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®
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WARNING: Text set off in this manner
indicates that failure to follow directions
could result in bodily harm or loss of life.
CAUTION: Text set off in this manner
indicates that failure to follow directions
could result in damage to equipment or loss
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Contents
1 Setting Up the PC
Turning On the PC for the First Time . . . . . 1–2
Follow the steps shown in the Quick Setup guide
to set up the PC. Read the topics in this section
describing how to turn on the PC for the first time,
and finish the registration process.
Getting Started1–1
After registering, install any software programs
that came on CDs or DVDs included in the PC box
(select models only).
Setting Up the PC
Turning On the
PC for the First Time
1. Press the Power button on the monitor.
2. Press the Power button on the front of the PC.
3. Click an option to select your language (if
applicable for your model). Click OK, and
then confirm your selection by clicking Yes.
Wait while the PC makes preparations. (It may
take up to 30 minutes to set up the language
on the PC.)
®
4. Set up Microsoft
onscreen instructions.
1–2Getting Started
Windows® by following the
Registering with Compaq
As part of the initial setup in some
countries/regions, you are prompted to register the
PC with Compaq (select models only). It’s important
to register so that you can be notified of changes
and updates to the Compaq Presario.
To register, either:
■ Follow the onscreen instructions during the
initial setup, and register as soon as you have
a modem connection.
Or
■ If you did not register during the initial setup
of your PC, double-click the registration icon
on your desktop, and follow the onscreen
instructions.
Setting Up the PC
Recovery CDs
Make recovery CDs for your PC now, before
a need occurs. If the hard disk drive is ever
damaged, or you have to replace it, you must
use recovery CDs that you create to reinstall the
operating system and software. Refer to “Using
Compaq Recovery CD Creator” on page 6–7.
Getting Started1–3
Working in Comfort
After assembling your PC, but before you begin
using it, make sure the PC and your work area
are properly set up to maintain your comfort and
productivity. Refer to the Safety and Comfort Guide
for important ergonomic information. To view this
information either:
■ Click Start, All Programs, Compaq,
Compaq pc tools, and then click
Safety and Comfort Guide.
Or
■ Type http://www.compaq.com/ergo/
into your Web Browser address box,
and then press Enter on the keyboard.
Setting Up the PC
1–4Getting Started
2
Getting Information and Updates
Use this guide as your first point of reference, and
then refer to the following documents:
■ Quick Setup guide
■ Warranty and Support Guide
Getting Started2–1
The Compaq Web site provides answers to PC
support questions. You can also press the Internet
Help G button on your keyboard to access the
built-in Help and Support Centre.
Getting Information and Updates
When requesting PC support, include the following
information in your inquiry. Write it down now for
your future reference. (The serial number is on a
label attached to the chassis of your PC.)
Product Name: ______________________________
Model Name: _______________________________
Serial Number: ______________________________
Date of Purchase: ____________________________
2–2Getting Started
Warranty and
Support Guide
The Warranty and Support Guide describes the
Compaq commitment to repair or replace parts
during the PC’s warranty period, and lists
important Compaq telephone numbers.
3
Using the PC
The operation of your PC is controlled by two kinds
of software:
■ The Microsoft Windows operating system,
which governs the interaction of the PC’s
hardware, peripherals, and software
applications.
■ Software applications, such as Microsoft
Works, which perform specific functions.
Getting Started3–1
Information about using applications and
Microsoft Windows is in the printed manuals and
online Help. For Microsoft Windows, you can also
press the Internet Help G button on your keyboard
to access the built-in Help and Support Centre.
For additional details, see Chapter 8, “Upgrading
the PC.”
Using the PC
Using the Diskette (Floppy)
Drive
The diskette drive (select models only) uses a
3.5” diskette (or floppy disk) to store files. A
diskette can hold up to 1.44 MB of data. Once
information is copied onto a diskette, it remains
until you delete or overwrite it.
3–2Getting Started
■ To insert a diskette, hold it with the label facing
up and the arrow on the diskette pointing
toward the drive; then gently push the diskette
into the drive.
2
Inserting and removing a diskette
1
Using the PC
■ To remove a diskette, press the Eject button 1
on the diskette drive.
CAUTION: Wait until the diskette drive
activity is complete (the activity light 2 stops
glowing) before removing a diskette.
Removing a diskette, when the drive is
reading from or writing to the diskette,
can damage the diskette or the information
stored on it.
Remove the diskette from the drive, prior to shutting
down Microsoft Windows.
Getting Started3–3
Using the Hard Disk Drive
As you create and save files, download
information from the Internet, install applications,
or receive e-mail messages and attachments, your
hard disk drive storage space diminishes. The
amount of information you can store on your PC’s
hard disk drive depends on the size of the drive.
The PC comes with a hard disk drive that is
preloaded with software programs and a partition
within the hard disk drive that takes up a certain
amount of space on the hard disk drive.
The system recovery image is in a partition
area of the hard disk drive. This disk space
is not available for your use.
Using the PC
The partition:
■ Houses a backup version of the operating
system and the programs included with the PC.
■ Takes up about 5 GB of hard disk drive space,
reducing the total amount of space available
for your use.
To check the available space:
3. Click the hard disk drive you are checking,
usually labelled (C:).
The amount of free space is listed in the
Details area.
To learn how to perform maintenance tasks for the
hard disk drive, such as uninstalling unneeded
programs, or defragmenting the hard disk drive,
go to “Preventive Maintenance” on page 5–2.
1. Click the Start button.
2. Click My Computer.
3–4Getting Started
Using a CD or DVD Drive
Your PC may have one or two optical drives,
depending on the model you purchased.
Comparison of Drives and Actions
Allows you toCD-ROMCD-RWDVD-ROMDVD+RW/+R
Play CDs, CD-Rs, and CD-RWs ••••
Using the PC
Write/Re-write music or data
onto a CD
Play DVDs••
Create DVDs•
••
DVD-ROM and DVD+RW/+R drives take longer to
begin playback than CD drives because they must
determine the type of media being played.
Getting Started3–5
A DVD+R disc is compatible with more DVD
set-top players than a DVD+RW disc.
Using the PC
Using a Combo Drive
Some PCs have a combination drive (known as
a combo drive), which combines the functions of
two drives into one. These drives feature either a
DVD+RW/+R drive and a CD-RW drive, or a
DVD-ROM and a CD-RW drive.
If you insert:
■ A software program CD, it is available for use.
■ A music CD, a window opens for the program
that plays CDs. See “Playing Music”
on page 3–8.
3–6Getting Started
■ A DVD movie, the Video window and
InterVideo WinDVD Player control panel open.
See “Playing a Movie” on page 3–8.
■ A blank CD-R or CD-RW disc, use RecordNow
CD/DVD Writer to copy audio or data files.
■ A blank DVD, a program opens for you to use
to record to the disc. See “Recording with the
DVD Writer Drive” on page 3–17.
Using the PC
Inserting and Removing
a CD or DVD Disc
Your PC must be turned on before you can
insert or remove a CD or DVD disc.
1. Press the Load/Eject button.
Inserting a CD or DVD disc
Getting Started3–7
2. Carefully lift the disc from the disc case. Hold
the disc by the edges and the centre hole only,
to avoid touching the surface.
3. Place the disc, label side facing up, into the
round area of the tray. Be sure that the disc lies
flat in the tray.
4. Press the Load/Eject button.
To remove the disc, press the
Load/Eject button to open the drive.
Using the PC
Playing Music
1. Insert a CD or DVD disc.
2. Wait for the disc to start playing. If the
disc does not play automatically, follow
the onscreen instructions.
3. When you are finished listening, press the
Load/Eject button to open the drive tray.
Playing a Movie
You can play a DVD movie only in a DVD-ROM or
DVD+RW/+R drive.
1. Insert a DVD disc.
For best performance, close all other
programs before playing a DVD movie.
3–8Getting Started
2. Wait for the DVD to start playing
automatically. If it does not, follow these steps.
a. Click the Start button on your Windows
desktop.
b. Choose All Programs, InterVideo
WinDVD Player, and then InterVideo
WinDVD 4.
c. Click the Play button to start the movie.
