HP ProBook 455 User Manual
User Guide
© Copyright 2013 Hewlett-Packard
Development Company, L.P.
Bluetooth is a trademark owned by its
proprietor and used by Hewlett-Packard
Company under license. AMD is a
registered trademark of Advanced Micro
Devices, Inc. in the U.S. and other
countries. SD Logo is a trademark of its
proprietor. Java is a U.S. trademark of Sun
Microsystems, Inc. Microsoft and Windows
are U.S. registered trademarks of Microsoft
Corporation.
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: July 2013
First Edition: May 2013
Document Part Number: 720722-002
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 information in this
guide, contact support. For U.S. support, go
http://www.hp.com/go/contactHP. For
to
worldwide support, go to
http://welcome.hp.com/country/us/en/
wwcontact_us.html.
Software terms
By installing, copying, downloading, or
otherwise using any software product
preinstalled on this computer, you agree to
be bound by the terms of the HP End User
License Agreement (EULA). If you do not
accept these license terms, your sole
remedy is to return the entire unused
product (hardware and software) within 14
days for a refund subject to the refund
policy of your place of purchase.
For any further information or to request a
full refund of the computer, please contact
your local point of sale (the seller).
Safety warning notice
WARNING! To reduce the possibility of heat-related injuries or of overheating the computer, do not
place the computer directly on your lap or obstruct the computer air vents. Use the computer only on
a hard, flat surface. Do not allow another hard surface, such as an adjoining optional printer, or a soft
surface, such as pillows or rugs or clothing, to block airflow. Also, do not allow the AC adapter to
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 Welcome ........................................................................................................................................................... 1
Finding information ............................................................................................................................... 2
2 Getting to know your computer ......................................................................................................................... 4
Top ....................................................................................................................................................... 4
TouchPad ............................................................................................................................ 4
Lights ................................................................................................................................... 5
Buttons and fingerprint reader (select models only) ............................................................ 6
Keys ..................................................................................................................................... 8
Front ................................................................................................................................................... 10
Right ................................................................................................................................................... 11
Left ..................................................................................................................................................... 12
Display ................................................................................................................................................ 13
Bottom ................................................................................................................................................ 14
3 Connecting to a network ................................................................................................................................. 16
Connecting to a wireless network ....................................................................................................... 16
Using the wireless controls ................................................................................................ 16
Using the wireless button .................................................................................. 16
Using operating system controls ....................................................................... 17
Using a WLAN ................................................................................................................... 17
Using an Internet service provider .................................................................... 17
Setting up a WLAN ............................................................................................ 18
Configuring a wireless router ............................................................................ 18
Protecting your WLAN ....................................................................................... 18
Connecting to a WLAN ...................................................................................... 19
Using Bluetooth wireless devices (select models only) ..................................................... 19
Connecting to a wired network ........................................................................................................... 19
Connecting to a local area network (LAN) ......................................................................... 20
4 Navigating using the keyboard, touch gestures and pointing devices ............................................................ 21
Using pointing devices ....................................................................................................................... 21
Setting pointing device preferences ................................................................................... 21
Using the TouchPad .......................................................................................................... 21
Turning the TouchPad off and on ...................................................................... 22
Using TouchPad Gestures ................................................................................ 22
v
One-finger slide ................................................................................ 22
Tapping ............................................................................................. 23
Scrolling ............................................................................................ 23
Pinching/zooming ............................................................................. 24
Rotating (select models only) ........................................................... 24
2-Finger click (select models only) ................................................... 25
Flicking (select models only) ............................................................ 25
Using the keyboard ............................................................................................................................ 26
Using Microsoft Windows 8 shortcut keys ......................................................................... 26
Identifying the hot keys ...................................................................................................... 27
Using keypads ................................................................................................................... 28
Using the embedded numeric keypad (select models only) .............................. 28
Turning the embedded numeric keypad on and off .......................... 29
Switching key functions on the embedded numeric keypad ............. 29
Using the integrated numeric keypad (select models only) ............................... 29
Using an optional external numeric keypad ...................................................... 29
5 Multimedia ....................................................................................................................................................... 31
Using the media activity controls ........................................................................................................ 31
Audio .................................................................................................................................................. 31
Connecting speakers ......................................................................................................... 31
Adjusting the volume ......................................................................................................... 31
Connecting headphones .................................................................................................... 32
Connecting a microphone .................................................................................................. 32
Checking audio functions on the computer ........................................................................ 32
Webcam (select models only) ............................................................................................................ 32
Video .................................................................................................................................................. 33
VGA ................................................................................................................................... 33
HDMI (select models only) ................................................................................................. 34
