Setting Up Dual Displays on One PC
Connecting a TV or second monitor to the computer
Identify the type of cables you need
Troubleshooting TV setup
Related support
This document applies to HP and Compaq Desktop PCs with TV compatible video connectors using Windows 98, Me, and XP.
This document explains how to connect and set up a television (TV) or a second monitor as a second display. It also contains troubleshooting information.
If you added a video card and are using the video connectors on the card, refer to the documentation that came with the video card before using this document.
NOTE:
Not all HP and Compaq PCs ship with a video connector. If your PC does not have a video connection, install a graphics card with a video connector or purchase special video signal processing equipment before using a TV as a monitor.
Connecting a TV or second monitor to the computer
To connect a second display to the computer and best configure the computer for your viewing environment, do the following procedures.
Place the monitor and television
Identify the type of cables you need
Connect the cables
Configure the display settings
Place the monitor and television
Place the monitor and television into their respective locations, depending on how you want to use the displays:
Environment
Placement
Classroom
Place the computer monitor on a desk facing in a manner that allows you to easily see both displays and the audience. Place the television where any member of the audience can easily view it.
Presentation
Work desktop
Place the computer monitor and television side by side. Allow a little more viewing distance between the two displays and the viewer's eyes.
Home computing desktop
Identify the type of cables you need
The type of video cable needed depends on your TV and monitor.
Select one TV cable and one monitor cable:
Video Out connector/cable
Use with
Connector color
Description
Video (composite)
TV
Yellow
The composite video signal combines white (luminance) and color (chrominance) video information onto a single line (wire). It's the most common video format of the National Television Systems Committee (NTSC).
S-video
TV
Black
The S-Video signal separates the white (luminance) and color (chrominance) signal components and transmits the components separately using multiple lines (wires). Seperate luminance and color signals provide a much higher vertical resolution than composite video devices. S-Video equipment was originally designed for high-end television production, but it is now available to the consumer market as well. S-Video is also known as Y/C video.
VGA
Monitor
Blue
(Video Graphics Array) Analog computer graphics standard that supports a maximum resolution of 640 x 480 pixels.
NOTE:
A TV's resolution is roughly half the quality of a monitor that is set at 640x480. Image quality can appear worse when higher resolutions are used because higher display resolutions bring out the lower resolution of standard TV. This is a limitation of the TV standard.
Verify that the second display and the graphics card have the same type of video connectors. A matching video connector type must be on the back of the TV and on the back of the computer before you can use these steps.
Figure 1: Video connectors
1 - Composite video/TV-Out
2 - S-Video Out
3 - Standard VGA monitor
For a TV, use either an S-Video or standard composite (also known as RCA cables) cable that matches the TV in connector. You can use an S-video-to-composite adapter when the video card only has an S-video connector.
If the television does not have a composite or s-video connection and only has a coaxial or antenna connector, then use an adapter that connects s-video/composite to the coaxial connector. These are readily available from most local electronics supply stores at minimal cost.
Coaxial video is another type of cabling or connection that typically carries a composite video signal. This connection is mainly used by local cable and satellite television companies to deliver their signals. Most graphics cards do not have a coaxial-style out connector because they send out their own TV signal.
For a monitor, use the VGA connector.
Connect the cables
Use the following steps to connect both displays to the computer:
Connect the TV or second monitor to the PC. Select the first available connection from the following list, depending on the television and computer in connections:
Connector
Installation
S-video
Connect an S-video cable to the s-video out connector on back of the computer and the s-video in connector on the back of the television.
Composite video
Connect a composite video cable to the composite video out connector on back of the computer and the composite video in connector on the back of the television.
Second monitor
If you are using a second monitor instead of of a TV, connect the additional monitor cable to the extra VGA or DVI out connector on back of the computer and the VGA or DVI in connector on the back of the monitor.
If you want to use the speakers on a TV for audio, use:
A Y-adapter cable that connects a minijack connector (the connector that plugs into the computer) to two RCA-style stereo connectors (the connectors on a stereo TV).
Or
Use the audio from the computer, if your current audio cables do not connect to the TV.
Turn on the TV or second monitor (not the PC, leave it off).
Change the input source setting to match the incoming signal connection (usually Line-1, Video-1 or S-video). Press the TV remote control input button, if using a TV.
NOTE:
This step is very important. If a TV is not on and changed to the proper video source, the video card will be unable to detect the TV.
Configure the display settings
To configure Windows for the extra display, use one of the following sections depending on how you are going to use the TV:
Classroom and presentation environments
or
Desktop environment (extended Windows XP desktop space)
Classroom and presentation environments
Use the following steps to show what is happening on the PC to an audience:
Turn on the computer. Wait until the Windows desktop opens before continuing.
The second display may show the computer screens as the computer starts, depending on the video card.
If the same image of the Windows desktop appears on both the second display and the monitor, move the mouse pointer to see if the cursor moves both inside the monitor and the second display.
If the mouse pointer cursor moves in both displays at the same time, you do not have to continue. The video card automatically uses a presentation environment when it detects the second display. However, you may still want to continue to adjust the video image and see if your video card is capable of reducing flickering, increasing sharpness, and other quality settings for a TV signal.
If the mouse pointer cursor only moves in one display, continue using these steps to setup up the presentation environment.
NOTE:
If the Windows desktop never appears on the monitor, disconnect the second display from the computer and reconnect it again after the computer is turned on and after Windows opens. If you have a TV, this has to be done on the monitor because a TV does not show enough detail, making it very difficult to finish the rest of these steps.
Right-click anywhere on an open area of the Windows desktop and select Properties.
Click the Settings tab.
