HP ProBook 5320m User Manual
HP ProBook Notebook 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,
Windows, and Windows Vista are U.S.
registered trademarks of Microsoft
Corporation. SD Logo is a trademark of its
proprietor. Intel is a trademark of Intel
Corporation in the U.S. and other countries
and is used under license.
The information contained herein is subject
to change without notice. The only
warranties for HP products and services are
set forth in the express warranty statements
accompanying such products and services.
Nothing herein should be construed as
constituting an additional warranty. HP shall
not be liable for technical or editorial errors
or omissions contained herein.
First Edition: June 2010
Document Part Number: 608784-001
Product notice
This user guide describes features that are
common to most models. Some features
may not be available on your computer.
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 Features
Identifying hardware ............................................................................................................................. 1
Top components .................................................................................................................. 1
TouchPad ............................................................................................................ 1
Lights ................................................................................................................... 3
Buttons and fingerprint reader (select models only) ............................................ 3
Keys .................................................................................................................... 5
Front components ................................................................................................................ 6
Right-side components ........................................................................................................ 6
Left-side components .......................................................................................................... 7
Bottom components ............................................................................................................. 8
Display components ........................................................................................................... 9
Wireless antennas (select models only) ............................................................................ 10
Additional hardware components ...................................................................................... 11
Identifying the labels ........................................................................................................................... 11
2 Wireless and local area network
Using wireless devices ....................................................................................................................... 13
Identifying wireless and network icons .............................................................................. 14
Using the wireless controls ................................................................................................ 14
Using the wireless button ................................................................................................... 14
Using Wireless Assistant software (select models only) .................................................... 15
Using HP Connection Manager (select models only) ........................................................ 15
Using operating system controls ........................................................................................ 15
Using a WLAN (select models only) ................................................................................................... 16
Setting up a WLAN ............................................................................................................ 16
Protecting your WLAN ....................................................................................................... 16
Connecting to a WLAN ...................................................................................................... 18
Roaming to another network .............................................................................................. 18
Using HP Mobile Broadband (select models only) ............................................................................. 19
Inserting a SIM ................................................................................................................... 19
Removing a SIM ................................................................................................................ 20
Using a Bluetooth wireless device ...................................................................................................... 22
Bluetooth and Internet Connection Sharing (ICS) ............................................................. 22
Troubleshooting wireless connection problems ................................................................................. 23
Cannot create a WLAN connection ................................................................................... 23
Cannot connect to a preferred network ............................................................................. 24
Network status icon is not displayed .................................................................................. 24
Current network security codes are unavailable ................................................................ 24
v
WLAN connection is very weak ......................................................................................... 25
Cannot connect to the wireless router ............................................................................... 25
Connecting to a local area network (LAN) .......................................................................................... 26
3 Pointing devices and keyboard
Using pointing devices ....................................................................................................................... 27
Setting pointing device preferences ................................................................................... 27
Using the TouchPad .......................................................................................................... 27
Connecting an external mouse .......................................................................................... 27
Using the keyboard ............................................................................................................................ 27
Using the hotkeys .............................................................................................................. 27
Displaying system information .......................................................................... 28
Opening Help and Support ................................................................................ 29
Opening the Print Options window .................................................................... 30
Switching the screen image .............................................................................. 31
Initiating Sleep ................................................................................................... 32
Initiating QuickLock .......................................................................................... 33
Decreasing screen brightness ........................................................................... 33
Increasing screen brightness ............................................................................ 33
Muting speaker sound ....................................................................................... 33
Decreasing speaker sound ............................................................................... 33
Increasing speaker sound ................................................................................. 33
Using HP QuickLook 3 ....................................................................................................................... 34
Using keypads .................................................................................................................................... 34
Using the embedded numeric keypad ............................................................................... 34
Enabling and disabling the embedded numeric keypad .................................... 35
Switching key functions on the embedded numeric keypad ............................. 35
Using an optional external numeric keypad ....................................................................... 35
4 Multimedia
Multimedia features ............................................................................................................................ 36
Multimedia software ........................................................................................................................... 39
Audio .................................................................................................................................................. 40
