HP (Hewlett-Packard) dv5-2155dx, DV5-2045DX User Manual
User Guide
© Copyright 2010 Hewlett-Packard
Development Company, L.P.
Microsoft and Windows are U.S. registered
trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
Bluetooth is a trademark owned by its
proprietor and used by Hewlett-Packard
Company under license. SD Logo is a
trademark of its proprietor.
The information contained herein is subject
to change without notice. The only
warranties for HP products and services are
set forth in the express warranty statements
accompanying such products and services.
Nothing herein should be construed as
constituting an additional warranty. HP shall
not be liable for technical or editorial errors
or omissions contained herein.
First Edition: May 2010
Document Part Number: 600302-001
Product notice
This user guide describes features that are
common to most models. Some features
may not be available on your computer.
To obtain the latest information in the User
Guide, go to the HP Web site at
http://www.hp.com/support.
Safety warning notice
WARNING! To reduce the possibility of heat-related injuries or of overheating the computer, do not
place the computer directly on your lap or obstruct the computer air vents. Use the computer only on a
hard, flat surface. Do not allow another hard surface, such as an adjoining optional printer, or a soft
surface, such as pillows or rugs or clothing, to block airflow. Also, do not allow the AC adapter to contact
the skin or a soft surface, such as pillows or rugs or clothing, during operation. The computer and the
AC adapter comply with the user-accessible surface temperature limits defined by the International
Standard for Safety of Information Technology Equipment (IEC 60950).
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Table of contents
1 Notebook tour ................................................................................................................................................. 1
Identifying the hardware ....................................................................................................................... 1
Top components .................................................................................................................. 1
TouchPad ............................................................................................................ 1
Lights ................................................................................................................... 2
Buttons ................................................................................................................ 3
Keys .................................................................................................................... 4
Front components ................................................................................................................ 4
Right-side components ........................................................................................................ 5
Left-side components .......................................................................................................... 6
Display components ............................................................................................................ 7
Bottom components ............................................................................................................. 8
Wireless antennas ............................................................................................................... 8
Additional hardware components ........................................................................................ 9
Identifying the labels ........................................................................................................................... 10
2 Wireless and local area network ................................................................................................................. 12
Using wireless devices ....................................................................................................................... 12
Identifying wireless and network status icons .................................................................... 12
Using the wireless controls ................................................................................................ 13
Using the wireless action key ............................................................................................ 13
Using HP Wireless Assistant software ............................................................................... 13
Using operating system controls ........................................................................................ 14
Using a WLAN .................................................................................................................................... 14
Setting up a WLAN ............................................................................................................ 15
Protecting your WLAN ....................................................................................................... 15
Connecting to a WLAN ...................................................................................................... 16
Roaming to another network .............................................................................................. 17
Using HP Mobile Broadband .............................................................................................................. 17
Inserting a SIM ................................................................................................................... 17
Removing a SIM ................................................................................................................ 18
Using Bluetooth wireless devices ....................................................................................................... 19
Bluetooth and Internet Connection Sharing (ICS) ............................................................. 19
Troubleshooting wireless connection problems ................................................................................. 20
Cannot connect to a WLAN ............................................................................................... 20
Cannot connect to a preferred WLAN network .................................................................. 20
Network icon is not displayed ............................................................................................ 21
Current WLAN network security codes are unavailable .................................................... 21
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WLAN connection is very weak ......................................................................................... 22
Cannot connect to the wireless router ............................................................................... 22
Connecting to a local area network (LAN) .......................................................................................... 22
3 Pointing devices and keyboard ................................................................................................................... 24
Using pointing devices ....................................................................................................................... 24
Setting pointing device preferences ................................................................................... 24
Using the TouchPad .......................................................................................................... 24
Turning the TouchPad on and off ...................................................................... 24
Using TouchPad gestures ................................................................................. 25
Scrolling ............................................................................................ 25
Pinching ............................................................................................ 25
Using the action keys ......................................................................................................................... 26
Using the hotkeys ............................................................................................................................... 27
4 Multimedia ..................................................................................................................................................... 29
Multimedia features ............................................................................................................................ 29
Identifying your multimedia components ........................................................................... 29
Using the media activity action keys .................................................................................. 31
Using the media activity action keys ................................................................. 31
Multimedia software ........................................................................................................................... 31
Using HP MediaSmart software ......................................................................................... 32
Using other multimedia software ....................................................................................... 32
Installing multimedia software from a disc ......................................................................... 32
Audio .................................................................................................................................................. 32
Connecting external audio devices .................................................................................... 33
Checking your audio functions ........................................................................................... 33
Video .................................................................................................................................................. 33
Connecting an external monitor or projector ...................................................................... 34
Connecting an HDMI device .............................................................................................. 34
