HP Pro x2 612 G1 User Guide

User Guide

Bluetooth is a trademark owned by its proprietor and used by Hewlett-Packard Company under license. Microsoft and Windows are U.S. registered trademarks of the Microsoft group of companies.

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: July 2014

Document Part Number: 763869-001

Product notice

This user guide describes features that are common to most models. Some features may not be available on your computer.

This computer may require upgraded and/ or separately purchased hardware and/or a DVD drive to install the Windows 7 software and take full advantage of Windows 7 functionality. Go to

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/ windows7/get-know-windows-7 for details.

To access the latest user guide, go to

http://www.hp.com/support, and select your

country. Select Drivers & Downloads, and then follow the on-screen instructions.

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 full refund subject to the refund policy of your seller.

For any further information or to request a full refund of the price of the computer, please contact your 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

Tablet edge components ...................................................................................................................... 4

Display .................................................................................................................................................. 6

Power keyboard ................................................................................................................................... 7

Top ....................................................................................................................................... 7

TouchPad ............................................................................................................................ 8

Lights ................................................................................................................................... 9

Keys ................................................................................................................................... 10

Right side ........................................................................................................................... 11

Left side ............................................................................................................................. 12

Rear ................................................................................................................................... 13

Releasing the tablet from the power keyboard .................................................................. 13

Changing your tablet's settings .......................................................................................................... 14

Changing your tablet's view ............................................................................................... 14

Adjusting your tablet's autorotate lock ............................................................... 14

Adjusting your tablet's screen brightness .......................................................... 14

3 Connecting to a network ................................................................................................................................. 15

Connecting to a wireless network ....................................................................................................... 15

Using the wireless controls ................................................................................................ 15

Turning wireless devices on or off ..................................................................... 15

Using HP Connection Manager (select models only) ........................................ 16

Using the wireless button .................................................................................. 16

Using operating system controls ....................................................................... 16

Using a WLAN ................................................................................................................... 16

Using an Internet service provider .................................................................... 17

Setting up a WLAN ............................................................................................ 17

Configuring a wireless router ............................................................................ 17

Protecting your WLAN ....................................................................................... 18

Connecting to a WLAN ...................................................................................... 18

Using HP Mobile Broadband (select models only) ............................................................ 18

Inserting and removing a SIM ........................................................................... 19

Using GPS (select models only) ........................................................................................ 20

Using Bluetooth wireless devices ...................................................................................... 20

Connecting to a wired network ........................................................................................................... 21

Connecting to a local area network (LAN) ......................................................................... 21

4 Navigating using the keyboard, touch gestures and pointing devices ............................................................ 22

Using pointing devices ....................................................................................................................... 22

Setting pointing device preferences ................................................................................... 22

Using the TouchPad and gestures .................................................................................... 22

Turning the TouchPad off and on ...................................................................... 23

Tapping ............................................................................................................. 23

Scrolling ............................................................................................................ 24

2-finger pinch zoom ........................................................................................... 24

2-finger click ...................................................................................................... 25

Rotating (select models only) ............................................................................ 25

Flicking (select models only) ............................................................................. 26

Using the digitizer pen (select models only) ....................................................................................... 26

Identifying the pen components ......................................................................................... 26

Holding the pen .................................................................................................................. 26

Storing the pen .................................................................................................................. 26

Using the keyboard ............................................................................................................................ 27

Identifying the hot keys ...................................................................................................... 28

Using keypads ................................................................................................................... 29

Using the embedded numeric keypad ............................................................... 29

Turning the embedded numeric keypad on and off .......................... 30

Switching key functions on the embedded numeric keypad ............. 30

Using the integrated numeric keypad ................................................................ 30

Using an optional external numeric keypad ...................................................... 30

5 Multimedia ....................................................................................................................................................... 31

Audio .................................................................................................................................................. 31

Connecting speakers ......................................................................................................... 31

Adjusting the volume ......................................................................................................... 31

Connecting headphones and microphones ....................................................................... 31

Checking audio functions on the computer ........................................................................ 32

Webcams ........................................................................................................................................... 32

Video .................................................................................................................................................. 32

VGA ................................................................................................................................... 33

DisplayPort ........................................................................................................................ 34

Connecting wired displays using MultiStream Transport ................................................... 34

