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Bluetooth is a trademark owned by its common to most models. Some features otherwise using any software product proprietor and used by Hewlett-Packard may not be available on your computer. preinstalled on this computer, you agree to Company under license. Intel is a be bound by the terms of the HP End User trademark of Intel Corporation in the U.S.
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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.
Table of contents 1 Starting right ..............................1 Best practices ............................1 Fun things to do ............................ 2 More HP resources ..........................3 2 Getting to know your computer ........................4 Finding your hardware and software information ................. 4 Locating hardware ....................... 4 Locating software .........................
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Using Bluetooth wireless devices (select models only) ............. 18 Connecting to a wired network ......................19 Connecting to a local area network (LAN) ................. 19 4 Enjoying entertainment features ......................... 20 Using the webcam ..........................22 Using audio ............................22 Connecting speakers ......................
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Selecting a power plan ........................40 Running on battery power ........................41 Removing a user-replaceable battery ................41 Finding battery information ....................41 Conserving battery power ....................42 Identifying low battery levels ....................42 Resolving a low battery level ..................... 42 Resolving a low battery level when external power is available ......
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Setting Windows passwords ....................57 Setting Setup Utility (BIOS) passwords ................57 Using Internet security software ......................58 Using antivirus software ..................... 58 Using firewall software ....................... 58 Installing software updates ......................... 58 Installing Windows updates ....................59 Installing HP and third-party software updates ..............59 Securing your wireless network ......................
Starting right This computer is a powerful tool designed to enhance your work and entertainment. Read this chapter to learn about best practices after setup, fun things to do with your computer, and where to get more HP resources. Best practices To get the most out of your smart investment, after you set up and register the computer, we recommend the following steps: ●...
Fun things to do ● You know that you can watch a YouTube video on the computer. But did you know that you can also connect your computer to a TV or gaming console? For more information, see Connecting an HDMI device. ●...
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.
Getting to know your computer Finding your hardware and software information Locating hardware To find out what hardware is installed on your computer: From the Start screen, type c, and then select Control Panel. Select System and Security, and then in the System area, click Device Manager. A list displays all the devices installed in your computer.
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Component Description ● Power light White: The computer is on. ● Blinking white: The computer is in the Sleep state, which is an energy-saving mode. The computer shuts off power to the display and other unneeded components. ● Off: The computer is off or in Hibernation. Hibernation is an energy-saving mode that uses the least amount of power.
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Component Description ● AC adapter light White: The AC adapter is connected and the battery is charged. ● Blinking white: The battery has reached a low battery level. ● Amber: The AC adapter is connected and the battery is charging. ●...
Left side Component Description 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. Vent Enables airflow to cool internal components. NOTE: The computer fan starts up automatically to cool internal components and prevent overheating.
Display Component Description WLAN antennas (2)* Send and receive wireless signals to communicate with wireless local area networks (WLANs). Webcam light On: The webcam is in use. HP TrueVision HD Webcam Records video, captures still photographs, and allows you to video conference and chat online using streaming video.
TouchPad Component Description ● TouchPad light Amber: The TouchPad is off. ● Off: The TouchPad is on. TouchPad on/off button Turns the TouchPad on or off. TouchPad zone Moves the on-screen pointer and selects or activates items on the screen. NOTE: The TouchPad also supports edge-swipe gestures.
Lights Component Description ● Power light White: The computer is on. ● Blinking white: The computer is in the Sleep state, which is an energy-saving mode. The computer shuts off power to the display and other unneeded components. ● Off: The computer is off or in Hibernation. Hibernation is an energy-saving mode that uses the least amount of power.
Buttons and speakers Component Description ● Power button When the computer is off, press the button to turn on the computer. ● When the computer is in the Sleep state, press the button briefly to exit Sleep. ● When the computer is in Hibernation, press the button down briefly to exit Hibernation.
Keys Component Description Displays system information when pressed in combination with the key. Displays system information when pressed in combination with the key. Windows logo key Returns you to the Start screen from an open app or the Desktop. NOTE: Pressing the Windows logo key again will return you to the previous screen.