3. Press the Load/Eject button to eject the DVD
from the drive when you are finished.
Using the PC
Playing Video CDs
If the VCD is dual-language, see “Playing
Dual-Language Video CDs” on page 3–10 to select
VCDs (video compact discs) can be played in a PC
a specific language.
that has a CD or DVD drive, by using InterVideo
WinDVD or Windows Media Player programs.
The InterVideo WinDVD program is
included only with PC models that have a
DVD drive.
To play a VCD with Windows Media Player:
1. Insert the VCD into your CD or DVD drive.
2. Click Start.
3. Choose All Programs, and then click
Windows Media Player.
To play the VCD with InterVideo WinDVD:
4. Click the File menu, and then click Open.
1. Insert the VCD into your CD or DVD drive.
5. Click the drop-down arrow next to the Look In
2. Click Start.
3. Choose All Programs, InterVideo
WinDVD Player, and then click
InterVideo WinDVD 4. The VCD Player
control panel opens, and the VCD starts
window, and then select the drive that has
the VCD.
6. Double-click the MPEGAV folder. If nothing
appears in the folder, select All files from the
Files of type drop-down list.
to play.
Getting Started3–9
Using the PC
7. Select the file, and then click Open. Your
VCD begins playing.
If the VCD is dual-language, see “Playing
Dual-Language Video CDs” on page 3–10 to
select a specific language.
3. Under Volume Control Balance, move the
slider bar all the way to the right or to the left,
depending on the language you want to hear.
4. Close the Volume Control window.
If you change the Volume Control Balance setting
on your PC to hear a specific language on a
Playing Dual-Language Video CDs
If you have a dual-language VCD, you must select
the language you want to hear, or both languages
play at the same time.
To select a language:
VCD, sound comes from either the left or right
channel (speaker). After the VCD is finished, to
hear sound from both speakers again, double-click
the Volume icon on the taskbar and then move
the Balance slider bar back to the centre.
1. Start the VCD as described in “Playing Video
CDs” on page 3–9.
2. Double-click the Volume icon on the taskbar.
3–10Getting Started
Using the PC
Recording with the CD-RW Drive
Compaq provides CD burning software (select
models only) to assist you with creating CDs.
Uses of the CD-RW Drive
You can createTo
An audio CDCreate personal music CDs with your favourite music tracks and MP3/WMA files.
A data CDStore data from files or folders on your hard disk drive, or write files directly to a CD-R
and CD-RW.
A copy of a CDCreate a copy of a CD or a backup of data files.
Jewel case inserts and
labels
Make custom jewel case inserts and CD labels to indicate the title and contents of a
CD (labels are sold separately).
It is recommended that you use a CD-R disc if
you are going to play it in a CD player, CD-ROM,
DVD-ROM, or DVD+RW/+R drive. CD-R discs
are compatible with more players than are
CD-RW discs.
Getting Started3–11
Using the PC
Creating a Music CD
RecordNow CD/DVD Writer (available on select
models) creates closed session music CDs. This
means that you must record all music files for a
disc in one recording session. Music files can be
recorded repeatedly on a rewriteable CD-RW, but
all previously recorded files must first be erased. To
erase a recorded CD-RW disc, insert the disc, open
RecordNow CD/DVD Writer, and then click the
Erase button. CD-R discs cannot be erased.
1. Click Start, choose All Programs,
RecordNow CD/DVD Writer, and then
click RecordNow.
2. Click Make a Music Disc.
3. Select an option:
❏ Make a Music Disc from Audio
Files — Creates a music disc from MP3,
WMA, or WAV files on your hard disk
drive. Continue with step 7.
❏ Make a Music Disc from other
CDs — Create a new music disc from
tracks taken from your music disc
collection. Continue with step 4.
❏ Make a Disc for an MP3
Player — Create a disc specifically for
MP3 players. Follow the onscreen
instructions.
4. Insert a music CD, and click Next.
5. Select the music tracks to record, and then
click Add.
3–12Getting Started
Using the PC
6. Click Finish when you have added all the
audio files to your music CD project.
7. Insert a blank CD-R or CD-RW disc, and then
click Next.
If you are recording music files from another
Creating a Data CD
You can record data to blank or appendable
CD-R or CD-RW discs in different ways: With
RecordNow CD/DVD Writer or using the DLA
(drive letter access) program.
CD, follow the onscreen instructions to finish
recording; otherwise, continue with step 8.
The DLA program is not preinstalled on
your PC, but you can get it from the
8. Select music files from the Music on System
window or use the Browse button, and then
Hewlett-Packard Web site; see “Installing
DLA software” on page 3–14.
click Add.
9. Click Next to record the files.
1. Click Start, choose All Programs,
RecordNow CD/DVD Writer, and
then click RecordNow.
2. Click Make a Data Disc.
Getting Started3–13
Using the PC
3. Insert a blank or appendable CD-R or CD-RW
disc into the drive, and then click Next.
4. Click Add Files and Folders.
5. Select the files you want to record, and then
click Add. Repeat this step until you are
finished adding files.
To get and install the DLA program:
1. Go to the Web site:
http://www.hp.com/cposupport
Click Choose your language and country/region to select the
appropriate language, if necessary.
6. Click Next, and then click OK.
7. Click Done when the recording is finished.
Installing DLA software
The Drive Letter Access (DLA) software is not
preinstalled on your PC.
2. Type your PC model number into the
Search box.
3. Click drivers and downloads for your
model. Click applications, if it is present.
4. Choose DLA, and then follow the onscreen
instructions to download and install the
DLA allows you to use your CD Writer drive or
program.
DVD Writer drive (on select models only) as you
would a diskette drive, by copying files to disc,
or by using a drag-and-drop method.
3–14Getting Started
Using the PC
Recording with DLA
5. Under Format type, select Full or Quick
(erase). You must select the quick format for
Format a blank CD or DVD before copying
files directly to the disc. If you don’t, a
message appears telling you to format the
all CD-R or DVD+R discs. You must select the
full format for a CD-RW or DVD+RW disc the
first time you format it.
disc, or telling you that your drive is not
accessible.
Full format can take up to 45 minutes.
Quick format usually takes less than a
1. Press the Eject button on the drive, and insert
minute.
the blank disc.
2. Click Start, and then click My Computer.
3. Right-click the drive icon, and select Format.
4. Under Volume Label, type in the title of
the disc.
Getting Started3–15
6. Click Start to format the disc.
7. Click Yes to the message that all files on the
disc will be erased.
8. Click OK.
Using the PC
When the disc formatting is complete, you
can copy your files directly to the disc in
My Computer by:
■ Dragging a file from a Windows Explorer
window to your drive icon.
After you record your files, if you want to read the
DLA-formatted disc on most other CD-ROM drives,
you must make the disc compatible: Insert your disc
into your drive, right-click the DVD Writer drive
icon or the CD Writer drive icon, and then select
Make Compatible.
Or
The Make Compatible feature in DLA makes
■ Selecting Save As from within some
programs, and then saving the file to your
drive.
Or
■ Right-clicking a file, selecting Send To, and
then selecting your drive.
uncompressed CD-R and DVD+R discs readable
by most read-only CD or DVD drives, even if DLA
is not installed in the PC. When you make a disc
compatible, DLA closes the session on your disc.
This means:
■ With a DVD+R, you are not able to add data
to the disc.
■ With a CD-R, you are able to add more data
in another recording session, but you need to
select Make Compatible again after you
add the files.
3–16Getting Started
Using the PC
Recording with the
DVD Writer Drive
The DVD Writer drive, available on select models
only, plays movie DVDs and music CDs, reads data
CDs and DVDs, and records files to DVD+RW,
DVD-R, CD-R, and CD-RW discs.
There are two types of DVD disc drives:
DVD+RW/+R and DVD-R/RW. DVD-R,
DVD-RW, and DVD-RAM discs do not work
in the DVD+RW/+R drive.
If your PC has a DVD Writer drive, a printed guide
is included.
Getting Started3–17
Maintaining the CD or DVD Drive
Keep the following guidelines in mind:
■ Do not move the drive while it is operating.
