HP EliteBook 725 User Manual
User Guide
© Copyright 2014 Hewlett-Packard
Development Company, L.P.
AMD is a trademark of Advanced Micro
Devices, Inc. Bluetooth is a trademark
owned by its proprietor and used by
Hewlett-Packard Company under license.
Java is a U.S. trademark of Sun
Microsystems, Inc. Microsoft and Windows
are U.S. registered trademarks of the
Microsoft group of companies.
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: March 2014
Document Part Number: 764239-001
Product notice
This user guide describes features that are
common to most models. Some features
may not be available on your computer.
Not all features are available in all editions
of Windows. This computer may require
upgraded and/or separately purchased
hardware, drivers and/or software to take
full advantage of Windows functionality. Go
to
http://www.microsoft.com for details.
To access the latest user guide, go to
http://www.hp.com/support, and select your
country. Select Drivers & Downloads, and
then follow the on-screen instructions.
Software terms
By installing, copying, downloading, or
otherwise using any software product
preinstalled on this computer, you agree to
be bound by the terms of the HP End User
License Agreement (EULA). If you do not
accept these license terms, your sole
remedy is to return the entire unused
product (hardware and software) within 14
days for a full refund subject to the refund
policy of your seller.
For any further information or to request a
full refund of the price of the computer,
please contact your seller.
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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iv Safety warning notice ENWW
Table of contents
1 Welcome ........................................................................................................................................................... 1
Finding information ............................................................................................................................... 2
2 Getting to know your computer ......................................................................................................................... 5
Right ..................................................................................................................................................... 5
Left ....................................................................................................................................................... 7
Display .................................................................................................................................................. 8
Top ....................................................................................................................................................... 9
TouchPad ............................................................................................................................ 9
Lights ................................................................................................................................. 10
Buttons, speakers, and fingerprint reader (select models only) ......................................... 11
Keys ................................................................................................................................... 13
Bottom ................................................................................................................................................ 14
Front ................................................................................................................................................... 16
3 Connecting to a network ................................................................................................................................. 17
Connecting to a wireless network ....................................................................................................... 17
Using the wireless controls ................................................................................................ 17
Using the wireless button .................................................................................. 17
Using operating system controls ....................................................................... 18
Using a WLAN ................................................................................................................... 18
Using an Internet service provider .................................................................... 18
Setting up a WLAN ............................................................................................ 19
Configuring a wireless router ............................................................................ 19
Protecting your WLAN ....................................................................................... 19
Connecting to a WLAN ...................................................................................... 20
Using HP Mobile Broadband (select models only) ............................................................ 20
Inserting and removing a SIM ........................................................................... 21
Using GPS ......................................................................................................................... 22
Using Bluetooth wireless devices ...................................................................................... 22
Connecting to a wired network ........................................................................................................... 23
ENWW v
Connecting to a local area network (LAN) ......................................................................... 23
4 Navigating using the keyboard, touch gestures and pointing devices ............................................................ 25
Using pointing devices ....................................................................................................................... 26
Setting pointing device preferences ................................................................................... 26
Using the pointing stick ...................................................................................................... 26
Using the TouchPad and gestures .................................................................................... 26
Turning the TouchPad off and on ...................................................................... 27
Tapping ............................................................................................................. 27
Scrolling ............................................................................................................ 28
2-finger pinch zoom ........................................................................................... 28
2-finger click ...................................................................................................... 29
Flicking (select models only) ............................................................................. 29
Edge swipes (select models only) ..................................................................... 30
Right-edge swipe .............................................................................. 30
Left-edge swipe ................................................................................ 30
Top-edge swipe ................................................................................ 31
Using the keyboard ............................................................................................................................ 32
Using Windows shortcut keys ............................................................................................ 32
Identifying the hot keys ...................................................................................................... 32
Using keypads ................................................................................................................... 33
Using the embedded numeric keypad ............................................................... 33
Turning the embedded numeric keypad on and off .......................... 34
Switching key functions on the embedded numeric keypad ............. 34
Using an optional external numeric keypad ...................................................... 34
5 Multimedia ....................................................................................................................................................... 35
Using the media activity controls ........................................................................................................ 35
Audio .................................................................................................................................................. 35
Connecting speakers ......................................................................................................... 35
Adjusting the volume ......................................................................................................... 36
Connecting headphones and microphones ....................................................................... 36
Checking audio functions on the computer ........................................................................ 36
