HP COMPAQ PRESARIO CQ5300 User Manual

Getting Started

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Getting Started

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Table of Contents

Setting Up Your Computer........................................................................... 1

Checking the Computer Installation .............................................................................. 1

Connecting Speakers or Microphones .......................................................................... 4

Connecting to a Network............................................................................................ 6

Connecting a Modem ................................................................................................ 7

Connecting the Television Signal and Video Cables....................................................... 7

Preparing to Use Your Computer............................................................... 13

Turning Off the Computer ......................................................................................... 14

Restarting the Computer............................................................................................ 14

Connecting to the Internet ......................................................................................... 14

Adjusting the Speaker Volume................................................................................... 16

Selecting the Microphone ......................................................................................... 16

Protecting Your Computer ......................................................................................... 17

Configuring the Computer for Automatic Microsoft Software Updates............................. 18

Setting Up User Accounts.......................................................................................... 19

Guidelines for Installing Software and Hardware Devices ............................................. 19

Transferring Files and Settings from an Old Computer to Your New Computer ................ 20

Special Features of Your Computer............................................................ 21

Using the Memory Card Reader ................................................................................ 21

Using a Vertical CD/DVD Drive................................................................................. 23

Using LightScribe Technology.................................................................................... 23

Using the Remote Control.......................................................................................... 24

Getting More Information .........................................................................25

Using the Help and Support Center............................................................................ 25

Accessing Support on the Web ................................................................................. 25

Finding Guides on the Web...................................................................................... 25

Finding Onscreen Guides ......................................................................................... 26

Using the PC Help & Tools Folder .............................................................................. 26

Using HP Advisor Software ....................................................................................... 26

Using the Computer with Safety and Comfort .............................................................. 27

Troubleshooting and Maintenance.............................................................29

Troubleshooting Computer Problems........................................................................... 29

Software Troubleshooting ......................................................................................... 45

Maintenance........................................................................................................... 48

Keeping the Computer Free of Dust, Dirt, and Heat...................................................... 49

System Recovery...................................................................................................... 50

Performing the Post-Recovery Procedure...................................................................... 54

Additional Troubleshooting ....................................................................................... 54

Index........................................................................................................ 55

Table of Cont e n t s iii

iv Getting Started (features vary by model)

Setting Up Your Computer

WARNING: The power supply is preset for the country/region in which you purchased your computer. If you move, please check the voltage requirements for your new location before plugging the computer into an AC power outlet.

WARNING: Please read “Safety Notices” in the Regulatory and Safety Information document before installing and connecting the computer to the electrical power system.

WARNING: To reduce the risk of serious injury, read the Safety & Comfort Guide. It describes proper workstation setup, posture, and health and work habits for computer users. It also provides important electrical and mechanical safety information.

Follow the steps on the setup poster to set up the computer:

1 Connect a keyboard and a mouse to the computer. 2 Connect a display (monitor) to the computer. 3 Connect power to the computer. 4 Turn on the computer. See “Preparing to Use Your Computer” on page 13.

NOTE: Do not connect or add other devices to the computer until after you turn on the

computer for the first time and complete the initial setup. See “Preparing to Use Your Computer” on page 13.

Checking the Computer Installation

 Place the computer in an appropriate location so that:

 All ventilation openings are unobstructed.  All cabling is out of the way. Do not place any cable in a walkway or where it can

be stepped on or damaged from placing furniture on it.

WARNING: Place the computer in a location away from water, dust, moisture, and soot. These can increase the inside temperature, causing fire, trouble, and electrification.

Setting Up Your Computer 1

 Protect the monitor, computer, and connected accessories by connecting all power cords

to a power surge protection device. Use a power strip specifically labeled as having surge protection, an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), or a similar device.

If the computer has a television tuner, or a modem or telephone connection, protect the computer by using surge protection with these signal inputs as well. Connect the television cable or the telephone line cord to the inputs and outputs of the surge protection device and then to the computer.

 Look in the computer box for additional printed details or updates regarding your

computer.

Connecting other devices to the computer

Some peripheral devices can plug into connectors on the back of the computer or on the front of the computer.

