HP Media Center PC User Manual

HP Media Center PC

Getting Started Guide

The only warranties for Hewlett-Packard products and services are set forth in the express 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.

HP assumes no responsibility for the use or reliability of its software on equipment that is not furnished by HP.

This document contains proprietary information that is protected by copyright. No part of this document may be photocopied, reproduced, or translated to another language without the prior written consent of HP.

Hewlett-Packard Company P.O. Box 4010 Cupertino, CA 95015–4010 USA

May be licensed in the United States by one or both of U.S. Patents Nos. 4,930,158 and 4,930,160 until August 28, 2008.

Microsoft and Windows are U.S. registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.

HP supports lawful use of technology and does not endorse or encourage the use of our products for purposes other than those permitted by copyright law.

The information in this document is subject to change without notice.

Before Getting Started.................................. 1

PC Setup Tips....................................................................... 1

Choosing a PC setup location ................................................1

Choosing a display .............................................................. 1

Using additional video cables................................................ 1

Using additional sound cables ...............................................1

Using a video game console..................................................1

Important Safety Information About Your HP Media

Center PC .......................................................................2

Finding Guides on Your PC and on the Web ...........................2

Onscreen guides ..................................................................2

Online guides ......................................................................2

Using the PC with Safety and Comfort..................................... 3

Using PC Help & Tools.......................................................... 3

Connecting to the Internet...................................................... 3

Connecting to the Internet requirements................................... 3

Configuring and Registering Norton Internet Security

Software......................................................................... 4

Signing Up for Software Updates ...........................................5

Updates from HP .................................................................. 5

Automatic Updates ...............................................................5

Getting messages ................................................................. 6

Turning off messages ............................................................6

Setting Up Accounts on Your New PC.....................................7

Creating user accounts.......................................................... 7

Creating passwords.............................................................. 8

Installing Software and Hardware Devices............................... 8

Transferring Files and Settings from Your Old PC to

Your New PC .................................................................. 9

HP Products Work Better Together ..........................................9

Protecting the PC .................................................................. 9

Installing Software .............................................................. 10

Getting Help...................................................................... 10

Setting Up the PC ....................................... 11

HP Media Center PC Front Connectors..................................11

HP Media Center PC Rear Connectors ..................................12

Connecting a Digital Video Camera to the PC .......................15

Connecting to Other Devices ...............................................16

Connecting the Television Signal ................. 17

Using TV Cables.................................................................17

Audio and Video Cables .....................................................17

Connecting the TV Signal Source..........................................19

Connecting a dual tuner ......................................................20

Connecting the Remote Sensor .............................................21

Connecting the TV Signal Source When You Have an

Existing Setup ................................................................22

Wall to VCR to TV using coaxial cable ..................................22

Wall to cable TV set-top box or satellite box to VCR to TV

using coaxial cable ........................................................23

Wall to cable TV set-top box or satellite box to VCR and TV

using S-video cable or composite video cable between

the box and the VCR or TV..............................................24

Using the TV as a Monitor ...................................................26

Cables for connecting the PC to a TV ....................................26

Viewing the PC Image on Your TV Screen..............................26

Adjusting the Screen Resolution ............................................26

Connecting the PC to a TV ...................................................27

Using the Media Center Setup Wizard for Optional Setup

of Your TV Display .........................................................28

Changing the Display for a GeForce Graphics Card...............29

Changing the Display for an ATI Graphics Card.....................29

Changing the Display for an ATI Catalyst Control Center

Graphics Card...............................................................30

Viewing the PC image on the TV ..........................................30

Viewing the PC image on the TV using the GeForce graphics

card .............................................................................31

Viewing the PC image on the TV using the ATI graphics

card .............................................................................31

Enabling and disabling the TV option using the GeForce

graphics card ................................................................32

Enabling and disabling the TV option using the ATI Displays

graphics card ................................................................32

Enabling and disabling the TV option with ATI Catalyst

Control Center ...............................................................33

Disconnecting the TV...........................................................33

Changing Your Display Using Windows XP ...........................34

Table of Contents iii

Configuring Speaker and Sound Options.... 35

Sound Connector Types.......................................................35

Speaker Configurations .......................................................37

Speaker types ....................................................................38

Connecting 2/2.1 (2 Speakers and a Subwoofer)

Audio Speakers .............................................................39

Connecting 4.1 (4 Speakers and a Subwoofer)

Audio Speakers .............................................................40

Connecting 5.1 (5 Speakers and a Subwoofer)