Video .................................................................................................................................................. 42
External optical drives ........................................................................................................................ 44
Identifying your multimedia components ........................................................................... 36
Adjusting the volume ......................................................................................................... 38
Accessing your preinstalled multimedia software .............................................................. 39
Installing multimedia software from a disc ......................................................................... 39
Connecting external audio devices .................................................................................... 40
Checking your audio functions ........................................................................................... 40
Connecting an external monitor or projector ...................................................................... 42
Using the external monitor port ......................................................................... 42
Using the DisplayPort ........................................................................................ 42
Identifying an external optical drive ................................................................................... 44
Playing music ..................................................................................................................... 44
Watching a movie .............................................................................................................. 45
Changing DVD region settings .......................................................................................... 45
Creating (burning) a CD or DVD ........................................................................................ 46
Removing an optical disc (CD or DVD) ............................................................................. 47
vi
Webcam ............................................................................................................................................. 48
Adjusting webcam properties ............................................................................................. 48
5 Power management
Setting power options ......................................................................................................................... 49
Using power-saving states ................................................................................................. 49
Using the battery meter ..................................................................................................... 50
Using power plans ............................................................................................................. 50
Setting password protection on wakeup ............................................................................ 51
Using external AC power .................................................................................................................... 51
Connecting the AC adapter ............................................................................................... 52
Using battery power ........................................................................................................................... 53
Finding battery information in Help and Support ............................................................... 53
Using Battery Check .......................................................................................................... 53
Displaying the remaining battery charge ........................................................................... 54
Inserting or removing the battery ....................................................................................... 54
Charging a battery ............................................................................................................. 55
Maximizing battery discharge time .................................................................................... 56
Managing low battery levels .............................................................................................. 56
Calibrating a battery ........................................................................................................... 57
Conserving battery power .................................................................................................. 60
Storing a battery ................................................................................................................ 60
Disposing of a used battery ............................................................................................... 61
Replacing the battery ........................................................................................................ 61
Testing an AC adapter ....................................................................................................................... 62
Shutting down the computer ............................................................................................................... 62
Initiating and exiting Sleep ................................................................................ 49
Initiating and exiting Hibernation ....................................................................... 50
Viewing the current power plan ......................................................................... 51
Selecting a different power plan ........................................................................ 51
Customizing power plans .................................................................................. 51
Identifying low battery levels ............................................................................. 56
Resolving a low battery level ............................................................................. 57
Resolving a low battery level when external power is available ....... 57
Resolving a low battery level when a charged battery is
available ........................................................................................... 57
Resolving a low battery level when no power source is
available ........................................................................................... 57
Resolving a low battery level when the computer cannot exit
Hibernation ....................................................................................... 57
Step 1: Fully charge the battery ........................................................................ 57
Step 2: Disable Hibernation and Sleep ............................................................. 58
Step 3: Discharge the battery ............................................................................ 58
Step 4: Fully recharge the battery ..................................................................... 60
Step 5: Reenable Hibernation and Sleep .......................................................... 60
6 Drives
Identifying installed drives .................................................................................................................. 64
Handling drives ................................................................................................................................... 64
Improving hard drive performance ..................................................................................................... 66
vii
Using Disk Defragmenter ................................................................................................... 66
Using Disk Cleanup ........................................................................................................... 66
Using HP 3D DriveGuard ................................................................................................................... 67
Identifying HP 3D DriveGuard status ................................................................................. 67
Using HP 3D DriveGuard software .................................................................................... 68
Replacing a hard drive ....................................................................................................................... 69
7 External devices
Using a USB device ........................................................................................................................... 73
Connecting a USB device .................................................................................................. 73
Stopping and removing a USB device ............................................................................... 74
Using USB legacy support ................................................................................................. 74
Using external drives .......................................................................................................................... 75
Using optional external devices ......................................................................................... 75