NOTE: The location, availability, and number of connectors on the computer may vary.

Power cord and devices

Icon/label Description and function

Power connector.

Mouse (PS/2 connector).

Keyboard (PS/2 connector).

Universal Serial Bus (USB) 2.0 for mouse, keyboard, digital cameras, or other devices with USB connectors.

2 Getting Started (features vary by model)

Network Icon/label Description and function

ETHERNET Ethernet LAN connector to connect to an Ethernet

(RJ-45) local area network (LAN) hub or any broadband connection. This wired LAN connector is a network interface adapter (also called a network interface card, or NIC). The green LED indicates a valid connection.

Modem Icon/label Description and function

Modem (Line In RJ-11) (select models only) to connect the computer modem to a telephone wall jack for dial-up connections to the Internet.

Display video output

Icon/label Description and function

NOTE: For specific information, see the documentation that came with the display device.

DVI Recommended for connecting to a monitor. Digital

video output connector (select models only), to connect to a TV or monitor. You may need to use a VGA-to-DVI or an HDMI-to-DVI adapter to connect the display to the computer.

VGA/Monitor VGA/Monitor (blue) display output connector, to

connect to a VGA monitor. You may need to use a VGA-to-DVI adapter to connect a display with only a DVI connector to the computer.

HDMI Recommended for connecting to a TV. HDMI display

output connector, to connect to an HDMI monitor or TV display. You may need to use an HDMI-to-DVI adapter to connect a display with only a DVI connector to the computer.

VGA-DVI VGA-to-DVI adapter, to adapt a TV or a monitor

video cable so it can connect to the computer.

HDMI-DVI HDMI-to-DVI adapter, to adapt a TV or a monitor

video cable so it can connect to the computer.

Setting Up Your Computer 3

Connecting Speakers or Microphones

Speakers are available separately, or may be included with the monitor (select models only). Headphones and microphones are available separately.

Your computer model may include audio connectors on the back of the computer. Some computers also have connectors on the front of the computer. Audio connectors are stereo mini-jacks that connect from the computer to active (powered) speakers or speaker systems, to headphones, or to an input device such as a microphone, webcam, or audio player.

Some, but not all, audio connectors that may be on the computer appear in the following table.

NOTE: The location, availability, and number of connectors on the computer may vary.

Connecting speakers

Speakers are available separately, or included with the monitor. Your computer supports only active (powered) speaker systems; the speaker system must have

its own power source, such as batteries or a separate power cord. For detailed instructions about how to connect and configure other multichannel speakers, go

to the Web support page for your model; see “Accessing Support on the Web” on page 25.

Audio connectors Icon/label Description and function

Audio Line Out (lime green) to connect front left and front right analog speakers.

Audio Line In (blue) connector to connect input to the computer from an analog audio device, such as a CD player.

May function as rear Line Out in a multichannel audio configuration.

Center Line C/Sub (gold) connector to connect

Center/Subwoofer speakers in a multichannel audio configuration.

Rear Line Rear (black) connector to connect rear

speakers in a multichannel audio configuration.

Side Line Side (gray) connector to connect side

speakers in an eight-speaker system (7.1).

4 Getting Started (features vary by model)

Connecting a stereo speaker system

To connect active speakers, such as left/right stereo speakers or a 2.1 system of two speakers and a subwoofer, to the computer:

1 Ensure that the computer is turned off, and that the speaker system is turned off and

unplugged.

2 Connect the speaker system cable to the lime green Audio Line Out connector that

matches the back of your computer. Or For 2.1 speakers or other multichannel speakers that were shipped with your computer

(select models only), connect the subwoofer to the Audio Line Out connector on the computer, and connect the left and right speakers to the subwoofer.

NOTE: Always turn on the computer before you turn on the speaker system.

Connecting headphones

Headphones are available separately. Your computer comes with a headphones connector (lime green) on the front of the

computer. The headphones connector is labeled with a headphones icon. You can also connect headphones to the Audio Line Out connector (lime green) on

the back of your computer. When headphones are plugged in, the sound to the speakers (and the subwoofer) is

usually muted.

