HP EliteDesk 800 G3 SFF Maintenance and Service Guide

Maintenance and Service Guide

HP EliteDesk 800 G3 SFF Business PC

© Copyright 2017 HP Development Company,
L.P.

AMD is a trademark of Advanced Micro Devices,
Inc. Bluetooth is a trademark owned by its
proprietor and used by HP Inc. under license.
Intel, Celeron, and Pentium are trademarks of
Intel Corporation in the U.S. and other
countries. Microsoft and Windows are
trademarks of the Microsoft group of
companies.

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

First Edition: January 2017

Document Part Number: 913349-001

Product notices

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

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

In accordance with Microsoft’s support policy,
HP does not support the Windows® 8 or
Windows 7 operating system on products
congured with Intel and AMD 7th generation
and forward processors or provide any
Windows 8 or Windows 7 drivers on

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

Not all features are available in all editions of
Windows. This computer may require upgraded
and/or separately purchased hardware, drivers
and/or software to take full advantage of
Windows functionality. Go to

http://www.microsoft.com for details.

Not all features are available in all editions of
Windows. This computer may require upgraded
and/or separately purchased hardware, drivers
and/or software to take full advantage of
Windows functionality. Go to

http://www.microsoft.com for details.

Software terms

By installing, copying, downloading, or
otherwise using any software product
preinstalled on this computer, you agree to be
bound by the terms of the HP End User License
Agreement (EULA). If you do not accept these
license terms, your sole remedy is to return the
entire unused product (hardware and software)
within 14 days for a full refund subject to the
refund policy of your seller.

For any further information or to request a full
refund of the price of the computer, please
contact your seller.

Safety warning notice

WARNING! To reduce the possibility of heat-related injuries or of overheating the device, do not place

the device directly on your lap or obstruct the device air vents. Use the device only on a hard, at 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 airow. 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 device and the AC adapter comply with the user-accessible
surface temperature limits dened by the International Standard for Safety of Information Technology
Equipment (IEC 60950-1).

iii

iv Safety warning notice

Table of contents

1 Product features ........................................................................................................................................... 1

Standard conguration features ........................................................................................................................... 1

Front panel components ........................................................................................................................................ 2

Rear panel components ......................................................................................................................................... 3

Serial number location .......................................................................................................................................... 4

2 Illustrated parts catalog ................................................................................................................................ 5

Small Form Factor (SFF) chassis spare parts ........................................................................................................ 5

Computer major components ............................................................................................................. 5

Misc parts ............................................................................................................................................. 7

Cables and adapters ............................................................................................................................ 9

Boards, cards, and ports ..................................................................................................................... 9

Drives ................................................................................................................................................. 10

3 Routine care, SATA drive guidelines, and disassembly preparation .................................................................. 12

Electrostatic discharge information .................................................................................................................... 12

Generating static ............................................................................................................................... 12

Preventing electrostatic damage to equipment ............................................................................... 13

Personal grounding methods and equipment .................................................................................. 13

Grounding the work area ................................................................................................................... 13

Recommended materials and equipment ........................................................................................ 14

Operating guidelines ........................................................................................................................................... 14

Routine care ......................................................................................................................................................... 15

General cleaning safety precautions ................................................................................................ 15

Cleaning the Computer Case ............................................................................................................. 15

Cleaning the keyboard ....................................................................................................................... 15

Cleaning the monitor ......................................................................................................................... 16

Cleaning the mouse ........................................................................................................................... 16

Service considerations ......................................................................................................................................... 16

Power supply fan ............................................................................................................................... 16

Tools and software Requirements .................................................................................................... 16

Screws ............................................................................................................................................... 17

Cables and connectors ...................................................................................................................... 17

Hard Drives ........................................................................................................................................ 17

Lithium coin cell battery .................................................................................................................... 17

SATA hard drives .................................................................................................................................................. 18

v

SATA hard drive cables ......................................................................................................................................... 18

SATA data cable ................................................................................................................................. 18

SMART ATA drives ................................................................................................................................................ 18

Cable management .............................................................................................................................................. 19

4 Removal and replacement procedures – small form factor (SFF) chassis .......................................................... 20

Preparation for disassembly ............................................................................................................................... 20

Access panel ......................................................................................................................................................... 21

Front bezel ........................................................................................................................................................... 21

Slim optical drive bezel blank .............................................................................................................................. 22

Front bezel dust lter .......................................................................................................................................... 23

System board connections .................................................................................................................................. 24

Memory ................................................................................................................................................................ 25

Populating DIMM sockets .................................................................................................................. 25

Removing and installing DIMMs ........................................................................................................ 26

Expansion card ..................................................................................................................................................... 28

Drives ................................................................................................................................................................... 32

Drive positions ................................................................................................................................... 32

Installing and Removing Drives ........................................................................................................ 32

Removing a 9.5 mm slim optical drive ........................................................................... 33

Installing a 9.5 mm slim optical drive ............................................................................ 34

Removing a 3.5-inch hard drive ...................................................................................... 35

Installing a 3.5-inch hard drive ....................................................................................... 38

Hard drive cage ............................................................................................................... 41

Removing a 2.5-inch hard drive ...................................................................................... 42

Installing a 2.5-inch hard drive ....................................................................................... 43

Removing and installing an M.2 SSD storage card ......................................................... 44

WLAN module ...................................................................................................................................................... 46

Air duct ................................................................................................................................................................. 47

Power supply ....................................................................................................................................................... 49

Fan sink ................................................................................................................................................................ 51

Processor ............................................................................................................................................................. 53

Antennas .............................................................................................................................................................. 54

Option port board ................................................................................................................................................ 57

Hood lock ............................................................................................................................................................. 58

Hood sensor ......................................................................................................................................................... 59

Card reader ........................................................................................................................................................... 60

Speaker ................................................................................................................................................................ 62

System board ....................................................................................................................................................... 64

System board callouts ....................................................................................................................... 65

Changing from desktop to tower orientation ..................................................................................................... 66

vi

5 Computer Setup (F10) Utility ........................................................................................................................ 67

Computer Setup (F10) Utilities ............................................................................................................................ 67

Using Computer Setup (F10) Utilities ................................................................................................ 67

Computer Setup–Main ....................................................................................................................... 69

Computer Setup—Security ............................................................................................................... 71

Computer Setup—Advanced ............................................................................................................. 73

Computer Setup—UEFI Drivers ......................................................................................................... 78

Recovering the Conguration Settings ............................................................................................................... 78

6 Troubleshooting without diagnostics ............................................................................................................ 79

Safety and comfort .............................................................................................................................................. 79

Before you call for technical support .................................................................................................................. 79

Helpful hints ........................................................................................................................................................ 80

Solving general problems .................................................................................................................................... 81

Solving power problems ...................................................................................................................................... 85

Solving hard drive problems ................................................................................................................................ 86

Solving media card reader problems ................................................................................................................... 88

Solving display problems .................................................................................................................................... 89

Solving audio problems ....................................................................................................................................... 93

Solving printer problems ..................................................................................................................................... 95

Solving keyboard and mouse problems .............................................................................................................. 96

Solving Hardware Installation Problems ............................................................................................................. 98

Solving Network Problems .................................................................................................................................. 99

Solving memory problems ................................................................................................................................ 102

Solving CD-ROM and DVD problems .................................................................................................................. 103

Solving USB ash drive problems ..................................................................................................................... 105

Solving front panel component problems ........................................................................................................ 107

Solving Internet access problems ..................................................................................................................... 107

Solving software problems ............................................................................................................................... 109

7 POST error messages and diagnostic front panel LEDs and audible codes ....................................................... 110

POST numeric codes and text messages .......................................................................................................... 110

Interpreting system validation diagnostic front panel LEDs and audible codes .............................................. 115

8 Password security and resetting CMOS ........................................................................................................ 117

Resetting the password jumper ........................................................................................................................ 117

Clearing and resetting the BIOS ........................................................................................................................ 119

9 Using HP PC Hardware Diagnostics (UEFI) ..................................................................................................... 120

Downloading HP PC Hardware Diagnostics (UEFI) to a USB device .................................................................. 120

vii

10 Backing up, restoring, and recovering ........................................................................................................ 122

Backing up, restoring, and recovering in Windows 10 ...................................................................................... 122

Creating recovery media and backups ............................................................................................ 122

Creating HP Recovery media (select products only) .................................................... 122

Using Windows tools ....................................................................................................................... 123

Restore and recovery ...................................................................................................................... 124

Recovering using HP Recovery Manager ...................................................................... 124

What you need to know before you get started ........................................ 124

Using the HP Recovery partition (select products only) ............................ 125

Using HP Recovery media to recover ......................................................... 125

Changing the computer boot order ............................................................ 126

Removing the HP Recovery partition (select products only) ..................... 127

Backing up, restoring, and recovering in Windows 7 ........................................................................................ 127

Creating recovery media and backups ............................................................................................ 127

Guidelines ..................................................................................................................... 128

Creating recovery media with HP Recovery Disc Creator ............................................. 128

Creating recovery media ............................................................................ 128

Backing up your information ........................................................................................ 128

Performing a system recovery ........................................................................................................ 129

Using the Windows recovery tools ............................................................................... 129

Using f11 recovery tools (select products only) .......................................................... 130

Using Windows 7 operating system media .................................................................. 131

Appendix A Battery replacement ................................................................................................................... 132

Appendix B Power Cord Set Requirements ...................................................................................................... 135

General Requirements ....................................................................................................................................... 135

Japanese Power Cord Requirements ................................................................................................................. 135

Country-Specic Requirements ........................................................................................................................ 136

Appendix C Statement of memory volatility ................................................................................................... 137

Nonvolatile memory usage ............................................................................................................................... 139

Questions and answers ..................................................................................................................................... 141

Using HP Sure Start (select models only) .......................................................................................................... 142

Appendix D Specications ............................................................................................................................. 143

SFF Specications .............................................................................................................................................. 143

Index ........................................................................................................................................................... 144

viii

1 Product features

Standard conguration features

Features may vary depending on the model. For support assistance and to learn more about the hardware
and software installed on your computer model, run the HP Support Assistant utility.

NOTE: This computer model can be used in a tower orientation or a desktop orientation.

Standard conguration features 1

Front panel components

Drive conguration may vary by model. Some models have a bezel blank covering the slim optical drive bay.

Front panel components

1 Slim optical drive (optional) 6 USB 2.0 port with HP Sleep and Charge

2 SD card reader (optional) 7 Audio-out (headphone) jack

3 USB Type-C charging port 8 Audio-out (headphone)/Audio-in (microphone) combo

4 USB 3.x ports (2) 9 Hard drive activity light

jack

5 USB 2.0 port 10 Power button

NOTE: The light on the power button is normally white when the power is on. If it is ashing red, there is a problem with

the computer and it is displaying a diagnostic code. Refer to the Maintenance and Service Guide to interpret the code.

2 Chapter 1 Product features

Rear panel components

Rear panel components

1 Audio-in jack 6 DisplayPort monitor connectors (2)

2 Optional serial port 7 Optional port (DisplayPort, HDMI, VGA or

3 RJ-45 (network) jack 8 USB 2.0 ports (2)

USB-C) (USB-C option has alt mode
DisplayPort or 15W output)

4 Power cord connector 9 USB 3.x ports (4)

5 Audio-out jack for powered audio devices

NOTE: Your model may have additional optional ports available from HP.

When a device is plugged into either audio jack, a dialog box will appear on the monitor screen asking if you want to use the
jack for a microphone or a headphone. You can also recongure the jacks at any time by double-clicking the Audio Manager
icon in the Windows taskbar.

When a graphics card is installed in one of the system board slots, the video connectors on the graphics card and/or the
integrated graphics on the system board may be used. The specic graphics card installed and software conguration will
determine the behavior.

The system board graphics can be disabled by changing settings in BIOS F10 Setup.

Rear panel components 3

Serial number location

Each computer has a unique serial number and a product ID number that are located on the exterior of the
computer. Keep these numbers available for use when contacting customer service for assistance.

4 Chapter 1 Product features

2 Illustrated parts catalog

Small Form Factor (SFF) chassis spare parts

Computer major components

Item Description

(1) System board (includes replacement thermal material)

(2) Access panel

(3) Front bezel

(4) Power supply

180W, 92% ecient

180W, 85% ecient

(5) Fan sink (includes replacement thermal material)

Small Form Factor (SFF) chassis spare parts 5

Item Description

(6) Memory modules (PC4-2400, 2133-MHz)

16-GB

8-GB

4-GB

* Processors (include replacement thermal material; not illustrated)

Intel Core i7-7700 processor

Intel Core i5-7600 processor

Intel Core i5-7500 processor

Intel Core i3-7320 processor

Intel Core i3-7300 processor

Intel Core i3-7100 processor

Intel Core i7-6700 processor

Intel Core i5-6600 processor

Intel Core i5-6500 processor

Intel Core i3-6100 processor

Intel Pentium G4620 processor

Intel Pentium G4600 processor

Intel Pentium G4560 processor

Intel Pentium G4400 processor

Intel Celeron G3950 processor

Intel Celeron G3930 processor

Intel Celeron G3900 processor

6 Chapter 2 Illustrated parts catalog

Misc parts

Item Description

(1) Speaker

(2) Optional serial port

(3) Option board, HDMI

(4) Air duct

(5) Optical drive latch

(6) Hood lock (solenoid)

(7) Optical drive bezel

(8) Card reader

* Bezel blank for optical drive slot

* Printer port, PCIe card

* Stand

* Hard drive isolation grommet

* LED holder

* Hood sensor

* Rubber foot

* Mouse

PS2, optical

Small Form Factor (SFF) chassis spare parts 7

Item Description

USB, laser

USB, optical

USB,antimicrobial

USB, washable

USB, hardened

USB, grey

Wireless

* Keyboards

PS/2 slim

USB/PS2 washable

USB antimicrobial

USB slim

USB grey

Wireless keyboard, mouse, and dongle

8 Chapter 2 Illustrated parts catalog

Cables and adapters

Item Description

(1) SATA drive power cable

(2) SATA data cable, 6 inch, 1 straight end, 1 angled end

(3) SATA data cable, 6 inch, 2 straight ends

* SATA data cable, 14 inch, 1 straight end, 1 angled end

* Serial port cable

* Serial/PS2 port cable

* DisplayPort cable, 1.8 m

* DVI to DVI cable

* Internal antennas

* Antenna cover

* Adapters

DisplayPort to HDMI 1.4

DisplayPort to VGA

DisplayPort to DVI

USB-C to USB 3.0

USB 3.1 Type-C to DisplayPort

Boards, cards, and ports

Description

Graphics cards:

