HP Pavilion dm3-2010us User Manual
HP Pavilion Entertainment PC
User Guide
© Copyright 2010 Hewlett-Packard
Development Company, L.P.
Bluetooth is a trademark owned by its
proprietor and used by Hewlett-Packard
Company under license. 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: June 2010
First Edition: May 2010
Document Part Number: 602650-002
Product notice
This user guide describes features that are
common to most models. Some features
may not be available on your computer.
To obtain the latest version of the
, go to the HP Web site at
Guide
http://www.hp.com/support.
User
Safety warning notice
WARNING! To reduce the possibility of heat-related injuries or of overheating the computer, do not
place the computer directly on your lap or obstruct the computer air vents. Use the computer only on
a hard, flat surface. Do not allow another hard surface, such as an adjoining optional printer, or a soft
surface, such as pillows or rugs or clothing, to block airflow. Also, do not allow the AC adapter to
contact the skin or a soft surface, such as pillows or rugs or clothing, during operation. The computer
and the AC adapter comply with the user-accessible surface temperature limits defined by the
International Standard for Safety of Information Technology Equipment (IEC 60950).
iii
iv Safety warning notice
Table of contents
1 Getting started ................................................................................................................................................ 1
Using HP QuickWeb (select models only) ............................................................................................ 1
2 Features ........................................................................................................................................................... 2
Identifying hardware ............................................................................................................................. 2
Components ......................................................................................................................................... 2
Top components .................................................................................................................. 2
TouchPad ............................................................................................................ 2
Lights ................................................................................................................... 3
Keys .................................................................................................................... 4
Front components ................................................................................................................ 5
Right-side components ........................................................................................................ 5
Left-side components .......................................................................................................... 6
Bottom components ............................................................................................................. 8
Display components ............................................................................................................ 9
Wireless antennas ............................................................................................................. 10
Additional hardware components ...................................................................................... 11
Labels ................................................................................................................................................. 11
3 Wireless and local area networks ............................................................................................................... 13
Using wireless devices ....................................................................................................................... 13
Identifying wireless and network status icons .................................................................... 13
Using the wireless controls ................................................................................................ 14
Using the wireless button ................................................................................................... 14
Using Wireless Assistant software ..................................................................................... 15
Using HP Connection Manager (select models only) ........................................................ 15
Using operating system controls ........................................................................................ 15
Using a WLAN .................................................................................................................................... 16
Setting up a WLAN ............................................................................................................ 16
Protecting your WLAN ....................................................................................................... 16
Roaming to another network .............................................................................................. 17
Using HP Mobile Broadband (select models only) ............................................................................. 17
Inserting a SIM ................................................................................................................... 18
Removing a SIM ................................................................................................................ 19
Using Bluetooth wireless devices ....................................................................................................... 19
Bluetooth and Internet Connection Sharing (ICS) ............................................................. 20
Troubleshooting wireless connection problems ................................................................................. 20
Cannot connect to a WLAN ............................................................................................... 20
v
Cannot connect to a preferred WLAN network .................................................................. 21
Network icon for WLAN is not displayed ............................................................................ 21
Current WLAN network security codes are unavailable .................................................... 21
WLAN connection is very weak ......................................................................................... 22
Cannot connect to the wireless router ............................................................................... 22
Connecting to a local area network (LAN) .......................................................................................... 22
4 Pointing devices and keyboard ................................................................................................................... 24
Using pointing devices ....................................................................................................................... 24
Setting pointing device preferences ................................................................................... 24
Using the TouchPad .......................................................................................................... 24
Two-finger scrolling ........................................................................................... 24
Rotating (select models only) ............................................................................ 25
Pinching (select models only) ........................................................................... 25
Using the action keys ......................................................................................................................... 26
Using the hotkeys ............................................................................................................................... 27
Using keypads .................................................................................................................................... 28
Using the embedded numeric keypad ............................................................................... 29
Enabling and disabling the embedded numeric keypad .................................... 29
Switching key functions on the embedded numeric keypad ............................. 30
Using an optional external numeric keypad ....................................................................... 30
Cleaning the TouchPad and keyboard ............................................................................................... 30
5 Multimedia ..................................................................................................................................................... 31