Connecting a microphone

Microphones are available separately. Your computer comes with a microphone connector (pink) on the back of the computer. Some

models have a second microphone connector on the front of the computer (select models only).

Connect the microphone to the microphone connector on the computer.

To adjust the recording volume or select the microphone, see “Selecting the Microphone” on page 16.

Setting Up Your Computer 5

Connecting to a Network

This section describes connecting to a network through a wired or wireless connection.

Setting up a wired Ethernet network connection

The Ethernet (RJ-45) connector on the back of the computer provides a high-speed or broadband connection to a network. After you connect this interface to a network, such as a Local Area Network (LAN), you can connect to the Internet through the network.

1 Connect an Ethernet cable to the Ethernet (RJ-45) connector (A) on the back of the

computer, and to the network router or LAN device.

2 With the computer turned on, check the indicator lights (B) next to the Ethernet connector

for the status:

 ACTIVITY — Lit yellow during network data transfer activity  LINK — Lit green when there is a valid network connection

NOTE: Your Ethernet connector may have only one indicator light.

Setting up a wireless network connection

(Select models only) You can connect the computer to a wireless network supporting IEEE 802.11b, 802.11g, or

802.11n by using the antenna that is included with the computer. If provided, connect the external antenna to the wireless antenna connector on the network card to increase the range and sensitivity of the wireless radio signal.

NOTE: For the best wireless performance, place the antenna on the top of the computer or in an elevated and open area.

You need an existing wireless LAN with an Internet connection. Consult your Internet Service Provider (ISP) for further information.

To verify that the integrated WLAN device is installed on the computer correctly, see “Internet access” on page 37.

For more information about setting up a wireless network: Click the Windows Start button , click Help and Support, and then type setting up a wireless network into the

Search Help box and press Enter.

6 Getting Started (features vary by model)

Connecting a Modem

(Select models only) The modem connects the computer to the telephone line. Use it to connect to an ISP that

provides a telephone dial-up connection to the Internet. If you use a network connection, you may not need a modem connection.

NOTE: Your computer may not come with a modem. The modem may be a connector on the back of the computer or it may be an external device that plugs into a computer USB connector.

Before you can use telephone dial-up to connect to the Internet and send or receive e-mail and faxes, you must connect your telephone service line to the modem connector (A).

1 Plug a modem/telephone cable into the computer modem connector (A). Note that the

modem connector on the computer may be green.

2 Plug the other end of the modem/telephone cable into the telephone service line wall

jack connector.

Connecting the Television Signal and Video Cables

(Select models only) This section describes how to connect the computer to a television and which cables to use. Use cables to connect:

 TV signal source coaxial cable for video/audio into the computer.

 TV signal source S-video or composite video into the computer.  TV signal source audio into the computer.

 Video out from the computer.

You may need to purchase cables, a coaxial cable signal splitter, or other accessories separately. Your computer may not include all the cables you need for the television/video setup.

Setting Up Your Computer 7

Video and audio input

Icon/label Description and function

S-Video S-video In connector to connect video input from a

TV set-top box output connector.

Composite Video

Composite Video In connector (yellow) to connect video input from a TV set-top box.

S-Video 2 Secondary S-video In connector to connect video

input from a VCR, video camera, or other analog video source.

Composite Video 2

Secondary Composite Video In connector (yellow) to connect video input from a VCR, video camera, or other analog source.

A/V In Audio 1 L

Primary left Audio In connector to connect audio input from a TV set-top box connector (white).

NOTE: You can record audio by using this Audio In connector, which is connected to the motherboard. Some computers include this primary left audio input connector on the front of the computer.

A/V In Audio 1 R

Primary right Audio In connector to connect audio input from a TV set-top box connector (red).

NOTE: You can record audio by using this Audio In connector, which is connected to the motherboard. Some computers include this primary right audio input connector on the front of the computer.

A/V In Audio 2 L

Secondary left Audio In input connector (white). NOTE: This Audio In connector is connected to the

TV tuner. To record or listen to audio only, you must use the primary Audio In connector, which is connected to the motherboard and located on the back of the computer.

