HP Envy 15-1270 User Manual
HP ENVY 15 User Guide
© Copyright 2010 Hewlett-Packard
Development Company, L.P.
Intel is a trademark of Intel Corporation in the
U.S. and other countries. Microsoft and
Windows are U.S. registered trademarks of
Microsoft Corporation. Bluetooth is a
trademark owned by its proprietor and used
by Hewlett-Packard Company under license.
SD Logo is a trademark of its proprietor.
The information contained herein is subject
to change without notice. The only
warranties for HP products and services are
set forth in the express warranty statements
accompanying such products and services.
Nothing herein should be construed as
constituting an additional warranty. HP shall
not be liable for technical or editorial errors
or omissions contained herein.
First Edition: April 2010
Document Part Number: 602792-001
Product notice
This user guide describes features that are
common to most models. Some features
may not be available on your computer.
Safety warning notice
WARNING! To reduce the possibility of heat-related injuries or of overheating the computer, do not
place the computer directly on your lap or obstruct the computer air vents. Use the computer only on a
hard, flat surface. Do not allow another hard surface, such as an adjoining optional printer, or a soft
surface, such as pillows or rugs or clothing, to block airflow. Also, do not allow the AC adapter to contact
the skin or a soft surface, such as pillows or rugs or clothing, during operation. The computer and the
AC adapter comply with the user-accessible surface temperature limits defined by the International
Standard for Safety of Information Technology Equipment (IEC 60950).
iii
iv Safety warning notice
Table of contents
1 Notebook tour
Identifying hardware ............................................................................................................................. 1
Components ......................................................................................................................................... 2
Top components .................................................................................................................. 2
TouchPad ............................................................................................................ 2
Lights ................................................................................................................... 3
Button ................................................................................................................. 4
Keys .................................................................................................................... 5
Front components ................................................................................................................ 6
Right-side components ........................................................................................................ 6
Left-side components .......................................................................................................... 7
Bottom components ............................................................................................................. 8
Display components ............................................................................................................ 9
Wireless antennas ............................................................................................................... 9
Additional hardware components ...................................................................................... 10
Labels ................................................................................................................................................. 11
2 Using HP QuickWeb (select models only)
3 Wireless and local area network
Using wireless devices ....................................................................................................................... 13
Identifying wireless and network status icons .................................................................... 13
Using the wireless controls ................................................................................................ 14
Using the wireless key ....................................................................................................... 14
Using Wireless Assistant software ..................................................................................... 15
Using operating system controls ........................................................................................ 15
Using a WLAN .................................................................................................................................... 16
Setting up a WLAN ............................................................................................................ 16
Protecting your WLAN ....................................................................................................... 16
Connecting to a WLAN ...................................................................................................... 17
Roaming to another network .............................................................................................. 18
Using Bluetooth wireless devices ....................................................................................................... 19
Bluetooth and Internet Connection Sharing (ICS) ............................................................. 19
Troubleshooting wireless connection problems ................................................................................. 20
v
Cannot connect to a preferred network ............................................................................. 20
Network icon for WLAN is not displayed ............................................................................ 20
Current WLAN network security codes are unavailable .................................................... 20
WLAN connection is very weak ......................................................................................... 21
Cannot connect to the wireless router ............................................................................... 21
Connecting to a local area network (LAN) .......................................................................................... 22
4 Pointing devices and keyboard
Using pointing devices ....................................................................................................................... 23
Setting pointing device preferences ................................................................................... 23
Using the TouchPad .......................................................................................................... 23
Turning the TouchPad on and off ...................................................................... 23
Navigating ......................................................................................................... 23
Selecting ........................................................................................................... 24
Using TouchPad gestures ................................................................................. 24
Scrolling ............................................................................................ 25
Pinching/Zooming ............................................................................. 25
Using the action keys ......................................................................................................................... 25
Using the hotkeys ............................................................................................................................... 28
Cleaning the TouchPad and keyboard ............................................................................................... 29
5 Multimedia
Multimedia features ............................................................................................................................ 30
Adjusting the volume ......................................................................................................... 30
Using the media activity keys ............................................................................................ 31
Multimedia software ........................................................................................................................... 31
Using HP MediaSmart software ......................................................................................... 32
Using multimedia software ................................................................................................. 32
Installing multimedia software from a disc ......................................................................... 32
Audio .................................................................................................................................................. 33