Bottom Component Description Battery bay Holds the battery. Battery lock Unlocks the battery. 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.
Labels The labels affixed to the computer provide information you may need when you troubleshoot system problems or travel internationally with the computer. The labels are in easily accessible locations. ● Service label—Provides important information, including the following: NOTE: Your label may look slightly different from the illustration in this section. Component Product name Serial number...
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.
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.
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) ●...
Wireless encryption uses security settings to encrypt and decrypt data that is transmitted over the network. For more information, from the Start screen, type h, and then select Help and Support. Connecting to a WLAN To connect to a WLAN, follow these steps: Be sure that the WLAN device is on.
Connecting to a wired network Your computer supports a local area network (LAN) wired connection. A LAN connection uses a network cable and is much faster than a modem connection, which uses a telephone cable. Both cables are sold separately. WARNING! To reduce the risk of electric shock, fire, or damage to the equipment, do not plug a modem cable or telephone cable into an RJ-45 (network) jack.
Enjoying entertainment features Use your HP computer as an entertainment hub to socialize via the webcam, enjoy and manage your music, and download and watch movies. Or, to make your computer an even more powerful entertainment center, connect external devices like a monitor, projector, or TV, or speakers and headphones.
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Component Description HDMI port Connects an optional video or audio device, such as a high-definition television, any compatible digital or audio component, or a high-speed HDMI device. USB 3.0 ports (2) Connect optional USB 3.0 devices and provide enhanced USB power performance. NOTE: For details about different types of USB ports, see...
Using the webcam Your computer has an integrated webcam, a powerful social networking tool that allows you to communicate up close with friends and colleagues, next door or on the other side of the world. With the webcam, you can stream video with your instant messaging software, capture and share video, and take still photos.
Checking the sound To check the audio functions on your computer, follow these steps: From the Start screen, type c, and then select Control Panel from the list of applications. Select Hardware and Sound, and then select Sound. When the Sound window opens, select the Sounds tab. Under Program Events, select any sound event, such as a beep or alarm, and then click Test.
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To see the computer screen image on a high-definition TV or monitor, connect the high-definition device according to the following instructions. Connect one end of the HDMI cable to the HDMI port on the computer. Connect the other end of the cable to the high-definition TV or monitor. Press to alternate the computer screen image between 4 display states: ●...
Configuring HDMI audio settings HDMI is the only video interface that supports high-definition video and audio. After you connect an HDMI TV to the computer, you can then turn on HDMI audio by following these steps: From the Windows desktop, right-click the Speakers icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar, and then select Playback devices.
Navigating using touch gestures, pointing devices, and the keyboard Your computer allows navigation using touch gestures in addition to the keyboard and mouse. Touch gestures can be used on your computer TouchPad. NOTE: An external USB mouse (purchased separately) can be connected to one of the USB ports on the computer.
Using the TouchPad The TouchPad, allows you to navigate the computer with simple finger movements. You can customize the touch gestures by changing settings, button configurations, click speed, and pointer options. From the Start screen type c to display the Apps list. Select Control Panel, and then select Hardware and Sound.
Turning the TouchPad off or on To turn the TouchPad off or on, quickly double-tap the TouchPad on/off button. The TouchPad light is off when the TouchPad is on. The TouchPad supports a variety of gestures that let your fingers scroll, swipe, pinch, and rotate to manipulate items on the screen.
Using TouchPad gestures A TouchPad allows you to control the pointer on the screen using your fingers. TIP: Use the left and right buttons on the TouchPad as you would use the corresponding buttons on an external mouse. NOTE: TouchPad gestures are not supported in all programs. To view a demonstration of each gesture: From the Start screen, type c to display the Apps list.
Scrolling Scrolling is useful for moving up, down, or sideways on a page or image. ● Place two fingers slightly apart on the TouchPad zone and then drag them up, down, left, or right. Pinching/Zooming Pinching and zooming allows you to zoom in or out on images or text. ●...
Edge swipes Edge swipes allow you to perform tasks such as changing settings and finding or using apps. Right-edge swipe The right-edge swipe reveals the charms, which lets you search, share, start apps, access devices, or change settings. ● Swipe your finger gently from the right edge to display the charms. Using TouchPad gestures...
