devices or structural
barriers such as walls and floors.
Using Bluetooth wireless devices (select models only)
A Bluetooth device provides short-range wireless communications that replace the physical cable
connections that traditionally link electronic devices such as the following:
Computers (desktop, notebook, PDA)
●
● Phones (cellular, cordless, smart phone)
Imaging devices (printer, camera)
●
Audio devices (headset, speakers)
●
Mouse
●
Bluetooth devices provide peer-to-peer capability that allows you to set up a personal area network
(PAN) of Bluetooth devices. For information about configuring and using Bluetooth devices, see the
Bluetooth software Help.
Connecting to a wireless network 19
Connecting to a wired network
Your computer supports a local area network (LAN) wired connection. A LAN connection uses a
network cable and is much faster than a modem, which uses telephone cable. LAN (RJ-45) cables
are sold separately.
WARNING! To reduce the risk of electric shock, fire, or damage to the equipment, do not plug a
modem cable or telephone cable into an RJ-45 (network) jack.
Connecting to a local area network (LAN)
Use a LAN connection if you want to connect the computer directly to a router in your home (instead
of working wirelessly), or if you want to connect to an existing network at your office.
Connecting to a LAN requires an 8-pin, RJ-45 network cable.
To connect the network cable, follow these steps:
1. Plug the network cable into the network jack (1) on the computer.
2. Plug the other end of the network cable into a network wall jack (2) or router.
NOTE: If the network cable contains noise suppression circuitry (3), which prevents
interference from TV and radio reception, orient the circuitry end of the cable toward the
computer.
20 Chapter 3 Connecting to a network
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