NOTE:
If you are using a TV, at this time, you may change the display resolution for the computer as low as it can go to help the image quality on the TV. Icons and other items appear larger and can be seen much more easily on the TV if a lower resoution, like 640 by 480 pixels or 800 by 600 pixels, is used. Click Apply if you change the resolution setting.
Click the Advanced button.
This step greatly depends on the options that the video card provides. Click through the advanced video card display properties screens and look for a display feature that copies the image from the computer onto both displays.
The following table shows video cards that are common to HP and Compaq PCs, how to find dual display windows from Advanced Display properties, and how to use their display copying features:
Video Card
Procedure
ATI Radeon- TV
Do the following:
Click the Displays tab.
The monitors and TVs are shown. The upper-left corner of each display icon is a button and a status indicator. A red corner indicates an inactive display; a green corner indicates an active display. (YPbPr displays if component video is selected.)
To view the display on your monitor and TV simultaneously, click the upper-left corner of the TV icon. It becomes green. Both the monitor and the TV should have green corners.
nVidia GeForce 6XXX - Clone
Do the following:
Ensure nView Display Settings is selected in the left side list.
Select Clone from the nView Display Mode drop down menu.
Select the Primary and secondary displays from the drop down menu.
nVidia GeForce 4/FX - Clone
Do the following:
Click the tab that contains the name of the video card.
Select nView Display mode from the left side list.
Select Clone from the tab window.
NOTE:
You can make more adjustments at this point to try and increase the quality of picture on the TV.
After the appropriate selection is made, click Apply at the bottom of the window.
When the image appears on the TV screen, click Yes to keep the setting. You have 15 seconds to accept this new setting before it returns to the previous setting.
Click the OK button to save changes. Click OK again to close the window.
Both the monitor and the second display show the same image. You are done.
Figure 2: Example of ATI video card display window
Figure 3: Example of nVidia video card display window
Desktop environment (extended Windows XP desktop space)
Use the following steps to configure Windows so that it uses the TV as extra desktop space:
Turn on the computer.
The TV may show the computer screens as the computer starts, this depends on the video card. Wait until Windows open before continuing.
If Windows never appears on the monitor, disconnect the TV from the computer and reconnect it again after the computer is turned on and after Windows opens. You have to do it this way because a TV will not show the details of the monitor, making it very difficult to continue using these steps.
Right-click anywhere on an open area of the Windows desktop, select Properties, and then click the Settings tab.
The number one blue rectangle represents primary display and the number two blue rectangle represents the secondary display (usually the TV).
Click on the number one rectangle and adjust the Screen Resolution setting to 1024 by 768 pixels and set the color quality to Highest (32 bit).
Click OK.
If a Monitor Settings window appears after the screen properties change, click Yes.
Right-click anywhere on an open area of the desktop, select Properties, and then click the Settings tab.
Figure 4: Multiple displays as shown in Display Properties
Click the number two rectangle. If a Monitor # 2 message appears, click Yes to enable the television signal.
Select Extend my Windows desktop onto this monitor.
Adjust the Screen Resolution setting to 1024 by 768 pixels and set the color quality to Highest (32 bit), and then click OK.
Click and drag the blue rectangles that represent the displays and position them next to each other. Position them so that they visually represent how the display devices are sitting on the desk. For example, if the TV is sitting on a shelf directly over the monitor, you would click and drag the blue rectangle that represents the TV so that it is directly over the blue rectangle that represents the monitor.
Click OK. If a Monitor Settings window appears after the screen properties change, click Yes.
The extended desktop is configured and ready for use
Troubleshooting TV setup
Try the following items if you encounter problems when trying to connect a TV to the computer:
Certain display adapters need to have TV set as the primary display adapter before it can be recognized at all. If the PC is not "detecting" the TV as a display device when the computer is turned on, set TV as the primary display device in Windows and restart the PC.
Turn on the TV before turning on the computer.
TVs require their source setting changed to the video source that the video card is using. Select either Input 1, Input 2, or S-video by pressing the Source or Input Source button on the TV's remote control. This can vary depending on the type of TV you are using. If your TV does not have this capability, then you will not be able use it as a second monitor without using special video signal processing (not covered in this document). For more detailed instructions consult the manual for your TV.
Try setting the screen resolution to 800 x 600 or less from Display Properties on the PC.
Try using only one video source. Do not connect two cables to the TV or monitor at the same time.
A TV accepts either a PAL (Europe) or NTSC (North America) signal, depending on the country it was made for. Make sure that the signal format of the TV matches the signal output that the card produces (for on-board TV-output, this setting can be changed in the BIOS).
Monday, July 30, 2007
Windows XP: Network Cable is Unplugged Message, Red X on Network Icon
Windows XP: Network Cable is Unplugged Message, Red X on Network Icon
ISSUE:
Find out why a red X appears over the network icon in the system tray.
Figure 1: Red X over network icon
SOLUTION:
The red X over the network icon appears when the PC is disconnected from the network. Some of the reasons might be:
The PC is not currently connected to a network.
The network cable is not connected.
DSL or Cable modem is locked up and needs to have the power cord unplugged and then plugged back in after five seconds.
The network connection is actually disabled (re-enable by right-clicking the network connection icon and select Enable).
There is a problem with the network setup. Please refer to the following articles to troubleshoot the type of network connection you are using:
Wireless Networking
Resolving Cable, DSL, or Other Broadband Internet Connection Problems
Problems Connecting to the Internet; Dial-Up Modem Troubleshooting
If the PC is not connected to a network, you can remove the red X by disabling the connection.
Click Start, Settings, Control Panel, and then click Network Connections.
Right-click the network connection icon and select Disable.