Connecting external audio devices .................................................................................... 33
Checking your audio functions ........................................................................................... 33
Using Beats Audio ............................................................................................................. 34
Identifying Beats Audio icons ............................................................................ 35
Video .................................................................................................................................................. 36
Connecting an external monitor or projector ..................................................................... 36
Connecting an HDMI device .............................................................................................. 37
Configuring audio for HDMI ............................................................................... 38
Webcam ............................................................................................................................................. 39
Webcam tips ...................................................................................................................... 39
Adjusting webcam properties ............................................................................................. 39
Using the ambient light sensor .......................................................................................................... 41
Using adaptive brightness ................................................................................................. 41
vi
Using the webcam IR lights ............................................................................................... 41
6 Power management
Setting power devices ........................................................................................................................ 43
Using power-saving states ................................................................................................. 43
Initiating and exiting Sleep ................................................................................ 43
Initiating and exiting Hibernation ....................................................................... 44
Conserving power .............................................................................................................. 44
Using the battery meter ..................................................................................................... 44
Using power plans ............................................................................................................. 45
Viewing the current power plan ......................................................................... 45
Selecting a different power plan ........................................................................ 45
Customizing power plans .................................................................................. 45
Setting password protection on wakeup ............................................................................ 46
Using external AC power .................................................................................................................... 47
Connecting AC power ........................................................................................................ 47
Testing an AC adapter ....................................................................................................... 48
Using battery power ........................................................................................................................... 49
Identifying batteries ............................................................................................................ 49
Finding battery information in Help and Support ............................................................... 49
Using Battery Check .......................................................................................................... 49
Displaying the remaining battery charge ........................................................................... 50
Removing or inserting the primary battery ......................................................................... 50
Charging a battery ............................................................................................................. 51
Maximizing battery discharge time .................................................................................... 52
Managing low battery levels .............................................................................................. 52
Identifying low battery levels ............................................................................. 52
Resolving a low battery level ............................................................................. 53
Resolving a low battery level when external power is available ....... 53
Resolving a low battery level when a charged battery is
available ........................................................................................... 53
Resolving a low battery level when no power source is
available ........................................................................................... 53
Resolving a low battery level when the computer cannot exit
Hibernation ....................................................................................... 53
Using the accessory battery (select models only) ............................................................. 53
Identifying the accessory battery components .................................................. 54
Inserting or removing an accessory battery ...................................................... 54
Battery charging and discharging sequence .................................................... 56
Calibrating a battery ........................................................................................................... 56
Storing a battery ................................................................................................................ 57
Disposing of a used battery ............................................................................................... 57
Replacing the battery ......................................................................................................... 57
Shutting down the computer ............................................................................................................... 58
vii
7 Drives and external devices
Drives ................................................................................................................................................. 59
Identifying installed drives .................................................................................................. 59
Handling drives .................................................................................................................. 59
Improving hard drive performance ..................................................................................... 60
Using Disk Defragmenter .................................................................................. 60
Using Disk Cleanup ........................................................................................... 60
Using HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection (select models only) ................................. 61
Identifying HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection status ................................ 61
Managing power with a parked hard drive ........................................................ 61
Using HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection software ................................... 62
Using external drives ......................................................................................................... 62
Connecting optional external drives .................................................................. 62
Using the external optical drive (select models only) ......................................................... 63
Removing an optical disc when the disc tray will not open ............................... 63
Sharing optical drives ........................................................................................................ 64
External devices ................................................................................................................................. 66
Using a USB device ........................................................................................................... 66
Connecting a USB device ................................................................................. 66
Removing a USB device ................................................................................... 66