Multimedia features ............................................................................................................................ 31
Adjusting the volume ......................................................................................................... 31
Using the media activity keys ............................................................................................ 32
Multimedia software ........................................................................................................................... 32
Using HP MediaSmart software ......................................................................................... 33
Using multimedia software ................................................................................................. 33
Installing multimedia software from a disc ......................................................................... 33
Audio .................................................................................................................................................. 33
Connecting external audio devices .................................................................................... 34
Checking your audio functions ........................................................................................... 34
Video .................................................................................................................................................. 35
Connecting an external monitor or projector ...................................................................... 35
Connecting an HDMI device .............................................................................................. 35
Configuring audio for HDMI (select models only) .............................................. 36
Webcam ............................................................................................................................................. 36
Webcam tips ...................................................................................................................... 37
Adjusting webcam properties ............................................................................................. 37
vi
6 Power management ...................................................................................................................................... 38
Setting power devices ........................................................................................................................ 38
Using power-saving states ................................................................................................. 38
Initiating and exiting Sleep ................................................................................ 38
Initiating and exiting Hibernation ....................................................................... 39
Using the battery meter ..................................................................................................... 39
Using power plans ............................................................................................................. 39
Viewing the current power plan ......................................................................... 39
Selecting a different power plan ........................................................................ 40
Customizing power plans .................................................................................. 40
Setting password protection on wakeup ............................................................................ 40
Using external AC power .................................................................................................................... 40
Connecting AC power ........................................................................................................ 41
Testing an AC adapter ....................................................................................................... 41
Using battery power ........................................................................................................................... 42
Finding battery information in Help and Support ............................................................... 42
Using Battery Check .......................................................................................................... 42
Displaying the remaining battery charge ........................................................................... 43
Inserting or removing the battery ....................................................................................... 43
Charging a battery ............................................................................................................. 44
Maximizing battery discharge time .................................................................................... 45
Managing low battery levels .............................................................................................. 45
Identifying low battery levels ............................................................................. 45
Resolving a low battery level ............................................................................. 46
Resolving a low battery level when external power is available ....... 46
Resolving a low battery level when a charged battery is available ... 46
Resolving a low battery level when no power source is available .... 46
Resolving a low battery level when the computer cannot exit
Hibernation ....................................................................................... 46
Calibrating a battery ........................................................................................................... 46
Step 1: Fully charge the battery ........................................................................ 46
Step 2: Disable Hibernation and Sleep ............................................................. 47
Step 3: Discharge the battery ............................................................................ 47
Step 4: Fully recharge the battery ..................................................................... 48
Step 5: Reenable Hibernation and Sleep .......................................................... 48
Conserving battery power .................................................................................................. 48
Storing a battery ................................................................................................................ 49
Disposing of a used battery ............................................................................................... 49
Replacing the battery ......................................................................................................... 49
Shutting down the computer ............................................................................................................... 49
7 Memory modules .......................................................................................................................................... 51
vii
8 Drives and external devices ......................................................................................................................... 54
Drives ................................................................................................................................................. 54
Identifying installed drives .................................................................................................. 54
Handling drives .................................................................................................................. 54
Improving hard drive performance ..................................................................................... 55
Using Disk Defragmenter .................................................................................. 55
Using Disk Cleanup ........................................................................................... 56
Replacing the hard drive in the hard drive bay .................................................................. 56
Using HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection (select models only) ................................. 58
Identifying HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection status ................................ 58
Managing power with a parked hard drive ........................................................ 59
Using HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection software ................................... 59
Using external drives ......................................................................................................... 59
Connecting optional external drives .................................................................. 60
Sharing optical drives ........................................................................................................ 60