Nvidia GeForce GT730 2 GB PCIe x8

Nvidia GeForce GT720 1 GB PCIe x8

AMD Radeon™ RX 480 2 GB FH PCIe x16

AMD Radeon RX 460 2 GB FH PCIe x16

Small Form Factor (SFF) chassis spare parts 9

Description

AMD Radeon R7 450 4 GB FH PCIe x16 G5

Nvidia GTX 1080 8 GB FH PCIe x16

Graphics card holder bracket

NIC, Intel PRO/1000 Single Port GbE

WLAN modules

Intel 8265 802.11AC 2x2 Wi-Fi +Bluetooth M.2 Combo Card non-VPro

Intel 7265 802.11AC 2x2 Wi-Fi +Bluetooth M.2 Combo Card non-VPro

Intel 3168 802.11AC 2x2 Wi-Fi +Bluetooth M.2 Combo Card non-VPro

Option boards:

HDMI option board

DisplayPort option board

USB 3.1 Type C option board

VGA option board

Serial port

Serial/PS2 port

Drives

RS-232 module

RS-232 to PS2 module

Printer port, PCIe card

USB 3.1 Type-C connector, PCIe card

Description

Hard drives

2-TB, 7200-rpm, 3.5-inch

1-TB, 7200-rpm, 3.5-inch

1-TB, 7200-rpm, 2.5-inch

1-TB, 7200-rpm,. hybrid SSD, 3.5-inch

1-TB, 5400-rpm,. hybrid SSD, 3.5-inch

500 GB, 7200 rpm, 3.5-inch

500 GB, 7200 rpm, 7 mm

500-GB, 7200-rpm, OPAL2, self-encrypting drive (SED)

500-GB, 5400-rpm, FIPS

500-GB, 5400-rpm, hybrid SSD

10 Chapter 2 Illustrated parts catalog

Description

Solid-state drives, 2280, 2.5-inch

512-GB, FIPS-140-2

256-GB, FIPS-140-2

256-GB

128-GB

Solid-state drives, 2280, NVMe, M.2

1 TB, TLC

512-GB, MLC

512-GB, TLC

256-GB, MLC

256-GB, TLC

256-GB, PCIe

Optical drives, 9.5 mm

DVD±RW drive

DVD-ROM drive

Small Form Factor (SFF) chassis spare parts 11

3 Routine care, SATA drive guidelines, and

disassembly preparation

This chapter provides general service information for the computer. Adherence to the procedures and
precautions described in this chapter is essential for proper service.

CAUTION: When the computer is plugged into an AC power source, voltage is always applied to the system

board. You must disconnect the power cord from the power source before opening the computer to prevent
system board or component damage.

Electrostatic discharge information

A sudden discharge of static electricity from your nger or other conductor can destroy static-sensitive
devices or microcircuitry. Often the spark is neither felt nor heard, but damage occurs. An electronic device
exposed to electrostatic discharge (ESD) may not appear to be aected at all and can work perfectly
throughout a normal cycle. The device may function normally for a while, but it has been degraded in the
internal layers, reducing its life expectancy.

Networks built into many integrated circuits provide some protection, but in many cases, the discharge
contains enough power to alter device parameters or melt silicon junctions.

Generating static

The following table shows that:

●

Dierent activities generate dierent amounts of static electricity.

●

Static electricity increases as humidity decreases.

Relative Humidity

Event 55% 40% 10%

Walking across carpet

Walking across vinyl oor

Motions of bench worker

Removing DIPs from plastic tube

Removing DIPs from vinyl tray

Removing DIPs from Styrofoam

Removing bubble pack from PCB

Packing PCBs in foam-lined box

These are then multi-packaged inside plastic tubes, trays, or Styrofoam.

7,500 V

3,000 V

400 V

400 V

2,000 V

3,500 V

7,000 V

5,000 V

15,000 V

5,000 V

800 V

700 V

4,000 V

5,000 V

20,000 V

11,000 V

35,000 V

12,000 V

6,000 V

2,000 V

11,500 V

14,500 V

26,500 V

21,000 V

NOTE: 700 volts can degrade a product.

12 Chapter 3 Routine care, SATA drive guidelines, and disassembly preparation

Preventing electrostatic damage to equipment

Many electronic components are sensitive to ESD. Circuitry design and structure determine the degree of
sensitivity. The following packaging and grounding precautions are necessary to prevent damage to electric
components and accessories.

●

To avoid hand contact, transport products in static-safe containers such as tubes, bags, or boxes.

●

Protect all electrostatic parts and assemblies with conductive or approved containers or packaging.

●

Keep electrostatic sensitive parts in their containers until they arrive at static-free stations.

●

Place items on a grounded surface before removing them from their container.

●

Always be properly grounded when touching a sensitive component or assembly.

●

Avoid contact with pins, leads, or circuitry.

●

Place reusable electrostatic-sensitive parts from assemblies in protective packaging or conductive
foam.

Personal grounding methods and equipment

Use the following equipment to prevent static electricity damage to equipment:

●

Wrist straps are exible straps with a maximum of one-megohm ± 10% resistance in the ground cords.
To provide proper ground, a strap must be worn snug against bare skin. The ground cord must be
connected and t snugly into the banana plug connector on the grounding mat or workstation.

●

Heel straps/Toe straps/Boot straps can be used at standing workstations and are compatible with
most types of shoes or boots. On conductive oors or dissipative oor mats, use them on both feet with
a maximum of one-megohm ± 10% resistance between the operator and ground.

Method Voltage

Antistatic plastic

Carbon-loaded plastic

Metallized laminate

Grounding the work area

To prevent static damage at the work area, use the following precautions:

●

Cover the work surface with approved static-dissipative material. Provide a wrist strap connected to the
work surface and properly grounded tools and equipment.

●

Use static-dissipative mats, foot straps, or air ionizers to give added protection.

●

Handle electrostatic sensitive components, parts, and assemblies by the case or PCB laminate. Handle
them only at static-free work areas.

●

Turn o power and input signals before inserting and removing connectors or test equipment.

Static Shielding Protection Levels

1,500

7,500

15,000

●

Use xtures made of static-safe materials when xtures must directly contact dissipative surfaces.

●

Keep work area free of nonconductive materials such as ordinary plastic assembly aids and Styrofoam.

●

Use eld service tools, such as cutters, screwdrivers, and vacuums, that are conductive.

Electrostatic discharge information 13

Recommended materials and equipment

Materials and equipment that are recommended for use in preventing static electricity include:

●

Antistatic tape

●

Antistatic smocks, aprons, or sleeve protectors

●

Conductive bins and other assembly or soldering aids

●

Conductive foam

●

Conductive tabletop workstations with ground cord of one-megohm +/- 10% resistance

●

Static-dissipative table or oor mats with hard tie to ground

●

Field service kits

●

Static awareness labels

●

Wrist straps and footwear straps providing one-megohm +/- 10% resistance

●

Material handling packages

●

Conductive plastic bags

●

Conductive plastic tubes

●

Conductive tote boxes

●

Opaque shielding bags

●

Transparent metallized shielding bags

●

Transparent shielding tubes

Operating guidelines

To prevent overheating and to help prolong the life of the computer:

●

Keep the computer away from excessive moisture, direct sunlight, and extremes of heat and cold.

●

Operate the computer on a sturdy, level surface. Leave a 10.2-cm (4-inch) clearance on all vented sides
of the computer and above the monitor to permit the required airow.

●

Never restrict the airow into the computer by blocking any vents or air intakes. Do not place the
keyboard, with the keyboard feet down, directly against the front of the desktop unit as this also
restricts airow.

●

Occasionally clean the air vents on all vented sides of the computer. Lint, dust, and other foreign matter
can block the vents and limit the airow. Be sure to unplug the computer before cleaning the air vents.

●

Never operate the computer with the cover or side panel removed.

●

Do not stack computers on top of each other or place computers so near each other that they are subject
to each other’s re-circulated or preheated air.

●

If the computer is to be operated within a separate enclosure, intake and exhaust ventilation must be
provided on the enclosure, and the same operating guidelines listed above will still apply.

●

Keep liquids away from the computer and keyboard.

14 Chapter 3 Routine care, SATA drive guidelines, and disassembly preparation

●

Never cover the ventilation slots on the monitor with any type of material.

●

Install or enable power management functions of the operating system or other software, including
sleep states.

Routine care

General cleaning safety precautions

1. Never use solvents or ammable solutions to clean the computer.

2. Never immerse any parts in water or cleaning solutions; apply any liquids to a clean cloth and then use

the cloth on the component.

3. Always unplug the computer when cleaning with liquids or damp cloths.

4. Always unplug the computer before cleaning the keyboard, mouse, or air vents.

5. Disconnect the keyboard before cleaning it.

6. Wear safety glasses equipped with side shields when cleaning the keyboard.

Cleaning the Computer Case

Follow all safety precautions in General cleaning safety precautions on page 15 before cleaning the computer.

To clean the computer case, follow the procedures described below:

●

To remove light stains or dirt, use plain water with a clean, lint-free cloth or swab.

●

For stronger stains, use a mild dishwashing liquid diluted with water. Rinse well by wiping it with a cloth
or swab dampened with clear water.

●

For stubborn stains, use isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol. No rinsing is needed as the alcohol will evaporate
quickly and not leave a residue.

●

After cleaning, always wipe the unit with a clean, lint-free cloth.

●

Occasionally clean the air vents on the computer. Lint and other foreign matter can block the vents and
limit the airow.

Cleaning the keyboard

Follow all safety precautions in General cleaning safety precautions on page 15 before cleaning the keyboard.

To clean the tops of the keys or the keyboard body, follow the procedures described in Cleaning the Computer

Case on page 15.

When cleaning debris from under the keys, review all rules in General cleaning safety precautions on page 15
before following these procedures:

CAUTION: Use safety glasses equipped with side shields before attempting to clean debris from under the

keys.

●

Visible debris underneath or between the keys may be removed by vacuuming or shaking.

●

Canned, pressurized air may be used to clean debris from under the keys. Caution should be used as too
much air pressure can dislodge lubricants applied under the wide keys.

Routine care 15

●

If you remove a key, use a specially designed key puller to prevent damage to the keys. This tool is
available through many electronic supply outlets.

CAUTION: Never remove a wide leveled key (like the space bar) from the keyboard. If these keys are

improperly removed or installed, the keyboard may not function properly.

●

Cleaning under a key may be done with a swab moistened with isopropyl alcohol and squeezed out. Be
careful not to wipe away lubricants necessary for proper key functions. Use tweezers to remove any
bers or dirt in conned areas. Allow the parts to air dry before reassembly.

Cleaning the monitor

●

Wipe the monitor screen with a clean cloth moistened with water or with a towelette designed for
cleaning monitors. Do not use sprays or aerosols directly on the screen; the liquid may seep into the
housing and damage a component. Never use solvents or ammable liquids on the monitor.

●

To clean the monitor body follow the procedures in Cleaning the Computer Case on page 15.

Cleaning the mouse

Before cleaning the mouse, ensure that the power to the computer is turned o.

●

Clean the mouse ball by rst removing the retaining plate and the ball from the housing. Pull out any
debris from the ball socket and wipe the ball with a clean, dry cloth before reassembly.

●

To clean the mouse body, follow the procedures in Cleaning the Computer Case on page 15.

Service considerations

Listed below are some of the considerations that you should keep in mind during the disassembly and
assembly of the computer.

Power supply fan

The power supply fan is a variable-speed fan based on the temperature in the power supply.

CAUTION: The cooling fan is always on when the computer is in the “On” mode. The cooling fan is o when

the computer is in “Standby,” “Suspend,” or “O” modes.

You must disconnect the power cord from the power source before opening the computer to prevent system
board or component damage.

Tools and software Requirements

To service the computer, you need the following:

●

Torx T-15 screwdriver

●

Torx T-15 screwdriver with small diameter shank (for certain front bezel removal)

●

Flat-bladed screwdriver (may sometimes be used in place of the Torx screwdriver)

●

Phillips #2 screwdriver

●

Diagnostics software

●

Tamper-resistant T-15 wrench

16 Chapter 3 Routine care, SATA drive guidelines, and disassembly preparation

Screws

The screws used in the computer are not interchangeable. They may have standard or metric threads and may
be of dierent lengths. If an incorrect screw is used during the reassembly process, it can damage the unit. HP
strongly recommends that all screws removed during disassembly be kept with the part that was removed,
then returned to their proper locations.

CAUTION: Metric screws have a black nish. U.S. screws have a silver nish and are used on hard drives only.

CAUTION: As each subassembly is removed from the computer, it should be placed away from the work area

to prevent damage.

Cables and connectors

Most cables used throughout the unit are at, exible cables. These cables must be handled with care to
avoid damage. Apply only the tension required to seat or unseat the cables during insertion or removal from
the connector. Handle cables by the connector whenever possible. In all cases, avoid bending or twisting the
cables, and ensure that the cables are routed in such a way that they cannot be caught or snagged by parts
being removed or replaced.

CAUTION: When servicing this computer, ensure that cables are placed in their proper location during the

reassembly process. Improper cable placement can damage the computer.

Hard Drives

Handle hard drives as delicate, precision components, avoiding all physical shock and vibration. This applies
to failed drives as well as replacement spares.

●

If a drive must be mailed, place the drive in a bubble-pack mailer or other suitable protective packaging
and label the package “Fragile: Handle With Care.”

●

Do not remove hard drives from the shipping package for storage. Keep hard drives in their protective
packaging until they are actually mounted in the computer.

●

Avoid dropping drives from any height onto any surface.

●

If you are inserting or removing a hard drive, turn o the computer. Do not remove a hard drive while the
computer is on or in standby mode.

●

Before handling a drive, ensure that you are discharged of static electricity. While handling a drive, avoid
touching the connector.

●

Do not use excessive force when inserting a drive.

●

Avoid exposing a hard drive to liquids, temperature extremes, or products that have magnetic elds
such as monitors or speakers.