Configuring audio for HDMI (select models only) .............................................. 35
HP TrueVision webcam ...................................................................................................................... 35
Adjusting HP TrueVision webcam properties .................................................................... 37
Troubleshooting .................................................................................................................................. 37
The disc tray does not open for removal of a disc ............................................................. 37
The computer does not detect the optical drive ................................................................. 38
A disc does not play ........................................................................................................... 38
A disc does not play automatically ..................................................................................... 39
A movie stops, skips, or plays erratically ........................................................................... 39
A movie is not visible on an external display ..................................................................... 40
The process of burning a disc does not begin, or it stops before completion .................... 40
A DVD or BD playing in Windows Media Player produces no sound or display ................ 40
A device driver must be reinstalled .................................................................................... 40
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Obtaining the latest HP device drivers .............................................................. 41
Obtaining the latest Windows device drivers .................................................... 41
5 Power management ...................................................................................................................................... 42
Setting power options ......................................................................................................................... 42
Using power-saving states ................................................................................................. 42
Initiating and exiting Sleep ................................................................................ 42
Initiating and exiting Hibernation ....................................................................... 43
Using the battery meter ..................................................................................................... 43
Using power plans ............................................................................................................. 43
Viewing the current power plan ......................................................................... 43
Selecting a different power plan ........................................................................ 44
Customizing power plans .................................................................................. 44
Setting password protection on wakeup ............................................................................ 44
Using external AC power .................................................................................................................... 44
Connecting the AC adapter ............................................................................................... 45
Testing an AC adapter ....................................................................................................... 46
Using battery power ........................................................................................................................... 46
Identifying batteries ............................................................................................................ 46
Finding battery information in Help and Support ............................................................... 47
Using Battery Check .......................................................................................................... 47
Displaying the remaining battery charge ........................................................................... 47
Inserting or removing the battery ....................................................................................... 47
Charging a battery ............................................................................................................. 48
Maximizing battery discharge time .................................................................................... 49
Managing low battery levels .............................................................................................. 49
Identifying low battery levels ............................................................................. 49
Resolving a low battery level ............................................................................. 51
Resolving a low battery level when external power is available ....... 51
Resolving a low battery level when a charged battery is
available ........................................................................................... 51
Resolving a low battery level when no power source is
available ........................................................................................... 51
Resolving a low battery level when the computer cannot exit
Hibernation ....................................................................................... 51
Calibrating a battery ........................................................................................................... 51
Step 1: Fully charge the battery ........................................................................ 51
Step 2: Disable Hibernation and Sleep ............................................................. 52
Step 3: Discharge the battery ............................................................................ 52
Step 4: Fully recharge the battery ..................................................................... 53
Step 5: Reenable Hibernation and Sleep .......................................................... 53
Conserving battery power .................................................................................................. 53
Storing a battery ................................................................................................................ 53
Disposing of a used battery ............................................................................................... 54
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Replacing the battery ......................................................................................................... 54
Shutting down the computer ............................................................................................................... 54
6 Drives ............................................................................................................................................................. 56
Identifying installed drives .................................................................................................................. 56
Handling drives ................................................................................................................................... 56
Using an optical drive ......................................................................................................................... 57
Identifying the installed optical drive .................................................................................. 57
Using optical discs ............................................................................................................. 57
Selecting the right disc (CDs, DVDs, and BDs) ................................................................. 58
CD-R discs ........................................................................................................ 58
CD-RW discs ..................................................................................................... 58
DVD±R discs ..................................................................................................... 58
DVD±RW discs ................................................................................................. 58
LightScribe DVD+R discs .................................................................................. 58
Blu-ray Disc ....................................................................................................... 59
Playing a CD, DVD, or BD ................................................................................................. 59
Configuring AutoPlay ......................................................................................................... 60
Changing DVD region settings .......................................................................................... 60
Observing the copyright warning ....................................................................................... 60
Copying a CD or DVD ........................................................................................................ 61
Creating (burning) a CD or DVD ........................................................................................ 61
Removing an optical disc (CD, DVD, or BD) ..................................................................... 62
Improving hard drive performance ..................................................................................................... 62
Using Disk Defragmenter ................................................................................................... 62
Using Disk Cleanup ........................................................................................................... 63
Using HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection ................................................................................... 63
Identifying HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection status ................................................ 63
Using HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection software .................................................... 64