External devices ................................................................................................................................. 61
Using a USB device ........................................................................................................... 61
Connecting a USB device ................................................................................. 61
Removing a USB device ................................................................................... 61
Using Digital Media Slot cards ........................................................................................... 62
Inserting a digital card ....................................................................................... 62
Removing a digital card ..................................................................................... 63
9 Security .......................................................................................................................................................... 64
Protecting the computer ..................................................................................................................... 64
Using passwords ................................................................................................................................ 64
Setting passwords in Windows .......................................................................................... 65
Setting passwords in Setup Utility ..................................................................................... 65
Administrator password ..................................................................................... 66
Managing an administrator password ............................................... 66
Entering an administrator password ................................................. 66
Power-on password .......................................................................................... 67
Managing a power-on password ...................................................... 67
Entering a power-on password ......................................................... 67
Using antivirus software ..................................................................................................................... 67
Using firewall software ....................................................................................................................... 68
Installing critical security updates ....................................................................................................... 68
Installing an optional security cable .................................................................................................... 68
10 Changing QuickWeb settings .................................................................................................................... 70
Turning HP QuickWeb on and off ....................................................................................................... 70
viii
Appendix A Setup Utility (BIOS) ..................................................................................................................... 71
Starting Setup Utility ........................................................................................................................... 71
Using Setup Utility .............................................................................................................................. 71
Navigating and selecting in Setup Utility ............................................................................ 71
Changing the language of Setup Utility ............................................................................. 71
Displaying system information ........................................................................................... 72
Restoring default settings in Setup Utility .......................................................................... 72
Exiting Setup Utility ............................................................................................................ 73
Setup Utility menus ............................................................................................................................ 73
Main menu ......................................................................................................................... 73
Security menu .................................................................................................................... 73
System Configuration menu .............................................................................................. 73
Diagnostics menu .............................................................................................................. 74
Updating the BIOS ............................................................................................................................. 74
Determining the BIOS version ........................................................................................... 74
Downloading a BIOS update ............................................................................. 75
Updating programs and drivers .......................................................................................................... 76
Appendix B Backup and recovery .................................................................................................................. 77
Creating recovery discs ...................................................................................................................... 77
Backing up your information ............................................................................................................... 78
Using Windows Backup and Restore ................................................................................ 79
Using system restore points .............................................................................................. 79
When to create restore points ........................................................................... 79
Create a system restore point ........................................................................... 79
Restore to a previous date and time ................................................................. 80
Performing a recovery ........................................................................................................................ 80
Recovering using the recovery discs ................................................................................. 80
Recovering using the dedicated recovery partition ............................................................ 80
Index ................................................................................................................................................................... 81
ix
x
1 Getting started
Your computer's main operating system is Microsoft® Windows®. Your computer may also feature
HP QuickWeb (select models only).
The Microsoft Windows operating system displays the desktop on the display and controls your
●
computer's hardware, peripherals, and software programs.
If your computer includes QuickWeb, it allows you to quickly browse the Internet, view digital
●
photos, listen to music, or keep in touch using e-mail, instant messages, or Skype (select
models only), without having to start your main operating system.
NOTE: To disable or reenable QuickWeb, refer to the "Changing QuickWeb settings" chapter. To
learn more about QuickWeb, refer to the software Help included with QuickWeb, which can be
accessed by clicking the Help icon in the notification area.
Using HP QuickWeb (select models only)
To start QuickWeb:
1. Turn on your computer. The HP QuickWeb Home screen appears.
2. Click an icon on the QuickWeb Home screen to launch an application.
To start QuickWeb from Microsoft Windows:
Select Start, click the arrow next to the Shut down button, and then click Restart. Your
▲
computer restarts and displays the HP QuickWeb Home screen.
– or –
Select Start > All Programs > HP QuickWeb. Click HP QuickWeb Configuration Tool.
▲
Click the Home tab, and then select the Go button located next to Do you want to shut
down Windows and go to QuickWeb?.
NOTE: To learn more about HP QuickWeb, refer to the QuickWeb software Help.
Using HP QuickWeb (select models only) 1
2Features
Identifying hardware
To see a list of hardware installed in the computer, select Start > Control Panel > System and
Security. Then in the System area, click Device Manager.
You can also add hardware or modify device configurations using Device Manager.
NOTE: Windows® includes the User Account Control feature to improve the security of your
computer. You may be prompted for your permission or password for tasks such as installing
software, running utilities, or changing Windows settings. Refer to Help and Support for more
information.