Lithium coin cell battery

The battery that comes with the computer provides power to the real-time clock and has a minimum lifetime
of about three years.

See the appropriate removal and replacement chapter for the chassis you are working on in this guide for
instructions on the replacement procedures.

WARNING! This computer contains a lithium battery. There is a risk of re and chemical burn if the battery is

handled improperly. Do not disassemble, crush, puncture, short external contacts, dispose in water or re, or
expose it to temperatures higher than 140ºF (60ºC). Do not attempt to recharge the battery.

Service considerations 17

NOTE: Batteries, battery packs, and accumulators should not be disposed of together with the general

household waste. In order to forward them to recycling or proper disposal, please use the public collection
system or return them to HP, their authorized partners, or their agents.

SATA hard drives

Serial ATA Hard Drive Characteristics

Number of pins/conductors in data cable 7/7

Number of pins in power cable 15

Maximum data cable length 39.37 in (100 cm)

Data interface voltage dierential 400-700 mV

Drive voltages 3.3 V, 5 V, 12 V

Jumpers for conguring drive N/A

Data transfer rate 6.0 Gb/s

SATA hard drive cables

SATA data cable

Always use an HP approved SATA 6.0 Gb/s cable as it is fully backwards compatible with the SATA 1.5 Gb/s
drives.

Current HP desktop products ship with SATA 6.0 Gb/s hard drives.

SATA data cables are susceptible to damage if overexed. Never crease a SATA data cable and never bend it
tighter than a 30 mm (1.18 in) radius.

The SATA data cable is a thin, 7-pin cable designed to transmit data for only a single drive.

SMART ATA drives

The Self Monitoring Analysis and Recording Technology (SMART) ATA drives for the HP Personal Computers
have built-in drive failure prediction that warns the user or network administrator of an impending failure or
crash of the hard drive. The SMART drive tracks fault prediction and failure indication parameters such as
reallocated sector count, spin retry count, and calibration retry count. If the drive determines that a failure is
imminent, it generates a fault alert.

18 Chapter 3 Routine care, SATA drive guidelines, and disassembly preparation

Cable management

Always follow good cable management practices when working inside the computer.

●

Keep cables away from major heat sources like the heat sink.

●

Do not jam cables on top of expansion cards or memory modules. Printed circuit cards like these are not
designed to take excessive pressure on them.

●

Keep cables clear of sliding or moveable parts to prevent them from being cut or crimped when the parts
are moved.

●

When folding a at ribbon cable, never fold to a sharp crease. Sharp creases may damage the wires.

●

Some at ribbon cables come prefolded. Never change the folds on these cables.

●

Do not bend any cable sharply. A sharp bend can break the internal wires.

●

Never bend a SATA data cable tighter than a 30 mm (1.18 in) radius.

●

Never crease a SATA data cable.

●

Do not rely on components like the drive cage, power supply, or computer cover to push cables down
into the chassis. Always position the cables to lay properly by themselves.

Cable management 19

4 Removal and replacement procedures –

small form factor (SFF) chassis

Adherence to the procedures and precautions described in this chapter is essential for proper service. After
completing all necessary removal and replacement procedures, run the Diagnostics utility to verify that all
components operate properly.

NOTE: Not all features listed in this guide are available on all computers.

Preparation for disassembly

See Routine care, SATA drive guidelines, and disassembly preparation on page 12 for initial safety procedures.

1. Remove/disengage any security devices that prohibit opening the computer.

2. Close any open software applications.

3. Exit the operating system.

4. Remove any compact disc or media card from the computer.

5. Turn o the computer and any peripheral devices that are connected to it.

CAUTION: Turn o the computer before disconnecting any cables.

Regardless of the power-on state, voltage is always present on the system board as long as the system
is plugged into an active AC outlet. In some systems the cooling fan is on even when the computer is in
the “Standby,” or “Suspend” modes. The power cord should always be disconnected before servicing a
unit.

6. Disconnect the power cord from the electrical outlet and then from the computer.

7. Disconnect all peripheral device cables from the computer.

NOTE: During disassembly, label each cable as you remove it, noting its position and routing. Keep all

screws with the units removed.

CAUTION: The screws used in the computer are of dierent thread sizes and lengths; using the wrong

screw in an application may damage the unit.

8. If the computer is on a stand, remove the computer from the stand.

20 Chapter 4 Removal and replacement procedures – small form factor (SFF) chassis

Access panel

1. Prepare the computer for disassembly (Preparation for disassembly on page 20).

2. Slide the access panel release lever to the left (1) so that it locks into place. Then slide the access panel

back (2) and lift it o the computer (3).

To install the access panel, reverse the removal procedure.

Front bezel

1. Prepare the computer for disassembly (Preparation for disassembly on page 20).

2. Remove the access panel (Access panel on page 21).

3. Lift up the three tabs on the top of the bezel (1), and then rotate the bezel o the chassis (2).

To install the front bezel, reverse the removal procedure.

Access panel 21

Slim optical drive bezel blank

On some models, there is a bezel blank covering the slim optical drive bay. Remove the bezel blank before
installing an optical drive. To remove the bezel blank:

1. Prepare the computer for disassembly (Preparation for disassembly on page 20).

2. Remove the access panel (Access panel on page 21).

3. Remove the front bezel (Front bezel on page 21).

4. Then press inward on the tab on the left side of the blank (1), and then rotate the blank o the front

(2).

bezel

NOTE: After removing the slim optical drive bezel blank and installing a slim optical drive, you can install an

optional bezel trim piece (available from HP) that surrounds the front of the slim optical drive.

22 Chapter 4 Removal and replacement procedures – small form factor (SFF) chassis

Front bezel dust lter

Some models are equipped with an optional front bezel dust lter. You must periodically clean the dust lter
so that the dust collected on the lter does not impede air ow through the computer.

NOTE: The optional front bezel dust lter is available from HP.

To remove, clean, and replace the dust lter:

1. Prepare the computer for disassembly (Preparation for disassembly on page 20).

2. To remove the dust lter, use your ngers to separate the lter from the front bezel at the tab locations

shown below.

3. Use a soft brush or cloth to clean dust from the lter. If heavily soiled, rinse the lter clean with water.

4. To replace the dust lter, press the lter rmly onto the front bezel at the tab locations shown below.

Front bezel dust lter 23

System board connections

Refer to the following illustration and table to identify the system board connectors for your model.

Item System board connector System board label Color Component

1 PCI Express x16 downshifted to

a x4

2 PCI Express x1 X1PCIEXP2 Black Expansion card

3 PCI Express x1 X1PCIEXP1 Black Expansion card

4 PCI Express x16 X16PCIEXP Black Expansion card

5 DIMM4 (Channel A) DIMM4 White Memory module

6 DIMM3 (Channel A) DIMM3 Black Memory module

7 DIMM2 (Channel B) DIMM2 White Memory module

8 DIMM1 (Channel B) DIMM1 Black Memory module

9 M.2 WLAN WLAN Black M.2 WLAN card

10 Battery BAT Black Battery

11 SATA 3.0 SATA0 Dark blue Primary hard drive

12 SATA 3.0 SATA3 Light blue Any SATA device other than the primary

13 SATA 3.0 SATA2 Light blue Any SATA device other than the primary

14 SATA 3.0 SATA1 Light blue Any SATA device other than the primary

X4PCIEXP White Expansion card

hard drive

hard drive

hard drive

15 M.2 SSD SSD Black M.2 SSD storage card

24 Chapter 4 Removal and replacement procedures – small form factor (SFF) chassis

Memory

The computer comes with double data rate 4 synchronous dynamic random access memory (DDR4-SDRAM)
dual inline memory modules (DIMMs).

The memory sockets on the system board are populated with at least one preinstalled memory module. To
achieve the maximum memory support, you can populate the system board with up to 64 GB of memory
congured in a high-performing dual-channel mode.

For proper system operation, the DIMMs must adhere to the following specications:

●

●

●

●

●

The computer supports the following:

●

●

●

Industry-standard 288-pin

Unbuered non-ECC PC4-19200 DDR4-2400 MHz-compliant

1.2 volt DDR4-SDRAM memory modules

CAS latency 17 DDR4 2400 MHz (17-17-17 timing)

Mandatory JEDEC SPD information

512 Mb, 1 Gb, 2 Gb, and 4 Gb non-ECC memory technologies

Single-sided and double-sided memory modules

Memory modules constructed with x8 and x16 DDR devices; memory modules constructed with x4
SDRAM are not supported

NOTE: The system does not operate properly if you install unsupported memory modules.

Populating DIMM sockets

There are four memory sockets on the system board, with two sockets per channel. The sockets are labeled
DIMM1, DIMM2, DIMM3, and DIMM4. Sockets DIMM1 and DIMM2 operate in memory channel B. Sockets DIMM3
and DIMM4 operate in memory channel A.

The system will automatically operate in single-channel mode, dual-channel mode, or ex mode, depending
on how the DIMMs are installed.

NOTE: Single-channel and unbalanced dual-channel memory congurations will result in inferior graphics

performance.

●

The system will operate in single-channel mode if the DIMM sockets are populated in one channel only.

●

The system will operate in a higher-performing dual-channel mode if the total memory capacity of the
DIMMs in Channel A is equal to the total memory capacity of the DIMMs in Channel B. The technology and
device width can vary between the channels. For example, if Channel A is populated with two 1 GB
DIMMs and Channel B is populated with one 2 GB DIMM, the system will operate in dual-channel mode.

●

The system will operate in ex mode if the total memory capacity of the DIMMs in Channel A is not equal
to the total memory capacity of the DIMMs in Channel B. In ex mode, the channel populated with the
least amount of memory describes the total amount of memory assigned to dual channel and the
remainder is assigned to single channel. For optimal speed, the channels should be balanced so that the
largest amount of memory is spread between the two channels. If one channel will have more memory
than the other, the larger amount should be assigned to Channel A. For example, if you are populating
the sockets with one 2 GB DIMM, and three 1 GB DIMMs, Channel A should be populated with the 2 GB

Memory 25

DIMM and one 1 GB DIMM, and Channel B should be populated with the other two 1 GB DIMMs. With this
conguration, 4 GB will run as dual-channel and 1 GB will run as single-channel.

●

In any mode, the maximum operational speed is determined by the slowest DIMM in the system.

Removing and installing DIMMs

CAUTION: You must disconnect the power cord and wait approximately 30 seconds for the power to drain

before adding or removing memory modules. Regardless of the power-on state, voltage is always supplied to
the memory modules as long as the computer is plugged into an active AC outlet. Adding or removing
memory modules while voltage is present may cause irreparable damage to the memory modules or system
board.

The memory module sockets have gold-plated metal contacts. When upgrading the memory, it is important
to use memory modules with gold-plated metal contacts to prevent corrosion and/or oxidation resulting from
having incompatible metals in contact with each other.

Static electricity can damage the electronic components of the computer or optional cards. Before beginning
these procedures, ensure that you are discharged of static electricity by
object.

When handling a memory module, be careful not to touch any of the contacts. Doing so may damage the
module.

1. Prepare the computer for disassembly (Preparation for disassembly on page 20).

2. Remove the access panel (Access panel on page 21).

briey touching a grounded metal

3. To remove a memory module, open both latches of the memory module socket (1), and then remove the

memory module from the socket (2).

4. To install a memory module, open both latches of the memory module socket (1), and insert the

memory module into the socket (2).

NOTE: A memory module can be installed in only one way. Match the notch on the module with the tab

on the memory socket.

Populate the black DIMM sockets before the white DIMM sockets.

For maximum performance, populate the sockets so that the memory capacity is spread as equally as
possible between Channel A and Channel B.

26 Chapter 4 Removal and replacement procedures – small form factor (SFF) chassis

5. Push the module down into the socket, ensuring that the module is fully inserted and properly seated.

Make sure the latches are in the closed position (3).

6. Replace the access panel.

7. If the computer was on a stand, replace the stand.

8. Reconnect the power cord and turn on the computer.

9. Lock any security devices that were disengaged when the access panel was removed.

The computer should automatically recognize the additional memory the next time you turn on the computer.

Memory 27

Expansion card

For a list of available expansion cards, see Boards, cards, and ports on page 9.

The computer has two PCI Express x1 expansion sockets, one PCI Express x16 expansion socket, and one PCI
Express x16 expansion socket that is downshifted to a x4 socket.

NOTE: The PCI Express sockets support only low prole cards.

You can install a PCI Express x1, x4, x8, or x16 expansion card in the PCI Express x16 socket.

For dual graphics card congurations, the rst (primary) card must be installed in the PCI Express x16 socket
that is NOT downshifted to a x4.

To remove, replace, or add an expansion card:

1. Prepare the computer for disassembly (Preparation for disassembly on page 20).

2. Remove the access panel (Access panel on page 21).

3. Locate the correct vacant expansion socket on the system board and the corresponding expansion slot

on the back of the computer chassis.

4. Release the slot cover retention latch that secures the slot covers by lifting the tab on the latch and

rotating the latch to the open position.

5. Before installing an expansion card, remove the expansion slot cover or the existing expansion card.

NOTE: Before removing an installed expansion card, disconnect any cables that may be attached to

the expansion card.

a. If you are installing an expansion card in a vacant socket, remove the appropriate expansion slot

cover on the back of the chassis. Pull the slot cover straight up then away from the inside of the
chassis.

28 Chapter 4 Removal and replacement procedures – small form factor (SFF) chassis

b. If you are removing a PCI Express x1 card, hold the card at each end and carefully rock it back and

forth until the connectors pull free from the socket. Lift the card straight up (1), and then away
from the inside of the chassis (2) to remove it. Be sure not to scrape the card against other
components.

Expansion card 29

c. If you are removing a PCI Express x16 card, pull the retention arm on the back of the expansion

socket away from the card (1) and carefully rock the card back and forth until the connectors pull
free from the socket. Lift the card straight up (2), and then away from the inside of the chassis (3)
to remove it. Be sure not to scrape the card against other components.

6. Store the removed card in anti-static packaging.

7. If you are not installing a new expansion card, install an expansion slot cover to close the open slot.

IMPORTANT: After removing an expansion card, you must replace it with a new card or expansion slot

cover for proper cooling of internal components during operation.

8. To install a new expansion card, hold the card just above the expansion socket on the system board then

move the card toward the rear of the chassis (1) so that the bottom of the bracket on the card slides into
the small slot on the chassis. Press the card straight down into the expansion socket on the system
board (2).