■ Avoid exposing the drive to rapid changes in
temperature.
■ If the drive is exposed to sudden change in
temperature, wait one hour before turning off
the PC.
■ Avoid exposing the drive to high temperatures
or humidity, direct sunlight, or mechanical
vibrations.
■ Clean the panel and controls with a soft, dry
cloth.
■ Never spray cleaning fluids into the drive.
■ Unplug the PC if any liquids or objects fall into
the drive.
Using the PC
Using Speakers
Your PC may or may not include a set of stereo
speakers or a subwoofer. For details on connecting
the speakers to the PC, see the Quick Setup guide.
Your PC may support a multi-channel audio system.
This type of audio system is a powered system (has
a power button) with more than two channels and
may include a subwoofer. For example, 6 speaker
mode (for 5.1 channels) uses two front speakers
(left-right), two rear speakers (left-right), a centre
speaker, and a subwoofer.
3–18Getting Started
A stereo speaker system is a 2-channel system that
can be passive (no power button) or powered.
Your PC only supports powered (active)
Compaq speaker systems. The speakers
must have their own power cord.
For information on adjusting the sound level, refer
to “Adjusting the Speaker Volume” on page 3–22.
Using the PC
Using Multi-Channel
Audio Speakers
If your PC has the multi-channel audio speakers
option (select models only), you can connect four
channels (speakers) or six channels.
To use a multi-channel audio system with more than
two channels, you need to connect the speakers to
Connecting a Multi-Channel
Speaker System to the PC
1. Turn off the PC.
2. Connect the three speaker plugs to the
connectors on the back of the PC.
Connect
speaker plugs
To PC back
connector
Connector
icon
your PC, and configure them for sound output.
Front speakersAudio Out
(lime-green)
Rear speakersAudio In (blue)
Centre/subwoofer
speakers
Getting Started3–19
Mic-1 (pink)
OUT
IN
Using the PC
3. Turn on the speaker system.
4. Turn on the PC.
5. Configure the audio output for the
multi-channel system with the Multi-Channel
Sound Manager.
Configuring the Multi-Channel
Sound Manager
4. Click the Speaker Configuration tab.
5. Select the option describing the number of
speakers in your system, for example,
6 speaker mode (for 5.1 channels).
To test a speaker, click the Speaker
tab and then click the speaker.
6. Click OK.
1. Click Start.
2. Choose All Programs.
3. Choose Multi-channel Sound Manager,
and then click Multi-channel Sound Manager again.
3–20Getting Started
Using the PC
Configuring Multi-Channel Audio
5. Click Apply.
Output for the DVD Player
WinDVD is set up for two-speaker (stereo) output.
To hear all speakers with multi-channel DVD
movies, change the audio properties for WinDVD
to match your speaker configuration (if your PC
supports more than two channels).
6. Click OK.
1. Insert a DVD, or start InterVideo WinDVD
Player.
2. Right-click anywhere in the WinDVD window,
and then click Setup.
3. Click the Audio tab.
4. Click the option for the number of speakers to
match your multi-channel speaker system.
Getting Started3–21
To test the speaker, click the Test
button. The WinDVD control panel
shows the speaker number being used.
Click Stop.
If you want to play a DVD in stereo, change
the audio properties of WinDVD to match
the stereo speaker setup.
Using the PC
Using the Microphone with
Multi-Channel Audio
The multi-channel speaker system (on select models
only) connects to the PC using the Microphone,
Audio (Line) In, and Audio (Line) Out connectors on
the back of the PC.
Your PC may have another microphone on the front
of the PC. If present, this microphone is ready to
Adjusting the Speaker Volume
You can adjust the speaker volume by using the:
■ Volume knob or buttons on the keyboard.
■ Volume knob on the speakers (select
models only).
■ Volume icon on the task.
■ Control Panel.
use and does not affect the use of the multi-channel
audio system.
If your PC has a multi-channel speaker system, to
use the microphone connector on the back of the
PC, you must disconnect the multi-channel speakers
system, and change the audio configuration to
a 2-channel system. Use the procedure in
“Configuring the Multi-Channel Sound Manager”
on page 3–20 to set the audio configuration.
3–22Getting Started
Using the PC
To adjust the speaker volume from the Control
Panel:
5. Make adjustments to the device and speaker
volume levels.
1. Click the Start button on the Windows
taskbar.
2. Click Control Panel.
3. Click Sounds, Speech, and Audio Devices, if it is present.
4. Double-click Sounds and Audio Devices.
6. Click Apply, and then click OK.
Getting Started3–23
Using the PC
Connecting the PC to a
Television
Your PC has TV-out capability, which means you
can connect it to a television to view the PC image
on a TV. With the TV-out feature, you can view the
PC image, watch DVD movies (if you have a DVD
drive), or play games on your TV.
To connect a TV to the PC, you may need a video
cable and an audio cable. The type of video cable
depends on your TV. If your TV has an S-Video
socket, you need an S-Video cable. If your TV has
a composite video socket, you need a composite
video cable and, depending on the sockets on the
back of your PC, an S-Video adapter cable.
3–24Getting Started
Connecting to a TV Set
1. Turn off the PC.
2. Connect the TV cable using one of the
following scenarios, depending on the
connection sockets on your TV:
❏ If your TV has an S-Video socket, connect
an S-Video cable from the S-Video In socket
on the TV to the S-Video socket on the back
of the PC.
S-Video Cable
Back of PC
Using the PC
❏ If your TV has a composite video socket
Back of PC
and your PC has a composite video socket,
connect a composite video cable to the
Video In socket on the TV to the composite
video socket on the back of the PC.
Back of PC
Composite Video
Cable
S-Video Adapter
Cable
The S-Video adapter cable is only needed if
Composite Video Cable
there is no composite video socket on the
back of the PC.
3. Connect audio cable: To have sound come
❏ If your TV has a composite video socket
and your PC has only an S-Video socket,
connect a composite video cable to the
Video In socket on the TV and to an S-Video
adapter cable. Connect the S-Video
from your TV and not from your PC, plug
an audio cable into the Audio input socket
(Line In) on the TV and then plug the other end
into the Line Out socket (lime green connector)
on the back of the PC.
adapter cable to the S-Video socket on
the back of the PC.
Getting Started3–25
Using the PC
Viewing the PC Image on TV
5. Click Properties.
6. Click the Settings tab.
The type of video card on your PC
determines how the computer selects the
TV-out option. Some options and menus in
this procedure may be different for your PC.
7. Click the Advanced button.
8. Click the nView tab, if available, and
under nView Modes select Clone to view
the computer image on your monitor and
1. Make sure the video and audio cables are
your TV simultaneously.
connected before you turn on the TV and
the PC.
2. Turn on the TV. Press the Video/TV button on
your remote control to select the Video setting,
not the TV setting.
You can view the computer image on
just the TV. Under nView Modes, select
Standard [nView disabled], click
the Device Settings button, choose
Select Output Device, and then
3. Turn on the PC.
select the TV option.
4. When the Windows desktop appears,
right-click an empty area of the desktop.
3–26Getting Started
Using the PC
9. Click the OK button, and then click OK
again.
10. When the PC image appears on the TV
screen, click Yes to keep the setting. You have
15 seconds to accept this new setting before it
reverts to the previous setting.
Disabling the TV Option
To disable the TV option:
1. Right-click an empty area of the screen.
2. Click Properties.
3. Click the Settings tab.
4. Click the Advanced button.
5. Click the nView tab, if available, and under nView Modes select Standard [nView
When you want to disconnect the TV from the PC,
disabled] option.
you may need to disable the TV option to return
your PC display to its original resolution.
If you viewed the computer image
on just the TV, do the following: with
Standard [nView disabled]
selected under nView Modes, click
the Device Settings button, choose
Select Output Device, and then
select the Analog Display option.
Getting Started3–27
Using the PC
6. Click the OK button, and then click OK
Disconnecting the TV
again.
1. Disable the TV option. See “Disabling the TV
7. When the PC image appears on the PC
Option” on page 3–27.
screen, click Yes to keep the setting. You have
15 seconds to accept this new setting before it
reverts to the previous setting.
