HP Pavilion g6-2300 User Manual

User guide - windows 8
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Summary of Contents for HP Pavilion g6-2300

  • Page 1 User Guide...
  • Page 2 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.
  • Page 3 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.
  • Page 4 Safety warning notice...
  • Page 5: Table Of Contents

    Table of contents 1 Starting right ..............................1 Best practices ............................1 Fun things to do ............................ 1 More HP resources ..........................2 2 Getting to know your computer ........................3 Finding your hardware and software information ................. 3 Locating hardware ....................... 3 Locating software ..........................
  • Page 6 4 Enjoying entertainment features ......................... 18 Using the webcam ..........................18 Using audio ............................18 Connecting speakers ......................18 Connecting headphones ....................18 Connecting a microphone ....................18 Checking the sound ......................19 Using video ............................19 Connecting an HDMI device ....................19 Configuring audio settings .................
  • Page 7 Conserving battery power ....................32 Identifying low battery levels ....................33 Resolving a low battery level ..................... 33 Resolving a low battery level when external power is available ......33 Resolving a low battery level when no power source is available ..... 33 Resolving a low battery level when the computer cannot exit Hibernation ..
  • Page 8 Setting Setup Utility (BIOS) passwords ................51 Using Internet security software ......................51 Using antivirus software ..................... 52 Using firewall software ....................... 52 Installing software updates ......................... 52 Installing Windows updates ....................52 Installing HP and third-party software updates ..............52 Securing your wireless network ......................
  • Page 9: Starting Right

    Starting right This computer is a powerful tool designed to enhance your work and entertainment. To get the most out of your computer, read this chapter to learn about best practices after setup, fun things to do with your computer, and where to go to get more 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:...
  • Page 10: More Hp Resources

    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.
  • Page 11: Getting To Know Your Computer

    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.
  • Page 12: Left Side

    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.
  • Page 13 Component Description External monitor port Connects an external VGA monitor or projector. 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.
  • Page 14: Display

    Display Component Description WLAN antennas (2)* Send and receive wireless signals to communicate with wireless local area networks (WLANs). Internal microphone (1) Records sound. HP TrueVision HD Webcam Records video, captures still photographs, and allows video conferences and online chat by means of streaming video. To use the webcam, from the Start screen type c, and then select CyberLink YouCam from the list of apps.
  • Page 15: Top

    TouchPad Component Description TouchPad on/off button Turns the TouchPad on or off. ● TouchPad light Amber: The TouchPad is off. ● Off: The TouchPad is on. TouchPad zone Moves the on-screen pointer and selects or activates items on the screen. Left TouchPad button Functions like the left button on an external mouse.
  • Page 16: Lights

    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.
  • Page 17: Buttons And Speakers

    Buttons and speakers Component Description ● Power button When the computer is off, press the button to turn on the computer. ● When the computer is on, press the button briefly to initiate Sleep. ● When the computer is in the Sleep state, press the button briefly to exit Sleep.
  • Page 18: Keys

    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 Displays the Windows Start screen. Action keys Execute frequently used system functions. Windows applications key Displays a shortcut menu for items beneath the cursor.
  • Page 19: Bottom

    Bottom Component Description Battery bay Holds the battery. Battery release latch Releases the battery from the battery bay. Vents (5) 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.
  • Page 20: Labels

    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: Component Product name Serial number Product number Warranty period...
  • Page 21: Connecting To A Network

    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.
  • Page 22: Using A Wlan

    To use operating system controls: From the Start screen, type n, and then select Settings. Type network and sharing in the search box, and then select Network and Sharing Center. For more information, from the Start screen, type h, and then select 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.
  • Page 23: Setting Up A Wlan

    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) ●...
  • Page 24: Connecting To A Wlan

    Connecting to a WLAN To connect to a WLAN, follow these steps: Be sure that the WLAN device is on. If the device is on, the wireless light is on (white). If the wireless light is amber, press the wireless button. From the Desktop, tap or click the network status icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar.
  • Page 25: Connecting To A Local Area Network (Lan)