To enable the connection as needed, perform the steps again and select Enable.
NOTE:
To make this process much easier in the future, drag and drop the connection icon from the Network Connections window onto your Windows desktop. Doing so, creates a desktop icon that you can right-click and enable/disable easily.
ISSUE:
Find out why a red X appears over the network icon in the system tray.
Figure 1: Red X over network icon
SOLUTION:
The red X over the network icon appears when the PC is disconnected from the network. Some of the reasons might be:
The PC is not currently connected to a network.
The network cable is not connected.
DSL or Cable modem is locked up and needs to have the power cord unplugged and then plugged back in after five seconds.
The network connection is actually disabled (re-enable by right-clicking the network connection icon and select Enable).
There is a problem with the network setup. Please refer to the following articles to troubleshoot the type of network connection you are using:
Wireless Networking
Resolving Cable, DSL, or Other Broadband Internet Connection Problems
Problems Connecting to the Internet; Dial-Up Modem Troubleshooting
If the PC is not connected to a network, you can remove the red X by disabling the connection.
Click Start, Settings, Control Panel, and then click Network Connections.
Right-click the network connection icon and select Disable.
To enable the connection as needed, perform the steps again and select Enable.
NOTE:
To make this process much easier in the future, drag and drop the connection icon from the Network Connections window onto your Windows desktop. Doing so, creates a desktop icon that you can right-click and enable/disable easily.
Using and Troubleshooting HP Image Zone and HP Image Zone Plus
Using and Troubleshooting HP Image Zone and HP Image Zone Plus
Using HP Image Zone Plus
My Images
Edit
Projects
HP Memories Disc
HP Instant Share
Backup and Restore
Using HP Image Zone Plus in Media Center
Frequently asked questions
This document pertains to HP Desktop and Notebook computers that came with Windows XP and HP Image Zone Plus software.
This document contains an overview of HP Image Zone Plus features and how to use them. It also provides answers to frequently asked questions. For more detailed assistance on using the program, refer to the detailed help information contained within the application.
HP Image Zone Plus is a collection of software tools that help you edit and manage your digital photographs. These tools are brought together in one easy-to-use software interface. Use this document to learn how to use and troubleshoot HP Image Zone Plus.
NOTE:
For information about the differences between Image Zone and Image Zone Plus versions, refer to Frequently Asked Questions . Your Image Zone version may not include some of the features described in this document.
Figure 1: The Main window of HP Image Zone Plus
Using HP Image Zone Plus
To start using HP Image Zone Plus, use one of the following methods:
Double-click the HP Image Zone Plus icon on the desktop.
Click Start, All Programs, Pictures (photos), and then HP Image Zone Plus.
Click Start, All Programs, HP, and then Photo and Imaging Gallery.
Click Start, All Programs, HP, and then HP Image Zone Plus. HP Image Zone Plus opens to a main window where you can access all of the tools and projects for your photographs. The sections below describe what each tab does and shows how to use it.
The My Images tab.
The Edit tab.
The Projects tab.
The HP Memories Disc tab.
The HP Instant Share tab.
The Backup and Restore tab.
The Pictures To Go tab.
My Images
My Images provides an interface for selecting and viewing digital photographs. Once the photographs are selected, they can be used in the other tools and projects of Image Zone Plus, such as Edit and HP Instant Share.
Select photographs by clicking the small open square below the photograph in the main window. Once selected, the small square becomes filled, the images are added to the “selection tray”, and and the photographs can be used in other sections of HP Image Zone Plus.
Search for photographs by clicking View Folders and browsing the folders on your hard drive. You can also search for photographs by clicking View All and browsing by date, keyword, or place. You can also select Folders under View/Search and then browse for your folder under Folders Menu.
For more information about how to assign keywords or places, or how to change the dates assigned to images, refer to the help included with the program:
Click Tell me more next to Keyword or Place for more information on each.
Click Help at the bottom of the window and then select Help Contents to find more information.
To change how the photographs are displayed, choose one of the following options:
Click one of the three square icons in the top-right corner of the main window. These icons, from left to right, are as follows: view many photographs (thumbnails), view one photograph, and view the selected items in a slide show.
Click the Display as drop-down arrow, and then select Thumbnails, Single Image, Full Screen, or Slide Show. Most of the work that you do in My Images will be done from the 'thumbnails' view. Adjust the size of the thumbnail images by using the slider tool in the upper right.
Click the gray triangle below the photograph for more actions, such as rotate left and right, copy, delete, assign or remove a keyword, and re-dating and renaming the image.
You can quickly rotate a photograph or view image information in thumbnail view by moving your pointer over the photograph and clicking one of the small squares that appears. Click one of the squares with a circular arrow to rotate clock-wise or counter-clockwise. Click the square with an " i" to view information about the photograph, such as height, width, resolution, assigned date, and location on your PC.
Figure 2: Thumbnail of photograph with rotation and information squares
Edit
Once you have selected your images from the My Images tab, click the Edit tab to start editing your digital photographs. Selected photographs display as "thumbnail" images in the selection tray at the bottom of the window. If you have several images in the selection tray, the last image added is the one that automatically opens in the editor window.
NOTE:
If you cannot see the images in My Selections, click Show in the lower-right corner of the window.
To make it easier for you to see what your working on, change the viewing size of the image by selecting a size from the drop-down list in the upper-right corner of the main window.
To enhance or change the appearance of a photograph use the editing tools. The editing tools are listed along the left side of the main window. To help you understand the tools and how to use them, read the following list:
Auto Enhance or Auto Adjust Image: Click this to automatically adjust contrast, lightening of dark areas, sharpness, and smoothness. If you do not like how Image Zone Plus alters your photograph, click the Undo button in the upper left.