NOTE: When installing an expansion card, press rmly on the card so that the whole connector is

seated properly in the expansion card socket.

30 Chapter 4 Removal and replacement procedures – small form factor (SFF) chassis

9. Rotate the slot cover retention latch back in place to secure the expansion card.

10. Connect external cables to the installed card, if needed. Connect internal cables to the system board, if

needed.

Expansion card 31

Drives

For a list of available drives, see Drives on page 10.

Drive positions

Drive positions

1 3.5-inch secondary hard drive bay

2 3.5-inch primary hard drive bay

3 2.5-inch hard drive bay

4 9.5 mm slim optical drive bay

NOTE: The drive conguration on your computer may be dierent than the drive

conguration shown above.

Installing and Removing Drives

When installing drives, follow these guidelines:

●

The primary Serial ATA (SATA) hard drive must be connected to the dark blue primary SATA connector on
the system board labeled SATA0.

●

Connect secondary hard drives and optical drives to one of the light blue SATA connectors on the system
board (labeled SATA1, SATA2, and SATA3).

IMPORTANT: To prevent loss of work and damage to the computer or drive:

If you are inserting or removing a drive, shut down the operating system properly, turn o the computer, and
unplug the power cord. Do not remove a drive while the computer is on or in standby mode.

Before handling a drive, be sure that you are discharged of static electricity. While handling a drive, avoid
touching the connector.

Handle a drive carefully; do not drop it.

Do not use excessive force when inserting a drive.

Avoid exposing a hard drive to liquids, temperature extremes, or products that have magnetic elds such as
monitors or speakers.

If a drive must be mailed, place the drive in a bubble-pack mailer or other protective packaging and label the
package “Fragile: Handle With Care.”

32 Chapter 4 Removal and replacement procedures – small form factor (SFF) chassis

Removing a 9.5 mm slim optical drive

CAUTION: All removable media should be taken out of a drive before removing the drive from the computer.

1. Prepare the computer for disassembly (Preparation for disassembly on page 20).

2. Remove the access panel (Access panel on page 21).

3. Disconnect the power cable (1) and data cable (2) from the rear of the optical drive.

IMPORTANT: When removing the cables, pull the tab or connector instead of the cable itself to avoid

damaging the cable.

4. Push the green release latch on the right rear side of the drive toward the center of the drive (1), and

then slide the drive forward and out of the bay (2).

Drives 33

Installing a 9.5 mm slim optical drive

1. Prepare the computer for disassembly (Preparation for disassembly on page 20).

2. Remove the access panel (Access panel on page 21).

3. If you are installing a slim optical drive in a bay covered by a bezel blank, remove the front bezel and

then remove the bezel blank. See Slim optical drive bezel blank on page 22 for more information.

4. Align the small pin on the release latch with the small hole on the side of the drive and press the latch

rmly onto the drive.

5. Slide the optical drive through the front bezel all the way into the bay (1) so that the latch on the rear of

the drive locks into place (2).

34 Chapter 4 Removal and replacement procedures – small form factor (SFF) chassis

6. Connect the power cable (1) and data cable (2) to the rear of the drive.

7. Connect the opposite end of the data cable to one of the light blue SATA connectors on the system board

labeled SATA1, SATA2, or SATA3.

NOTE: Refer to System board connections on page 24 for an illustration of the system board drive

connectors.

8. Reassemble the computer.

Removing a 3.5-inch hard drive

NOTE: Before you remove the old hard drive, be sure to back up the data from the old hard drive so that you

can transfer the data to the new hard drive.

There are two 3.5-inch hard drive bays. The procedure for removing a 3.5-inch hard drive is the same for each
drive bay.

1. Prepare the computer for disassembly (Preparation for disassembly on page 20).

2. Remove the access panel (Access panel on page 21).

Drives 35

3. Disconnect the power cable (1) and data cable (2) from the rear of the hard drive.

4. Pull the release lever next to the rear of the hard drive outward (1). While pulling the release lever out,

lift the rear of the drive up (2), and then slide the front of the drive back and lift it out of the bay (3).

36 Chapter 4 Removal and replacement procedures – small form factor (SFF) chassis

5. Remove the four mounting screws (two on each side) from the old drive. You will need these screws if

you install a new drive.

Drives 37

Installing a 3.5-inch hard drive

NOTE: There are two 3.5-inch hard drive bays. The procedure for installing a 3.5-inch hard drive is the same

for each drive bay.

1. Prepare the computer for disassembly (Preparation for disassembly on page 20).

2. Remove the access panel (Access panel on page 21).

3. Install mounting screws on the sides of the hard drive using standard 6-32 silver-and-blue mounting

screws.

NOTE: If replacing a 3.5-inch hard drive, transfer the mounting screws from the old hard drive to the

new hard drive.

If you are adding a second 3.5-inch hard drive, you can purchase extra mounting screws from HP.

●

Install four silver-and-blue 6-32 mounting screws (two on each side of the drive).

●

You can also install a 2.5-inch hard drive into a 3.5-inch drive bay using an adapter bracket similar
to the example shown below.

–

Slide the 2.5-inch drive into the 3.5-inch adapter bracket.

38 Chapter 4 Removal and replacement procedures – small form factor (SFF) chassis

–

Secure the drive to the bay adapter bracket by installing four black M3 adapter bracket screws
through the underside of the bracket and into the drive.

Drives 39

–

Install four 6-32 silver-and-blue mounting screws in the adapter bracket (two on each side of
the bracket).

4. Align the mounting screws on the front of the hard drive with the slots on the drive cage and press the

front of the drive down and forward into the bay (1). Then press the rear of the drive down into the drive
bay (2) to lock it in place.

40 Chapter 4 Removal and replacement procedures – small form factor (SFF) chassis

5. Connect the power cable (1) and data cable (2) to the rear of the hard drive.

NOTE: If the 3.5-inch hard drive is the primary drive, connect the other end of the data cable to the

dark blue SATA connector on the system board labeled SATA0. If it is a secondary hard drive, connect the
other end of the data cable to one of the light blue SATA connectors on the system board.

6. Reassemble the computer.

Hard drive cage

1. Prepare the computer for disassembly (Preparation for disassembly on page 20).

2. Remove the access panel (Access panel on page 21).

3. Rotate the drive cage to its upright position.

Drives 41

Removing a 2.5-inch hard drive

1. Prepare the computer for disassembly (Preparation for disassembly on page 20).

2. Remove the access panel (Access panel on page 21).

3. Rotate the hard drive cage to its upright position (Hard drive cage on page 41).

4. Disconnect the power cable (1) and data cable (2) from the rear of the hard drive.

5. Pull the release lever at the rear of the drive outward (1). Then slide the drive back until it stops and pull

it down and out of the drive bay (2).

6. If you are installing a new drive, refer to Installing a 2.5-inch hard drive on page 43. If you are not

installing a new drive, rotate the drive cage down and replace the front bezel and access panel.

42 Chapter 4 Removal and replacement procedures – small form factor (SFF) chassis

Installing a 2.5-inch hard drive

1. Prepare the computer for disassembly (Preparation for disassembly on page 20).

2. Remove the access panel (Access panel on page 21).

3. Remove the front bezel (Front bezel on page 21).

4. Install four black-and-blue M3 mounting screws (two on each side of the drive).

NOTE: M3 metric mounting screws can be purchased from HP.

When replacing a drive, transfer the four mounting screws from the old drive to the new drive.

5. Rotate the hard drive cage to its upright position (Hard drive cage on page 41).

6. Align the mounting screws on the drive with the J-slots on the sides of the drive bay. Press the drive into

the drive bay, and then slide the drive forward until it locks in place.

Drives 43

7. Connect the power cable (1) and data cable (2) to the rear of the hard drive.

NOTE: If the 2.5-inch hard drive is the primary drive, connect the other end of the data cable to the

dark blue SATA connector on the system board labeled SATA0. If it is a secondary hard drive, connect the
other end of the data cable to one of the light blue SATA connectors on the system board.

8. Rotate the drive cage back down to its normal position.

IMPORTANT: Be careful not to pinch any cables or wires when rotating the drive cage down.

9. Reassemble the computer.

Removing and installing an M.2 SSD storage card

NOTE: The computer supports 2230 and 2280 M.2 SSD cards.

1. Prepare the computer for disassembly (Preparation for disassembly on page 20).

2. Remove the access panel (Access panel on page 21).

3. Remove the front bezel (Front bezel on page 21).

4. Rotate the hard drive cage to its upright position (Hard drive cage on page 41).

44 Chapter 4 Removal and replacement procedures – small form factor (SFF) chassis

5. To remove an M.2 SSD card, remove the screw that secures the card (1), lift the end of the card up (2),

and then slide the card out of the system board connector (3).

6. To install an M.2 SSD card, slide the pins on the card into the system board connector while holding the

card at approximately a 30° angle (1). Press the other end of the card down (2), and then secure the card
with the screw (3).

7. Rotate the drive cage back down to its normal position.

IMPORTANT: Be careful not to pinch any cables or wires when rotating the drive cage down.

8. Reassemble the computer.

Drives 45

WLAN module

The WLAN module installs into a connector on the system board.

For a list of available WLAN modules, see Boards, cards, and ports on page 9.

To remove the WLAN module:

1. Prepare the computer for disassembly (Preparation for disassembly on page 20).

2. Remove the access panel (Access panel on page 21).

3. Rotate the hard drive cage to its upright position (Hard drive cage on page 41).

4. Disconnect the WLAN antenna cables (1) from the terminals on the WLAN module.

NOTE: The WLAN antenna cable labeled “1” connects to the WLAN module “Main” terminal labeled “1”.

The WLAN antenna cable labeled “2” connects to the WLAN module “Aux” terminal labeled “2”.

5. Remove the Phillips PM2.0×3.0 screw (2) that secures the WLAN module to the computer. (The edge of

the module opposite the slot rises away from the computer.)

6. Remove the WLAN module (3) by pulling the module away from the slot at an angle.

NOTE: WLAN modules are designed with a notch to prevent incorrect insertion.

Reverse this procedure to install the WLAN module.

46 Chapter 4 Removal and replacement procedures – small form factor (SFF) chassis

Air duct

The air duct sits over the fan sink.

1. Prepare the computer for disassembly (Preparation for disassembly on page 20).

2. Remove the access panel (Access panel on page 21).

3. Remove the power supply cable from the clips in the air duct.

4. Pull the tabs on the duct away from each other (1), and then lift the duct up to gain access to the cable

routing clip at the bottom of the duct (2).

Air duct 47

5. Remove the power supply cable and hood sensor cable from the clip near the bottom of the duct, and

then remove the duct from the computer.

To install the aid duct, reverse the removal procedure.

48 Chapter 4 Removal and replacement procedures – small form factor (SFF) chassis

Power supply

For a list of available power supplies, see Computer major components on page 5.

WARNING! To reduce potential safety issues, only the power supply provided with the computer, a

replacement power supply provided by HP, or a power supply purchased as an accessory from HP should be
used with the computer.

WARNING! Voltage is always present on the system board when the computer is plugged into an active AC

outlet. To avoid possible personal injury and damage to the equipment the power cord should be
disconnected from the computer and/or the AC outlet before opening the computer.

1. Prepare the computer for disassembly (Preparation for disassembly on page 20).

2. Remove the access panel (Access panel on page 21).

3. Remove the air duct (Air duct on page 47).

4. Rotate the hard drive cage to its upright position (Hard drive cage on page 41).

5. From the outside, rear of the chassis, remove the three Torx T15 that secure the power supply to the

back of the chassis.

6. From the inside of the chassis, disconnect all power cables from the system board as follows:

●

PWRCMD

●

PWR

●

PWRCPU

Power supply 49

7. Push the release lever at the front of the power supply (1), slide the power supply forward, and then

remove it from the chassis (2).

To install the power supply, reverse the removal procedure.

CAUTION: When installing the power supply cables, make sure they are properly positioned so they are not

pinched by the drive cage.

50 Chapter 4 Removal and replacement procedures – small form factor (SFF) chassis

Fan sink

CAUTION: The bond between the fan sink and the processor may be very tight.

If the computer will power on, before removing the fan sink, turn on the computer until it warms the fan sink.
Warming the heat sink lessens the bond between the fan sink and the processor, thereby making separating
them easier.

Make sure not to pull the processor out of the socket when you lift the fan sink, especially if you cannot warm
the fan sink prior to removal. Inadvertently removing the processor can damage the pins.

The fan sink is secured atop the processor with four captive Torx screws.

1. Prepare the computer for disassembly (Preparation for disassembly on page 20).

2. Remove the access panel (Access panel on page 21).

3. Remove the air duct (Air duct on page 47).

4. Disconnect the fan cable from the system board connector labeled CPUFAN (1), and then loosen the four

captive screws (2) that secure the fan sink to the system board tray.

CAUTION: Fan sink retaining screws should be removed in diagonally opposite pairs (as in an X) to even

the downward forces on the processor. This is especially important as the pins on the socket are very
fragile and any damage to them may require replacing the system board.

Fan sink 51

5. Lift the fan sink from atop the processor and set it on its side to keep from contaminating the work area

with thermal grease.

When reinstalling the fan sink, make sure that its bottom has been cleaned with an alcohol wipe and fresh
thermal grease has been applied to the top of the processor.

CAUTION: Fan sink retaining screws should be tightened in diagonally opposite pairs (as in an X) to evenly

seat the fan sink on the processor to avoid damage that could require replacing the system board.

Failure to install the bae may cause the computer to overheat.

52 Chapter 4 Removal and replacement procedures – small form factor (SFF) chassis

Processor

For a list of available processors, see Computer major components on page 5.

1. Prepare the computer for disassembly (Preparation for disassembly on page 20).

2. Remove the access panel (Access panel on page 21).

3. Remove the air duct (Air duct on page 47).

4. Remove the fan sink (Fan sink on page 51).

5. Rotate the locking lever to its full open position (1).

6. Raise and rotate the microprocessor retainer to its fully open position (2).

7. Lift the processor (3) straight up and remove it.

CAUTION: Do NOT handle the pins in the processor socket. These pins are very fragile and handling

them could cause irreparable damage. Once pins are damaged it may be necessary to replace the
system board.

The heat sink must be installed within 24 hours of installing the processor to prevent damage to the
processor’s solder connections.