Using an eSATA device ..................................................................................................... 67
Connecting an eSATA device ........................................................................... 67
Removing an eSATA device ............................................................................. 67
Using Digital Media Slot cards ........................................................................................... 68
Inserting a digital card ....................................................................................... 68
Removing a digital card ..................................................................................... 69
8 Memory modules
Adding or replacing a memory module in single-slot models ............................................................. 71
Adding or replacing a memory module in double-slot models ............................................................ 74
9 Security
Protecting the computer ..................................................................................................................... 78
Using passwords ................................................................................................................................ 79
Setting passwords in Windows .......................................................................................... 79
Setting passwords in Setup Utility ..................................................................................... 80
Administrator password ..................................................................................... 80
Managing an administrator password ............................................... 81
Entering an administrator password ................................................. 81
Power-on password .......................................................................................... 81
Managing a power-on password ...................................................... 82
Entering a power-on password ......................................................... 82
Using antivirus software ..................................................................................................................... 83
viii
Using firewall software ....................................................................................................................... 84
Installing critical security updates ....................................................................................................... 85
Installing an optional security cable .................................................................................................... 86
Appendix A Setup Utility (BIOS)
Starting Setup Utility ........................................................................................................................... 87
Using Setup Utility .............................................................................................................................. 88
Changing the language of Setup Utility ............................................................................. 88
Navigating and selecting in Setup Utility ............................................................................ 88
Displaying system information ........................................................................................... 89
Restoring default settings in Setup Utility .......................................................................... 89
Exiting Setup Utility ............................................................................................................ 89
Setup Utility menus ............................................................................................................................ 90
Main menu ......................................................................................................................... 90
Security menu .................................................................................................................... 90
System Configuration menu .............................................................................................. 90
Diagnostics menu .............................................................................................................. 91
Updating the BIOS ............................................................................................................................. 92
Determining the BIOS version ........................................................................................... 92
Downloading a BIOS update ............................................................................................. 92
Appendix B Backup and recovery
Creating recovery discs ...................................................................................................................... 95
Backing up your information ............................................................................................................... 96
Using Windows Backup and Restore ................................................................................ 96
Using system restore points .............................................................................................. 97
When to create restore points ........................................................................... 97
Create a system restore point ........................................................................... 97
Restore to a previous date and time ................................................................. 97
Performing a recovery ........................................................................................................................ 98
Recovering using the recovery discs ................................................................................. 98
Recovering using the dedicated recovery partition (select models only) ........................... 98
Appendix C RAID 0 (select models only)
Disabling RAID 0 .............................................................................................................................. 100
Index ................................................................................................................................................................. 101
ix
x
1 Notebook tour
Identifying hardware
To see a list of hardware installed in the computer:
▲
Select Start > Control Panel > System and Security. Then in the System area, click Device
Manager.
You can also add hardware or modify device configurations using Device Manager.
NOTE: Windows® includes the User Account Control feature to improve the security of your computer.
You may be prompted for your permission or password for tasks such as installing applications, running
utilities, or changing Windows settings. Refer to Help and Support for more information.
Identifying hardware 1
Components
Top components
TouchPad
Component Description
(1) TouchPad off indicator Turns the TouchPad on and off. Quickly double-tap the
TouchPad off indicator to turn the TouchPad on and off.
(2) Left TouchPad button Functions like the left button on an external mouse.
(3) Right TouchPad button Functions like the right button on an external mouse.
(4) TouchPad zone Moves the pointer and selects or activates items on the screen.
2 Chapter 1 Notebook tour
Lights
Component Description
(1) TouchPad off indicator
●
Amber: The TouchPad is off.
●
Off: The TouchPad is on.
(2) Caps lock light White: Caps lock is on.
(3) Power light
●
White: The computer is on.
●
Blinking white: The computer is in the Sleep state.
●
Off: The computer is off or in Hibernation.
(4) Mute light Amber: Computer sound is off.
(5) Wireless light
●
Off: An integrated wireless device, such as a wireless local
area network (WLAN) device and/or a Bluetooth® device,
is on.
NOTE: Wireless devices are enabled at the factory.
●
Amber: All wireless devices are off.
Components 3
Button
Component Description
Power button
●
When the computer is off, press the button to turn on the
computer.
●
When the computer is on, press the button briefly to initiate
Sleep.
●
When the computer is in the Sleep state, press the button
briefly to exit Sleep.
●
When the computer is in Hibernation, press the button briefly
to exit Hibernation.
If the computer has stopped responding and Windows® shutdown
procedures are ineffective, press and hold the power button for at
least 5 seconds to turn off the computer.
To learn more about your power settings, select Start > Control
Panel > System and Security > Power Options.
4 Chapter 1 Notebook tour
Keys
Component Description
(1) Action keys Execute frequently used system functions.
(2) wireless key Turns the wireless feature on or off.
NOTE: This key does not establish a wireless connection. To
establish a wireless connection, a wireless network must also be
set up.