Replacing the hard drive .................................................................................................................... 64
7 External devices ............................................................................................................................................ 67
Using a USB device ........................................................................................................................... 67
Connecting a USB device .................................................................................................. 67
Removing a USB device .................................................................................................... 67
Using an eSATA device ..................................................................................................................... 68
Connecting an eSATA device ............................................................................................ 68
Removing an eSATA device .............................................................................................. 68
8 External media cards .................................................................................................................................... 70
Using Digital Media Slot cards ........................................................................................................... 70
Inserting a digital card ........................................................................................................ 70
Removing a digital card ..................................................................................................... 71
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9 Memory modules .......................................................................................................................................... 72
Adding or replacing memory modules ................................................................................................ 72
Adding or replacing a memory module in the expansion memory module slot ................. 72
Upgrading a memory module in the primary memory module slot .................................... 75
10 Security ........................................................................................................................................................ 78
Protecting the computer ..................................................................................................................... 78
Using passwords ................................................................................................................................ 78
Setting passwords in Windows .......................................................................................... 79
Setting passwords in Setup Utility ..................................................................................... 79
Administrator password ..................................................................................... 80
Managing an administrator password ............................................... 80
Entering an administrator password ................................................. 81
Power-on password .......................................................................................... 81
Managing a power-on password ...................................................... 81
Entering a power-on password ......................................................... 81
Using antivirus software ..................................................................................................................... 81
Using firewall software ....................................................................................................................... 82
Installing critical security updates ....................................................................................................... 82
Installing an optional security cable .................................................................................................... 82
11 Backup and recovery .................................................................................................................................. 84
Creating recovery discs ...................................................................................................................... 84
Backing up your information ............................................................................................................... 85
Using Windows Backup and Restore ................................................................................ 86
Using system restore points .............................................................................................. 86
When to create restore points ........................................................................... 86
Create a system restore point ........................................................................... 86
Restore to a previous date and time ................................................................. 86
Performing a recovery ........................................................................................................................ 87
Recovering from the recovery discs .................................................................................. 87
Recovering from the dedicated recovery partition (select models only) ............................ 87
Appendix A Setup Utility ................................................................................................................................. 88
Starting Setup Utility ........................................................................................................................... 88
Using Setup Utility .............................................................................................................................. 88
Changing the language of Setup Utility ............................................................................. 88
Navigating and selecting in Setup Utility ............................................................................ 89
Displaying system information ........................................................................................... 89
Restoring default settings in Setup Utility .......................................................................... 89
Exiting Setup Utility ............................................................................................................ 90
Setup Utility menus ............................................................................................................................ 90
Main menu ......................................................................................................................... 90
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Security menu .................................................................................................................... 90
System Configuration menu .............................................................................................. 90
Diagnostics menu .............................................................................................................. 91
Appendix B Software updates ........................................................................................................................ 92
Updating the BIOS ............................................................................................................................. 92
Determining the BIOS version ........................................................................................... 92
Downloading a BIOS update ............................................................................................. 93
Updating programs and drivers .......................................................................................................... 93
Index ................................................................................................................................................................... 95
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1 Notebook tour
Identifying the hardware
Components included with the computer may vary by region and model. The illustrations in this chapter
identify the standard features on most computer models.
To see a list of hardware installed in the computer:
1. Select Start > Control Panel > System and Security.
2. In the System area, click Device Manager.
You can also add hardware or modify device configurations using Device Manager.
Top components
TouchPad
Component Description
(1) TouchPad on/off button* Turns the TouchPad on and off. Quickly double-tap the button to turn the
(2) TouchPad* Moves the pointer and selects or activates items on the screen.
(3) Left TouchPad button* Functions like the left button on an external mouse.
ENWW Identifying the hardware 1
TouchPad on and off.
Lights
Component Description
(4) Right TouchPad button* Functions like the right button on an external mouse.
*This table describes factory settings. To view or change pointing device preferences, select Start > Devices and Printers.
Then, right-click the icon representing your device, and select Mouse settings.
Component Description
(1) TouchPad light On: TouchPad is disabled.
(2) Caps lock light On: Caps lock is on.
(3) Power light
(4) Mute light On: Speaker sound is off.
(5) Wireless light
(6) Keyboard backlight (select
models only)
On: The computer is on.
●
Blinking: The computer is in the Sleep state.
●
NOTE: Another power light is located on the left side of the computer.
White: An integrated wireless device, such as a wireless local area
●
network (WLAN) device and/or a Bluetooth® device, is on.
NOTE: Wireless devices are enabled at the factory.
Amber: All wireless devices are off.
●
On: The keyboard backlight is enabled.
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Buttons
Component Description
(1) TouchPad on/off button* Turns the TouchPad on and off. Quickly double-tap the button to
turn the TouchPad on and off.
(2) Power button*
*This table describes factory settings. For information about changing factory settings, refer to the user guides located in Help
and Support.