Webcam (select models only) ............................................................................................................ 37
Video .................................................................................................................................................. 37
VGA ................................................................................................................................... 37
DisplayPort (select models only) ....................................................................................... 38
Discovering and connecting to Miracast-compatible wireless displays (select models
only) ................................................................................................................................... 39
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6 Power management ........................................................................................................................................ 41
Shutting down the computer ............................................................................................................... 41
Setting power options ......................................................................................................................... 42
Using power-saving states ................................................................................................. 42
Initiating and exiting Sleep ................................................................................ 42
Enabling and exiting user-initiated Hibernation ................................................. 42
Using the power meter and power settings ....................................................... 43
Setting password protection on wakeup ........................................................... 43
Using battery power ........................................................................................................... 43
Finding additional battery information ............................................................... 43
Using Battery Check ......................................................................................... 44
Displaying the remaining battery charge ........................................................... 44
Maximizing battery discharge time .................................................................... 44
Managing low battery levels .............................................................................. 44
Identifying low battery levels ............................................................. 45
Resolving a low battery level ............................................................ 45
Inserting or removing the battery ...................................................................... 45
Inserting a battery ............................................................................. 45
Removing a battery .......................................................................... 46
Conserving battery power ................................................................................. 47
Storing a user-replaceable battery (select models only) ................................... 47
Disposing of a user-replaceable battery ............................................................ 48
Replacing a user-replaceable battery ............................................................... 48
Using external AC power ................................................................................................... 48
Testing an AC adapter ...................................................................................... 49
Hybrid Graphics and AMD Dual Graphics (select models only) ........................................ 49
Using Hybrid Graphics (select models only) ..................................................... 49
Using AMD Dual Graphics (select models only) ............................................... 50
7 External cards and devices ............................................................................................................................. 51
Using memory card readers (select models only) .............................................................................. 51
Inserting a memory card .................................................................................................... 51
Removing a memory card .................................................................................................. 51
Using smart cards .............................................................................................................................. 52
Inserting a smart card ........................................................................................................ 52
Removing a smart card ...................................................................................................... 53
Using a USB device ........................................................................................................................... 53
Connecting a USB device .................................................................................................. 53
Removing a USB device .................................................................................................... 54
Using optional external devices .......................................................................................................... 54
Using optional external drives ............................................................................................ 54
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8 Drives .............................................................................................................................................................. 55
Handling drives ................................................................................................................................... 55
Using hard drives ............................................................................................................................... 56
Removing or replacing the service door ............................................................................ 56
Removing the service door ............................................................................... 56
Replacing the service door ................................................................................ 57
Replacing or upgrading the hard drive ............................................................................... 57
Removing the hard drive ................................................................................... 58
Installing a hard drive ........................................................................................ 58
Improving hard drive performance ..................................................................................... 59
Using Disk Defragmenter .................................................................................. 59
Using Disk Cleanup ........................................................................................... 60
Using HP 3D DriveGuard ................................................................................................... 60
Identifying HP 3D DriveGuard status ................................................................ 60
9 Security ........................................................................................................................................................... 61
Protecting the computer ..................................................................................................................... 61
Using passwords ................................................................................................................................ 62
Setting passwords in Windows .......................................................................................... 62
Setting passwords in Computer Setup .............................................................................. 63
Managing a BIOS administrator password ........................................................................ 63
Entering a BIOS administrator password .......................................................... 64
Managing a Computer Setup DriveLock password ........................................................... 64
Setting a DriveLock password ........................................................................... 65
Entering a DriveLock password ........................................................................ 66
Changing a DriveLock password ...................................................................... 66
Removing DriveLock protection ........................................................................ 66
Using Computer Setup Automatic DriveLock .................................................................... 67
Entering an Automatic DriveLock password ..................................................... 67
Removing Automatic DriveLock protection ....................................................... 68
Using antivirus software ..................................................................................................................... 68