6 Power management ........................................................................................................................................ 36

Shutting down the computer ............................................................................................................... 36

Setting power options ......................................................................................................................... 36

Using power-saving states ................................................................................................. 36

Initiating and exiting Sleep ................................................................................ 37

Initiating and exiting Hibernation ....................................................................... 37

Using the power meter and power settings ....................................................... 37

Setting password protection on wakeup ........................................................... 38

Using battery power ........................................................................................................... 38

Factory-sealed battery ...................................................................................... 38

Finding additional battery information ............................................................... 38

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

Conserving battery power ................................................................................. 40

Using external AC power ................................................................................................... 40

Testing an AC adapter ...................................................................................... 41

7 External cards and devices ............................................................................................................................. 42

Using memory card readers ............................................................................................................... 42

Inserting a memory card .................................................................................................... 42

Removing a memory card .................................................................................................. 42

Using smart cards .............................................................................................................................. 43

Inserting a smart card ........................................................................................................ 44

Removing a smart card ...................................................................................................... 44

Using a USB device ........................................................................................................................... 44

Connecting a USB device .................................................................................................. 45

Removing a USB device .................................................................................................... 45

Using optional external devices .......................................................................................................... 45

Using optional external drives ............................................................................................ 46

8 Drives .............................................................................................................................................................. 47

Handling drives ................................................................................................................................... 47

Improving hard drive performance ..................................................................................................... 47

Using Disk Defragmenter ................................................................................................... 47

Using Disk Cleanup ........................................................................................................... 48

vii

9 Security ........................................................................................................................................................... 49

Protecting the computer ..................................................................................................................... 49

Using passwords ................................................................................................................................ 49

Setting passwords in Windows .......................................................................................... 50

Setting passwords in Computer Setup .............................................................................. 51

Managing a BIOS administrator password ........................................................................ 51

Entering a BIOS administrator password .......................................................... 52

Managing a Computer Setup DriveLock password ........................................................... 52

Setting a DriveLock password ........................................................................... 53

Entering a DriveLock password ........................................................................ 54

Changing a DriveLock password ...................................................................... 54

Removing DriveLock protection ........................................................................ 54

Using Computer Setup Automatic DriveLock .................................................................... 55

Entering an Automatic DriveLock password ..................................................... 55

Removing Automatic DriveLock protection ....................................................... 56

Using antivirus software ..................................................................................................................... 56

Using firewall software ....................................................................................................................... 56

Installing critical security updates ....................................................................................................... 57

Using HP Client Security (select models only) ................................................................................... 57

Using the fingerprint reader (select models only) ............................................................................... 57

Locating the fingerprint reader ........................................................................................... 57

10 Maintenance ................................................................................................................................................. 58

Cleaning your computer ..................................................................................................................... 58

Cleaning procedures .......................................................................................................... 58

Cleaning the display (All-in-Ones or Notebooks) .............................................. 58

Cleaning the sides or cover ............................................................................... 58

Cleaning the TouchPad, keyboard, or mouse ................................................... 59

Updating programs and drivers .......................................................................................................... 59

Using SoftPaq Download Manager .................................................................................................... 59

11 Backup and recovery .................................................................................................................................... 60

Creating recovery media and backups ............................................................................................... 60

Guidelines .......................................................................................................................... 60

Creating recovery media with HP Recovery Disc Creator ................................................. 60

Creating recovery media ................................................................................... 61

Backing up your information .............................................................................................. 61

Performing a system recovery ............................................................................................................ 62

Using the Windows recovery tools ..................................................................................... 62

Using f11 recovery tools (select models only) ................................................................... 63

viii

Using Windows 7 operating system media ........................................................................ 63

12 Computer Setup (BIOS), MultiBoot, and HP PC Hardware Diagnostics (UEFI) ........................................... 65

Using Computer Setup ....................................................................................................................... 65

Starting Computer Setup ................................................................................................... 65

Navigating and selecting in Computer Setup ..................................................................... 65

Restoring factory settings in Computer Setup ................................................................... 66

Updating the BIOS ............................................................................................................. 67

Determining the BIOS version ........................................................................... 67

Downloading a BIOS update ............................................................................. 67

Synchronizing the tablet and keyboard ............................................................. 68

Using MultiBoot .................................................................................................................................. 68