When the computer is off, press the button to turn on the
●
computer.
When the computer is on, press the button briefly to initiate
●
Sleep.
When the computer is in the Sleep state, press the button
●
briefly to exit Sleep.
When the computer is in Hibernation, press the button briefly
●
to exit Hibernation.
If the computer has stopped responding and Windows® shutdown
procedures are ineffective, press and hold the power button for at
least 5 seconds to turn off the computer.
To learn more about your power settings, select Start > Control
Panel > System and Security > Power Options.
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Keys
Component Description
(1) esc key Displays system information when pressed in combination with the
(2) fn key Displays system information when pressed in combination with the
(3) Windows logo key Displays the Windows Start menu.
(4) Action keys Execute frequently used functions.
(5) Windows applications key Displays a shortcut menu for items beneath the pointer.
(6) Keyboard backlight key (select models only) Turns the keyboard backlight on and off.
Front components
fn key.
esc key.
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Component Description
(1) Digital Media Slot Supports the following optional digital card formats:
(2) Speakers (2) Produce sound.
Right-side components
Memory Stick (MS)
●
Memory Stick Pro (MSP)
●
MultiMediaCard (MMC)
●
Secure Digital High Capacity (SDHC) Memory
●
card (standard and large size)
xD-Picture card (XD)
●
Component Description
(1) Optical drive Reads/Writes optical discs.
(2) Optical drive light
(3) USB ports (2) Connect optional USB devices.
(4) Battery light
(5) Power connector Connects an AC adapter.
(6) Security cable slot Attaches an optional security cable to the computer.
On: The optical drive is being accessed.
●
Off: The optical drive is idle.
●
White: The computer is connected to external
●
power and the battery is fully charged.
Amber: The computer is connected to external
●
power and the battery is charging.
Blinking: A battery that is the only available
●
power source has reached a low battery level.
When the battery reaches a critical battery level,
the battery light continues to blink.
NOTE: The security cable is designed to act as a
deterrent, but it may not prevent the computer from
being mishandled or stolen.
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Left-side components
Component Description
(1) Vents (2) Enable airflow to cool internal components.
(2) External monitor port Connects an optional external display, such as a
NOTE: The computer fan starts up automatically
to cool internal components and prevent
overheating. It is normal for the internal fan to cycle
on and off during routine operation.
monitor or projector, to the computer.
(3) RJ-45 (network) lights (2)
(4) RJ-45 (network) jack Connects a network cable.
(5) HDMI port Connects an optional HDMI device.
(6) eSATA/USB port Connects high-performance eSATA components,
(7) Audio-in (microphone) jack Connects an optional computer headset
(8) Audio-out (headphone) jack Produces sound when connected to optional
(9) Drive light
(10) Power light
White: The network is connected.
●
Amber: The network is showing activity.
●
such as an eSATA external hard drive, or connects
an optional USB device.
microphone, stereo array microphone, or monaural
microphone.
powered stereo speakers, headphones, ear buds, a
headset, or television audio.
White: The hard drive is being accessed.
●
Amber: HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive
●
Protection has temporarily parked the hard
drive.
On: The computer is on.
●
Blinking: The computer is in the Sleep state.
●
NOTE: Another power light is located next to the
power button.
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Display components
Component Description
(1) Internal microphones (2) Record sound.
(2) HP TrueVision webcam light On: The HP TrueVision webcam is in use.
(3) HP TrueVision webcam Records video and captures still photographs.
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Bottom components
Component Description
(1) Battery bay Holds the battery.
(2) Battery release latch Releases the battery from the battery bay.
(3) Vents (6) Enable airflow to cool internal components.
(4) Hard drive bay Holds the hard drive.
(5) Memory/Wireless module compartment Holds a wireless LAN module, a wireless WAN module, and
Wireless antennas
On select computer models, at least 2 antennas send and receive signals from one or more wireless
devices. These antennas are not visible from the outside of the computer.
NOTE: The computer fan starts up automatically to cool internal
components and prevent overheating. It is normal for the internal
fan to cycle on and off during routine operation.
memory modules.
NOTE: To prevent an unresponsive system, replace the wireless
module only with a wireless module authorized for use in the
computer by the governmental agency that regulates wireless
devices in your country or region. If you replace the module and
then receive a warning message, remove the module to restore
computer functionality, and then contact technical support through
Help and Support.
8 Chapter 1 Notebook tour ENWW
Component Description
(1) WLAN antennas (2)* Send and receive wireless signals to communicate with wireless
(2) WWAN antennas (2)* (select models only) Send and receive wireless signals to communicate with wireless
*The antennas are not visible from the outside of the computer. For optimal transmission, keep the areas immediately around
the antennas free from obstructions.