2. Turn off the TV and the PC.
3. Remove the video cable at the TV and the PC.
4. Remove the audio cable at the TV and the PC.
5. Reconnect your PC speaker cable to the Line
Out socket (lime green connector) on the back
of the PC.
3–28Getting Started
Using the Mouse
Your PC includes a mouse for directing the cursor
on the Windows desktop. Use the mouse on a flat
surface.
The mouse has three parts on the top. Click the
left mouse button 1 to position the cursor or to
select an item (double-click to open an application
or file). Use the centre wheel button 2 to scroll
through a document, or use it to activate the
autoscroll feature. Click the right mouse button 3
to display a menu of commands available for the
item you clicked.
You can change the function of the left and right
buttons for left-handed use. Refer to “Switching
Mouse Button Functions” on page 3–31.
Using the PC
Getting Started3–29
Using the PC
Your PC includes one of the following mouse types:
Mouse Types
MouseFunctions
Scroll mouseUses left and right function buttons and a scroll wheel.
Optical mouseAvailable with select models, this mouse provides the same functions as the scroll mouse, but
it uses an optical sensor instead of a mechanical ball to determine the position of the cursor
on the screen.
Use the optical mouse on a mousepad or a white sheet of paper underneath. Using it on a
glass or see-through surface inhibits the ability of the sensor to track the cursor.
Avoid using the mouse on a reflective surface such as a mirror or shiny metal disk or wood
grain surface. This may cause tracking problems.
If your mouse does not function properly, see the troubleshooting section “Optical Mouse”
on page 7–23.
Wireless mouseAvailable with select models, this mouse provides the same functions as the optical mouse,
but it uses a receiver unit to communicate with your PC instead of a connector cable.
If your mouse does not function properly, see the troubleshooting section “Wireless Mouse”
on page 7–24.
3–30Getting Started
Using the PC
Switching Mouse
Button Functions
To switch the functions of the right and left mouse
buttons:
1. Click the Start button.
2. Click Control Panel.
3. Click Printers and Other Hardware,
if present.
4. Double-click Mouse.
5. Check “Switch primary and secondary
buttons” on the Buttons tab.
6. Click Apply, and then click OK.
Getting Started3–31
Scrolling with the Mouse
Moving through a document or Web site with the
scroll wheel is faster than using the scroll bar. Use
the scroll wheel to:
■ Scroll forward or backward through a
document or Web site by turning the scroll
wheel forward or backward.
■ Autoscroll by pressing down on the scroll
wheel until it clicks (an autoscroll icon displays
on your desktop). Move the mouse to scroll in
the desired direction. The farther you move the
cursor from the starting point icon, the faster
the scrolling occurs. To stop autoscrolling,
press any mouse button.
Autoscrolling does not work with some
software.
Using the PC
Panning with the Mouse
1. Press and hold down the wheel button.
2. Slowly move the mouse in the direction
you want to pan. The farther you move the
pointer from the starting point, the faster the
document pans.
3. To stop panning, release the wheel button.
A wireless keyboard functions the same as
other keyboard types, except it uses a receiver
unit to communicate with your PC instead of a
connector cable.
Using the
Compaq Keyboards
The keyboard has an arrangement of standard
keys and special buttons. The illustration shows
an example of the location of the keys and buttons.
The number and location of keys or buttons on your
keyboard may vary from the illustration.
3–32Getting Started
Using the PC
Compaq Internet Keyboard Components
1Function keysPerform special functions, depending on the software application being used.
2Internet buttonsProvide access to your favourite Web sites, services, and applications. (Not available
on all keyboards.)
3Edit keysInsert, Home, Page Up, Delete, End, and Page Down.
4Status lightsIndicates status of the PC and keyboard settings, labeled:
■ Num Lock or 1
■ Caps Lock or A
■ Scroll Lock or down arrow
The wireless keyboard has two additional status lights for indicating a low battery
level for the keyboard and mouse.
5Numeric keysWorks like a calculator keypad.
6Arrow keysNavigate through games or through a document or Web site. These keys allow you
to move left, right, up, and down, using the keyboard instead of the mouse.
Getting Started3–33
Using the PC
Compaq Internet Keyboard Components (Continued)
7Application key*Opens pop-up menus (like the right mouse button) in a Microsoft Office application.
May perform other functions in other software applications.
8Windows logo
keys*
9Alphanumeric
keys
*Keys available in select geographic countries/regions.
3–34Getting Started
Open the Start menu in Microsoft Windows. Used in combination with other keys to
perform other functions.
Work like standard typewriter-style keys.
Using the PC
Some keyboards do not have the Internet buttons, and use a different layout on the top right.
The + and – keys adjust the speaker volume. The key labelled with the moon icon places the PC
into Standby mode. The LEDs are status indicator lights.
Getting Started3–35
Using the PC
Using the Internet Buttons
The Internet Buttons make accessing your favourite
Web sites, services, and applications easier and
faster.
Several Internet Buttons are programmed
to default to an Internet Web site when
pressed. However, until you set up your
Internet Service Provider (ISP), the buttons
take you to a window that guides you
through the ISP setup process.
3–36Getting Started
Using the PC
Internet Buttons
1InternetConnects you to a customisable Web page filled with local weather, news,
sports, and financial information.
2HelpTakes you to the Help and Support Centre, providing information and support
links for your PC and PC-related peripherals.
3SearchAccesses a Web site that helps you locate news and information on the Internet.
4E-mailStarts your e-mail application.
5OffersLaunches an online community experience with chat, discussion boards, clubs
and more.
6EntertainmentConnects you to the world of entertainment, featuring music downloads,
streaming video, Webcasts, entertainment news, and reviews.
Getting Started3–37
Using the PC
Internet Buttons (Continued)
7My PresarioTakes you to the My Presario Club Web site, featuring a variety of discounts,
promotions and how-to information.
8Shopping Provides an instant connection to your PC store and a variety of leading
consumer companies.
Internet Button functions and icons may vary by model and by country/region.
3–38Getting Started
Using the PC
Customizing the Internet Buttons
Internet Buttons can be reprogrammed to open any
software application or data file on your hard disk
drive, or any Internet address.
1. Click the Start button.
2. Click Control Panel.
3. Click Printers and Other Hardware, if it
is present.
4. Double-click Keyboard.
5. On the Buttons tab, double-click the button you
want to change.
8. Enter the URL address.
You can use the Favourites button to select a
URL from the Favourites list in Internet Explorer.
Clicking the Restore Defaults button on the
Button tab restores all of the Internet Buttons
to the factory settings.
9. Click OK.
10. On the Buttons tab, click Apply.
11. Repeat steps 5 to 10 for other buttons.
12. Click OK when you are done.
6. Choose the button capability.
7. Enter a Display label.
Getting Started3–39
Using the PC
Modifying Monitor
Display Properties
1. Click the Start button.
2. Click Control Panel.
3. Click Appearance and Themes.
4. Click Change the Screen Resolution.
5. Click and drag the Screen Resolution slide
control on the Settings tab.
Moving the slide toward Less increases the
size of text on your screen. Moving the slide
toward More decreases the size of text.
3–40Getting Started
6. Click Apply.
7. Click OK.
Some PC models can connect to more than
one display device (CRT monitor, flat panel
monitor, TV). To switch the display of the PC
desktop from one display device to another,
press Alt+F5. Each time you press Alt+F5,
the desktop switches to the next device. If
Alt+F5 does not work, restart the PC.
Using the PC
Turning Off the PC
1. Close any open software programs by
clicking the in the upper-right corner of
each window.
2. Click Start on the taskbar.
3. Click Turn Off Computer.
4. Click Turn Off.
5. Turn off the monitor.
For information on alternatives to turning off the
PC, see “Saving Energy” on page 3–42.
Getting Started3–41
Printing
You can print text and graphics from most
applications and Internet sites if you have a printer
connected to your PC and the necessary software
installed for the printer.
For information on connecting a printer to
your PC, see the setup documentation for
the printer.
1. Click File on the menu bar.
2. Click Print.
Using the PC
3. Select your printing options.
❏ Select the printer.
❏ Choose the page range (for example, all
pages, current page, range of pages).