About the boot device order ............................................................................................... 68

Choosing MultiBoot preferences ........................................................................................ 68

Setting a new boot order in Computer Setup .................................................... 69

Dynamically choosing a boot device using the f9 prompt ................................. 69

Setting a MultiBoot Express prompt .................................................................. 69

Entering MultiBoot Express preferences ........................................................... 70

Using HP PC Hardware Diagnostics (UEFI) ...................................................................................... 70

Downloading HP PC Hardware Diagnostics (UEFI) to a USB device ............................... 71

13 Support ......................................................................................................................................................... 72

Contacting support ............................................................................................................................. 72

Labels ................................................................................................................................................. 73

14 Specifications ................................................................................................................................................ 74

Input power ......................................................................................................................................... 74

Operating environment ....................................................................................................................... 74

Appendix A Traveling with or shipping your computer ....................................................................................... 75

Appendix B Troubleshooting .............................................................................................................................. 76

Troubleshooting resources ................................................................................................................. 76

Resolving issues ................................................................................................................................ 76

The computer is unable to start up .................................................................................... 76

The computer screen is blank ............................................................................................ 76

Software is functioning abnormally .................................................................................... 77

The computer is on but not responding ............................................................................. 77

The computer is unusually warm ....................................................................................... 77

An external device is not working ...................................................................................... 77

The wireless network connection is not working ................................................................ 78

A disc does not play ........................................................................................................... 78

A movie is not visible on an external display ..................................................................... 78

The process of burning a disc does not begin, or it stops before completion .................... 79

Appendix C Electrostatic discharge ................................................................................................................... 80

Index ................................................................................................................................................................... 81

1Welcome

After you set up and register the computer, we recommend the following steps to get the most out of your smart investment:

NOTE: Your computer may include a tablet only or a tablet plus keyboard. Computer color, features,

and accessories may vary. Refer to the illustrations in this guide that most closely match your computer.

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 56.

Connecting to a network on page 15.

Using antivirus software

Get to know your computer—Learn about your computer features. See

●

computer on page 4 and Navigating using the keyboard, touch gestures and pointing devices on page 22 for additional information.

Find installed software—Access a list of the software preinstalled on the computer:

●

Select Start > All Programs. 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 60.

NOTE: For easy access to Computer Setup (BIOS), connect a keyboard if available. If you are

using a tablet only, follow the instructions provided.

Getting to know your

Backup and

Finding information

You have already used

Setup Instructions

to turn on the computer and locate this guide. To locate

resources that provide product details, how-to information, and more, use this table.

Resources For information about

Setup Instructions

Help and Support

To access Help and Support, select Start > Help and Support.

To access the latest user guide, go to

http://www.hp.com/support, and select your country.

Select Drivers & Downloads, and then follow the onscreen instructions.

Worldwide support

To get support in your language, go to

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

HP website

To access the latest user guide, go to

http://www.hp.com/support, and select your country.

Select Drivers & Downloads, and then follow the onscreen instructions.

poster

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

●

Online chat with an HP technician

●

Support telephone numbers

●

HP service center locations

●

Support information

●

Ordering parts and finding additional help

●

Accessories available for the device

●

Safety & Comfort Guide

To access the user guides, select Start > Help and Support > User guides.

– or –

Go to

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

Regulatory, Safety, and Environmental Notices

To access the user guides, select Start > Help and Support > User guides.

Limited Warranty

To access this guide, select Start > Help and Support > User guides > View Warranty Information.

– or –

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

Go to

*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

●

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.

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

Proper workstation setup, posture, health, and work habits

●

Electrical and mechanical safety information

●

Regulatory and safety information

●

Battery disposal information

●

Warranty information

2 Chapter 1 Welcome

Resources For information about

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

Tablet edge components

Components Description

(1) Fingerprint reader (select models only) Allows a fingerprint logon to Windows, instead of a

password logon.

(2) Vents (2) Enable airflow to cool internal components.

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.

(3) Webcam (rear) Records video and captures photographs. Some models

allow you to video conference and chat online using streaming video.

For information on using the webcam, select Start > All Programs > Communication and Chat > HP WebCam.

(4) Camera flash Provides light for rear webcam photos.

(5)

(6) Volume button Controls speaker volume on the tablet.