Audio Speakers .............................................................41

Connecting 7.1 (7 Speakers and a Subwoofer)

Audio Speakers .............................................................42

Connecting the PC to a Home Audio System ..........................43

Y adapter cables ................................................................44

2.1 home stereo installation .................................................44

5.1 home audio installation .................................................45

5.1 home audio installation procedure ..................................46

Connecting Digital Audio ....................................................47

Configuring Audio Output ...................................................48

Configuring Audio Output with Multi-channel

Sound Manager.............................................................48

Enabling digital audio output with Multi-channel

Sound Manager (optional) ..............................................49

Configuring Audio Output with Sound Effect Manager ............50

The Sound Effect Manager control screens .............................50

Using the Audio Wizard in the Sound Effect Manager

(type 6 connectors).........................................................51

Retasking front-panel connectors...........................................52

Disabling digital audio output with Sound Effect Manager

(optional) ......................................................................52

Configuring Audio Output with a Sound Card........................53

Enabling digital audio output with a sound card

(optional) ......................................................................53

Disabling digital audio output with Sound Effect

Manager (optional) ........................................................54

Configuring Audio Output with Realtek HD Sound Effect

Manager.......................................................................54

The Realtek HD Sound Effect Manager control screens ............55

Configuring the Realtek HD Sound Effect Manager .................55

Configuring sound for recording with the Realtek HD

Sound Effect Manager ....................................................56

Retasking front panel audio connectors..................................56

Configuring Multi-streaming Audio ....................................... 56

Audio output overview........................................................ 57

Audio input overview ......................................................... 57

When to use multi-streaming audio....................................... 57

Setting up multi-streaming audio .......................................... 58

Configuring Audio for Media Center .................................... 59

Configuring Audio for InterVideo WinDVD Player .................. 60

Using Headphones............................................................. 60

Using a 2.1 speaker system with headphones ....................... 60

Using a 5.1 to 7.1 speaker system with headphones.............. 61

Selecting recording devices................................................. 61

Resolving Sound Issues ....................................................... 61

Using the Creative Sound Blaster X-Fi Sound Card ................. 62

Connecting the speakers..................................................... 62

Configuring the sound card software .................................... 63

Configuring the FlexiJack connector ..................................... 63

Recording with the sound card ............................................ 64

Sound Blaster X-Fi configuration modes................................. 64

Using the Sound Blaster X-Fi documentation........................... 65

Using the PC Hardware...............................67

Using the Keyboard ........................................................... 67

Special Keyboard Buttons ................................................... 67

Access buttons................................................................... 67

Media control or playback buttons ....................................... 68

Customizing the keyboard buttons........................................ 68

Using the Remote Control.................................................... 69

Remote sensor is not receiving a signal from the remote

control ......................................................................... 70

Memory Card Reader......................................................... 70

Formatting a memory card .................................................. 71

Using the memory card reader ............................................ 71

Understanding the activity light ............................................ 71

Memory Insertion Guide ..................................................... 72

Troubleshooting the memory card reader .............................. 74

Safely Remove Hardware Utility........................................... 74

Using Your Storage or Docking Bay ..................................... 75

Storing CDs, DVDs, or memory cards ................................... 75

Installing an HP camera docking station................................ 75

Connecting the Wireless LAN.............................................. 78

Index..........................................................79

iv HP Media Center PC Getting Started Guide

This guide can help you get started using your new HP Media Center PC. You may want to browse some of the other documentation that came with your HP Media Center PC.

1 Read the “Safety Information” section in the

Warranty and Support Guide that came with your PC.

2 Identify the items included with your

HP Media Center PC.

PC Setup Tips

Before Getting Started

3 Follow the setup information that came with

your PC to connect your display.

4 Read this guide for information about using

your HP Media Center PC.

A warning describes information you need to avoid possible personal injury or damage to equipment or data.

Read and follow all warnings.

Choosing a PC setup location

If you intend to connect your PC to your TV, a set-top box, or a surround sound system, HP recommends that you choose a clear working area with easy access to the connectors of these devices. If your TV is wall-mounted, make sure that you have access to the rear ports on the TV before attempting to connect it to the PC.

Choosing a display

HP recommends using a PC monitor to initially set up the PC because it may be difficult to view text and images on a TV due to the higher resolution of Microsoft may not be supported by some older or LCD displays. Also, high resolutions may result in a blank display if your display does not support it.

