HP EliteBook 8440p User Manual

HP EliteBook

User Guide

© Copyright 2010 Hewlett-Packard
Development Company, L.P.

Bluetooth is a trademark owned by its
proprietor and used by Hewlett-Packard
Company under license. Intel is a trademark
of Intel Corporation in the U.S. and other
countries. Java is a U.S. trademark of Sun
Microsystems, Inc. Microsoft and Windows
are U.S. registered trademarks of Microsoft
Corporation. SD Logo is a trademark of its
proprietor.

The information contained herein is subject
to change without notice. The only
warranties for HP products and services are
set forth in the express warranty statements
accompanying such products and services.
Nothing herein should be construed as
constituting an additional warranty. HP shall
not be liable for technical or editorial errors
or omissions contained herein.

First Edition: January 2010

Document Part Number: 582867-001

Product notice

This user guide describes features that are
common to most models. Some features
may not be available on your computer.

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).

iii

iv Safety warning notice

Table of contents

1 Features

Identifying hardware ............................................................................................................................. 1

Top components .................................................................................................................. 1

Pointing devices .................................................................................................. 1

Lights ................................................................................................................... 2

Buttons, switches, and fingerprint reader ............................................................ 4

Keys .................................................................................................................... 5

Front components ................................................................................................................ 6

Rear components ................................................................................................................ 7

Right-side components ........................................................................................................ 7

Left-side components .......................................................................................................... 8

Bottom components ............................................................................................................. 9

Display components ......................................................................................................... 10

Wireless antennas (select models only) ............................................................................ 11

Additional hardware components ...................................................................................... 12

Identifying the labels ........................................................................................................................... 12

2 Wireless, modem, and local area network

Using wireless devices (select models only) ...................................................................................... 14

Identifying wireless and network icons .............................................................................. 15

Using the wireless controls ................................................................................................ 15

Using the wireless button ................................................................................................... 15

Using Wireless Assistant software (select models only) .................................................... 16

Using HP Connection Manager (select models only) ........................................................ 16

Using operating system controls ........................................................................................ 17

Using a WLAN device (select models only) ....................................................................................... 18

Setting up a WLAN ............................................................................................................ 18

Protecting your WLAN ....................................................................................................... 18

Connecting to a WLAN ...................................................................................................... 19

Roaming to another network .............................................................................................. 20

Using HP Mobile Broadband (select models only) ............................................................................. 21

Inserting a SIM (select models only) .................................................................................. 21

Removing a SIM (select models only) ............................................................................... 22

Using a Bluetooth wireless device (select models only) ..................................................................... 24

v

Bluetooth and Internet Connection Sharing (ICS) ............................................................. 24

Troubleshooting wireless connection problems ................................................................................. 25

Cannot create a WLAN connection ................................................................................... 25

Cannot connect to a preferred network ............................................................................. 26

Network icon is not displayed ............................................................................................ 26

Current network security codes are unavailable ................................................................ 26

WLAN connection is very weak ......................................................................................... 27

Cannot connect to the wireless router ............................................................................... 27

Using the modem (select models only) .............................................................................................. 28

Connecting a modem cable (purchased separately) ......................................................... 28

Connecting a country- or region-specific modem cable adapter (purchased

separately) ......................................................................................................................... 28

Selecting a location setting ................................................................................................ 29

Viewing the current location selection ............................................................... 29

Adding new locations when traveling ................................................................ 29

Solving travel connection problems .................................................................. 30

Connecting to a local area network (LAN) .......................................................................................... 32

3 Pointing devices and keyboard

Using pointing devices ....................................................................................................................... 33

Setting pointing device preferences ................................................................................... 33

Using the TouchPad .......................................................................................................... 33

Using the pointing stick ...................................................................................................... 33

Connecting an external mouse .......................................................................................... 33

Using the keyboard ............................................................................................................................ 33

Using hotkeys .................................................................................................................... 33

Displaying system information .......................................................................... 34

Initiating Sleep ................................................................................................... 34

Switching the screen image .............................................................................. 35

Viewing battery charge information ................................................................... 35

Decreasing screen brightness ........................................................................... 35

Increasing screen brightness ............................................................................ 35

Activating the ambient light sensor ................................................................... 35

Using HP QuickLook .......................................................................................................................... 36

Using keypads .................................................................................................................................... 36

Using the embedded numeric keypad ............................................................................... 37

Enabling and disabling the embedded numeric keypad .................................... 37

Switching key functions on the embedded numeric keypad ............................. 37

Using an optional external numeric keypad ....................................................................... 37

Cleaning the TouchPad, keyboard, and vents ................................................................................... 38

4 Multimedia

Multimedia features ............................................................................................................................ 39

vi

Adjusting the volume ......................................................................................................... 39

Multimedia software ........................................................................................................................... 40

Accessing your preinstalled multimedia software .............................................................. 41

Installing multimedia software from a disc ......................................................................... 41

Audio .................................................................................................................................................. 42

Connecting external audio devices .................................................................................... 42

Checking your audio functions ........................................................................................... 42

Video .................................................................................................................................................. 44

Connecting an external monitor or projector ...................................................................... 44

Using the external monitor port ......................................................................... 44

Using the DisplayPort ........................................................................................ 44

Optical drive (select models only) ...................................................................................................... 46

Identifying the optical drive ................................................................................................ 46

Using optical discs (CDs, DVDs, and BDs) ....................................................................... 46

Selecting the right disc (CDs, DVDs, and BDs) ................................................................. 47

CD-R discs ........................................................................................................ 47

CD-RW discs ..................................................................................................... 47

DVD±R discs ..................................................................................................... 47

DVD±RW discs ................................................................................................. 48

LightScribe DVD+R discs .................................................................................. 48

Blu-ray Discs (BDs) ........................................................................................... 48

Playing a CD, DVD, or BD ................................................................................................. 48

Configuring AutoPlay ......................................................................................................... 49

Changing DVD region settings .......................................................................................... 49

Observing the copyright warning ....................................................................................... 50

Copying a CD, DVD, or BD ................................................................................................ 50

Creating (burning) a CD, DVD, or BD ................................................................................ 51

Removing an optical disc (CD, DVD, or BD) ..................................................................... 51

Troubleshooting ................................................................................................................. 52

The optical disc tray does not open for removal of a CD, DVD, or BD ............. 52

The computer does not detect the optical drive ................................................ 53

A disc does not play .......................................................................................... 54

A disc does not play automatically .................................................................... 54

A movie stops, skips, or plays erratically .......................................................... 55

A movie is not visible on an external display ..................................................... 55

The process of burning a disc does not begin, or it stops before

completion ......................................................................................................... 55

A device driver must be reinstalled ................................................................... 56

Obtaining the latest HP device drivers ............................................. 56

Obtaining Microsoft device drivers ................................................... 56

Webcam (select models only) ............................................................................................................ 57

Adjusting webcam properties ............................................................................................. 57

Capturing business card images ....................................................................................... 58

vii

5 Power management

Setting power options ......................................................................................................................... 60

Using power-saving states ................................................................................................. 60

Using the battery meter ..................................................................................................... 61

Using power plans ............................................................................................................. 61

Setting password protection on wakeup ............................................................................ 62

Using Power Assistant (select models only) ...................................................................................... 63

Starting Power Assistant .................................................................................................... 63

Using external AC power .................................................................................................................... 63

Connecting the AC adapter ............................................................................................... 64

Using battery power ........................................................................................................................... 64

Finding battery information in Help and Support ............................................................... 65

Using Battery Check .......................................................................................................... 65

Displaying the remaining battery charge ........................................................................... 65

Inserting or removing the battery ....................................................................................... 65

Charging a battery ............................................................................................................. 66

Maximizing battery discharge time .................................................................................... 67

Managing low battery levels .............................................................................................. 67

Calibrating a battery ........................................................................................................... 69

Conserving battery power .................................................................................................. 71

Storing a battery ................................................................................................................ 71

Disposing of a used battery ............................................................................................... 71

Replacing the battery ......................................................................................................... 71

Testing an AC adapter ....................................................................................................................... 73

Shutting down the computer ............................................................................................................... 73

Initiating and exiting Sleep ................................................................................ 60

Initiating and exiting Hibernation ....................................................................... 61

Viewing the current power plan ......................................................................... 62

Selecting a different power plan ........................................................................ 62

Customizing power plans .................................................................................. 62

Identifying low battery levels ............................................................................. 68

Resolving a low battery level ............................................................................. 68

Resolving a low battery level when external power is available ....... 68

Resolving a low battery level when a charged battery is

available ........................................................................................... 68

Resolving a low battery level when no power source is

available ........................................................................................... 68

Resolving a low battery level when the computer cannot exit

Hibernation ....................................................................................... 68

Step 1: Fully charge the battery ........................................................................ 69

Step 2: Disable Hibernation and Sleep ............................................................. 69

Step 3: Discharge the battery ............................................................................ 70

Step 4: Fully recharge the battery ..................................................................... 70

Step 5: Reenable Hibernation and Sleep .......................................................... 70

viii

6 Drives

Identifying installed drives .................................................................................................................. 75

Handling drives ................................................................................................................................... 75

Improving hard drive performance ..................................................................................................... 77

Using HP 3D DriveGuard ................................................................................................................... 78

Replacing a hard drive in the hard drive bay ...................................................................................... 80

Replacing a drive in the upgrade bay ................................................................................................. 83

7 External devices

Using a USB device ........................................................................................................................... 89

Using a 1394 device ........................................................................................................................... 91

Using external drives .......................................................................................................................... 93

Using a docking device ...................................................................................................................... 94

Using Disk Defragmenter ................................................................................................... 77

Using Disk Cleanup ........................................................................................................... 77

Identifying HP 3D DriveGuard status ................................................................................. 78

Using HP 3D DriveGuard software .................................................................................... 79

Removing the protective insert .......................................................................................... 83

Replacing a hard drive ....................................................................................................... 83

Replacing an optical drive .................................................................................................. 86

Connecting a USB device .................................................................................................. 89

Removing a USB device .................................................................................................... 90

Using USB legacy support ................................................................................................. 90

Connecting a 1394 device ................................................................................................. 91

Removing a 1394 device ................................................................................................... 91

Using optional external devices ......................................................................................... 93

8 External media cards

Using SD Card Reader cards ............................................................................................................. 95

Inserting a digital card ........................................................................................................ 95

Removing a digital card ..................................................................................................... 96

Using ExpressCards (select models only) .......................................................................................... 96

Configuring an ExpressCard .............................................................................................. 96

Inserting an ExpressCard .................................................................................................. 96

Removing an ExpressCard ................................................................................................ 97

Using smart cards (select models only) ............................................................................................. 98

Inserting a smart card ........................................................................................................ 99

Removing a smart card ...................................................................................................... 99

9 Memory modules

Adding or replacing a memory module in the expansion memory module slot ................................ 101

Upgrading a memory module in the primary memory module slot ................................................... 104

ix

10 Security

Protecting the computer ................................................................................................................... 108

Using passwords .............................................................................................................................. 109

Using Computer Setup security features .......................................................................................... 115

Using antivirus software ................................................................................................................... 117

Using firewall software ..................................................................................................................... 118

Installing critical updates .................................................................................................................. 119

Using HP ProtectTools Security Manager (select models only) ....................................................... 120

Installing a security cable ................................................................................................................. 121

Setting passwords in Windows ........................................................................................ 109

Setting passwords in Computer Setup ............................................................................ 109

BIOS administrator password .......................................................................................... 110

Managing a BIOS administrator password ...................................................... 110

Entering a BIOS administrator password ........................................................ 111

Using Computer Setup DriveLock ................................................................................... 111

Setting a DriveLock password ......................................................................... 112

Entering a DriveLock password ...................................................................... 112

Changing a DriveLock password .................................................................... 113

Removing DriveLock protection ...................................................................... 113

Using Computer Setup Auto DriveLock ........................................................................... 114

Entering an Automatic DriveLock password ................................................... 114

Removing Automatic DriveLock protection ..................................................... 114

Securing system devices ................................................................................................. 115

Viewing Computer Setup System Information ................................................................. 115

Using Computer Setup System IDs ................................................................................. 116

11 Software updates

Updating software ............................................................................................................................ 123

Updating the BIOS ........................................................................................................................... 124

Determining the BIOS version ......................................................................................... 124

Downloading a BIOS update ........................................................................................... 124

Updating programs and drivers ........................................................................................................ 126

Using SoftPaq Download Manager .................................................................................................. 127

12 Backup and recovery

Backing up your information ............................................................................................................. 129

Performing a recovery ...................................................................................................................... 131

Using the Windows recovery tools ................................................................................... 131

Using f11 recovery tools .................................................................................................. 132

Using a Windows 7 operating system DVD (purchased separately) ............................... 132

13 Computer Setup

Starting Computer Setup .................................................................................................................. 134

x

Using Computer Setup ..................................................................................................................... 134

Navigating and selecting in Computer Setup ................................................................... 134

Restoring factory settings in Computer Setup ................................................................. 135

Computer Setup menus ................................................................................................................... 135

File menu ......................................................................................................................... 136

Security menu .................................................................................................................. 13 6

System Configuration menu ............................................................................................ 137

14 MultiBoot

About the boot device order ............................................................................................................. 142

Enabling boot devices in Computer Setup ....................................................................................... 143

Considering boot order changes ...................................................................................................... 144

Choosing MultiBoot preferences ...................................................................................................... 145

Setting a new boot order in Computer Setup ................................................................... 145

Dynamically choosing a boot device ................................................................................ 146

Setting a MultiBoot Express prompt ................................................................................ 146

Entering MultiBoot Express preferences ......................................................................... 146

15 Management and printing

Using Client Management Solutions ................................................................................................ 148

Configuring and deploying a software image ................................................................... 148

Managing and updating software ..................................................................................... 148

Using the HP Universal Print Driver ................................................................................................. 150

HP Client Automation (select models only) ..................................................... 148

HP SSM (System Software Manager) ............................................................. 149

Index ................................................................................................................................................................. 151

xi

xii

1Features

Identifying 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:

Select Start > Control Panel > System and Security > Device Manager.