(3) Windows applications key Displays a shortcut menu for items beneath the cursor.
(4) Windows logo key Displays the Windows Start menu.
(5) fn key Executes frequently used system functions when pressed in
combination with a function key or the esc key.
(6) calculator key Opens the Windows calculator function.
(7) print options key Opens the Print Options window of the active Windows
application.
(8) Web key Opens a Web browser.
NOTE: Until you have set up your Internet or network services,
the Web key opens the Windows Internet Connection Wizard. After
you have set up your Internet or network services and your Web
browser home page, you can press the Web key to quickly access
your home page and the Internet.
(9) Media Launch key Opens HP MediaSmart. HP MediaSmart turns your computer into
a mobile entertainment center. You can enjoy music and movies
and manage and edit your photo collections.
Components 5
Component Description
(10) mail key Opens your default e-mail program.
NOTE: The first time you press the mail key, you may be
prompted to set up your e-mail account. After you have set up your
e-mail, you can press the mail key to quickly access your e-mail.
(11) esc key Displays system information when pressed in combination with the
fn key.
Front components
Component Description
(1) Vents (2) Enable airflow to cool internal components.
NOTE: The computer fan starts up automatically to cool internal
components and prevent overheating. It is normal for the internal
fan to cycle on and off during routine operation.
(2) Digital Media Slot Supports the following digital card formats:
●
MultiMediaCard
●
Micro MultiMediaCard (adapter not included)
●
MultiMediaCard Plus
●
Secure Digital (SD) Memory Card
●
Micro Secure Digital (microSD) Memory Card (adapter not
included)
●
Secure Digital High Capacity Memory Card
Right-side components
Component Description
(1) Speaker Produces sound.
(2) Security cable slot Attaches an optional security cable to the computer.
6 Chapter 1 Notebook tour
Component Description
NOTE: The security cable is designed to act as a deterrent,
but it may not prevent the computer from being mishandled or
stolen.
(3) Audio-out (headphone) jack/Audio-in
(microphone) jack
Produces sound when connected to optional powered stereo
speakers, headphones, earbuds, a headset, or television
audio. Also connects an optional headset microphone.
NOTE: When a device is connected to the jack, the
computer speakers are disabled.
(4) eSATA/USB port Connects a high-performance eSATA component, such as an
eSATA external hard drive, or connects an optional USB
device.
(5) USB ports (2) Connect optional USB devices.
The USB ports support USB 1.0, USB 1.1, and USB 2.0
devices. Select computer models also support USB 3.0
devices.
(6) HDMI port Connects an optional video or audio device, such as a high-
definition television, or any compatible digital or audio
component.
(7) RJ-45 (network) jack Connects a network cable.
(8) Vent Enables airflow to cool internal components.
NOTE: The computer fan starts up automatically to cool
internal components and prevent overheating. It is normal for
the internal fan to cycle on and off during routine operation.
Left-side components
Component Description
(1) Battery light
●
Off: The computer is running on battery power.
●
Blinking amber: The battery has reached a low battery level,
a critical battery level, or there is a battery error.
●
Amber: A battery is charging.
●
White: The computer is connected to external power and the
battery is fully charged.
(2) Power connector Connects an AC adapter.
(3) Vent Enables airflow to cool internal components.
Components 7
Component Description
NOTE: The computer fan starts up automatically to cool internal
components and prevent overheating. It is normal for the internal
fan to cycle on and off during routine operation.
(4) Drive light
●
Blinking white: The hard drive is being accessed.
●
Amber (select models only): HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive
Protection has temporarily parked the hard drive.
(5) Speaker Produces sound.
Bottom components
Component Description
(1) Vents (4) Enable airflow to cool internal components.
NOTE: The computer fan starts up automatically to cool
internal components and prevent overheating. It is normal for
the internal fan to cycle on and off during routine operation.
(2) Battery bay Holds the primary battery.
NOTE: The primary battery is preinstalled in the battery bay
at the factory.
(3) Battery lock Locks the primary battery inside the battery bay.
(4) Memory module compartment Holds the memory modules.
8 Chapter 1 Notebook tour
Component Description
(5) Accessory battery connector Connects an optional accessory battery.
(6) Battery release latch Releases the primary battery from the battery bay.