Using firewall software ....................................................................................................................... 68
Installing critical security updates ....................................................................................................... 69
Using HP Client Security .................................................................................................................... 69
Installing an optional security cable .................................................................................................... 69
Using the fingerprint reader (select models only) ............................................................................... 70
Locating the fingerprint reader ........................................................................................... 70
10 Maintenance ................................................................................................................................................. 71
Adding or replacing memory modules ................................................................................................ 71
viii ENWW
Cleaning your computer ..................................................................................................................... 73
Cleaning procedures .......................................................................................................... 74
Cleaning the display (All-in-Ones or Notebooks) .............................................. 74
Cleaning the sides or cover ............................................................................... 74
Cleaning the TouchPad, keyboard, or mouse ................................................... 74
Updating programs and drivers .......................................................................................................... 75
Using SoftPaq Download Manager .................................................................................................... 75
11 Backup and recovery .................................................................................................................................... 77
Backing up your information ............................................................................................................... 77
Performing a system recovery ............................................................................................................ 77
Using the Windows recovery tools ..................................................................................... 78
Using f11 recovery tools .................................................................................................... 78
Using Windows operating system media (purchased separately) ..................................... 79
Using Windows Refresh or Windows Reset ...................................................................... 80
Using HP Software Setup .................................................................................................. 80
12 Computer Setup (BIOS), MultiBoot, and HP PC Hardware Diagnostics (UEFI) ........................................... 81
Using Computer Setup ....................................................................................................................... 81
Starting Computer Setup ................................................................................................... 81
Navigating and selecting in Computer Setup ..................................................................... 81
Restoring factory settings in Computer Setup ................................................................... 82
Updating the BIOS ............................................................................................................. 83
Determining the BIOS version ........................................................................... 83
Downloading a BIOS update ............................................................................. 83
Using MultiBoot .................................................................................................................................. 84
About the boot device order ............................................................................................... 84
Choosing MultiBoot preferences ........................................................................................ 84
Setting a new boot order in Computer Setup .................................................... 85
Dynamically choosing a boot device using the f9 prompt ................................. 85
Setting a MultiBoot Express prompt .................................................................. 86
Entering MultiBoot Express preferences ........................................................... 86
Using HP PC Hardware Diagnostics (UEFI) ...................................................................................... 86
Downloading HP PC Hardware Diagnostics (UEFI) to a USB device ............................... 87
13 Support ......................................................................................................................................................... 89
Contacting support ............................................................................................................................. 89
Labels ................................................................................................................................................. 90
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14 Specifications ................................................................................................................................................ 91
Input power ......................................................................................................................................... 91
Operating environment ....................................................................................................................... 92
Appendix A Traveling with the computer ........................................................................................................... 93
Appendix B Troubleshooting .............................................................................................................................. 95
Troubleshooting resources ................................................................................................................. 95
Resolving issues ................................................................................................................................ 95
The computer is unable to start up .................................................................................... 95
The computer screen is blank ............................................................................................ 96
Software is functioning abnormally .................................................................................... 96
The computer is on but not responding ............................................................................. 96
The computer is unusually warm ....................................................................................... 96
An external device is not working ...................................................................................... 97
The wireless network connection is not working ................................................................ 97
A disc does not play ........................................................................................................... 97
A movie is not visible on an external display ..................................................................... 98
The process of burning a disc does not begin, or it stops before completion .................... 98
Appendix C Electrostatic discharge ................................................................................................................... 99
Index ................................................................................................................................................................. 101
x ENWW
1Welcome
After you set up and register the computer, it is important to take the following steps:
TIP: To quickly return to the computer Start screen from an open app or the Windows desktop,
press the Windows key
the previous screen.
Connect to the Internet—Set up your wired or wireless network so that you can connect to the
●
Internet. For more information, see
Update your antivirus software—Protect your computer from damage caused by viruses. The
●
software is preinstalled on the computer. For more information, see
on page 68.
Get to know your computer—Learn about your computer features. See
●
computer on page 5 and Navigating using the keyboard, touch gestures and pointing devices
on page 25 for additional information.
Find installed software—Access a list of the software preinstalled on the computer:
●
From the Start screen, type a, click Apps, and then select from the displayed options. For details
about using the software included with the computer, see the software manufacturer's
instructions, which may be provided with the software or on the manufacturer's website.