▲

You can also add hardware or modify device configurations using Device Manager.

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.

Top components

Pointing devices

Component Description

(1) Pointing stick Moves the pointer and selects or activates items on the screen.

Identifying hardware 1

Lights

Component Description

(2) Left pointing stick button Functions like the left button on an external mouse.

(3) TouchPad* Moves the pointer and selects or activates items on the screen.

(4) Left TouchPad button* Functions like the left button on an external mouse.

(5) Right pointing stick button Functions like the right button on an external mouse.

(6) TouchPad scroll zone* Scrolls up or down.

(7) 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 device representing your computer, and select Mouse settings.

Component Description

(1) Wireless lights (2)*

(2) Power lights (2)†

2 Chapter 1 Features

Blue: An integrated wireless device, such as a wireless local

●

area network (WLAN) device, the HP Mobile Broadband
Module, and/or a Bluetooth® device, is on.

Amber: All wireless devices are off.

●

On: The computer is on.

●

Blinking: The computer is in the Sleep state.

●

Blinking rapidly: An AC adapter with a higher power rating

●

should be connected.

Off: The computer is off or in Hibernation.

●

Component Description

(3) Battery light

(4) Drive light

(5) QuickLook light

(6) QuickWeb light On: Web browser is in use.

(7) TouchPad light

Amber: A battery is charging.

●

Turquoise: A battery is close to full charge capacity.

●

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: If the computer is plugged into an external power source,

●

the light turns off when all batteries in the computer are fully
charged. If the computer is not plugged into an external power
source, the light stays off until the battery reaches a low
battery level.

Blinking turquoise: The hard drive or optical drive is being

●

accessed.

Amber: HP 3D DriveGuard has temporarily parked the internal

●

hard drive, and if present, the hard drive in the upgrade bay.

On: The computer is on.

●

Off: The computer is off or in the Sleep or Hibernation state.

●

Turquoise: The TouchPad is on.

●

Amber: The TouchPad is off.

●

(8) Caps lock light On: Caps lock is on.

(9) Num lock light On: Num lock is on or the embedded numeric keypad is enabled.

(10) Volume mute light

(11) Volume down light Blinking: The volume down button is being used to decrease the

(12) Volume up light Blinking: The volume up button is being used to increase the

*The 2 wireless lights display the same information. The light on the wireless button is visible only when the computer is open.
The wireless light on the front of the computer is visible whether the computer is open or closed.

†The 2 power lights display the same information. The light on the power button is visible only when the computer is open. The
power light on the front of the computer is visible whether the computer is open or closed.

Turquoise: Speaker sound is on.

●

Amber: Speaker sound is off.

●

speaker volume.

speaker volume.

Identifying hardware 3

Buttons, switches, and fingerprint reader

Component Description

(1) Power button

(2) Internal display switch Turns off the display and initiates Sleep if the display is closed while

(3) QuickLook button

When the computer is off, press the button to turn on the

●

computer.

When the computer is on, press the button to shut down the

●

computer.

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.

the power is on.

NOTE: The internal display switch is not visible from the outside

of the computer.

When the computer is off, press the button to open HP

●

QuickLook.

When the computer is on, press the button to open Software

●

Setup.

4 Chapter 1 Features

NOTE: If Software Setup is not available, the default Web

browser opens.

Component Description

Keys

(4) QuickWeb button

(5) Wireless button Turns the wireless feature on or off but does not establish a

(6) TouchPad button Turns the TouchPad on or off.

(7) Caps lock button Turns caps lock on or off.

(8) Num lock button Turns num lock on or off.

(9) Volume mute button Mutes and restores speaker sound.

(10) Volume down button Decreases speaker volume.

(11) Volume up button Increases speaker volume.

(12) Fingerprint reader (select models only) Allows a fingerprint logon to Windows, instead of a password logon.

When the computer is off, press the button to open HP

●

QuickWeb.

When the computer is on, press the button to open the default

●

Web browser.

wireless connection.

NOTE: A wireless network must be set up in order to establish a

wireless connection.

NOTE: Your computer may look slightly different from the illustration in this section.

Component Description

(1) esc key Displays system information when pressed in combination with the

fn key.

Identifying hardware 5

Component Description

(2) fn key Executes frequently used system functions when pressed in

(3) Windows logo key Displays the Windows Start menu.

(4) Windows applications key Displays a shortcut menu for items beneath the pointer.

(5) Embedded numeric keypad keys Can be used like the keys on an external numeric keypad.

(6) Function keys Execute frequently used system functions when pressed in

Front components

combination with a function key or the esc key.

combination with the fn key.

Component Description

(1) Wireless light

(2) Power light

(3) Battery light

Blue: An integrated wireless device, such as a wireless local

●

area network (WLAN) device, the HP Mobile Broadband
Module, and/or a Bluetooth device, is on.

Amber: All wireless devices are off.

●

On: The computer is on.

●

Blinking: The computer is in the Sleep state.

●

Blinking rapidly: An AC adapter with a higher power rating

●

should be connected.

Off: The computer is off or in Hibernation.

●

Amber: A battery is charging.

●

Turquoise: A battery is close to full charge capacity.

●

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: If the computer is plugged into an external power source,

●

the light turns off when all batteries in the computer are fully
charged. If the computer is not plugged into an external power
source, the light stays off until the battery reaches a low
battery level.

6 Chapter 1 Features

Component Description

(4) Drive light

(5) Business card slot Holds a business card in position so that the webcam (select

(6) SD Card Reader Supports the Secure Digital (SD) Memory Card and

(7) Display release button Opens the computer.

(8) Speakers (2) Produce sound.

(9) Bluetooth compartment (select models only) Contains a Bluetooth device.

Rear components

Blinking turquoise: The hard drive or optical drive is being

●

accessed.

Amber: HP 3D DriveGuard has temporarily parked the internal

●

hard drive, and if present, the hard drive in the upgrade bay.

models only) can capture an image.

MultiMediaCard (MMC) optional digital card formats.

Component Description

(1) Security cable slot Attaches an optional security cable to the computer.

(2) Power connector Connects an AC adapter.

(3) DisplayPort Connects an optional digital display device such as a high-

(4) External monitor port Connects an external VGA monitor or projector.

Right-side components

NOTE: The security cable is designed to act as a deterrent, but

it may not prevent the computer from being mishandled or stolen.

performance monitor or projector.

Identifying hardware 7

Component Description

(1) Smart card reader Supports optional smart cards and Java™ cards.

(2) Upgrade bay Supports an optical drive or a hard drive.

(3) eSATA/USB port Connects an eSATA device or a USB device.

(4) RJ-45 (network) jack Connects a network cable.

(5) RJ-11 (modem) jack (select models only) Connects a modem cable (purchased separately).

Left-side components

Component Description

(1) Vent Enables airflow to cool internal components.

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.

(2) USB ports (3) Connect optional USB devices.

(3) 1394 port Connects an optional IEEE 1394 or 1394a device, such as a

camcorder.

(4) ExpressCard slot Supports optional ExpressCards.

(5) Audio-in (microphone) jack Connects an optional computer headset microphone, stereo array

(6) Audio-out (headphone) jack Produces sound when connected to optional powered stereo

microphone, or monaural microphone.

speakers, headphones, ear buds, a headset, or television audio.

NOTE: When a device is connected to the headphone jack, the

computer speakers are disabled.

8 Chapter 1 Features

Bottom components

Component Description

(1) Battery bay Holds the battery.

(2) Battery release latch Releases the battery from the battery bay.

(3) SIM slot (select models only) Contains a wireless subscriber identity module (SIM). The SIM slot

is located inside the battery bay.

(4) Docking connector Connects an optional docking device.

(5) Accessory battery connector Connects an optional accessory battery.

(6) Vents (7) Enable airflow to cool internal components.

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.

(7) WWAN/WLAN module compartment Contains a WWAN module and a WLAN module (select models

only).

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 technical support through
Help and Support.

Identifying hardware 9

Component Description

(8) Business card holder Holds a business card.

(9) Memory module compartment Contains the expansion memory module slot.

(10) Hard drive bay Holds the hard drive.

Display components

Component Description

(1) Internal display switch Turns off the display and initiates Sleep if the display is closed while

(2) Internal microphones (2) Record sound.

(3) Webcam light (select models only) On: The webcam is in use.

(4) Webcam (select models only) Records audio and video and captures still photographs.

(5) Keyboard light button Opens and turns the keyboard light on or off.

10 Chapter 1 Features

the power is on.

NOTE: The internal display switch is not visible from the outside

of the computer.

NOTE: If there is a microphone icon next to each microphone

opening, your computer has internal microphones.

Wireless antennas (select models only)

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.

Component Description

(1) WWAN antennas (2)* (select models only) Send and receive wireless signals to communicate with

(2) WLAN antennas (3)* (select models only) Send and receive wireless signals to communicate with

*The antennas are not visible from the outside of the computer. For optimal transmission, keep the areas immediately around
the antennas free from obstructions.

wireless wide-area networks (WWANs).

wireless local area networks (WLANs).

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.

Identifying hardware 11

Additional hardware components

Component Description

(1) Power cord* Connects an AC adapter to an AC outlet.

(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 country or region.

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:

Service tag—Provides important information, including the following:

●

Product name (1). This is the product name affixed to the front of the computer.

◦

Serial number (s/n) (2). This is an alphanumeric identifier that is unique to each product.

◦

Part number/Product number (p/n) (3). This number provides specific information about the

◦

product's hardware components. The part number helps a service technician to determine
what components and parts are needed.

external power.

Model description (4). This is an alphanumeric identifier used to locate documents, drivers,

◦

and support for the computer.

Warranty period (5). This number describes the duration (in years) of the warranty period for

◦

the computer.

12 Chapter 1 Features

Have this information available when you contact technical support. The service tag 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

●

affixed inside the battery bay.

Modem approval label—Provides regulatory information about the modem and lists the agency

●

approval markings required by some of the countries or regions in which the modem has been
approved for use. You may need this information when traveling internationally. The modem
approval label is affixed 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,
the HP Mobile Broadband Module (select models only), or an optional Bluetooth® device. If your
computer model includes one or more wireless devices, one or more certification labels are
included with your computer. You may need this information when traveling internationally.
Wireless certification labels are affixed to the bottom of the computer and/or inside the battery
bay.

SIM (subscriber identity module) label (select models only)—Provides the ICCID (Integrated Circuit

●

Card Identifier) of your SIM. This label is affixed to the outside packaging of the SIM (select models
only) included in the box with the computer.

HP Mobile Broadband Module serial number label (select models only)—Provides the serial

●

number of your HP Mobile Broadband Module. This label is affixed to the bottom of the
computer.

Identifying the labels 13

2 Wireless, modem, and local area

network

Using wireless devices (select models only)

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 (select models only)—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 (depending on your network configuration).

For more information on wireless technology, refer to the information and Web site links provided in
Help and Support.

14 Chapter 2 Wireless, modem, and local area network

Identifying wireless and network icons

Icon Name Description

Wireless (connected) Identifies the location of the wireless lights and the wireless buttons on

Wireless
(disconnected)

HP Connection
Manager

Wired network
(connected)

Network
(disconnected)

Network (connected) Indicates that one or more of your network drivers are installed, one or

Network (disabled/
disconnected)

the computer. Also identifies the Wireless Assistant software on the
computer and indicates that one or more of the wireless devices are on.

Indicates that all of the wireless devices are off.

Opens HP Connection Manager, which enables you to create a
connection with an HP Mobile Broadband device (select models only).

Indicates that one or more of your network drivers are installed and one
or more network devices are connected to the network.

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.

more network devices are connected to a wireless network, and one or
more network devices may be connected to a wired network.

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 button or Wireless Assistant, and no network
devices are connected to a wired network.