Top-edge swipe The top-edge swipe allows you to access All Apps available on the Start screen. IMPORTANT: When an app is active, the top-edge gesture varies depending on the app. ● Swipe your finger gently from the top edge to display available apps. Left-edge swipe The left-edge swipe reveals your open apps so that you can switch to them quickly.
Using the keyboard and mouse The keyboard and mouse allow you to type, select items, scroll and to perform the same functions as you do by using touch gestures. The keyboard also allows you to use action keys and hot keys to perform specific functions.
Icon Description Plays the next track of an audio CD or the next section of a DVD or a BD. Decreases speaker volume incrementally as long as you hold down the key. Increases speaker volume incrementally as long as you hold down the key. Mutes or restores speaker sound.
Using the hot keys A hot key is a combination of the key and the key. To use a hot key: ▲ Briefly press the key, and then briefly press the second key of the combination. Function Hot key Description Display system information.
Managing power Your computer can operate on either battery power or external power. When the computer is only running on battery power and an AC power source is not available to charge the battery, it is important to monitor and conserve the battery charge. Your computer supports power plans to manage how your computer uses and conserves power so that you can balance computer performance with power conservation.
Initiating Sleep and Hibernation Windows has two power-saving states, Sleep and Hibernation. ● Sleep–The Sleep state is automatically initiated after a period of inactivity when running on battery power or on external power. Your work is saved to memory, allowing you to resume your work very quickly.
When the computer exits Sleep, the power lights turn on and the computer returns to the screen where you stopped working. NOTE: If you have set a password to be required on wakeup, you must enter your Windows password before the computer will return to the screen. Enabling and exiting user-initiated hibernation You can enable user-initiated Hibernation and change other power settings and timeouts using Power Options:...
Using the power meter and power settings The power meter is located on the Windows desktop. The power meter allows you to quickly access power settings and view the remaining battery charge. ● To display the percentage of remaining battery charge and the current power plan, on the Windows Desktop, point over the power meter icon.
Selecting a power plan A power plan manages how the computer uses power and helps you conserve power and maximize performance. To change the power plan, from the Start screen, type power, select Settings, and then select Power Options. The following power plans are available: ●...
Running on battery power When a charged battery is in the computer and the computer is not plugged into external power, the computer runs on battery power. If the computer has a charged battery installed and the AC adapter is disconnected from the computer, the computer automatically switches to battery power and the display brightness decreases to conserve battery life.
HP Support Assistant provides the following tools and information about the battery: ● Battery test ● Information on battery types, specifications, life cycles, and capacity To access battery information, select the HP Support Assistant app on the Start screen, and then select Battery and performance.
Resolving a low battery level when the computer cannot exit Hibernation When the computer lacks sufficient power to exit Hibernation, follow these steps: Replace the discharged user-replaceable battery with a charged battery, or connect the AC adapter to the computer and to external power. Exit Hibernation by pressing the power button.
● When running Disk Defragmenter on computers with internal hard drives ● When performing a backup or recovery When you connect the computer to external AC power: ● The battery begins to charge. ● The display brightness increases. ● The power meter icon on the Windows desktop changes appearance. When you disconnect external AC power, the following events occur: ●...
HP CoolSense HP CoolSense automatically detects when the computer is not in a stationary position and adjusts performance and fan settings to keep the surface temperature of your computer at the optimum level of comfort. When HP CoolSense is off, the position of the computer is not detected and the performance and fan options remain at the factory setting.
Refreshing your software content with Intel Smart Connect Technology (select models only) When the computer is in the Sleep state, Intel Smart Connect Technology periodically causes the computer to exit Sleep. Smart Connect then updates the content for certain open applications and reinitiates Sleep.
Managing and sharing information Drives are digital storage devices that help you store, manage, share, and access information. Your computer has an internal hard drive that stores your computer's software and operating system, as well as provides storage for all of your personal files. Some computers also have an optical drive that allows you to read or write to a CD, DVD, or Blu-ray Disc (BD), to play and record audio and video.
