HP Envy 17.3 User Manual
User Guide
© Copyright 2013 Hewlett-Packard
Development Company, L.P.
Bluetooth is a trademark owned by its
proprietor and used by Hewlett-Packard
Company under license. Intel is a
trademark of Intel Corporation in the U.S.
and other countries. Microsoft and Windows
are U.S. registered trademarks of Microsoft
Corporation. SD Logo is a trademark of its
proprietor.
The information contained herein is subject
to change without notice. The only
warranties for HP products and services are
set forth in the express warranty statements
accompanying such products and services.
Nothing herein should be construed as
constituting an additional warranty. HP shall
not be liable for technical or editorial errors
or omissions contained herein.
Second Edition: April 2013
First Edition: February 2013
Document Part Number: 715238-002
Product notice
This guide describes features that are
common to most models. Some features
may not be available on your computer.
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 refund subject to the refund
policy of your place of purchase.
For any further information or to request a
full refund of the computer, please contact
your local point of sale (the seller).
Safety warning notice
WARNING! To reduce the possibility of heat-related injuries or of overheating the computer, do not
place the computer directly on your lap or obstruct the computer air vents. Use the computer only on
a hard, flat surface. Do not allow another hard surface, such as an adjoining optional printer, or a soft
surface, such as pillows or rugs or clothing, to block airflow. Also, do not allow the AC adapter to
come into contact with 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 Starting right ................................................................................................................................................... 1
Best practices ....................................................................................................................................... 1
Fun things to do .................................................................................................................................... 2
More HP resources .............................................................................................................................. 3
2 Getting to know your computer ..................................................................................................................... 4
Finding your hardware and software information ................................................................................. 4
Locating hardware ............................................................................................................... 4
Locating software ................................................................................................................. 4
Right side ............................................................................................................................................. 5
Left side ................................................................................................................................................ 6
Display .................................................................................................................................................. 8
Top ....................................................................................................................................................... 9
TouchPad ............................................................................................................................ 9
Lights ................................................................................................................................. 10
Buttons and speakers ........................................................................................................ 11
Keys ................................................................................................................................... 13
Bottom ................................................................................................................................................ 14
Labels ................................................................................................................................................. 16
3 Connecting to a network .............................................................................................................................. 17
Connecting to a wireless network ....................................................................................................... 17
Using the wireless controls ................................................................................................ 17
Using the wireless button .................................................................................. 17
Using operating system controls ....................................................................... 18
Using a WLAN ................................................................................................................... 18
Using an Internet service provider .................................................................... 18
Setting up a WLAN ............................................................................................ 19
Configuring a wireless router ............................................................................ 19
Protecting your WLAN ....................................................................................... 19
Connecting to a WLAN ...................................................................................... 20
v
Using Bluetooth wireless devices (select models only) ..................................................... 20
Connecting to a wired network ........................................................................................................... 21
Connecting to a local area network (LAN) ......................................................................... 21
4 Enjoying entertainment features ................................................................................................................. 22
Using the webcam (select models only) ............................................................................................. 24
Using audio ........................................................................................................................................ 24
Connecting speakers ......................................................................................................... 24
Connecting headphones .................................................................................................... 25
Connecting a microphone .................................................................................................. 25
Using Beats Audio (select models only) ............................................................................ 25
Accessing Beats Audio Control Panel ............................................................... 25
Enabling and disabling Beats Audio (select models only) ................................. 25
Checking the sound ........................................................................................................... 26
Using video ......................................................................................................................................... 27
Connecting an HDMI device .............................................................................................. 27
Configuring HDMI audio settings ...................................................................... 28
Using Intel Wireless Display (select models only) ............................................................. 28
Managing your audio and video files .................................................................................................. 28
5 Navigating using touch gestures, pointing devices and the keyboard ................................................... 29
Using the TouchPad ........................................................................................................................... 29
Using TouchPad gestures .................................................................................................................. 29