Wired network
(disabled/
disconnected)

Using the wireless controls

You can control the wireless devices in your computer using these features:

Wireless button

●

Wireless Assistant software (select models only)

●

HP Connection Manager software (select models only)

●

Operating system controls

●

Using the wireless button

The computer has a wireless button, one or more wireless devices, and two wireless lights. All of the
wireless devices on your computer are enabled at the factory, so the wireless light is on (blue) when
you turn on the computer.

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.

Using wireless devices (select models only) 15

The wireless light indicates the overall power state of your wireless devices, not the status of individual
devices. If the wireless light is blue, at least one wireless device is on. If the wireless light is amber, all
wireless devices are off.

Because the wireless devices are enabled at the factory, you can use the wireless button to turn on or
turn off the wireless devices simultaneously. Individual wireless devices can be controlled through
Wireless Assistant software (select models only) or through Computer Setup.

NOTE: If the wireless devices are disabled by Computer Setup, the wireless button will not work until

you reenable your devices.

Using Wireless Assistant software (select models only)

A wireless device can be turned on or off using the Wireless Assistant software. If a wireless device is
disabled by Computer Setup, it must be reenabled by Computer Setup 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.

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 cursor over the wireless icon.

If the wireless icon is not displayed in the notification area, complete the following steps to change the
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 HP Connection Manager (select models only)

You can use HP Connection Manager to connect to WWANs using the HP Mobile Broadband device in
your computer (select models only).

To start Connection Manager, click the Connection Manager icon in the notification area, at the

▲

far right of the taskbar.

– or –

Select Start > All Programs > HP Connection Manager > HP Connection Manager.

For more details about using Connection Manager, refer to the Connection Manager software Help.

16 Chapter 2 Wireless, modem, and local area network

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, refer to Help and Support. Select Start > Help and Support.

Using wireless devices (select models only) 17

Using a WLAN device (select models only)

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.

NOTE: 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).

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.

18 Chapter 2 Wireless, modem, and local area network

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) 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, and 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
then 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.

●

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 uses a WEP key to

◦

encode or encrypt all network data before it is transmitted. 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.

Close your network.

●

If possible, prevent your network name (SSID) from being broadcast by the wireless transmitter.
Most networks initially broadcast the name, telling any computer nearby that your network is
available. By closing the network, other computers are less likely to know that your network exists.

NOTE: If your network is closed and the SSID is not broadcast, you will need to know or remember

the SSID to connect new devices to the network. Write down the SSID and store it in a secure
place before closing 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 blue. If the wireless light is amber,

press the wireless button.

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.

Using a WLAN device (select models only) 19

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 set up 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.

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.

20 Chapter 2 Wireless, modem, and local area network

Using HP Mobile Broadband (select models only)

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 supports the following technologies:

HSPA (High Speed Packet Access), which provides access to networks based on the Global

●

System for Mobile Communications (GSM) telecommunications standard.

EV-DO (Evolution Data Optimized), which provides access to networks based on the code division

●

multiple access (CDMA) telecommunications standard.

You may need the HP Mobile Broadband Module serial number to activate mobile broadband service.
The serial number is printed on a label affixed to the bottom of the computer.

Some mobile network operators require the use of a subscriber identity module (SIM). A SIM contains
basic information about you, such as a PIN (personal identification number), 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

http://www.hp.com/go/mobilebroadband (US only).

Inserting a SIM (select models only)

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.

Using HP Mobile Broadband (select models only) 21

6. Remove the battery.

7. Insert the SIM into the SIM slot, and gently push the SIM into the slot until it is firmly seated.

8. Replace the battery.

NOTE: HP Mobile Broadband will be disabled if the battery is not replaced.

9. Reconnect external power.

10. Reconnect external devices.

11. Turn on the computer.

Removing a SIM (select models only)

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.

6. Remove the battery.

22 Chapter 2 Wireless, modem, and local area network

7. Press in on the SIM (1), and then remove it from the slot (2).

8. Replace the battery.

9. Reconnect external power.

10. Reconnect external devices.

11. Turn on the computer.

Using HP Mobile Broadband (select models only) 23

Using a Bluetooth wireless device (select models only)

A Bluetooth device provides short-range wireless communications that replace the physical cable
connections that traditionally link electronic devices such as the following:

Computers (desktop, notebook, PDA)

●

Phones (cellular, cordless, smart phone)

●

Imaging devices (printer, camera)

●

Audio devices (headset, speakers)

●

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.

24 Chapter 2 Wireless, modem, and local area network

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 create a WLAN connection

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 to show all of the installed adapters.

4. Identify the WLAN device from the Network adapters list. The listing for a WLAN device may include

the term 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 for the WLAN device is not properly installed.

For more information on troubleshooting WLANs, refer to the Web site links provided in Help and
Support.

Troubleshooting wireless connection problems 25

Cannot connect to a preferred 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.

Network icon is not displayed

If the network icon is not displayed in the notification area after you configure the WLAN, the software
driver is either missing or corrupted. A Windows “Device not Found” error message may also be
displayed. The driver must be reinstalled.

To get the latest version of the WLAN device software for your computer, follow these steps:

1. Open your Web browser and go to

2. Select your country or region.

3. Click the option for software and driver downloads, and then type your computer model number in

the search box.

4. Press enter, and then follow the on-screen instructions.

NOTE: If the WLAN device you are using was purchased separately, consult the manufacturer's Web

site for the latest software.

http://www.hp.com/support.

Current network security codes are unavailable

If you are prompted for a network key or a name (SSID) when connecting to a WLAN, the network is
protected by security. You must have the current codes to make a connection on a secure network. The
SSID and network key are alphanumeric codes that you enter into your computer to identify your
computer to the network.

For a network connected to your personal wireless router, review the router user guide for

●

instructions on setting up the same codes on both the router and the WLAN device.

For a private network, such as a network in an office or at a public Internet chat room, contact the

●

network administrator to obtain the codes, and then enter the codes when prompted to do so.

Some networks change the SSID or network keys used in their routers or access points on a regular
basis to improve security. You must change the corresponding code in your computer accordingly.

26 Chapter 2 Wireless, modem, and local area network

If you are provided with new wireless network keys and SSID for a network, and if you have previously
connected to that network, follow these steps to connect to the network:

1. Select Start > Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center.

2. Click Manage wireless networks in the left panel.

A list showing the available WLANs is displayed. If you are in a hotspot where several WLANs are
active, several will be displayed.

3. Select the network in the list, right-click the network, and then click Properties.

NOTE: If the network you want is not listed, check with the network administrator to be sure that

the router or access point is operating.

4. Click the Security tab, and then enter the correct wireless encryption data into the Network

security key field.

5. Click OK to save these settings.

WLAN connection is very weak

If the connection is very weak, or if your computer cannot make a connection to a WLAN, minimize
interference from other devices, as follows:

Move your computer closer to the wireless router or access point.

●

Temporarily disconnect other wireless devices such as a microwave, cordless phone, or cellular

●

phone to be sure that they are not interfering.

If the connection does not improve, try forcing the device to reestablish all connection values:

1. Select Start > Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center.

2. Click Manage wireless networks in the left panel.

A list showing the available WLANs is displayed. If you are in a hotspot where several WLANs are
active, several will be displayed.

3. Click a network, and then click Remove.

Cannot connect to the wireless router

If you are trying to connect to the wireless router and are unsuccessful, reset the wireless router by
removing power from the router for 10 to 15 seconds.

If the computer still cannot make a connection to a WLAN, restart the wireless router. For details, refer
to the router manufacturer's instructions.

Troubleshooting wireless connection problems 27

Using the modem (select models only)

The modem must be connected to an analog telephone line using a 6-pin, RJ-11 modem cable
(purchased separately). In some countries or regions, a country- or region-specific modem cable adapter
(purchased separately) is also required. Jacks for digital PBX systems may resemble analog telephone
jacks, but they are not compatible with the modem.

WARNING! Connecting the internal analog modem to a digital line can permanently damage the

modem. Immediately disconnect the modem cable if you accidentally connect it to a digital line.

If the modem cable contains noise suppression circuitry (1), which prevents interference from TV and
radio reception, orient the circuitry end (2) of the cable toward the computer.

Connecting a modem cable (purchased separately)

WARNING! To reduce the risk of electric shock, fire, or damage to the equipment, do not plug a modem

cable (purchased separately) or telephone cable into the RJ-45 (network) jack.

To connect a modem cable:

1. Plug the modem cable into the modem jack (1) on the computer.

2. Plug the modem cable into the RJ-11 telephone wall jack (2).

Connecting a country- or region-specific modem cable adapter (purchased separately)

Telephone jacks vary by country or region. To use the modem and the modem cable (purchased
separately) outside the country or region in which you purchased the computer, you must obtain a
country- or region-specific modem cable adapter (purchased separately).

28 Chapter 2 Wireless, modem, and local area network

To connect the modem to an analog telephone line that does not have an RJ-11 telephone jack, follow
these steps:

1. Plug the modem cable into the modem jack (1) on the computer.

2. Plug the modem cable into the country- or region-specific modem cable adapter (2).

3. Plug the country- or region-specific modem cable adapter (3) into the telephone wall jack.

Selecting a location setting

Viewing the current location selection

To view the current location setting for the modem, follow these steps:

1. Select Start > Control Panel.

2. Click Clock, Language, and Region.

3. Click Region and Language.

4. Click the Location tab to display your location.

Adding new locations when traveling

By default, the only location setting available to the modem is a location setting for the country or region
in which you purchased the computer. As you travel to different countries or regions, set the internal
modem to a location setting that meets the operating standards of the country or region in which you
are using the modem.

As you add new location settings, they are saved by the computer so that you can switch among settings
at any time. You can add multiple location settings for any country or region.

CAUTION: To prevent losing your home country or region settings, do not delete your current modem

country or region settings. To enable modem use in other countries or regions while preserving your
home country or region configuration, add a new configuration for each location in which you will use
the modem.

Using the modem (select models only) 29

CAUTION: To prevent configuring the modem in a way that violates the telecommunications

regulations and laws of the country or region you are visiting, select the country or region in which the
computer is located. The modem may not function properly if the correct country or region selection is
not made.

To add a location setting for the modem, follow these steps:

1. Select Start > Devices and Printers.

2. Right-click the device that represents your computer, and click Modem settings.

NOTE: You must set up an initial (current) location area code before you can view the Dialing

Rules tab. If you do not have a location set up, you will be prompted to enter the location when you
click Modem settings.

3. Click the Dialing Rules tab.

4. Click New. (The New Location window is displayed.)

5. In the Location name box, type a name (such as “home” or “work”) for the new location setting.

6. Select a country or region from the Country/region drop-down list. (If you select a country or region

that is not supported by the modem, the Country/region selection for USA or UK is displayed by
default.)

7. Enter the area code, a carrier code (if necessary), and the number to access an outside line (if

necessary).

8. Next to Dial using, click Tone or Pulse.

9. Click OK to save your new location setting. (The Phone and Modem window is displayed.)

10. Do one of the following:

To set your new location setting as the current location, click OK.

●

To select another location setting as the current location setting, select your preference from

●

the settings in the Location list, and then click OK.

NOTE: You can use the preceding procedure to add location settings for places within your own

country or region as well as in other countries or regions. For example, you could add a setting
named “Work” that includes dialing rules for accessing an outside line.

Solving travel connection problems

If you experience modem connection problems when using the computer outside of the country or region
in which you purchased it, try the following suggestions.

Check the telephone line type.

●

The modem requires an analog, not a digital, telephone line. A line described as a PBX line is
usually a digital line. A telephone line described as a data line, fax machine line, modem line, or
standard telephone line is usually an analog line.

Check for pulse or tone dialing.

●

An analog telephone line supports one of 2 dialing modes: pulse dialing or tone dialing. These
dialing mode options are selected in the Phone and Modem settings. The dialing mode option
selected must match the dialing mode supported by the telephone line in your location.

30 Chapter 2 Wireless, modem, and local area network

To determine the dialing mode supported by a telephone line, dial a few digits on the telephone,
and then listen for clicks (pulses) or tones. Clicks indicate that the telephone line supports pulse
dialing. Tones indicate that the telephone line supports tone dialing.

To change the dialing mode in your current modem location setting, follow these steps:

1. Select Start > Devices and Printers.

2. Right-click the device that represents your computer, and click Modem settings.

3. Click the Dialing Rules tab.

4. Select your modem location setting.

5. Click Edit.

6. Click either Tone or Pulse.

7. Click OK twice.

Check the telephone number you are dialing and the response of the remote modem.

●

Dial a telephone number, be sure that there is a response from the remote modem, and then hang
up.

Set the modem to ignore dial tones.

●

If the modem receives a dial tone it does not recognize, it does not dial and displays a “No Dial
Tone” error message.

