HP Pavilion 15-b100 User Manual

User Guide

© Copyright 2012 Hewlett-Packard
Development Company, L.P.

Bluetooth is a trademark owned by its
proprietor and used by Hewlett-Packard
Company under license.

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

First Edition: November 2012

Document Part Number: 709332-001

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 for requesting
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 .................................................................................................................................... 1

More HP resources .............................................................................................................................. 2

Finding your hardware and software information ................................................................................. 3

2 Connecting to a network ................................................................................................................................ 4

Connecting to a wireless network ......................................................................................................... 4

Identifying wireless and network status icons ...................................................................... 4

Using the wireless controls .................................................................................................. 4

Using the wireless button .................................................................................... 4

Using operating system controls ......................................................................... 5

Using a WLAN ..................................................................................................................... 5

Using an Internet service provider ...................................................................... 5

Setting up a WLAN .............................................................................................. 5

Configuring a wireless router .............................................................................. 6

Protecting your WLAN ......................................................................................... 6

Connecting to a WLAN ........................................................................................ 7

Using Bluetooth wireless devices ........................................................................................ 7

Connecting to a wired network ............................................................................................................. 7

Connecting to a local area network (LAN) ........................................................................... 7

3 Enjoying entertainment features ................................................................................................................... 9

Using the webcam ................................................................................................................................ 9

Using audio .......................................................................................................................................... 9

Connecting speakers ........................................................................................................... 9

Connecting headphones ...................................................................................................... 9

Connecting a microphone .................................................................................................... 9

Checking the sound ........................................................................................................... 10

Using video ......................................................................................................................................... 10

Connecting a VGA monitor or projector ............................................................................. 10

DisplayPort ........................................................................................................................ 12

Connecting an HDMI TV or monitor ................................................................................... 12

Configuring audio settings (with HDMI TV) ....................................................... 13

v

4 Using the keyboard and pointing devices .................................................................................................. 14

Using the action keys ......................................................................................................................... 14

Using the TouchPad ........................................................................................................................... 15

Navigating .......................................................................................................................... 15

Selecting ............................................................................................................................ 16

Using TouchPad gestures ................................................................................................. 16

Turning gestures on and off .............................................................................. 16

Horizontal scrolling ............................................................................................ 17

Edge scrolling .................................................................................................... 17

5 Managing power ............................................................................................................................................ 18

Shutting down the computer ............................................................................................................... 18

Setting power options ......................................................................................................................... 18

Using power-saving states ................................................................................................. 18

Initiating and exiting Suspend ........................................................................... 19

Initiating and exiting Hibernation ....................................................................... 19

Using the Power icon ......................................................................................................... 20

Using Power Settings ........................................................................................................ 20

Viewing the current Power Settings .................................................................. 20

Changing the current Power Settings ............................................................... 20

Using battery power ........................................................................................................................... 20

Displaying the remaining battery charge ........................................................................... 21

Charging a battery ............................................................................................................. 21

Maximizing battery life ....................................................................................................... 21

Managing low battery levels .............................................................................................. 21

Identifying low battery levels ............................................................................. 22

Resolving a low battery level ............................................................................. 22

Resolving a low battery level when external power is available ....... 22

Resolving a low battery level when a charged battery is available ... 22

Resolving a low battery level when no power source is available .... 22

Resolving a low battery level when the computer cannot exit

Hibernation ....................................................................................... 22

Conserving battery power .................................................................................................. 22

Storing a battery ................................................................................................................ 22

Disposing of a used battery ............................................................................................... 23

Replacing the battery ......................................................................................................... 23

Using external AC power .................................................................................................................... 23

Testing an AC adapter ....................................................................................................... 24

6 Managing and sharing information ............................................................................................................. 25

Using a USB device ........................................................................................................................... 25

vi

Connecting a USB device .................................................................................................. 25

Removing a USB device .................................................................................................... 26

Inserting and removing a digital storage card .................................................................................... 27

Using optical drives ............................................................................................................................ 28

Inserting an optical disc ..................................................................................................... 28

Tray-load ........................................................................................................... 28

Slot-load ............................................................................................................ 29

Removing an optical disc ................................................................................................... 29

Tray-load ........................................................................................................... 29

When the disc tray opens normally .................................................. 29

When the disc tray fails to open normally ......................................... 30

Slot-load ............................................................................................................ 31

7 Maintaining your computer .......................................................................................................................... 32

