HP TouchSmart tm2-1010ee User Manual

HP TouchSmart User Guide

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

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

First Edition: January 2010

Document Part Number: 582064-001

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).

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iv Safety warning notice

Table of contents

1 Features

Identifying the installed hardware and software ................................................................................... 2

Identifying hardware ............................................................................................................ 2

Identifying software .............................................................................................................. 2

Components ......................................................................................................................................... 3

Top components .................................................................................................................. 3

TouchPad ............................................................................................................ 3

Lights ................................................................................................................... 4

Keys .................................................................................................................... 5

Front components ................................................................................................................ 5

Right-side components ........................................................................................................ 6

Left-side components .......................................................................................................... 7

Display components ............................................................................................................ 8

Rear components ................................................................................................................ 9

Bottom components ........................................................................................................... 10

2 Networking

Choosing an ISP ................................................................................................................................ 12

Creating a wireless connection .......................................................................................................... 14

Using Internet Services & Offers ....................................................................................... 12

Using ISP-provided icons .................................................................................................. 12

Using the Windows Connect to the Internet Wizard .......................................................... 13

Identifying wireless icons and controls .............................................................................. 14

Identifying wireless and network status icons ................................................... 14

Using the wireless key and button .................................................................... 15

Using Wireless Assistant software .................................................................... 15

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

Connecting to a WLAN ...................................................................................................... 16

Connecting to an existing wireless network ...................................................... 17

Setting up a wireless network ........................................................................... 17

Step 1: Purchase high-speed Internet service .................................. 18

Step 2: Purchase and install a wireless router ................................. 18

Step 3: Configure the computer to connect to the wireless

network ............................................................................................. 18

Protecting your WLAN ....................................................................................... 19

Roaming to another network ............................................................................. 19

Using HP Mobile Broadband (select models only) ............................................................ 20

Inserting a SIM .................................................................................................. 20

Removing a SIM ................................................................................................ 21

Using Bluetooth wireless devices ...................................................................................... 22

Bluetooth and Internet Connection Sharing (ICS) ............................................. 22

Connecting to a wired network ........................................................................................................... 23

3 Pointing devices, touch screen, and keyboard

Using pointing devices ....................................................................................................................... 25

Setting pointing device preferences ................................................................................... 25

Using the TouchPad .......................................................................................................... 25

Turning the TouchPad on and off ...................................................................... 25

Using TouchPad gestures ................................................................................. 26

Scrolling ............................................................................................ 26

Pinching/Zooming ............................................................................. 27

Rotating ............................................................................................ 27

Using the digitizer pen ........................................................................................................................ 29

Identifying the pen components ......................................................................................... 29

Holding the pen .................................................................................................................. 29

Storing the pen .................................................................................................................. 29

Using the touch screen ....................................................................................................................... 30

Rotating the display ........................................................................................................... 30

Using the rotate button ...................................................................................... 31

Using touch screen gestures ............................................................................................. 31

Tapping (or clicking) .......................................................................................... 31

Flicking .............................................................................................................. 32

Dragging ............................................................................................................ 32

Scrolling ............................................................................................................ 32

Rotating ............................................................................................................. 33

Pinching ............................................................................................................ 33

Setting touch screen preferences ..................................................................... 34

Using the action keys ......................................................................................................................... 35

Using the hotkeys ............................................................................................................................... 37

4 Multimedia

Multimedia features ............................................................................................................................ 39

Using the media activity keys ............................................................................................................. 40

Multimedia software ........................................................................................................................... 41

Using HP TouchSmart software or HP MediaSmart software ........................................... 41

Using multimedia software ................................................................................................. 41

Installing multimedia software from a disc ......................................................................... 42

Audio .................................................................................................................................................. 43

Adjusting the volume ......................................................................................................... 43

Connecting external audio devices .................................................................................... 43

Webcam ............................................................................................................................................. 45

Adjusting webcam properties ............................................................................................. 46

