HP Pavilion 17 F100 Notebook Pc Series Manual

							Using AMD Dual Graphics (select models only)
The AMD Dual Graphics feature allows the AMD accelerated processing unit (APU) and the discrete
AMD graphics card to work together. When AMD Dual Graphics is enabled, graphics performance
improves over the performance available using only one of the graphics devices. This improvement
applies to DirectX versions 10 or 11 (DX10 and DX11) applications operating in full-screen mode. In
windowed mode or when running non-DX10/11 applications, the system operates in a manner similar
to Hybrid Graphics.
For more information, see the AMD Dual Graphics software Help.
Hybrid Graphics and AMD Dual Graphics (select models only) 49 
						

							7 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.
Improving performance
Everyone wants a fast computer and you can drastically improve the performance of your computer
by performing regular maintenance tasks with tools such as Disk Defragmenter and Disk Cleanup.
Also, as your computer gets older, you might consider installing larger drives and adding more
memory.
Handling drives
Observe these precautions when handling drives:
●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.
●Before handling a drive, discharge static electricity by touching a grounded surface.
●Do not touch the connector pins on a removable drive or on the computer.
●Do not use excessive force when inserting a drive into a drive bay.
●If a drive must be mailed, place the drive in a bubble-pack mailer or other suitable protective
packaging and label the package “FRAGILE.”
●Avoid exposing a drive to magnetic fields. Security devices with magnetic fields include airport
walk-through devices and security wands. Airport conveyer belts and similar security devices
that check carry-on baggage use X-rays instead of magnetism and do not damage drives.
●Remove media from a drive before removing the drive from the drive bay, or traveling with,
shipping, or storing a drive.
●Do not type on the keyboard or move the computer while an optical drive is writing to a disc. The
write process is sensitive to vibration.
●Before you move a computer that is connected to an external hard drive, initiate Sleep and allow
the screen to clear, or properly disconnect the external hard drive.
Using HP 3D DriveGuard (select models only)
HP 3D DriveGuard protects a hard drive by parking the drive and halting data requests under either of
the following conditions:
●You drop the computer.
●You move the computer with the display closed while the computer is running on battery power.
50 Chapter 7   Maintaining your computer 
						

							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 (SSDs) lack moving parts, they do not require HP 3D DriveGuard
protection.
NOTE:A hard drive in a primary hard drive bay or a secondary hard drive bay is protected by HP
3D DriveGuard. A hard drive installed in an optional docking device or connected to a USB port is not
protected by HP 3D DriveGuard.
For more information, see the HP 3D DriveGuard software Help.
Identifying HP 3D DriveGuard status
The hard drive light on the computer changes color to show that the drive in a primary hard drive bay
and/or the drive in a secondary hard drive bay (select models only) is parked. To determine whether a
drive is currently protected or whether it is parked, view the icon on the Windows desktop in the
notification area, at the far right of the taskbar, or in the Mobility Center.
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.
NOTE:It is not necessary to run Disk Defragmenter on solid-state drives.
After you start Disk Defragmenter, it works without supervision. However, depending on the size of
your hard drive and the number of fragmented files, Disk Defragmenter may take more than an hour
to complete.
HP recommends defragmenting your hard drive at least once a month. You may set Disk
Defragmenter to run on a monthly schedule, but you can defragment your computer manually at any
time.
To run Disk Defragmenter:
1.Connect the computer to AC power.
2.From the Start screen, type defragment, and then select Defragment and optimize your drives.
3.Follow the on-screen instructions.
For additional information, access the Disk Defragmenter software Help.
Using Disk Cleanup
Disk Cleanup searches the hard drive for unnecessary files that you can safely delete to free up disk
space and help the computer run more efficiently.
To run Disk Cleanup:
1.From the Start screen, type free up disk space, and then select Free up disk space by
deleting unnecessary files.
2.Follow the on-screen instructions.
Improving performance 51 
						