Components
Top components
TouchPad
Component Description
(1) TouchPad light
(2) TouchPad* Moves the pointer and selects or activates items on the
(3) Left TouchPad button* Functions like the left button on an external mouse.
2 Chapter 2 Features
White: TouchPad is enabled.
●
Amber: TouchPad is disabled.
●
screen.
Lights
Component Description
(4) TouchPad on/off button Enables/disables the TouchPad.
(5) TouchPad scroll zone Scrolls up or down.
(6) Right TouchPad button* Functions like the right button on an external mouse.
*This table describes factory settings. To view and change pointing device preferences, select Start > Devices and
Printers. Then, right-click the device representing your computer, and click Mouse settings.
Component Description
(1) Caps lock light On: Caps lock is on.
(2) Mute light On: Computer sound is off.
(3) Num lock light On: The embedded numeric keypad is enabled or num lock is
on for an optional external numeric keypad.
Components 3
Keys
Component Description
(1) esc key Displays system information when pressed in combination
(2) Action keys Execute frequently used system functions.
(3) fn key Executes frequently used system functions when pressed in
(4)
(5)
(6) Embedded numeric keypad keys When the keypad has been enabled, the keys can be used
(7) num lk key Enables/disables the embedded numeric keypad when
Windows logo key Displays the Windows Start menu.
Windows applications key Displays a shortcut menu for items beneath the pointer.
with the fn key.
combination with an arrow key, the num lk key, or the esc
key.
like the keys on an external numeric keypad.
pressed in combination with the fn key.
4 Chapter 2 Features
Front components
Component Description
(1) Speakers (2) Produce sound.
(2) Battery light On: A battery is charging.
(3) Drive light White: The hard drive is being accessed.
Blinking: A battery that is the only available power source has reached a
low battery level. When the battery reaches a critical battery level, the
battery light begins blinking rapidly.
Off: If the computer is plugged into an external power source, the light is
turned off when all batteries in the computer are fully charged. If the
computer is not plugged into an external power source, the light stays off
until the battery reaches a low battery level.
Blinking: The hard drive or an optional external optical drive is being
accessed.
Amber: HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection has temporarily parked
the hard drive.
Right-side components
Component Description
(1) Power light
On: The computer is on.
●
Blinking: The computer is in the Sleep state.
●
Off: The computer is off or in Hibernation.
●
Components 5
Component Description
(2) Power switch
(3) Wireless light
(4) Wireless button Turns the wireless feature on or off but does not create a wireless
(5) USB ports (2) Connect optional USB devices.
When the computer is off, slide the switch to turn on the computer.
●
When the computer is on, slide the switch briefly to initiate Sleep.
●
When the computer is in the Sleep state, slide the switch briefly to
●
exit Sleep.
When the computer is in Hibernation, slide the switch briefly to exit
●
Hibernation.
If the computer has stopped responding and Windows® shutdown
procedures are ineffective, slide and hold the power switch for at least 5
seconds to turn off the computer.
To learn more about your power settings, select Start > Control Panel >
System and Security > Power Options.
Blue: An integrated wireless device, such as a wireless local area
●
network (WLAN) device, a wireless wide area network (WWAN)
device, and/or a Bluetooth® device, is on.
Amber: All wireless devices are off.
●
connection.
NOTE: To establish a wireless connection, a wireless network must
already be set up.
NOTE: Select models include an optional external USB optical disc
drive. For more information, refer to the printed
Quick Setup
poster.
(6) Vent Enables airflow to cool internal components.
(7) Security cable slot Attaches an optional security cable to the computer.
Left-side components
Component Description
(1) Power connector Connects an AC adapter.
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.
NOTE: The security cable is designed to act as a deterrent, but it may
not prevent the computer from being mishandled or stolen.
6 Chapter 2 Features
Component Description
(2) AC adapter light
(3) RJ-45 (network) jack Connects a network cable.
(4) External monitor port Connects an external VGA monitor or projector.
(5) HDMI port Connects an optional video or audio device, such as a high-
(6) USB ports (2) Connect optional USB devices.