Back up your hard drive by creating recovery discs or a recovery flash drive. See
●
recovery on page 77.
on your keyboard. Pressing the Windows key again will return you to
Connecting to a network on page 17.
Using antivirus software
Getting to know your
Backup and
ENWW 1
Finding information
You have already used
Setup Instructions
to turn on the computer and locate this guide. To locate
resources that provide product details, how-to information, and more, use this table.
Resources For information about
Setup Instructions
HP Support Assistant
To access HP Support Assistant, from the Start
screen, select the HP Support Assistant app.
To access the latest user guide, go to
http://www.hp.com/support, and select your country.
Select Drivers & Downloads, and then follow the onscreen instructions.
Worldwide support
To get support in your language, go to
http://welcome.hp.com/country/us/en/
wwcontact_us.html.
HP website
To access the latest user guide, go to
http://www.hp.com/support, and select your country.
Select Drivers & Downloads, and then follow the onscreen instructions.
poster
How to set up the computer
●
Help to identify computer components
●
Operating system information
●
Software, driver, and BIOS updates
●
Troubleshooting tools
●
How to access support
●
Online chat with an HP technician
●
Email support
●
Support telephone numbers
●
HP service center locations
●
Support information
●
Ordering parts and finding additional help
●
Accessories available for the device
●
Safety & Comfort Guide
To access this guide:
From the Start screen, type support, and then
▲
select the HP Support Assistant app.
– or –
Go to
http://www.hp.com/ergo.
Regulatory, Safety, and Environmental Notices
To access this guide:
1. From the Start screen, type support, and then
select the HP Support Assistant app.
2. Select My computer, and then select User
guides.
Proper workstation setup, posture, health, and work habits
●
Electrical and mechanical safety information
●
Regulatory and safety information
●
Battery disposal information
●
2 Chapter 1 Welcome ENWW
Resources For information about
Limited Warranty
To access this guide, from the Start screen, select the
HP Support Assistant app, select My computer, and
then select Warranty and services.
– or –
Go to
http://www.hp.com/go/orderdocuments.
*You can find the expressly provided HP Limited Warranty applicable to your product located with the user guides on your
computer and/or on the CD/DVD provided in the box. In some countries/regions, HP may provide a printed HP Limited
Warranty in the box. For some countries/regions where the warranty is not provided in printed format, you may request a
printed copy from
North America: Hewlett-Packard, MS POD, 11311 Chinden Blvd., Boise, ID 83714, USA
●
Europe, Middle East, Africa: Hewlett-Packard, POD, Via G. Di Vittorio, 9, 20063, Cernusco s/Naviglio (MI), Italy
●
Asia Pacific: Hewlett-Packard, POD, P.O. Box 200, Alexandra Post Office, Singapore 911507
●
When you request a printed copy of your warranty, please include your product number, warranty period (found on your
service label), name, and postal address.
IMPORTANT: Do NOT return your HP product to the addresses above. For U.S. support, go to
contactHP. For worldwide support, go to http://welcome.hp.com/country/us/en/wwcontact_us.html.
*
http://www.hp.com/go/orderdocuments or write to:
Warranty information
http://www.hp.com/go/
ENWW Finding information 3
4 Chapter 1 Welcome ENWW
2 Getting to know your computer
Right
Component Description
(1)
(2)
(3)
Audio-out (headphone)/Audio-in
(microphone) jack
DisplayPort Connects an optional digital display device, such as a high-
USB 3.0 ports (2) Each USB 3.0 port connects an optional USB device, such
Connects optional powered stereo speakers, headphones,
earbuds, a headset, or a television audio cable. Also
connects an optional headset microphone. This jack does
not support optional microphone-only devices.
WARNING! To reduce the risk of personal injury, adjust
the volume before putting on headphones, earbuds, or a
headset. For additional safety information, see the
Regulatory, Safety, and Environmental Notices
this guide, from the Start screen, type support, and then
select the HP Support Assistant app.
NOTE: When a device is connected to the jack, the
computer speakers are disabled.
NOTE: Be sure that the device cable has a 4-conductor
connector that supports both audio-out (headphone) and
audio-in (microphone).
performance monitor or projector.
as a keyboard, mouse, external drive, printer, scanner or
USB hub.
For details about different types of USB ports, see
USB device on page 53.