Tapping .............................................................................................................................. 30
Scrolling ............................................................................................................................. 31
Pinching/zooming .............................................................................................................. 31
Rotating (select models only) ............................................................................................ 32
2-finger click (select models only) ...................................................................................... 32
Flicking (select models only) .............................................................................................. 33
Edge swipes ...................................................................................................................... 33
Right-edge swipe .............................................................................................. 33
Top-edge swipe ................................................................................................. 34
Left-edge swipe ................................................................................................. 34
Using touch screen gestures (select models only) ............................................................................. 35
One-finger slide ................................................................................................................. 35
Tapping .............................................................................................................................. 35
Scrolling ............................................................................................................................. 36
Pinching/stretching ............................................................................................................ 36
Rotating (select models only) ............................................................................................ 37
Edge swipes ...................................................................................................................... 37
Right-edge swipe .............................................................................................. 37
vi
Left-edge swipe ................................................................................................. 38
Top-edge swipe and bottom-edge swipe .......................................................... 38
Setting touch screen preferences (select models only) ...................................................................... 39
Using the keyboard and mouse .......................................................................................................... 39
Using the keys ................................................................................................................... 40
Using the action keys ........................................................................................ 40
Using Microsoft Windows 8 shortcut keys ......................................................... 41
Using the hot keys (select models only) ............................................................ 42
Using the integrated numeric keypad ................................................................................ 42
6 Managing power ............................................................................................................................................ 43
Initiating Sleep and Hibernation ......................................................................................................... 43
Intel Rapid Start Technology (select models only) ............................................................ 43
Initiating and exiting Sleep ................................................................................................. 44
Enabling and exiting user-initiated hibernation .................................................................. 44
Setting password protection on wakeup ............................................................................ 45
Using the power meter and power settings ........................................................................................ 45
Running on battery power .................................................................................................................. 45
Removing a user-replaceable battery ................................................................................ 45
Finding battery information ................................................................................................ 46
Conserving battery power .................................................................................................. 46
Identifying low battery levels .............................................................................................. 47
Resolving a low battery level ............................................................................................. 47
Resolving a low battery level when external power is available ........................ 47
Resolving a low battery level when no power source is available ..................... 47
Resolving a low battery level when the computer cannot exit Hibernation ....... 47
Storing a user-replaceable battery ..................................................................................... 47
Disposing of a user-replaceable battery ............................................................................ 48
Replacing a user-replaceable battery ................................................................................ 48
Running on external AC power .......................................................................................................... 48
Troubleshooting power problems ...................................................................................... 49
HP CoolSense (select models only) ................................................................................................... 49
Refreshing your software content with Intel Smart Connect Technology (select models only) .......... 49
Shutting down (turning off) the computer ........................................................................................... 50
7 Managing and sharing information ............................................................................................................. 51
Using a USB device ........................................................................................................................... 51
Connecting a USB device .................................................................................................. 52
Removing a USB device .................................................................................................... 52
Connecting a powered USB device ................................................................................... 52
Inserting and removing a digital storage card .................................................................................... 53
vii
Using optical drives ............................................................................................................................ 54
Inserting an optical disc ..................................................................................................... 55
Tray-load ........................................................................................................... 55
Removing an optical disc ................................................................................................... 55
Tray-load ........................................................................................................... 55
When the disc tray opens normally .................................................. 56
When the disc tray fails to open normally ......................................... 56
Sharing data and drives and accessing software .............................................................. 57
8 Maintaining your computer .......................................................................................................................... 59
Improving performance ...................................................................................................................... 59
Handling drives .................................................................................................................. 59