A/V In Audio 2 R

Secondary right Audio In input connector (red). NOTE: This Audio In connector is connected to the

TV tuner. To record or listen to audio only, you must use the primary Audio In connector, which is connected to the motherboard and located on the back of the computer.

8 Getting Started (features vary by model)

Television output

Television input

Icon/label Description and function

Analog Video Analog Video Out connector to connect S-video or

composite video connector to a TV.

Icon/label Description and function

TV/Cable Ant TV In connector to connect TV antenna or cable

input from wall outlet with no set-top box.

ATSC TV In connector for TV cable or antenna, to receive

ATSC (Advanced Television System Committee) channels, which are over-the-air digital transmission channels.

CATV TV In connector for TV cable or antenna, to receive

CATV (Community Antenna Television) channels or cable TV channels.

NTSC TV In connector for TV cable or antenna, to receive

NTSC (National Television System Committee) channels, which are over-the-air analog transmission channels.

Setting Up Your Computer 9

Connecting the TV signal source without a set-top box

To connect the computer into an existing setup for the TV signal source without a set-top box, insert (add) a splitter (B) to route the coaxial TV signal cable from the wall outlet (A) to the computer connector (C).

Callouts

A TV signal cable (coaxial) wall outlet (from

antenna or cable)

B Splitter C Computer coaxial TV In connector D Video recorder E TV

Connecting the TV signal source with a set-top box

To connect the computer into an existing setup for the TV signal source with a set-top box (cable or satellite), insert (add) a splitter (B) to route the coaxial TV signal cable from the set-top box (F) to the computer connector (C).

Connect the remote control cable/IR blaster (select models only) (G) to the IR OUT connector on the computer, and then position the blaster on the set-top box. This enables the computer to change the channel on the set-top box. See “Using an infrared receiver (IR) blaster” on page 12 for IR blaster placement details.

Callouts

A TV signal cable (coaxial) wall outlet

(from antenna or cable)

B Splitter C Computer coaxial TV In connector D Video recorder E TV F Set-top box/satellite box G Remote control IR blaster cable (select

models only)

10 Getting Started (features vary by model)

Connecting the TV signal source with a set-top box and using S-video or composite video cable

To use video output from the set-top box (F), add the cables to route video and audio to the computer:

 Do not detach any cables from the

existing setup.

 Connect an S-video cable (or you can

use an S-video-to-composite cable adapter) to the S-Video In connector (H) on the computer.

 Connect audio cables to the Audio In

right (red) and left (white) connectors (J) on the computer.

 Connect the remote control cable/IR

blaster (select models only) (G) to the IR OUT connector on the computer, and then position the blaster on the set-top box. This enables the computer to change the channel on the box. See “Using an infrared receiver (IR) blaster” on page 12 for blaster placement details.

Callouts

A TV signal cable (coaxial) wall outlet (from

antenna or cable)

B Splitter C Computer coaxial TV In connector D Video recorder E TV F Set-top box/satellite box G Remote control IR blaster cable (select models only) H Computer S-video In connector

J Computer right and left Audio In (analog) connectors

Setting Up Your Computer 11

Using an infrared receiver (IR) blaster

(Select models only) If you have a cable TV or satellite TV set-top box, you can control the set-top box from the

computer by using the remote control sensor cable/IR blaster (select models only) and the connector on the computer (not available on all models). Remove the tape (1) on the end of the blaster, adhere it to the IR receiver on the set-top box (2), and connect it to the IR OUT connector (3) on the back of the computer. Point the remote control at the remote control sensor on the front top of the computer.

IR IN

IR OUT

Using an external IR receiver

(Select models only) If you do not have a direct line of sight to the remote sensor on the front of the computer, you

can use an external IR receiver and place the IR receiver in a location that can receive a signal from the remote control.

Connect the external receiver to the red IR IN connector on the back of the computer (1). Place the IR receiver (2) in a location with a direct line of sight to the remote control. Point the remote control (3) at the external IR receiver.