							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. For example, older graphics components might not work well with the most
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
Use the following products to safely clean your computer:
●Dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride 0.3 percent maximum concentration (for example,
disposable wipes, which come in a variety of brands).
●Alcohol-free glass-cleaning fluid
●Water with mild soap solution
●Dry microfiber cleaning cloth or a chamois (static-free cloth without oil)
●Static-free cloth wipes
CAUTION:Avoid strong cleaning solvents that can permanently damage your computer. If you are
not sure that a cleaning product is safe for your computer, check the product contents to make sure
that ingredients such as alcohol, acetone, ammonium chloride, methylene chloride, and hydrocarbons
are not included in the product.
Fibrous materials, such as paper towels, can scratch the computer. Over time, dirt particles and
cleaning agents can get trapped in the scratches.
Cleaning procedures
Follow the procedures in this section to safely clean your computer.
WARNING!To prevent electric shock or damage to components, do not attempt to clean your
computer while it is turned on.
●Turn off the computer.
●Disconnect AC power.
●Disconnect all powered external devices.
CAUTION:To prevent damage to internal components, do not spray cleaning agents or liquids
directly on any computer surface. Liquids dripped on the surface can permanently damage internal
components.
Cleaning the display (All-in-Ones or Notebooks)
Gently wipe the display using a soft, lint-free cloth moistened with an alcohol-free glass cleaner. Be
sure that the display is dry before closing the display.
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							Cleaning the sides or cover
To clean the sides or cover, use a soft microfiber cloth or chamois moistened with one of the cleaning
solutions listed previously or use an acceptable disposable wipe.
NOTE:When cleaning the cover of the computer, use a circular motion to aid in removing dirt and
debris.
Cleaning the TouchPad, keyboard, or mouse
WARNING!To reduce the risk of electric shock or damage to internal components, do not use a
vacuum cleaner attachment to clean the keyboard. A vacuum cleaner can deposit household debris
on the keyboard surface.
CAUTION:To prevent damage to internal components, do not allow liquids to drip between the
keys.
●To clean the TouchPad, keyboard, or mouse, use a soft microfiber cloth or a chamois moistened
with one of the cleaning solutions listed previously or use an acceptable disposable wipe.
●To prevent keys from sticking and to remove dust, lint, and particles from the keyboard, use a
can of compressed air with a straw extension.
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.
◦Remove all discs and all external media cards, such as memory cards.
◦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.
CAUTION:Avoid exposing a drive to magnetic fields. Security devices with magnetic fields
include airport walk-through devices and security wands. Airport conveyer belts and similar
security devices that check carry-on baggage use X-rays instead of magnetism and do not
damage drives.
●If you plan to use the computer during a flight, listen for the in-flight announcement that tells you
when you are allowed to use your computer. In-flight computer use is at the discretion of the
airline.
●If you are shipping the computer or a drive, use suitable protective packaging and label the
package “FRAGILE.”
●If the computer has a wireless device installed, the use of these devices may be restricted in
some environments. Such restrictions may apply aboard aircraft, in hospitals, near explosives,
and in hazardous locations. If you are uncertain of the policy that applies to the use of a
particular device, ask for authorization to use your computer before you turn it on.
●If you are traveling internationally, follow these suggestions:
Traveling with or shipping your computer 53 
						

							◦Check the computer-related customs regulations for each country or region on your
itinerary.
◦Check the power cord and adapter requirements for each location in which you plan to use
the computer. Voltage, frequency, and plug configurations vary.
WARNING!To reduce the risk of electric shock, fire, or damage to the equipment, do not
attempt to power the computer with a voltage converter kit sold for appliances.
54 Chapter 7   Maintaining your computer 
						

							8 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.
IMPORTANT:Some security features listed in this chapter may not be available on your computer.
Computer risk Security feature
Unauthorized use of the computer Power-on password
Computer viruses Antivirus software
Unauthorized access to data Firewall software
Unauthorized access to Setup Utility (BIOS) settings and
other system identification informationAdministrator password
Ongoing or future threats to the computer Software updates
Unauthorized access to a Windows user account User password
Unauthorized removal of the computer Security cable lock
Using passwords
A password is a group of characters that you choose to secure your computer information and to
protect online transactions. Several types of passwords can be set. For example, when you set up
your computer for the first time, you were asked to create a user password to secure your computer.
Additional passwords can be set in Windows or in the HP Setup Utility (BIOS) that is preinstalled on
your computer.
You may find it helpful to use the same password for a Setup Utility (BIOS) feature and for a Windows
security feature.
Use the following tips for creating and saving passwords:
●To reduce the risk of being locked out of the computer, record each password and store it in a
secure place away from the computer. Do not store passwords in a file on the computer.
●When creating passwords, follow requirements set by the program.
●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 hp support assistant, and then select the HP Support Assistant app.
Using passwords 55 
						