NOTE: After installing a new processor onto the system board, always update the system ROM to ensure

that the latest version of the BIOS is being used on the computer. The latest system BIOS can be found on the
Web at: http://www8.hp.com/us/en/support-drivers.html.

Processor 53

Antennas

The antennas route from the WLAN module to the front and the rear of the computer.

To replace the antennas:

1. Prepare the computer for disassembly (Preparation for disassembly on page 20).

2. Remove the access panel (Access panel on page 21).

3. Remove the front bezel (Front bezel on page 21).

4. Rotate the hard drive cage to its upright position (Hard drive cage on page 41).

5. Remove the air duct (Air duct on page 47).

6. Remove the fan sink (Fan sink on page 51).

7. Disconnect the internal antennas from the WLAN module (WLAN module on page 46).

8. From the front of the computer, remove the Torx screw that secures the antenna to the front of the

9. Remove the antenna wire from the clips that secure it to the computer (2), and then pull the antenna

computer (1).

through the hole (3) and away from the computer.

10. From inside the computer, remove the antenna wire from its path next to the system board.

54 Chapter 4 Removal and replacement procedures – small form factor (SFF) chassis

11. From the inside, rear of the computer, press the tab that secures the antenna cover to the computer.

12. From the outside, rear of the computer, rotate the cover downward and o the computer.

Antennas 55

13. From the rear of the computer, remove the Torx T15 screw that secures the antenna to the computer.

Pull the antenna cable out through the hole in the chassis.

Reverse the removal procedure to install the WLAN antennas and transceivers.

56 Chapter 4 Removal and replacement procedures – small form factor (SFF) chassis

Option port board

For a list of available option port boards, see Boards, cards, and ports on page 9.

An option port board can be installed near the back of the system board that provides an additional connector
on the rear I/O panel.

NOTE: The image in this section shows an HDMI port expansion board.

To remove the option port board:

1. Prepare the computer for disassembly (Preparation for disassembly on page 20).

2. Remove the access panel (Access panel on page 21).

3. Remove the air duct (Air duct on page 47).

4. Remove the two Phillips screws (1) that secure the board to the system board.

5. Lift to disengage the board from the system board connector, and then remove the board from the

computer (2).

To install the option port board, reverse the removal procedures.

Option port board 57

Hood lock

The hood lock is attached to the rear of the chassis.

1. Prepare the computer for disassembly (Preparation for disassembly on page 20).

2. Remove the access panel (Access panel on page 21).

3. On the rear of the computer, remove the security screw that secures the lock.

4. From the inside of the computer, disconnect the hood lock cable from the system board connector

NOTE: The security screw requires a special security wrench to remove.

labeled HLCK (1).

5. Lift the hood lock out of the computer (2).

To install the hood lock, reverse the removal procedure.

When installing the hood lock, on the inside rear of the computer, insert the clips on the back of the lock into
the slots on the computer rear panel, and then rotate the lock down into place.

58 Chapter 4 Removal and replacement procedures – small form factor (SFF) chassis

Hood sensor

The hood sensor is attached to the rear of the chassis.

1. Prepare the computer for disassembly (Preparation for disassembly on page 20).

2. Remove the access panel (Access panel on page 21).

3. Remove the air duct (Air duct on page 47).

4. Disconnect the hood sensor cable from the system board connector labeled HSENSE (1).

5. Slide the hood sensor out of the slot on the rear of the chassis (2). A tool such as a screwdriver may be

required to disengage the hood sensor from the slot.

To install the hood sensor, reverse the removal procedure.

Hood sensor 59

Card reader

The card reader is attached to the front of the rotating drive cage.

1. Prepare the computer for disassembly (Preparation for disassembly on page 20).

2. Remove the access panel (Access panel on page 21).

3. Remove the front bezel (Front bezel on page 21).

4. Rotate the hard drive cage to its upright position (Hard drive cage on page 41).

5. From the inside of the chassis, disconnect the card reader cable from the white system board labeled SD

RDR.

6. Rotate the hard drive cage down to its normal position (Hard drive cage on page 41).

60 Chapter 4 Removal and replacement procedures – small form factor (SFF) chassis

7. From the outside, front of the chassis, remove the Torx T15 screw (1) that secures the card reader, and

then slide the card reader out the front of the chassis (2).

To install the card reader, reverse the removal procedures.

Card reader 61

Speaker

The speaker is attached to the front of the rotating drive cage.

1. Prepare the computer for disassembly (Preparation for disassembly on page 20).

2. Remove the access panel (Access panel on page 21).

3. Remove the front bezel (Front bezel on page 21).

4. Rotate the hard drive cage to its upright position (Hard drive cage on page 41).

5. From the outside, front of the chassis, remove the two Torx T15 screws that secure the speaker.

6. From the inside of the chassis, disconnect the speaker cable from the white system board labeled SPKR

(1), and then slide the speaker to the right and remove it from the chassis (2).

To install the speaker, reverse the removal procedures. The following images shows the installation location
inside of the front of the computer.

62 Chapter 4 Removal and replacement procedures – small form factor (SFF) chassis

Speaker 63

System board

NOTE: All system board spare part kits include replacement thermal material.

NOTE: System board appearance may vary.

1. Prepare the computer for disassembly (Preparation for disassembly on page 20).

2. Remove the access panel (Access panel on page 21).

3. Remove the air duct (Air duct on page 47).

4. Rotate the hard drive cage to its upright position (Hard drive cage on page 41).

5. When replacing the system board, make sure the following components are removed from the defective

system board and installed on the replacement system board:

●

Memory modules (Memory on page 25)

●

Expansion cards (Expansion card on page 28)

●

Fan sink (Fan sink on page 51)

●

Processor (Processor on page 53)

●

WLAN module (WLAN module on page 46)

●

Solid-state drive (Removing and installing an M.2 SSD storage card on page 44)

●

Option port board (Option port board on page 57)

6. Disconnect all remaining cables connected to the system board, noting their location for reinstallation.

7. Remove the eight Torx T15 screws that secure the system board to the chassis (1).

8. Slide the system board toward the front of the computer to disengage the I/O panel (2), and then lift the

rear of the system board upward and away from the under the drive cage (3).

When reinstalling the system board, rst insert the I/O panel back into the slots in the rear of the chassis, and
then align the board with the chassis screw holes.

NOTE: When replacing the system board, you must change the chassis serial number in the BIOS.

64 Chapter 4 Removal and replacement procedures – small form factor (SFF) chassis

System board callouts

Sys Bd Label Color Component Sys Bd Label Color Component

PWRCPU White 4-pin processor power SPKR White Speaker

HSENSE White Hood sensor PSWD Green Clear system passwords

HLCK Black Hood lock SSD Black M.2 solid-state drive

CPUFAN White Processor fan PWR White 6-pin main power

DIMM4 Black Memory module PWRCMD White Power supply

DIMM3 White Memory module PROCESSOR Black Processor

DIMM2 Black Memory module USB-C Black USB-C connector

DIMM1 White Memory module X4PCIEXP Black Expansion card

BAT Black RTC battery X1PCIEXP2 Black Expansion card

SATA PWR Black Drives X1PCIEXP1 Black Expansion card

SATA0 Dark blue Hard drive X16PCIEXP White Expansion card

SATA1 Light blue Any SATA Device other

than primary hard drive

SATA3 Light blue Any SATA Device other

than primary hard drive

SD RDR Black Card reader COMM_DP Silver Option port

PS2/COMB Black Optional second serial/PS2

combo port

COMA Black Optional second serial port

CMOS Yellow Reset CMOS

System board 65

Changing from desktop to tower orientation

The Small Form Factor computer can be used in a tower orientation with an optional tower stand that can be
purchased from HP.

NOTE: To stabilize the computer in a tower orientation, HP recommends the use of the optional tower

stand.

1. Prepare the computer for disassembly (Preparation for disassembly on page 20).

2. Orient the computer so that its right side is facing down and place the computer in the optional stand.

3. Reconnect the power cord and any external devices, and then turn on the computer.

NOTE: Ensure at least 10.2 centimeters (4 inches) of space on all sides of the computer remains clear

and free of obstructions.

4. Lock any security devices that were disengaged when the access panel was removed.

66 Chapter 4 Removal and replacement procedures – small form factor (SFF) chassis

5 Computer Setup (F10) Utility

Computer Setup (F10) Utilities

Use Computer Setup (F10) Utility to do the following:

●

Change settings from the defaults or restore the settings to default values.

●

View the system conguration, including settings for processor, graphics, memory, audio, storage,
communications, and input devices.

●

Modify the boot order of bootable devices such as hard drives, optical drives, or USB ash media devices.

●

(Windows 7 only) Establish an Ownership Tag, the text of which is displayed each time the system is
turned on or restarted.

●

Enter the Asset Tag or property identication number assigned by the company to this computer.

●

Enable the power-on password prompt during system restarts (warm boots) as well as during power-on.

●

Establish an administrator password that controls access to the Computer Setup (F10) Utility and the
settings described in this section.

●

Establish minimum requirements for valid passwords, including length and required types of characters.

●

Secure integrated I/O functionality, including the serial, USB, or audio, or embedded NIC, so that they
cannot be used until they are unsecured.

●

Enable or disable dierent types of boot sources.

●

Congure features such as Secure Boot, power management, virtualization support, and language and
keyboard type used in Setup and POST.

●

Replicate the system setup by saving system conguration information on a USB device and restoring it
on one or more computers.

●

Enable or disable DriveLock security or securely erase a hard drive (when supported by drive).

Using Computer Setup (F10) Utilities

Computer Setup can be accessed only by turning the computer on or restarting the system. To access the
Computer Setup Utilities menu, complete the following steps:

1. Turn on or restart the computer.

2. Repeatedly press F10 when the monitor light turns green to access the utility.

You can also press Esc to a menu that allows you to access dierent options available at startup,
including the Computer Setup utility.

NOTE: If you do not press F10 at the appropriate time, you must restart the computer and again

repeatedly press F10 when the monitor light turns green to access the utility.

3. A choice of four headings appears in the Computer Setup Utilities menu: Main, Security, Advanced, and

UEFI Drivers.

NOTE: Selecting UEFI Drivers restarts the computer into the 3rd party option ROM management

application. You can access this application directly by pressing F3 during startup.

Computer Setup (F10) Utilities 67

4. Use the arrow (left and right) keys to select the appropriate heading. Use the arrow (up and down) keys

to select the option you want, then press Enter. To return to the Computer Setup Utilities menu, press

Esc.

5. To apply and save changes, select Main > Save Changes and Exit.

●

If you have made changes that you do not want applied, select Ignore Changes and Exit.

●

To restore settings from the Advanced and Main menus to original values, select Apply Factory
Defaults and Exit.

●

To restore settings from the Advanced and Main menus to those previously saved by Save Custom
Defaults

factory defaults are used.

NOTE: Settings in the Security menu are not modied by Apply Defaults. Those values are reset by

Restore Security Settings to Factory Defaults at the bottom of the Security menu.

NOTE: Not all settings shown in the following sections are available for all models

CAUTION: Do NOT turn the computer power OFF while the BIOS is saving the Computer Setup (F10) changes

because the settings could become corrupted. It is safe to turn o the computer only after exiting the F10
Setup screen.

, select Apply Custom Defaults and Exit. If no custom defaults have been saved, then

68 Chapter 5 Computer Setup (F10) Utility

Computer Setup–Main

NOTE: Support for specic Computer Setup options may vary depending on the hardware conguration.

Table 5-1 Computer Setup—Main

Option Description

System Information Lists all information in following list if Advanced System Information is selected. Lists smaller subset if

Basic System Information is selected.

●

Product name

●

Installed memory size

●

Processor

Processor type

●

Processor cache size (L1/L2/L3)

●

Processor speed

●

MicroCode revision

●

Processor stepping

●

DIMM size (for each installed module)

●

Firmware

System BIOS version

●

ME Firmware version (Intel only)

●

Video BIOS version

●

Reference code version

●

Super I/O Firmware version

●

USB Type-C controller(s) rmware version

●

Service

Born on date

●

Serial number

●

SKU number

●

UUID (Universally Unique Identier)

●

Asset tracking number

●

Feature byte

●

Build ID

●

Product family

●

System board ID

●

System board CT number

●

Communication

Integrated MAC Address

System Diagnostics If the hard drive has the HP Advanced Diagnostics installed, the application will launch. If HP Advanced

Diagnostics is not installed, then a basic version built into the BIOS will provide the capability to perform
the following functions:

●

Provide detailed system information

Computer Setup (F10) Utilities 69

Table 5-1 Computer Setup—Main (continued)

Option Description

●

Hardware subsystem tests

●

Component tests

●

Show test logs

●

Language selection

Update System BIOS Lets you update the system BIOS from www.hp.com or another network server, from a removable USB

drive, or from a le located on the hard drive.

Displays current BIOS version information.

●

‘Check HP.com for BIOS Updates’ or ‘Check the Network for BIOS Updates’

The string that appears here depends on the setting in ‘BIOS Update Preferences’. This selection
checks for the latest BIOS release revision on the netowrk and lets you choose whether to download
the BIOS image and update the computer.

NOTE: If MS Windows BitLocker Drive Encryption (BDE) is enabled, you must suspend BDE

temporarily before ashed. Be sure to obtain the BDE recovery password or recovery PIN before
suspending BDE. You can enable BDE after updating the BIOS.

●

BIOS Rollback Policy

Lets you select whether a minimum BIOS version can be allocated. If ‘Restricted rollback to older
BIOS’ is selected, ‘Minimum BIOS version’ becomes active. Select to enter the minimum BIOS version
that can be rolled back to.

■

Unrestricted rollback to older BIOS

■

Restricted rollback to older BIOS

●

Allow BIOS updates using a network

●

BIOS Update Preferences

Allows the administrator to select the source of network updates (www.hp.com or another network
server) and allows conguration of a periodic check for updates, including policies for:

■

Check for updates and prompt the user to accept or reject the update at that time

■

Check for updates and install all new versions

■

Check for updates and install only new versions marked important

●

Network Conguration Settings

Change Date and Time Allows you to set system time and date.

Set Machine Unique Data Allows you to set/view data that is unique to each machine such as feature byte, build ID, serial number,

SKU number, product family, and product name.