❏ Determine the number of copies.
❏ Select all, odd, or even pages in a range.
The Print dialog box varies from
application to application.
4. Click OK.
3–42Getting Started
Saving Energy
As an alternative to shutting down the PC,
you can conserve energy by putting the PC into
standby and then hibernation by setting the power
management timers. You can also determine when
your monitor and hard disk drive turn off.
The Microsoft Power Management System
on your PC provides some pre-set power
schemes to assist you with conserving
energy. You can use these or set your own,
as described in “Setting Automatic Standby
or Hibernation Mode” on page 3–45.
Using the PC
Standby Mode
To wake from standby, move the mouse or press
a key on the keyboard. If the PC does not work
When the PC is in standby mode, it goes into a
low-power state and the monitor is blank. The next
time you use the PC, any programs, folders and
documents that were open, before you put the PC
properly when you wake it from standby, reset the
PC: Press and hold the Power button on the front of
the PC for approximately 5 seconds until the system
turns off, and then turn the PC back on.
into standby, are available again.
Standby mode also allows faxes to come through
to the PC, and it enables the PC to automatically
retrieve e-mail messages and download
Using the Power button to reset the system is
not recommended, and should be used only
as a last resort.
information from the Internet, if you have
programmed the PC to do so.
1. Click Start on the taskbar.
2. Click Turn Off Computer.
3. Click Stand By.
Getting Started3–43
Using the PC
Hibernation Mode
Going into hibernation mode, the PC saves
everything in its memory to the hard disk drive,
turns off the monitor and the hard disk drive, and
then turns itself off. When you turn on the PC
again, everything (programs, folders, and
documents) is restored to the screen.
1. Click Start on the taskbar.
2. Click Turn Off Computer.
3. Press and hold the Shift key on the keyboard,
and click Hibernate.
4. To use the PC again, press the Power button
If the PC does not work properly when you wake
it from hibernation, restart the PC:
1. Click Start on the taskbar.
2. Click Turn Off Computer.
If Hibernate is not present, you can
set up your PC for hibernation; refer
to “Setting Automatic Standby or
Hibernation Mode” on page 3–45.
on the front of the PC.
3. Click Restart.
3–44Getting Started
Using the PC
Setting Automatic Standby or
Hibernation Mode
1. Click Start on the taskbar.
2. Click Control Panel.
3. Click Performance and Maintenance,
if it is present.
4. Double-click Power Options.
5. Click the Hibernate tab. The hibernation
check box should be checked. Click to check,
if necessary, and then click Apply.
6. Click the Power Schemes tab.
7. Select a power scheme from the drop-down list
in the Power Schemes box.
Getting Started3–45
8. Choose the settings:
❏ To turn on auto-standby for the PC, click
a time (such as After 20 mins) in the
System standby list.
❏ To set the timer for auto-hibernation,
click the time to elapse before hibernation
(such as After 1 hour) in the System
hibernates list.
If both standby and hibernation timers
are set, the system hibernation timer
must be set for a longer time than the
system standby timer.
9. Click Apply, and then click OK.
Using the PC
3–46Getting Started
4
Using the Internet
The Internet is a global, interlinked network of
PCs, allowing you to connect your PC with others
throughout the world. You can send and receive
e-mail, find information on the World Wide Web,
and access many other services.
Getting Started4–1
The Basics
Before you begin surfing the Internet, ensure that
your PC modem phone line or broadband cable
is connected, as shown in the Quick Setup guide
included with your PC.
Next, establish an Internet Service Provider (ISP)
account. On certain models, Compaq provides a
selection of ISPs for you to choose from; check your
Windows desktop.
Using the Internet
What Is the Internet?
The Internet is a shared network of PCs that
transmit data and make the electronic exchange
of information possible. Documents are stored
on servers (specialised PCs) on the Internet.
Many of these documents are Web pages, part
of the interlinked World Wide Web. They use
Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) to deliver
information in a format readable by your Web
browser. Millions of documents, pictures, software
files and entertainment files are available on the
World Wide Web.
4–2Getting Started
What Is a Hyperlink?
Imagine you’re reading a newspaper. On page 1,
you may read something like “For more details,
see page 3, column 2.”
A hyperlink on a Web page works the same way,
except that the jump to related information occurs
electronically, with a click of the mouse to launch
the hyperlink. You can move instantly from page to
page, Web site to Web site. Linking files together
is what gives the Web its name, weaving and
connecting idea to idea, all over the world.
Using the Internet
Web Browsers
A Web browser like Microsoft Internet Explorer lets
you view and explore information on the Web.
Common features of a Web browser include:
■ Home page — your starting point for
exploring the Web.
■ Search engine — an application that searches
for Web information you request.
■ Bookmarks/Favorites — a list of Internet
addresses you often visit.
■ History list — a list of Web sites you have
visited recently.
Getting Started4–3
E-mail
E-mail (electronic mail) allows you to send letters,
pictures, postcards, even music and video clips, to
anyone instantaneously.
Outlook Express is the e-mail program that comes
with your PC. You can use other e-mail programs,
like AOL and Yahoo! Mail, if you wish.
Using the Internet
Setting Up
Microsoft Outlook Express E-mail
1. Press the E-mail ƒ button on the keyboard.
If the Internet Connection Wizard
starts, Outlook Express is not yet
configured, and you must go through
the configuration process. Contact your
Internet Service Provider (ISP) for the
proper configuration settings.
2. Click the Send and Receive button on the
toolbar.
3. If you are prompted for a password, type it in.
4. Click Remember Password.
5. Click OK.
Sending an E-mail
1. Press the E-mail ƒ button on the keyboard.
2. Click the Create Mail icon.
3. Type the recipient’s e-mail address in the
To box .
4. Type the subject of your message in the
Subject box.
5. Type your message in the message window.
6. Click Send.
E-mail addresses contain no spaces,
and have a full-stop after the server
name. Dashes and underscores may be
used. Capital letters may be required.
Confirm e-mail addresses with
recipients prior to sending.
4–4Getting Started
Using the Internet
Reading E-mail Messages
Your ISP receives e-mail messages for you
automatically, even when your PC is shut down.
The ISP then stores your messages until you connect
to the Internet, and then opens your e-mail program
and reads them.
1. Press the E-mail
2. Click Inbox. New messages appear in bold
type.
3. Double-click the message to display the
message text.
4. Click the Close button in the upper-right
corner of the window to close the e-mail, or
press the Delete key on the keyboard to delete
the message.
Getting Started4–5
ƒ button on the keyboard.
Restricting Internet Content
The Internet provides you with access to a wide
variety of information, but some information may
not be suitable for every viewer.
With Content Advisor, you can:
■ Control Internet access.
■ Set up a password.
■ Set up a list of Web sites that people who use
your PC cannot view.
■ Adjust the type of content people can view
with or without your permission.
Using the Internet
1. Click Start on the taskbar, and then click
Control Panel.
2. Double-click Network and Internet
Connections, and then click Internet
Options.
3. Click the Content tab 1.
4. In the Content Advisor area, click Enable 2.
5. On the Ratings tab, click a category in the list,
and then click and drag slider bar until the
rating level is set to the limit you want to use.
6. Repeat this process for each category you
want to limit, and then click Apply, and then
click OK.
7. Type a password in the Password box and the
Confirm password box, and then click OK.
After the initial setup, if you later want to
change the settings, click Settings instead
of Enable. The Enable button works as
a toggle to turn the Content Advisor on
and off.
4–6Getting Started
5
Maintaining the PC
Routine Maintenance
Guidelines
Keep the following in mind when you are setting up
or using your PC:
■ Operate the PC on a level surface.
■ Keep at least 3 inches (8 cm) of space
between the back of the unit and any cabinet
or wall.
Getting Started5–1
■ Keep at least 3 inches (8 cm) of space
between the top of the monitor and any
cabinet.
■ Never block vents or air intake areas for the
PC or monitor.
■ Never operate the PC with the cover or side
panel removed.
■ Keep the PC away from excessive heat, cold,
moisture and direct sunlight.
Maintaining the PC
■ Keep liquids away from the PC and keyboard.