12 Getting Started (features vary by model)

Preparing to Use Your Computer

After you have completed the steps on the setup poster, you are ready to turn on the computer.

NOTE: Do not connect or add other devices to the computer until after you turn on the computer for the first time and complete the initial setup.

To turn on the computer:

1 Turn on the monitor. 2 Turn on the computer. 3 Turn on the external speakers, if they are present.

4 Set up the computer and Microsoft

instructions:

 If prompted, select the country/region in which you are physically located, and

wait while the computer makes preparations. (When you select an alternate language, it may take up to 30 minutes for this one-time language setup on the computer.)

 Follow the onscreen instructions to register, sign up for updates, and get online.

5 When you see the

For help with getting started using your computer, see the remaining topics in this section.

Windows 7 desktop, the initial setup is complete.

Windows®7 by following the onscreen

NOTE: If you skip some steps during the initial setup procedure or decline some options, you will be reminded to complete the setup at a later time.

Preparing to Use Your Computer 13

Turning Off the Computer

For best results when using Windows 7, do not shut down the computer except when you must turn off the power for safety reasons: to make repairs, to install new hardware or cards in the computer, or to change a battery.

As an alternative to shutting down the computer, you can lock it or put it into either Sleep or Hibernate mode, if it is available. You can set the power management timers to put the computer automatically into Sleep or Hibernate mode.

The computer has these reduced power states:

 Sleep mode saves your work to memory, so you can resume quickly. It saves

memory to the hard disk drive, and then goes into a reduced-power state. During Sleep mode, the computer hardware light remains on, and the computer is ready to wake quickly and resume your work where you left off. If it is present, simply press the Sleep button on the keyboard to enter sleep mode.

 Hibernate mode (available as an advanced power setting) saves the system memory

to a temporary file on the hard disk and then turns off the hardware. When you turn on the computer again, the programs, folders, and documents that you had open are restored to the screen.

Restarting the Computer

When you restart the computer, the computer clears some settings and starts over using the operating system and software in its memory. Restarting is the easiest and most effective way to solve many software issues for the computer.

Also, you may want to install additional software programs or hardware devices onto the computer, and doing so may require that you restart the computer after installation.

To restart the computer:

1 Click the Start button. 2 Click the Arrow button next to Shut Down. 3 Click Restart.

Or Quickly press the On button on the front of the computer.

Connecting to the Internet

Connecting to the Internet requires that you:

1 Purchase high-speed Internet service from an Internet service provider (ISP). 2 Purchase a broadband modem (DSL or cable). This may be provided by the ISP. 3 Purchase and install a wireless router (sold separately), if one is required.

The computer can connect to the Internet through a local area network (LAN) or digital subscriber line (DSL). Check with your Internet Service Provider (ISP) for specific information on the connection.

14 Getting Started (features vary by model)

1 Refer to “Setting Up Your Computer” on page 1 to make the hardware connections.

You need:

 For a network connection, see “Connecting to a Network” on page 6. To check a

wireless LAN device installation, see “Internet access” on page 37.

 For a modem, see “Connecting a Modem” on page 7.

2 To connect to the Internet:

 Sign up with an ISP. If you already have an account with an ISP, skip this step and

follow the instructions provided by the ISP.

 If you did not set up the computer for Internet service during the initial setup, do so

now by using Online Services:

a Click the Start button. b Click All Programs. c Click Online Services, and then click Get Online. d Follow the onscreen instructions to select an ISP and set up Internet service.

NOTE: Online Services provides a list of ISPs; however, you may choose another

ISP or transfer an existing account to this computer. To transfer existing accounts, follow the instructions provided by the ISP.

3 Connect to the Internet. You must connect through your ISP.

 For dial-up only, double-click the ISP-provided icon on the desktop, and then log in.

4 Open your Web browser and browse the Internet.

You can use any Web browser; most computers have Microsoft Internet Explorer

. To

open Internet Explorer:

a Click the Start button. b Click All Programs, and then click Internet Explorer.

NOTE: If you have issues connecting to the Internet, see “Internet access” on page 37.