Configuring audio for HDMI ............................................................................................... 34
6 Power management ........................................................................................................................................ 36
Shutting down the computer ............................................................................................................... 36
Setting power options ......................................................................................................................... 36
Using power-saving states ................................................................................................. 36
Initiating and exiting Sleep ................................................................................ 37
Enabling and exiting user-initiated Hibernation ................................................. 37
Using the power meter and power settings ....................................................... 37
Setting password protection on wakeup ........................................................... 37
Using battery power ........................................................................................................... 38
Finding additional battery information ............................................................... 38
vi
Using Battery Check ......................................................................................... 39
Displaying the remaining battery charge ........................................................... 39
Maximizing battery discharge time .................................................................... 39
Managing low battery levels .............................................................................. 39
Identifying low battery levels ............................................................. 39
Resolving a low battery level ............................................................ 40
Inserting or removing the battery ...................................................................... 40
Inserting a battery ............................................................................. 40
Removing a battery .......................................................................... 40
Conserving battery power ................................................................................. 41
Storing a user-replaceable battery (select models only) ................................... 41
Disposing of a user-replaceable battery (select models only) ........................... 41
Replacing a user-replaceable battery (select models only) .............................. 42
Using external AC power ................................................................................................... 42
Testing an AC adapter ...................................................................................... 42
7 External cards and devices ............................................................................................................................. 44
Using Media Card Reader cards (select models only) ....................................................................... 44
Inserting a digital card ........................................................................................................ 44
Removing a digital card ..................................................................................................... 44
Using a USB device ........................................................................................................................... 45
Connecting a USB device .................................................................................................. 45
Removing a USB device .................................................................................................... 46
Using optional external devices .......................................................................................................... 46
Using optional external drives ............................................................................................ 46
8 Drives .............................................................................................................................................................. 47
Handling drives ................................................................................................................................... 47
Using hard drives ............................................................................................................................... 47
Using the optional security screw ...................................................................................... 48
Removing or replacing the service door ............................................................................ 49
Removing the service door ............................................................................... 49
Replacing the service door ................................................................................ 49
Replacing or upgrading the hard drive ............................................................................... 50
Removing the hard drive ................................................................................... 50
Installing a hard drive ........................................................................................ 52
Improving hard drive performance ..................................................................................... 53
Using Disk Defragmenter .................................................................................. 53
Using Disk Cleanup ........................................................................................... 54
Using HP 3D DriveGuard (select models only) .................................................................. 54
Identifying HP 3D DriveGuard status ................................................................ 54
vii
Managing power with a parked hard drive ........................................................ 55
Using HP 3D DriveGuard software ................................................................... 55
Using optical drives (select models only) ........................................................................................... 55
Identifying the installed optical drive .................................................................................. 55
Inserting an optical disc ..................................................................................................... 56
Tray-load ........................................................................................................... 56
Removing an optical disc ................................................................................................... 56
Tray-load ........................................................................................................... 56
When the disc tray opens normally .................................................. 56
When the disc tray fails to open normally ......................................... 57
Sharing optical drives ........................................................................................................ 59
Using RAID (select models only) ........................................................................................................ 59
9 Security ........................................................................................................................................................... 60
Protecting the computer ..................................................................................................................... 60
Using passwords ................................................................................................................................ 61
Setting passwords in Windows .......................................................................................... 61
Setting passwords in Computer Setup .............................................................................. 62
Managing a BIOS administrator password ........................................................................ 62
Entering a BIOS administrator password .......................................................... 63
Managing a Computer Setup DriveLock password ........................................................... 63
Setting a DriveLock password ........................................................................... 64
Entering a DriveLock password ........................................................................ 65
Changing a DriveLock password ...................................................................... 65
Removing DriveLock protection ........................................................................ 65
Using Computer Setup Automatic DriveLock .................................................................... 66
Entering an Automatic DriveLock password ..................................................... 66
Removing Automatic DriveLock protection ....................................................... 66
Using antivirus software ..................................................................................................................... 67
Using firewall software ....................................................................................................................... 67