To set the modem to ignore all dial tones before dialing, follow these steps:

1. Select Start > Devices and Printers.

2. Right-click the device that represents your computer, and click Modem settings.

3. Click the Modems tab.

4. Click the listing for the modem.

5. Click Properties.

6. Click Modem.

7. Clear the check box for Wait for dial tone before dialing.

8. Click OK twice.

Using the modem (select models only) 31

Connecting to a local area network (LAN)

Connecting to a local area network (LAN) requires an 8-pin, RJ-45 network cable (purchased
separately). If the network cable contains noise suppression circuitry (1), which prevents interference
from TV and radio reception, orient the circuitry end of the cable (2) toward the computer.

To connect the network cable:

1. Plug the network cable into the network jack (1) on the computer.

2. Plug the other end of the cable into a network wall jack (2).

WARNING! To reduce the risk of electric shock, fire, or damage to the equipment, do not plug a modem

or telephone cable into the RJ-45 (network) jack.

32 Chapter 2 Wireless, modem, and local area network

3 Pointing devices and keyboard

Using pointing devices

Setting pointing device preferences

Use Mouse Properties in Windows® to customize settings for pointing devices, such as button
configuration, click speed, and pointer options.

To access Mouse Properties, select Start > Devices and Printers. Then, right-click the device
representing your computer, and select Mouse settings.

Using the TouchPad

To move the pointer, slide your finger across the TouchPad surface in the direction you want the pointer
to go. Use the TouchPad buttons like the corresponding buttons on an external mouse. To scroll up and
down using the TouchPad vertical scroll zone, slide your finger up or down over the lines.

NOTE: If you are using the TouchPad to move the pointer, you must lift your finger off the TouchPad

before moving it to the scroll zone. Simply sliding your finger from the TouchPad to the scroll zone will
not activate the scrolling function.

Using the pointing stick

Press the pointing stick in the direction you want to move the pointer on the screen. Use the left and
right pointing stick buttons as you would the left and right buttons on an external mouse.

Connecting an external mouse

You can connect an external USB mouse to the computer using one of the USB ports on the computer.
A USB mouse can also be connected to the system using the ports on an optional docking device or
expansion product.

Using the keyboard

Using hotkeys

Hotkeys are combinations of the fn key (1) and either the esc key (2) or one of the function keys (3).

The icons on the f3, f4, and f8 through f11 keys represent the hotkey functions. Hotkey functions and
procedures are discussed in the following sections.

Using pointing devices 33

Function Hotkey

Display system information. fn+esc

Initiate Sleep. fn+f3

Switch the screen image. fn+f4

Display battery information. fn+f8

Decrease screen brightness. fn+f9

Increase screen brightness. fn+f10

Activate the ambient light sensor. fn+f11

To use a hotkey command on the computer keyboard, follow either of these steps:

Briefly press the fn key, and then briefly press the second key of the hotkey command.

●

– or –

Press and hold down the fn key, briefly press the second key of the hotkey command, and then

●

release both keys at the same time.

Displaying system information

Press fn+esc to display information about system hardware components and the system BIOS version
number.

In the Windows fn+esc display, the version of the system BIOS (basic input-output system) is displayed
as the BIOS date. On some computer models, the BIOS date is displayed in decimal format. The BIOS
date is sometimes called the system ROM version number.

Initiating Sleep

CAUTION: To reduce the risk of information loss, save your work before initiating Sleep.

Press fn+f3 to initiate Sleep.

34 Chapter 3 Pointing devices and keyboard

When Sleep is initiated, your information is stored in system memory, the screen is cleared, and power
is conserved. While the computer is in the Sleep state, the power lights blink.

The computer must be on before you can initiate Sleep.

NOTE: If a critical battery level occurs while the computer is in the Sleep state, the computer initiates

Hibernation and the information stored in memory is saved to the hard drive. The factory setting for
critical battery action is Hibernate, but this setting can be changed using Power Options in Windows
Control Panel.

To exit Sleep, briefly press the power button or press any key on the keyboard.

The function of the fn+f3 hotkey can be changed. For example, you can set the fn+f3 hotkey to initiate
Hibernation instead of Sleep.

NOTE: In all Windows operating system windows, references to the sleep button apply to the fn+f3

hotkey.

Switching the screen image

Press fn+f4 to switch the screen image among display devices connected to the system. For example,
if a monitor is connected to the computer, pressing fn+f4 alternates the screen image from computer
display to monitor display to simultaneous display on both the computer and the monitor.

Most external monitors receive video information from the computer using the external VGA video
standard. The fn+f4 hotkey can also alternate images among other devices receiving video information
from the computer.

The following video transmission types, with examples of devices that use them, are supported by the

fn+f4 hotkey:

LCD (computer display)

●

External VGA (most external monitors)

●

DisplayPort

●

Viewing battery charge information

Press fn+f8 to display charge information for all installed batteries. The display indicates which batteries
are charging and reports the amount of charge remaining in each battery.

Decreasing screen brightness

Press fn+f9 to decrease screen brightness. Hold down the hotkey to decrease the brightness level
incrementally.

Increasing screen brightness

Press fn+f10 to increase screen brightness. Hold down the hotkey to increase the brightness level
incrementally.

Activating the ambient light sensor

Press fn+f11 to activate and deactivate the ambient light sensor.

Using the keyboard 35

Using HP QuickLook

QuickLook allows you to save calendar, contact, inbox, and task information from Microsoft Outlook to
the hard drive of your computer. Then, when the computer is off or in Hibernation, you can press the
QuickLook button on the computer to view this information without waiting for the operating system to
restart.

Use QuickLook to manage contact information, calendar events, e-mail information, and tasks without
restarting your computer.

NOTE: QuickLook does not support the Sleep state in Windows.

NOTE: After removing the battery, you must restart the computer to reenable the HP QuickLook

feature.

For more information about setting up and using QuickLook, refer to the QuickLook software Help.

Using keypads

The computer has an embedded numeric keypad and also supports an optional external numeric keypad
or an optional external keyboard that includes a numeric keypad.

Component Description

(1) fn key Enables/disables the embedded numeric keypad when pressed in

(2) Embedded numeric keypad Can be used like the keys on an external numeric keypad when

(3) num lock light On: Num lock is on.

(4) num lk key Alternates between the navigation and numeric functions on the

36 Chapter 3 Pointing devices and keyboard

combination with the num lk key.

pressed in combination with the fn and num lk keys.

embedded numeric keypad.

Component Description

NOTE: The keypad function that is active when the computer is

turned off will be reinstated when the computer is turned back on.

Using the embedded numeric keypad

The 15 keys of the embedded numeric keypad can be used like the keys on an external keypad. When
the embedded numeric keypad is turned on, each key on the keypad performs the function indicated by
the icon in the upper-right corner of the key.

Enabling and disabling the embedded numeric keypad

Press fn+num lk to enable the embedded numeric keypad. Press fn+num lk again to return the keys to
their standard keyboard functions.

NOTE: The embedded numeric keypad will not function while an external keyboard or numeric keypad

is connected to the computer.

Switching key functions on the embedded numeric keypad

You can temporarily alternate the functions of keys on the embedded numeric keypad between their
standard keyboard functions and their keypad functions by using the fn key or the fn+shift key
combination.

To change the function of a keypad key to keypad functions while the keypad is off, press and hold

●

the fn key while pressing the keypad key.

To use the keypad keys temporarily as standard keys while the keypad is on:

●

Press and hold the fn key to type in lowercase.

◦

Press and hold fn+shift to type in uppercase.

◦

Using an optional external numeric keypad

Keys on most external numeric keypads function differently according to whether num lock is on or off.
(Num lock is turned off at the factory.) For example:

When num lock is on, most keypad keys type numbers.

●

When num lock is off, most keypad keys function like the arrow, page up, or page down keys.

●

When num lock on an external keypad is turned on, the num lock light on the computer is turned on.
When num lock on an external keypad is turned off, the num lock light on the computer is turned off.

To turn num lock on or off on an external keypad as you work:

Press the num lk key on the external keypad, not on the computer.

▲

Using keypads 37

Cleaning the TouchPad, keyboard, and vents

Dirt and grease on the TouchPad can cause the pointer to jump around on the screen. To avoid this,
clean the TouchPad with a damp cloth, and wash your hands frequently when using the computer.

WARNING! To reduce the risk of electric shock or damage to internal components, do not use a

vacuum cleaner attachment to clean the keyboard. A vacuum cleaner can deposit household debris on
the keyboard surface.

Clean the keyboard regularly to prevent keys from sticking and to remove dust, lint, and particles that
can become trapped beneath the keys. A can of compressed air with a straw extension can be used to
blow air around and under the keys to loosen and remove debris.

CAUTION: To prevent dust or lint from blocking airflow through the vents, periodically inspect them.

Use a soft brush or cloth to remove any dust or lint.

38 Chapter 3 Pointing devices and keyboard

4 Multimedia

Multimedia features

Your computer includes multimedia features that allow you to listen to music and view pictures. Your
computer may include the following multimedia components:

Optical drive for playing audio and video discs

●

Integrated speakers for listening to music

●

Integrated microphones for recording your own audio

●

Integrated webcam (select models only) that allows you to capture and share video

●

Preinstalled multimedia software that allows you to play and manage your music, movies, and

●

pictures

NOTE: Your computer may not include all of the components listed.

The following sections explain how to use the multimedia components included with your computer.

Adjusting the volume

You can adjust the volume using the following controls:

Computer volume buttons:

●

To mute or restore volume, press the volume mute button (1).

◦

To decrease volume, press the volume down button (2).

◦

Multimedia features 39

To increase volume, press the volume up button (3).

◦

Windows® volume control:

●

a. Click the Speakers icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar.

b. Increase or decrease the volume by moving the slider up or down. Click the Mute

Speakers icon to mute the volume.

– or –

a. Right-click the Speakers icon in the notification area, and then click Open Volume Mixer.

b. In the Speakers column, you can increase or decrease the volume by moving the slider up or

down. You can also mute the volume by clicking the Mute Speakers icon.

If the Speakers icon is not displayed in the notification area, follow these steps to add it:

a. Right-click the Show hidden icons icon (the arrow at the left side of the notification area).

b. Click Customize notification icons.

c. Under Behaviors, select Show icon and notifications for the Volume icon.

d. Click OK.

Program volume control:

●

Volume can also be adjusted within some programs.

Multimedia software

Your computer includes preinstalled multimedia software that allows you to play music and view pictures.
The following sections provide details about preinstalled multimedia software and installing multimedia
software from a disc.

40 Chapter 4 Multimedia

Accessing your preinstalled multimedia software

To access preinstalled multimedia software:

Select Start > All Programs, and then open the multimedia program you want to use.

▲

NOTE: Some programs may be located in subfolders.

NOTE: For details about using software included with the computer, refer to the software

manufacturer’s instructions. These instructions may be provided with the software, on disc, or on
the manufacturer’s Web site.

Installing multimedia software from a disc

To install any multimedia software from a CD or DVD, follow these steps:

1. Insert the disc into the optical drive (select models only) or an optional external optical drive.

2. When the installation wizard opens, follow the on-screen instructions.

3. Restart the computer if you are prompted to do so.

NOTE: If your computer does not have an optical drive, you can connect an external optical drive

(purchased separately) to one of the USB ports on the computer.

Multimedia software 41

Audio

Your computer enables you to use a variety of audio features:

Play music using your computer speakers and/or connected external speakers

●

Record sound using the internal microphones or connect an external microphone

●

Download music from the Internet

●

Create multimedia presentations using audio and images

●

Transmit sound and images with instant messaging programs

●

Stream radio programs (select models only) or receive FM radio signals

●

Create or “burn” audio CDs (select models only)

●

Connecting external audio devices

WARNING! To reduce the risk of personal injury, adjust the volume before putting on headphones,

earbuds, or a headset. For additional safety information, refer to the Regulatory, Safety and
Environmental Notices.

To connect external devices such as external speakers, headphone, or a microphone, refer to the
information provided with the device. For best results, remember the following tips:

Be sure that the device cable is securely connected to the correct jack on your computer. (Cable

●

connectors are normally color-coded to match the corresponding jacks on the computer.)

Be sure to install any drivers required by the external device.

●

NOTE: A driver is a required program that acts like a translator between the device and the

programs that use the device.

Checking your audio functions

To check the system sound on your computer, follow these steps:

1. Select Start > Control Panel.

2. Click Hardware and Sound.

3. Click Sound.

4. When the Sound window opens, click the Sounds tab. Under Program Events, select any sound

event, such as a beep or alarm, and click the Test button.

You should hear sound through the speakers or through connected headphones.

To check the record functions of the computer, follow these steps:

1. Select Start > All Programs > Accessories > Sound Recorder.

2. Click Start Recording and speak into the microphone. Save the file to the desktop.

3. Open Windows Media Player and play back the sound.

42 Chapter 4 Multimedia

NOTE: For best results when recording, speak directly into the microphone and record sound in a

setting free of background noise.