Video .................................................................................................................................................. 47

Using the external monitor port .......................................................................................... 47

Connecting an HDMI device .............................................................................................. 47

5 Power management

Shutting down the computer ............................................................................................................... 50

Setting power devices ........................................................................................................................ 51

Using power-saving states ................................................................................................. 51

Conserving power .............................................................................................................. 52

Using the battery meter ..................................................................................................... 52

Using power plans ............................................................................................................. 53

Setting password protection on wakeup ............................................................................ 53

Using battery power ........................................................................................................................... 54

Finding battery information in Help and Support ............................................................... 54

Using Battery Check .......................................................................................................... 54

Displaying the remaining battery charge ........................................................................... 55

Removing or inserting the battery ...................................................................................... 55

Charging a battery ............................................................................................................. 56

Maximizing battery discharge time .................................................................................... 57

Managing low battery levels .............................................................................................. 57

Calibrating a battery ........................................................................................................... 58

Storing a battery ................................................................................................................ 58

Disposing of a used battery ............................................................................................... 59

Replacing the battery ......................................................................................................... 59

Configuring audio for HDMI ............................................................................... 48

Initiating and exiting Sleep ................................................................................ 51

Initiating and exiting Hibernation ....................................................................... 51

Viewing the current power plan ......................................................................... 53

Selecting a different power plan ........................................................................ 53

Customizing power plans .................................................................................. 53

Identifying low battery levels ............................................................................. 57

Resolving a low battery level ............................................................................. 58

Resolving a low battery level when external power is available ....... 58

Resolving a low battery level when a charged battery is

available ........................................................................................... 58

Resolving a low battery level when no power source is

available ........................................................................................... 58

Resolving a low battery level when the computer cannot exit

Hibernation ....................................................................................... 58

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Switching between graphics modes (select models only) .................................................................. 60

Using external AC power .................................................................................................................... 61

6 External devices

Using Digital Media Slot cards ........................................................................................................... 64

Using a USB device ........................................................................................................................... 66

7 Drives

Handling drives ................................................................................................................................... 69

Improving hard drive performance ..................................................................................................... 70

Using HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection ................................................................................... 71

Replacing a hard drive ....................................................................................................................... 73

Using external drives .......................................................................................................................... 77

Sharing an optical drive ...................................................................................................................... 79

Connecting AC power ........................................................................................................ 61

Testing an AC adapter ....................................................................................................... 62

Inserting a digital card ........................................................................................................ 64

Removing a digital card ..................................................................................................... 65

Connecting a USB device .................................................................................................. 66

Removing a USB device .................................................................................................... 66

Using Disk Defragmenter ................................................................................................... 70

Using Disk Cleanup ........................................................................................................... 70

Identifying HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection status ................................................ 71

Managing power with a parked hard drive ......................................................................... 71

Using HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection software .................................................... 72

Connecting optional external drives ................................................................................... 77

Using an external optical drive (select models only) .......................................................... 77

Removing an optical disc when the disc tray will not open ............................... 77

8 Memory modules

Adding or replacing memory modules ................................................................................................ 81

9 Security

Protecting the computer ..................................................................................................................... 85

Using passwords ................................................................................................................................ 86

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Setting passwords in Windows .......................................................................................... 86

Setting passwords in Setup Utility ..................................................................................... 86

Administrator password ..................................................................................... 87

Managing an administrator password ............................................... 87

Entering an administrator password ................................................. 88

Power-on password .......................................................................................... 88

Managing a power-on password ...................................................... 88

Entering a power-on password ......................................................... 88

Using antivirus software ..................................................................................................................... 89

Using firewall software ....................................................................................................................... 90

Installing critical security updates ....................................................................................................... 91

Installing an optional security cable .................................................................................................... 92

Using the fingerprint reader (select models only) ............................................................................... 93

Registering fingerprints ...................................................................................................... 93

Using your registered fingerprint to log on to Windows ..................................................... 94