To see wireless regulatory notices, refer to the section of the Regulatory, Safety and Environmental
Notices that applies to your country or region. These notices are located in Help and Support.
Additional hardware components
local area networks (WLAN).
wide-area networks (WWAN).
Component Description
(1) Power cord* Connects an AC adapter to an AC outlet.
ENWW Identifying the hardware 9
Component Description
(2) AC adapter Converts AC power to DC power.
(3) Battery* Powers the computer when the computer is not plugged into
*Batteries and power cords vary in appearance by region and country.
Identifying the labels
The labels affixed to the computer provide information you may need when you troubleshoot system
problems or travel internationally with the computer:
Serial number label—Provides important information, including the following:
●
external power.
Component
(1) Product name
(2) Serial number
(3) Product number
(4) Warranty period
(5) Model description (select models)
Have this information available when you contact technical support. The serial number label is
affixed to the bottom of the computer.
Microsoft® Certificate of Authenticity—Contains the Windows Product Key. You may need the
●
Product Key to update or troubleshoot the operating system. This certificate is affixed to the bottom
of the computer.
Regulatory label—Provides regulatory information about the computer. The regulatory label is
●
located inside the battery bay.
Wireless certification label(s) (select models only)—Provide information about optional wireless
●
devices and the approval markings of some of the countries or regions in which the devices have
been approved for use. An optional device may be a wireless local area network (WLAN) device
or an optional Bluetooth® device.Wireless certification labels are affixed to the bottom of the
computer or inside the battery bay.
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SIM (subscriber identity module) label (select models only)—Provides the ICCID (Integrated Circuit
●
Card Identifier) of your SIM. This label is located inside the battery bay.
HP Mobile Broadband Module serial number label (select models only)—Provides the serial
●
number of your HP Mobile Broadband Module. This label is affixed on the bottom of the computer
or located inside the battery bay.
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2 Wireless and local area network
Using wireless devices
Wireless technology transfers data across radio waves instead of wires. Your computer may be
equipped with one or more of the following wireless devices:
Wireless local area network (WLAN) device—Connects the computer to wireless local area
●
networks (commonly referred to as Wi-Fi networks, wireless LANs, or WLANs) in corporate offices,
your home, and public places such as airports, restaurants, coffee shops, hotels, and universities.
In a WLAN, each mobile wireless device communicates with a wireless router or a wireless access
point.
HP Mobile Broadband Module—A wireless wide area network (WWAN) device that provides
●
access to information wherever mobile network operator service is available. In a WWAN, each
mobile device communicates to a mobile network operator’s base station. Mobile network operators
install networks of base stations (similar to cell phone towers) throughout large geographic areas,
effectively providing coverage across entire states, regions, or even countries.
Bluetooth® device—Creates a personal area network (PAN) to connect to other Bluetooth-enabled
●
devices such as computers, phones, printers, headsets, speakers, and cameras. In a PAN, each
device communicates directly with other devices, and devices must be relatively close together—
typically within 10 meters (approximately 33 feet) of each other.
Computers with WLAN devices support one or more of the following IEEE industry standards:
802.11b, the first popular standard, supports data rates of up to 11 Mbps and operates at a
●
frequency of 2.4 GHz.
802.11g supports data rates of up to 54 Mbps and operates at a frequency of 2.4 GHz. An 802.11g
●
WLAN device is backward compatible with 802.11b devices, so they can operate on the same
network.
802.11a supports data rates of up to 54 Mbps and operates at a frequency of 5 GHz.
●
NOTE: 802.11a is not compatible with 802.11b and 802.11g.
802.11n supports data rates of up to 450 Mbps and may operate at 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz, making it
●
backward compatible with 802.11a, b, and g.
For more information on wireless technology, refer to the information and Web site links provided in
Help and Support.
Identifying wireless and network status icons
Icon Name Description
Wireless (connected) Identifies the location of the wireless light and the wireless
action key on the computer. Also identifies the Wireless
Assistant software on the computer and indicates that one or
more of the wireless devices are on.
Wireless (disconnected) Identifies the Wireless Assistant software on the computer
and indicates that all of the wireless devices are off.
12 Chapter 2 Wireless and local area network ENWW
Icon Name Description
Wired network (connected) Indicates that one or more of your network drivers are
installed and one or more network devices are connected to
the network.
Wired network (disabled/disconnected) Indicates that one or more of your network drivers are
installed, all network devices or all wireless devices are
disabled in Windows® Control Panel, and no network
devices are connected to a wired network.
Network (disabled/disconnected) Indicates that one or more of your network drivers are
installed, no wireless connections are available or all wireless
network devices are disabled by the wireless action key or
Wireless Assistant, and no network devices are connected
to a wired network.