Replacing the primary hard drive ....................................................................................... 60
Replacing the secondary hard drive (select models only) ................................................. 62
Using HP 3D DriveGuard (select models only) .................................................................. 64
Using Disk Defragmenter ................................................................................................... 64
Using Disk Cleanup ........................................................................................................... 65
Adding or replacing memory modules ............................................................................... 65
Updating programs and drivers .......................................................................................................... 69
Cleaning your computer ..................................................................................................................... 69
Cleaning the display, sides, and cover .............................................................................. 69
Cleaning the TouchPad and keyboard .............................................................................. 69
Traveling with or shipping your computer ........................................................................................... 70
9 Securing your computer and information .................................................................................................. 71
Using passwords ................................................................................................................................ 71
Setting Windows passwords .............................................................................................. 72
Setting Setup Utility (BIOS) passwords ............................................................................. 72
Using the fingerprint reader ................................................................................................................ 73
Using HP SimplePass (select models only) ....................................................................... 73
Registering fingerprints ..................................................................................... 73
Using your registered fingerprint to log on to Windows ..................................... 74
Using Internet security software ......................................................................................................... 74
Using antivirus software ..................................................................................................... 74
Using firewall software ....................................................................................................... 74
Installing software updates ................................................................................................................. 75
Installing critical security updates ...................................................................................... 75
Installing HP and third-party software updates .................................................................. 75
Securing your wireless network .......................................................................................................... 75
Backing up your software applications and information ..................................................................... 75
Using an optional security cable lock ................................................................................................. 75
viii
10 Using Setup Utility (BIOS) and System Diagnostics ............................................................................... 77
Starting Setup Utility (BIOS) ............................................................................................................... 77
Updating the BIOS ............................................................................................................................. 77
Determining the BIOS version ........................................................................................... 77
Downloading a BIOS update ............................................................................................. 78
Using System Diagnostics .................................................................................................................. 79
11 Backing up, restoring, and recovering ..................................................................................................... 80
Creating recovery media and backups ............................................................................................... 80
Creating HP Recovery media ............................................................................................ 81
Restore and recovery ......................................................................................................................... 82
Using Windows Refresh for quick and easy recovery ....................................................... 83
Remove everything and reinstall Windows ........................................................................ 83
Recovering using HP Recovery Manager .......................................................................... 84
What you need to know ..................................................................................... 84
Using the HP Recovery partition to recover a minimized image (select
models only) ...................................................................................................... 85
Using HP Recovery media to recover ............................................................... 85
Changing the computer boot order ................................................................... 85
Removing the HP Recovery partition ................................................................................. 86
12 Specifications .............................................................................................................................................. 87
Input power ......................................................................................................................................... 87
Operating environment ....................................................................................................................... 88
13 Electrostatic Discharge .............................................................................................................................. 89
Index ................................................................................................................................................................... 90
ix
x
1 Starting right
This computer is a powerful tool designed to enhance your work and entertainment. Read this
chapter to learn about best practices after setup, fun things to do with your computer, and where to
get more HP resources.
Best practices
To get the most out of your smart investment, after you set up and register the computer, we
recommend the following steps:
If you haven’t already done so, connect to a wired or wireless network. See details in
●
to a network on page 17.
● Take a minute to browse the printed Windows 8 Basics guide to explore the new Windows® 8
features.
TIP: To quickly return to the computer Start screen from an open app or the Windows desktop,
press the Windows key
to the previous screen.
Become familiar with the computer hardware and software. For more information, see
●
know your computer on page 4 and Enjoying entertainment features on page 22 for
information.
Update or purchase antivirus software. Learn more at
●
Back up your hard drive by creating recovery discs or a recovery flash drive. See
●
restoring, and recovering on page 80.
on your keyboard. Pressing the Windows key again will return you
Using antivirus software on page 74.
Connecting
Getting to
Backing up,
Best practices 1
Fun things to do
You know that you can watch a YouTube video on the computer. But did you know that you can
●
also connect your computer to a TV or gaming console? For more information, see
an HDMI device on page 27.
You know you can listen to music on the computer. But did you know that you can also stream
●
live radio to the computer and listen to music or talk radio from all over the world? See
audio on page 24.