▲ Connect the USB cable for the device to the USB port. NOTE: The USB port on your computer may look slightly different from the illustration in this section. A sound indicates that the device has been detected. NOTE: The first time you connect a USB device, a message displays on the Desktop and an icon shows in the notification area letting you know that the device is recognized by the computer.
Inserting and removing a digital storage card To insert a digital storage card: CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to the digital card connectors, use minimal force to insert a digital card. Hold the card label-side up, with the connectors facing the computer. Insert the card into the digital storage slot, and then press in on the card until it is firmly seated.
Sharing data and drives and accessing software When your computer is part of a network, you are not limited to using only the information that is stored in your computer. Network computers can exchange software and data with each other. NOTE: When a disc like a DVD movie or game is copy-protected, it cannot be shared.
Maintaining your computer It is important to perform regular maintenance to keep your computer in optimal condition. This chapter provides information about improving the performance of your computer by running tools such as Disk Defragmenter and Disk Cleanup. It also provides information about updating your programs and drivers, instructions for cleaning your computer, and tips for traveling with your computer.
Using Disk Defragmenter As you use your computer over time, the files on the hard drive become fragmented. A fragmented drive means data on your drive is not contiguous (sequential) and, because of this, the hard drive works harder to locate files, thus slowing down the computer. Disk Defragmenter consolidates (or physically reorganizes) the fragmented files and folders on the hard drive so that the system can run more efficiently.
Updating programs and drivers HP recommends that you update your programs and drivers on a regular basis to the latest versions. Updates can resolve issues and bring new features and options to your computer. Technology is always changing, and updating programs and drivers allows your computer to run the latest technology available.
Cleaning your computer Cleaning your computer and external devices helps keep them in good working condition. If you don't clean your computer, dust and dirt particles can build up. CAUTION: Avoid using the following cleaning products to clean your computer: Strong solvents, such as alcohol, acetone, ammonium chloride, methylene chloride, and hydrocarbons, which can permanently damage the surface of the computer.
Traveling with or shipping your computer If you have to travel with or ship your computer, here are some tips to keep in mind to keep your equipment safe. ● Prepare the computer for traveling or shipping: ◦ Back up your information to an external drive. ◦...
Securing your computer and information Computer security is essential for protecting the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of your information. Standard security solutions provided by the Windows operating system, HP applications, the non-Windows Setup Utility (BIOS), and other third-party software can help protect your computer from a variety of risks, such as viruses, worms, and other types of malicious code.
● Change your passwords at least every three months. ● An ideal password is long and has letters, punctuation, symbols, and numbers. ● Before you send your computer for service, back up your files, delete confidential files, and then remove all password settings. For additional information about Windows passwords, such as screen-saver passwords, from the Start screen, type h, and then select Help and Support.
To set, change, or delete an administrator or power-on password in Setup Utility (BIOS): To start Setup Utility (BIOS), turn on or restart the computer, quickly press esc, and then press f10. Use the arrow keys to select Security, and then follow the on-screen instructions. Your changes take effect when the computer restarts.
Installing Windows updates Updates to the operating system and other software may have become available after the computer left the factory. Microsoft sends out alerts regarding critical updates. To protect the computer from security breaches and computer viruses, install all critical updates from Microsoft as soon as you receive an alert.
Using an optional security cable lock A security cable lock, which is purchased separately, is designed to act as a deterrent, but it may not prevent the computer from being mishandled or stolen. Security cable locks are only one of several methods that should be employed as part of a complete security solution to help maximize theft protection.
10 Using Setup Utility (BIOS) and System Diagnostics Setup Utility, or Basic Input/Output System (BIOS), controls communication between all the input and output devices on the system (such as disk drives, display, keyboard, mouse, and printer). Setup Utility (BIOS) includes settings for the types of devices installed, the startup sequence of the computer, and the amount of system and extended memory.
Downloading a BIOS update CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to the computer or an unsuccessful installation, download and install a BIOS update only when the computer is connected to reliable external power using the AC adapter. Do not download or install a BIOS update while the computer is running on battery power, docked in an optional docking device, or connected to an optional power source.