■ Turn off the PC before you:
❏ Wipe the exterior with soft, damp cloth
❏ Clean the air vents
It is recommended that you back up files, and
defragment your hard disk drive at least monthly.
If you use your PC a great deal, you may want
to perform these tasks more frequently.
Uninstalling Programs
Preventive Maintenance
Preventive maintenance is essential for keeping
your PC in good working condition. A few basic
tasks include:
■ Creating backup files.
■ Deleting unwanted files.
■ Defragmenting your hard disk drive.
■ Running virus scan software.
5–2Getting Started
1. Click Start.
2. Click Control Panel.
3. Double-click Add or Remove Program.
4. Click the Change or Remove Programs
icon on the left of the screen, if not already
selected.
5. Select the program to uninstall.
6. Click the Change/Remove button, and then
follow the onscreen instructions.
Maintaining the PC
Removing Desktop Icons
To move desktop icons to the Unused Desktop
Shortcuts folder:
You can remove most desktop icons from your
display by either deleting them or moving them to
an unused icons folder. To delete a desktop icon,
right-click the icon and select Delete.
CAUTION: You should not delete any
unfamiliar desktop icon. If in doubt, do
not delete it. Instead, follow the steps to
move desktop icons to the Unused Desktop
Shortcuts folder.
1. Click Start.
2. Click Control Panel.
3. Click Appearance and Themes.
4. Click Display.
5. On the Desktop tab, click Customize Desktop.
6. Under Desktop cleanup, click Clean Desktop Now.
7. Follow the onscreen directions to remove
unused desktop icons.
You can return desktop icons to your desktop by
opening the Unused Desktop Shortcuts folder on
your desktop and dragging an icon onto the
desktop.
Getting Started5–3
Maintaining the PC
Cleaning Up the Hard Disk Drive
6. On the General tab, click Disk Cleanup.
As you use your PC and store files, the hard disk
drive begins to fill up and get cluttered, affecting
performance. To prevent this, you can delete files
that you are not using.
CAUTION: You should not delete any
unfamiliar files. If in doubt, do not delete it.
1. Close all open programs.
2. Click the Start button on the Windows
taskbar.
3. Click My Computer.
4. Right-click the hard disk drive you want to
clean up.
7. Click the types of files you want to delete.
5. Click Properties on the pop-up menu.
8. Click OK.
5–4Getting Started
Maintaining the PC
Emptying the Recycle Bin
After you delete files from the hard disk drive, they
are sent to the Recycle Bin. You can retrieve files
that are sent to the Recycle Bin as long as you have
not emptied it.
Once you empty the Recycle Bin, your files are
permanently deleted.
1. Double-click the Recycle Bin icon on your
Windows desktop.
2. On the File menu, click Empty Recycle Bin
to delete all files.
3. Click Yes to confirm the deletion.
Getting Started5–5
Scanning the Hard Disk Drive
You can scan the hard disk drive to search for and
repair errors.
Your PC may not have the ScanDisk
application installed.
1. Close all open programs.
2. Click the Start button on the Windows
taskbar.
3. Click My Computer.
4. Right-click the hard disk drive you want to
check.
Maintaining the PC
5. Click Properties.
6. On the Tools tab, click the Check Now
button.
7. Select the disk check options you want to use.
8. Click Start to begin scanning.
1. Close all open programs.
2. Click the Start button on the Windows
taskbar.
3. Click My Computer.
4. Right-click the hard disk drive you want
to check.
Defragmenting the Drive
You can improve the efficiency of the PC by
defragmenting it regularly. Defragmenting moves
the files closer together so that the hard disk drive
5. Click Properties.
6. On the Tools tab, click the Defragment Now button.
7. Select the disk you want to defragment.
space is used more effectively.
8. Click Defragment to begin.
Your PC may not have defragmenting
software installed, or may use another
type of defragmenter.
5–6Getting Started
Maintaining the PC
Virus Protection
A PC virus can destroy information on the hard disk
drive. You can get a virus from infected files
accessed from:
■ An e-mail message or attachment
■ Files downloaded from the Internet
■ A diskette (floppy disk)
■ A CD or DVD disc
Some viruses affect your PC immediately, while
others may activate only if you open a certain file,
or do not delete the file before a certain date.
Norton AntiVirus is available on your PC with
pre-set options that make your PC safe. Your PC is
scanned for viruses after you enable the Norton
AntiVirus application.
Getting Started5–7
You should take the following precautions to
protect your PC:
■ Do not open unsolicited e-mail from unknown
sources.
■ Download files only from sources you feel
are safe.
■ Always scan documents for viruses before
opening.
■ Make sure you have the latest version of
Norton AntiVirus.
Maintaining the PC
5–8Getting Started
6
Using Application Recovery
and System Recovery
Make recovery CDs for your PC now, before
a need occurs. If the hard disk drive is ever
damaged, or you have to replace it, you must
use recovery CDs, that you create, to reinstall the
operating system and software. Refer to “Using
Compaq Recovery CD Creator” on page 6–7.
Before using the Compaq Presario System
Recovery or Application Recovery programs,
try using the System Restore.
Getting Started6–1
Your PC does not include recovery CDs.
Recovery CDs contain a complete image
of the original Presario PC hard disk drive
contents. To make your own recovery CDs,
see “Using Compaq Recovery CD Creator”
on page 6–7.
Using Application Recovery and System Recovery
Using System Restore
WARNING: Try System Restore before
using the Compaq System Recovery
program.
If software on your hard disk drive accidentally
gets erased or damaged, try the Microsoft System Restore feature in Windows XP to restore the PC
system and program settings.
System Restore returns the PC settings to a selected
restore point without affecting user programs or
document files.
6–2Getting Started
1. Close all open programs.
2. Click the Start button on the Windows
taskbar.
3. Choose All Programs.
4. Choose Accessories.
5. Choose System Tools.
6. Click System Restore.
7. Follow the onscreen instructions.
Using Application Recovery and System Recovery
Application Recovery
If an individual application or driver accidentally
gets erased or damaged, you can reinstall the
software using the Compaq Presario Application
Recovery program.
Not all models include the Application
Recovery program. Perform steps 1 to 4.
If Compaq Application Recovery appears
as an option, then your PC includes the
program.
Do not use Application Recovery to reinstall
software programs that came on CDs or
DVDs included in the PC box. Reinstall these
programs directly from the CDs or DVDs.
Getting Started6–3
To start Application Recovery:
1. Close all applications and folders.
2. Click Start on the taskbar.
3. Choose All Programs.
4. Choose Compaq, and then choose
Compaq pc tools.
5. Click Compaq ApplicationRecovery.
The recovery box appears.
6. Click Application Installation or
Driver Installation, and then click Next.
7. Select the driver or application program to
install, and then click Install.
Using Application Recovery and System Recovery
8. Follow the onscreen instructions.
9. Repeat steps 6 through 8 to install other
drivers or applications.
10. When you have finished recovering
applications or drivers, close the Application
Recovery program.
11. Click Start on the taskbar.
12. Click Turn Off Computer, and then click
Restart to restart the PC.
CAUTION: Do not skip this last step!
You must restart the PC when you finish
recovering applications or drivers.
6–4Getting Started
System Recovery
When other methods of repairing your system
software (such as System Restore or Application
Recovery) fail, you may want to use the
Compaq Presario System Recovery program
as a last resort to reinstall the software.
Using the System Recovery program, you
can reinstall the original operating system and
application software that was installed on your
PC at the factory.
CAUTION: The Compaq Presario System
Recovery program deletes any data or
programs that you installed or created after
purchase. Be sure to back up any data you
want to save onto a removable disc. Refer
to “Creating a Data CD” on page 3–13.
Using Application Recovery and System Recovery
The System Recovery program uses a special
recovery partition on the hard disk drive to store
an image of the original software.
The system recovery image takes up part
of the total hard disk drive space. The
system recovery partition disk space is
not available for your use.
To contact Compaq Support, see the Warranty and Support Guide, included in the PC documentation,
for the Compaq Customer Care telephone number.