Installing critical security updates ....................................................................................................... 67
Using HP Client Security Manager ..................................................................................................... 68
Installing an optional security cable .................................................................................................... 68
Using the fingerprint reader (select models only) ............................................................................... 68
Locating the fingerprint reader ........................................................................................... 68
10 Maintenance ................................................................................................................................................. 70
Adding or replacing memory modules ................................................................................................ 70
Cleaning your computer ..................................................................................................................... 72
Cleaning products .............................................................................................................. 72
Cleaning procedures .......................................................................................................... 73
viii
Cleaning the display .......................................................................................... 73
Cleaning the sides and cover ............................................................................ 73
Cleaning the TouchPad and keyboard .............................................................. 73
Updating programs and drivers .......................................................................................................... 73
Using SoftPaq Download Manager .................................................................................................... 74
11 Backup and recovery .................................................................................................................................... 75
Backing up your information ............................................................................................................... 75
Performing a system recovery ............................................................................................................ 76
Using the Windows recovery tools ..................................................................................... 76
Using f11 recovery tools .................................................................................................... 77
Using Windows 8 operating system media (purchased separately) .................................. 77
Using Windows Refresh for quick and easy recovery ....................................................... 78
Remove everything and reinstall Windows ........................................................................ 78
Using HP Software Setup .................................................................................................. 79
12 Computer Setup (BIOS), MultiBoot, and System Diagnostics ...................................................................... 80
Using Computer Setup ....................................................................................................................... 80
Starting Computer Setup ................................................................................................... 80
Navigating and selecting in Computer Setup ..................................................................... 80
Restoring factory settings in Computer Setup ................................................................... 81
Updating the BIOS ............................................................................................................. 82
Determining the BIOS version ........................................................................... 82
Downloading a BIOS update ............................................................................. 82
Using MultiBoot .................................................................................................................................. 83
About the boot device order ............................................................................................... 83
Choosing Multi Boot preferences ....................................................................................... 83
Setting a new boot order in Computer Setup .................................................... 83
Dynamically choosing a boot device using the f9 prompt ................................. 84
Setting a MultiBoot Express prompt .................................................................. 84
Entering MultiBoot Express preferences ........................................................... 85
Using System Diagnostics .................................................................................................................. 85
13 Support ......................................................................................................................................................... 86
Contacting support ............................................................................................................................. 86
Labels ................................................................................................................................................. 87
14 Specifications ................................................................................................................................................ 88
Input power ......................................................................................................................................... 88
Operating environment ....................................................................................................................... 88
ix
Appendix A Traveling with the computer ........................................................................................................... 89
Appendix B Troubleshooting .............................................................................................................................. 90
Troubleshooting resources ................................................................................................................. 90
Resolving issues ................................................................................................................................ 90
The computer is unable to start up .................................................................................... 90
The computer screen is blank ............................................................................................ 90
Software is functioning abnormally .................................................................................... 91
The computer is on but not responding ............................................................................. 91
The computer is unusually warm ....................................................................................... 91
An external device is not working ...................................................................................... 91
The wireless network connection is not working ................................................................ 92
The optical disc tray does not open for removal of a CD or DVD ...................................... 92
The computer does not detect the optical drive ................................................................. 93
A disc does not play ........................................................................................................... 93
A movie is not visible on an external display ..................................................................... 93
The process of burning a disc does not begin, or it stops before completion .................... 94
Appendix C Electrostatic discharge ................................................................................................................... 95
Index ................................................................................................................................................................... 96
x
1Welcome
After you set up and register the computer, it is important to take the following steps:
Take a minute to browse the printed
●
features.
TIP: To quickly return to the computer Start screen from an open app or the Windows desktop,
press the Windows button
return you to the previous screen.
Connect to the Internet—Set up your wired or wireless network so that you can connect to the
●
Internet. For more information, see
Update your antivirus software—Protect your computer from damage caused by viruses. The
●
software is preinstalled on the computer. For more information, see
on page 67.
Get to know your computer—Learn about your computer features. Refer to
●
computer on page 4 and Navigating using the keyboard, touch gestures and pointing devices
on page 21 for additional information.
Find installed software—Access a list of the software preinstalled on the computer:
●
From the Start screen, type a, click Apps, and then select from the displayed options. For details
about using the software included with the computer, see the software manufacturer's
instructions, which may be provided with the software or on the manufacturer's website.