Remove Red Eye: Click this to remove the red coloring from a subjects eyes in a flash photograph.
Use the following steps to eliminate red eye:
Click Remove Red Eye.
Click an eye in your photograph that needs the red removed.
An open rectangle appears over the eye.
Click and drag the edges and corners of the rectangle so that it surrounds the eye.
Click the Apply button or click the Auto Remove Red Eyes button to replace the red with dark gray.
If you are not satisfied with the results, click the Undo button, adjust the fill color slider to a lighter or darker position, and try again until you are satisfied.
Crop: Click this to remove the unwanted border areas surrounding your photograph.
Use the following steps to crop your photograph:
Click Crop from the left side of the main window.
Select a constrain selection to keep your photograph aligned to a standard size (wallets, 4 x 6, e-mail).
Click and drag your mouse pointer over your photograph to draw a rectangle over the area that you want you keep.
Once you have the area selected, click Apply.
If you are not satisfied with the results, click the Undo button and crop the photograph again.
Resize: Click this to make the image smaller or larger to best fit a standard photograph size.
Use the following steps to resize your photograph:
NOTE:
If you want to crop your photograph, use the crop feature before re-sizing your photograph.
Click Resize from the left side of the main window.
Select a standard resize type from the Resize for drop-down list or from the resize options listed in the Resize area.
If your photograph is only going to be viewed from the computer, type 72 in the Resolution field. Otherwise, keep it at 200 for printing purposes.
Click Apply to make the change.
Flip: Click this to produce a mirror (useful for iron-on T-shirt transfers) or upside-down image of your photograph.
Use the following steps to flip your photograph:
Click Rotate/Flip from the left side of the main window.
Click Flip Vertical or click the flip vertical icon to turn the photograph upside-down.
Click Flip Horizontal or click the flip horizontal icon if you want to make a mirror image of your photograph.
Click Reset or click Undo to undo any unwanted changes.
Rotate/Flip: Click this to rotate the image at any angle including 90 degrees.
Use the following steps to rotate your photograph:
Click Rotate/Flip from the left side of the main window.
Click one of the rotate squares from the left side of the main window to rotate the photograph 90 degrees clockwise or counter-clockwise.
Use the small angles slider to rotate your photograph using any angle.
Click Reset or click Undo to undo any unwanted changes.
Adjust Color: Click this to change how colors appear in your photograph.
Use the following steps to make color adjustments:
Click Adjust Color or click Color Toolkit from the left side of the main window.
Adjust the Hue slider or click anywhere on the Hue graphic to change all of the colors in your photograph across all colors of the spectrum. This can be used to change the color of a main object when a gray, white, or black background is present.
Adjust the saturation to make the photograph more colorful or more gray. Adjusting this slider all the way to the left produces a black and white photograph.
Click Reset or click Undo to undo any unwanted changes.
Adjust Brightness or Adjust Image Click this to change how light, dark, or contrasting your photograph is.
Use the following steps to make adjustments to brightness and contrast:
Click Adjust Brightness or Adjust Imagefrom the left side of the main window.
Adjust the brightness slider to make your photograph darker or lighter.
Adjust the contrast slider to increase or decrease the contrast of the photograph.
Adjust the sharpen edges slider to make the image appear sharper or softer. Adjust it to the left to make the photograph more soft.
Click Reset or click Undo to undo any unwanted changes.
Sharpen: Click this to adjust the hardness of items inside your photograph. This adjustment can make the photograph appear more 'sharp' or more 'soft'.
Use the following steps to adjust the sharpness:
Click Sharpenor click Adjust Image from the left side of the main window.
Adjust the sharpness or sharpen edges slider to the right to increase the sharpness of the image. Adjust it to the left to make the photograph more soft.
Click Reset or click Undo to undo any unwanted changes.
Once you are done editing a photograph, and you are happy with the results, click Save from the lower-left side of the main window to make your changes permanent.
Projects
Once you have selected several pictures, you can place those pictures into a project, like an album, card or flyer. Your selected photographs display as 'thumbnail' images in My Selections at the bottom of the window. Click an image that you want to edit from the My Selections menu and it appears for editing in the main screen.
NOTE:
If you cannot see the images in My Selections, click Show in the lower-right corner of the window. To make a project item, use these steps:
Click the Projects tab.
Select Panoramas, CD Labels, Calendars, Brochures, Album Pages, Cards, or Flyers.
Click your preferred paper type from the main window. Select the template you want.
Click and drag your pictures from the My Selections area at the bottom of the main window into the blank framed areas inside the project workspace. Release the mouse button to drop the image into the project.
Or
The pictures are automatically inserted into the selected template.
Double-click the title text and the text below the photographs and type in whatever you want to describe the project or item. You can change the color and font of the text from the left menu.
Once you have the project item looking like you want, you can print, save, or export to a file.
Figure 3: Project example
HP Memories Disc
Use HP Memories Disc to create a disc that displays your photographs on most Windows computers without any special software. The disc can also be used in DVD players that support recordable CDs and the VCD video format.
Click Start.
An HP Memories Disc Creator window appears.
Type a name or short sentence that describes the image in the field underneath each photograph. Click Next when you are done.
Type a title and a description for your memories disc and click Next.
Click the Audio CD tab and place a music CD into the CD drive. Select the tracks from the music CD that you want to play during the show. If you do not have a music CD, you can use the Computer and Sample Songs tab to select music. When you are finished selecting music, click Next.
Preview the slideshow by clicking the Play button (the square button with a black triangle) in the lower left of the preview window.