Using additional video cables

If you plan to connect your TV to the PC, you may need additional cables that are not included with your PC. HP Media Center PC models have different video output options, depending on your PC model. The options are: S-video, composite video, VGA, and DVI. For best video quality use DVI, then VGA, then S-video, followed by composite video. Check the documentation that came with your PC and TV to determine which cables you need. HP does not recommend video cable lengths over 1.5 meters (4.9 feet).

Windows® XP. Some high resolutions

Using additional sound cables

If you plan to connect the PC audio to an amplifier or a TV, you may need additional sound cables that are not included with your PC. Your PC is able to output sound in several modes. Your PC has 3.5 mm female stereo headphone jacks for most outputs. Many amplifiers have RCA inputs. You need one

3.5 mm male-to-RCA stereo cable for stereo sound. You need three 3.5 mm male-to-RCA cables for surround sound. Check the documentation that came with your audio equipment for the best input method.

Using a video game console

If you are using a video game console device, HP recommends that you connect it directly to your display device using video signal switching hardware (not included) or connect it to a separate TV, rather than connecting it directly to the PC.

A note describes important information.

Before Getting Started 1

Important Safety Information About Your HP Media Center PC

Please read the “Safety Information” section in the

Warranty and Support Guide that

came with your PC before installing and connecting your PC to the electrical power system.

This product has not been evaluated for connection to an “IT” power system (an AC distribution system with no direct connection to the earth, according to IEC 60950).

Finding Guides on Your PC and on the Web

Onscreen guides

Onscreen guides are available in the User’s Guides folder on your PC (select models only).

Click Start on the taskbar, choose All Programs,

User’s Guides, and then click an item to view.

Online guides

You can find guides and information for your PC using the Internet to access the Support Web site. Online manuals are associated with specific PC model numbers. Some models do not have online manuals.

1 Go to http://www.hp.com/support in

your Web browser.

2 Select your country/region and language. 3 From the Support and Drivers page, click See

support and troubleshooting information, enter the model number of your PC, and then click Search.

4 Click Manuals. 5 Locate the manual you want and do one of the

following:

■ Click the title to display the file in Adobe

Acrobat Reader (you can download it from the Manuals page if it is not currently installed on your PC).

2 HP Media Center PC Getting Started Guide

■ Right-click the title, select Save Target

As, specify a location on your PC where

you want to save the file, rename the file (retaining the .pdf extension), and then click Save.

Using the PC with Safety and Comfort

Before you begin using the PC, arrange the PC and your work area to maintain your comfort and productivity. Refer to the Safety & Comfort Guide for important ergonomic information:

■ Click Start, choose All Programs, choose

User’s Guides, and then click Safety & Comfort Guide.

Using PC Help & Tools

HP provides special utility programs in the PC Help & Tools folder that provide support information and initiate Application or System Recovery. To find these programs, click Start, choose All Programs, PC Help & Tools, and then select a program or folder to view.

Connecting to the Internet

As part of the startup screens, you can select an Internet service provider (ISP). Before you can connect to the Internet, you must sign up with an ISP. You must have an Internet connection to use some of the Media Center features.

■ Type http://www.hp.com/ergo into your

Web browser address box, and then press Enter on the keyboard.

Easy Internet Sign-up helps you sign up for a new Internet account, set up an existing account, or configure Internet access using a LAN (local area network), cable modem, or DSL (digital subscriber line).

To reduce the risk of serious injury, read the Safety & Comfort Guide. It describes proper workstation setup, posture, and health and work habits for PC users. It also provides important electrical and mechanical safety information.

Easy Internet Sign-up or Internet Services provides a list of Internet service providers; however, you may choose another ISP or transfer an existing account to this PC. To transfer existing accounts, follow the instructions provided by the ISP.

Connecting to the Internet requirements

■ A PC.

■ A dial-up modem or a cable or DSL modem

for high-speed broadband connections. Contact your ISP for any specific software and hardware you may need.

■ Internet service with an ISP.

■ A Web browser.

A modem connector is included with select models only.

Before Getting Started 3

To set up and connect to the Internet:

1 Make sure the modem or other Internet access

cable is connected.

2 Sign up with an ISP. If you already have an

account with an ISP, skip this step and follow the instructions provided by the ISP. If Internet service was not set up during the initial setup of the PC, it can be set up now using the Easy Internet Sign-up or the Internet Services wizard (select models only).

3 Click Start on the taskbar, choose All

Programs, Online Services, and then click Easy Internet Sign-up or Internet Services.

4 Follow the onscreen instructions to select an

ISP and set up Internet service.