Display components
Component Description
(1) Ambient light sensor Adjusts the screen brightness levels automatically, based on
surrounding lighting conditions.
(2) Internal microphones (2) Record sound.
(3) Webcam light On: The webcam is in use.
(4) Webcam infrared (IR) lights (2) Improve the webcam picture quality in low-light conditions.
(5) Webcam Records video and captures still photographs.
(6) Internal display switch Turns off the display and initiates Sleep if the display is closed while
the power is on.
NOTE: The internal display switch is not visible from the outside
of the computer.
Wireless antennas
The computer has 2 antennas that send and receive signals from one or more wireless devices. These
antennas are not visible from the outside of the computer.
Components 9
NOTE: For optimal transmission, keep the areas immediately around the antennas free from
obstructions.
To see wireless regulatory notices, refer to the section of the Regulatory, Safety and Environmental
Notices that applies to your country or region. These notices are located in Help and Support.
Additional hardware components
Component Description
(1) Power cord* Connects the AC adapter.
(2) AC adapter Converts AC power to DC power.
*Power cords vary in appearance by region and country.
10 Chapter 1 Notebook tour
Labels
The labels affixed to the computer provide information you may need when you troubleshoot system
problems or travel internationally with the computer.
●
Service tag—Provides important information including the following:
The service tag is located inside the battery bay.
◦
Serial number (s/n) (1). This is an alphanumeric identifier that is unique to each product.
◦
Product name (2). This is the product name affixed to the front of your notebook.
◦
Model description (3). This is the alphanumeric identifier you use to locate documents, drivers,
and support for your notebook.
◦
Warranty period (4). This number describes the duration (in years) of the warranty period for
this computer.
◦
Part number/Product number (p/n) (5). This number provides specific information about the
product's hardware components. The part number helps a service technician to determine
what components and parts are needed.
Have this information available when you contact technical support.
●
Microsoft® Certificate of Authenticity—Contains the Windows® Product Key. You may need the
Product Key to update or troubleshoot the operating system. This certificate is affixed to the bottom
of the computer.
●
Regulatory label—Provides regulatory information about the computer. The regulatory label is
affixed inside the battery bay.
●
Wireless certification label(s)—Provide information about optional wireless devices and the
approval markings of some of the countries or regions in which the devices have been approved
for use. An optional device may be a wireless local area network (WLAN) device or an optional
Bluetooth® device. If your computer model includes one or more wireless devices, one or more
certification labels are included with your computer. You may need this information when traveling
internationally. Wireless certification labels are affixed inside the battery bay.
Labels 11
2 Using HP QuickWeb (select models
only)
HP QuickWeb is an optional, instant-on environment that is separate from the main operating system.
This allows you to access the following applications without the need to first start Windows. You will
enjoy this feature if you browse the Internet, view and send e-mail, view digital photos, listen to music,
or keep in touch through instant messages or Skype. QuickWeb is ready to go within seconds of pressing
the power button.
NOTE: On computers with two solid-state drives (SSDs), QuickWeb is supported on select models
only.
QuickWeb includes the following features:
●
Web browser—Search and browse the Internet and create links to your favorite Web sites.
●
Chat—Chat with friends on multiple instant messaging programs, such as AOL Instant Messenger,
Google Talk, MSN, Windows Live! Messenger, or Yahoo! Messenger.
●
Skype—Skype is a voice-over-Internet protocol (VoIP) that lets you communicate free of charge
with other Skype users. With Skype, you can have a conference call or a video chat with one or
more people at a time. You can also make long-distance phone calls to land lines.
●
Web e-mail—View and send e-mail.
●
Web calendar—Display, edit, and organize your schedule.
●
Music Player—Listen to your favorite music and create playlists.
●
Photo Viewer—Browse through photos, create albums, and view slide shows.
NOTE: For information on using QuickWeb, refer to the HP ENVY 15 User Manual or the QuickWeb
software Help.
12 Chapter 2 Using HP QuickWeb (select models only)
3 Wireless and local area network
Using wireless devices
Wireless technology transfers data across radio waves instead of wires. Your computer may be
equipped with one or more of the following wireless devices:
●
Wireless local area network (WLAN) device—Connects the computer to wireless local area
networks (commonly referred to as Wi-Fi networks, wireless LANs, or WLANs) in corporate offices,
your home, and public places such as airports, restaurants, coffee shops, hotels, and universities.