							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
Administrator password
●Must be entered each time you access Setup Utility
(BIOS).
●If you forget your administrator password, you cannot
access Setup Utility (BIOS).
NOTE:The administrator password can be used in place of
the power-on password.
NOTE:Your administrator password is not interchangeable
with an administrator password set in Windows, nor is it
revealed as it is set, entered, changed, or deleted.
NOTE:If you enter the power-on password at the first
password check, you must enter the administrator password
to access Setup Utility (BIOS).
Power-on password
●Must be entered each time you turn on or restart the
computer.
●If you forget your power-on password, you cannot turn
on or restart the computer.
NOTE:The administrator password can be used in place of
the power-on password.
NOTE:A power-on password is not revealed as it is set,
entered, changed, or deleted.
To set, change, or delete an administrator or power-on password in Setup Utility (BIOS):
1.To start Setup Utility (BIOS), turn on or restart the computer, quickly press esc, and then press
f10.
2.Use the arrow keys to select Security, and then follow the on-screen instructions.
Your changes take effect when the computer restarts.
Using Internet security software
When you use your computer to access email, a network, or the Internet, you potentially expose your
computer to computer viruses, spyware, and other online threats. To help protect your computer,
Internet security software that includes antivirus and firewall features may be preinstalled on your
computer as a trial offer. To provide ongoing protection against newly discovered viruses and other
security risks, security software must be kept up to date. It is strongly recommended that you upgrade
56 Chapter 8   Securing your computer and information 
						

							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.
To provide ongoing protection against newly discovered viruses, antivirus software must be kept up to
date.
An antivirus program may be preinstalled on your computer. It is strongly recommended that you use
the antivirus program of your choice in order to fully protect your computer.
For more information about computer viruses, from the Start screen, type hp support assistant,
and then select the HP Support Assistant app.
Using firewall software
Firewalls are designed to prevent unauthorized access to a system or network. A firewall can be
software you install on your computer and/or network, or it can be a combination of both hardware
and software.
There are two types of firewalls to consider:
●Host-based firewalls—Software that protects only the computer it is installed on.
●Network-based firewalls—Installed between your DSL or cable modem and your home network
to protect all the computers on the network.
When a firewall is installed on a system, all data sent to and from the system is monitored and
compared with a set of user-defined security criteria. Any data that does not meet those criteria is
blocked.
Installing software updates
HP, Microsoft Windows, and third-party software installed on your computer should be regularly
updated to correct security problems and improve software performance. For more information, see
Updating programs and drivers on page 52.
Installing critical security updates
CAUTION: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.
You can choose whether updates are installed automatically. To change the settings, from the Start
screen, type c, and then select Control Panel. Select System and Security, select Windows Update,
select Change settings, and then follow the on-screen instructions.
Installing HP and third-party software updates
HP recommends that you regularly update the software and drivers that were originally installed on
your computer. To download the latest versions, go to 
http://www.hp.com/support. At this location,
you can also register to receive automatic update notifications when they become available.
Installing software updates 57 
						

							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.
Securing your wireless network
When you set up your wireless network, always enable security features. For more information, see
Protecting your WLAN on page 20.

Regularly back up your software applications and information to protect them from being permanently
lost or damaged through a virus attack or a software or hardware failure. For more information, see
Backing up, restoring, and recovering on page 62.
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.
The security cable slot on your computer may look slightly different from the illustration in this section.
For the location of the security cable slot on your computer, see 
Getting to know your computer
on page 5.
1.Loop the security cable lock around a secured object.
2.Insert the key (1) into the security cable lock (2).
3.Insert the security cable lock into the security cable slot on the computer (3), and then lock the
security cable lock with the key.
4.Remove the key and keep it in a safe place.
58 Chapter 8   Securing your computer and information