5 Connect to the Internet. You must connect

through the ISP to connect to the Internet. Double-click the ISP-provided icon on the desktop.

6 Open your Web browser and browse the

Web. You can use any Web browser; most PCs have Internet Explorer. Click Start, All

Programs, and Internet Explorer.

Configuring and Registering Norton Internet Security Software

Norton Internet Security software is preinstalled on your PC and includes a complimentary 60-day subscription to protection updates. You can enable Symantec’s LiveUpdate™ to obtain protection updates automatically whenever you are online.

When you first set up the PC, the Norton Internet Security Information Wizard helps you to configure and register your copy of Norton Internet Security.

Be sure to set up Norton Internet Security before you start surfing the Internet. Just click the Norton Internet Security icon after you’ve established an Internet service account, and a wizard will guide you through the simple setup process.

1 Double click the Norton Internet

Security icon in the system tray to

launch the Configuration Wizard.

2 Click Next and follow the instructions to:

■ Complete registration.

■ Schedule post-installation tasks including

running LiveUpdate™, scanning for viruses, and scheduling weekly scans of local hard drives.

4 HP Media Center PC Getting Started Guide

3 On the Summary page, click Finish. 4 When registration and initial setup is finished,

Norton Internet Security automatically begins the post-installation tasks you selected.

For information about using and updating the Norton Internet Security software, click Start, All Programs, Norton Internet Security, and then click Help and Support.

Signing Up for Software Updates

Updates from HP

HP may send support information or special offers to your desktop (not available in all countries/regions). You must be connected to the Internet to receive these messages.

Messages arrive while you are connected to the Internet and display an alert or a notice on your desktop. You can view the messages as they arrive or read them later. Most Support updates delivered by Updates from HP messages are also available to you through the Support Web site under information for your PC model.

Automatic Updates

Microsoft continually updates the Windows operating system. It is recommended that you check for, download, and install these updates at least monthly. Take advantage of the Automatic Updates feature, a convenient way to keep the operating system up to date. When you are connected to the Internet, Windows Update automatically notifies you through a pop-up message or icon in the notification area when critical updates are available. When you see the Windows Update message, allow the updates to download to the system. If you update the system weekly, or at least monthly, the time required for download is minimal.

If you have turned off the Updates from HP feature, you will not receive these updates. To turn Updates from HP back on, click Start, choose

All Programs, PC Help & Tools, Updates from HP.

In the Automatic Updates window, select the desired configuration:

■ Automatic (recommended) — This is the

default setting, and it allows you to specify a day and time to automatically download and install recommended updates.

■ Download updates for me, but let me choose

when to install them.

■ Notify me but don’t automatically download

or install them.

To configure Automatic Updates:

■ Click Start, Control Panel, Other

Control Panel Options, and then Automatic Updates.

The Turn off Automatic Updates option makes the PC more vulnerable and is not recommended.

Before Getting Started 5

Getting messages

After you view or close a message, it will not automatically display again.

To read a previously received message, open Updates from HP:

1 Click Start on the taskbar. 2 Choose All Programs. 3 Choose PC Help & Tools. 4 Click Updates from HP. Updates from HP

displays.

Turning off messages

You cannot receive Updates from HP messages, including important information that may be critical to the operation of your PC, while the service is off.

To turn off the Updates from HP Service:

1 Click Start on the taskbar. 2 Choose All Programs. 3 Choose PC Help & Tools.

■ If Updates from HP has been activated on

your system, click View messages to view a list of previously received messages. To read a message, double-click the message title in the window. You can exit this window, and Updates from HP remains active.

■ If Updates from HP has not been activated on

your system, the screen contains an Activate button to activate the service. Click Activate to start the service and view a list of messages that may have been received previously.

4 Click Updates from HP. Updates from HP

displays.

5 Click Choose preferences and then

Deactivate to deactivate the service. The

service is turned off until you reactivate it.

6 HP Media Center PC Getting Started Guide

Setting Up Accounts on Your New PC

User accounts allow you to set the privileges for each user of your PC. For example, you can set the software programs that each user is allowed to access. Follow the simple steps in this section when setting up your PC to create user accounts.

Creating user accounts

The information below describes the different account types in Windows XP and explains how to change account types.

Creating multiple user accounts on the same PC has certain advantages as well as some drawbacks.