After you have viewed the slide show, click the Slide Show Settings tab and make any adjustments to each slides display time. Click Next.
Click the CD Writer Settings tab and make any adjustments that you want to the writing speed and the Video CD Display type (PAL (Europe) or NTSC (North America)).
Click Make Disc to create the memories disc.
After HP Image Zone Plus has finished creating the disc, click Next.
On this last screen you can view the slideshow, print a CD label, print a CD jacket insert, and print an index of the photographs. All of these small projects contain instructions.
Click Finish when you are done.
HP Instant Share
Use HP Image Share to allow others to view and print your photographs over the Internet. You can also use HP Instant Share to order prints and have them delivered directly to your home. Perform the following steps to use the HP Instant Share services:
Click Start HP Instant Share from the left side of the main window or click the HP Instant Sharetab at the top of the window.
Connect to the Internet and click Next.
Connecting to HP Instant Share Online Service displays while connecting to the service.
Perform the steps from one of the following Instant Share services:
Upload to HP Photo Web site
This feature makes it easier to upload images to the HP Photo Web Site. In order to use this feature, you need to have a free account on the HP Photo Web site. Click the Click Here link next to If you are not a member to create a new account. Once a new account has been created, you can begin using the Web site and this Upload feature.
Use the following steps to upload your selected picture to your Web page on the HP Photo Web site:
Select Upload to HP Photo Web site, and then click Next.
Type in your account name and password into their respective fields, and click Next.
Type a name that you want for your new album or just choose from a pre-existing album in the drop-down list, and then click Next.
Use the arrow buttons to move through your selected photographs and type a caption for each photograph into the provided field.
Click Next when finished, and wait while the photographs are uploaded.
When finished, you can click Show me the album with the new photos added to view your photographs from the HP Photo Web site in your browser.
Click Finish in the HP Instant Share window when you are done.
Order Prints - Snapfish:
NOTE:
The Snapfish service may not be available in all countries/regions.
Use Snapfish to send prints via mail to an address for a small fee. This can be very useful if you do not have a printer attached to your computer or you just want to save time and effort.
Use the following steps to order prints of your selected pictures from Snapfish:
Select Order Prints - Snapfish or Order Prints and then click Next.
Wait until the selected pictures are uploaded to HP Instant Share, and then click Click here to continue with your order.
A form appears in your Web browser with the number of prints, the size of the print, any important processing information you need to know, and a space for you to type in a message that will be printed on the back. All of this information is available for each selected photograph.
Fill out the form and click the blue Next button on the right.
A form appears with all the information you need to have the pictures shipped to an address.
Fill out the form and click the blue Next button on the right.
A form for billing appears. On the form are fields for a confirmation e-mail, secure credit card information, and a billing address.
Fill out the form and click the blue Next button on the right.
A Review order page appears.
Review and confirm your order. You can close your Web browser when you are done ordering.
Click Finish in the HP Instant Share page.
HP Instant Share e-mail:
This service uploads your photographs to a secure Web page and sends e-mail messages containing a link to that page. The recipient can click the link or on a thumbnail image in the e-mail to go to the Web page and view the full photographs.
Use the following steps to send an HP Instant Share e-mail:
Select HP Instant Share E-mail or the Send Email icon and then click Next.
Fill out the e-mail form. Use at least one valid e-mail address in the To field.
Click Next when you have completed the e-mail form and wait for the processing to complete.
Click Finish.
Figure 4: Example of an HP instant share e-mail
Backup and Restore
Use the backup and restore feature to protect your photographs and videos by saving them to CD. Use the following sections to backup your digital photographs to disc or to recover deleted or edited images:
Backup
Use Backup to Disc or Backup to archive your digital photograph collection. To do this, place a recordable disc into your CD-RW drive, click Backup to Disc or Backup, and follow the instructions in the main window.
If you have a printer, you can also print out CD Labels and disc case inserts for your backup discs.
Recover
Similar to a negative in traditional photography, you can recover deleted or edited photographs to their original condition.
To recover deleted images, click Restore Deleted Image from the Backup and Restore tab and follow the instructions in the main window.
To restore original images, use the following steps:
From the My Images tab, select the image(s) you want to recover.
Click the Backup and Restore tab.
Click Restore Original Image from the left side of the window.
Read the instructions on the page and click Next to start restoring you digital photographs.
Pictures To Go
This feature allows you to take your pictures with you by saving them to devices such as a HP IPAQ, memory cards, or any networked computer. Use dates and keywords from HP Image Zone to quickly choose the photos you want.
Setting up a synchronization with an IPAQ
To set up synchronization with an IPAQ:
From the My Images tab, select the image(s) you want to recover.
Click the Pictures To Go tab.
Click Synchronize with IPAQ from the left side of the window.
Select the IPAQ in the Synchronization settings area.
Click Edit.
Set the memory limits for the digital pictures on the IPAQ by clicking the up or down buttons for the number of pictures or amount of memory.
Choose a picture selection criteria, such as Most recent, Keyword, or Albums. Leave the Keep current checkbox checked if you want your digital pictures to be automatically updated when your IPAQ is connected to your PC.
Click Save Settings. When you return to the Synchronize with IPAQ window, you can click Sync to synchronize immediately based on the settings you just saved.
Sending pictures to a device
To send pictures to a device:
Click the Pictures To Go tab.
Click Send pictures to device from the left side of the window.
From the drop-down list at the top of the window, choose the device that you want to send pictures to. The list displays only devices that are connected to your PC and are writeable.
Set the maximum amount of memory (disk space) your want to use for digital pictures on the device by clicking the up or down buttons for the number of pictures or the amount of memory.