Experience music the way the artist intended, with deep controlled base and clear, pure sound.
●
Using Beats Audio (select models only) on page 25.
See
Use the TouchPad and the new Windows 8 touch gestures for smooth control of images and
●
pages of text. See
on page 29.
Connecting
Using
Using the TouchPad on page 29 and Using TouchPad gestures
2 Chapter 1 Starting right
More HP resources
You have already used Setup Instructions to turn on the computer and locate this guide. To locate
product details, how-to information, and more, use this table.
Resource Contents
Setup Instructions
Windows 8 Basics guide ● Overview of using and navigating with Windows® 8.
Help and Support
To access Help and Support, from the Start screen,
type h, and then select Help and Support. For U.S.
support, go to
worldwide support, go to
country/us/en/wwcontact_us.html.
Safety & Comfort Guide
To access this guide, from the Start screen, type
support, select the HP Support Assistant app,
select My computer, and then select User guides, or
http://www.hp.com/ergo.
go to
Worldwide support
To get support in your language, go to
http://welcome.hp.com/country/us/en/
wwcontact_us.html.
Regulatory, Safety and Environmental Notices
To access this guide, from the Start screen, type
support, select the HP Support Assistant app,
select My computer, and then select User guides.
http://www.hp.com/go/contactHP. For
http://welcome.hp.com/
Overview of computer setup and features.
●
A broad range of how-to information and troubleshooting tips.
●
● Proper workstation setup.
● Guidelines for posture and work habits that increase your
comfort and decrease your risk of injury.
Electrical and mechanical safety information.
●
Online chat with an HP technician.
●
● Email support.
Find support telephone numbers.
●
Locate HP service center locations.
●
Important regulatory notices, including proper battery disposal
●
information.
Limited Warranty*
To access this guide, from the Start screen, type
support, select the HP Support Assistant app,
select My computer, and then select Warranty and
services, or go to
orderdocuments.
*You can find the expressly provided HP Limited Warranty applicable to your product located with the user guides on your
computer and/or on the CD/DVD provided in the box. In some countries/regions, HP may provide a printed HP Limited
Warranty in the box. For countries/regions where the warranty is not provided in printed format, you may request a printed
copy from
North America: Hewlett-Packard, MS POD, 11311 Chinden Blvd., Boise, ID 83714, USA
●
Europe, Middle East, Africa: Hewlett-Packard, POD, Via G. Di Vittorio, 9, 20063, Cernusco s/Naviglio (MI), Italy
●
● Asia Pacific: Hewlett-Packard, POD, P.O. Box 200, Alexandra Post Office, Singapore 911507
When you request a printed copy of your warranty, please include your product number, warranty period (found on your
service label), name, and postal address.
IMPORTANT: Do NOT return your HP product to the addresses above. For U.S. support, go to
contactHP. For worldwide support, go to http://welcome.hp.com/country/us/en/wwcontact_us.html.
http://www.hp.com/go/
http://www.hp.com/go/orderdocuments or write to:
● Specific warranty information about this computer.
http://www.hp.com/go/
More HP resources 3
2 Getting to know your computer
Finding your hardware and software information
Locating hardware
To find out what hardware is installed on your computer:
1. From the Start screen, type c, and then select Control Panel.
2. Select System and Security, and then in the System area, select Device Manager.
A list reveals all the devices installed in your computer.
Locating software
To find out what software is installed on your computer, from the Start screen, right-click using
▲
the mouse or swipe from the top of the TouchPad to reveal the app commands, and then select
the All apps icon.
4 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer
Right side
Component Description
(1)
(2)
(3) Optical drive Reads and writes (select models only) to an optical disc.
(4) Optical drive eject button Releases the optical drive disc tray
Audio-out (headphone) jack/Audio-in
(microphone) jack
USB 3.0 ports (2) Connect optional USB 3.0 devices and provide enhanced
Connects optional powered stereo speakers, headphones,
earbuds, a headset, or a television audio cable. Also
connects an optional headset microphone. This jack does
not support optional microphone-only devices.