Network (connected) Indicates that one or more of your network drivers are
installed, one or more network devices are connected to a
wireless network, and one or more network devices are
connected to a wired network.
Network (disconnected) Indicates that one or more of your network drivers are
installed and wireless connections are available, but no
network devices are connected to a wired or wireless
network.
Using the wireless controls
You can control the wireless devices in your computer using these features:
Wireless action key
●
HP Wireless Assistant software
●
Operating system controls
●
Using the wireless action key
The computer has a wireless action key, one or more wireless devices, and a wireless light. All of the
wireless devices on your computer are enabled at the factory, so the wireless light is white when you
turn on the computer.
The wireless light indicates the overall power state of your wireless devices, not the status of individual
devices. If the wireless light is white, at least one wireless device is on. If the wireless light is amber, all
wireless devices are off.
Because the wireless devices are enabled at the factory, you can use the wireless action key to turn on
or turn off the wireless devices simultaneously. Individual wireless devices can be controlled through
HP Wireless Assistant software.
Using HP Wireless Assistant software
A wireless device can be turned on or off using HP Wireless Assistant software. If a wireless device is
disabled in Setup Utility, it must be reenabled in Setup Utility before it can be turned on or off using
Wireless Assistant.
NOTE: Enabling or turning on a wireless device does not automatically connect the computer to a
network or a Bluetooth-enabled device.
ENWW Using wireless devices 13
To view the state of the wireless devices, click the Show hidden icons icon, the arrow at the left of the
notification area, and position the mouse pointer over the wireless icon.
If the wireless icon is not displayed in the notification area, complete the following steps to change
Wireless Assistant properties:
1. Select Start > Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > Windows Mobility Center.
2. Click the wireless icon in the Wireless Assistant tile, which is located in the bottom row of Windows®
Mobility Center.
3. Click Properties.
4. Select the check box next to HP Wireless Assistant icon in notification area.
5. Click Apply.
6. Click Close.
For more information, refer to the Wireless Assistant software Help:
1. Open Wireless Assistant by clicking the wireless icon in Windows Mobility Center.
2. Click the Help button.
Using operating system controls
Some operating systems also offer a way to manage integrated wireless devices and the wireless
connection. For example, Windows provides the Network and Sharing Center that allows you to set up
a connection or network, connect to a network, manage wireless networks, and diagnose and repair
network problems.
To access the Network and Sharing Center, select Start > Control Panel > Network and Internet >
Network and Sharing Center.
For more information, select Start > Help and Support.
Using a WLAN
With a WLAN device, you can access a wireless local area network (WLAN), which is composed of other
computers and accessories that are linked by a wireless router or a wireless access point.
NOTE: The terms wireless router and wireless access point are often used interchangeably.
A large-scale WLAN, such as a corporate or public WLAN, typically uses wireless access points
●
that can accommodate a large number of computers and accessories and can separate critical
network functions.
A home or small office WLAN typically uses a wireless router, which allows several wireless and
●
wired computers to share an Internet connection, a printer, and files without requiring additional
pieces of hardware or software.
To use the WLAN device in your computer, you must connect to a WLAN infrastructure (provided through
a service provider or a public or corporate network).
14 Chapter 2 Wireless and local area network ENWW
Setting up a WLAN
To set up a WLAN and connect to the Internet, you need the following equipment:
A broadband modem (either DSL or cable) (1) and high-speed Internet service purchased from an
●
Internet service provider (ISP)
A wireless router (purchased separately) (2)
●
The wireless computer (3)
●
The following illustration shows an example of a wireless network installation that is connected to the
Internet.
As your network grows, additional wireless and wired computers can be connected to the network to
access the Internet.
For help in setting up your WLAN, refer to the information provided by your router manufacturer or your
ISP.
Protecting your WLAN
Because the WLAN standard was designed with only limited security capabilities—basically to foil casual
eavesdropping rather than more powerful forms of attack—it is essential to understand that WLANs are
vulnerable to well-known and well-documented security weaknesses.
WLANs in public areas, or “hotspots,” like coffee shops and airports may not provide any security. New
technologies are being developed by wireless manufacturers and hotspot service providers that make
the public environment more secure and anonymous. If you are concerned about the security of your
computer in a hotspot, limit your network activities to noncritical e-mail and basic Internet surfing.