10 Backup and recovery

Creating recovery discs ...................................................................................................................... 96

Backing up your information ............................................................................................................... 97

Using Windows Backup and Restore ................................................................................ 97

Using system restore points .............................................................................................. 98

Performing a recovery ........................................................................................................................ 99

Recovering from the recovery discs .................................................................................. 99

Recovering from the dedicated recovery partition (select models only) ............................ 99

When to create restore points ........................................................................... 98

Create a system restore point ........................................................................... 98

Restore to a previous date and time ................................................................. 98

11 Setup Utility (BIOS)

Starting Setup Utility ......................................................................................................................... 101

Using Setup Utility ............................................................................................................................ 102

Changing the language of Setup Utility ........................................................................... 102

Navigating and selecting in Setup Utility .......................................................................... 102

Displaying system information ......................................................................................... 103

Restoring default settings in Setup Utility ........................................................................ 103

Exiting Setup Utility .......................................................................................................... 1 03

Setup Utility menus .......................................................................................................................... 105

Main menu ....................................................................................................................... 105

Security menu .................................................................................................................. 10 5

System Configuration menu ............................................................................................ 105

Diagnostics menu ............................................................................................................ 106

Updating the BIOS ........................................................................................................................... 107

Determining the BIOS version ......................................................................................... 107

Downloading a BIOS update ........................................................................................... 107

Appendix A Product information

Input power ....................................................................................................................................... 110

Operating environment ..................................................................................................................... 111

Traveling with the computer ............................................................................................................. 112

Routine care ..................................................................................................................................... 113

Cleaning the display ........................................................................................................ 113

Cleaning the TouchPad and keyboard ............................................................................ 113

Labels ............................................................................................................................................... 114

Index ................................................................................................................................................................. 115

1Features

Identifying the installed hardware and software

Identifying hardware

To see a list of hardware installed in the computer:

Select Start > Control Panel > System and Security. Then in the System area, click Device

▲

Manager.

You can also add hardware or modify device configurations using Device Manager.

NOTE: Windows® includes the User Account Control feature to improve the security of your computer.

You may be prompted for your permission or password for tasks such as installing applications, running utilities, or changing Windows settings. Refer to Help and Support for more information.

Identifying software

To see a list of the software installed on the computer:

Select Start > All Programs.

▲

2 Chapter 1 Features

Components

Top components

TouchPad

Component Description

(1) TouchPad off indicator To turn the TouchPad zone on and off, quickly double-tap the

(2) Left TouchPad button Functions like the left button on an external mouse.

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

(4) TouchPad zone Moves the pointer and selects or activates items on the screen.

TouchPad off indicator.

NOTE: When the TouchPad zone is active, the light is off.

Components 3

Lights

Component Description

(1) Caps lock light White: Caps lock is on.

(2) Mute light Amber: Computer sound is off.

(3) Wireless light

(4) TouchPad off indicator

White: An integrated wireless device, such as a wireless

●

local area network (WLAN) device and/or a Bluetooth® device, is on.

NOTE: Wireless devices are enabled at the factory.

Amber: All wireless devices are off.

●

Amber: The TouchPad is off.

●

Off: The TouchPad is on.

●

4 Chapter 1 Features

Keys

Component Description

(1) esc key Displays system information when pressed in combination with

(2) fn key Executes frequently used system functions when pressed in

(3) Windows logo key Displays the Windows Start menu.

(4) Windows applications key Displays a shortcut menu for items beneath the cursor.

(5) Action keys Execute frequently used system functions.

Front components

the fn key.

combination with an arrow key or the esc key.

Components 5

Component Description

(1) Vent Enables 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.

(2) External WWAN antenna Sends and receives wireless signals to communicate with wireless

Right-side components

Component Description

wide area networks (WWAN).

NOTE: For optimal transmission, keep the areas immediately

around the antenna free from obstruction. 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.