. To access
Using a
(4) Memory card reader Reads optional memory cards that store, manage, share,
or access information.
ENWW Right 5
Component Description
(5)
(6) Docking port Connects an optional docking device.
(7)
RJ-45 (network) jack/lights Connects a network cable.
Green (left): The network is connected.
●
Amber (right): Activity is occurring on the network.
●
Power connector Connects an AC adapter.
6 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer ENWW
Left
Component Description
(1)
(2) Vent Enables airflow to cool internal components.
(3)
(4)
Security cable slot Attaches an optional security cable to the computer.
NOTE: The security cable is designed to act as a
deterrent, but it may not prevent the computer from being
mishandled or stolen.
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.
External VGA monitor port Connects an external VGA monitor or projector.
USB 3.0 charging (powered) port Connects an optional USB device, such as a keyboard,
mouse, external drive, printer, scanner or USB hub.
Standard USB ports will not charge all USB devices or will
charge using a low current. Some USB devices require
power and require you to use a powered port.
NOTE: USB charging ports can also charge select
models of cell phones and MP3 players, even when the
computer is off.
For details about different types of USB ports, see
USB device on page 53.
Using a
(5) Smart card reader Supports optional smart cards.
ENWW Left 7
Display
Component Description
(1) WLAN antennas (2)* Send and receive wireless signals to communicate with wireless
local area networks (WLAN).
(2) WWAN antennas (2)* Send and receive wireless signals to communicate with wireless
wide area networks (WWAN).
(3) Internal microphones (2) Record sound.
(4) Webcam light (select models only) On: The webcam is in use.
(5) Webcam (select models only) Records video and captures photographs. Some models allow
you to video conference and chat online using streaming video.
For information on using the webcam, access HP Support
Assistant. To access HP Support Assistant, from the Start
screen, select the HP Support Assistant app.
(6) Internal display switch Turns off the display or initiates Sleep if the display is closed
while the power is on.
NOTE: The display switch is not visible from the outside of the
computer.
*The antennas are not visible from the outside of the computer. For optimal transmission, keep the areas immediately
around the antennas free from obstructions. For wireless regulatory notices, see the section of the
Environmental Notices
and then select the HP Support Assistant app.
that applies to your country or region. To access this guide, from the Start screen, type support,
Regulatory, Safety, and
8 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer ENWW
Top
TouchPad
Component Description
(1) Pointing stick Moves the pointer and selects or activates items on the
screen.
(2) Left pointing stick button Functions like the left button on an external mouse.
(3) TouchPad on/off button and light Turns the TouchPad on and off.
On: The TouchPad is off.
●
Off: The TouchPad is on.
●
(4) TouchPad zone Moves the pointer and selects or activates items on the
screen.
(5) Left TouchPad button Functions like the left button on an external mouse.
(6) Right pointing stick button Functions like the right button on an external mouse.
(7) Right TouchPad button Functions like the right button on an external mouse.
ENWW Top 9
Lights
Component Description
(1)
(2) Caps lock light On: Caps lock is on, which switches the keys to all capital
(3)
(4) Num lock light On: Num lock is on.
(5)
(6)
Power light
Microphone mute light
Wireless light On: An integrated wireless device, such as a wireless local
Mute light
On: The computer is on.
●
Blinking: The computer is in the Sleep state, a power-
●
saving state. The computer shuts off power to the
display and other unneeded components.
Off: The computer is off or in Hibernation. Hibernation
●
is a power-saving state that uses the least amount of
power.
letters.
Amber: microphone sound is off.
●
Off: microphone sound is on.
●
area network (WLAN) device and/or a Bluetooth® device, is
on.
Amber: Computer sound is off.
●
Off: Computer sound is on.
●
10 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer ENWW
Buttons, speakers, and fingerprint reader (select models only)
Component Description
(1)
(2) Speakers (2) Produce sound.
(3)
Power button
Wireless button Turns the wireless feature on or off but does not establish a
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.
CAUTION: Pressing and holding down the power button
will result in the loss of unsaved information.
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, see your power
options. From the Start screen, type power, select Power
and sleep settings, and then select Power and sleep from
the list of applications.
wireless connection.