Using wireless security features

When you set up a home WLAN or access an existing public WLAN, always enable security features to protect the network from unauthorized access. The most common security levels are Wi-Fi Protected Access Personal (WPA-Personal) and Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP).

When setting up a network, use one or more of the following security measures:

 Enable WPA-Personal or WEP security encryption on the router.  Change the default network name (SSID) and password.  Set up a firewall.  Set security on your Web browser.

Preparing to Use Your Computer 15

Adjusting the Speaker Volume

There are several ways to adjust volume. Use the Volume icon on the Windows 7 taskbar to set speaker volume. Then, you can adjust the volume by using:

 The Volume knob or buttons on the keyboard (select models only).  The Volume knob on the speakers (select models only).

To set speaker volume, use the Volume icon on the taskbar:

1 Right-click the Volume icon on the taskbar, and then click Open Volume

Mixer.

The Volume Mixer settings window opens.

2 Adjust the volume by clicking the slider bar and moving it. 3 When you are satisfied with the sound level, close the window by clicking the X in the

upper-right corner.

For help with audio, check the troubleshooting items in “Audio and speakers” on page 36. For more information, open the Help and Support Center or refer to the Support Web site; see “Getting More Information” on page 25.

Selecting the Microphone

The microphone connector on your computer is ready to use. If you have more than one microphone connected, select the microphone that you would like to use in Windows 7.

NOTE: When you have a webcam or an audio player connected to the computer, because of the audio input from the device, Windows 7 may recognize each as a microphone input.

To select the microphone that you would like to use in Windows 7:

1 Right-click the Volume icon on the taskbar, and then click Recording

Devices. The Sound window opens.

2 Select the Microphone that you want to use, click Set Default, and then click

Apply.

3 Click OK.

Adjusting microphone recording level in Windows 7

To adjust the recording level of the microphone:

1 Right-click the Volume icon on the taskbar, and then click Recording

Devices. The Sound window opens.

2 Double-click the microphone connector that you want to use. 3 Click the Levels tab. 4 Adjust the recording level for the microphone by clicking the slider bar and moving it. 5 Click OK, and then click OK again.

16 Getting Started (features vary by model)

Protecting Your Computer

Protect your computer, personal settings, and data from a variety of risks by using:

 Passwords.  Antivirus software.  Firewall software.  Critical security updates.

NOTE: Security solutions are designed to act as deterrents, but they may not be able to prevent software attacks or to prevent the computer from being mishandled or stolen.

Computer risk Computer feature

Unauthorized use of the computer or user account

Computer viruses Antivirus program

Unauthorized access to data Firewall program

Unauthorized access to Setup Utility, BIOS settings, and other system identification information

Ongoing or future threats to the computer Windows 7 critical security updates from

User password

Windows 7 updates

Administrator password

Microsoft

Using passwords

A password is a group of characters that you choose to secure the computer information. Several types of passwords can be set, depending on how you want to control access to your information. Passwords can be set in the Windows 7 operating system on the computer.

CAUTION: To avoid being locked out of the computer, record each password you set. Because passwords are not displayed as they are set, changed, or deleted, it is essential to record each password immediately and store it in a secure place. Do not store passwords in a file on the computer.

You can use the same password for more than one Windows 7 security feature. A password set in Windows 7 must be entered at a Windows 7 prompt.

For information on Windows 7 passwords: Click the Start button, click Help and Support, and then type passwords into the Search Help box and press Enter. See “Using the Help and Support Center” on page 25.

Preparing to Use Your Computer 17

Using antivirus software

When you use the computer for e-mail, network, or Internet access, you expose it to computer viruses. Computer viruses can disable or damage the operating system, software programs, or computer utilities.

Antivirus software can detect most viruses, remove them, and, in most cases, repair any damage that they have caused. To provide ongoing protection against newly discovered viruses, you must keep the antivirus software up to date.

The antivirus program, which is preinstalled on the computer, includes antivirus and firewall components. The software includes a free trial subscription of protection updates. To protect the computer against new viruses beyond the trial period, purchase an extended update service. Instructions for using and updating the antivirus software, and for purchasing extended update service, are provided within the program.