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

(2) Rotate button Rotates the screen image counterclockwise to 4 orientations:

(3) Power light

(4) Power switch

logon.

landscape primary, portrait primary, landscape secondary, and portrait secondary.

NOTE: Computers with WWAN capabilities only support

landscape primary and portrait secondary orientations.

White: The computer is on.

●

Blinking white: The computer is in the Sleep state.

●

Off: The computer is off or in Hibernation.

●

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

●

on the computer.

When the computer is on, briefly slide the power switch

●

to exit Sleep.

When the computer is in the Sleep state, briefly slide the

●

power switch to exit Sleep.

When the computer is in Hibernation, briefly slide the

●

power switch to exit Hibernation.

6 Chapter 1 Features

Component Description

If the computer has stopped responding and Windows® shutdown procedures are ineffective, slide and hold the power switch for at least 5 seconds to turn off the computer.

To learn more about your power settings, select Start >

Control Panel > System and Security > Power Options.

(5) Wireless light

(6) Wireless button Turns the wireless feature on or off, but does not establish a

(7) Digital Media Slot Supports the following digital card formats:

(8) USB ports (2) Connect optional USB devices.

(9) Battery light

White: An integrated wireless device, such as a wireless

●

local area network (WLAN) device and/or a Bluetooth® device, is on.

NOTE: Wireless devices are enabled at the factory.

Amber: All wireless devices are off.

●

wireless connection.

NOTE: A wireless network must be set up in order to

establish a wireless connection.

Memory Stick

●

Memory Stick Pro

●

MultiMediaCard

●

Secure Digital Memory Card

●

xD-Picture Card

●

Off: The computer is running on battery power.

●

(10) Power connector Connects an AC adapter.

Left-side components

Blinking amber: The battery has reached a low battery

●

level, a critical battery level, or there is a battery error.

Amber: A battery is charging.

●

White: The computer is connected to external power and

●

the battery is fully charged.

Components 7

Component Description

(1) Vent Enables 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.

(2) HDMI port Connects an optional video or audio device, such as a high-

(3) USB port Connects an optional USB device.

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

(microphone) jack

(5) Drive light

(6) Pen tether hole Connects the pen tether.

(7) Pen holder Holds the digitizer pen.

Display components

definition television, or any compatible digital or audio component.

Produces sound when connected to optional powered stereo speakers, headphones, earbuds, a headset, or television audio. Also connects an optional headset microphone.

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

speakers are disabled.

Blinking white: The hard drive is being accessed.

●

Amber: HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection has

●

temporarily parked the hard drive.

8 Chapter 1 Features

Component Description

(1) WWAN antennas (2)* (select models only) Send and receive wireless signals to communicate with wireless

wide-area networks (WWAN).

(2) WLAN antennas (2)* Send and receive wireless signals to communicate with wireless

(3) Internal microphones (2) Record sound.

(4) Webcam light On: The webcam is in use.

(5) Webcam Records video and captures still photographs.

(6) Speakers (2) Produce sound.

(7) Convertible hinge Swivels the display and converts the computer from traditional

*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.

Rear components

local area networks (WLAN).

notebook mode to slate mode or from slate mode to notebook mode. In slate mode, the display is rotated and folded flat, so that you can view content while carrying the computer.

Component Description

(1) Security cable slot Attaches an optional security cable to the computer.

NOTE: The security cable is designed to act as a

deterrent, but it may not prevent the computer from being mishandled or stolen.

(2) External monitor port Connects an external VGA monitor or projector.

(3) RJ-45 (network) jack Connects a network cable.

Components 9

Bottom components

Component Description

(1) Battery release latch Releases the battery from the battery bay.

(2) Battery bay Holds the battery.

NOTE: The battery is preinstalled in the battery bay at the

factory.

(3) Vents (4) 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.

(4) Hard drive bay Holds the hard drive.

(5) Memory module compartment Contains the memory module slots.