    Connecting to a local area network (LAN) Use a LAN connection if you want to connect the computer directly to a router in your home (instead of working wirelessly), or if you want to connect to an existing network at your office. Connecting to a LAN requires an 8-pin, RJ-45 (network) cable.
  • Page 26: Enjoying Entertainment Features

    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.
  • Page 27: Checking The Sound

    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, click the Sounds tab. Under Program Events, select any sound event, such as a beep or alarm, and then click Test.
  • Page 28: Configuring Audio Settings

    To connect an HDMI device to your computer, you need an HDMI cable, sold separately. 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: ●...
  • Page 29: Managing Your Photo, Audio, And Video Files

    Managing your photo, audio, and video files CyberLink PowerDVD (select models only) helps you manage and edit your photo, audio, and video collections. ▲ To open CyberLink Power DVD from the computer Start screen, type c, and then select CyberLink PowerDVD from the list of applications. For more information about using CyberLink PowerDVD, see the PowerDVD software Help.
  • Page 30: Navigating Using Touch Gestures, Pointing Devices And The Keyboard

    Navigating using touch gestures, pointing devices and the keyboard Your computer allows navigation using touch gestures (select models only) 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.
  • Page 31: Tapping

    To view a demonstration of each gesture: From the Start screen, type c to display the Apps list. Select Control Panel, and then select Hardware and Sound. Select Synaptics TouchPad. Click a gesture to activate the demonstration. To turn a gesture off or on: From the Synaptics TouchPad screen, select the check box next to the gesture that you want to turn off or on.
  • Page 32: Pinching/Zooming

    Pinching/zooming Pinching and zooming allow you to zoom out or in on images or text. ● Zoom in by placing two fingers together on the TouchPad zone and then moving your fingers apart. ● Zoom out by placing two fingers apart on the TouchPad zone and then moving your fingers together.
  • Page 33: Right-Edge Swipe

    Right-edge swipe The right-edge swipe reveals the charms, which let you search, share, start apps, access devices, or change settings. ● Swipe your finger gently from the right edge to display the charms. 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.
  • Page 34: Left-Edge Swipe

    Left-edge swipe The left-edge swipe reveals your open apps so that you can switch to them quickly. ● Swipe your finger gently from the left edge of the TouchPad to switch between apps. 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.
  • Page 35: Using Microsoft Windows 8 Shortcut Keys

    CAUTION: Use extreme care when making changes in Setup Utility. Errors can prevent the computer from operating properly. Icon Description Opens Help and Support, which provides tutorials, information about the Windows operating system and your computer, answers to questions, and updates to your computer.
  • Page 36: Using The Hot Keys

    Shortcut Keys Shortcut Description Returns you to the Start screen from an open app or the Desktop. Pressing the key again returns you to the previous screen. Opens the charms. Opens the Desktop. Switches between open apps. NOTE: Continue to press this key combination until the app you want displays.
  • Page 37: Managing Power

    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.
  • Page 38: Initiating And Exiting Sleep

    Initiating and exiting Sleep With the computer on, you can initiate Sleep in any of the following ways: ● Close the display. ● From the Start screen, point to the upper-right or lower-right corner of the screen. When the charms list opens, click Settings, click the Power icon, and then click Sleep. To exit Sleep: ●...
  • Page 39: Using The Power Meter And Power Settings

    Click Require a password (recommended). NOTE: If you need to create a user account password or change your current user account password, click Create or change your user account password, and then follow the on- screen instructions. If you do not need to create or change a user account password, go to step Click Save changes.
  • Page 40: Removing A User-Replaceable Battery

    Removing a user-replaceable battery WARNING! To reduce potential safety issues, use only the user-replaceable battery provided with the computer, a replacement battery provided by HP, or a compatible battery purchased from HP. CAUTION: Removing a user-replaceable battery that is the sole power source for the computer can cause loss of information.
  • Page 41: Identifying Low Battery Levels