Using an optional external optical drive .............................................................................................. 76
Inserting an optical disc (CD or DVD) ................................................................................ 76
Removing an optical disc (CD or DVD) ............................................................................. 76
8 External media cards
Using the Digital Media Slot ............................................................................................................... 79
Inserting a digital card ........................................................................................................ 79
Stopping and removing a digital card ................................................................................ 80
When the disc tray opens .................................................................................. 77
When the disc tray does not open ..................................................................... 77
9 Memory modules
10 Security
Protecting the computer ..................................................................................................................... 85
Using passwords ................................................................................................................................ 86
Using Computer Setup security features ............................................................................................ 96
Using antivirus software ..................................................................................................................... 98
Using firewall software ....................................................................................................................... 99
Setting passwords in Windows .......................................................................................... 86
Setting passwords in Computer Setup .............................................................................. 86
BIOS administrator password ............................................................................................ 87
Managing a BIOS administrator password ........................................................ 88
Entering a BIOS administrator password .......................................................... 90
Using Computer Setup DriveLock ..................................................................................... 90
Setting a DriveLock password ........................................................................... 91
Entering a DriveLock password ........................................................................ 92
Changing a DriveLock password ...................................................................... 93
Removing DriveLock protection ........................................................................ 94
Using Computer Setup Auto DriveLock ............................................................................. 94
Entering an Automatic DriveLock password ..................................................... 94
Removing Automatic DriveLock protection ....................................................... 95
Securing system devices ................................................................................................... 96
Viewing Computer Setup System Information ................................................................... 96
Using Computer Setup System IDs ................................................................................... 97
viii
Installing critical security updates ..................................................................................................... 100
Using HP ProtectTools Security Manager (select models only) ....................................................... 101
Installing a security cable ................................................................................................................. 102
11 Software updates
Updating software ............................................................................................................................ 103
Updating the BIOS ........................................................................................................... 104
Updating programs and drivers ....................................................................................... 106
Using SoftPaq Download Manager .................................................................................. 106
12 MultiBoot
About the boot device order ............................................................................................................. 108
Enabling boot devices in Computer Setup ....................................................................................... 109
Considering boot order changes ...................................................................................................... 110
Choosing MultiBoot preferences ...................................................................................................... 111
Setting a new boot order in Computer Setup ................................................................... 111
Dynamically choosing a boot device using the F9 prompt ............................................... 111
Setting a MultiBoot Express prompt ................................................................................ 112
Entering MultiBoot Express preferences ......................................................................... 112
Determining the BIOS version ......................................................................... 104
Downloading a BIOS update ........................................................................... 105
13 Management and printing
Using Client Management Solutions ................................................................................................ 113
Configuring and deploying a software image ................................................................... 113
Managing and updating software ..................................................................................... 114
Using the HP Universal Print Driver (select models only) ................................................................ 118
14 Cleaning guidelines
Cleaning products ............................................................................................................................ 119
Cleaning procedures ........................................................................................................................ 120
Cleaning the display ........................................................................................................ 120
Cleaning the sides and cover .......................................................................................... 120
Cleaning the TouchPad and keyboard ............................................................................ 120
15 Computer Setup
Starting Computer Setup .................................................................................................................. 121
Using Computer Setup ..................................................................................................................... 121
Navigating and selecting in Computer Setup ................................................................... 121
Restoring factory settings in Computer Setup ................................................................. 122
Computer Setup menus ................................................................................................................... 122
File menu ......................................................................................................................... 123
Security menu .................................................................................................................. 123
System Diagnostics menu ............................................................................................... 124
System Configuration menu ............................................................................................ 124
HP Client Manager for Altiris (select models only) .......................................... 114
HP CCM (Client Configuration Manager) (select models only) ....................... 116
HP SSM (System Software Manager) ............................................................. 117
ix
Index ................................................................................................................................................................. 128
x
1 Features
Identifying hardware
Components included with the computer may vary by region and model. The illustrations in this chapter
identify the standard features on most computer models.
To see a list of hardware installed in the computer, follow these steps:
1. Select Start > Computer > System Properties.
2. In the left pane, 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.
Top components
TouchPad
Component Description
(1) TouchPad* Moves the pointer and selects or activates items on the screen.
Identifying hardware 1
Component Description
(2) Left TouchPad button* Functions like the left button on an external mouse.
(3) TouchPad scroll zone Scrolls up or down.