Back up your hard drive by creating recovery discs or a recovery flash drive. See
●
recovery on page 75.
Windows 8 Basics
on your keyboard. Pressing the Windows button again will
Connecting to a network on page 16.
guide to explore the new Windows®
Using antivirus software
Getting to know your
Backup and
1
Finding information
The computer comes with several resources to help you perform various tasks.
Resources For information about
Setup Instructions
Windows 8 Basics
HP Support Assistant
To access HP Support Assistant on the Start screen,
select the HP Support Assistant app.
To obtain the latest information in this guide, contact
support. For U.S. support, go to
contactHP. For worldwide support, go to
http://welcome.hp.com/country/us/en/
wwcontact_us.html.
poster
guide Overview of using and navigating with Windows® 8.
http://www.hp.com/go/
Regulatory, Safety, and Environmental Notices
To access the user guides, select the HP Support
Assistant app on the Start screen, select My computer,
and then select User guides.
Safety & Comfort Guide
To access the user guides, select the HP Support
Assistant app on the Start screen, select My computer,
and then select User guides.
– or –
Go to
http://www.hp.com/ergo.
How to set up the computer
●
Help to identify computer components
●
Operating system information
●
Software, driver, and BIOS updates
●
Troubleshooting tools
●
How to access support
●
Regulatory and safety information
●
Battery disposal information
●
Proper workstation setup, posture, health, and work habits
●
Electrical and mechanical safety information
●
Worldwide Telephone Numbers
This booklet is provided with your computer.
HP website
To obtain the latest information in this guide, contact
support. For U.S. support, go to
contactHP. For worldwide support, go to
http://welcome.hp.com/country/us/en/
wwcontact_us.html.
Limited Warranty
To access this guide, from the Start screen, select the
HP Support Assistant app, select My computer, and
then select Warranty and services.
– or –
Go to
http://www.hp.com/go/orderdocuments.
*You can find the expressly provided HP Limited Warranty applicable to your product located with the user guides on your
computer and/or on the CD/DVD provided in the box. In some countries/regions, HP may provide a printed HP Limited
Warranty in the box. For some countries/regions where the warranty is not provided in printed format, you may request a
printed copy from
North America: Hewlett-Packard, MS POD, 11311 Chinden Blvd., Boise, ID 83714, USA
●
Europe, Middle East, Africa: Hewlett-Packard, POD, Via G. Di Vittorio, 9, 20063, Cernusco s/Naviglio (MI), Italy
●
*
http://www.hp.com/go/orderdocuments or write to:
booklet
http://www.hp.com/go/
HP support telephone numbers
Support information
●
Ordering parts and finding additional help
●
Accessories available for the device
●
Warranty information
2 Chapter 1 Welcome
Resources For information about
Asia Pacific: Hewlett-Packard, POD, P.O. Box 200, Alexandra Post Office, Singapore 911507
●
When you request a printed copy of your warranty, please include your product number, warranty period (found on your
service label), name, and postal address.
IMPORTANT: Do NOT return your HP product to the addresses above. For U.S. support, go to
contactHP. For worldwide support, go to http://welcome.hp.com/country/us/en/wwcontact_us.html.
http://www.hp.com/go/
Finding information 3
2 Getting to know your computer
Top
TouchPad
Component Description
(1) TouchPad on/off button Turns the TouchPad on and off.
(2) TouchPad zone Moves the pointer and selects or activates items on the
screen.
(3) Left TouchPad button Functions like the left button on an external mouse.
(4) Right TouchPad button Functions like the right button on an external mouse.
4 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer
Lights
NOTE: Your computer may look slightly different from the illustration in this section.
Component Description
(1)
(2)
(3) Num lock light On: Num lock is on.
(4)
(5)
(6) Caps lock light On: Caps lock is on.
Power light
Microphone mute lightl Amber: The microphone is off.
Wireless light
Mute light
On: The computer is on.
●
Blinking: The computer is in the Sleep
●
state.
Off: The computer is off.
●
White: An integrated wireless device,
●
such as a wireless local area network
(WLAN) device and/or a Bluetooth®
device, is on.
Amber: All wireless devices are off.
●
Off: Computer sound is on.
●
Amber: Computer sound is off.