NOTE:
Filling an IPAQ too full may cause problems with some IPAQ systems.
From Picture size, select a size from the drop-down list.
Choose a picture selection criteria, such as Most recent, Keyword, or Albums.
Click Send pictures. Click OK when the send is complete.
Free Up Hard Drive Space
This feature removes original images to save hard drive space. Make sure that you backup your original images to disc before using this feature. To delete your original photographs, click Delete Original Images from the Backup and Restore tab and follow the instructions in the main window.
Using HP Image Zone Plus in Media Center
This section pertains to the HP Media Center PC using Microsoft Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005.
HP Image Zone Plus is a a software program located in your All Programs menu that works together with the HP Image Zone Plus area in Media Center. Both programs work together to organize, search for, and display your digital images. It is designed to organize your photos, scanned images, and video clips by date, keyword, or place. For more information about using HP Image Zone Plus, click the Help link in the control area of the program window.
Some tasks you must do in the HP Image Zone Plus program on your desktop with your mouse and keyboard, and some tasks you can do from within Media Center with your remote control. For example, you must add your pictures to the HP Image Zone Plus program on the desktop before you can access them in the HP Image Zone Plus area in Media Center.
NOTE:
For specific details on using the HP Image Zone Plus program, click the Help link in the control area of the program window.
Organizing Pictures
The HP Image Zone Plus program and Media Center work together. Before you can view and search for your pictures in Media Center, you have to set some things up in HP Image Zone Plus program.
To start organizing your pictures in HP Image Zone Plus:
Create your image catalog. This indexes all of your pictures so you can assign dates, keywords, and places to your files.
Assign dates, keywords and places to your pictures.
You can edit your images from this window too.
When you have finished organizing your images, open Media Center to view, play a slide show, and search for your photos by the labels you have established.
For more information about changing picture dates, assigning keywords and locations, and performing searches of your pictures, go to the help files inside the HP Image Zone Plus program.
Creating your picture catalog
The first time you open the HP Image Zone Plus program, a message appears asking you if you want to create a catalog by indexing images in the My Pictures folder and its subfolders. This catalog allows you to search for your pictures by date, keyword, or place by using HP Image Zone Plus.
NOTE:
You can click Go to My Pictures at the top of HP Image Zone Plus window to open the My Pictures folder in Windows Explorer.
Using the mouse, double-click the HP Image Zone Plus icon on your desktop.
Or
Click Start on the taskbar, choose All Programs, HP, and then click HP Image Zone Plus. The HP Image Zone Plus window opens.
When the catalog message appears, click OK to index the PC images and place them in the HP Image Zone Plus catalog.
At the top of the gallery window, click the My Images tab, and then click the Select Allcheck box below it to see all of the images in the catalog. You can also select a drive under the Folders Menu to browse for images.
Click Help at the bottom of the window for more information about creating your picture catalog in HP Image Zone Plus.
Creating albums
You can organize your pictures into albums by using the HP Image Zone Plus program. After you create your picture albums in HP Image Zone Plus, you can then view them in Media Center.
NOTE:
After you create your picture albums in the HP Image Zone Plus program, you can then view them in Media Center.
To create an album:
Using your mouse, double-click the HP Image Zone Plus icon on the desktop.
Click the My Images tab.
Select the pictures that you want to place into an album.
Click Albums under View/Search.
Click Albums, and then select New Album.
To change the title of the album, just select it and type in a title using your keyboard. You can now view your albums in Media Center.
Modifying a date assigned to your pictures
Digital cameras and scanners assign a creation date to digital images. HP Image Zone Plus automatically recognizes this creation date and organizes your pictures by date.
To change a date:
Using your mouse, double-click the HP Image Zone Plus icon on the desktop.
Click the My Images tab, and then click the All by Date under View/Search.
Select a picture to assign a new date.
Select a date, and then click Set.
Assigning a keyword to your pictures
To assign a keyword to your pictures:
Using your mouse, double-click the HP Image Zone Plus icon on the desktop.
Click the My Images tab, and then click the All by Keyword under View/Search.
Select your picture by clicking it. You can select more than one picture, if desired.
Click My Selections Menu, at the bottom of the window, choose Keywords, and then click Assign to All (New Keyword).
Select a keyword from the available keywords list, and then use the arrow button to add the keyword to the Assign to all box. Click Assign, and then click OK.
Or
Click New, type in a keyword, and then click OK. The new keyword is added to the keyword list. Use the arrow button to add the keyword to the Assign to all box.
NOTE:
You can assign more than one keyword. You can also edit or delete assigned keywords.
Assigning a place to your pictures
To assign a place to your pictures:
Using your mouse, double-click the HP Image Zone Plus icon on the desktop.
Click the My Images tab, and then click the All by Place under View/Search.
Select your picture by clicking it. You can select more than one picture, if desired.
Click the map to find your location. Each time you click the map, it zooms in closer. Use the arrow buttons surrounding the map to move around on the map. When your location is in the center of the cross symbol, click Assign.
Click OK.
Click Close.
NOTE:
There are multiple ways to move around the HP Image Zone Plus map: you can click and drag or point and click the small globe.
Searching for pictures
You can search for pictures by date, keyword, and place by using your remote control or mouse in Media Center. HP Image Zone Plus automatically organizes your pictures by date, based on the date assigned by the camera when the picture was taken or the date the picture was scanned.
NOTE:
You must open the HP Image Zone Plus program from the desktop to assign dates, keywords, and places to your pictures.
Press the Media Center Start button on the remote control.
Select HP Image Zone.
Select Search.
Select By date. Use the number keypad on the remote to enter the start and end date range. The date range of the pictures you selected is displayed in this window.