In a WLAN, each mobile wireless device communicates with a wireless router or a wireless access
point.
●
Bluetooth® device—Creates a personal area network (PAN) to connect to other Bluetooth-enabled
devices such as computers, phones, printers, headsets, speakers, and cameras. In a PAN, each
device communicates directly with other devices, and devices must be relatively close together—
typically within 10 meters (approximately 33 feet) of each other.
Computers with WLAN devices support one or more of the following IEEE industry standards:
●
802.11b, the first popular standard, supports data rates of up to 11 Mbps and operates at a
frequency of 2.4 GHz.
●
802.11g supports data rates of up to 54 Mbps and operates at a frequency of 2.4 GHz. An 802.11g
WLAN device is backward compatible with 802.11b devices, so they can operate on the same
network.
●
802.11a supports data rates of up to 54 Mbps and operates at a frequency of 5 GHz.
NOTE: 802.11a is not compatible with 802.11b and 802.11g.
●
802.11n supports data rates of up to 450 Mbps and may operate at 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz, making it
backward compatible with 802.11a, b, and g.
For more information on wireless technology, refer to the information and Web site links provided in
Help and Support.
Identifying wireless and network status icons
Icon Name Description
Wireless (connected) Identifies the location of the wireless light and the wireless key
on the computer. Also identifies the Wireless Assistant
software on the computer and indicates that one or more of the
wireless devices are on.
Using wireless devices 13
Icon Name Description
Wireless (disconnected) Identifies the Wireless Assistant software on the computer and
indicates that all of the wireless devices are off.
Wired network (connected) Indicates that one or more network drivers on your computer
are installed and one or more network devices are connected
to the network.
Wired network (disabled/disconnected) Indicates that one or more of your network drivers are installed,
all network devices or all wireless devices are disabled in
Windows Control Panel, and no network devices are
connected to a wired network.
Network (connected) Indicates that one or more of your network drivers are installed,
one or more network devices are connected to a wireless
network, and one or more network devices may be connected
to a wired network.
Network (disabled/disconnected) Indicates that one or more of your network drivers are installed,
no wireless connections are available or all wireless network
devices are disabled by the wireless key or Wireless Assistant,
and no network devices are connected to a wired network.
Network (disconnected) Indicates that one or more of your network drivers are installed
and wireless connections are available, but no network devices
are connected to a wired or wireless network.
Using the wireless controls
You can control the wireless devices in your computer using these features:
●
wireless key
●
Wireless Assistant software
●
Operating system controls
Using the wireless key
The computer has a wireless key (1), one or more wireless devices, and one wireless light (2). All of the
wireless devices on your computer are enabled at the factory.
14 Chapter 3 Wireless and local area network
If the wireless light is amber, all wireless devices are off. If the wireless light is off, all wireless devices
are on.
The wireless light indicates the overall power state of your wireless devices, not the status of individual
devices. Press the wireless key to turn the wireless devices off or on.
Because the wireless devices are enabled at the factory, you can use the wireless key to turn on or turn
off the wireless devices simultaneously. Individual wireless devices can be controlled through Wireless
Assistant software.
Using Wireless Assistant software
A wireless device can be turned on or off using the Wireless Assistant software. If a wireless device is
disabled in Setup Utility, it must be reenabled in Setup Utility before it can be turned on or off using
Wireless Assistant.
NOTE: Enabling or turning on a wireless device does not automatically connect the computer to a
network or a Bluetooth-enabled device.
To view the state of the wireless devices, click the Show hidden icons icon, the arrow at the left of the
notification area, and position the mouse pointer over the wireless icon.
If the wireless icon is not displayed in the notification area, complete the following steps to change
Wireless Assistant properties:
1. Select Start > Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > Windows Mobility Center.
2. Click the wireless icon in the Wireless Assistant tile, which is located in the bottom row of Windows®
Mobility Center.
3. Click Properties.
4. Select the check box next to HP Wireless Assistant icon in notification area.
5. Click Apply.
6. Click Close.
For more information, refer to the Wireless Assistant software Help:
1. Open Wireless Assistant by clicking the wireless icon in Windows Mobility Center.
2. Click the Help button.
Using operating system controls
Some operating systems also offer a way to manage integrated wireless devices and the wireless
connection. For example, Windows provides the Network and Sharing Center that allows you to set up
a connection or network, connect to a network, manage wireless networks, and diagnose and repair
network problems.