WARNING! To reduce the risk of personal injury, adjust
the volume before putting on headphones, earbuds, or a
headset. For additional safety information, refer to the
Regulatory, Safety, and Environmental Notices. To access
this guide, from the Start screen, type support, select the
HP Support Assistant app, select My computer, and then
select User guides.
NOTE: When a device is connected to the jack, the
computer speakers are disabled.
NOTE: Be sure that the device cable has a 4-conductor
connector that supports both audio-out (headphone) and
audio-in (microphone).
USB power performance.
NOTE: For details about different types of USB ports, see
Using a USB device on page 51
(5) AC adapter light
(6)
Power connector Connects an AC adapter.
White: The AC adapter is connected and the battery is
●
charged.
Amber: The AC adapter is connected and the battery
●
is charging.
● Off: The computer is using DC power.
Right side 5
Left side
Component Description
(1)
(2) Vents (2) Enable airflow to cool internal components.
(3)
(4)
RJ-45 (network) status light White: The network is connected.
(5)
Security cable slot Attaches an optional security cable to the computer.
NOTE: The security cable is designed to act as a
deterrent, but it may not prevent the computer from being
mishandled or stolen.
NOTE: The computer fan starts up automatically to cool
internal components and prevent overheating. It is normal
for the internal fan to cycle on and off during routine
operation.
HDMI port Connects an optional video or audio device, such as a
high-definition television, any compatible digital or audio
component, or a high-speed HDMI device.
RJ-45 (network) jack Connects a network cable.
Amber: Activity is occurring on the network.
USB 3.0 charging port Connects an optional USB device. The USB 3.0 charging
port can also charge select models of cell phones and MP3
players, even when the computer is off.
NOTE: A USB charging port (also referred to as a USB
powered port) allows you to charge connected USB
devices. Standard USB ports will not charge all USB
devices or will charge using a low current. Some USB
devices require power and require you to use a powered
port.
(5)
(6)
USB 3.0 port Connects optional USB 3.0 devices and provide enhanced
Memory card reader Reads data to and from memory cards such as Secure
6 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer
NOTE: For details about different types of USB ports, see
Using a USB device on page 51.
USB power performance.
NOTE: For details about different types of USB ports, see
Using a USB device on page 51
Digital (SD).
Component Description
(7)
(8)
Hard drive light
Power light ● White: The computer is on.
Blinking white: The hard drive is being accessed.
●
● Amber: HP 3D DriveGuard has temporarily parked the
hard drive.
NOTE: For information about HP 3D DriveGuard,
see Using HP 3D DriveGuard (select models only)
on page 64.
Blinking white: The computer is in the Sleep state,
●
which is an energy-saving mode. The computer shuts
off power to the display and other unneeded
components.
Off: The computer is off or in Hibernation. Hibernation
●
is an energy-saving mode that uses the least amount
of power.
NOTE: For select models, the Intel® Rapid Start
Technology feature is enabled at the factory. Rapid
Start Technology allows your computer to resume
quickly from inactivity. For more information, see
Initiating Sleep and Hibernation on page 43.
Left side 7
Display
Component Description
(1) Internal display switch Turns off the display and initiates Sleep if the display is closed
(2) Internal microphones (2) Record sound.
(3) Webcam light On: The webcam is in use.
(4) HP TrueVision HD Webcam Records video and takes still photographs.
(5) WLAN antennas (2)* Send and receive wireless signals to communicate with wireless
*The antennas are not visible from the outside of the computer. For optimal transmission, keep the areas immediately
around the antennas free from obstructions. For wireless regulatory notices, see the section of the Regulatory, Safety, and
Environmental Notices that applies to your country or region. To access this guide, from the Start screen, type support,
select the HP Support Assistant app, select My computer, and then select User guides.
while the power is on.