●
Top 5
Buttons and fingerprint reader (select models only)
NOTE: Your computer may look slightly different from the illustration in this section.
Component Description
(1)
(2) Speakers (2) Produce DTS Sound+.
(3)
Power button
Wireless button Turns the wireless feature on or off but does not establish a
When the computer is off, press the button to turn on
●
the computer.
When the computer is on, press the button briefly to
●
initiate Sleep.
When the computer is in the Sleep state, press the
●
button briefly to exit Sleep.
When the computer is in Hibernation, press the button
●
briefly to exit Hibernation.
CAUTION: Pressing and holding down the power button
will result in the loss of unsaved information.
If the computer has stopped responding and Windows®
shutdown procedures are ineffective, press and hold the
power button for at least 5 seconds to turn off the computer.
To learn more about your power settings, see your power
options. From the Start screen, type power, select Settings,
and then select Power Options.
NOTE: To use the DTS Sound+ software, from the Start
screen, type DTS, and then select DTS Sound+.
wireless connection.
6 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer
Component Description
(4)
(5) Fingerprint reader (select models only) Allows a fingerprint logon to Windows, instead of a password
Volume mute button Mutes and restores speaker sound.
logon.
Top 7
Keys
NOTE: Refer to the illustration that most clearly matches your computer.
Component Description
(1) esc key Displays system information when pressed in combination
with the fn key.
(2) fn key Executes frequently used system functions when pressed
in combination with a function key, the num lk key, or the
esc key.
(3)
(4) Function keys Execute frequently used system functions when pressed in
(5) Embedded numeric keypad When the keypad is turned on, it can be used like an
(6)
(7) num lk key Turns the embedded numeric keypad on and off when
Windows button Returns you to the Start screen from an open app or the
Windows desktop.
NOTE: Pressing the Windows button again will return you
to the previous screen.
combination with the fn key.
external numeric keypad.
Each key on the keypad performs the function indicated by
the icon in the upper-right corner of the key.
Windows applications key Displays options for a selected object.
pressed in combination with the fn key.
Alternates between the navigational and numeric functions
on the integrated numeric keypad.
8 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer
Component Description
(1) esc key Displays system information when pressed in combination
with the fn key.
(2) fn key Executes frequently used system functions when pressed
in combination with a function key, the num lk key, or the
esc key.
(3)
(4) Function keys Execute frequently used system functions when pressed in
(5) num lk key Turns the embedded numeric keypad on and off when
(6) Integrated numeric keypad When num lk has been enabled, it can be used like an
Windows button Returns you to the Start screen from an open app or the
Windows desktop.
NOTE: Pressing the Windows button again will return you
to the previous screen.
combination with the fn key.
pressed in combination with the fn key.
Alternates between the navigational and numeric functions
on the integrated numeric keypad.
external numeric keypad.
Top 9
Front
Component Description
(1)
(2) Media Card Reader Reads data from and writes data to digital memory
Hard drive light
Blinking white: The hard drive is being accessed.
●
Amber: HP 3D DriveGuard has temporarily
●
parked the hard drive.
cards such as Secure Digital (SD).
10 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer
Right
Component Description
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4) Optical drive (select models only) Reads and writes (select models only) to an optical disc.
(5) Optical drive eject button (select models
(6)
Audio-out (headphone) jack Produces sound when connected to optional powered
stereo speakers, headphones, earbuds, a headset, or
television audio.
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
the user guides, select the HP Support Assistant app on
the Start screen, select My computer, and then select User
guides.
NOTE: When a device is connected to the jack, the
computer speakers are disabled.
Audio-in (microphone) jack Connects an optional computer headset microphone,
stereo array microphone, or monaural microphone.
USB 2.0 port Connects an optional USB device.
Releases the optical drive disc tray.
only)
Security cable slot Attaches an optional security cable to the computer.
NOTE: The security cable is designed to act as a
deterrent, but it may not prevent the computer from being
mishandled or stolen.
. To access
Right 11
Left
Component Description
(1)
(2)
(3) Vent Enables airflow to cool internal components.
(4)
(5)
Power connector Connects an AC adapter.
AC adapter/Battery light
External monitor port Connects an external VGA monitor or projector.
RJ-45 (network) jack
White: The computer is connected to external
●
power and the battery is charged from 90 to 99
percent.