    ● Stop, disable, or remove any external media cards that you are not using. ● Before you leave your work, initiate Sleep or shut down the computer. Identifying low battery levels When a battery that is the sole power source for the computer reaches a low or critical battery level, the power meter icon on the Windows desktop shows a low or critical battery notification.
  • Page 42: Replacing A User-Replaceable Battery

    See the Regulatory, Safety and Environmental Notices for proper battery disposal. To access the user guides, select the HP Support Assistant app on the Start screen, select My computer, and then select the User guides. Replacing a user-replaceable battery Battery Check in Help and Support notifies you to replace the battery when an internal cell is not charging properly or when the battery storage capacity has reached a weak condition.
  • Page 43: Hp Coolsense (Select Models Only)

    To test the AC adapter: Shut down the computer. Remove the battery from the computer. Connect the AC adapter to the computer, and then plug it into an AC outlet. Turn on the computer. ● If the power lights turn on, the AC adapter is working properly. ●...
  • Page 44 Shut down the computer under any of the following conditions: ● When you need to replace the battery or access components inside the computer ● When you are connecting an external hardware device that does not connect to a USB or video port ●...
  • Page 45: Managing And Sharing Information

    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 or a solid state drive that stores your computer's software, operating system, and also provides storage for all of your personal files. For added capacity or functionality, connect an external drive (purchased separately), such as an optical drive or hard drive, or insert a digital storage card directly from your phone or camera.
  • Page 46: Removing A Usb Device

    ▲ 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 appears in the notification area, letting you know that the device is recognized by the computer.
  • Page 47: Sharing Data And Drives And Accessing Software

    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. A sound indicates that the device has been detected.
  • Page 48 To share folders or libraries on the same network: On the Desktop, open File Explorer. Click the Share tab on the Libraries window, and then click Specific people. Type a name in the File Sharing box, and then click Add. Click Share and then follow the on-screen instructions.
  • Page 49: Maintaining Your Computer

    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.
  • Page 50 CAUTION: To prevent information loss or an unresponsive system: Before removing or installing a drive, shut down the computer. If you are unsure whether the computer is off, in the Sleep state, or in Hibernation, turn the computer on, and then shut it down through the operating system.
  • Page 51: Using Hp 3D Driveguard (Select Models Only)

    Lift the hard drive (2) out of the hard drive bay. Disconnect the hard drive cable (1) from the hard drive. Remove the front bumper (2) and the back bumper (3) from the hard drive. Remove the 4 screws (4) from the hard drive and remove the bracket (5) from the hard drive. To install a hard drive, reverse this procedure.
  • Page 52: Improving Performance

    A short time after the end of one of these events, HP 3D DriveGuard returns the hard drive to normal operation. NOTE: Because solid-state drives (SSD) lack moving parts, HP 3D DriveGuard is unnecessary. NOTE: A hard drive in the primary hard drive bay is protected by HP 3D DriveGuard. Hard drives connected to USB ports are not covered by HP 3D DriveGuard.
  • Page 53: Adding Or Replacing Memory Modules

    Adding or replacing memory modules Adding memory can help improve your computer's performance. Your computer is like your physical work area. The hard drive is the filing cabinet where you store your work and the memory is the desk where you work. When your memory isn’t big enough to hold all your work easily, like a desk overflowing with work, your productivity slows down.
  • Page 54 Slide the service door forward slightly (2), lift the front right corner of the service door (3), and then maintain an angle while removing the service door (4). If you are replacing a memory module, remove the existing memory module: Pull away the retention clips (1) on each side of the memory module.
  • Page 55: Updating Programs And Drivers