Rotate lock button When the tablet is on, press the rotate lock button to lock

the autorotate feature of the display. To unlock the autorotate feature, press the button again.

To increase speaker volume, press the + edge of the

●

button.

To decrease speaker volume, press the – edge of the

●

button.

4 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer

Components Description

(7)

(8) Pen holder (select models only) Holds the digital pen.

(9) Alignment post connectors (2) Align and attach the tablet to the power keyboard.

(10) Micro SIM slot Supports a micro wireless subscriber identity module

(11) Docking port Connects the tablet to the power keyboard.

(12) Micro memory card reader Reads optional micro memory cards that store, manage,

Power switch

When the computer is off, slide the switch to turn on

●

the tablet.

When the computer is on, slide the switch to turn off

●

the computer.

When the computer is in the Sleep state or

●

Hibernation, slide the switch briefly to exit Sleep or Hibernation.

CAUTION: Pressing and holding down the power button

will result in the loss of unsaved information.

If the tablet has stopped responding and Windows® shutdown procedures are ineffective, press and hold the power button for at least 14 seconds to turn off the computer.

To learn more about your power settings: Select Start > Control Panel > System and Security > Power Options.

(SIM).

share, or access information.

(13)

(14)

(15) AC adapter/Battery light

USB 3.0 port Connects an optional USB device, such as a keyboard,

Audio-out (headphone) jack/Audio-in (microphone) jack

mouse, external drive, printer, scanner or USB hub.

For details about different types of USB ports, see

USB device on page 44.

Connects optional powered stereo speakers, headphones, earbuds, a headset, or a television audio cable.

WARNING! To reduce the risk of personal injury, adjust

the volume before using headphones, earbuds, or a headset. For additional safety information, see the

Regulatory, Safety and Environmental Notices

NOTE: When a device is connected to the jack, the

computer speakers are disabled.

NOTE: Be sure that the device cable has a 4-conductor

connector that supports both audio-out (headphone) and audio-in (microphone).

NOTE: Stand-alone microphones and headphones with

separate microphone jacks are not supported.

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 90 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.

Using a

Tablet edge components 5

Components Description

Off: The battery is fully charged.

●

(16)

(17) Smart card reader Supports optional smart cards.

Display

Power connector Connects an AC adapter.

Component Description

(1) WLAN antennas (2)* Send and receive wireless signals.

(2) WWAN antennas (2) (select

models only)*

(3) Webcam light On: The webcam is on.

(4) Webcam (front) Records video and captures photographs. Some models allow you to

(5) Ambient light sensor Automatically adjusts the display brightness based on the lighting

(6) Internal microphones (2) Record sound.

(7) Speakers (2) Produce sound.

(8)

*The antenna is not visible from the outside of the computer. For optimal transmission, keep the areas immediately around the antenna free from obstructions. For wireless regulatory notices, see the section of the

Environmental Notices

Windows logo key Displays the Windows Start menu.

that applies to your country or region.

Send and receive wireless signals to communicate with wireless wide area networks (WWAN).

video conference and chat online using streaming video.

For information on using the webcam, select Start > All Programs > Communication and Chat > HP WebCam.

conditions in your environment.

Regulatory, Safety, and

6 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer

Power keyboard

Top

Component Description

(1) Alignment posts (2) Align and attach the tablet to the power keyboard.

(2) Docking connector Connects the tablet to the power keyboard.

CAUTION: To prevent damage to the docking

connector, do not touch the connector when the tablet is detached from the power keyboard.

(3) Release latch Releases the tablet from the power keyboard. To

release the tablet, press the release latch.

Power keyboard 7

TouchPad

Component Description

(1) TouchPad on/off button Turns the TouchPad on and off.

(2) TouchPad zone Reads your finger gesture to move the pointer or activate

items on the screen.

(3) Left TouchPad button Functions like the left button of an external mouse.

(4) Right TouchPad button Functions like the right button on an external mouse.

8 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer

Lights

Component Description

(1) Caps lock light

(2) TouchPad light

(3)

(4)

(5)

(6) Num lock light On: Num lock is on.

Mute light

Microphone mute light

Wireless light

On: Caps lock is on, which switches the keys to all

●

capital letters.

Amber: The TouchPad is off.

●

Off: The TouchPad is on.

●

Amber: Computer sound is off.