For more information about computer viruses: Click the Start button, click Help and Support, and then type viruses into the Search Help box and press Enter. See “Using the Help and Support Center” on page 25.

Using firewall software

When you use the computer for e-mail, network, or Internet access, unauthorized persons may be able to gain access to information about you, your computer, and your data. To protect your privacy, use firewall software:

 Windows 7 includes firewall software preinstalled on the computer.  The antivirus program, which is preinstalled on the computer, includes a firewall

program.

Firewall features include logging, reporting, and automatic alarms to monitor all incoming and outgoing communications.

Under some circumstances, a firewall can block access to Internet games, interfere with printer or file sharing on a network, or block authorized e-mail attachments. To solve the problem temporarily, disable the firewall, perform the task that you want to perform, and then enable the firewall again. To resolve the problem permanently, reconfigure the firewall.

Configuring the Computer for Automatic Microsoft Software Updates

Microsoft continually updates the Windows 7 operating system. Run Windows 7 Update monthly to install these updates, or keep the operating system up to date by using the Automatic Updates feature.

When you are connected to the Internet, Windows 7 Update automatically notifies you (through a pop-up message or icon in the notification area) when critical updates are available. When you see the Windows 7 Update message, allow the updates to download to your system. If you update the system weekly, or even monthly, the time required for download is minimal.

18 Getting Started (features vary by model)

Installing critical security updates

CAUTION: To reduce the risk of information damage or loss from security breaches and computer viruses, install all critical updates from Microsoft as soon as you receive an alert.

Additional updates to the operating system and other software may have become available after the computer was shipped. Download all available updates and install them onto the computer.

Setting Up User Accounts

When you share a computer with several people, you can set up a user account for each computer user. Windows 7 uses the information in the user account to determine what files and folders the computer user can access, when they can make changes to the computer, and their personal preferences. Each person can access only their own files and settings.

For more information, click the Start button, click Help and Support, and then type User Accounts into the Search Help box and press Enter. See “Using the Help and Support Center” on page 25.

Guidelines for Installing Software and Hardware Devices

After you set up the computer and complete the initial setup, you may want to install additional software programs or hardware devices. Keep in mind the following important guidelines:

 Before installation, make a restore point by using the Microsoft System Restore program.

The restore point is a snapshot of the computer settings. By using System Restore, you

ensure that you have a stable set of settings to use.

 Choose software that is compatible with the computer; check the operating system,

memory, and other requirements listed for the new software.

 Install the new software according to the directions provided by the software

manufacturer. If you need help, check the manufacturer documentation or customer

service information.

 For antivirus software, uninstall the existing software program before reinstalling it or

installing a new antivirus program.

NOTE: Use only licensed original software. Installing copied software may be illegal, or may result in an unstable installation, or it may infect the computer with a virus.

Preparing to Use Your Computer 19

Transferring Files and Settings from an Old Computer to Your New Computer

You can copy files from the old computer to your new computer by using CDs or DVDs, memory sticks, or personal media drives, or by using the Windows Easy Transfer cable. To transfer files and copy certain settings, such as Web browser Favorites and address books, use Windows Easy Transfer software, which is included with Windows 7.

Windows Easy Transfer software guides you to copy files and settings to a storage device or, using an Easy Transfer Cable, to the new computer. The Easy Transfer Cable is a USB cable designed specifically to connect two computers and to work with the Windows Easy Transfer software. (The cable is sold separately.) A standard USB cable does not work.

To transfer your files and settings:

1 Click the Start button. 2 Type Windows Easy Transfer into the Start Search box, and then click Windows Easy

Transfer.

3 Follow the onscreen instructions in the Windows Easy Transfer Wizard to transfer your

files from an old computer to your new one.

For more information, click the Start button, click Help and Support, and then type moving files into the Search Help box and press Enter. See “Using the Help and Support Center” on page 25.