10 Chapter 1 Features

2Networking

The computer supports 2 types of Internet access:

Wireless—For mobile Internet access, you can use a wireless connection. To learn about adding

●

the computer to an existing network or setting up a wireless network, refer to

connection on page 14.

Wired—You can access the Internet by connecting to a broadband network using the RJ-45

●

(network) jack. To learn about connecting using the RJ-45 jack, refer to

network on page 23.

Creating a wireless

Connecting to a wired

Choosing an ISP

You must set up Internet service before you can connect to the Internet. The computer includes the following software features to help you set up a new Internet account or configure the computer to use an existing account:

Internet Services & Offers (available in some locations)

●

ISP-provided icons (available in some locations)

●

Windows Connect to the Internet Wizard (available in all locations)

●

Using Internet Services & Offers

If the Internet Service & Offers utility is supported in the country or region in which you purchased the computer, you can access the utility by using the following method:

Select Start > All Programs > Online Services > Get Online.

▲

The Internet Services & Offers utility assists with these tasks:

Signing up for a new Internet account

●

Configuring the computer to use an existing account

●

Using ISP-provided icons

If ISP-provided icons are supported in the country or region in which you purchased the computer, the icons may be displayed either individually on the Windows desktop or grouped in a desktop folder named Online Services.

To set up a new Internet account or configure the computer to use an existing account, double-

▲

click an icon, and then follow the instructions on the screen.

12 Chapter 2 Networking

Using the Windows Connect to the Internet Wizard

You can use the Windows Connect to the Internet Wizard to connect to the Internet in any of these situations:

If you already have an account with an ISP.

●

If you have a disc from an ISP.

●

If you do not have an Internet account and would like to select an ISP from the list provided within

●

the wizard. (The list of ISP providers is not available in all regions.)

If you have selected an unlisted ISP and the ISP has provided you with such information as a

●

specific IP address and POP3 and SMTP settings.

To access the Windows Connect To The Internet Wizard and instructions for using the wizard, select

Start > Help and Support.

NOTE: If you are prompted within the wizard to choose between enabling or disabling Windows

Firewall, choose to enable the firewall.

Choosing an ISP 13

Creating a wireless connection

Wireless technology transfers data across radio waves instead of wires. Your computer may be equipped with one or more of the following wireless devices:

Wireless local area network (WLAN) device—Connects the computer to wireless local area

●

networks (commonly referred to as Wi-Fi networks, wireless LANs, or WLANs) in corporate offices, your home, and public places such as airports, restaurants, coffee shops, hotels, and universities. In a WLAN, each mobile wireless device communicates with a wireless router or a wireless access point.

HP Mobile Broadband Module—A wireless wide area network (WWAN) device that provides

●

access to information wherever mobile network operator service is available. In a WWAN, each mobile device communicates to a mobile network operator’s base station. Mobile network operators install networks of base stations (similar to cell phone towers) throughout large geographic areas, effectively providing coverage across entire states, regions, or even countries.

Bluetooth® device—Creates a personal area network (PAN) to connect to other Bluetooth-enabled

●

devices such as computers, phones, printers, headsets, speakers, and cameras. In a PAN, each device communicates directly with other devices, and devices must be relatively close together— typically within 10 meters (approximately 33 feet) of each other.

For more information on wireless technology, refer to the information and Web site links provided in Help and Support.

Identifying wireless icons and controls

Identifying wireless and network status icons

Icon Name Description

Wireless (connected) Identifies the location of the wireless light and the wireless key

Wireless (disconnected) Identifies the Wireless Assistant software on the computer and

HP Connection Manager Opens HP Connection Manager, which enables you to create

Network status Indicates the status of network connections, both wired and

and button on the computer. Also identifies the Wireless Assistant software on the computer and indicates that one or more of the wireless devices are on.

indicates that all of the wireless devices are off.

a connection with an HP Mobile Broadband device (select models only).

wireless.

When you move the mouse pointer over the icons, more detailed information is displayed.