    Insert a new memory module: CAUTION: To prevent damage to the memory module, hold the memory module by the edges only. Do not touch the components on the memory module. Align the notched edge (1) of the memory module with the tab in the memory module slot. With the memory module at a 45-degree angle from the surface of the memory module compartment, press the module into the memory module slot (2) until it is seated.
  • Page 56: Cleaning Your Computer

    recent gaming software. Without the latest driver, you would not be getting the most out of your equipment. Go to http://www.hp.com/support to download the latest versions of HP programs and drivers. In addition, register to receive automatic update notifications when they become available. Cleaning your computer Cleaning your computer and external devices helps keep them in good working condition.
  • Page 57 ◦ Turn off, and then disconnect all external devices. ◦ Shut down the computer. ● Take along a backup of your information. Keep the backup separate from the computer. ● When traveling by air, carry the computer as hand luggage; do not check it in with the rest of your luggage.
  • Page 58: Securing Your Computer And Information

    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.
  • Page 59: Setting Windows Passwords

    Setting Windows passwords Password Function User password Protects access to a Windows user account. Administrator password Protects administrator-level access to computer contents. NOTE: This password cannot be used to access Setup Utility (BIOS) contents. Setting Setup Utility (BIOS) passwords Password Function ●...
  • Page 60: Using Antivirus Software

    the security software trial offer or purchase the software of your choice in order to fully protect your computer. Using antivirus software Computer viruses can disable programs, utilities, or the operating system, or cause them to function abnormally. Antivirus software can detect most viruses, destroy them, and in most cases, repair any damage they have caused.
  • Page 61: Securing Your Wireless Network

    wwcontact_us.html. At this location, you can also register to receive automatic update notifications when they become available. If you have installed third-party software after you purchased your computer, regularly update the software. Software companies provide software updates to their products to correct security problems and improve functionality of the software.
  • Page 62: Using Setup Utility (Bios) And System Diagnostics

    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.
  • Page 63: Downloading A Bios Update

    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.
  • Page 64 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. Chapter 10 Using Setup Utility (BIOS) and System Diagnostics...
  • Page 65: 11 Backing Up, Restoring, And Recovering

    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.
  • Page 66: Creating Hp Recovery Media

    choose to reset the computer by reinstalling Windows or choose to recover using HP Recovery Manager. NOTE: File History is not enabled by default, so you must turn it on. For more information and steps for enabling Windows File History, see Windows Help and Support.
  • Page 67: Restore And Recovery

    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.
  • Page 68: Using Windows Refresh For Quick And Easy Recovery

    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.
  • Page 69: Recovering Using Hp Recovery Manager

    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.
  • Page 70: Using Hp Recovery Media To Recover

    Using HP Recovery media to recover You can use HP Recovery media to recover the original system. This method can be used if your system does not have an HP Recovery partition or if the hard drive is not working properly. If possible, back up all personal files.
  • Page 71: 12 Specifications

    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.
  • Page 72: 13 Electrostatic Discharge

    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.
  • Page 73: Index

    Index Bluetooth device 13, 16 AC adapter light, identifying 4 Bluetooth label 12 edge swipe gestures 24 AC adapter, testing 34 boot order right-edge swipe 25 action keys changing HP Recovery top-edge swipe 25 decrease screen brightness Manager 62 electrostatic discharge 64 buttons esc key, identifying 10 Help and Support 27...
  • Page 74 HP Recovery media serial number 12 original system recovery 61 creating 58 service 12 recovery 62 wireless certification 12 passwords HP Recovery partition 61 WLAN 12 Setup Utility (BIOS) 51 recovery 61 Windows 51 removing 62 connecting 17 pinching TouchPad gesture 24 hubs 37 latch, battery release 11 ports...
  • Page 75 reset Windows logo key, identifying 10 computer 59, 60 temperature 33 Windows passwords 51 steps 60 testing an AC adapter 34 Windows updates, installing 52 restore TouchPad Wireless Assistant software 13 Windows File History 59 buttons 7 wireless button 13 RJ-45 (network) jack, identifying TouchPad gestures 24, 25 wireless certification label 12...

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