20 Getting Started (features vary by model)

Special Features of Your Computer

Using the Memory Card Reader

(Select models only) Your computer may come with a multi-format memory card reader (optional, select models

only). Digital cameras and other digital imaging devices use memory cards, or media, to store digital picture files. The memory card reader can read from and write to a variety of types of memory cards and the IBM Microdrive disk drive.

 The card reader is accessible directly on the front of the computer. It has two or four

horizontal card slots which accept the media.

 You can place media in one or more of the card slots and use each media

independently. Place only one piece of media in a slot at one time.

 Each card slot has its own drive letter and icon. When you insert media, the display

label may change to the title of the media, if a title is available.

 When you insert media, the Safely Remove Hardware window may appear. If it opens,

or if you open the Safely Remove Hardware window by mistake, click Close.

CAUTION: Do not click Stop in the Safely Remove Hardware window with the USB Mass Storage Device selected. Doing so removes the operating system recognition of the memory card reader from your computer, and you must restart the computer to see the memory card reader again.

Memory card reader

The activity light (A) blinks to indicate that the computer is accessing the memory card to read or write.

Special Features of Your Computer 21

To use the memory card reader:

1 Insert the media into the card slot until it stops.

The activity light (A) on the memory card reader lights, and the computer automatically

detects the media.

NOTE: You must insert media correctly. Note the direction of the notched corner on the

media. For more information, open the Help and Support Center or refer to the Support

Web site; see “Getting More Information” on page 25.

Also:

 CompactFlash and Microdrive media are keyed and cannot be inserted incorrectly.

Insert the receptacle edge (holes) of this media into the slot.

 Some memory cards, such as CF Ultra/III, are not compatible with the memory

card reader that came with your computer.

 Do not use SM and xD media in the memory card reader at the same time. The

reader recognizes only the first one that is inserted.

2 Select a program to access your files. You can copy files from or to the media.

If the AutoPlay window does not open, click the Start button, click Computer, and

then double-click the Memory Card icon to display the files on the media. You can

copy files from or to the media.

3 When you are finished, right-click the drive icon, click Eject, check that the memory

card reader activity light is on or off, but not blinking, and then remove the media.

CAUTION: Do not try to remove media when the activity light is blinking. Doing so may cause loss of data.

22 Getting Started (features vary by model)

Using a Vertical CD/DVD Drive

(Select models only) Your computer may have an optical disc drive that is installed in a vertical position. Press the

Eject button on or near the drive door (A) to eject the CD/DVD tray. Place a standard-sized disc in the tray with the label facing out, and then press the front of the tray to close it.

Using LightScribe Technology

(Select models only)

What is LightScribe?

LightScribe is an innovative technology that uses a special disc drive, special media (LightScribe-writable CDs or DVDs), and label-making software to burn labels directly onto the disc. A LightScribe-enabled CD or DVD drive uses the optical laser in the drive to burn a label onto a thin dye coating on the label side of the disc. There is no ink to smear or paper to curl, and there are no adhesives to loosen.

LightScribe requirements

Burning a label with LightScribe requires three things:

 A LightScribe-enabled optical disc drive (select models only), identified by

the LightScribe logo

 Labeling software that supports LightScribe  A writable LightScribe disc (sold separately)

Making a LightScribe label by using CyberLink LabelPrint

You may burn data, music, and videos to the disc before or after labeling it. For more information about making a LightScribe label:

1 Click the Start button, and then click Help and Support. 2 Type Lightscribe in the Search Help box, and then press Enter.

Special Features of Your Computer 23

Using the Remote Control

(Select models only)

NOTE: Only use alkaline batteries in the remote control.

With your remote control, you can open Windows Media Center to view television broadcasts, to record and play TV programs, and to play music, movies, or video.

To open Windows Media Center, point the remote control at the remote control sensor on the top front of the computer, and press the Windows Media Center Start button on the remote control.

To use the remote control, point it in a direct line of sight at the remote sensor. The remote control and the sensor can be no farther than 8 meters apart. The remote control can be no more than 22.5 degrees (45 degrees total) from the center of the remote sensor.

NOTE: Bright, direct light aimed toward the sensor might interfere with the remote control operation.

24 Getting Started (features vary by model)

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