Starting System Recovery
If the PC Is Responding
1. Click Start on the taskbar.
2. Click Turn Off Computer, and then click
In the unlikely event that you replace the hard disk
drive, or somehow damage the data in the special
recovery partition on the hard disk drive, you must
use recovery CDs to reinstall the operating system
and software to the hard disk drive. See “System
Recovery Using Recovery CDs” on page 6–8.
Turn Off.
3. Disconnect all peripheral devices from the PC
except the monitor, the keyboard, and the
mouse.
4. Press the Power button to turn on the PC.
5. Click Start on the taskbar.
Make your own recovery CDs before you need
them; see “Using Compaq Recovery CD Creator”
6. Choose All Programs.
on page 6–7.
Getting Started6–5
Using Application Recovery and System Recovery
7. Choose Compaq, and then click Compaq
pc tools.
8. Click Compaq System Recovery.
9. Wait until the System Recovery box appears,
asking Do you really want to start Compaq
System Recovery?
10. Click Yes to continue with the recovery
process.
11. Follow the onscreen instructions. If you
created recovery CDs (see “Using Compaq
Recovery CD Creator” on page 6–7), then
you may be directed to insert recovery CD #1.
12. Complete the PC startup, finish the registration
process, and then reconnect all peripheral
devices.
6–6Getting Started
Starting System Recovery
If the PC Is Not Responding
1. Press and hold the Power button until the PC
turns off.
2. Disconnect all peripheral devices from the PC
except the monitor, the keyboard and the
mouse.
3. Press the Power button to turn on the PC.
4. During the startup, when the black screen
with the Compaq logo appears, press the
F10 key on the keyboard. (You have only a
few seconds to press the F10 key before the
normal startup process continues.)
5. Follow the onscreen instructions. Insert
recovery CD #1, if directed.
Using Application Recovery and System Recovery
6. Complete the PC startup, and finish the
registration process. Then reconnect all
peripheral devices.
Using Compaq
Recovery CD Creator
Before you experience any problem, it is a good
idea to make recovery CDs for your PC by using
the Compaq Recovery CD Creator.
A recovery CD set is a complete image of the
original Compaq Presario home PC hard disk
drive contents, and is matched to your PC model.
The CDs are licensed for use only with your
Compaq Presario home PC. The CD set contains
the operating system, drivers, and application
software that was originally factory-installed on
your PC.
Getting Started6–7
To use this program, your PC must have a
CD-RW drive or other drive that can write to CDs.
If necessary, purchase a Windows XP-compatible
CD-RW drive from a PC or electronic store.
The program tells you the number of CDs needed
to make a set for your PC. The process takes some
time, including up to 30 minutes per CD to verify
that the information is correct.
You can quit the process at any time. The next time
you run the program, it begins where it left off.
If you quit the process when it is in the
middle of creating a CD (before it has been
completely written and verified), when you
resume the Recovery CD Creator program
it starts at the beginning of recreating the
incomplete CD.
Using Application Recovery and System Recovery
To create recovery CDs:
1. Close any open programs.
To close programs, click in the upper-right
corner of each window.
2. Click Start on the taskbar.
3. Choose All Programs.
4. Choose Compaq, and then click Compaq pc tools.
5. Click Compaq Recovery CD Creator.
The creator box appears.
6. Follow the onscreen instructions. Label each
CD disc as they finish.
7. Store the recovery CDs in a safe place for
future use.
6–8Getting Started
System Recovery
Using Recovery CDs
The recovery CDs provide two recovery options:
■ Standard Recovery: This is a
non-destructive recovery for recovering
factory-shipped programs, drivers, and
the operating system without affecting any
data files that you may have created since
purchasing your PC. Some data files may be
difficult to find after the system recovery, so it
is best to back up all hard disk drive files
before performing a system recovery.
Using Application Recovery and System Recovery
■ Full System Recovery: This recovery
process completely erases and reformats the
hard disk drive. It reinstalls the operating
system, programs, and drivers from the
recovery CDs. However, you must reinstall
any software that was not installed on the PC
at the factory. This includes software that came
on CDs provided in the PC accessory box and
software programs you installed since your
purchase.
If your PC has a blank or corrupted hard
disk drive, you are only able to choose the
full system recovery option.
To run the system recovery program:
1. If the PC works, back up all data files that you
want to save onto removable media, such as
CD-RW or diskette. Remove the backup CD
or diskette from the PC.
2. Turn off the PC:
❏ If the PC works, click Start on the taskbar,
click Turn Off Computer, and then click Turn Off.
Or
❏ Press and hold the Power button
approximately 5 seconds until the PC
turns off.
Getting Started6–9
Using Application Recovery and System Recovery
3. Disconnect all peripheral devices from the PC
except the monitor, the keyboard, and the
mouse.
4. Press the Power button to turn on the PC.
5. When the black screen with the Compaq logo
appears, press the F1 key on the keyboard
until Entering Setup appears. (You have only
a few seconds to press the F1 key before the
normal setup process continues.) Wait until the
BIOS setup program opens.
6. Press the right arrow key to select Boot.
7. Press the down arrow key to select Boot Device Priority, and then press Enter on the
keyboard.
8. Change the first boot device to CD-ROM by
using one of these methods:
❏ Press the down arrow key to select the
CD-ROM item. Press the + (plus) key to
move the CD-ROM item up until it is the
first item in the list.
Or
❏ Press the down arrow key to highlight
the First Boot Device selection. Press the
+ (plus) key until CD-ROM is the selection.
9. Press the Eject button on the top CD-ROM
drive, and wait for the tray to open. Insert
Recovery CD #1, and close the tray.
10. Press the F10 key to save the changes, and
exit BIOS.
11. With Yes selected, press Enter.
6–10Getting Started
Using Application Recovery and System Recovery
12. The PC starts the recovery; wait for the
onscreen instructions to display, and then
follow those instructions.
❏ For standard recovery, press R, and then
press R again. Click Next to proceed with
the non-destructive system recovery. Click
Yes to start the recovery. Insert the
remaining CDs when directed.
Or
❏ For full system recovery, press R, and then
press F. Click Yes to perform a full system
recovery. Insert the remaining CDs when
directed.
Or
❏ If your PC hard disk drive is blank or
corrupted, press R to perform a full system
13. When the recovery program finishes, click
Restart to restart the PC.
14. Before the PC restarts, the CD tray ejects.
Remove the CD.
15. Return the BIOS to the original setting. During
the startup when the black screen with the
Compaq logo appears, press the F1 key on
the keyboard until Entering SETUP appears.
(You have only a few seconds to press the
F1 key before the normal setup process
continues.) Wait until the BIOS setup
program opens.
16. Press the right arrow key to select Boot.
17. Press the down arrow key to select Boot Device Priority, and then press Enter on the
keyboard.
recovery. Insert the remaining CDs when
directed.
Getting Started6–11
Using Application Recovery and System Recovery
18. Return the first boot device to the original
setting using one of these methods:
❏ Press the down arrow or up arrow key to
select the CD-ROM item. Press the – (minus)
key to move the CD-ROM item down until it
is the third item in the list.
Or
❏ Press the down arrow key to highlight
the First Boot Device selection. Press the
+ (plus) key until Floppy is the selection.
19. Press the F10 key to save the changes, and
exit BIOS.
6–12Getting Started
20. With Yes selected, press Enter.
After the PC restarts, a series of startup
screens appear. To proceed with the initial
Microsoft Windows setup, you must answer
a few onscreen questions.
21. Complete the registration process, and then
reconnect all peripheral devices.
22. Reinstall any software you installed after you
purchased the PC.
23. Copy data files you saved on the backup CD
or diskette (floppy disk) to your hard disk
drive.
7
Finding Help & Support
If you have a PC problem or question, check the
following resources for answers:
■ Review this chapter.
■ Press the Internet Help G button on your
keyboard to access the built-in Help and
Support Centre.
■ Contact a Compaq Support Specialist at the
telephone number listed in the Warranty and
Support Guide.
Getting Started7–1
Finding Help & Support
Integrated Help Tool
Pressing the Help G button on your keyboard
accesses the Help and Support Centre, which
provides:
■ Answers to questions about your hardware or
software.
■ Help installing new peripherals or software
applications.
■ Resolutions to hardware or software problems.