(4) Right TouchPad button* Functions like the right button on an external mouse.
*This table describes factory settings. To view or change pointing device preferences, select Start > Control Panel > Hardware
and Sound > Mouse.
2 Chapter 1 Features
Lights
Component Description
(1) Power light
(2) Caps lock light On: Caps lock is on.
(3) Wireless light
(4) QuickLook light
(5) QuickWeb light
On: The computer is on.
●
Blinking: The computer is in the Sleep state.
●
Off: The computer is off or in Hibernation.
●
Blue: An integrated wireless device, such as a wireless local
●
area network (WLAN) device, the HP Mobile Broadband
Module (select models only), and/or a Bluetooth® device, is
on.
Amber: All wireless devices are off.
●
On: HP QuickLook is on.
●
Off: HP QuickLook is off.
●
On: HP QuickWeb is on.
●
Off: HP QuickWeb is off.
●
Buttons and fingerprint reader (select models only)
Identifying hardware 3
Component Description
(1) Power button
(2) Wireless button Turns the wireless feature on or off but does not establish
(3) QuickLook button
When the computer is off, press the button to turn on
●
the computer.
When the computer is on, press the button to shut
●
down the computer.
NOTE: Although you can shut down the computer
with the power button, the recommended procedure
is to use the Windows Shut Down command.
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.
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, select Start >
Control Panel > System and Maintenance > Power
Options.
a wireless connection.
When the computer is off, press the button to open
●
HP QuickLook.
When the computer is on, press the button to open
●
Software Setup.
NOTE: If Software Setup is not available, the
default Web browser opens.
(4) QuickWeb button
(5) Fingerprint reader (select models only) Allows a fingerprint logon to Windows, instead of a
When the computer is off, press the button to open
●
HP QuickWeb.
When the computer is on, press the button to open
●
the default Web browser.
password logon.
4 Chapter 1 Features
Keys
Component Description
(1) esc key Displays system information when pressed in combination with the
fn key.
(2) Function keys Execute frequently used system functions when pressed in
combination with the fn key.
(3) fn key Executes frequently used system functions when pressed in
combination with a function key or the esc key.
(4) Windows logo key Displays the Windows Start menu.
(5) Windows applications key Displays a shortcut menu for items beneath the pointer.
(6) Embedded numeric keypad keys When the embedded numeric keypad is enabled, the keys can be
used like the keys on an external numeric keypad. Enable/disable
the embedded numeric keypad by pressing the fn key in
combination with the num lk key.
(7) num lk key Enables/disables the embedded numeric keypad when pressed in
combination with the fn key.
Identifying hardware 5
Front components
Component Description
(1) Drive light
(2) Speakers (2) Produce sound.
(3) Vent Enables airflow to cool internal components.
Right-side components
Component Description
White: The hard drive is being accessed.
●
Amber: HP 3D DriveGuard has temporarily parked the hard
●
drive.
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.
(1) Digital Media Slot Supports the following optional digital card formats:
(2) Powered USB port Provides power to a USB device, such as an optional external
(3) Audio-out (headphone) jack/Audio-in
(microphone) jack
(4) USB ports (2) Connect optional USB devices.
(5) Security cable slot Attaches an optional security cable to the computer.
6 Chapter 1 Features
MultiMediaCard (MMC)
●
Secure Digital (SD) Memory Card
●
optical drive, if used with a powered USB cable.
Produces sound when connected to optional powered stereo
speakers, headphones, ear buds, a headset, or television audio.
Also connects an optional headset microphone.
NOTE: When a device is connected to the headphone jack, the
computer speakers are disabled.
Component Description
Left-side components
Component Description
NOTE: The security cable is designed to act as a deterrent, but
it may not prevent the computer from being mishandled or stolen.
(1) Battery light
(2) Power connector Connects an AC adapter.
(3) Vent Enables airflow to cool internal components.
(4) DisplayPort Connects an optional digital display device, such as a high-
(5) RJ-45 (network) lights (2)
(6) RJ-45 (network) jack Connects a network cable.
Amber: A battery is charging.
●
White: A battery is close to full charge capacity.
●
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: If the computer is plugged into an external power source,
●
the light turns 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.