(7) Digital Media Slot Supports the following digital card formats:
On: The computer is connected to external power.
●
Off: The computer is not connected to external power.
●
definition television, or any compatible digital or audio
component.
NOTE: Select models can be configured with an optional
external USB optical disc drive. For more information, refer to
the printed
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
Quick Setup
Memory Stick (MS)
Memory Stick Pro (MSP)
MultiMediaCard (MMC)
Secure Digital (SD) Memory Card
Secure Digital High Capacity (SDHC) Memory Card
xD-Picture Card (XD)
xD-Picture Card (XD) Type H
xD-Picture Card (XD) Type M
poster.
(8) Audio-out (headphone) jack Produces sound when connected to optional powered stereo
speakers, headphones, ear buds, a headset, or television
audio.
NOTE: When a device is connected to the headphone jack,
the computer speakers are disabled.
(9) Audio-in (microphone) jack Connects an optional computer headset microphone, stereo
array microphone, or monaural microphone.
Components 7
Bottom components
Component Description
(1) Subscriber identity module (SIM) slot (select
models only)
(2) Battery bay Holds the battery.
(3)
(4) Vents (6) Enable airflow to cool internal components.
Battery release latch Releases the battery from the battery bay.
Located inside the battery bay.
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.
8 Chapter 2 Features
Component Description
(5) Memory module compartment Contains the memory module slot (2 slots on select models)
(6) Hard drive bay Holds the hard drive and, on select models, a wireless wide
Display components
and wireless LAN (WLAN) module.
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
technical support through Help and Support.
area network (WWAN) module.
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
technical support through Help and Support.
Component Description
(1) Internal microphone Records sound.
(2) Webcam light On: The webcam is in use.
(3) Webcam Records video and captures still photographs.
Components 9
Wireless antennas
Component Description
(1) WWAN antennas (2) (select models only)* Send and receive wireless signals to communicate with wireless
(2) WLAN antennas (2)* Send and receive wireless signals to communicate with wireless
*The antennas are not visible from the outside of the device. For optimal transmission, keep the areas immediately around
the antennas free from obstructions.
To see wireless regulatory notices, refer to the section of the
Notices
that applies to your country or region. These notices are located in Help and Support.
wide-area networks (WWANs).
local area networks (WLANs).
Regulatory, Safety and Environmental
10 Chapter 2 Features
Additional hardware components
Component Description
(1) Power cord* Connects the AC adapter.
(2) AC adapter Converts AC power to DC power.
Labels
The labels affixed to the computer provide information you may need when you troubleshoot system
problems or travel internationally with the computer:
●
(3) Battery Powers the computer when the computer is not plugged into
external power.
*Power cords vary in appearance by country or region.
Serial number label—Provides important information, including the following:
Component
(1) Product name
(2) Serial number
(3) Product number
Labels 11
(4) Warranty period
(5) Model description (select models)
Have this information available when you contact technical support. The serial number label is
affixed to the bottom of the computer.
Microsoft® Certificate of Authenticity—Contains the Windows Product Key. You may need the
●
Product Key to update or troubleshoot the operating system. The Microsoft Certificate of
Authenticity is affixed to the bottom of the computer.
Regulatory label—Provides regulatory information about the computer. The regulatory label is
●
affixed inside the battery bay.
Wireless certification label or labels (select models only)—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 affixed to the bottom
of the computer.
SIM (subscriber identity module) label (select models only)—Provides the ICCID (Integrated
●
Circuit Card Identifier) of the SIM. This label is located inside the battery bay.
HP Mobile Broadband Module serial number label (select models only)—Provides the serial
●
number of the HP Mobile Broadband Module. This label is located inside the battery bay.
12 Chapter 2 Features
3 Wireless and local area networks
Using wireless devices
Wireless technology transfers data across radio waves instead of wires. Your computer may be
equipped with one or more of the following wireless devices:
Wireless local area network (WLAN) device—Connects the computer to wireless local area
●
networks (commonly referred to as Wi-Fi networks, wireless LANs, or WLANs) in corporate
offices, your home, and public places such as airports, restaurants, coffee shops, hotels, and
universities. In a WLAN, each mobile wireless device communicates with a wireless router or a
wireless access point.