Updating programs and drivers .......................................................................................................... 32

Cleaning your computer ..................................................................................................................... 32

Cleaning the display, sides, and cover .............................................................................. 32

Cleaning the TouchPad and keyboard .............................................................................. 33

Traveling with or shipping your computer ........................................................................................... 33

8 Securing your computer and information .................................................................................................. 35

Protecting the computer ..................................................................................................................... 35

Using passwords ................................................................................................................................ 35

Setting passwords in the operating system ....................................................................... 36

Setting passwords in Setup Utility (BIOS) ......................................................................... 36

Managing an administrator password ............................................................... 37

Entering an administrator password .................................................................. 37

Managing a power-on password ....................................................................... 37

Entering a power-on password ......................................................................... 37

Using Internet security software ......................................................................................................... 38

Using antivirus software ..................................................................................................... 38

Using firewall software ....................................................................................................... 38

Securing your wireless network .......................................................................................................... 38

Backing up your software applications and information ..................................................................... 39

Using an optional security cable lock ................................................................................................. 39

9 Using Setup Utility (BIOS) and System Diagnostics ................................................................................. 40

Starting Setup Utility ........................................................................................................................... 40

Using Setup Utility .............................................................................................................................. 40

Changing the language of Setup Utility ............................................................................. 40

vii

Navigating and selecting in Setup Utility ............................................................................ 40

Displaying system information ........................................................................................... 41

Restoring factory default settings in Setup Utility .............................................................. 41

Exiting Setup Utility ............................................................................................................ 41

Updating the BIOS ............................................................................................................................. 41

Determining the BIOS version ........................................................................................... 41

Downloading a BIOS update ............................................................................................. 42

Using System Diagnostics .................................................................................................................. 43

10 Backing up, restoring, and recovering ..................................................................................................... 44

Performing a system recovery ............................................................................................................ 44

Creating the restore DVDs ................................................................................................. 44

Creating a restore image on a USB device ....................................................................... 44

Performing recovery using the restore DVD ...................................................................... 45

Backing up your information ............................................................................................................... 45

11 Support ........................................................................................................................................................ 47

Contacting support ............................................................................................................................. 47

Labels ................................................................................................................................................. 47

12 Specifications .............................................................................................................................................. 49

Input power ......................................................................................................................................... 49

Operating environment ....................................................................................................................... 50

13 Electrostatic Discharge .............................................................................................................................. 51

Index ................................................................................................................................................................... 52

viii

1 Starting right

IMPORTANT: The Ubuntu operating system installed on this computer does not support some of

the features that are available on other operating systems. For example, Ubuntu may not support
discrete graphics or mSATA drives.

This computer is a powerful tool designed to enhance your work and entertainment. To get the most
out of your computer, read this chapter to learn about best practices after setup, fun things to do with
your computer, and where to go to get more HP resources.

Best practices

To protect 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

Connecting

to a network on page 4.

●

Become familiar with the computer hardware and software. Go to

Finding your hardware and
software information on page 3 and Enjoying entertainment features on page 9 for

information.

●

Update or purchase antivirus software. Learn more at

Using antivirus software on page 38.

●

Back up your hard drive by creating recovery discs or a recovery flash drive. See

Backing up,

restoring, and recovering on page 44.

Fun things to do

● You know you can watch a YouTube video on the computer. But did you know that you can also

connect your computer to a TV and watch the video on TV? For more information, see

Connecting an HDMI TV or monitor on page 12.

●

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

Using

audio on page 9.

●

You know you can create a powerful presentation with your computer. But did you know you can
also connect to a projector to share your ideas with a group? See

Connecting a VGA monitor or
projector on page 10.

Best practices 1

More HP resources

You have already used Setup Instructions to turn on the computer and locate this guide. For product
details, how-to information, and more, use this table.

Resource Contents

Setup Instructions

●

Overview of computer setup and features.

Ubuntu Desktop Guide

To access this guide, press the f1 key.

●

A broad range of how-to information and troubleshooting tips.

Safety & Comfort Guide

To access this guide, double-click the HP Documents
icon located on the desktop, or go to

http://www.hp.com/ergo.

●

Proper workstation setup.

●

Guidelines for posture and work habits that increase your
comfort and decrease your risk of injury.

●

Electrical and mechanical safety information.

Worldwide support

To get support in your language, go to

http://welcome.hp.com/country/us/en/
wwcontact_us.html.