■ Advantages to multiple user accounts:

■ Ability to create individual user settings

■ Ability to limit access to software for

certain users

■ Drawbacks to multiple user accounts:

■ More memory (RAM) usage

■ Multiple Temporary Internet Files folders to

remove during disk cleanup

■ More data to back up

■ Longer time to complete virus scan

Windows XP provides three types of user accounts:

■ Administrative

Allowed to change account types for other users, change passwords, change systemwide settings, and install Windows XP-compatible software and drivers.

■ Limited

Not allowed to change other user settings, or passwords. Limited account may not be able to install or run some software.

Allowed to change the limited account picture, and create, edit, or delete the account password.

■ Guest

Not allowed to change other user settings or passwords.

Users who log on to the PC using the guest account do not have access to password-protected files, folders, and settings.

Before Getting Started 7

Creating passwords

Passwords help protect your PC and information from unauthorized access and help ensure that information on the PC stays private and secure. Use the following list as a basic guide when choosing your password:

After you’ve completed registering, you may install any software programs that may have come on CDs or DVDs included in the PC box and are not preinstalled.

Only use licensed original software. Installing copied software may be illegal, may result in an unstable installation, or may infect your PC with a virus.

■ Choose a password that is easy for you to

remember but difficult for others to guess.

■ Choose a long password (minimum of 6

characters).

■ Use a combination of uppercase and

lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.

■ Don’t use personal information that others can

easily figure out, such as your birthday, child’s name, or phone number.

■ Don’t write down your password.

Installing Software and Hardware Devices

After you set up the PC, you may wish to install additional software programs or hardware devices. Keep in mind these important guidelines:

■ Before installation, make a restore point using

the Microsoft System Restore program.

■ Click Start, All Programs, PC Help &

Too ls, and then System Restore.

■ The restore point is a snapshot of your PC

configuration. By using System Restore, you ensure that you have a point to return to before an issue occurred. For information about System Restore, refer to the Microsoft Web site at:

http://www.microsoft.com/worldwide

■ Choose software that is compatible with your

PC — check the operating system, memory, and other requirements listed for the new software for compatibility with your PC.

■ Install the new software according to the

directions provided by the software manufacturer. Check the manufacturer’s documentation or customer service information for help if you need it.

■ For antivirus software, uninstall the existing

software program before reinstalling it or installing a new antivirus program.

8 HP Media Center PC Getting Started Guide

Transferring Files and Settings from Your Old PC to You r Ne w PC

You can copy the old PC files to the new PC using media such as CD or DVD discs, Memory Sticks, or personal media drives. You can also copy certain settings such as Web browser Favorites and address books using Microsoft’s Files and Settings Transfer Wizard.

For more information click Start, All Programs, and then Help and Support.

Search for transfer wizard, and select the overview article, “Files and Settings Transfer Wizard overview.” This information describes a Microsoft solution for moving your files onto your new PC.

HP Products Work Better Together

HP computers include preloaded software for select HP All-In-One, camera, scanner, and printer peripheral products. Preloaded software simplifies and speeds product setup for HP peripherals.

Simply connect the HP peripheral product and turn it on, and your HP PC automatically configures it so it is ready to use.

Protecting the PC

HP provides a virus-scanning software program to help protect your PC (select models only).

The virus-scanning program manufacturer provides free virus scan updates through your Internet connection for an initial period after your PC purchase. You can purchase a subscription service for updates after the initial free period expires.

If a software program or the operating system gets damaged, reinstall the software. See the PC Troubleshooting and Maintenance Guide that came with your PC for information about System Recovery, Application Recovery and System Restore. System Restore is a software that creates restore points, memory of the system file settings on the PC at a particular point in time.

New types of viruses and spyware are invented all the time. Protect your PC by getting regular updates of your virus-scanning software from the program manufacturer.

When your PC has software problems, it is possible that a voltage spike, power outage, or brownout has occurred. Symptoms of voltage spikes include a flickering video display, unexpected PC startups, and the PC not responding to your commands. A voltage spike can occasionally corrupt or destroy files, so it is a good idea to consistently make backup copies of your data files. Prevent voltage spikes by installing a surge suppressor made for use with PCs between the power outlet and the PC power cord.

Before Getting Started 9

Installing Software

After you’ve completed registering, you may install any software programs that may have come on CDs or DVDs included in the PC box and are not preinstalled.

After you turn on the PC the first time and restart it, you can install any software programs that came on CDs or DVDs included in the PC box and are not preinstalled (select models only).

You may wish to install additional software programs or hardware devices on your PC. Restart the PC after each installation.

Getting Help

If you need more information about using or

troubleshooting Media Center, refer to the Media Center online Help or Help and Support in the Start menu.