To access the Network and Sharing Center, select Start > Control Panel > Network and Internet >
Network and Sharing Center.
For more information, select Start > Help and Support.
Using wireless devices 15
Using a WLAN
With a WLAN device, you can access a wireless local area network (WLAN), which is composed of other
computers and accessories that are linked by a wireless router or a wireless access point.
NOTE: The terms wireless router and wireless access point are often used interchangeably.
●
A large-scale WLAN, such as a corporate or public WLAN, typically uses wireless access points
that can accommodate a large number of computers and accessories and can separate critical
network functions.
●
A home or small office WLAN typically uses a wireless router, which allows several wireless and
wired computers to share an Internet connection, a printer, and files without requiring additional
pieces of hardware or software.
To use the WLAN device in your computer, you must connect to a WLAN infrastructure (provided through
a service provider or a public or corporate network).
Setting up a WLAN
To set up a WLAN and connect to the Internet, you need the following equipment:
●
A broadband modem (either DSL or cable) (1) and high-speed Internet service purchased from an
Internet service provider (ISP)
●
A wireless router (purchased separately) (2)
●
The wireless computer (3)
The following illustration shows an example of a wireless network installation that is connected to the
Internet.
NOTE: When setting up a wireless connection, be sure that your computer and wireless router are
synchronized. To synchronize your computer and wireless router, turn your computer and wireless
router off and then back on.
As your network grows, additional wireless and wired computers can be connected to the network to
access the Internet.
For help in setting up your WLAN, refer to the information provided by your router manufacturer or your
ISP.
Protecting your WLAN
Because the WLAN standard was designed with only limited security capabilities—basically to foil casual
eavesdropping rather than more powerful forms of attack—it is essential to understand that WLANs are
vulnerable to well-known and well-documented security weaknesses.
16 Chapter 3 Wireless and local area network
WLANs in public areas, or “hotspots,” like coffee shops and airports may not provide any security. New
technologies are being developed by wireless manufacturers and hotspot service providers that make
the public environment more secure and anonymous. If you are concerned about the security of your
computer in a hotspot, limit your network activities to noncritical e-mail and basic Internet surfing.
When you set up a WLAN or access an existing WLAN, always enable security features to protect your
network from unauthorized access. The common security levels are Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA)Personal and Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP). Because wireless radio signals travel outside the
network, other WLAN devices can pick up unprotected signals and either connect to your network
(uninvited) or capture information being sent across it. However, you can take precautions to protect
your WLAN:
●
Use a wireless transmitter with built-in security
Many wireless base stations, gateways, or routers provide built-in security features such as
wireless security protocols and firewalls. With the correct wireless transmitter, you can protect your
network from the most common wireless security risks.
●
Work behind a firewall
A firewall is a barrier that checks both data and requests for data that are sent to your network,
and discards any suspicious items. Firewalls are available in many varieties, both software and
hardware. Some networks use a combination of both types.
●
Use wireless encryption
A variety of sophisticated encryption protocols is available for your WLAN. Find the solution that
works best for your network security:
◦
Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) is a wireless security protocol that encodes or encrypts all
network data before it is transmitted using a WEP key. Usually, you can allow the network to
assign the WEP key. Alternatively, you can set up your own key, generate a different key, or
choose other advanced options. Without the correct key, others will not be able to use the
WLAN.
◦
WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access), like WEP, uses security settings to encrypt and decrypt data
that is transmitted over the network. However, instead of using one static security key for
encryptions as WEP does, WPA uses “temporal key integrity protocol” (TKIP) to dynamically
generate a new key for every packet. It also generates different sets of keys for each computer
on the network.
Connecting to a WLAN
To connect to the WLAN, follow these steps:
1. Be sure that the WLAN device is on (wireless light is off). If the wireless light is amber, press the
wireless key.
2. Click the network icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar.
3. Select your WLAN from the list.
4. Click Connect.
If the network is a security-enabled WLAN, you are prompted to enter a network security key, which
is a security code. Type the code, and then click Connect to complete the connection.
NOTE: If no WLANs are listed, you are out of range of a wireless router or access point.