Using System Diagnostics System Diagnostics allows you to run diagnostic tests to determine if the computer hardware is functioning properly. To start System Diagnostics: Turn on or restart the computer, quickly press esc, and then press f2. Click the diagnostic test you want to run, and then follow the on-screen instructions. NOTE: If you need to stop a diagnostic test while it is running, press esc.
11 Backing up, restoring, and recovering Your computer includes tools provided by HP and the operating system to help you safeguard your information and retrieve it if you ever need to. These tools will help you return your computer to a proper working state or even back to the original factory state, all with simple steps.
Creating recovery media and backups Recovery after a system failure is only as good as your most recent backup. After you successfully set up the computer, create HP Recovery media. This step creates a backup of the HP Recovery partition on the computer. The backup can be used to reinstall the original operating system in cases where the hard drive is corrupted or has been replaced.
Creating HP Recovery media HP Recovery Manager is a software program that offers a way to create recovery media after you successfully set up the computer. HP Recovery media can be used to perform system recovery if the hard drive becomes corrupted. System recovery reinstalls the original operating system and the software programs installed at the factory, and then configures the settings for the programs.
Restore and recovery There are several options for recovering your system. Choose the method that best matches your situation and level of expertise: ● If you need to restore your personal files and data, you can use Windows File History to restore your information from the backups you created.
Using Windows Refresh for quick and easy recovery When your computer is not working properly and you need to regain system stability, the Windows Refresh option allows you to start fresh and keep what is important to you. IMPORTANT: Refresh removes any traditional applications that were not originally installed on the system at the factory.
Click Change PC settings in the bottom-right corner of the screen, and then select General from the PC settings screen. Under Remove everything and reinstall Windows, select Get started, and follow the on- screen instructions. Recovering using HP Recovery Manager HP Recovery Manager software allows you to recover the computer to its original factory state.
Using the HP Recovery partition to recover a minimized image (select models only) The HP Recovery partition (select models only) allows you to perform a minimized image recovery without the need for recovery discs or a recovery USB flash drive. This type of recovery can only be used if the hard drive is still working.
Removing the HP Recovery partition HP Recovery Manager software allows you to remove the HP Recovery partition to free up hard drive space. IMPORTANT: Removing the HP Recovery partition means you can no longer use Windows Refresh, the Windows Remove everything and reinstall Windows option, or the HP Recovery Manager option for minimized image recovery.
12 Specifications Input power The power information in this section may be helpful if you plan to travel internationally with the computer. The computer operates on DC power, which can be supplied by an AC or a DC power source. The AC power source must be rated at 100–240 V, 50–60 Hz.
Operating environment Factor Metric U.S. Temperature Operating 5°C to 35°C 41°F to 95°F Nonoperating -20°C to 60°C -4°F to 140°F Relative humidity (noncondensing) Operating 10% to 90% 10% to 90% Nonoperating 5% to 95% 5% to 95% Maximum altitude (unpressurized) Operating -15 m to 3,048 m -50 ft to 10,000 ft...
13 Electrostatic Discharge Electrostatic discharge is the release of static electricity when two objects come into contact—for example, the shock you receive when you walk across the carpet and touch a metal door knob. A discharge of static electricity from fingers or other electrostatic conductors may damage electronic components.
Index replacing 43 computer, traveling 43 AC adapter 6 storing 43 configuring audio for HDMI 25 AC adapter, testing 44 battery bay 13, 14 connecting to a WLAN 18 action keys battery information, finding 41 connector, power 6 decrease screen brightness battery lock, identifying 13 conservation, power 42 battery power 41...
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fun things to do 2 Intel Wireless Display 25 minimized image internal microphone, identifying creating 69 8, 20 minimized image recovery 70 hard drive Internet connection setup 17 model description HP 3D DriveGuard 51 Internet security software, using label 14 hard drive light 5 mouse HDMI...
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media 70 Sleep USB 2.0 ports, identifying 7, 21 starting 70 exiting 37 USB 3.0 ports, identifying 5, 21 supported discs 66 initiating 37 USB cable, connecting 48 system 69 slots USB devices USB flash drive 70 Digital Media 5 connecting 47 using HP Recovery media 66 security cable 7...