For help on general and miscellaneous problems you may be experiencing with the PC, refer to:

■ The other troubleshooting documentation that

came with your PC.

■ The pages in this section.

■ The topics in Help and Support. Press the Help

button on your keyboard, or click Start on the taskbar and select Help and Support.

Choose software that is compatible with your PC; check the operating system, memory, and other requirements listed for the new software for compatibility with your PC.

Install the new software according to the directions provided by the software manufacturer. Check the manufacturer’s documentation or customer service information for help if you need it.

10 HP Media Center PC Getting Started Guide

Setting Up the PC

Follow the steps in the setup poster to set up the PC, and then read the topics in this section to find out more about the location of components and connectors on your PC, and to find out about some setup alternatives.

Most of the hardware devices such as the monitor, keyboard, printer, and mouse can be connected at the back of the PC. Some peripheral devices, such as a digital video camera, can be plugged into the connectors on the back or the front of the PC.

HP Media Center PC Front Connectors

Connector Icon/label Description and function

S-video

Video

S-Video 2

Composite Video 2

A/V In Audio 2 L

Secondary S-video connector to connect your VCR, video camera, or other analog source to the PC.

Secondary Composite video connector (yellow) to connect to a VCR, video camera, or other analog source to the PC.

Secondary Left audio input connector (white).

NOTE: This Audio In connector is connected to the TV tuner. You must use the Audio In connector, which is connected to the motherboard and located on the back of the PC, to record audio only. (Select models only.)

Location, availability, and number of connectors may vary.

A/V In Audio 2 R

Secondary Right audio input connector (red).

Headphones Out connector (green) to connect to headphones.

Microphone In connector (pink) to connect to a microphone.

Setting Up the PC 11

Connector Icon/label Description and function (Continued)

Universal Serial Bus (USB) 2.0 connector to connect to a mouse, keyboard, digital camera, or another device with a USB connector.

FireWire other devices with very fast transfer rates.

NOTE: You must use a 6-pin FireWire (IEEE 1394) transfer cable with this 6-pin connector.

(IEEE 1394) connector to connect video cameras and

HP Media Center PC Rear Connectors

Connector Icon/label Description and function

Power connector

Mouse connector to connect a mouse.

Keyboard connector to connect a keyboard.

Printer (parallel) connector to connect a parallel printer.

(Select models only)

12 HP Media Center PC Getting Started Guide

Universal Serial Bus (USB) 2.0 connector to connect a mouse, keyboard, digital camera, or another device with a USB connector.

FireWire (IEEE 1394) connector to connect video cameras and other devices with very fast transfer rates.

NOTE: You must use a 6-pin FireWire (IEEE 1394) transfer cable with this 6-pin connector.

Connector Icon/label Description and function (Continued)

ETHERNET

ETHERNET Ethernet LAN connector is a network interface adapter (also called

a network interface card, or NIC) which connects to an Ethernet (10BaseT) or Fast Ethernet (100BaseT) network hub. Connect this adapter in your PC to your local area network (LAN) hub or any broadband connection.

The green LED indicates a valid connection.

Digital video output connector to connect a TV or monitor.

(select models only)

See the documentation that came with your display device.

Microphone In (Mic) (pink) to connect to a microphone. The Mic connector also functions as a center/subwoofer Line Out when a multichannel audio configuration is activated.

OUT

Audio Line Out (green) to connect front speakers.

OUT

Audio Line In (blue) connector to connect to an analog audio device such as a CD player for input into PC. The Audio Line In connector

also functions as rear Line Out when a multichannel audio configuration is activated.

Center Line C/Sub (gold) connector to connect Center/Subwoofer

speakers in a multichannel audio configuration.

Rear Line Rear (black) connector to connect rear speakers in a

multichannel audio configuration.

Side Line Side (gray) connector to connect side speakers in an eight-

speaker system (7.1).

S-Video S-video In connector to connect from a set-top box output connector.

Composite Video

Composite Video In connector (yellow) to connect to a TV set-top box.

Setting Up the PC 13

Connector Icon/label Description and function (Continued)

A/V In

Primary left audio input from set-top box connector (white). Audio 1 L

NOTE: Audio can be recorded by using this Audio In connector,

which is connected to the motherboard. Some PC models include

this primary left audio input connector on the front of the PC.

(Select models only.)

A/V In

Primary right audio input from set-top box connector (red). Audio 1 R

NOTE: Audio can be recorded by using this Audio In connector

which is connected to the motherboard. Some PC models include

this primary right audio input connector on the front of the PC.