●

Off: Computer sound is on.

●

Amber: microphone sound is off.

●

Off: microphone sound is on.

●

Off: 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.

●

Power keyboard 9

Keys

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.

(5) Embedded numeric keypad When the keypad is turned on, it can be used like an external

(6) num lk key Turns the embedded numeric keypad on and off when pressed in

Windows logo key Displays the Windows Start menu.

NOTE: Function keys do not display or function from the on-

screen tablet keyboard.

numeric keypad.

Each key on the keypad performs the function indicated by the icon in the upper-right corner of the key.

combination with the fn key.

10 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer

Right side

Component Description

(1)

(2) Docking connector Connects an optional docking device.

(3)

Audio-out (headphone)/Audio-in (microphone) jack

USB 3.0 port Connects an optional USB device, such as a keyboard, mouse,

Connects optional powered stereo speakers, headphones, earbuds, a headset, or a television audio cable.

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

Environmental Notices

Help and Support > User Guides.

NOTE: When a device is connected to the jack, the computer

speakers are disabled.

NOTE: Be sure that the device cable has a 4-conductor

connector that supports both audio-out (headphone) and audio-in (microphone).

external drive, printer, scanner or USB hub.

For details about different types of USB ports, see

device on page 44.

. To access the user guides, select Start >

Regulatory, Safety, and

Using a USB

Power keyboard 11

Left side

Component Description

(1)

(2) AC adapter/Battery light

(3)

(4)

Power connector Connects an AC adapter.

DisplayPort Connects an optional digital display device, such as a high-

USB 3.0 charging (powered) port Connects an optional USB device, such as a keyboard, mouse,

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 90 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.

●

performance monitor or projector.

external drive, printer, scanner or USB hub. Standard USB ports will not charge all USB devices or will charge using a low current. Some USB devices require power and require you to use a powered port.

NOTE: USB charging ports can also charge select models of

cell phones and MP3 players, even when the computer is off.

For details about different types of USB ports, see

device on page 44.

Using a USB

(5) Memory card reader Reads data from and writes data to memory cards such as SD.

12 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer

Rear

Component Description

(1)

(2)

RJ-45 (network) jack/lights Connects a network cable.

●

External monitor port Connects an external VGA monitor or projector.

Releasing the tablet from the power keyboard

Green (left): The network is connected.

Amber (right): Activity is occurring on the network.

To release the tablet from the power keyboard, follow these steps:

CAUTION: To prevent damage to the docking connector, do not touch the connector when the

tablet is detached from the power keyboard.

1. Press the release latch on the power keyboard (1).

2. Lift and remove the tablet (2).

Power keyboard 13

Changing your tablet's settings

You can change view and screen brightness.

Changing your tablet's view

Your tablet's orientation, or view, changes automatically from landscape to portrait view, or from portrait to landscape view.

1. To change the view of your tablet from landscape view to portrait view:

Hold the tablet vertically, and then turn it 90 degrees to the right (in a clockwise direction).

2. To change the view of your tablet from portrait view to landscape view:

Hold the tablet vertically, and then turn it 90 degrees to the left (in a counter-clockwise direction).

Adjusting your tablet's autorotate lock

To adjust your tablet's rotate lock button when the tablet is undocked:

When the tablet is on, press the rotate lock button to lock the autorotate feature of the display.

▲

To unlock the autorotate feature, press the button again.

– or –

Go to Start > Settings.

▲

Adjusting your tablet's screen brightness

To adjust the screen brightness:

Swipe from the right edge of the TouchPad or select Start > Control Panel > Power Options.

▲

NOTE: From the Windows desktop, you can also tap the Power Meter icon in the notification area at

the far right of the taskbar, Adjust screen brightness, and then move the slider next to Screen brightness at the bottom of the screen.

14 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer

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.

HP Mobile Broadband Module (select models only)—A wireless wide area network (WWAN)

●

device that gives you wireless connectivity over a much larger area. Mobile network operators install 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.

For more information about wireless technology, see the information and website links provided in Help and Support. To access Help and Support, select Start > Help and Support.

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

●

Turning wireless devices on or off

You can use the wireless button or HP Connection Manager (select models only) to turn on and turn off wireless devices.

NOTE: A computer may have a wireless button, a wireless switch, or a wireless key on the

keyboard. The term wireless button is used throughout this guide to refer to all types of wireless controls.

