Appendix B Troubleshooting; Troubleshooting Approach; Common Problems - HP Compaq Presario,Presario 80XL302 Setup Manual

Appendix B
Troubleshooting
This appendix is designed to help you find and solve minor problems that you may encounter using the
notebook.

Troubleshooting Approach

The problems that you might encounter can be divided into two basic categories: hardware and software.
Hardware problems can be further divided into being of an electrical or a mechanical nature. You will know
you have a hardware problem if, for example, the screen is blank, the notebook cannot recognize the disk
drives, or you get an error message during the Power-On Self Test (POST).
Software problems can occur at several levels. Both your operating system and your software application
programs are capable of generating errors and error messages. If you encounter a software error, try to
determine if the error message is from your operating system or from an application program, and refer to
the appropriate manual for possible remedies.
If you still have a problem after trying all the suggested remedies in this appendix, contact your dealer.

Common Problems

When you encounter a problem, begin by performing a careful visual inspection. Check the exterior of the
notebook first. If no indicators are on, check the battery charge or electrical outlet, the plug and power cord,
and any power switches that may affect your notebook. If the notebook has been connected to any
peripheral devices, look for loose or disconnected cables.
A few common problems and suggested solutions are presented in the examples which follow.
Problem: The power button does not function.
The power button does not respond to a light touch. Press the button firmly.
If you are using battery power, the battery may be discharged. Connect the AC adapter.
Problem: The screen is blank.
Press the Spacebar to see if any power management feature has blanked the screen to save power.
If the AC Power Indicator is not on, check the electrical outlet, the plugs and power cords.
If you are using a battery pack, make sure it has a charge remaining, and that it is installed correctly.
Check the brightness and contrast controls for your display.
Reset the notebook by pressing the [Ctrl]+[Alt]+[Delete] keys.
Turn the notebook off, wait a few seconds, and then turn the notebook back on.
My Presario – Getting Started Appendix B-1