(Select models only.)

TV/Cable Ant

TV In (TV antenna or cable input from wall outlet with no

set-top box).

FM Ant FM In (radio antenna input) connects to the FM antenna cable.

Plug the FM radio antenna cable into the FM In port on the back of

the PC on the TV tuner card. You may want to extend the ends of the

cable to improve your FM radio signal reception.

Modem (Line In RJ-11) (select models only).

LINE

Plug the modem cable (provided in the PC box) into the computer

modem connector on the back of the PC. Plug the other end to your

telephone line wall jack connector.

Analog Video

Analog Video Out: S-video or composite video (select models only)

connects to a TV.

VGA Monitor/VGA (blue) display output connector connects to a VGA

Digital Audio

In and Out

DIGITAL

AUDIO OUT

Digital Audio Out

14 HP Media Center PC Getting Started Guide

monitor.

Digital audio input (white) connects to a digital audio device with

digital input (such as a home audio receiver/amplifier) or digital

speakers (select models only).

Digital audio output (red) connects to a digital audio device with

digital output (select models only).

Digital Out (orange) connects to a digital audio device with digital

input (such as a home audio receiver/amplifier) or digital speakers

(select models only).

Connecting a Digital Video Camera to the PC

The following instructions only apply to digital cameras.

See the documentation that came with your digital camera or your digital video camera.

To connect a digital camera or a digital video camera:

1 Turn on the PC, and wait for Windows XP

to start.

If the PC does not recognize your digital camera or your digital video camera:

1 Click Start on the taskbar, and then click

Control Panel.

When connecting an analog video camera to the PC, use the Video and Audio In connectors on the front or back of the PC.

2 Connect the 6-pin video camera transfer cable

into the camera and then into an open port on the front or back of the PC. Most digital video cameras use either the FireWire (IEEE 1394) or the USB port.

2 Click Performance and Maintenance,

if available, and then double-click the

System icon.

3 Click the Hardware tab, and then click the

Device Manager button.

4 Click the plus sign (+) next to imaging

devices. If the name of the camera appears under imaging devices the device is ready. If the name is not there, try the following:

■ Click Action, and then Scan for

hardware changes. Look in Device

Manager for a new addition under imaging devices.

■ Unplug the video camera’s transfer cable

from the PC, and plug it into a different port. Look in Device Manager for a new addition under imaging devices.

If a Digital Video Device Auto Play window appears when you connect your camera, click Cancel.

You must use a 6-pin (not a 4-pin) FireWire (IEEE 1394) cable with the 6-pin FireWire (IEEE 1394) connector on your HP Media Center PC.

3 A Found New Hardware message appears.

Wait 2 or 3 minutes for Windows to make the necessary settings for the new device. When installation is complete, a message appears telling you the camera is ready to use.

Setting Up the PC 15

Some peripheral devices are not included with the PC.

Connecting to Other Devices

Other peripheral devices can be connected to the front or back of your HP Media Center PC by using USB or FireWire (IEEE 1394) ports. You can connect peripheral devices such as a printer, scanner, video camera, digital camera, memory card reader, and PDA (personal digital assistant) or handheld computer to the PC. See the documentation that came with your device.

16 HP Media Center PC Getting Started Guide

Connecting the Television Signal

Using TV Cables

Your HP Media Center PC includes video and audio cables to connect the television signals.

Use video and audio cables to connect to following:

■ Video out from the HP Media Center PC to

the TV

■ TV signal source video in to the HP Media

Center PC

■ Audio out from the HP Media Center PC to

the TV

■ TV signal source audio in to the HP Media

Center PC

Audio and Video Cables

The following table shows cable types that may be required to connect your HP Media Center PC to your television system.

Cable Name Description

Composite video cable

S-video cable (Delivers a sharper image than composite video by providing separate color and black-and-white image signals.)

RCA yellow end. Plug cable into an RCA connector such as Composite Video Out or TV Source In.

Y/C, 4-pin. Plug cable into an S-video connector such as S-video Video Out or TV Source In.

Location and number of connectors may vary by model.

The number and type of cables required to connect your PC may vary by model. Some cables are included for select models only.

Analog video cable/ adapter (select models only)

Used with analog video output connector. Provides S-video and composite video output.

Connecting the Television Signal 17

Cable Name Description (Continued)

DVI-I or DVI-D cable Digital Video Out. Plug cable into a

DVI-I or DVI-D input of an HDTVcapable TV or monitor.