When you set up a WLAN or access an existing WLAN, always enable security features to protect your
network from unauthorized access. The common security levels are Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA)Personal and Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP). Because wireless radio signals travel outside the
network, other WLAN devices can pick up unprotected signals and either connect to your network
(uninvited) or capture information being sent across it. However, you can take precautions to protect
your WLAN:
Use a wireless transmitter with built-in security
●
Many wireless base stations, gateways, or routers provide built-in security features such as
wireless security protocols and firewalls. With the correct wireless transmitter, you can protect your
network from the most common wireless security risks.
Work behind a firewall
●
A firewall is a barrier that checks both data and requests for data that are sent to your network,
and discards any suspicious items. Firewalls are available in many varieties, both software and
hardware. Some networks use a combination of both types.
Use wireless encryption
●
ENWW Using a WLAN 15
A variety of sophisticated encryption protocols is available for your WLAN. Find the solution that
works best for your network security:
Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) is a wireless security protocol that encodes or encrypts all
◦
network data before it is transmitted using a WEP key. Usually, you can allow the network to
assign the WEP key. Alternatively, you can set up your own key, generate a different key, or
choose other advanced options. Without the correct key, others will not be able to use the
WLAN.
WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access), like WEP, uses security settings to encrypt and decrypt data
◦
that is transmitted over the network. However, instead of using one static security key for
encryptions as WEP does, WPA uses “temporal key integrity protocol” (TKIP) to dynamically
generate a new key for every packet. It also generates different sets of keys for each computer
on the network.
Connecting to a WLAN
To connect to the WLAN, follow these steps:
1. Be sure that the WLAN device is on. If it is on, the wireless light is white. If the wireless light is
amber, press the wireless action key.
2. Click the network icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar.
3. Select your WLAN from the list.
4. Click Connect.
If the network is a security-enabled WLAN, you are prompted to enter a network security key, which
is a security code. Type the code, and then click OK to complete the connection.
NOTE: If no WLANs are listed, you are out of range of a wireless router or access point.
NOTE: If you do not see the network you want to connect to, click Open Network and Sharing
Center, and then click Set up a new connection or network. A list of options is displayed. You
can choose to manually search for and connect to a network or to create a new network connection.
After the connection is made, place the mouse pointer over the network icon in the notification area, at
the far right of the taskbar, to verify the name and status of the connection.
NOTE: The functional range (how far your wireless signals travel) depends on WLAN implementation,
router manufacturer, and interference from other electronic devices or structural barriers such as walls
and floors.
More information about using a WLAN is available through the following resources:
Information from your ISP and the manufacturer's instructions included with your wireless router
●
and other WLAN equipment
Information and Web site links provided in Help and Support
●
For a list of public WLANs near you, contact your ISP or search the Web. Web sites that list public
WLANs include Cisco Internet Mobile Office Wireless Locations, Hotspotlist, and Geektools. Check with
each public WLAN location for cost and connection requirements.
For additional information on connecting your computer to a corporate WLAN, contact your network
administrator or IT department.
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Roaming to another network
When you move your computer within range of another WLAN, Windows attempts to connect to that
network. If the attempt is successful, your computer is automatically connected to the new network. If
Windows does not recognize the new network, follow the same procedure you used initially to connect
to your WLAN.
Using HP Mobile Broadband
HP Mobile Broadband enables your computer to use wireless wide area networks (WWANs) to access
the Internet from more places and over larger areas than it can by using WLANs. Using HP Mobile
Broadband requires a network service provider (called a mobile network operator), which in most cases
is a mobile phone network operator. Coverage for HP Mobile Broadband is similar to mobile phone voice
coverage.
When used with mobile network operator service, HP Mobile Broadband gives you the freedom to stay
connected to the Internet, send e-mail, or connect to your corporate network whether you are on the
road or outside the range of Wi-Fi hotspots.
HP Mobile Broadband supports UNDP (Universal Notebook Data Platform), which enables data
connectivity for notebook computers.
You may need the HP Mobile Broadband Module serial number to activate mobile broadband service.
The serial number is printed on a label inside the battery bay of your computer.
Some mobile network operators require the use of a subscriber identity module (SIM). A SIM contains
basic information about you, such as a personal identification number (PIN), as well as network
information. Some computers include a SIM that is preinstalled in the battery bay. If the SIM is not
preinstalled, it may be provided in the HP Mobile Broadband information provided with your computer,
or the mobile network operator may provide it separately from the computer.
For information on inserting and removing the SIM, refer to the “Inserting a SIM” and “Removing a SIM”
sections in this chapter.
For information on HP Mobile Broadband and how to activate service with a preferred mobile network
operator, refer to the HP Mobile Broadband information included with your computer. For additional
information, see the HP Web site at
Inserting a SIM
CAUTION: When inserting a SIM, position the card with the slanted corner as shown in the illustration.
If a SIM is inserted backwards or upside down, the battery may not snap into place properly and could
damage the SIM and the SIM connector.