System IDs Lets you set the following values:

●

Asset Tracking Number

●

Ownership Tag

Replicated Setup Backup current settings to USB device

Saves system conguration to a formatted USB ash media device.

Restore current settings from USB device

Restores system conguration from a USB ash media device.

Save Custom Defaults Saves the current system conguration settings as the custom default set.

70 Chapter 5 Computer Setup (F10) Utility

Table 5-1 Computer Setup—Main (continued)

Option Description

Apply Custom Defaults
and Exit

Apply Factory Defaults
and Exit

Ignore Changes and Exit Exits Computer Setup without applying or saving any changes.

Save Changes and Exit Saves changes to current system conguration, exits Computer Setup, and reboots.

Suppress POST Errors Select to suppress most system messages during POST (Power-On Self Test).

Applies the custom default settings to the computer after rebooting. Does not apply to options in the
Security menu.

Restores the factory system conguration settings to the computer after rebooting. Does not apply to
options in the Security menu.

Computer Setup—Security

NOTE: Support for specic Computer Setup options may vary depending on the hardware conguration.

Table 5-2 Computer Setup—Security

Option Description

Set up BIOS
Administrator Password

Lets you set and enable a BIOS administrator password, which controls access to the following features:

●

●

●

●

●

●

NOTE: Creating a BIOS user disables the Fast Boot option.

NOTE: If the password is set, it is required to change Computer Setup options, update the BIOS, and

make changes to certain plug and play settings under Windows.

Setup Menu (F10)

3rd Party Option ROM Management (F3)

Update system ROM

WMI commands that change system settings

BIOS Conguration Utility (BCU)

Alternative power-on password

Change BIOS
Administrator Password

(This selection is active
only if a BIOS
administrator password is
set.)

Password Policies Let you set the guidelines for a valid password. Options include:

Lets you change the BIOS administrator password.

You must know the current password to be able to change it.

●

Password minimum length

●

Requires at least one symbol

●

Requires at least one number

●

Requires at least one upper case character

●

Requires at least one lower case character

●

Allow spaces

Clear Password Jumper

Select ‘Honor’ to allow or ‘Ignore’ to not allow the absence of the password jumper to clear the passwords
at boot up. Default is ‘Honor’.

Computer Setup (F10) Utilities 71

Table 5-2 Computer Setup—Security (continued)

Option Description

Security Conguration TPM Embedded Security

●

TPM Specication Version

Displays the current TPM version.

●

TPM Device

Lets you set the Trusted Platform Module as available or hidden.

●

TPM State

Select to enable the TPM.

●

ClearTPM

Select to reset the TPM to an unowned state. After the TPM is cleared, it is also turned o. To
temporarily suspend TPM operations, turn the TPM o instead of clearing it.

CAUTION: Clearing the TPM resets it to factory defaults and turns it o. You will lose all created

keys and data protected by those keys.

Utilities Hard Drive Utilities

●

Save/Restore MBR of System Hard Drive

NOTE: Windows 10 systems are generally not formatted to include an MBR. Instead they use GUID

Partition Table (GPT) format, which better supports large hard drives.

Enabling this feature will save the Master Boot Record (MBR) of the system hard drive. If the MBR
gets changed, the user will be prompted to restore the MBR. Default is disabled.

The MBR contains information needed to successfully boot from a disk and to access the data stored
on the disk. Master Boot Record Security may prevent unintentional or malicious changes to the
MBR, such as those caused by some viruses or by the incorrect use of certain disk utilities. It also
allows you to recover the "last known good" MBR, should changes to the MBR be detected when the
system is restarted.

NOTE: Most operating systems control access to the MBR of the current bootable disk; the BIOS

cannot prevent changes that may occur while the operating system is running.

Restores the backup Master Boot Record to the current bootable disk. Default is disabled.

Only appears if all of the following conditions are true:

–

MBR security is enabled

–

A backup copy of the MBR has been previously saved

–

The current bootable disk is the same disk from which the backup copy was saved

CAUTION: Restoring a previously saved MBR after a disk utility or operating system has modied

the MBR, may cause the data on the disk to become inaccessible. Only restore a previously saved
MBR if you are condent that the current bootable disk's MBR has been corrupted or infected with a
virus.

●

Save/Restore GPT of System Hard Drive

Enabling this feature will save the GUID Partition Table (GPT) of the system hard drive. If the GPT is
subsequently changed, the user is prompted to choose whether to restore GPT.

●

DriveLock

Allows you to assign or modify a master or user password for hard drives. When this feature is
enabled, the user is prompted to provide one of the DriveLock passwords during POST. If neither is
successfully entered, the hard drive will remain inaccessible until one of the passwords is
successfully provided during a subsequent cold-boot sequence.

72 Chapter 5 Computer Setup (F10) Utility

Table 5-2 Computer Setup—Security (continued)

Option Description

NOTE: This selection will only appear when at least one drive that supports the DriveLock feature

is attached to the system.

CAUTION: Be aware that these settings take place immediately. A save is not necessary.

CAUTION: Be sure to document the DriveLock password. Losing a DriveLock password will render a

drive permanently locked.

After you select a drive, the following options are available:

Set DriveLock Master Password. Sets the drive’s master password but does not enable DriveLock.

Enable DriveLock. Sets the drive’s user password and enables DriveLock.

●

Secure Erase

Lets you select a hard drive to completely erase.

Once a hard drive has been erased with a program that utilizes Secure Erase rmware commands, no
le recovery program, partition recovery program, or other data recovery method will be able to
extract data from the drive.

●

Allow OPAL Hard Drive SID Authentication

System Management
Command

Restore Security
Settings to Default

Allows authorized personnel to reset security settings during a service event. Default is enabled.

This action resets security devices, clears BIOS passwords (not including DriveLock), and restores settings
in the Security menu to factory defaults.

Computer Setup—Advanced

NOTE: Support for specic Computer Setup options may vary depending on the hardware conguration.

Table 5-3 Computer Setup—Advanced (for advanced users)

Option Heading

Display Language Lets you select the language of the menus in F10 Setup and the keyboard layout.

Scheduled Power-On This feature wakes the system up from a powered o state at a specied date and time.

Boot Options Select the devices that the computer can boot from, as well as other options, including:

●

●

●

●

●

●

Startup Menu Delay(sec). Enabling this feature will add a user-specied delay to the POST process.
One purpose for the delay is to provide additional time to activate hotkeys such as Esc for the
Startup Menu or F10 for Computer Setup.

Fast Boot. Default is enabled.

CD-ROM Boot. Default is enabled.

USB Storage Boot. Default is enabled.

Network (PXE) Boot. Default is enabled.

After Power Loss. Default is Power O.

■

Power o—causes the computer to remain powered o when power is restored.

■

Power on—causes the computer to power on automatically as soon as power is restored.

■

Previous state—causes the computer to power on automatically as soon as power is restored,
if it was on when power was lost.

Computer Setup (F10) Utilities 73

Table 5-3 Computer Setup—Advanced (for advanced users) (continued)

Option Heading

NOTE: If the system is congured to ‘Power On from Keyboard Ports’ (see Power Management

Options), then this setting is forced to ‘Power On’.

●

Audio Alerts During Boot. Default is enabled. When disabled, most audible beeps from errors,
warnings, and password prompts during boot up are suppressed.

●

Prompt on Memory Size Change. Default is enabled.

●

Prompt on Fixed Storage Change. Default is disabled.

●

UEFI Boot Order.

Default is enabled. Specify the order in which UEFI boot sources (such as a internal hard drive, USB
hard drive, USB optical drive, or internal optical drive) are checked for a bootable operating system
image.

UEFI boot sources always have precedence over legacy boot sources.

Secure Boot

Conguration

Congure Legacy Support and Secure Boot

Lets you turn o all legacy support on the computer, including booting to DOS, running legacy graphics
cards, booting to legacy devices, and so on.

Lets you make sure an operating system is legitimate before booting to it, making Windows resistant to
malicious modication from preboot to full OS booting, preventing rmware attacks. UEFI and Windows
Secure Boot only allow code signed by pre-approved digital certicates to run during the rmware and OS
boot process.

●

Legacy Support Enable and Secure Boot Disable

●

Legacy Support Disable and Secure Boot Enable

●

Legacy Support Disable and Secure Boot Disable

Default is ‘Legacy Support Disable and Secure Boot Disable’.

Secure Boot Key Management

Lets you manage the custom key settings.

Import Custom Secure Boot keys

Default is disabled.

Clear Secure Boot Keys

Lets you delete any previously loaded custom boot keys. Clearing keys will disable secure boot. Default is
disabled.

Reset Secure Boot keys to factory defaults

Default is disabled.

Enable MS UEFI CA key

Disabling this setting alters the Secure Boot key list to further restrict the allowed software
components. Set this option to ‘disable’ to support Device Guard.

System Options Turbo boost

Intel Turbo Boost Technology (TBT) automatically allows processor cores to run faster than the base
operating frequency if it is operating below power, current, and temperature specication limits. Default
is enabled.

Multi-processor

Use this option to disable multi-processor support under the operating system. Default is enabled.

Virtualization Technology (VTx) (Intel only)

74 Chapter 5 Computer Setup (F10) Utility

Table 5-3 Computer Setup—Advanced (for advanced users) (continued)

Option Heading

Controls the virtualization features of the processor. Changing this setting requires turning the computer
o and then back on. Default is disabled.

Virtualization Technology for Directed I/O (VTd) (Intel only)

Controls virtualization DMA remapping features of the chipset. Changing this setting requires turning the
computer o and then back on. Default is disabled.

PCI Express Slot x (enable/disable)

Lets you disable individual expansion slots. Default is enabled.

M.2 WLAN/BT

Lets you disable the wireless module slot. Default is enabled.

M.2 SSD

Lets you disable the M.2 solid-state drive slot. Default is enabled.

Allow PCIe/PCI SERR# Interrupt (enable/disable)

Allows PCI devices to report PCI/PCIe System Error signals, such as address parity errors, data parity
errors, and critical errors other than parity. Default is enabled.

Power Button Override (disable/4 sec/15 sec)

Lets you disable or enable and select the number of seconds you have to hold down the power button for
it to force the system to power o. Default is ‘4 sec’.

Built-In Device Options Embedded LAN Controller

Select to show the device in the operating system. Default is enabled.

Wake On LAN

Lets you either disable the Wake On LAN feature, or congure where the computer boots, including the
network or hard drive. Default is Boot to Network.

Dust Filter

Select to enable the Dust Filter replacement reminder, which can be set for 15, 30, 60, 90, 120, or 180
days. The reminder will show during POST after the reminder timer has expired.

Video Memory Size

Use this option to manage graphics memory allocation. The value you choose is allocated permanently to
graphics and is unavailable to the operating system.

Audio Device

Select to show the device in the operating system. Default is enabled.

Internal Speakers (does not aect external speakers)

Clear to disable the chassis speaker or speakers. This function is applicable to normal audio playback in
the operating system and does not aect the error or warning beeps during POST. Default is enabled.

Increase Idle Fan Speed(%)

Sets idle fan speed percentage. This setting only changes the minimum fan speed. The fan is still
automatically controlled.

Port Options Serial Port B

Lets you disable the port. Default is enabled.

I/O Address B

Lets you specify the address. Default is enabled.

Computer Setup (F10) Utilities 75

Table 5-3 Computer Setup—Advanced (for advanced users) (continued)

Option Heading

Interrupt B

Lets you specify the address. Default is enabled.

Lets you disable the following ports (default is enabled):

●

SATA connectors

●

Front USB ports

●

Rear USB ports

●

USB Legacy Port Charging

Enables USB charging port capability when the system is in hibernate or shutdown state.

●

Front USB Type-C Downstream Charging

Enables USB charging port capability when the system is in hibernate or shutdown state.

Restrict USB Devices

Specify the following categories of USB devices to enable:

●

Allow all USB devices (default)

●

Allow only keyboard and mouse

●

Allow all but storage devices and hubs.

When some devices are restricted, the system will disable USB ports that do not meet the allowed
criteria. This feature is usually combined with similar policies within the operating system since USB
devices can be moved to dierent ports. The ports disabled by the BIOS will remain disabled until the
system is restarted.

USB Type-C Controller Firmware Update

Default is enabled.

Option ROM Launch
Policy

Power Management
Options

These policies control whether Legacy Option ROMs or UEFI drivers are loaded. Default is ‘All legacy’ for
Windows 7 and other non-Windows congurations. Default is ‘All UEFI’ for Windows 10 or later.

Congure Option ROM Launch Policy

●

All legacy

●

All UEFI

●

All UEFI except video

Runtime Power Management (enable/disable)

Allows certain operating systems to reduce processor voltage and frequency when the current software
load does not require the full capabilities of the processor. Default is enabled.

Extended Idle Power States (enable/disable)

Allows certain operating systems to decrease the processors power consumption when the processor is
idle. Default is enabled.

S5 Maximum Power Savings (enable/disable)

Enabling this feature reduces the power of the system as much as possible in the S5 state. Power is
removed from the wake up circuitry, the expansion slots, and any management features while in S5.
Default is disabled.

SATA Power Management (enable/disable)

Enables or disables SATA bus and/or device power management. Default is enabled.

76 Chapter 5 Computer Setup (F10) Utility

Table 5-3 Computer Setup—Advanced (for advanced users) (continued)

Option Heading

PCI Express Power Management (enable/disable)

Enabling this option permits the PCI Express links to use Active Power State Management (ASPM) to enter
lower power states while not in use. Default is enabled.

Unique Sleep State Blink Rates (enable/disable)

This feature is designed to provide a visual indication of what sleep state the system is in. Each sleep
state has a unique blink pattern. Default is disabled.

NOTE: A normal shutdown goes to the S4 state for Windows 10 or later.

S0 (On) = Solid white LED.

S3 (Stand By)= 3 blinks at 1Hz (50% duty cycle) followed by a pause of 2 seconds (white LED) — repeated
cycles of 3 blinks and a pause.

S4 (Hibernation)= 4 blinks at 1Hz (50% duty cycle) followed by a pause of 2 seconds (white LED) —
repeated cycles of 4 blinks and a pause.

S5 (Soft O) = LED is o.

Power On from Keyboard Ports (enable/disable)

When enabled, this feature allows a key press to power on the system when it is o (S5 state). If using a
USB keyboard, it must be plugged into one of the rear ports labeled with the keyboard icon. Default is
disabled.