■ Access to the latest drivers, updates, and
downloads.
7–2Getting Started
Preparing to Ship the PC
If you have to ship the PC to Compaq for service:
■ Back up the hard disk drive.
■ Make sure the backup media are not exposed
to electrical or magnetic impulses.
■ Remove any diskette, CD, or DVD from the
drive, and store it separately.
■ Insert a blank diskette (floppy) into the disk
drive.
■ Turn off the PC and external devices.
■ Disconnect all power cords from the electrical
outlet and then from the PC and external
devices.
■ Pack the PC and external devices in their
original packing boxes or in sufficient packing
material to protect them.
Finding Help & Support
Solving Minor Problems
For each situation in this troubleshooting section,
the Symptom indicates the sign or warning
message for the type of problem. The Problem
identifies one or more reasons why the symptom
may have occurred. The Solution describes what
you should do to try to solve the problem.
Getting Started7–3
Some of the symptoms listed for certain
troubleshooting problems will not apply to
your PC. For problems relating specifically
to the monitor or printer, refer to the
equipment documentation.
Finding Help & Support
Audio
SymptomProblemSolution
No sound.Volume is muted.1. Click Start, and then click Control Panel.
2. Click Sounds, Speech, and Audio Devices,
if present, and then double-click Sounds and Audio Devices.
3. Click the Mute check box to remove the check
mark from the box.
Speakers are turned off.If your speakers have a power button, check whether
they are turned on (select models only).
Speaker cables are not
properly connected.
PC is in
Turn off your PC using the normal “Turning Off the PC”
procedure, and reconnect the speakers.
Press the Power button to resume from standby mode.
standby mode.
Using a passive speaker
Your PC only supports powered speakers.
system.
7–4Getting Started
CD-ROM, CD-RW, DVD-ROM, or DVD+RW/+R Drive
SymptomProblemSolution
Finding Help & Support
CD-ROM, CD-RW,
CD is upside down.Reinsert the CD with the label facing up.
DVD-ROM, or DVD+RW/+R
drive cannot read a disc or
takes too long to start.
DVD-ROM drive takes
longer to start because
it has to determine
Wait at least 30 seconds to let the DVD-ROM drive
determine the type of media. If it still does not start,
read the other solutions listed in this topic.
media type being played.
CD or DVD disc is dirty.Clean the CD or DVD with a CD cleaning kit, available
from most PC stores.
Getting Started7–5
Finding Help & Support
CD-ROM, CD-RW, DVD-ROM, or DVD+RW/+R Drive (Continued)
SymptomProblemSolution
CD-ROM, CD-RW,
DVD-ROM, or DVD+RW/+R
drive cannot read a disc or
takes too long to start.
(Continued)
Windows does not detect
CD-ROM or DVD-ROM
driver.
1. Click Start, and then click Control Panel.
2. Click Performance and Maintenance, if
present, and then double-click System.
3. Click the Hardware tab, and then click the
Device Manager button.
4. Click the plus sign + next to the DVD/CD-ROM
drives, and select the drive you are having a
problem with.
5. Click the Action menu item, and select Uninstall.
6. Restart your PC.
Recording audio CDs is
difficult or impossible.
Wrong disc type or poor
quality disc.
Verify that you are using the correct disc type (media)
for the drive.
Try a different brand of disc.
7–6Getting Started
Diskette (Floppy) Drive
SymptomProblemSolution
Finding Help & Support
Unable to read the diskette
(floppy disk).
A non-formatted
diskette has been
inserted.
To format the diskette:
1. Click Start, and then click My Computer.
2. Right-click the 3½ Floppy (A:) icon.
3. Select Format from the pop-up menu.
4. Select the desired options, and click Start to
begin formatting the diskette.
Diskette is damaged.Use new diskette.
Invalid system disk
message is displayed.
A diskette has been
left in the drive.
Diskette error has
When drive activity stops, remove the diskette and
press the spacebar. The PC should start up.
Restart your PC by pressing the Power button.
occurred.
Getting Started7–7
Finding Help & Support
Diskette (Floppy) Drive (Continued)
SymptomProblemSolution
Diskette drive light
stays on.
Diskette has been
improperly inserted.
Remove the diskette, and reinsert it: Insert the edge
with the sliding cover into the drive, face up, and push
the diskette in until it stops.
Diskette drive is
damaged.
Press the Help G button on the keyboard to access the
Compaq Help & Support Centre, or refer to the
Warranty and Support Guide for details.
7–8Getting Started
Diskette (Floppy) Drive (Continued)
SymptomProblemSolution
Finding Help & Support
Diskette drive cannot
save information to the
Diskette is full or the
file is too big.
Use another diskette or compress the file to reduce
the size.
diskette.
Diskette is write-protected.Slide the write-protection tab to the unlocked position
on the diskette.
File Save command was
not properly executed.
When saving information to the diskette drive, verify
that you are using the correct drive letter.
Diskette is damaged.Replace the diskette.
Diskette is not formatted.To format the diskette:
1. Click Start, and then click My Computer.
2. Right-click the 3½ Floppy (A:) icon.
3. Select Format from the pop-up menu.
4. Select the desired options, and click Start.
Getting Started7–9
Finding Help & Support
Diskette (Floppy) Drive (Continued)
SymptomProblemSolution
Diskette drive cannot
read a diskette.
Diskette is not formatted.To format the diskette:
1. Click Start, and then click My Computer.
2. Right-click the 3½ Floppy (A:) icon.
3. Select Format from the pop-up menu.
4. Select the desired options, and click Start to
begin formatting the diskette.
Diskette drive has failed.Press the Help G button on the keyboard to access
the Compaq Help & Support Centre, or refer to the
Warranty and Support Guide for details.
Drive not found.Internal cable is loose.Press the Help G button on the keyboard to access
the Compaq Help & Support Centre, or refer to the
Warranty and Support Guide for details.
7–10Getting Started
Finding Help & Support
Display (Monitor)
SymptomProblemSolution
If you encounter display problems, refer to the documentation that came with your monitor and to the common causes and
solutions listed in this table.
Screen is blank, and monitor
power light is not lit.
Monitor power cable is
not connected to the monitor
or to the wall outlet.
Reconnect the power plug on the
back of the monitor and on the wall
outlet.
Monitor is not turned on.Press the Power button on the front of
the monitor.
Getting Started7–11
Finding Help & Support
Display (Monitor) (Continued)
SymptomProblemSolution
Screen is blank.Monitor connector cable is
not properly connected to
the back of the PC.
Inspect the monitor video connector
for bent pins. If no pins are bent,
reconnect the monitor connector
cable on the back of the PC.
Screen saver is enabled.Press any key or move the mouse to
make the screen display visible
again.
PC is in standby mode. Press the Power button to resume from
standby mode.
7–12Getting Started
Hard Disk Drive
SymptomProblemSolution
Finding Help & Support
PC seems to be
locked up.
Program in use has
stopped responding
to commands.
Use the Windows Task Manager to close any
programs not responding:
1. Press the Crtl, Alt, and Del keys at the same time.
2. Select the program that is not responding, and
click End Task.
Or
Attempt the normal Windows “Turn Off PC”
procedure. If this fails, press the Power button for 4 or
more seconds to turn off the power. To restart your PC,
press the Power button again.
Hard disk drive error
message is displayed.
Part of hard disk
drive has failed or
is about to fail.
Getting Started7–13
Press the Help G button on the keyboard to access the
Help and Support Centre, or refer to the Warranty and
Support Guide for details.
Finding Help & Support
Hardware Installation
SymptomProblemSolution
A new device is not
recognised as part
of the system.
Device driver is not
installed.
Install the device driver from the CD or diskette
provided with the device, or download and install
the driver from the device manufacturer’s Web site.
You may need an updated driver for Windows XP.
Contact the device vendor directly for an update.
Device is not seated or
connected properly.
Ensure that the device is properly and securely
connected and that the pins in the connector are
not bent down.
Cable(s) of new external
device are loose, or power
cables are unplugged.
7–14Getting Started
Ensure that all cables are properly and securely
connected and that the pins in the cable or connector
are not bent down.
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