HP Mobile Broadband Module—A wireless wide area network (WWAN) device that provides
●
access to information wherever mobile network operator service is available. In a WWAN, each
mobile device communicates to a mobile network operator’s base station. Mobile network
operators install networks of base stations (similar to cell phone towers) throughout large
geographic areas, effectively providing coverage across entire states, regions, or even countries.
Bluetooth® device—Creates a personal area network (PAN) to connect to other Bluetooth-
●
enabled devices such as computers, phones, printers, headsets, speakers, and cameras. In a
PAN, each device communicates directly with other devices, and devices must be relatively
close together—typically within 10 meters (approximately 33 feet) of each other.
Computers with WLAN devices support one or more of the following IEEE industry standards:
802.11b, the first popular standard, supports data rates of up to 11 Mbps and operates at a
●
frequency of 2.4 GHz.
802.11g supports data rates of up to 54 Mbps and operates at a frequency of 2.4 GHz. An
●
802.11g WLAN device is backward compatible with 802.11b devices, so they can operate on the
same network.
802.11a supports data rates of up to 54 Mbps and operates at a frequency of 5 GHz.
●
NOTE: 802.11a is not compatible with 802.11b and 802.11g.
802.11n supports data rates of up to 450 Mbps and may operate at 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz, making it
●
backward compatible with 802.11a, b, and g.
For more information on wireless technology, refer to the information and Web site links provided in
Help and Support.
Identifying wireless and network status icons
Icon Name Description
Wireless (connected) Identifies the location of the wireless light and the wireless
button on the computer. Also identifies the Wireless
Assistant software on the computer and indicates that one
or more of the wireless devices are on.
Wireless (disconnected) Identifies the Wireless Assistant software on the computer
and indicates that all of the wireless devices are off.
Using wireless devices 13
HP Connection Manager Opens HP Connection Manager, which enables you to
create a connection with an HP Mobile Broadband device
(select models only).
Wired network (connected) Indicates that one or more of your network drivers are
Wired network (disabled/disconnected) Indicates that the following conditions exist:
Network (connected) Indicates that the following conditions exist:
Network (disabled/disconnected) Indicates that the following conditions exist:
installed and one or more network devices are connected
to the network.
One or more of your network drivers are installed.
●
All network devices or all wireless devices are
●
disabled in Windows® Control Panel.
One or more of your network drivers are installed.
●
One or more network devices are connected to a
●
wireless network.
One or more network devices are connected to a
●
wired network.
One or more of your network drivers are installed.
●
Either no wireless connections are available or all
●
wireless network devices are disabled by the wireless
button or Wireless Assistant.
Wireless connections are available.
●
Using the wireless controls
You can control the wireless devices in your computer using these features:
Wireless button or wireless switch (referred to in this guide as the wireless button)
●
Wireless Assistant software
●
HP Connection Manager software (select models only)
●
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 (blue) 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 blue, 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.
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 through
Wireless Assistant software.
14 Chapter 3 Wireless and local area networks
Using Wireless Assistant software
A wireless device can be turned on or off using the Wireless Assistant software. If a wireless device is
disabled in Setup Utility, it must be reenabled in Setup Utility before it can be turned on or off using
Wireless Assistant.
NOTE: Enabling or turning on a wireless device does not automatically connect the computer to a
network or a Bluetooth-enabled device.
To view the state of the wireless devices, click the Show hidden icons icon, the arrow at the left of
the notification area, and position the mouse pointer over the wireless icon.
If the wireless icon is not displayed in the notification area, complete the following steps to change
Wireless Assistant properties:
1. Select Start > Control Panel > Hardware > Windows Mobility Center.
2. Click the wireless icon in the Wireless Assistant tile, which is located in the bottom row of
Windows® Mobility Center.
3. Click Properties.
4. Select the check box next to HP Wireless Assistant icon in notification area.
5. Click Apply.
6. Click Close.
For more information, refer to the Wireless Assistant software Help:
1. Open Wireless Assistant by clicking the wireless icon in Windows Mobility Center.
2. Click the Help button.
Using HP Connection Manager (select models only)
You can use HP Connection Manager to connect to WWANs using the HP Mobile Broadband device
in your computer (select models only).