14 Chapter 2 Networking

Using the wireless key and button

The computer has a wireless key (1), a wireless button (2), two wireless lights (3), and one or more wireless devices. All of the wireless devices on your computer are enabled at the factory.

If the wireless lights are amber, all wireless devices are off. If the wireless lights are white, an integrated wireless device, such as a wireless local area network (WLAN) device and/or a Bluetooth® device, is on.

The wireless lights indicate the overall power state of your wireless devices, not the status of individual devices. Press the wireless key or wireless button to turn the wireless devices off or on.

Because the wireless devices are enabled at the factory, you can use the wireless key or wireless button to turn on or turn off the wireless devices simultaneously. Individual wireless devices can be controlled through Wireless Assistant software.

Using Wireless Assistant software

A wireless device can be turned on or off using the Wireless Assistant software. If a wireless device is disabled in Setup Utility, it must be reenabled in Setup Utility before it can be turned on or off using Wireless Assistant.

NOTE: Enabling or turning on a wireless device does not automatically connect the computer to a

network or a Bluetooth-enabled device.

To view the state of the wireless devices, click the Show hidden icons icon, the arrow at the left of the notification area, and position the mouse pointer over the wireless icon.

Creating a wireless connection 15

If the wireless icon is not displayed in the notification area, complete the following steps to change Wireless Assistant properties:

1. Select Start > Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > Windows Mobility Center.

2. Click the wireless icon in the Wireless Assistant tile, which is located in the bottom row of Windows®

Mobility Center.

3. Click Properties.

4. Select the check box next to HP Wireless Assistant icon in notification area.

5. Click Apply.

6. Click Close.

For more information, refer to the Wireless Assistant software Help:

1. Open Wireless Assistant by clicking the wireless icon in Windows Mobility Center.

2. Click the Help button.

Using operating system controls

Some operating systems also offer a way to manage integrated wireless devices and the wireless connection. For example, Windows provides the Network and Sharing Center that allows you to set up a connection or network, connect to a network, manage wireless networks, and diagnose and repair network problems.

To access the Network and Sharing Center, select Start > Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center.

For more information, select Start > Help and Support.

Connecting to 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 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).

16 Chapter 2 Networking

Connecting to an existing wireless network

To connect the computer to an existing wireless network, follow these steps:

1. Be sure that the wireless device is on (wireless light is white). If the wireless light is amber, press

the wireless key or wireless button.

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

3. Select a network to connect to.

4. Click Connect.

5. 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 OK to complete the connection.

Setting up a wireless network

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.

NOTE: When setting up a wireless connection, be sure that your computer and wireless router are

synchronized. To synchronize your computer and wireless router, turn your computer and wireless router off and then back on.

As your network grows, additional wireless and wired computers can be connected to the network to access the Internet.

For additional help in setting up your WLAN, refer to the information provided by your router manufacturer or your ISP.

Creating a wireless connection 17

Step 1: Purchase high-speed Internet service

If you already have high-speed Internet service (DSL, cable, or satellite), begin with

and install a wireless router on page 18. If you do not have high-speed Internet service, follow these

steps:

1. Contact a local ISP to purchase high-speed Internet service and a DSL or cable modem. 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.

2. Your ISP will give you a user ID and password to access the Internet. Record this information and

store it in a safe place.

Step 2: Purchase and install a wireless router

Read this section carefully before you install the wireless router using the router manufacturer's instructions and your wireless computer. If you need technical assistance during the router installation, contact the router manufacturer.

NOTE: It is recommended that you temporarily connect your new wireless computer to the router by

using the network cable provided with the router. This will ensure that the computer can access the Internet.

1. Be sure that the wireless light on the computer is white. If the wireless light is amber, press the

wireless key or wireless button.

2. During the router installation, the router manufacturer's software allows you to change the network

name (SSID) and enable security to protect the privacy of your wireless network. Many routers are shipped with a default network name and with security disabled. If you change the default network name or enable security during the router setup, record the information and store it in a safe place. You will need this information when you configure the computer and any other existing computers to access the router.