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.
performance monitor or projector.
Green (left): The network is connected.
●
Blinking amber (right): The network is showing activity.
●
(7) External monitor port Connects an external VGA monitor or projector.
Identifying hardware 7
Bottom components
Component Description
(1) Battery bay Holds the battery.
(2) SIM slot (select models only) Contains a wireless subscriber identity module (SIM). The SIM slot
(3) Vents (6) Enable airflow to cool internal components.
(4) Hard drive bay Holds the hard drive and contains the memory module slot.
(5) Battery release latch Releases the battery from the battery bay.
is 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 1 Features
Display components
Component Description
(1) Internal display switch Turns off the display and initiates Sleep if the display is closed while
the power is on.
NOTE: The switch is not visible from the outside of the computer.
(2) Internal microphones (2) Record sound.
NOTE: If there is a microphone icon next to each microphone
opening, your computer has internal microphones.
(3) Webcam Records video and captures still photographs.
Identifying hardware 9
Wireless antennas (select models only)
Component Description
(1) WWAN antennas (2)* (select models only) Send and receive wireless signals to communicate with wireless
wide-area networks (WWANs).
(2) WLAN antennas (2)* (select models only) Send and receive wireless signals to communicate with wireless
local area networks (WLANs).
*The antennas are not visible from the outside of the computer. For optimal transmission, keep the areas immediately around
the antennas free from obstructions.
To see wireless regulatory notices, refer to the section of the Regulatory, Safety and Environmental
Notices that applies to your country or region. These notices are located in Help and Support.
10 Chapter 1 Features
Additional hardware components
Component Description
(1) Power cord* Connects an AC adapter to an AC outlet.
(2) AC adapter Converts AC power to DC power.
(3) Battery* Powers the computer when the computer is not plugged into
*Batteries and power cords vary in appearance by country or region.
Identifying the labels
The labels affixed to the computer provide information you may need when you troubleshoot system
problems or travel internationally with the computer:
Serial number label—Provides important information that you may need when contacting technical
●
support. The serial number label is affixed inside the battery bay.
external power.
Component
(1) Product name
Identifying the labels 11
Component
(2) Serial number
(3) Product number
(4) Warranty period
(5) Model description (select models)
Microsoft® Certificate of Authenticity—Contains the Windows Product Key. You may need the
●
Product Key to update or troubleshoot the operating system. This certificate is affixed to the bottom
of the computer.
Regulatory label—Provides regulatory information about the computer. The regulatory label is
●
located inside the battery bay.
Wireless certification label(s) (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 your SIM. This label is located inside the battery bay.
HP Mobile Broadband Module serial number label (select models only)—Provides the serial
●
number of your HP Mobile Broadband Module. This label is located inside the battery bay.
12 Chapter 1 Features
2 Wireless and local area network
Using wireless devices
Wireless technology transfers data across radio waves instead of wires. Your computer is 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.
Using wireless devices 13
Identifying wireless and network icons
Icon Name Description
Wireless (connected) Identifies the location of the wireless light and the wireless button on
Wireless
(disconnected)
HP Connection
Manager
Network status
(connected)
Network status
(disconnected)
Using the wireless controls
the computer. Also identifies the Wireless Assistant software on the
computer and indicates that one or more of the wireless devices are on.
Identifies the Wireless Assistant software on the computer and
indicates that all of the wireless devices are off.
Opens HP Connection Manager, which enables you to create a
connection with an HP Mobile Broadband device (select models only).
Indicates that one or more of your network drivers are installed and one
or more network devices are connected to the network.
Indicates that one or more of your network drivers are installed but no
network devices are connected to the network.
You can control the wireless devices in your computer using these features:
Wireless button
●
Wireless Assistant software (select models only)
●
HP Connection Manager software (select models only)
●
Operating system controls
●
Using the wireless button
The computer has a wireless button and light, and one or more wireless devices 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 amber, all
wireless devices are off.
Because the wireless devices are enabled at the factory, you can use the wireless button to turn on or
turn off the wireless devices simultaneously. Individual wireless devices can be controlled through the
operating system controls.