ENWW Top 11
Component Description
(4)
(5) Fingerprint reader (select models only) Allows a fingerprint logon to Windows, instead of a password
Volume mute button Mutes and restores speaker sound.
logon.
12 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer ENWW
Keys
Component Description
(1) esc key Displays system information when pressed in combination
with the fn key.
(2) fn key Executes frequently used system functions when pressed
in combination with a function key, the num lk key, the esc
key, or the b key.
(3)
(4) Function keys Execute frequently used system functions when pressed in
(5) Embedded numeric keypad When the keypad is turned on, it can be used like an
(6) num lk key Turns the embedded numeric keypad on and off when
Windows key Returns you to the Start screen from an open app or the
Windows desktop.
NOTE: Pressing the Windows key again will return you to
the previous screen.
combination with the fn key.
external numeric keypad.
Each key on the keypad performs the function indicated by
the icon in the upper-right corner of the key.
pressed in combination with the fn key.
ENWW Top 13
Bottom
Component Description
(1) Service door Provides access to the hard drive bay, the wireless
LAN (WLAN) module slot, the WWAN module slot
(select models only), and the memory module slots.
CAUTION: To prevent an unresponsive system,
replace the wireless module only with a wireless
module authorized for use in the computer by the
governmental agency that regulates wireless devices
in your country or region. If you replace the module
and then receive a warning message, remove the
module to restore computer functionality, and then
contact support through HP Support Assistant. To
access HP Support Assistant, from the Start screen,
select the HP Support Assistant app.
14 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer ENWW
Component Description
(2)
(3) Vents (2) Enable airflow to cool internal components.
Service door release latch Releases the service door.
NOTE: A security screw is available to prevent the
service door from being accidentally removed.
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.
ENWW Bottom 15
Front
Component Description
(1)
(2)
(3)
Wireless light On: An integrated wireless device, such as a wireless
local area network (WLAN) device and/or a
Bluetooth® device, is on.
Power light
AC adapter/Battery light
On: The computer is on.
●
Blinking: The computer is in the Sleep state, a
●
power-saving state. The computer shuts off
power to the display and other unneeded
components.
Off: The computer is off or in Hibernation.
●
Hibernation is a power-saving state that uses the
least amount of power.
White: The computer is connected to external
●
power and the battery is charged from 90 to 99
percent.
Amber: The computer is connected to external
●
power and the battery is charged from 0 to 90
percent.
Blinking amber: 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 begins blinking
rapidly.
Off: The battery is fully charged.
●
(4)
Hard drive light
Blinking white: The hard drive is being accessed.
●
Amber: HP 3D DriveGuard has temporarily
●
parked the hard drive.
NOTE: For more information about HP 3D
DriveGuard, see
on page 60.
Using HP 3D DriveGuard
16 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer ENWW
3 Connecting to a network
Your computer can travel with you wherever you go. But even at home, you can explore the globe
and access information from millions of websites using your computer and a wired or wireless
network connection. This chapter will help you get connected to that world.
Connecting to a wireless network
Wireless technology transfers data across radio waves instead of wires. Your computer may be
equipped with one or more of the following wireless devices:
Wireless local area network (WLAN) device—Connects the computer to wireless local area
●
networks (commonly referred to as Wi-Fi networks, wireless LANs, or WLANs) in corporate
offices, your home, and public places such as airports, restaurants, coffee shops, hotels, and
universities. In a WLAN, the mobile wireless device in your computer communicates with a
wireless router or a wireless access point.
HP Mobile Broadband Module (select models only)—A wireless wide area network (WWAN)
●
device that gives you wireless connectivity over a much larger area. Mobile network operators
install 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.
For more information about wireless technology, see the information and website links provided in HP
Support Assistant. To access HP Support Assistant, from the Start screen, select the HP Support
Assistant app.
Using the wireless controls
You can control the wireless devices in your computer using these features:
Wireless button
●
Operating system controls
●
Using the wireless button
The computer has a wireless button, one or more wireless devices, and one or two wireless lights,
depending on the model. All of the wireless devices on your computer are enabled at the factory, so
the wireless light is on (white) when you turn on the computer.
ENWW Connecting to a wireless network 17
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.
NOTE: On some models, the wireless light is amber when all wireless devices are off.