To start Connection Manager, click the Connection Manager icon in the notification area, at the far
right of the taskbar.
– or –
Select Start > All Programs > HP Connection Manager > HP Connection Manager.
For more details about using Connection Manager, refer to the Connection Manager software Help.
Using operating system controls
Some operating systems also offer a way to manage integrated wireless devices and the wireless
connection. For example, Windows provides the Network and Sharing Center that allows you to set
up a connection or network, connect to a network, manage wireless networks, and diagnose and
repair network problems.
To access the Network and Sharing Center, select Start > Control Panel > Network and Internet >
Network and Sharing Center.
For more information, select Start > Help and Support.
Using wireless devices 15
Using a WLAN
With a WLAN device, you can access a wireless local area network (WLAN), which is composed of
other computers and accessories that are linked by a wireless router or a wireless access point.
NOTE: The terms
A large-scale WLAN, such as a corporate or public WLAN, typically uses wireless access points
●
that can accommodate a large number of computers and accessories and can separate critical
network functions.
A home or small office WLAN typically uses a wireless router, which allows several wireless and
●
wired computers to share an Internet connection, a printer, and files without requiring additional
pieces of hardware or software.
To use the WLAN device in your computer, you must connect to a WLAN infrastructure (provided
through a service provider or a public or corporate network).
Setting up a WLAN
To set up a WLAN and connect to the Internet, you need the following equipment:
A broadband modem (either DSL or cable) (1) and high-speed Internet service purchased from
●
an Internet service provider (ISP)
A wireless router (purchased separately) (2)
●
The wireless computer (3)
●
The illustration below shows an example of a wireless network installation that is connected to the
Internet.
wireless router
and
wireless access point
are often used interchangeably.
As your network grows, additional wireless and wired computers can be connected to the network to
access the Internet.
For help in setting up your WLAN, refer to the information provided by your router manufacturer or
your ISP.
Protecting your WLAN
Because the WLAN standard was designed with only limited security capabilities—basically to foil
casual eavesdropping rather than more powerful forms of attack—it is essential to understand that
WLANs are vulnerable to well-known and well-documented security weaknesses.
WLANs in public areas, or “hotspots,” like coffee shops and airports may not provide any security.
New technologies are being developed by wireless manufacturers and hotspot service providers that
make the public environment more secure and anonymous. If you are concerned about the security of
your computer in a hotspot, limit your network activities to noncritical e-mail and basic Internet surfing.
When you set up a WLAN or access an existing WLAN, always enable security features to protect
your network from unauthorized access. The common security levels are Wi-Fi Protected Access
(WPA)-Personal and Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP). Because wireless radio signals travel outside
16 Chapter 3 Wireless and local area networks
the network, other WLAN devices can pick up unprotected signals and either connect to your network
(uninvited) or capture information being sent across it. However, you can take precautions to protect
your WLAN:
Use a wireless transmitter with built-in security
●
Many wireless base stations, gateways, or routers provide built-in security features such as
wireless security protocols and firewalls. With the correct wireless transmitter, you can protect
your network from the most common wireless security risks.
Work behind a firewall
●
A firewall is a barrier that checks both data and requests for data that are sent to your network,
and discards any suspicious items. Firewalls are available in many varieties, both software and
hardware. Some networks use a combination of both types.
Use wireless encryption
●
A variety of sophisticated encryption protocols is available for your WLAN. Find the solution that
works best for your network security:
Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) is a wireless security protocol that encodes or encrypts
◦
all network data before it is transmitted using a WEP key. Usually, you can allow the
network to assign the WEP key. Alternatively, you can set up your own key, generate a
different key, or choose other advanced options. Without the correct key, others will not be
able to use the WLAN.
WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access), like WEP, uses security settings to encrypt and decrypt
◦
data that is transmitted over the network. However, instead of using one static security key
for encryptions as WEP does, WPA uses “temporal key integrity protocol” (TKIP) to
dynamically generate a new key for every packet. It also generates different sets of keys for
each computer on the network.