To turn off wireless devices using HP Connection Manager:

Right-click the HP Connection Manager icon in the notification area, at the far right of the

▲

taskbar, and then click the power button next to the desired device.

-or-

Connecting to a wireless network 15

Select Start > All Programs > Productivity and Tools > HP Connection Manager, and then click the power button next to the desired device.

Using HP Connection Manager (select models only)

HP Connection Manager provides a central location for managing your wireless devices, an interface for connecting to the Internet using HP Mobile Broadband, and an interface for sending and receiving SMS (text) messages. HP Connection Manager allows you to manage the following devices:

Wireless local area network (WLAN)/Wi-Fi

●

Wireless wide area network (WWAN)/HP Mobile Broadband

●

Bluetooth

●

HP Connection Manager provides information and notifications on connection status, power status, SIM details, and SMS messages. Status information and notifications are provided in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar.

To open HP Connection Manager:

Click the HP Connection Manager icon in the taskbar.

▲

-or-

Select Start > All Programs > Productivity and Tools > HP Connection Manager.

For more information, see the HP Connection Manager software Help.

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.

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:

Select Start > Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center.

▲

For more information, access Help and Support by selecting Start > Help and Support.

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

16 Chapter 3 Connecting to a network

wireless router

and

wireless access point

are often used interchangeably.

A large-scale WLAN, such as a corporate or public WLAN, typically uses wireless access points

●

that can accommodate a large number of computers and accessories and can separate critical network functions.

A home or small office WLAN typically uses a wireless router, which allows several wireless and

●

wired computers to share an Internet connection, a printer, and files without requiring additional pieces of hardware or software.

To use the WLAN device in your computer, you must connect to a WLAN infrastructure (provided through a service provider or a public or corporate network).

Using an Internet service provider

When you are setting up Internet access in your home, you must establish an account with an Internet service provider (ISP). To purchase Internet service and a modem, contact a local ISP. The ISP will help set up the modem, install a network cable to connect your wireless computer to the modem, and test the Internet service.

NOTE: Your ISP will give you a user ID and a password to use for Internet access. Record this

information and store it in a safe place.

Setting up a WLAN

To set up a WLAN and connect to the Internet, you need the following equipment:

A broadband modem (either DSL or cable) (1) and high-speed Internet service purchased from

●

an Internet service provider

A wireless router (2) (purchased separately)

●

A wireless computer (3)

●

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 configuring a wireless router, 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.

Connecting to a wireless network 17

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 Help and Support by selecting Start > Help and Support.

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. Click the network status icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar.

3. Select a WLAN to connect to.

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 OK to complete the connection.

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, click Open Network and Sharing

Center. and then 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 HP Mobile Broadband (select models only)

HP Mobile Broadband enables your computer to use WWANs to access the Internet from more places and over larger areas than it can by using WLANs. Using HP Mobile Broadband requires a

18 Chapter 3 Connecting to a network

network service provider (called a network operator. Coverage for HP Mobile Broadband is similar to cellular phone voice coverage.

When used with mobile network operator service, HP Mobile Broadband gives you the freedom to stay connected to the Internet, send email, 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.

LTE (Long Term Evolution), which provides access to networks supporting LTE technology.

●

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 SIM. A SIM contains basic information about you, such as a personal identification number (PIN), as well as network information. Some computers include a SIM that is preinstalled in the battery bay. If the SIM is not preinstalled, it may be provided in the HP Mobile Broadband information provided with your computer or the mobile network operator may provide it separately from the computer.

mobile network operator

), which in most cases is a cellular phone

For information about inserting and removing the SIM, see the

on page 19 section in this chapter.

For information about HP Mobile Broadband and how to activate service with a preferred mobile network operator, see the HP Mobile Broadband information included with your computer. For additional information, go to

Inserting and removing a SIM

CAUTION: To prevent damage to the connectors, use minimal force when inserting a SIM.

To insert a SIM, follow these steps:

1. Shut down the computer.

2. On select models, close the display.

3. Disconnect all external devices connected to the computer.

4. Unplug the power cord from the AC outlet.

Inserting and removing a SIM

http://www.hp.com/go/mobilebroadband (select regions/countries only).

Connecting to a wireless network 19

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