Using a WLAN 17
NOTE: If you do not see the network you want to connect to, click Open Network and Sharing
Center, and then click Set up a new connection or network. A list of options is displayed. You
can choose to manually search for and connect to a network or to create a new network connection.
After the connection is made, place the mouse pointer over the network icon in the notification area, at
the far right of the taskbar, to verify the name and status of the connection.
NOTE: The functional range (how far your wireless signals travel) depends on WLAN implementation,
router manufacturer, and interference from other electronic devices or structural barriers such as walls
and floors.
More information about using a WLAN is available through the following resources:
●
Information from your ISP and the user guides included with your wireless router and other WLAN
equipment
●
Information and Web site links provided in Help and Support
For a list of public WLANs near you, contact your ISP or search the Web. Web sites that list public
WLANs include Cisco Internet Mobile Office Wireless Locations, Hotspotlist, and Geektools. Check with
each public WLAN location for cost and connection requirements.
For additional information on connecting your computer to a corporate WLAN, contact your network
administrator or IT department.
Roaming to another network
When you move your computer within range of another WLAN, Windows attempts to connect to that
network. If the attempt is successful, your computer is automatically connected to the new network. If
Windows does not recognize the new network, follow the same procedure you used initially to connect
to your WLAN.
18 Chapter 3 Wireless and local area network
Using Bluetooth wireless devices
A Bluetooth device provides short-range wireless communications that replace the physical cable
connections that traditionally link electronic devices such as the following:
●
Computers (desktop, notebook, PDA)
●
Phones (cellular, cordless, smart phone)
●
Imaging devices (printer, camera)
●
Audio devices (headset, speakers)
Bluetooth devices provide peer-to-peer capability that allows you to set up a personal area network
(PAN) of Bluetooth devices. For information on configuring and using Bluetooth devices, refer to the
Bluetooth software Help.
Bluetooth and Internet Connection Sharing (ICS)
HP does not recommend setting up one computer with Bluetooth as a host and using it as a gateway
through which other computers may connect to the Internet. When two or more computers are connected
using Bluetooth, and Internet Connection Sharing (ICS) is enabled on one of the computers, the other
computers may not be able to connect to the Internet using the Bluetooth network.
The strength of Bluetooth is in synchronizing information transfers between your computer and wireless
devices including cellular phones, printers, cameras, and PDAs. The inability to consistently connect
two or more computers to share the Internet through Bluetooth is a limitation of Bluetooth and the
Windows operating system.
Using Bluetooth wireless devices 19
Troubleshooting wireless connection problems
Some possible causes for wireless connection problems include the following:
●
Network configuration (SSID or security) has been changed.
●
Wireless device is not installed correctly or has been disabled.
●
Wireless device or router hardware has failed.
●
Wireless device encountered interference from other devices.
Cannot connect to a preferred network
Windows can automatically repair a corrupted WLAN connection:
●
If there is a network icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar, right-click the icon,
and then click Troubleshooting from the menu.
Windows resets your network device and attempts to reconnect to one of the preferred networks.
●
If there is no network icon in the notification area, follow these steps:
1. Select Start > Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center.
2. Click Troubleshoot problems and select the network you wish to repair.
Network icon for WLAN is not displayed
If the network icon is not displayed in the notification area after you configure the WLAN, the software
driver is either missing or corrupted. A Windows “Device not Found” error message may also be
displayed. The driver must be reinstalled.
Get the latest version of the WLAN device software and drivers for your computer from the HP Web site
at
http://www.hp.com:
1. Open your Web browser and go to
http://www.hp.com/support.
2. Select your country or region.
3. Click the option for software and driver downloads, and then type your computer model number in
the search box.
4. Press enter, and then follow the on-screen instructions.
Current WLAN network security codes are unavailable
If you are prompted for a network key or a name (SSID) when connecting to a WLAN, the network is
protected by security. You must have the current codes to make a connection on a secure network. The
SSID and network key are alphanumeric codes that you enter into your computer to identify your
computer to the network.
●
For a network connected to your personal wireless router, review the router user guide for
instructions on setting up the same codes on both the router and the WLAN device.
●
For a private network, such as a network in an office or at a public Internet chat room, contact the
network administrator to obtain the codes, and then enter the codes when prompted to do so.
20 Chapter 3 Wireless and local area network
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