● Chat online with an HP technician.

●

Email support.

●

Find worldwide support telephone numbers.

● Locate HP service center locations.

Regulatory, Safety and Environmental Notices

To access this guide, double-click the HP Documents
icon located on the desktop.

●

Important regulatory notices, including proper battery disposal
information.

Limited Warranty*

To access the warranty, double-click the HP
Documents icon located on the desktop, or go to

http://www.hp.com/go/orderdocuments.

●

Specific warranty information about this computer.

*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

http://www.hp.com/go/orderdocuments or write to:

●

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 part 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

http://www.hp.com/go/

contactHP. For worldwide support, go to http://welcome.hp.com/country/us/en/wwcontact_us.html.

2 Chapter 1 Starting right

Finding your hardware and software information

1. Click the System menu icon at the far right of the top panel, and then click System Settings.

2. Select the Details icon from the System section.

The Overview displays all the devices installed in your computer, including optical drives, solid-state
drives (SSDs), or a secondary hard drive.

To find out what software is included on your computer:

1. Click the Ubuntu Software Center button located on the left side of the desktop in the

Launcher, and then click Installed at the top of window to display software categories.

2. Click a software category to display the installed software for that category.

Finding your hardware and software information 3

2 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—Creates a personal area network (PAN) to connect to other Bluetooth­enabled 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.

Identifying wireless and network status icons

Icon Name Description

Wireless (connected) Indicates that one or more wireless devices are on.

Network Connection
(connected)

Indicates that the wired network is connected and active. If both
wired and wireless connections are active, the operating system
uses the wired connection because it is faster.

Network Connection
(disconnected)

Indicates that wired and wireless networks are not connected.

Using the wireless controls

Your computer may be equipped with one or more of the following wireless devices. 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

Depending on your model, the computer may have a wireless button, one or more wireless devices,
and one or more wireless lights. 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.

4 Chapter 2 Connecting to a network

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 amber, all wireless devices are off.

Because the wireless devices are enabled at the factory, you can use the wireless button to turn on or
turn off the wireless devices simultaneously. Individual wireless devices can be controlled by clicking
on the Network menu icon at the far right of the top panel, and then clicking Edit Connections.

Using operating system controls

To enable or disable a wireless or wired network device:

1. Click the Network menu icon at the far right of the top panel.

2. To enable or disable one of the following devices, select or clear one of the following options:

●

Enable Networking (all network devices)

● Enable Wireless

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: When creating a wireless connection or allowing access to users in a network, you are

prompted for the root password.

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 computer 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.

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)

Connecting to a wireless network 5

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 in a
hotspot, limit your network activities to email that is not confidential and to 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. Ubuntu does not include firewall software, but you can download
Gufw, a free firewall utility that Ubuntu provides. For information on how to download and install
Gufw, refer to

Using firewall software on page 38.

●

Use wireless encryption.

Wireless encryption uses security settings to encrypt and decrypt data that is transmitted over
the network.

6 Chapter 2 Connecting to a network

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 amber, press the wireless button.

2. Click the Network menu icon at the far right of the top panel.

Available wireless networks are listed under Wireless Networks.

3. Click the desired wireless network.

If the network is a security-enabled WLAN, you are prompted to enter a network security code.
Type the code, and then click OK to complete the connection.

NOTE: To connect to a network that is not automatically detected, click the Network menu

icon and select Connect to Hidden Wireless Network. Enter the ESSID information, and set
encryption parameters.

NOTE: If no WLANs are listed, and your network is not hidden, you are out of range of a

wireless router or access point.

If you do not see the network you want to connect to, click the Network menu icon at the far
right of the top panel, and click Edit Connections.

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

Your computer may have a Bluetooth device depending on the model. 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 personal area network
(PAN) of Bluetooth devices. For information about configuring and using Bluetooth devices, see the
Bluetooth software Help.

Connecting to a wired network

Connecting to a LAN requires an 8-pin, RJ-45 network cable.

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

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

Connecting to a local area network (LAN)

Use a LAN connection if you want to connect the computer directly to a router in your home (instead
of working wirelessly), or if you want to connect to an existing wired network at your office.

Connecting to a wired network 7

To connect the network cable, follow these steps:

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

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

NOTE: If the network cable contains noise suppression circuitry (3), which prevents

interference from TV and radio reception, orient the circuitry end of the cable toward the
computer.