NOTE: The internal display switch is not visible from the
outside of the computer.
Swipe from the right edge of the TouchPad or touch
screen (select models only) to display the charms, tap Search,
and then tap the search box. Type c, and then select
CyberLink YouCam from the list of applications.
– or –
From the Start screen, type c, and then select
CyberLink YouCam from the list of applications.
local area networks (WLANs).
8 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer
Top
TouchPad
Component Description
(1) TouchPad zone Moves the on-screen pointer and selects or activates items
(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.
on the screen.
NOTE: The TouchPad also supports edge-swipe
gestures. For more information, see
on page 33.
Edge swipes
Top 9
Lights
Component Description
(1)
(2)
(3)
Power light
Mute light
Wireless light On: An integrated wireless device, such as a wireless local
White: The computer is on.
●
● Blinking white: The computer is in the Sleep state,
which is an energy-saving mode. The computer shuts
off power to the display and other unneeded
components.
● Off: The computer is off or in Hibernation. Hibernation
is an energy-saving mode that uses the least amount
of power.
NOTE: For select models, the Intel® Rapid Start
Technology feature is enabled at the factory. Rapid
Start Technology allows your computer to resume
quickly from inactivity. For more information, see
Initiating Sleep and Hibernation on page 43.
Amber: Computer sound is off.
●
● Off: Computer sound is on.
area network (WLAN) device and/or a Bluetooth® device, is
on.
NOTE: On some models, the wireless light is amber when
all wireless devices are off.
10 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer
Component Description
(4) Caps lock light On: Caps lock is on, which switches the keys to all capital
(5) Fingerprint reader light
Buttons and speakers
letters.
White: The fingerprint authentication was successful.
●
● Amber: The fingerprint authentication failed.
Top 11
Component Description
(1)
Power button
When the computer is off, press the button to turn on
●
the tablet.
● 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.
CAUTION: Pressing and holding down the power button
will result in the loss of unsaved information.
● If the computer has stopped responding and
Microsoft® Windows® shutdown procedures are
ineffective, press and hold the power button down for
at least 5 seconds to turn off the tablet.
Swipe from the right edge of the TouchPad or
touch screen (select models only) to display the charms,
tap Search, and then tap the search box. In the search box,
type power, select Settings, and then select Power
options, or see
– or –
Managing power on page 43.
To learn more about your power settings, from
the Start screen, type p. In the search box, type power,
select Settings, and then select Power options, or see
Managing power on page 43.
(2) Speakers (2) Produce sound.
(3) Fingerprint reader (select models only) Allows a fingerprint logon to Windows, instead of a
password logon.
12 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer
Keys
Component Description
(1) esc key Reveals system information when pressed in combination
with the fn key.
(2) fn key Executes frequently used system functions when pressed
in combination with the b key, the spacebar, or the esc key.
(3)
(4) Action keys Execute frequently used system functions.
(5) num lk key Alternates between the navigational and numeric functions
(6) Integrated numeric keypad When num lk has been enabled, it can be used like an
Windows key Returns you to the Start screen from an open app or the
Windows desktop.
NOTE: Pressing the Windows key again will return you to
the previous screen.
NOTE: On select models, the f5 action key turns the
radiance backlight keyboard feature off or on.
on the integrated numeric keypad.
external numeric keypad.
Top 13
Bottom
Component Description
(1) HP Triple Bass Reflex Subwoofer Provides superior bass sound.
(2) 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.
(3) Battery bay Holds the battery.
(4)
Battery release latch Releases the battery.
14 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer
Component Description
(5) Speakers (2) Produce sound.
(6) Service door Provides access to the hard drive bay, the wireless
LAN (WLAN) module slot, and the memory module
slots.