To confirm or change the audio settings on your computer, select Start > Control Panel > Hardware
and Sound > Sound.

Audio 43

Video

Your computer enables you to use a variety of video features:

Watch movies

●

Play games over the Internet

●

Edit pictures and video to create presentations

●

Connect external video devices

●

Connecting an external monitor or projector

Your computer has both an external monitor port and a DisplayPort that allow you to connect external
monitors and projectors.

Using the external monitor port

The external monitor port connects an external VGA display device such as an external VGA monitor
or a VGA projector to the computer. The external monitor port is an analog display interface.

To connect a VGA display device, connect the device cable to the external monitor port.

▲

NOTE: If a properly connected external display device does not display an image, press fn+f4 to

transfer the image to the device. Repeatedly pressing fn+f4 alternates the screen image between the
computer display and the device.

Using the DisplayPort

The DisplayPort connects a digital display device such as a high-performance monitor or projector. The
DisplayPort delivers higher performance over the VGA external monitor port and improves digital
connectivity.

44 Chapter 4 Multimedia

To connect a digital display device, connect the device cable to the DisplayPort.

▲

NOTE: If a properly connected external display device does not display an image, press fn+f4 to

transfer the image to the device. Repeatedly pressing fn+f4 alternates the screen image between the
computer display and the device.

Video 45

Optical drive (select models only)

Your computer may include an optical drive that expands the functionality of the computer. The optical
drive allows you to read data discs, play music, and watch movies.

Identifying the optical drive

Select Start > Computer.

▲

You will see a list of all the devices installed on your computer. You may have one of the following types
of drives:

DVD-ROM Drive

●

DVD±RW SuperMulti Double-Layer (DL) with LightScribe Drive

●

NOTE: Double-layer discs can store more data than single-layer discs. However, double-layer

discs burned with this drive may not be compatible with many existing single-layer DVD drives and
players.

Blu-ray RW Drive

●

Blu-ray ROM with LightScribe Drive

●

NOTE: Some of the preceding drives may not be supported by your computer.

Using optical discs (CDs, DVDs, and BDs)

An optical drive, such as a DVD-ROM drive, supports optical discs (CDs, DVDs, and BDs). These discs
store information, such as music, photos, and movies. DVDs and BDs have a higher storage capacity
than CDs.

Your optical drive can read standard CD and DVD discs. If your optical drive is a Blu-ray Disc (BD) drive,
it can also read BDs.

NOTE: Some of the optical drives listed may not be supported by your computer. The listed drives are

not necessarily all of the supported optical drives.

Some optical drives can also write to optical discs as described in the following table.

Optical drive type Read CD

and DVD­ROM
media

DVD-ROM Drive Yes No No No No No

DVD±RW
SuperMulti DL‡
LightScribe† Drive

Blu-ray RW Drive Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes

Blu-ray ROM with
LightScribe† Drive

Yes Yes Yes Yes No No

Yes No No Yes Yes No

Write to
CD-RW

Write to
DVD*

Write label to
LightScribe CD or
DVD

Read BD Write to BD R/RE

*Includes DVD+R DL, DVD+RW/R, and DVD-RAM.

†LightScribe discs must be purchased separately. LightScribe creates a grayscale image similar to black-and-white
photography.

46 Chapter 4 Multimedia

Optical drive type Read CD

and DVD­ROM
media

‡ Double-layer discs can store more data than single-layer discs. However, double-layer discs burned with this drive may not
be compatible with many single-layer DVD drivers and players.

Write to
CD-RW

Write to
DVD*

Write label to
LightScribe CD or
DVD

CAUTION: To prevent possible audio and video degradation, loss of information, or loss of audio or

video playback functionality, do not initiate Sleep or Hibernation while reading a CD, DVD, or BD, or
writing to a CD or DVD.

Selecting the right disc (CDs, DVDs, and BDs)

An optical drive supports optical discs (CDs, DVDs, and BDs). CDs, used to store digital data, are also
used for commercial audio recordings and are convenient for your personal storage needs. DVDs and
BDs are used primarily for movies, software, and data backup purposes. DVDs and BDs are the same
form factor as CDs but have a much higher storage capacity.

NOTE: The optical drive on your computer may not support all the types of optical discs discussed in

this section.

CD-R discs

Read BD Write to BD R/RE

Use CD-R (write-once) discs to create permanent archives and to share files with virtually anyone.
Typical uses include the following:

●

●

●

●

●

After data is recorded, it cannot be erased or written over.

CD-RW discs

Use a CD-RW disc (a rewritable version of a CD) to store large projects that must be updated frequently.
Typical uses include the following:

●

●

●

●

Distributing large presentations

Sharing scanned and digital photos, video clips, and written data

Making your own music CDs

Keeping permanent archives of computer files and scanned home records

Offloading files from your hard drive to free up disk space

Developing and maintaining large documents and project files

Transporting work files

Making weekly backups of hard drive files

Updating photos, video, audio, and data continuously

DVD±R discs

Use blank DVD±R discs to permanently store large amounts of information. After data is recorded, it
cannot be erased or written over.

Optical drive (select models only) 47

DVD±RW discs

Use DVD±RW discs if you want to be able to erase or write over data that you saved earlier. This type
of disc is ideal for testing audio or video recordings before you burn them to a CD or DVD that cannot
be changed.

LightScribe DVD+R discs

Use LightScribe DVD+R discs for sharing and storing data, home videos, and photos. These discs are
read-compatible with most DVD-ROM drives and DVD video players. With a LightScribe-enabled drive
and LightScribe software, you can write data to the disc and then add a designer label to the outside of
the disc.

Blu-ray Discs (BDs)

BD is a high-density optical disc format for the storage of digital information, including high-definition
video. A single-layer Blu-ray Disc can store 25 GB, over 5 times the storage capacity of a single-layer
DVD at 4.7 GB. A dual-layer Blu-ray Disc can store 50 GB, almost 6 times the storage capacity of a
dual-layer DVD at 8.5 GB.

Typical uses include the following:

Storage of large amounts of data

●

High-definition video playback and storage

●

Video games

●

NOTE: As Blu-ray is a new format containing new technologies, certain disc, digital connection,

compatibility and/or performance issues may arise, and do not constitute defects in the product. Flawless
playback on all systems is not guaranteed.

Playing a CD, DVD, or BD

1. Turn on the computer.

2. Press the release button (1) on the drive bezel to release the disc tray.

3. Pull out the tray (2).

4. Hold the disc by the edges to avoid touching the flat surfaces and position the disc label-side up

over the tray spindle.

NOTE: If the tray is not fully accessible, tilt the disc carefully to position it over the spindle.

48 Chapter 4 Multimedia

5. Gently press the disc (3) down onto the tray spindle until the disc snaps into place.

6. Close the disc tray.

If you have not yet configured AutoPlay, as described in the following section, an AutoPlay dialog box
opens. It prompts you to select how you want to use the media content.

NOTE: For best results, be sure that your AC adapter is plugged into an external power source while

playing a BD.

Configuring AutoPlay

1. Select Start > Default Programs > Change AutoPlay settings.

2. Confirm that the Use AutoPlay for all media and devices check box is selected.

3. Click Choose a default, and then select one of the available options for each media type listed.

NOTE: Choose WinDVD (select models only) or the default DVD player to play DVDs.

4. Click Save.

NOTE: For more information about AutoPlay, refer to Help and Support.

Changing DVD region settings

Most DVDs that contain copyrighted files also contain region codes. The region codes help protect
copyrights internationally.

You can play a DVD containing a region code only if the region code on the DVD matches the region
setting on your DVD drive.

CAUTION: The region settings on your DVD drive can be changed only 5 times.

The region setting you select the fifth time becomes the permanent region setting on the DVD drive.

The number of region changes remaining is displayed on the DVD Region tab.

Optical drive (select models only) 49

To change settings through the operating system:

1. Select Start > Control Panel > System and Security > Device Manager.

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.

2. Click the plus sign (+) next to DVD/CD-ROM drives.

3. Right-click the DVD drive for which you want to change region settings, and then click

Properties.

4. Click the DVD Region tab, and change settings.

5. Click OK.

Observing the copyright warning

It is a criminal offense, under applicable copyright laws, to make unauthorized copies of copyright­protected material, including computer programs, films, broadcasts, and sound recordings. Do not use
this computer for such purposes.

CAUTION: To prevent loss of information or damage to a disc, observe the following guidelines:

Before writing to a disc, connect the computer to a reliable external power source. Do not write to a disc
while the computer is running on battery power.

Before writing to a disc, close all open programs except the disc software you are using.

Do not copy directly from a source disc to a destination disc or from a network drive to a destination
disc. Save the information to your hard drive, and then burn from your hard drive to the destination disc.

Do not use the computer keyboard or move the computer while the computer is writing to a disc. The
write process is sensitive to vibration.

NOTE: For details about using software included with the computer, refer to the software

manufacturer’s instructions, which may be provided on disc, in the software Help, or on the
manufacturer's Web site.

Copying a CD, DVD, or BD

1. Select Start > All Programs > Roxio > Creator Business.

NOTE: If this is the first time you have used Roxio, you must accept the program license

agreement before you can complete this process.

2. In the right pane, click Copy Disc.

3. Insert the disc you want to copy into the optical drive.

4. Click Copy Disc at the bottom right of the screen.

Creator Business reads the source disc and copies the data to a temporary folder on your hard
drive.

5. When prompted, remove the source disc from the optical drive and insert a blank disc into the drive.

50 Chapter 4 Multimedia

After the information is copied, the disc you created is ejected automatically.

NOTE: Do not move the computer while it is writing to a BD.

Creating (burning) a CD, DVD, or BD

CAUTION: Observe the copyright warning. It is a criminal offense, under applicable copyright laws,

to make unauthorized copies of copyright-protected material, including computer programs, films,
broadcasts, and sound recordings. Do not use this computer for such purposes.

If your optical drive is a CD-RW, DVD-RW, or DVD±RW optical drive, you can use software such as
Windows Media Player to burn data and audio files, including MP3 and WAV music files.

Observe the following guidelines when burning a CD, DVD, or BD:

Before burning a disc, save and close any open files and close all programs.

●

A CD-R or DVD-R is usually best for burning audio files because after the information is copied, it

●

cannot be changed.

Because some home and car stereos will not play CD-RWs, use CD-Rs to burn music CDs.

●

A CD-RW or DVD-RW is generally best for burning data files or for testing audio or video recordings

●

before you burn them to a CD or DVD that cannot be changed.

DVD players used in home systems usually do not support all DVD formats. Refer to the user guide

●

that came with your DVD player for a list of supported formats.

An MP3 file uses less space than other music file formats, and the process for creating an MP3

●

disc is the same as the process for creating a data file. MP3 files can be played only on MP3 players
or on computers with MP3 software installed.

Do not move the computer while it is writing to a BD.

●

To burn a CD, DVD, or BD, follow these steps:

1. Download or copy the source files into a folder on your hard drive.

2. Insert a blank disc into the optical drive.

3. Select Start > All Programs and the name of the software you want to use.

4. Select the kind of disc you want to create—data, audio, or video.

5. Right-click Start, click Open Windows Explorer, and then navigate to the folder where the source

files are stored.

6. Open the folder, and then drag the files to the drive that contains the blank disc.

7. Initiate the burning process as directed by the program you have selected.

For specific instructions, refer to the software manufacturer's instructions. These instructions may be
provided with the software, on disc, or on the manufacturer's Web site.

Removing an optical disc (CD, DVD, or BD)

1. Press the release button (1) on the drive bezel to release the disc tray, and then gently pull out the

tray (2) until it stops.

Optical drive (select models only) 51

2. Remove the disc (3) from the tray by gently pressing down on the spindle while lifting the outer

edges of the disc. Hold the disc by the edges and avoid touching the flat surfaces.

NOTE: If the tray is not fully accessible, tilt the disc carefully as you remove it.

3. Close the disc tray and place the disc in a protective case.

Troubleshooting

The following sections describe several common issues and resolutions.

The optical disc tray does not open for removal of a CD, DVD, or BD

1. Insert the end of a paper clip (1) into the release access in the front bezel of the drive.

2. Press in gently on the paper clip until the disc tray is released, and then pull out the tray (2) until it

stops.

52 Chapter 4 Multimedia

3. Remove the disc (3) from the tray by gently pressing down on the spindle while lifting the outer

edges of the disc. Hold the disc by the edges and avoid touching the flat surfaces.

NOTE: If the tray is not fully accessible, tilt the disc carefully as you remove it.

4. Close the disc tray and place the disc in a protective case.

The computer does not detect the optical drive

If Windows does not detect an attached device, the device driver software may be missing or corrupted.
If you suspect that the DVD/CD-ROM drive is not being detected, verify that the optical drive is listed in
the Device Manager utility.

1. Remove any discs from the optical drive.

2. Select Start > Control Panel > System and Security > Device Manager.

3. In the Device Manager window, click the plus sign (+) next to Disc Drives or DVD/CD-ROM

drives, unless a minus sign (-) is already showing. Look for an optical drive listing.