Amber: The computer is connected to external
●
power and the battery is charged from 0 to 89
percent.
Blinking amber: 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: The battery is fully charged.
●
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.
Connects a network cable.
RJ-45 (network) lights (2)
(6)
(7)
HDMI port Connects an optional video or audio device, such as a
USB 3.0 ports (2) Connect optional USB 3.0 devices and provide
12 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer
Green (left): The network is connected.
●
Amber (right): The network is showing activity.
●
high-definition television, or any compatible digital or
audio component.
enhanced USB power performance.
NOTE: For details about different types of USB ports,
see
Using a USB device on page 45.
Display
NOTE: Your computer may look slightly different from the illustration in this section.
Component Description
(1) WLAN antennas (2)* Send and receive wireless signals to communicate with wireless
local area networks (WLAN).
(2) Internal microphones (1 or 2 depending on
model)
(3) Webcam light (select models only)t On: The webcam is in use.
(4) Webcam (select models only) Records video and captures still photographs.
(5) Internal display switch Turns off the display or initiates Sleep if the display is closed
*The antennas are not visible on the outside of the computer. For optimal transmission, keep the areas immediately around
the antennas free from obstructions. To see wireless regulatory notices, see the section of the
Environmental Notices
app on the Start screen, select My computer, and then select User guides.
that applies to your country or region. To access the user guides, select the HP Support Assistant
Record sound.
To use the webcam, from the Start screen, type c, and then
select CyberLink YouCam from the list of applications.
while the power is on.
NOTE: The display switch is not visible on the outside of the
computer.
Regulatory, Safety, and
Display 13
Bottom
Component Description
(1)
(2) Battery bay Holds the battery.
(3) Service door Provides access to the hard drive bay, the wireless
(4) Vent Enables airflow to cool internal components.
Battery and service door release latches
Releases the battery from the battery bay by
●
sliding the release latches one time.
When the battery has been removed from the
●
battery bay, releases the service door from the
computer by sliding the release latches a second
time.
LAN (WLAN) module slot, and the memory module
slots.
CAUTION: To prevent an unresponsive system,
replace the wireless module only with a wireless
module authorized for use in the computer by the
governmental agency that regulates wireless devices
in your country or region. If you replace the module
and then receive a warning message, remove the
module to restore computer functionality, and then
contact support through HP Support Assistant. To
access HP Support Assistant on the Start screen,
select the HP Support Assistant app.
14 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer
Component Description
NOTE: The computer fan starts up automatically to
cool internal components and prevent overheating. It
is normal for the internal fan to cycle on and off during
routine operation.
Bottom 15
3 Connecting to a network
Your computer can travel with you wherever you go. But even at home, you can explore the globe
and access information from millions of websites using your computer and a wired or wireless
network connection. This chapter will help you get connected to that world.
Connecting to a wireless network
Wireless technology transfers data across radio waves instead of wires. Your computer may be
equipped with one or more of the following wireless devices:
Wireless local area network (WLAN) device—Connects the computer to wireless local area
●
networks (commonly referred to as Wi-Fi networks, wireless LANs, or WLANs) in corporate
offices, your home, and public places such as airports, restaurants, coffee shops, hotels, and
universities. In a WLAN, the mobile wireless device in your computer communicates with a
wireless router or a wireless access point.
Bluetooth device (select models only)—Creates a personal area network (PAN) to connect to
●
other Bluetooth-enabled devices such as computers, phones, printers, headsets, speakers, and
cameras. In a PAN, each device communicates directly with other devices, and devices must be
relatively close together—typically within 10 meters (approximately 33 feet) of each other.
For more information about wireless technology, see the information and website links provided in HP
Support Assistant. To access HP Support Assistant on the Start screen, select the HP Support
Assistant app.
Using the wireless controls
You can control the wireless devices in your computer using these features:
Wireless button, wireless switch, or wireless key (referred to in this chapter as the wireless
●
button)
Operating system controls
●
Using the wireless button
The computer has a wireless button, one or more wireless devices, and one or two wireless lights,
depending on the model. All of the wireless devices on your computer are enabled at the factory, so
the wireless light is on (white) when you turn on the computer.
The wireless light indicates the overall power state of your wireless devices, not the status of
individual devices. If the wireless light is white, at least one wireless device is on. If the wireless light
is off, all wireless devices are off.