CAUTION: To prevent an unresponsive system,
replace the wireless module only with a wireless
module authorized for use in the computer by the
governmental agency that regulates wireless devices
in your country or region. If you replace the module
and then receive a warning message, remove the
module to restore computer functionality, and then
contact support through Help and Support. From the
Start screen, type h, and then select Help and
Support.
Bottom 15
Labels
The labels affixed to the computer provide information you may need when you troubleshoot system
problems or travel internationally with the computer. The labels are in easily accessible locations.
●
Service label—Provides important information, including the following:
NOTE: Your label may look slightly different from the illustration in this section.
Component
(1) Product name
(2) Serial number
(3) Product number
(4) Warranty period
(5) Model description (select models only)
Have this information available when you contact support. The service label is located in the
battery bay.
Regulatory label—Provides regulatory information about the computer. The regulatory label is
●
located in the battery bay.
Wireless certification label or labels—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. 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 located in the battery bay.
16 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer
3 Connecting to a network
Your computer can travel with you wherever you go. But even at home, you can explore the globe
and access information from millions of websites using your computer and a wired or wireless
network connection. This chapter will help you get connected to that world.
Connecting to a wireless network
Wireless technology transfers data across radio waves instead of wires. Your computer may be
equipped with one or more of the following wireless devices:
Wireless local area network (WLAN) device—Connects the computer to wireless local area
●
networks (commonly referred to as Wi-Fi networks, wireless LANs, or WLANs) in corporate
offices, your home, and public places such as airports, restaurants, coffee shops, hotels, and
universities. In a WLAN, the mobile wireless device in your computer communicates with a
wireless router or a wireless access point.
● Bluetooth device (select models only)—Creates a personal area network (PAN) to connect to
other Bluetooth-enabled devices such as computers, phones, printers, headsets, speakers, and
cameras. In a PAN, each device communicates directly with other devices, and devices must be
relatively close together—typically within 10 meters (approximately 33 feet) of each other.
For more information about wireless technology, see the information and website links provided in
Help and Support. From the Start screen, type h, and then select Help and Support.
Using the wireless controls
You can control the wireless devices in your computer using these features:
Wireless button, wireless switch, or wireless key (referred to in this chapter as the wireless
●
button)
Operating system controls
●
Using the wireless button
The computer has a wireless button, one or more wireless devices, and one or two wireless lights,
depending on the model. All of the wireless devices on your computer are enabled at the factory, so
the wireless light is on (white) when you turn on the computer.
The wireless light indicates the overall power state of your wireless devices, not the status of
individual devices. If the wireless light is white, at least one wireless device is on. If the wireless light
is off, all wireless devices are off.
NOTE: On some models, the wireless light is amber when all wireless devices are off.
Connecting to a wireless network 17
Because the wireless devices are enabled at the factory, you can use the wireless button to turn on or
turn off the wireless devices simultaneously.
Using operating system controls
The Network and Sharing Center allows you to set up a connection or network, connect to a network,
manage wireless networks, and diagnose and repair network problems.
To use operating system controls:
Mode Steps
1. Swipe from the right edge of the TouchPad or touch screen (select models only) to display
the charms, tap Search, and then tap the search box.
2. Type network and sharing in the search box, and then select Network and Sharing
Center.
1. From the Start screen, type n, and then select Settings.
2. Type network and sharing in the search box, and then select Network and Sharing
Center.
For more information, from the Start screen, type h, and then select Help and Support.
Using a WLAN
With a WLAN device, you can access a wireless local area network (WLAN), which is composed of
other computers and accessories that are linked by a wireless router or a wireless access point.
NOTE: The terms wireless router and wireless access point are often used interchangeably.
A large-scale WLAN, such as a corporate or public WLAN, typically uses wireless access points
●
that can accommodate a large number of computers and accessories and can separate critical
network functions.
A home or small office WLAN typically uses a wireless router, which allows several wireless and
●
wired computers to share an Internet connection, a printer, and files without requiring additional
pieces of hardware or software.