Remote Management
Options

Active Management (AMT) (Intel only) (enable/disable). Default is enabled.

Allows you to discover, repair, and protect networked computing devices.

USB Key Provisioning Support (enable/disable) Default is disabled.

USB Redirection Support (enable/disable). Default is enabled.

USB redirection allows USB devices plugged into a client computer to be transparently redirected to the
guest operating system.

Uncongure AMT on next boot (Do Not Apply/Apply). Default is ‘Do Not Apply’.

SOL Terminal Emulation Mode (ANSI / VT100). Default is ANSI.

SOL terminal emulation mode is only activated during remote AMT redirection operations. The emulation
options allow administrators to select which mode works best with their console.

Show Uncongure ME Conrmation Prompt (enable/disable). Default is enabled.

Verbose Boot Messages (enable/disable). Default is enabled.

Verbose boot shows additional logging information during the boot. mainly for debugging if something
goes wrong during bootup.

Watchdog Timer (enable/disable). Default is enabled.

Allows you to set amount of time for a operating system and BIOS watchdog alert to be sent if the timers
are not deactivated. BIOS watchdog is deactivated by BIOS and would indicate that a halt occurred during
execution if the alert is sent to the management console. An operating system alert is deactivated by the
operating system image and would indicate that a hang occurred during its initialization.

●

OS Watchdog Timer (min.) – (5/10/15/20/25). Default is 5 min.

●

BIOS Watchdog Timer (min.) – (5/10/15/20/25). Default is 5 min.

CIRA Timeout (min.) (1/2/3/4/Never)

CIRA is Customer Initiated Remote Assistance, an Intel service to help users employing Active
Management Technology (AMT).

Computer Setup (F10) Utilities 77

Computer Setup—UEFI Drivers

Lets you restart the computer into the 3rd Party Option ROM Management application. You can start this
application directly by pressing F3 during startup.

Recovering the Conguration Settings

This method of recovery requires that you rst perform the Save to Removable Media command with the
Computer Setup (F10) Utility before Restore is needed. (See Computer Setup–Main on page 69 in the
Computer Setup—File table.)

The Save to Removable Media option creates a le named HPSETUP.TXT on an inserted USB ash media
device. This le can be edited to change the settings on Restore. An asterisk (*) marks the selected option for
a setting.

NOTE: It is recommended that you save any modied computer conguration settings to a USB ash media

device and save the device for possible future use.

To restore the conguration, insert the USB ash media device with the saved conguration and perform the
Restore from Removable Media command with the Computer Setup (F10) Utility. (See Computer Setup–Main

on page 69 in the Computer Setup—File table.)

78 Chapter 5 Computer Setup (F10) Utility

6 Troubleshooting without diagnostics

This chapter provides information on how to identify and correct minor problems, such as USB devices, hard
drive, optical drive, graphics, audio, memory, and software problems. If you encounter problems with the
computer, refer to the tables in this chapter for probable causes and recommended solutions.

NOTE: For information on specic error messages that may appear on the screen during Power-On Self-Test

(POST) at startup, refer to POST error messages and diagnostic front panel LEDs and audible codes

on page 110.

Safety and comfort

WARNING! Misuse of the computer or failure to establish a safe and comfortable work environment may

result in discomfort or serious injury. Refer to the Safety & Comfort Guide at http://www.hp.com/ergo for
more information on choosing a workspace and creating a safe and comfortable work environment. For more
information, refer to the Safety & Regulatory Information guide.

Before you call for technical support

If you are having problems with the computer, try the appropriate solutions below to try to isolate the exact
problem before calling for technical support.

●

Run the HP diagnostic tool.

●

Run the hard drive self-test in Computer Setup. Refer to Computer Setup (F10) Utility on page 67 for
more information.

●

Check the Power LED on the front of the computer to see if it is ashing red. The ashing lights are error
codes that will help you diagnose the problem. Refer to POST error messages and diagnostic front panel

LEDs and audible codes on page 110 for more information.

●

If the screen is blank, plug the monitor into a dierent video port on the computer if one is available. Or,
replace the monitor with a monitor that you know is functioning properly.

●

If you are working on a network, plug another computer with a dierent cable into the network
connection. There may be a problem with the network plug or cable.

●

If you recently added new hardware, remove the hardware and see if the computer functions properly.

●

If you recently installed new software, uninstall the software and see if the computer functions properly.

●

Boot the computer to the Safe Mode to see if it will boot without all of the drivers loaded. When booting
the operating system, use “Last Known Conguration.”

●

Refer to the comprehensive online technical support at http://www.hp.com/support.

●

Refer to Helpful hints on page 80 in this guide.

To assist you in resolving problems online, HP Instant Support Professional Edition provides you with self­solve diagnostics. If you need to contact HP support, use HP Instant Support Professional Edition's online chat
feature. Access HP Instant Support Professional Edition at: http://www.hp.com/go/ispe.

Access the Business Support Center (BSC) at http://www.hp.com/go/bizsupport for the latest online support
information, software and drivers, proactive notication, and worldwide community of peers and HP experts.

Safety and comfort 79

If it becomes necessary to call for technical assistance, be prepared to do the following to ensure that your
service call is handled properly:

●

Be in front of your computer when you call.

●

Write down the computer serial number, product ID number, and monitor serial number before calling.

●

Spend time troubleshooting the problem with the service technician.

●

Remove any hardware that was recently added to your system.

●

Remove any software that was recently installed.

●

Restore the system from the Recovery Disc Set that you created or restore the system to its original
factory condition in System Software Requirement Disks (SSRD).

CAUTION: Restoring the system will erase all data on the hard drive. Be sure to back up all data les before

running the restore process.

NOTE: For sales information and warranty upgrades (Care Packs), call your local authorized service provider

or dealer.

Helpful hints

If you encounter problems with the computer, monitor, or software, see the following list of general
suggestions before taking further action:

●

Check that the computer and monitor are plugged into a working electrical outlet.

●

Check that the voltage select switch (some models) is set to the appropriate voltage for your region
(115V or 230V).

●

Check that the computer is turned on and the white power light is on.

●

Check that the monitor is turned on and the green monitor light is on.

●

Check the Power LED on the front of the computer to see if it is ashing red. The ashing lights are error
codes that will help you diagnose the problem. Refer to POST error messages and diagnostic front panel

LEDs and audible codes on page 110 for more information.

●

Turn up the brightness and contrast controls of the monitor if the monitor is dim.

●

Press and hold any key. If the system beeps, then the keyboard should be operating correctly.

●

Check all cable connections for loose connections or incorrect connections.

●

Wake the computer by pressing any key on the keyboard or pressing the power button. If the system
remains in suspend mode, shut down the computer by pressing and holding the power button for at
least four seconds then press the power button again to restart the computer. If the system will not shut
down, unplug the power cord, wait a few seconds, then plug it in again. The computer will restart if it is
set to power on automatically as soon as power is restored in Computer Setup. If it does not restart,
press the power button to start the computer.

●

Recongure the computer after installing a non-plug and play expansion board or other option. See

Solving Hardware Installation Problems on page 98 for instructions.

●

Be sure that all the needed device drivers have been installed. For example, if you are using a printer,
you need a driver for that model printer.

●

Remove all bootable media (CD/DVD or USB device) from the system before turning it on.

80 Chapter 6 Troubleshooting without diagnostics

●

If you have installed an operating system other than the factory-installed operating system, check to be
sure that it is supported on the system.

●

If the system has multiple video sources (embedded, PCI, or PCI-Express adapters) installed (embedded
video on some models only) and a single monitor, the monitor must be plugged into the monitor
connector on the source selected as the primary VGA adapter. During boot, the other monitor connectors
are disabled and if the monitor is connected into these ports, the monitor will not function. You can
select which source will be the default VGA source in Computer Setup.

CAUTION: When the computer is plugged into an AC power source, there is always voltage applied to the

system board. You must disconnect the power cord from the power source before opening the computer to
prevent system board or component damage.

Solving general problems

You may be able to easily resolve the general problems described in this section. If a problem persists and you
are unable to resolve it yourself or if you feel uncomfortable about performing the operation, contact an
authorized dealer or reseller.

WARNING! When the computer is plugged into an AC power source, voltage is always applied to the system

board. To reduce the risk of personal injury from electrical shock and/or hot surfaces, be sure to disconnect
the power cord from the wall outlet and allow the internal system components to cool before touching.

Cannot access the Computer Setup (F10) Utility when booting the computer.

Cause Solution

The Computer Setup (F10) Utility is set to “fast boot” causing the
F10 access screen to display too briey when booting the
computer.

Computer appears locked up and will not turn o when the power button is pressed.

Cause Solution

Software control of the power switch is not functional. 1. Press and hold the power button for at least four seconds

Computer will not respond to keyboard or mouse.

Cause Solution

Computer is in Sleep state. To resume from Sleep state, press the power button.

Before turning on the computer, press and hold F10. Turn on the
computer and continue to hold F10 until the Computer Setup
(F10) Utility is displayed.

- or –

Follow the Windows instructions for rebooting the computer into
the Computer Setup (F10) Utility.

until the computer turns o.

2. Disconnect the power cord from the electrical outlet.

CAUTION: When attempting to resume from Sleep state, do not

hold down the power button for more than four seconds.
Otherwise, the computer will shut down and you will lose any
unsaved data.

System has locked up. Restart computer.

Solving general problems 81

Computer date and time display is incorrect.

Cause Solution

RTC (real-time clock) battery may need to be replaced.

NOTE: Connecting the computer to a live AC outlet prolongs the

life of the RTC battery.

There is no sound or sound volume is too low.

Cause Solution

System volume may be set low or muted. 1. Check the Computer Setup settings to make sure the

Reset the date and time under Control Panel (Computer Setup
can also be used to update the RTC date and time). If the problem
persists, replace the RTC battery. See the Removal and
Replacement section for instructions on installing a new battery,
or contact an authorized dealer or reseller for RTC battery
replacement.

To access Control Panel in Windows 7, select Start, and then
select Control Panel.

To access Control Panel in Windows 10, type control panel in
the taskbar search box, and then select Control Panel.

internal system speaker is not muted (this setting does not
aect the external speakers).

2. Make sure the external speakers are properly connected and

powered on and that the speakers' volume control is set
correctly.

3. Use the system volume control available in the operating

system to make sure the speakers are not muted or to
increase the volume.

Cannot remove computer cover or access panel.

Cause Solution

Smart Cover Lock, featured on some computers, is locked. Unlock the Smart Cover Lock using Computer Setup.

In case of forgotten password, power loss, or computer
malfunction, you must manually disable the Smart Cover lock . A
key to unlock the Smart Cover Lock is not available from HP. Keys
are typically available from a hardware store.

Poor performance.

Cause Solution

Processor is too hot. 1. Make sure airow to the computer is not blocked. Leave a

10.2-cm (4-inch) clearance on all vented sides of the
computer and above the monitor to permit the required

airow.

2. Make sure fans are connected and working properly (some

fans only operate when needed).

3. Make sure the processor heat sink is installed properly.

Hard drive is full. Transfer data from the hard drive to create more space on the

hard drive.

82 Chapter 6 Troubleshooting without diagnostics

Poor performance.

Cause Solution

Low on memory. Add more memory.

Hard drive fragmented. Defragment hard drive.

Program previously accessed did not release reserved memory
back to the system.

Virus resident on the hard drive. Run virus protection program.

Too many applications running. 1. Close unnecessary applications to free up memory.

Restart the computer.

2. Add more memory.

3. Some applications run in the background and can be closed

by right-clicking on their corresponding icons in the task
tray. To prevent these applications from launching at
startup:

In Windows 7:

a. Go to Start > All Programs > Accessories > Run

b. Type msconfig, and then press Enter.

c. On the Startup tab of the System Conguration Utility,

clear applications that you do not want to launch
automatically, and the click OK.

In Windows 10:

a. Type msconfig in the taskbar search box, and then

select mscong.

b. On the Startup tab of the System Conguration Utility,

click Open Task Manager.

c. Select applications that you do not want to launch

automatically, and the click Disable.

Some software applications, especially games, are stressful on
the graphics subsystem.

Cause unknown. Restart the computer.

Computer powered o automatically and the Power LED ashes red four times and then white two times.

Cause Solution

Processor thermal protection activated:

A fan may be blocked or not turning.

OR

The heat sink is not properly attached to the processor.

1. Lower the display resolution for the current application or

consult the documentation that came with the application
for suggestions on how to improve performance by
adjusting parameters in the application.

2. Add more memory.

3. Upgrade the graphics solution.

1. Ensure that the computer air vents are not blocked and the

processor cooling fan is running.

2. Open the access panel, press the power button, and see if

the processor fan (or other system fan) spins. If the fan does
not spin, make sure the fan cable is plugged onto the system
board header.

3. If fan a plugged in and not spinning, replace it.

Solving general problems 83

System does not power on and the LEDs on the front of the computer are not ashing.

Cause Solution

System unable to power on. Press and hold the power button for less than 4 seconds. If the

hard drive LED turns white, then:

1. If equipped with a voltage selector, check that the voltage

selector (located on the rear of the power supply) is set to
the appropriate voltage. Proper voltage setting depends on
your region.

2. Remove the expansion cards one at a time until the 5V_aux

light on the system board turns on.

3. Replace the system board.

OR

Press and hold the power button for less than 4 seconds. If the
hard drive LED does not turn on white then:

1. Check that the unit is plugged into a working AC outlet.

2. Open the access panel and check that the power button

cable is properly connected to the system board.

3. Check that the power supply cables are properly connected

to the system board.

4. Check to see if the 5V_aux light on the system board is

turned on. If it is turned on, then replace the power button
assembly.

5. If the 5V_aux light on the system board is o, then replace

the power supply.

6. Replace the system board.

84 Chapter 6 Troubleshooting without diagnostics

Solving power problems

Common causes and solutions for power problems are listed in the following table.

Power supply shuts down intermittently.

Cause Solution

If equipped with a voltage selector, voltage selector switch on
rear of computer chassis (some models) not switched to correct
line voltage (115V or 230V).

Power supply will not turn on because of internal power supply
fault.

Computer powered o automatically and the Power LED ashes Red two times, once every second, followed by a two second
pause, and the computer beeps two times. (Beeps stop after fth iteration but LEDs continue ashing.)