Or
Select By keyword. Select a keyword, and then press OK on the remote control.
Or
Select By place. Use the arrow buttons on the remote control to rotate the globe and numbers 1 through 5 to zoom in or out. When you have picked a location, press OK. Locations that have pictures assigned to them will have a colored dot on the map.
Viewing a slide show
When viewing images, you can view a slide show of all your images, individual albums, or pictures selected from a search.
Press the Media Center Start button on the remote control.
Select HP Image Zone.
Select the pictures you want to view as a slide show, and then press OK. If you do not select the pictures you want to view as a slide show, Media Center displays all pictures.
Select Play slide show, and then press OK on the remote control.
Use the media playback keys on the remote control or the controls that appear at the top of the window to control the playback of your slide show.
Viewing a slide show with music
Select My Music on the Media Center Start menu.
Select the music you want, and then press OK on the remote control. If the music does not start automatically, press the Play button on the remote control.
To go back to the Media Center Start menu, press Start on the remote control.
Select HP Image Zone.
Select the pictures, and then press OK on the remote control.
Select Play slide show, and then press OK. When Media Center switches to full-screen mode, the inset window disappears but the music continues to play.
Updating edited picture files in Media Center
After you make edits to your picture files, you need to update the files before they can be displayed correctly in Media Center. To update the files:
Press the Media Center Start button on the remote control.
Select HP Image Zone.
Select Settings.
Under Thumbnail options, select Refresh, and then select OK.
Select View all images. Your edited pictures should now be displayed.
Using supported picture file types
HP Image Zone Plus supports the following types of image files, video files, and audio files.
Supported File Types
File Extension
File Type
.jpg, .jpeg
Joint Photographic Expert Group
.tif, .tiff
Tagged Image File Format
.gif
Graphics Interchange Format
.bmp
Bitmap
.fpx
FlashPix Bitmap
.pcx
Bitmap Graphics (PC Paintbrush
.pdf
Portable Document Format
.png
Portable Network Graphic
Only supported image file types are displayed in My Pictures. Unsupported files are skipped in a slide show.
Corrupted and unsupported image file types display a generic image icon but cannot be displayed in Media Center.
Some file types are supported only if appropriate filters and software are installed.
NOTE:
If the message Image cannot be displayed appears, the file may be corrupted, or it may be an unsupported file type. You may need to edit your image with a photo editor and save it in a supported file format.
Printing Pictures in Media Center
Press the Media Center Start button on the remote control.
Select HP Image Zone.
Select the picture group you want to print from.
Select Print images.
Select the picture you want to print.
Select Print. Follow any onscreen instructions.
You need to set up your printer before you can print from Media Center.
NOTE:
You cannot use the Print button on the remote control in HP Image Zone Plus.
Frequently asked questions
Question: After I installed the HP Image Zone software (or just Memories Disc), I get Hal.dll, Boot.ini, or missing file errors when I start my computer.
Answer: To resolve this issue, use the HP support document Download and Install this Critical Update for the HP Memories Disc Creator Application .
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Question: Dual-Layer DVD discs I create cannot be used. Why?
Answer: If the PC enters standby while dual-layer DVDs are being created, the data will be corrupted, even though HP Image Zone indicates a successful update. HP has developed a software update to address this issue:
Go to www.hp.com (in English).
If needed, select your language from the language selection field in the top right corner of the page.
Enter sp26482 into the search field.
On the search results page, click the link that matches the latest date and version of the file.
Follow the instructions on the download page to download and install the update.
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Question: What are the differences between HP Image Zone and Image Zone Plus?
Answer: Beginning in January 2004, the version of Image Zone shipping on desktop computers and notebooks was renamed to HP Image Zone Plus. This was done to show that there are more features available than on previous versions of HP Image Zone (like the versions that comes with select HP printers, cameras, scanners and all-in-one devices). Some of the additional features are keyword and place organization, and more Backup and Restore options.
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Question: The version number in Help & About shows version 3.1. The version number in Add/Remove Programs shows 3.5. Which version number is correct?
Answer: Version 3.5 or higher is correct. The information in Help & About is an error and was not updated when the version number changed.
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Question: I have two listings in the start menu: HP Image Zone and HP Image Zone Plus. I also see a desktop icon titled HP Image Zone Plus. Do I have two separate versions of the same product installed on the computer?
Answer: No. All three items start HP Image Zone Plus.
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Question: There are two items in Add/Remove Programs for HP Image Zone 3.5 and HP Image Zone Plus 3.5. Is this correct? Do I really have two installations of the same version installed?
Answer: The listing in Add/Remove Programs is correct. HP Image Zone 3.5 is the core software program. HP Image Zone Plus 3.5 represents the additional features for the "plus" version. If you uninstall HP Image Zone Plus 3.5, Search by Keyword, Search by Place, and Backup & Restore features are removed from HP Image Zone.
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Question: When I try to open HP Image Zone Plus I get a prompt for Creative Projects CD.
Answer: This happens after installing a version of Image Zone from certain HP OfficeJet or PSC products. Insert the driver disc that came with the HP OfficeJet or PSC product. After files are copied from the disc, you will no longer be asked for the Creative Projects CD.
Question: When I try to open HP Image Zone Plus I get errors about missing HPIZ Fix2.MSI files.
Answer: This is happening because HP Image Zone Plus is being opened inside an account that it was not originally installed under. To resolve this issue download the HP Image Zone Plus software update from the HP Software Download Web Page .
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Question: If I have another, older HP device, such as a printer, will it work with Image Zone?
Answer:Yes, HP Devices are designed to work with each other. In fact, using multiple HP devices creates a solution that is “better together.”