Because the wireless devices are enabled at the factory, you can use the wireless button to turn on or
turn off the wireless devices simultaneously.
Using operating system controls
The Network and Sharing Center allows you to set up a connection or network, connect to a network,
and diagnose and repair network problems.
To use operating system controls:
1. From the Start screen, type control panel, and then select Control Panel.
2. Select Network and Internet, and then select Network and Sharing Center.
For more information, access HP Support Assistant. To access HP Support Assistant, from the Start
screen, select the HP Support Assistant app.
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
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).
wireless router
Using an Internet service provider
When you are setting up Internet access in your home, you must establish an account with an
Internet service provider (ISP). To purchase Internet service and a modem, contact a local ISP. The
ISP will help set up the modem, install a network cable to connect your wireless computer to the
modem, and test the Internet service.
NOTE: Your ISP will give you a user ID and a password to use for Internet access. Record this
information and store it in a safe place.
and
wireless access point
are often used interchangeably.
18 Chapter 3 Connecting to a 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
A wireless router (2) (purchased separately)
●
A wireless computer (3)
●
NOTE: Some modems have a built-in wireless router. Check with your ISP to determine what type
of modem you have.
The illustration below shows an example of a wireless network installation that is connected to the
Internet.
As your network grows, additional wireless and wired computers can be connected to the network to
access the Internet.
For help in setting up your WLAN, see the information provided by your router manufacturer or your
ISP.
Configuring a wireless router
For help in configuring a wireless router, see the information provided by your router manufacturer or
your ISP.
NOTE: It is recommended that you initially connect your new wireless computer to the router by
using the network cable provided with the router. When the computer successfully connects to the
Internet, disconnect the cable, and access the Internet through your wireless network.
Protecting your WLAN
When you set up a WLAN or access an existing WLAN, always enable security features to protect
your network from unauthorized access. WLANs in public areas (hotspots) like coffee shops and
airports may not provide any security. If you are concerned about the security of your computer in a
hotspot, limit your network activities to email that is not confidential and basic Internet surfing.
Wireless radio signals travel outside the network, so other WLAN devices can pick up unprotected
signals. Take the following precautions to protect your WLAN:
Use a firewall.
●
A firewall checks both data and requests for data that are sent to your network, and discards any
suspicious items. Firewalls are available in both software and hardware. Some networks use a
combination of both types.
Use wireless encryption.
●
ENWW Connecting to a wireless network 19
Wireless encryption uses security settings to encrypt and decrypt data that is transmitted over
the network. For more information, access HP Support Assistant. To access HP Support
Assistant, from the Start screen, select the HP Support Assistant app.
Connecting to a WLAN
To connect to the WLAN, follow these steps:
1. Be sure that the WLAN device is on. If the device is on, the wireless light is on. If the wireless
light is amber, press the wireless button.
2. From the Start screen, point to the far-right upper or lower corner of the screen to display the
charms.
3. Select Settings, and then click the network status icon.
4. Select your WLAN from the list.
5. Click Connect.
If the WLAN is a security-enabled WLAN, you are prompted to enter a security code. Type the
code, and then click Sign in.
NOTE: If no WLANs are listed, you may be out of range of a wireless router or access point.
NOTE: If you do not see the WLAN you want to connect to, from the Windows desktop, right-
click the network status icon, and then select Open Network and Sharing Center. Click Set up a
new connection or network. A list of options is displayed, allowing you to manually search for
and connect to a network or to create a new network connection.
6. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the connection.
After the connection is made, place the mouse pointer over the network status icon in the notification
area, at the far right of the taskbar, to verify the name and status of the connection.
NOTE: The functional range (how far your wireless signals travel) depends on WLAN
implementation, router manufacturer, and interference from other electronic devices or structural
barriers such as walls and floors.
Using HP Mobile Broadband (select models only)
HP Mobile Broadband enables your computer to use 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
network operator. Coverage for HP Mobile Broadband is similar to cellular phone voice coverage.
When used with mobile network operator service, HP Mobile Broadband gives you the freedom to
stay connected to the Internet, send email, or connect to your corporate network whether you are on
the road or outside the range of Wi-Fi hotspots.
HP supports the following technologies:
mobile network operator
), which in most cases is a cellular phone
20 Chapter 3 Connecting to a network ENWW
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