NOTE: If the wireless devices are disabled by Computer Setup, the wireless button will not work until
you reenable your devices.
14 Chapter 2 Wireless and local area network
Using Wireless Assistant software (select models only)
A wireless device can be turned on or off using the Wireless Assistant software. If a wireless device is
disabled in Computer Setup, it must be reenabled in Computer Setup 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, position the mouse pointer over the wireless icon in the
notification area, at the far right of the taskbar.
NOTE: To display the wireless icon, click the Show Hidden Icons icon (< or <<) in the notification
area.
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 > Mobile PC > Windows Mobility Center.
2. Click the wireless icon in the Wireless Assistant tile, which is located in the bottom-left corner of
Windows® Mobility Center.
3. Click Properties.
4. Select the check box next to HP Wireless Assistant icon in notification area.
5. Click Apply.
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 > 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
connections.
To access the Network and Sharing Center, select Start > Control Panel > Network and Internet >
Network and Sharing Center.
Using wireless devices 15
For more information, refer to Help and Support. Select Start > Help and Support.
Using a WLAN (select models only)
With a WLAN device, you can access a wireless local area network (WLAN), which is composed of other
computers and accessories that are linked by a wireless router or a wireless access point.
NOTE: The terms wireless router and wireless access point are often used interchangeably.
A large-scale WLAN, such as a corporate or public WLAN, typically uses wireless access points
●
that can accommodate a large number of computers and accessories and can separate critical
network functions.
A home or small office WLAN typically uses a wireless router, which allows several wireless and
●
wired computers to share an Internet connection, a printer, and files without requiring additional
pieces of hardware or software.
NOTE: 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.
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
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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) and
Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP). Because wireless radio signals travel outside 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, and 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
then 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 uses a WEP key to
◦
encode or encrypt all network data before it is transmitted. 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.
Close your network
●
If possible, prevent your network name (SSID) from being broadcast by the wireless transmitter.
Most networks initially broadcast the name, telling any computer nearby that your network is
available. By closing the network, other computers are less likely to know that your network exists.
NOTE: If your network is closed and the SSID is not broadcast, you will need to know or remember
the SSID to connect new devices to the network. Write down the SSID and store it in a secure
place before closing the network.
Using a WLAN (select models only) 17
Connecting to a WLAN
To connect to the WLAN, follow these steps:
1. Be su r e t h a t the WLAN device is on. If it is on, t h e wireless light is blue. If the wireless light is amber,
press the wireless button.
2. Select Start > Connect to.
3. Select your WLAN from the list, and then type the network security key, if required.
If the network is unsecured, meaning that anyone can access the network, a warning is
●
displayed. Click Connect Anyway to accept the warning and complete the connection.
If the network is a security-enabled WLAN, you are prompted to enter a network security key,
●
which is a security code. Type the code, and then click Connect to complete the connection.
NOTE: If no WLANs are listed, you are out of range of a wireless router or access point.
NOTE: If you do not see the network you want to connect to, click Set up a connection or
network. A list of options will appear that includes creating a new network connection, as well as
troubleshooting connection issues.
After the connection is made, place the cursor 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.
More information about using a WLAN is available through the following resources:
Information from your ISP and the manufacturer's instructions included with your wireless router
●
and other WLAN equipment
Information and Web site links provided in Help and Support
●
For a list of public WLANs near you, contact your ISP or search the Web. Web sites that list public
WLANs include Cisco Internet Mobile Office Wireless Locations, Hotspotlist, and Geektools. Check with
each public WLAN location for cost and connection requirements.
For additional information on connecting your computer to a corporate WLAN, contact your network
administrator or IT department.
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.
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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 by using WLANs. Using HP Mobile
Broadband requires a network service provider (called a mobile network operator), 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 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.
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 PIN (personal identification number), 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 provided 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 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 pressing the power button. 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.
http://www.hp.com/go/mobilebroadband (US only).
5. Turn the computer upside down on a flat surface, with the battery bay toward you.
Using HP Mobile Broadband (select models only) 19
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.
NOTE: HP Mobile Broadband will be 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 pressing the power button. 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.
20 Chapter 2 Wireless and local area network
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