NOTE: On some models, the wireless light is amber when all wireless devices are off.
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.
16 Chapter 3 Connecting to a network
Using operating system controls
The Network and Sharing Center allows you to set up a connection or network, connect to a network,
manage wireless networks, and diagnose and repair network problems.
To use operating system controls:
1. From the Start screen, type n, and then select Settings..
2. Type network and sharing in the search box, and then select Network and Sharing Center.
For more information, access HP Support Assistant. To access HP Support Assistant on the Start
screen, select the HP Support Assistant app.
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).
wireless router
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.
and
wireless access point
are often used interchangeably.
Connecting to a wireless network 17
Setting up a WLAN
To set up a WLAN and connect to the Internet, you need the following equipment:
A broadband modem (either DSL or cable) (1) and high-speed Internet service purchased from
●
an Internet service provider
A wireless router (2) (purchased separately)
●
A wireless computer (3)
●
NOTE: Some modems have a built-in wireless router. Check with your ISP to determine what type
of modem you have.
The illustration below shows an example of a wireless network installation that is connected to the
Internet.
As your network grows, additional wireless and wired computers can be connected to the network to
access the Internet.
For help in setting up your WLAN, see the information provided by your router manufacturer or your
ISP.
Configuring a wireless router
For help in setting up a WLAN, see the information provided by your router manufacturer or your ISP.
NOTE: It is recommended that you initially connect your new wireless computer to the router by
using the network cable provided with the router. When the computer successfully connects to the
Internet, disconnect the cable, and access the Internet through your wireless network.
Protecting your WLAN
When you set up a WLAN or access an existing WLAN, always enable security features to protect
your network from unauthorized access. WLANs in public areas (hotspots) like coffee shops and
airports may not provide any security. If you are concerned about the security of your computer in a
hotspot, limit your network activities to email that is not confidential and basic Internet surfing.
Wireless radio signals travel outside the network, so other WLAN devices can pick up unprotected
signals. Take the following precautions to protect your WLAN:
Use a firewall.
●
A firewall checks both data and requests for data that are sent to your network, and discards any
suspicious items. Firewalls are available in both software and hardware. Some networks use a
combination of both types.
Use wireless encryption.
●
Wireless encryption uses security settings to encrypt and decrypt data that is transmitted over
the network. For more information, access HP Support Assistant. To access HP Support
Assistant on the Start screen, select the HP Support Assistant app.
18 Chapter 3 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 on. If the wireless
light is off, press the wireless button.
NOTE: On some models, the wireless light is amber when all wireless devices are off.
2. From the Windows desktop, tap and hold, or click the network status icon in the notification area,
at the far right of the taskbar.
3. Select your WLAN from the list.
4. Click Connect.
If the WLAN is a security-enabled WLAN, you are prompted to enter a security code. Type the
code, and then click Next.
NOTE: If no WLANs are listed, you may be out of range of a wireless router or access point.
NOTE: If you do not see the WLAN you want to connect to, from the Windows desktop, right-
click the network status icon, and then select Open Network and Sharing Center. Click Set up a
new connection or network. A list of options is displayed, allowing you to manually search for
and connect to a network or to create a new network connection.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the connection.
After the connection is made, place the mouse pointer over the network status icon in the notification
area, at the far right of the taskbar, to verify the name and status of the connection.
NOTE: The functional range (how far your wireless signals travel) depends on WLAN
implementation, router manufacturer, and interference from other electronic devices or structural
barriers such as walls and floors.
Using Bluetooth wireless devices (select models only)
A Bluetooth device provides short-range wireless communications that replace the physical cable
connections that traditionally link electronic devices such as the following:
Computers (desktop, notebook, PDA)
●
Phones (cellular, cordless, smart phone)
●
Imaging devices (printer, camera)
●
Audio devices (headset, speakers)
●
Mouse
●
Bluetooth devices provide peer-to-peer capability that allows you to set up a 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
There are 2 kinds of wired connections: local area network (LAN) and modem connection. A LAN
connection uses a network cable and is much faster than a modem, which uses a telephone cable.
Both cables are sold separately.
Connecting to a wired network 19
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 network at your office.
Connecting to a LAN requires an 8-pin, RJ-45 network cable.
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.
20 Chapter 3 Connecting to a network
Loading...