4. Right-click the optical device listing to perform the following tasks:

Update driver software

●

Disable

●

Uninstall

●

Scan for hardware changes. Windows scans your system for installed hardware and installs

●

any required drivers.

Click Properties to see if the device is working properly.

●

The Properties window provides details about the device to help you troubleshoot issues.

◦

Click the Driver tab to update, disable, or uninstall drivers for this device.

◦

Optical drive (select models only) 53

A disc does not play

Save your work and close all open programs before playing a CD, DVD, or BD.

●

Log off the Internet before playing a CD, DVD, or BD.

●

Be sure that you insert the disc properly.

●

Be sure that the disc is clean. If necessary, clean the disc with filtered water and a lint-free cloth.

●

Wipe from the center of the disc to the outer edge.

Check the disc for scratches. If you find scratches, treat the disc with an optical disc repair kit

●

available at many electronics stores.

Disable Sleep mode before playing the disc.

●

Do not initiate Hibernation or Sleep while playing a disc. Otherwise, you may see a warning
message asking if you want to continue. If this message is displayed, click No. After you click
No, the computer may behave in either of the following ways:

Playback may resume.

◦

– or –

The playback window in the multimedia program may close. To return to playing the disc, click

◦

the Play button in your multimedia program to restart the disc. In rare cases, you may need
to exit the program and then restart it.

Increase system resources:

●

Turn off external devices such as printers and scanners. Disconnecting these devices frees up
valuable system resources and results in better playback performance.

Change desktop color properties. Because the human eye cannot easily tell the difference between
colors beyond 16 bits, you should not notice any loss of color while watching a movie if you lower system
color properties to 16-bit color, as follows:

1. Right-click on a blank area of the computer desktop, and then select Screen resolution.

2. Select Advanced Settings > Monitor tab.

3. Click High Color (16 bit), if this setting is not already selected.

4. Click OK.

A disc does not play automatically

1. Select Start > Default Programs > Change AutoPlay settings.

2. Confirm that the Use AutoPlay for all media and devices check box is selected.

3. Click Save.

A CD, DVD, or BD should now start automatically when it is inserted into the optical drive.

54 Chapter 4 Multimedia

A movie stops, skips, or plays erratically

Clean the disc.

●

Conserve system resources by trying the following suggestions:

●

Log off the Internet.

◦

Change the color properties of the desktop:

◦

1. Right-click on a blank area of the computer desktop, and select Screen resolution.

2. Select Advanced Settings > Monitor tab.

3. Click High Color (16 bit), if this setting is not already selected.

4. Click OK.

Disconnect external devices, such as a printer, scanner, camera, or handheld device.

◦

A movie is not visible on an external display

1. If both the computer display and an external display are turned on, press fn+f4 one or more times

to switch between the 2 displays.

2. Configure the monitor settings to make the external display primary:

a. Right-click on a blank area of the computer desktop, and select Personalize > Display.

b. Specify a primary display and a secondary display.

NOTE: When using both displays, the DVD image will not appear on any display designated as

the secondary display.

To get information about a multimedia question not covered in this guide, select Start > Help and

Support.

The process of burning a disc does not begin, or it stops before completion

Be sure that all other programs are closed.

●

Turn off Sleep mode and Hibernation.

●

Be sure that you are using the right kind of disc for your drive. See your user guides for more

●

information about disc types.

Be sure that the disc is inserted properly.

●

Select a slower write speed and try again.

●

If you are copying a disc, save the information on the source disc to your hard drive before trying

●

to burn the contents to a new disc, and then burn from your hard drive.

Reinstall the disc-burning device driver located in the DVD/CD-ROM drives category in Device

●

Manager.

Optical drive (select models only) 55

A device driver must be reinstalled

1. Remove any discs from the optical drive.

2. Select Start > Control Panel > System and Security > Device Manager.

3. In the Device Manager window, click the plus sign (+) next to the type of driver you want to uninstall

and reinstall (for example, DVD/CD-ROMs, Modems, and so on), unless a minus sign (-) is already
showing.

4. Right-click the device listing and click Uninstall. When prompted, confirm that you want to delete

the device, but do not restart the computer. Repeat for any other drivers you want to delete.

5. In the Device Manager window, click Action, and then click Scan for hardware changes.

Windows scans your system for installed hardware and installs default drivers for anything requiring
drivers.

NOTE: If you are prompted to restart the computer, save all open files, and then continue with

the restart.

6. Reopen Device Manager, if necessary, and then verify that the drivers are once again listed.

7. Try to use your device.

If uninstalling and reinstalling the device drivers does not correct the problem, you may need to update
your drivers using the procedures in the following section.

Obtaining the latest HP device drivers

To use the HP Web site to obtain HP device drivers:

1. Open your Web browser, go to

2. Click the option for software and driver downloads, and then type your computer model number in

the product box.

3. Press enter, and then follow the on-screen instructions.

Obtaining Microsoft device drivers

You can obtain the latest Windows device drivers by using Windows Update. This feature can be set to
automatically check for and install updates for your hardware drivers, as well as for the Windows
operating system and other Microsoft products.

To use Windows Update:

1. Select Start > All Programs > Windows Update.

NOTE: If you have not previously set up Windows Update, you will be prompted to enter settings

before you can check for updates.

2. Click Check for updates.

3. Follow the on-screen instructions.

http://www.hp.com/support, and select your country or region.

56 Chapter 4 Multimedia

Webcam (select models only)

Your computer may include an integrated webcam, located at the top of the display. With the preinstalled
software, you can use the webcam to record audio and video and capture still photographs. You can
preview the photo, video recording, or audio recording, and save it on your computer hard drive.

To access the webcam and HP Webcam software, select Start > All Programs > HP > HP Webcam.

The webcam software enables you to experiment with the following features:

Video—Record and play back webcam video.

●

Audio—Record and play back audio.

●

Streaming video—Use with instant message software solutions that support UVC (Universal Video

●

Class) cameras.

Snapshots—Take still photos.

●

Business Card Reader—Use to transform business cards into a usable database of contact

●

information.

NOTE: For information about using software designed for use with the integrated webcam, refer to

the webcam software Help.

For optimum performance, observe the following guidelines while using the integrated webcam:

Be sure that you have the latest version of an instant message program before attempting a video

●

conversation.

The webcam may not work properly across some network firewalls.

●

NOTE: If you are having trouble viewing or sending multimedia files to someone on another LAN

or outside your network firewall, temporarily disable the firewall, perform the task you want to
perform, and then reenable the firewall. To permanently resolve the problem, reconfigure the
firewall as necessary, and adjust the policies and settings of other intrusion detection systems. For
additional information, contact your network administrator or IT department.

Whenever possible, place bright light sources behind the webcam and out of the picture area.

●

Adjusting webcam properties

You can adjust webcam properties using the Properties dialog box, which is accessible from various
programs that use the integrated webcam, usually from a configuration, settings, or properties menu:

Brightness—Controls the amount of light that is incorporated into the image. A higher brightness

●

setting creates a brighter image; a lower brightness setting creates a darker image.

Contrast—Controls the difference between lighter and darker areas on the image. A higher

●

contrast setting intensifies the image; a lower contrast setting maintains more of the original
information’s dynamic range but leads to a flatter image.

Gamma—Controls the contrast affecting the mid-level grays or midtones of an image. Adjusting

●

the gamma of an image allows you to change the brightness values of the middle range of gray
tones without dramatically altering the shadows and highlights. A lower gamma setting makes
grays look black, and makes dark colors even darker.

Webcam (select models only) 57

Hue—Controls the aspect of color that distinguishes it from another color (what makes a color red,

●

green, or blue). Hue is distinct from saturation, which measures the intensity of the hue.

Saturation—Controls the strength of color in the final image. A higher saturation setting creates a

●

bolder image; a lower saturation setting creates a more subtle image.

Sharpness—Controls the definition of edges in an image. A higher sharpness setting creates a

●

more defined image; a lower sharpness setting creates a softer image.

For information about using the webcam, select Start > Help and Support.

Capturing business card images

You can use the webcam with the HP Business Card Reader program to capture business card images
and export the text to many types of address book software, such as Microsoft® Outlook Contacts.

To capture a business card image:

1. Open HP Business Card Reader by selecting Start > All Programs > HP > HP Business Card

Reader.

2. To capture one business card, click Single Scan.

– or –

To capture multiple business cards, click Multi Scan.

3. Insert a business card into the business card slot on the front of the computer (1), and slide the

card to the left (2) to center it under the webcam.

NOTE: If any text is obscured by the slot, rotate the card 180 degrees, with the text facing the

webcam.

58 Chapter 4 Multimedia

4. Slowly lower the display (1) until the webcam light (2) blinks and you hear a sound, which indicates

that the webcam is now in focus.

The webcam turns on, and the scanning process starts immediately. You will hear a camera shutter
sound when the image is captured, and the information from the card is filled in the fields
automatically.

5. If you are capturing multiple business card images, remove the business card and insert another

one. The webcam light turns on when the card is in focus. The webcam then captures the business
card image and the webcam light turns off.

Repeat this step for additional business cards.

NOTE: Do not move or raise the display until you have finished capturing all of the business

cards.

6. When you have finished capturing one or more business card images, remove the business card

from the slot and raise the display.

7. Review the information captured by Business Card Reader to be sure that it is complete.

For more information on using Business Card Reader, refer to the software Help.

Webcam (select models only) 59

5 Power management

Setting power options

Using power-saving states

The computer has two power-saving states enabled at the factory: Sleep and Hibernation.

When Sleep is initiated, the power light blinks and the screen clears. Your work is saved to memory,
letting you exit Sleep faster than exiting Hibernation. If the computer is in the Sleep state for an extended
period or if the battery reaches a critical battery level while in the Sleep state, the computer initiates
Hibernation.

When Hibernation is initiated, your work is saved to a hibernation file on the hard drive and the computer
turns off.

CAUTION: To prevent possible audio and video degradation, loss of audio or video playback

functionality, or loss of information, do not initiate Sleep or Hibernation while reading from or writing to
a disc or an external media card.

NOTE: You cannot initiate any type of networking connection or perform any computer functions while

the computer is in the Sleep state or in Hibernation.

NOTE: When HP 3D DriveGuard has parked a drive, the computer will not initiate Sleep or Hibernation,

and the display will be turned off.

Initiating and exiting Sleep

The system is set at the factory to initiate Sleep after 15 minutes of inactivity when running on battery
power and 30 minutes of inactivity when running on external power.

Power settings and timeouts can be changed using Power Options in Windows® Control Panel.

With the computer on, you can initiate Sleep in any of the following ways:

Close the display.

●

Press fn+f3.

●

Click Start, click the arrow next to the Shut down button, and then click Sleep.

●

To exit Sleep:

Briefly press the power button.

▲

When the computer exits Sleep, the power lights turn on and your work returns to the screen where
you stopped working.

60 Chapter 5 Power management

NOTE: If you have set a password to be required when the computer exits Sleep, you must enter your

Windows password before your work will return to the screen.

Initiating and exiting Hibernation

The system is set at the factory to initiate Hibernation after 1,080 minutes (18 hours) of inactivity when
running on battery power, 1,080 minutes (18 hours) of inactivity when running on external power, or
when the battery reaches a critical battery level.

Power settings and timeouts can be changed using Power Options in Windows Control Panel.

To initiate Hibernation:

1. Click Start, and then click the arrow next to the Shut down button.

2. Click Hibernate.

To exit Hibernation:

Press the power button.

▲

The power lights turn on and your work returns to the screen where you stopped working.

NOTE: If you have set a password to be required when the computer exits Hibernation, you must enter

your Windows password before your work will return to the screen.

Using the battery meter

The battery meter is located in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar. The battery meter
allows you to quickly access power settings, view remaining battery charge, and select a different power
plan.

To display the percentage of remaining battery charge and the current power plan, move the pointer

●

over the battery meter icon.

To access Power Options, or to change the power plan, click the battery meter icon and select an

●

item from the list.

Different battery meter icons indicate whether the computer is running on battery or external power. The
icon also displays a message if the battery has reached a low battery level, critical battery level, or
reserve battery level.

To hide or display the battery meter icon:

1. Right-click the Show hidden icons icon (the arrow at the left side of the notification area).

2. Click Customize notification icons.

3. Under Behaviors, select Show icon and notifications for the Power icon.

4. Click OK.

Using power plans

A power plan is a collection of system settings that manages how the computer uses power. Power
plans can help you conserve power or maximize performance.

You can change power plan settings or create your own power plan.

Setting power options 61

Viewing the current power plan

Click the battery meter icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar.

▲

– or –

Select Start > Control Panel > System and Security > Power Options.

Selecting a different power plan

Click the battery meter icon in the notification area, and then select a power plan from the list.

▲

– or –

Select Start > Control Panel > System and Security > Power Options, and then select a power
plan from the list.