TV coaxial cable Plug cable into a TV signal source

input connector from cable set-top boxes or antennas.

Remote IR cable (Infrared transmitter) NOTE: PC includes 1 with single TV tuner or 2 with dual-tuner option.

Splitter Used to connect one signal source to

2 Way Splitter

RCA stereo RCA red and white ends. Used for TV

You may need to purchase extra cables separately. Your HP Media Center PC box may not include all the cables you need for your PC setup and may vary by model.

For example, you may want to use an S-video cable to connect the TV Out on the PC to your TV, if your TV has an S-video input connector.

Remote IR cable. Used to control TV signal source from set-top box.

two RF inputs on your PC.

signal source Audio In and Audio Out connectors to TV.

18 HP Media Center PC Getting Started Guide

Connecting the TV Signal Source

Connect the signal source for the TV by using the TV In coaxial connector or the composite/S-video In connector.

Plug the connector of a coaxial cable from your TV cable into the TV/Cable Ant connector on the back of the PC, and then turn the connector to tighten it.

Plug a cable into the S-video or composite video In connector on the back of the PC; use an S-video cable (not provided) or the composite video cable. Plug the other end of the cable into your set-top box or other device that is providing the signal source for the TV.

You must also plug audio cables (not provided) from your set-top box into the Audio In right (red) connector and the Audio In left (white) connector on the back of the PC, if you are using a set-top box with S-video or composite video output.

Refer to “HP Media Center PC Front Connectors” on page 11.

You must also connect the Remote Emitter cable if you are using a set-top box. See “Connecting the Remote Sensor” on page 21.

Location and number of connectors may vary by model.

Connecting the Television Signal 19

Connecting a dual tuner

(Select models only)

The HP Media Center PC records television and allows you to control the television channels. The HP Media Center PC supports two tuner configurations:

TV Tuner Description Requirements

The Television Program Guide is not available in all countries/regions.

Single-tuner TV source

Dual-tuner TV source

Watch or record one program only in NTSC or PAL.

You can watch a show on one channel while Media Center records another show on a different channel. You can also record two different programs at the same time.

■ If you are using a TV antenna or standard cable

connector, the signal is routed to a single tuner.

■ If you are using a TV antenna or standard cable

connector, the signal is routed to both tuners internally.

■ You must connect a second set of inputs if you

are using a cable or satellite set-top box. Otherwise, connect a second set-top box to the second set of back-panel connectors.

■ TV sources must be of the same type: Either

cable TV, digital cable TV, satellite TV, or antenna.

■ The TV sources must also have the same,

identical channel lineup; for example, if you are using two satellite TV sources they must provide the exact same channels.

■ All TV viewing and scheduling is provided

through the Television (Electronic) Program Guide in Media Center, so both TV sources must have identical Television Program Guides.

20 HP Media Center PC Getting Started Guide

Connecting the Remote Sensor

The remote sensor is a small device that connects to the PC and allows the remote control to work with the Media Center program.

1 If you have a cable TV set-top box, a satellite

set-top box, or other set-top box that controls your TV signal, connect the remote control sensor cable (emitter) (A) into connector (1) on the back of the remote sensor; otherwise skip to step 3. Connector (2) can also be used if you have a second set-top box.

2 Remove the paper from the backing tape on

the end of the cable (B), and then press the end of the cable over the remote infrared (IR) receiver window on your cable TV set-top box (C). You can locate the remote infrared receiver window by using a flashlight to shine through the plastic on the front of most devices.

3 Plug the remote control sensor cable into a

USB connector (D) on the back of the PC.

4 Place the remote sensor so that you can easily

point at it with the remote control. (An ideal spot would be on top of the monitor or desk.)

You can locate the remote infrared receiver window on your cable TV set-top box by using a flashlight to shine through the plastic on the front of most devices.

Connecting the Television Signal 21

Connecting the TV Signal Source When You Have an Existing Setup

This section describes how to connect the PC to an existing setup for your TV signal source.

Wall to VCR to TV using coaxial cable

Remove the coaxial cable at the input to the VCR, and connect it to the input of a coaxial cable signal splitter (not included; available at electronics stores). Connect two coaxial cables to the splitter outputs. Connect one of these cables to the input of the VCR and the other one to the TV connector on the back of the PC.

Existing setup Add the PC with a splitter

AWall

BCable outlet

C Coaxial cable

DVCR In

EVCR Out

FTV In

G Splitter In

H Splitter Out

J TV In on back of PC

22 HP Media Center PC Getting Started Guide

+ 60 hidden pages