To use the WLAN device in your computer, you must connect to a WLAN infrastructure (provided
through a service provider or a public or corporate network).
Using an Internet service provider
When you are setting up Internet access in your home, you must establish an account with an
Internet service provider (ISP). To purchase Internet service and a modem, contact a local ISP. The
ISP will help set up the modem, install a network cable to connect your wireless router to the modem,
and test the Internet service.
NOTE: Your ISP will give you a user ID and a password to use for Internet access. Record this
information and store it in a safe place.
18 Chapter 3 Connecting to a 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
A wireless router (2) (purchased separately)
●
A wireless computer (3)
●
NOTE: Some modems have a built-in wireless router. Check with your ISP to determine what type
of modem you have.
The illustration below shows an example of a wireless network installation that is connected to the
Internet.
As your network grows, additional wireless and wired computers can be connected to the network to
access the Internet.
For help in setting up your WLAN, see the information provided by your router manufacturer or your
ISP.
Configuring a wireless router
For help in setting up a WLAN, see the information provided by your router manufacturer or your ISP.
NOTE: It is recommended that you initially connect your new wireless computer to the router by
using the network cable provided with the router. When the computer successfully connects to the
Internet, disconnect the cable, and access the Internet through your wireless network.
Protecting your WLAN
When you set up a WLAN or access an existing WLAN, always enable security features to protect
your network from unauthorized access. WLANs in public areas (hotspots) like coffee shops and
airports may not provide any security. If you are concerned about the security of your computer when
connected to a hotspot, limit your network activities to email that is not confidential and basic Internet
surfing.
Wireless radio signals travel outside the network, so other WLAN devices can pick up unprotected
signals. Take the following precautions to protect your WLAN:
Use a firewall.
●
A firewall checks both data and requests for data that are sent to your network, and discards any
suspicious items. Firewalls are available in both software and hardware. Some networks use a
combination of both types.
● Use wireless encryption.
Connecting to a wireless network 19
Wireless encryption uses security settings to encrypt and decrypt data that is transmitted over
the network. For more information, from the Start screen, type h, and then select Help and
Support.
Connecting to a WLAN
To connect to the WLAN, follow these steps:
1. Be sure that the WLAN device is on. If the device is on, the wireless light is white. If the wireless
light is off, press the wireless button.
NOTE: On some models, the wireless light is amber when all wireless devices are off.
2. From the Windows desktop, tap or click the network status icon in the notification area, at the far
right of the taskbar.
3. Select your WLAN from the list.
4. Select Connect.
If the WLAN is a security-enabled WLAN, you are prompted to enter a security code. Type the
code, and then select OK to complete the connection.
NOTE: If no WLANs are listed, you may be out of range of a wireless router or access point.
NOTE: If you do not see the WLAN you want to connect to, from the Windows desktop, right-
click or tap the network status icon, and then select Open Network and Sharing Center. Select
Set up a new connection or network. A list of options is revealed, allowing you to manually
search for and connect to a network or to create a new network connection.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the connection.
After the connection is made, place the mouse pointer over the network status icon in the notification
area, at the far right of the taskbar, to verify the name and status of the connection.
NOTE: The functional range (how far your wireless signals travel) depends on WLAN
implementation, router manufacturer, and interference from other electronic devices or structural
barriers such as walls and floors.
Using Bluetooth wireless devices (select models only)
A Bluetooth device provides short-range wireless communications that replace the physical cable
connections that traditionally link electronic devices such as the following:
● Computers (desktop, notebook, PDA)
Phones (cellular, cordless, smart phone)
●
Imaging devices (printer, camera)
●
Audio devices (headset, speakers)
●
Mouse
●
Bluetooth devices provide peer-to-peer capability that allows you to set up a PAN of Bluetooth
devices. For information about configuring and using Bluetooth devices, see the Bluetooth software
Help.
20 Chapter 3 Connecting to a network
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