Roaming to another network
When you move your computer within range of another WLAN, Windows attempts to connect to that
network. If the attempt is successful, your computer is automatically connected to the new network. If
Windows does not recognize the new network, follow the same procedure you used initially to
connect to your WLAN.
Using HP Mobile Broadband (select models only)
HP Mobile Broadband enables your computer to use wireless wide area networks (WWANs) to
access the Internet from more places and over larger areas than it can access by using WLANs.
Using HP Mobile Broadband requires a network service provider (called a
which in most cases is a mobile phone network operator. Coverage for HP Mobile Broadband is
similar to mobile phone voice coverage.
When used with mobile network operator service, HP Mobile Broadband gives you the freedom to
stay connected to the Internet, send e-mail, or connect to your corporate network whether you are on
the road or outside the range of Wi-Fi hotspots.
HP Mobile Broadband supports the following technologies:
HSPA (High Speed Packet Access), which provides access to networks based on the Global
●
System for Mobile Communications (GSM) telecommunications standard.
EV-DO (Evolution Data Optimized), which provides access to networks based on the code
●
division multiple access (CDMA) telecommunications standard.
mobile network operator
),
Using HP Mobile Broadband (select models only) 17
You may need the HP Mobile Broadband Module serial number to activate mobile broadband service.
The serial number is printed on a label inside the battery bay of your computer.
Some mobile network operators require the use of a subscriber identity module (SIM). A SIM contains
basic information about you, such as a personal identification number (PIN), as well as network
information. Some computers include a SIM that is preinstalled in the battery bay. If the SIM is not
preinstalled, it may be provided in the HP Mobile Broadband information included with your computer,
or the mobile network operator may provide it separately from the computer.
For information on inserting and removing the SIM, refer to the “Inserting a SIM” and “Removing a
SIM” sections in this chapter.
For information on HP Mobile Broadband and how to activate service with a preferred mobile network
operator, refer to the HP Mobile Broadband information included with your computer. For additional
information, see the HP Web site at
Inserting a SIM
CAUTION: When inserting a SIM, position the card with the slanted corner as shown in the
illustration. If a SIM is inserted backwards or upside down, the battery may not snap into place
properly and could damage the SIM and the SIM connector.
To prevent damage to the connectors, use minimal force when inserting a SIM.
To insert a SIM:
1. Shut down the computer. If you are not sure whether the computer is off or in Hibernation, turn
the computer on by sliding the power switch. Then shut down the computer through the
operating system.
http://www.hp.com/go/mobilebroadband (US only).
2. Close the display.
3. Disconnect all external devices connected to the computer.
4. Unplug the power cord from the AC outlet.
5. Turn the computer upside down on a flat surface, with the battery bay toward you.
6. Remove the battery.
7. Insert the SIM into the SIM slot, and gently push the SIM into the slot until it is firmly seated.
8. Replace the battery.
18 Chapter 3 Wireless and local area networks
NOTE: HP Mobile Broadband is disabled if the battery is not replaced.
9. Turn the computer right-side up, and then reconnect external power and external devices.
10. Turn on the computer.
Removing a SIM
To remove a SIM:
1. Shut down the computer. If you are not sure whether the computer is off or in Hibernation, turn
the computer on by sliding the power switch. Then shut down the computer through the
operating system.
2. Close the display.
3. Disconnect all external devices connected to the computer.
4. Unplug the power cord from the AC outlet.
5. Turn the computer upside down on a flat surface, with the battery bay toward you.
6. Remove the battery.
7. Press in on the SIM (1), and then remove it from the slot (2).
8. Replace the battery.
9. Turn the computer right-side up, and then reconnect external power and external devices.
10. Turn on the computer.
Using Bluetooth wireless devices
A Bluetooth device provides short-range wireless communications that replace the physical cable
connections that traditionally link electronic devices such as the following:
Computers (desktop, notebook, PDA)
●
Phones (cellular, cordless, smart phone)
●
Imaging devices (printer, camera)
●
Audio devices (headset, speakers)
●
Using Bluetooth wireless devices 19
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