Customizing power plans

1. Click the battery meter icon in the notification area, and then click More power options.

– or –

Select Start > Control Panel > System and Security > Power Options.

2. Select a power plan, and then click Change plan settings.

3. Change the settings as needed.

4. To change additional settings, click Change advanced power settings and make your changes.

Setting password protection on wakeup

To set the computer to prompt for a password when the computer exits Sleep or Hibernation, follow
these steps:

1. Select Start > Control Panel > System and Security > Power Options.

2. In the left pane, click Require a password on wakeup.

3. Click Change Settings that are currently unavailable.

4. Click Require a password (recommended).

NOTE: If you need to create a user account password or change your current user account

password, click Create or change your user account password, and then follow the on-screen
instructions. If not, go to step 5.

5. Click Save changes.

62 Chapter 5 Power management

Using Power Assistant (select models only)

Power Assistant allows you to configure system settings to optimize your computer's power consumption
and battery charge. Power Assistant provides tools and information to help you make informed decisions
on power management:

Power consumption predictions in hypothetical system configurations

●

Predefined power profiles

●

Usage details and graphs showing power consumption trends over time

●

Starting Power Assistant

To start Power Assistant when Windows is running, select Start > All Programs > HP > HP Power
Assistant.

Power Assistant opens, and the following tabs are displayed:

Settings—Displays the opening page, which shows battery charge and power consumption

●

information.

Preferences—Enables you to set device preferences.

●

Usage Details—Enables you to enter information about computer use.

●

Charts—Displays charts and graphs of power consumption.

●

About—Displays Power Assistant Help and version information.

●

For more information about using, configuring, and managing Power Assistant, refer to the Power
Assistant software Help.

Using external AC power

External AC power is supplied through one of the following devices:

WARNING! To reduce potential safety issues, use only the AC adapter provided with the computer,

a replacement AC adapter provided by HP, or a compatible AC adapter purchased from HP.

Approved AC adapter

●

Optional docking device

●

Connect the computer to external AC power under any of the following conditions:

WARNING! Do not charge the computer battery while you are onboard aircraft.

When you are charging or calibrating a battery

●

When you are installing or modifying system software

●

When you are writing information to a CD or DVD

●

When you connect the computer to external AC power, the following events occur:

The battery begins to charge.

●

If the computer is turned on, the battery meter icon in the notification area changes appearance.

●

Using Power Assistant (select models only) 63

When you disconnect external AC power, the following events occur:

The computer switches to battery power.

●

The display brightness is automatically decreased to save battery life. To increase display

●

brightness, press the fn+f10 hotkey or reconnect the AC adapter.

Connecting the AC adapter

WARNING! To reduce the risk of electric shock or damage to the equipment:

Plug the power cord into an AC outlet that is easily accessible at all times.

Disconnect power from the computer by unplugging the power cord from the AC outlet (not by
unplugging the power cord from the computer).

If provided with a 3-pin attachment plug on the power cord, plug the cord into a grounded (earthed) 3­pin outlet. Do not disable the power cord grounding pin, for example, by attaching a 2-pin adapter. The
grounding pin is an important safety feature.

To connect the computer to external AC power, follow these steps:

1. Plug the AC adapter into the power connector (1) on the computer.

2. Plug the power cord into the AC adapter (2).

3. Plug the other end of the power cord into an AC outlet (3).

Using battery power

When a charged battery is in the computer and the computer is not plugged into external power, the
computer runs on battery power. When the computer is plugged into external AC power, the computer
runs on AC power.

If the computer contains a charged battery and is running on external AC power supplied through the
AC adapter, the computer switches to battery power if the AC adapter is disconnected from the
computer.

NOTE: The display brightness is decreased to save battery life when you disconnect AC power. To

increase display brightness, use the fn+f10 hotkey or reconnect the AC adapter.

64 Chapter 5 Power management

You can keep a battery in the computer or in storage, depending on how you work. Keeping the battery
in the computer whenever the computer is plugged into AC power charges the battery and also protects
your work in case of a power outage. However, a battery in the computer slowly discharges when the
computer is off and unplugged from external power.

WARNING! To reduce potential safety issues, use only the battery provided with the computer, a

replacement battery provided by HP, or a compatible battery purchased from HP.

Computer battery life varies, depending on power management settings, programs running on the
computer, display brightness, external devices connected to the computer, and other factors.

Finding battery information in Help and Support

Help and Support provides the following tools and information about the battery:

Battery Check tool to test battery performance

●

Information on calibration, power management, and proper care and storage to maximize battery

●

life

Information on battery types, specifications, life cycles, and capacity

●

To access battery information:

Select Start > Help and Support > Learn > Power Plans: Frequently Asked Questions.

▲

Using Battery Check

Help and Support provides information on the status of the battery installed in the computer.

To run Battery Check:

1. Connect the AC adapter to the computer.

NOTE: The computer must be connected to external power for Battery Check to function properly.

2. Select Start > Help and Support > Troubleshoot > Power, Thermal and Mechanical.

3. Click the Power tab, and then click Battery Check.

Battery Check examines the battery and its cells to see if they are functioning properly, and then reports
the results of the examination.

Displaying the remaining battery charge

Move the pointer over the battery meter icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar.

Inserting or removing the battery

CAUTION: Removing a battery that is the sole power source can cause loss of information. To prevent

loss of information, save your work and initiate Hibernation or shut down the computer through Windows
before removing the battery.

To insert the battery:

1. Turn the computer upside down on a flat surface.

Using battery power 65

2. Insert the battery (1) into the battery bay until it is seated.

The battery release latch (2) automatically locks the battery into place.

To remove the battery:

1. Turn the computer upside down on a flat surface.

2. Slide the battery release latch (1) to release the battery.

3. Remove the battery from the computer (2).

Charging a battery

WARNING! Do not charge the computer battery while you are onboard aircraft.

The battery charges whenever the computer is plugged into external power through an AC adapter, an
optional power adapter, or an optional docking device.

66 Chapter 5 Power management

The battery charges whether the computer is off or in use, but it charges faster when the computer is
off.

Charging may take longer if a battery is new, has been unused for 2 weeks or more, or is much warmer
or cooler than room temperature.

To prolong battery life and optimize the accuracy of battery charge displays, follow these
recommendations:

If you are charging a new battery, charge it fully before turning on the computer.

●

Charge the battery until the battery light turns off.

●

NOTE: If the computer is on while the battery is charging, the battery meter in the notification

area may show 100 percent charge before the battery is fully charged.

Allow the battery to discharge below 5 percent of a full charge through normal use before charging

●

it.

If the battery has been unused for one month or more, calibrate the battery instead of simply

●

charging it.

The battery light displays charge status:

Amber: The battery is charging.

●

Turquoise: A battery is close to full charge capacity.

●

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: If the computer is plugged into an external power source, the light turns off when all batteries

●

in the computer are fully charged. If the computer is not plugged into an external power source,
the light stays off until the battery reaches a low battery level.

Maximizing battery discharge time

Battery discharge time varies, depending on the features you use while on battery power. Maximum
discharge time gradually shortens as the battery storage capacity naturally degrades.

Tips for maximizing battery discharge time:

Lower the brightness on the display.

●

Check the Power saver setting in Power Options.

●

Remove the battery from the computer when it is not being used or charged.

●

Store the battery in a cool, dry location.

●

Managing low battery levels

The information in this section describes the alerts and system responses set at the factory. Some low­battery alerts and system responses can be changed using Power Options in Windows Control Panel
(Start > System and Security > Power Options). Preferences set using Power Options do not affect
lights.

Using battery power 67

Identifying low battery levels

When a battery that is the sole power source for the computer reaches a low battery level, the battery
light blinks.

If a low battery level is not resolved, the computer enters a critical battery level, and the battery light
blinks rapidly.

The computer takes the following actions for a critical battery level:

If Hibernation is enabled and the computer is on or in the Sleep state, the computer initiates

●

Hibernation.

If Hibernation is disabled and the computer is on or in the Sleep state, the computer remains briefly

●

in the Sleep state, and then shuts down and loses any unsaved information.

Resolving a low battery level

CAUTION: To reduce the risk of losing information when the computer reaches a critical battery level

and has initiated Hibernation, do not restore power until the power lights turn off.

Resolving a low battery level when external power is available

Connect one of the following devices:

▲

AC adapter

●

Optional expansion product or docking device

●

Optional power adapter

●

Resolving a low battery level when a charged battery is available

1. Turn off the computer or initiate Hibernation.

2. Remove the discharged battery, and then insert a charged battery.

3. Turn on the computer.

Resolving a low battery level when no power source is available

Initiate Hibernation.

▲

– or –

Save your work and shut down the computer.

Resolving a low battery level when the computer cannot exit Hibernation

When the computer lacks sufficient power to exit Hibernation, follow these steps:

1. Insert a charged battery or plug the computer into external power.

2. Exit Hibernation by briefly pressing the power button.

68 Chapter 5 Power management

Calibrating a battery

Calibrate a battery under the following conditions:

When battery charge displays seem inaccurate

●

When you observe a significant change in battery run time

●

Even if a battery is heavily used, it should not need to be calibrated more than once a month. It is also
not necessary to calibrate a new battery.

Step 1: Fully charge the battery

WARNING! Do not charge the computer battery while you are onboard aircraft.

NOTE: The battery charges whether the computer is off or in use, but it charges faster when the

computer is off.

To fully charge the battery:

1. Insert the battery into the computer.

2. Connect the computer to an AC adapter, optional power adapter, optional expansion product, or

optional docking device, and then plug the adapter or device into external power.

The battery light on the computer turns on.

3. Leave the computer plugged into external power until the battery is fully charged.

The battery light on the computer turns off.

Step 2: Disable Hibernation and Sleep

1. Click the battery meter icon in the notification area, and then click More power options.

– or –

Select Start > Control Panel > System and Security > Power Options.

2. Under the current power plan, click Change plan settings.

3. Record the Turn off the display and Put the computer to sleep settings listed in the On

battery column so that you can reset them after the calibration.

4. Change the Turn off the display and Put the computer to sleep settings to Never.

5. Click Change advanced power settings.

6. Click the plus sign next to Sleep, and then click the plus sign next to Hibernate after.

7. Record the On battery setting under Hibernate after so that you can reset it after the calibration.

8. Change the On battery setting to Never.

9. Click OK.

10. Click Save changes.

Using battery power 69

Step 3: Discharge the battery

The computer must remain on while the battery is being discharged. The battery can discharge whether
or not you are using the computer, but the battery will discharge faster while you are using it.

If you plan to leave the computer unattended during the discharge, save your information before

●

beginning the discharge procedure.

If you use the computer occasionally during the discharge procedure and have set energy-saving

●

timeouts, expect the following performance from the system during the discharge process:

The monitor will not turn off automatically.

◦

Hard drive speed will not decrease automatically when the computer is idle.

◦

System-initiated Hibernation will not occur.

◦

To discharge a battery:

1. Unplug the computer from its external power source, but do not turn off the computer.

2. Run the computer on battery power until the battery is discharged. The battery light begins to blink

when the battery has discharged to a low battery level. When the battery is discharged, the battery
light turns off and the computer shuts down.

Step 4: Fully recharge the battery

To recharge the battery:

1. Plug the computer into external power and maintain external power until the battery is fully

recharged. When the battery is recharged, the battery light on the computer turns off.

You can use the computer while the battery is recharging, but the battery will charge faster if the
computer is off.

2. If the computer is off, turn it on when the battery is fully charged and the battery light has turned

off.

Step 5: Reenable Hibernation and Sleep

CAUTION: Failure to reenable Hibernation after calibration may result in a full battery discharge and

information loss if the computer reaches a critical battery level.

1. Click the battery meter icon in the notification area, and then click More power options.

– or –

Select Start > Control Panel > System and Security > Power Options.

2. Under the current power plan, click Change plan settings.

3. Reenter the settings that you recorded for the items in the On battery column.

– or –

Click Restore default settings for this plan, and then follow the on-screen instructions.

NOTE: If you restore default settings, omit steps 4 through 8.

4. Click Change advanced power settings.

70 Chapter 5 Power management

5. Click the plus sign next to Sleep, and then click the plus sign next to Hibernate after.

6. Reenter the setting that you recorded for On battery.

7. Click OK.

8. Click Save changes.

Conserving battery power

Select the Power saver power plan through Power Options under System and Security in

●

Windows Control Panel.

Turn off wireless and local area network (LAN) connections and exit modem applications when you

●

are not using them.

Disconnect external devices that are not plugged into an external power source, when you are not

●

using them.

Stop, disable, or remove any external media cards that you are not using.

●

Use the fn+9 and fn+10 hotkeys to adjust screen brightness as needed.

●

If you leave your work, initiate Sleep or Hibernation, or shut down the computer.

●

Storing a battery

CAUTION: To prevent damage to a battery, do not expose it to high temperatures for extended periods

of time.