8 Chapter 2 Connecting to a network

3 Enjoying entertainment features

Use your HP computer as an entertainment hub to socialize via the webcam, enjoy and manage your
music, and download and watch movies. Or, to make your computer an even more powerful
entertainment center, connect external devices like a monitor, a projector, a TV, speakers,
headphones, and, on select models, high-definition devices.

Using the webcam

Your computer may have an integrated webcam. A webcam is a powerful social networking tool that
allows you to communicate up close with friends and colleagues next door or on the other side of the
world. With the webcam, you can stream video with your instant messaging software, and with the
preinstalled software, guvcview, you can capture and share video and take still photos.

NOTE: For details about using your webcam, click the Help menu in the guvcview software.

Using audio

On HP computers that include an optical drive, you can play music CDs, download and listen to
music, stream audio content from the web (including radio), record audio, or mix audio and video to
create multimedia. To enhance your listening enjoyment, attach external audio devices such as
speakers or headphones.

Connecting speakers

You can attach wired speakers to your computer by connecting them to USB ports (or the audio-out
jack) on your computer or on a docking station.

To connect wireless speakers to your computer, follow the device manufacturer's instructions. To
connect high-definition speakers to the computer, see

Configuring audio settings (with HDMI TV)

on page 13. Before connecting audio devices, be sure to adjust the volume.

Connecting headphones

You can connect wired headphones to the headphone jack on your computer.

To connect wireless headphones to your computer, follow the device manufacturer's instructions.

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

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

Connecting a microphone

To record audio, connect a microphone to the microphone jack on the computer. For best results
when recording, speak directly into the microphone in a setting free of background noise.

Using the webcam 9

Checking the sound

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

1. Click the System menu icon at the far right of the top panel, and then click System Settings >

Sound icon.

2. Click the Sound Effects tab, and then select one of the sound options under Choose an alert

sound to test each sound.

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

1. Click the System menu icon at the far right of the top panel, and then click System Settings >

Sound icon.

2. Click the Input tab, and then select Line in or Internal Microphone from the Record sound

from panel on the left side of the window.

3. Adjust the input volume by moving the Input volume slider to the desired setting.

NOTE: For best results when recording, speak directly into the microphone in a setting free of

background noise.

To confirm or change the audio settings on your computer, click the Sound menu icon at the right of
the top panel.

Using video

Your HP computer is a powerful video device that enables you to watch streaming video from your
favorite websites and download video and movies to watch on your computer, without needing to
access a network.

To enhance your viewing enjoyment, use one of the video ports on the computer to connect an
external monitor, projector, or TV. Most computers have a video graphics array (VGA) port, which
connects analog video devices. Some computers have a DisplayPort, which connects an optional
digital display device, such as a high-performance monitor or projector. Also, some computers have a
high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI) port, which allows you to connect a high-definition monitor
or TV.

IMPORTANT: Be sure that the external device is connected to the correct port on the computer,

using the correct cable. Check the device manufacturer's instructions if you have questions.

Connecting a VGA monitor or projector

To see the computer screen image on an external VGA monitor or projected for a presentation,
connect a monitor or projector to the computer's VGA port.

NOTE: Adjust the screen resolution of the external device. Click the System menu icon at the far

right of the top panel, click Displays, and then select a resolution from the drop-down menu next to
Resolution. Click Apply to apply any changes.

10 Chapter 3 Enjoying entertainment features

To connect a monitor or projector:

1. Connect the VGA cable from the monitor or projector to the VGA port on the computer as

shown.

2. Press f4 to alternate the screen image between 3 display states:

NOTE: Depending on your model, the function key for this operation may vary.

●

PC Screen only: View the screen image on the computer only.

●

Duplicate: View the screen image simultaneously on both the computer and external
device.

●

Extend: View the screen image extended across both the computer and external device.

●

Second screen only: View the screen image on the external device only.

Each time you press f4, the display state changes.

If your external monitor is not detected after pressing f4, follow these steps:

1. Click the System menu icon at the far right of the top panel, and then click Displays.

2. Click the Detect Displays button.

3. Click the On radio button beneath the display layout. If the default monitor is not detected, set

the resolution and the refresh rate using your external monitor specifications. Change the
rotation if desired. If the display requires mirroring, click the Mirror Displays check box.

4. After the settings are configured, click Apply, and then click OK. Your computer may require

rebooting.

Using video 11