To prevent damage to the connectors, use minimal force when inserting a SIM.
To insert a SIM:
1. Shut down the computer. If you are not sure whether the computer is off or in Hibernation, turn the
computer on by pressing the power button. Then shut down the computer through the operating
system.
2. Close the display.
3. Disconnect all external devices connected to the computer.
4. Unplug the power cord from the AC outlet.
5. Turn the computer upside down on a flat surface, with the battery bay toward you.
http://www.hp.com/go/mobilebroadband (United States only).
ENWW Using HP Mobile Broadband 17
6. Remove the battery.
7. Insert the SIM card into the slot.
8. Replace the battery.
NOTE: HP Mobile Broadband will be disabled if the battery is not replaced.
9. Turn the computer right-side up, and then reconnect external power and external devices.
10. Turn on the computer.
Removing a SIM
To remove a SIM:
1. Shut down the computer. If you are not sure whether the computer is off or in Hibernation, turn the
computer on by pressing the power button. Then shut down the computer through the operating
system.
2. Close the display.
3. Disconnect all external devices connected to the computer.
4. Unplug the power cord from the AC outlet.
5. Turn the computer upside down on a flat surface, with the battery bay toward you.
6. Remove the battery.
18 Chapter 2 Wireless and local area network ENWW
7. Push in on the SIM card (1) to release it, and then remove the SIM card (2).
8. Replace the battery.
9. Turn the computer right-side up, and then reconnect external power and external devices.
10. Turn on the computer.
Using Bluetooth wireless devices
A Bluetooth device provides short-range wireless communications that replace the physical cable
connections that traditionally link electronic devices such as the following:
Computers (desktop, notebook, PDA)
●
Phones (cellular, cordless, smart phone)
●
Imaging devices (printer, camera)
●
Audio devices (headset, speakers)
●
Bluetooth devices provide peer-to-peer capability that allows you to set up a personal area network
(PAN) of Bluetooth devices. For information on configuring and using Bluetooth devices, refer to the
Bluetooth software Help.
Bluetooth and Internet Connection Sharing (ICS)
HP does not recommend setting up one computer with Bluetooth as a host and using it as a gateway
through which other computers may connect to the Internet. When two or more computers are connected
using Bluetooth, and Internet Connection Sharing (ICS) is enabled on one of the computers, the other
computers may not be able to connect to the Internet using the Bluetooth network.
The strength of Bluetooth is in synchronizing information transfers between your computer and wireless
devices including cellular phones, printers, cameras, and PDAs. The inability to consistently connect
two or more computers to share the Internet through Bluetooth is a limitation of Bluetooth and the
Windows operating system.
ENWW Using Bluetooth wireless devices 19
Troubleshooting wireless connection problems
Some possible causes for wireless connection problems include the following:
Network configuration (SSID or security) has been changed.
●
Wireless device is not installed correctly or has been disabled.
●
Wireless device or router hardware has failed.
●
Wireless device encountered interference from other devices.
●
NOTE: Wireless networking devices are included with select computer models only. If wireless
networking is not listed in the feature list on the side of the original computer package, you may add
wireless networking capability to the computer by purchasing a wireless networking device.
Before working your way through the sequence of possible solutions to your network connection
problem, be sure that device drivers are installed for all wireless devices.
Use the procedures in this chapter to diagnose and repair a computer that does not connect to the
network you want to use.
Cannot connect to a WLAN
If you have a problem connecting to a WLAN, confirm that the integrated WLAN device is properly
installed on your computer:
NOTE: Windows includes the User Account Control feature to improve the security of your computer.
You may be prompted for your permission or password for tasks such as installing software, running
utilities, or changing Windows settings. Refer to Help and Support for more information.
1. Select Start > Control Panel > System and Security.
2. In the System area, click Device Manager.
3. Click the arrow next to Network adapters to expand the list and show all adapters.
4. Identify the WLAN device from the Network adapters list. The listing for a WLAN device may include
the terms wireless, wireless LAN, WLAN, Wi-Fi, or 802.11.
If no WLAN device is listed, either your computer does not have an integrated WLAN device, or
the driver of the WLAN device is not properly installed.
For more information on troubleshooting WLANs, refer to the Web site links provided in Help and
Support.
Cannot connect to a preferred WLAN network
Windows can automatically repair a corrupted WLAN connection:
If there is a network icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar, right-click the icon,
●
and then click Troubleshoot problems.
Windows resets your network device and attempts to reconnect to one of the preferred networks.
If there is no network icon in the notification area, follow these steps:
●
1. Select Start > Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center.
2. Click Troubleshoot problems and select the network you wish to repair.
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