If a computer will be unused and unplugged from external power for more than 2 weeks, remove the
battery and store it separately.

To prolong the charge of a stored battery, place it in a cool, dry place.

NOTE: A stored battery should be checked every 6 months. If the capacity is less than 50 percent,

recharge the battery before returning it to storage.

Calibrate a battery before using it if it has been stored for one month or more.

Disposing of a used battery

WARNING! To reduce the risk of fire or burns, do not disassemble, crush, or puncture; do not short

external contacts; do not dispose of in fire or water.

Refer to the Regulatory, Safety and Environmental Notices for battery disposal information.

Replacing the battery

Computer battery life varies, depending on the power management settings, programs running on the
computer, display brightness, external devices connected to the computer, and other factors.

Battery Check notifies you to replace the battery when an internal cell is not charging properly, or when
the battery storage capacity has reached a “weak” condition. A message refers you to the HP Web site
for more information about ordering a replacement battery. If the battery is possibly covered by an HP
warranty, instructions include a warranty ID.

Using battery power 71

NOTE: To ensure that you always have battery power when you need it, HP recommends purchasing

a new battery when the storage capacity indicator turns green-yellow.

72 Chapter 5 Power management

Testing an AC adapter

Test the AC adapter if the computer exhibits any of the following symptoms:

The computer will not turn on when connected to the AC adapter.

●

The display does not turn on when the computer is connected to the AC adapter and external

●

power.

The power light is off when the computer is connected to the AC adapter.

●

To test the AC adapter:

1. Remove the battery from the computer.

2. Connect the AC adapter to the computer and to an AC outlet.

3. Turn on the computer.

If the power light turns on, the AC adapter is functioning properly.

●

If the power light remains off, the AC adapter is not functioning and should be replaced.

●

Contact technical support for information on obtaining a replacement AC power adapter. Select

Start > Help and Support > Get assistance.

Shutting down the computer

CAUTION: Unsaved information will be lost when the computer is shut down.

The Shut down command closes all open programs, including the operating system, and then turns off
the display and computer.

Shut down the computer under any of the following conditions:

When you need to replace the battery or access components inside the computer

●

When you are connecting an external hardware device that does not connect to a USB port

●

When the computer will be unused and disconnected from external power for an extended period

●

Although you can shut down the computer with the power button, the recommended procedure is to use
the Windows Shut down command.

To shut down the computer, follow these steps:

NOTE: If the computer is in the Sleep state or in Hibernation, you must first exit Sleep or Hibernation

before shutdown is possible.

1. Save your work and close all open programs.

2. Click Start.

3. Click Shut down.

Testing an AC adapter 73

If the computer is unresponsive and you are unable to use the preceding shutdown procedures, try the
following emergency procedures in the sequence provided:

Press and hold the power button for at least 5 seconds.

●

Disconnect the computer from external power and remove the battery.

●

74 Chapter 5 Power management

6 Drives

Identifying installed drives

Your computer includes a hard drive (with a rotating disc) or a solid-state drive (SSD) with solid-state
memory. Because it has no moving parts, an SSD does not generate as much heat as a hard drive.

To view the drives installed on the computer, select Start > 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 applications, running
utilities, or changing Windows settings. Refer to Help and Support for more information.

Handling drives

Drives are fragile computer components that must be handled with care. Refer to the following cautions
before handling drives. Additional cautions are included with the procedures to which they apply.

Identifying installed drives 75

CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to the computer, damage to a drive, or loss of information,

observe these precautions:

Before you move a computer that is connected to an external hard drive, initiate Sleep and allow the
screen to clear, or properly disconnect the external hard drive.

Before handling a drive, discharge static electricity by touching the unpainted metal surface of the drive.

Do not touch the connector pins on a removable drive or on the computer.

Handle a drive carefully; do not drop a drive or place items on it.

Before removing or inserting a drive, shut down the computer. If you are unsure whether the computer
is off, in the Sleep state, or in Hibernation, turn the computer on and then shut it down through the
operating system.

Do not use excessive force when inserting a drive into a drive bay.

Do not type on the keyboard or move the computer while an optional optical drive is writing to a disc.
The write process is sensitive to vibration.

When the battery is the only source of power, be sure that the battery is sufficiently charged before
writing to media.

Avoid exposing a drive to temperature or humidity extremes.

Avoid exposing a drive to liquids. Do not spray the drive with cleaning products.

Remove media from a drive before removing the drive from the drive bay, or traveling with, shipping, or
storing a drive.

If a drive must be mailed, place the drive in a bubble-pack mailer or other suitable protective packaging
and label the package “FRAGILE.”

Avoid exposing a drive to magnetic fields. Security devices with magnetic fields include airport walk­through devices and security wands. The airport security devices that check carry-on luggage, such as
conveyor belts, use X-rays instead of magnetism and will not damage a drive.

76 Chapter 6 Drives

Improving hard drive performance

Using Disk Defragmenter

As you use the computer, files on the hard drive become fragmented. Disk Defragmenter consolidates
the fragmented files and folders on the hard drive so that the system can run more efficiently.

After you start Disk Defragmenter, it works without supervision. Depending on the size of your hard drive
and the number of fragmented files, Disk Defragmenter may take more than an hour to complete. You
may want to set it to run during the night or another time when you do not need access to your computer.

HP recommends defragmenting your hard drive at least once a month. You may set Disk Defragmenter
to run on a monthly schedule, but you can defragment your computer manually at any time.

NOTE: It is not necessary to run Disk Defragmenter on solid-state drives.

To run Disk Defragmenter:

1. Select Start > All Programs > Accessories > System Tools > Disk Defragmenter.

2. Click Defragment disk.

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.

For additional information, access the Disk Defragmenter software Help.

Using Disk Cleanup

Disk Cleanup searches the hard drive for unnecessary files that you can safely delete to free up disk
space and help the computer to run more efficiently.

To run Disk Cleanup:

1. Select Start > All Programs > Accessories > System Tools > Disk Cleanup.

2. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Improving hard drive performance 77

Using HP 3D DriveGuard

HP 3D DriveGuard protects the hard drive by parking the drive and halting I/O requests under either of
the following conditions:

You drop the computer.

●

You move the computer with the display closed while the computer is running on battery power.

●

A short time after the end of one of these events, HP 3D DriveGuard returns the hard drive to normal
operation.

NOTE: Solid-state drives lack rotating parts, so protection by HP 3D DriveGuard is unnecessary.

NOTE: If the upgrade bay contains a hard drive, the hard drive is protected by HP 3D DriveGuard.

Hard drives installed in optional docking devices or connected to USB ports are not protected by HP 3D
DriveGuard.

For more information, refer to the HP 3D DriveGuard software Help.

Identifying HP 3D DriveGuard status

The drive light on the computer changes to an amber color to show that the drive is parked. To determine
whether drives are currently protected or whether a drive is parked, select Start > Control Panel >
Hardware and Sound > Windows Mobility Center:

If the software is enabled, a green check mark is superimposed over the hard drive icon.

●

If the software is disabled, a red X is superimposed over the hard drive icon.

●

If the drives are parked, a yellow moon is superimposed over the hard drive icon.

●

NOTE: The icon in the Mobility Center may not show the most up-to-date status for the drive. For

immediate updates after a change in status, you need to enable the notification area icon.

To enable the notification area icon:

1. Select Start > Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > HP 3D DriveGuard.

NOTE: If prompted by User Account Control, click Yes.

2. On the Icon in system tray row, click Show.

3. Click OK.

If HP 3D DriveGuard has parked the drive, the computer will behave in the following ways:

The computer will not shut down.

●

The computer will not initiate Sleep or Hibernation, except as described in the following Note.

●

NOTE: If the computer is running on battery power and reaches a critical battery level, HP 3D

DriveGuard allows the computer to initiate Hibernation.

Before you move the computer, HP recommends that you either shut it down or initiate Sleep or
Hibernation.

78 Chapter 6 Drives

Using HP 3D DriveGuard software

The HP 3D DriveGuard software enables you to perform the following tasks:

Enable and disable HP 3D DriveGuard.

●

NOTE: Permission to enable or disable HP 3D DriveGuard is dependent on certain user

privileges. Members of an Administrator group can change privileges for non-Administrator users.

Determine whether a drive in the system is supported.

●

To open the software and change settings, follow these steps:

1. In Mobility Center, click the hard drive icon to open the HP 3D DriveGuard window.

– or –

Select Start > Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > HP 3D DriveGuard.

NOTE: If prompted by User Account Control, click Yes.

2. Click the appropriate button to change settings.

3. Click OK.

Using HP 3D DriveGuard 79

Replacing a hard drive in the hard drive bay

CAUTION: To prevent information loss or an unresponsive system:

Shut down the computer before removing the hard drive from the hard drive bay. Do not remove the
hard drive while the computer is on, in the Sleep state, or in Hibernation.

If you are not sure whether the computer is off or in Hibernation, turn the computer on by briefly pressing
the power button. Then shut down the computer through the operating system.

To remove a hard drive:

1. Save your work.

2. Shut down the computer and close the display.

3. Disconnect all external hardware devices connected to the computer.

4. Unplug the power cord from the AC outlet.

5. Turn the computer upside down on a flat surface.

6. Remove the battery from the computer.

7. Loosen the 2 hard drive cover screws (1).

8. Remove the hard drive cover (2).

9. Loosen the hard drive screw (1).

10. Pull the hard drive tab to the right (2) to disconnect the hard drive.

80 Chapter 6 Drives

11. Lift the hard drive (3) out of the hard drive bay.

To install a hard drive:

1. Insert the hard drive into the hard drive bay (1).

2. Pull the hard drive tab (2) to the left to connect the hard drive.

3. Tighten the hard drive screw (3).

4. Align the tabs (1) on the hard drive cover with the notches on the computer.

5. Replace the cover (2).

Replacing a hard drive in the hard drive bay 81

6. Tighten the hard drive cover screws (3).

7. Replace the battery.

8. Turn the computer right-side up, and then reconnect external power and external devices.

9. Turn on the computer.

82 Chapter 6 Drives

Replacing a drive in the upgrade bay

The upgrade bay can hold either a hard drive or an optical drive.

Removing the protective insert

The upgrade bay may contain a protective insert. You must remove the insert before inserting a drive
into the upgrade bay. To remove the insert:

1. Save your work.

2. Shut down the computer and close the display.

3. Disconnect all external hardware devices connected to the computer.

4. Unplug the power cord from the AC outlet.

5. Turn the computer upside down on a flat surface.

6. Loosen the upgrade bay screw (1).

7. Using a flat-bladed screwdriver, gently push the tab to release the optical drive (2).

8. Remove the protective insert (3) from the upgrade bay.

Replacing a hard drive

CAUTION: To prevent information loss or an unresponsive system:

Shut down the computer before removing the hard drive from the upgrade bay. Do not remove the hard
drive while the computer is on, in the Sleep state, or in Hibernation.

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.

Replacing a drive in the upgrade bay 83

To remove a hard drive from the upgrade bay:

1. Save your work.

2. Shut down the computer and close the display.

3. Disconnect all external hardware devices connected to the computer.

4. Unplug the power cord from the AC outlet.

5. Turn the computer upside down on a flat surface.

6. Remove the battery from the computer.

7. Remove the protective screw caps (1), and then remove the 4 hard drive screws (2).

8. Loosen the upgrade bay screw (1).

9. Using a flat-bladed screwdriver, gently push the tab to release the hard drive (2).

84 Chapter 6 Drives

10. Remove the hard drive from the upgrade bay.

To install a hard drive in the upgrade bay:

1. Insert the hard drive into the upgrade bay.

Replacing a drive in the upgrade bay 85

2. Tighten the upgrade bay screw.

3. Replace the 4 hard drive screws (1), and then replace the protective screw caps (2).

4. Replace the battery.

5. Turn the computer right-side up, and then reconnect external power and external devices.

6. Turn on the computer.

Replacing an optical drive

CAUTION: To prevent information loss or an unresponsive system:

Shut down the computer before removing the optical drive from the upgrade bay. Do not remove the
optical drive while the computer is on, in the Sleep state, or in Hibernation.

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.

86 Chapter 6 Drives

To remove an optical drive from the upgrade bay:

1. Save your work.

2. Shut down the computer and close the display.

3. Disconnect all external hardware devices connected to the computer.

4. Unplug the power cord from the AC outlet.

5. Turn the computer upside down on a flat surface.

6. Remove the battery from the computer.

7. Loosen the upgrade bay screw (1).

8. Using a flat-bladed screwdriver, gently push the tab to release the optical drive (2).

9. Remove the optical drive from the upgrade bay.

Replacing a drive in the upgrade bay 87

To install an optical drive in the upgrade bay:

1. Insert the optical drive into the upgrade bay.

2. Tighten the upgrade bay screw.

3. Replace the battery.

4. Turn the computer right-side up, and then reconnect external power and external devices.

5. Turn on the computer.

88 Chapter 6 Drives