Step 2: Purchase

NOTE: If you do not enable security, an unauthorized wireless user can access the data on the

computer and use your Internet connection without your knowledge. For more information on securing your wireless network, refer to the Wireless guide in Help and Support.

The Windows operating system also provides tools to help you set up your wireless network for the first time. To use the Windows tools to set up your network:

Select Start > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center > Set up a new connection

▲

or network > Set up a new network. Then follow the on-screen instructions.

Step 3: Configure the computer to connect to the wireless network

1. Be sure that the wireless device is on (wireless light is white). If the wireless light is amber, press

the wireless key or wireless button.

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

3. Select a network to connect to.

4. Click Connect.

5. 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 OK to complete the connection.

6. Test the wireless network by opening your Web browser and accessing a Web site.

18 Chapter 2 Networking

Protecting your WLAN

Because the WLAN standard was designed with only limited security capabilities—basically to foil casual eavesdropping rather than more powerful forms of attack—it is essential to understand that WLANs are vulnerable to well-known and well-documented security weaknesses.

WLANs in public areas, or “hotspots,” like coffee shops and airports may not provide any security. New technologies are being developed by wireless manufacturers and hotspot service providers that make the public environment more secure and anonymous. If you are concerned about the security of your computer in a hotspot, limit your network activities to noncritical e-mail and basic Internet surfing.

When you set up a WLAN or access an existing WLAN, always enable security features to protect your network from unauthorized access. The common security levels are Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA)Personal and Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP). Because wireless radio signals travel outside 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

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Many wireless base stations, gateways, or routers provide built-in security features such as wireless security protocols and firewalls. With the correct wireless transmitter, you can protect your network from the most common wireless security risks.

Work behind a firewall

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A firewall is a barrier that checks both data and requests for data that are sent to your network, and discards any suspicious items. Firewalls are available in many varieties, both software and hardware. Some networks use a combination of both types.

Use wireless encryption

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A variety of sophisticated encryption protocols is available for your WLAN. Find the solution that works best for your network security:

Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) is a wireless security protocol that encodes or encrypts all

◦

network data before it is transmitted using a WEP key. Usually, you can allow the network to assign the WEP key. Alternatively, you can set up your own key, generate a different key, or choose other advanced options. Without the correct key, others will not be able to use the WLAN.

WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access), like WEP, uses security settings to encrypt and decrypt data

◦

that is transmitted over the network. However, instead of using one static security key for encryptions as WEP does, WPA uses “temporal key integrity protocol” (TKIP) to dynamically generate a new key for every packet. It also generates different sets of keys for each computer on the network.

Roaming to another network

When you move your computer within range of another WLAN, Windows attempts to connect to that network. If the attempt is successful, your computer is automatically connected to the new network. If Windows does not recognize the new network, follow the same procedure you used initially to connect to your WLAN.

Creating a wireless connection 19

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.

NOTE: Computers with WWAN capabilities only support landscape primary and portrait secondary

orientations.

HP Mobile Broadband supports the following technologies:

HSPA (High Speed Packet Access), which provides access to networks based on the Global

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System for Mobile Communications (GSM) telecommunications standard.

EV-DO (Evolution Data Optimized), which provides access to networks based on the code division

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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 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.

For information on inserting and removing the SIM, refer to

a SIM on page 21.

For information on HP Mobile Broadband and how to activate service with a preferred mobile network operator, refer to the HP Mobile Broadband information included with your computer. For additional information, see the HP Web site at

Inserting a SIM

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

To insert a SIM:

1. Shut down the computer. If you are not sure whether the computer is off or in Hibernation, turn the

computer on by sliding the power switch. Then shut down the computer through the operating system.

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.

Inserting a SIM on page 20 and Removing

http://www.hp.com/go/mobilebroadband (US only).

20 Chapter 2 Networking

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