Computer powered o automatically and the Power LED ashes red four times and then white two times.

Cause Solution

Processor thermal protection activated:

A fan may be blocked or not turning.

OR

The heat sink is not properly attached to the processor.

Power LED ashes Red four times, once every second, followed by a two second pause, and the computer beeps four times. (Beeps
stop after fth iteration but LEDs continue ashing.)

Computer powered o automatically and the Power LED ashes red three times and then white four times.

Select the proper AC voltage using the selector switch.

Replace the power supply.

1. Ensure that the computer air vents are not blocked and the

processor cooling fan is running.

2. Open the access panel, press the power button, and see if

the processor fan (or other system fan) spins. If the fan does
not spin, make sure the fan cable is plugged onto the system
board header.

3. If fan a plugged in and not spinning, replace it.

Cause Solution

Power failure (power supply is overloaded). 1. If equipped with a voltage selector, check that the voltage

selector, located on the rear of the power supply (some
models), is set to the appropriate voltage. Proper voltage
setting depends on your region.

2. Open the access panel and ensure the power supply cable is

seated into the connector on the system board.

3. Check if a device is causing the problem by removing ALL

attached devices (such as hard drives or optical drives and
expansion cards). Power on the system. If the system enters
POST, then power o and replace one device at a time and
repeat this procedure until failure occurs. Replace the device
that is causing the failure. Continue adding devices one at a
time to ensure all devices are functioning properly.

4. Replace the power supply.

5. Replace the system board.

Solving power problems 85

Solving hard drive problems

Hard drive error occurs.

Cause Solution

Hard disk has bad sectors or has failed. 1. In Windows 7, click Start, click Computer, and right-click on

Disk transaction problem.

Cause Solution

a drive. Select Properties, and then select the Tools tab.
Under Error-checking click Check Now.

In Windows 10, type file in the taskbar search box, and
then select File Explorer from the list of applications. In the
left column, expand This PC, right-click on a drive, select

Properties, and then select the Tools tab. Under Error
checking click Check.

2. Use a utility to locate and block usage of bad sectors. If

necessary, reformat the hard disk.

Either the directory structure is bad or there is a problem with a

le.

Drive not found (identied).

Cause Solution

Cable could be loose. Check cable connections.

The system may not have automatically recognized a newly
installed device.

The device is attached to a SATA port that has been hidden in
Computer Setup.

In Windows 7, click Start, expand Computer, and right-click on a
drive. Select Properties, and then select the Tools tab. Under
Error-checking click Check Now.

In Windows 10, type file in the taskbar search box, and then
select File Explorer from the list of applications. In the left
column, expand This PC, right-click on a drive, select Properties,
and then select the Tools tab. Under Error checking click Check.

See reconguration directions in the Solving Hardware

Installation Problems on page 98 section. If the system still

does not recognize the new device, check to see if the device is
listed within Computer Setup. If it is listed, the probable cause is a
driver problem. If it is not listed, the probable cause is a hardware
problem.

If this is a newly installed drive, run the Computer Setup utility
and try adding a POST delay under Advanced > Boot Options.

Run the Computer Setup utility and ensure Device Available is
selected for the device's SATA port in Advanced > Port Options.

Drive responds slowly immediately after power-up. Run Computer Setup and increase the POST Delay in Advanced >

86 Chapter 6 Troubleshooting without diagnostics

Boot Options.

Nonsystem disk/NTLDR missing message.

Cause Solution

The system is trying to start from the hard drive but the hard
drive may have been damaged.

System les missing or not properly installed. 1. Insert bootable media and restart the computer.

Hard drive boot has been disabled in Computer Setup. Run the Computer Setup utility and enable the hard drive entry in

Bootable hard drive is not attached as rst in a multi-hard drive

conguration.

Bootable hard drive is not listed rst in the Boot Order. Run the Computer Setup utility and select Advanced > Boot

Computer will not boot from hard drive.

Cause Solution

The device is attached to a SATA port that has been hidden in
Computer Setup.

▲ Perform Drive Protection System (DPS) testing in system

ROM.

2. Boot to the windows installation media and select the

recovery option. If only a restore kit is available, then select
the File Backup Program option, and then restore the
system.

3. Install system les for the appropriate operating system.

the Advanced > Boot Options list.

If attempting to boot from a hard drive, ensure it is attached to
the system board dark blue SATA connector.

Options and ensure the bootable hard drive is listed immediately
under the Hard Drive entry.

1. Check SATA cable connections.

2. Run the Computer Setup utility and ensure Device Available

is selected for the device's SATA port in Advanced > Port
Options.

Boot order is not correct. Run the Computer Setup utility and change boot sequence in

Advanced > Boot Options.

Hard drive is damaged. Observe if the front panel Power LED is blinking RED and if any

beeps are heard. See POST error messages and diagnostic front

panel LEDs and audible codes on page 110 to determine possible

causes for the blinking red and beep codes.

See the Worldwide Limited Warranty for terms and conditions.

Computer seems to be locked up.

Cause Solution

Program in use has stopped responding to commands. 1. Use the task manager to close programs that do not

respond.

2. Attempt the normal Windows “Shut Down” procedure. If this

fails, press the power button for four or more seconds to
turn o the power. To restart the computer, press the power
button again.

Solving hard drive problems 87

Solving media card reader problems

Media card will not work in a digital camera after formatting it in Windows.

Cause Solution

By default, Windows will format any media card with a capacity
greater than 32MB with the FAT32 format. Some digital cameras
use the FAT (FAT16 & FAT12) format and can not operate with a
FAT32 formatted card.

A write-protected or locked error occurs when attempting to write to the media card.

Cause Solution

Media card is locked. Locking the media card is a safety feature
that prevents writing to and deleting from an SD/Memory
Stick/PRO card.

Can not write to the media card.

Cause Solution

The media card is a read-only memory (ROM) card. Check the manufacturer’s documentation included with your card

Media card is locked. Locking the media card is a safety feature
that prevents writing to and deleting from an SD/Memory
Stick/PRO card.

Either format the media card in the digital camera or select FAT
le system to format the media card in a computer with Windows.

If using an SD card, make sure that the lock tab located on the
right of the SD card is not in the locked position. If using a Memory
Stick/PRO card, make sure that the lock tab located on the bottom
of the Memory Stick/PRO card is not in the locked position.

to see if it writable. Refer to the previous section for a list of
compatible cards.

If using an SD card, make sure that the lock tab located on the
right of the SD card is not in the locked position. If using a Memory
Stick/PRO card, make sure that the lock tab located on the bottom
of the Memory Stick/PRO card is not in the locked position.

Unable to access data on the media card after inserting it into a slot.

Cause Solution

The media card is not inserted properly, is inserted in the wrong
slot, or is not supported.

Do not know how to remove a media card correctly.

Cause Solution

The computer’s software is used to safely eject the card. In Windows 7, click Start, select Computer, right-click on the

88 Chapter 6 Troubleshooting without diagnostics

Ensure that the card is inserted properly with the gold contact on
the correct side. The green LED will light if inserted properly.

corresponding drive icon, and then select Eject. Pull the card out
of the slot.

In Windows 10, type file in the taskbar search box, and then
select File Explorer from the list of applications. In the left
column, expand This PC, right-click on the corresponding drive
icon, and then select Eject. Pull the card out of the slot.

NOTE: Never remove the card when the green LED is ashing

After installing the media card reader and booting to Windows, the reader and the inserted cards are not recognized by the
computer.

Cause Solution

The operating system needs time to recognize the device if the
reader was just installed into the computer and you are turning
the PC on for the rst time.

After inserting a media card in the reader, the computer attempts to boot from the media card.

Cause Solution

The inserted media card has boot capability. 1. If you do not want to boot from the media card, remove it

Solving display problems

If you encounter display problems, see the documentation that came with the monitor and to the common
causes and solutions listed in the following table.

Blank screen (no video).

Cause Solution

Wait a few seconds so that the operating system can recognize
the reader and the available ports, and then recognize the media
inserted in the reader.

during boot or do not select the option to boot from the
inserted media card during the boot process.

2. During POST (Power On Self-Test), press F9 to modify the

boot menu.

3. Change the boot sequence in F10 Computer Setup.

Monitor is not turned on and the monitor light is not on. Turn on the monitor and check that the monitor light is on.

Bad monitor. Try a dierent monitor.

The cable connections are not correct. Check the cable connection from the monitor to the computer and

to the electrical outlet.

You may have a screen blanking utility installed or energy saver
features are enabled.

System ROM is corrupted; system is running in Boot Block
Emergency Recovery Mode (indicated by eight beeps).

You are using a xed-sync monitor and it will not sync at the
resolution chosen.

Computer is in Sleep state. Press the power button to resume from Sleep state.

Monitor cable is plugged into the wrong connector. Systems may have a monitor connection on both the

Monitor settings in the computer are not compatible with the
monitor.

Press any key or click the mouse button and type your password
(if set).

Reash the system ROM with the latest BIOS image.

Be sure that the monitor can accept the same horizontal scan rate
as the resolution chosen.

CAUTION: When attempting to resume from Sleep state, do not

hold down the power button for more than four seconds.
Otherwise, the computer will shut down and you will lose any
unsaved data.

motherboard or an add-in card. Try moving the monitor
connection to a dierent connector on the back of the computer

1. In Control Panel, select Category from the View by list, then

under Appearance and Personalization, select Adjust
screen resolution.

Solving display problems 89

Blank screen (no video).

Cause Solution

To access Control Panel in Windows 7, click Start, and then
select Control Panel.

To access Control Panel in Windows 10, type control

panel in the taskbar search box, and then select Control
Panel from the list of applications.

2. Expand the Resolution box, and then use the sliding control

to reset the resolution.

Monitor is congured to use an input that is not active. Use the monitor's on-screen menu controls to select the input

that is being driven by the system. Refer to the monitor's user
documentation for more information on the on-screen controls
and settings.

Blank screen and the power LED ashes Red ve times, once every second, followed by a two second pause, and the computer
beeps ve times. (Beeps stop after fth iteration but LEDs continue ashing.)

Cause Solution

Pre-video memory error. 1. Reseat DIMMs. Power on the system.

2. Replace DIMMs one at a time to isolate the faulty module.

3. Replace third-party memory with HP memory.

4. Replace the system board.

Blank screen and the power LED ashes Red six times, once every second, followed by a two second pause, and the computer
beeps six times. (Beeps stop after fth iteration but LEDs continue ashing.)

Cause Solution

Pre-video graphics error. For systems with a graphics card:

1. Reseat the graphics card (if applicable). Power on the

system.

2. Replace the graphics card (if applicable).

3. Replace the system board.

For systems with integrated graphics, replace the system board.

Blank screen and the power LED ashes Red seven times, once every second, followed by a two second pause, and the computer
beeps seven times. (Beeps stop after fth iteration but LEDs continue ashing.)

Cause Solution

System board failure (ROM detected failure prior to video). Replace the system board.

90 Chapter 6 Troubleshooting without diagnostics

Monitor does not function properly when used with energy saver features.

Cause Solution

Monitor without energy saver capabilities is being used with
energy saver features enabled.

Dim characters.

Cause Solution

The brightness and contrast controls are not set properly. Adjust the monitor brightness and contrast controls.

Cables are not properly connected. Check that the graphics cable is securely connected to the

Blurry video or requested resolution cannot be set.

Cause Solution

If the graphics controller was upgraded, the correct graphics
drivers may not be loaded.

Monitor is not capable of displaying requested resolution. Change requested resolution.

Graphics card is bad. Replace the graphics card.

Disable monitor energy saver feature.

graphics card (if applicable) or video connector and the monitor.

Install the video drivers included in the upgrade kit.

The picture is broken up, rolls, jitters, or ashes.

Cause Solution

The monitor connections may be incomplete or the monitor may
be incorrectly adjusted.

Monitor needs to be degaussed. Degauss the monitor. Refer to the documentation that came with

Image is not centered.

Cause Solution

Position may need adjustment. Press the monitor's Menu button to access the OSD menu. Select

1. Be sure the monitor cable is securely connected to the

computer.

2. In a two-monitor system or if another monitor is in close

proximity, be sure the monitors are not interfering with each
other’s electromagnetic eld by moving them apart.

3. Fluorescent lights or fans may be too close to the monitor.

the monitor for instructions.

ImageControl/ Horizontal Position or Vertical Position to adjust
the horizontal or vertical position of the image.

Solving display problems 91

“No Connection, Check Signal Cable” displays on screen.

Cause Solution

Monitor video cable is disconnected. Connect the video cable between the monitor and computer.

CAUTION: Ensure that the computer power is o while

connecting the video cable.

“Out of Range” displays on screen.

Cause Solution

Video resolution and refresh rate are set higher than what the
monitor supports.

Restart the computer and enter Safe Mode. Change the settings to
a supported setting then restart the computer so that the new
settings take eect.

To enter Safe Mode in Windows 7:

1. Restart the computer.

2. Press and hold the F8 key as your computer restarts, before

the Windows logo appears. If the Windows logo appears,
you must restart the computer and try again.

3. On the Advanced Boot Options screen, use the arrow keys to

highlight the safe mode option you want, and then press

Enter.

4. Log on to your computer with a user account that has

administrator rights.

When your computer is in safe mode, Safe Mode displays in
the corners of your monitor. To exit safe mode, restart your
computer and let Windows start normally.

To enter Safe Mode in Windows 10:

1. Log into the computer using an Administrator account.

2. Type msconfig in the taskbar search box, and then select

mscong from the list of applications.

3. Click the Boot tab, select Safe boot and then click OK.

High pitched noise coming from inside a at panel monitor.

Cause Solution

Brightness and/or contrast settings are too high. Lower brightness and/or contrast settings.

Fuzzy focus; streaking, ghosting, or shadowing eects; horizontal scrolling lines; faint vertical bars; or unable to center the
picture on the screen (at panel monitors using an analog VGA input connection only).

Cause Solution

Flat panel monitor’s internal digital conversion circuits may be
unable to correctly interpret the output synchronization of the
graphics card.

92 Chapter 6 Troubleshooting without diagnostics

1. Select the monitor’s Auto-Adjustment option in the

monitor’s on-screen display menu.

2. Manually synchronize the Clock and Clock Phase on-screen

display functions. To download a SoftPaq that will assist you