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Question: I have a digital camera made by a company other than HP. When I connect the camera to the computer using a USB cable, the Microsoft Camera and Scanner Transfer wizard automatically launches. However, when I remove the media card from the camera and insert it into the PC’s card reader, I get a dialog box with several choices for what I want to do with the images. Why is this?
Answer: Windows XP uses a default behavior when a camera or memory card is connected to the computer. When a camera is connected, Windows XP recognizes the camera as a camera (not as a mass storage device) and automatically launches the file transfer wizard. However, since card readers are classified as a mass storage device, Windows XP gives the user a choice as to what action to take. Some cameras, including some by HP, have a setting that changes the camera classification from camera to mass storage so that Windows XP views the camera like a memory card.
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Question: I have a non-HP digital camera and would like to make sure that the Image Zone photo transfer wizard is used every time I connect. How can I do this?
Answer: The camera must have a setting that classifies it as a mass storage device (see above question). Refer to the documentation that came with your camera to see if this option exists and how to use it. Once your camera is set as a mass storage device, connect it to the computer via USB. After the XP transfer dialog box opens, select Transfer Images using HP Image Transfer Software, and Always to the selected action, and click OK.
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Question: How do I transfer images from my digital camera or memory card reader?
Answer: Click Transfer images: From camera/card from the left side of the window on the My Images tab, and follow the instructions on the windows that appear.
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Question: How is the HP Image Transfer wizard different from the one Microsoft provides?
Answer: The HP Image Transfer wizard includes two unique capabilities. One, the wizard notifies you when the date on a transferred image is more than 60 days old. Having the proper image date is important when using the timeline feature and it helps you know when that date on your camera is incorrect. The second capability is only important if you use an HP camera that can tag photographs for an E-mail send. Tagged photographs are processed when you use the HP Acquisition Wizard.
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Question: What kinds of print options do I have in HP Image Zone Plus?
Answer: You can make a variety of prints. Here are your options:
Current image: Standard size or full page print of the image in the Work area.
Quick print: Standard size or full page prints of the images in the Selection Tray; multiple copies can be fitted on one page.
Photo print: Make multiple copies of different sizes from images in the Selection Tray. Multiple prints can be fitted on one larger page.
Index print: Prints a proof sheet from the thumbnail images in the Work area.
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Question: What is the automatic digital negative creation (restore original image) feature?
Answer: HP Image Zone Plus automatically creates a copy of your original images and saves them as "digital negatives" in a separate, locked location of your hard drive. Images remain in this location in case you need to restore a photograph to its original condition with the "restore to original image" feature.
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Question: Can I delete the negatives to save space on my hard drive?
Answer: You can only delete negatives of photos that you have deleted from within the gallery. In order to do this, click delete original images from the Backup and Restore tab.
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Question: Sometimes when I restore an image from a “digital negative”, I do not see it restored in the gallery. What do I do?
Answer: The photograph is restored, however, the image icon in the gallery is not updated. To see your image in the gallery, click the Edit tab and then click back to View All, or close and re-open HP Image Zone Plus. The image should now appear in the gallery.
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Question: Can I make Image Zone launch when I click on My Pictures from the start menu?
Answer: Yes. From the Preferences area in HP Image Zone, click on the Startup Options tab. Then select the Open HP Image Zone Plus radio button.
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Question: Can I make photographs that are not in the My Pictures folder appear in the View All section of My Images?
Answer: If you would like to add additional folders that contain photographs to the My Images view, do the following:
In HP Image Zone Plus, click the Preferences button in the upper right.
On the My Images tab, click the Browse button in the All Images view section.
Browse and select the folders that you want by clicking in the squares next to the folder.
Click OK, and then OK to finish.
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Question: When downloading images using the HP Picture Acquisition wizard, an album is automatically created. Can I delete these albums?
Answer: Yes, although deleting the album also deletes the photographs from your hard drive. You can also move your photos to an existing folder on your hard disk drive and then delete the album.
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Question: What is the automatic image backup feature?
Answer: A reminder that helps you remember to back up your photographs to a CD or CD-RW. The frequency of the reminder message can be adjusted from within Preferences on the backup tab.
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Question: I am having an issue that this document does not talk about. Where can I get more help with my particular issue?
Answer: For lots of troubleshooting documents, use the help system that's built into the HP Image Zone software. Open HP Image Zone Plus and click Help and select Help Contents from the lower left corner of the screen. When the HP Photo and Imaging Help window appears, click the Plus sign ( +) next to troubleshooting and support.
Using HP Image Zone Plus
My Images
Edit
Projects
HP Memories Disc
HP Instant Share
Backup and Restore
Using HP Image Zone Plus in Media Center
Frequently asked questions
This document pertains to HP Desktop and Notebook computers that came with Windows XP and HP Image Zone Plus software.
This document contains an overview of HP Image Zone Plus features and how to use them. It also provides answers to frequently asked questions. For more detailed assistance on using the program, refer to the detailed help information contained within the application.
HP Image Zone Plus is a collection of software tools that help you edit and manage your digital photographs. These tools are brought together in one easy-to-use software interface. Use this document to learn how to use and troubleshoot HP Image Zone Plus.
NOTE:
For information about the differences between Image Zone and Image Zone Plus versions, refer to Frequently Asked Questions . Your Image Zone version may not include some of the features described in this document.
Figure 1: The Main window of HP Image Zone Plus
Using HP Image Zone Plus
To start using HP Image Zone Plus, use one of the following methods:
Double-click the HP Image Zone Plus icon on the desktop.
Click Start, All Programs, Pictures (photos), and then HP Image Zone Plus.
Click Start, All Programs, HP, and then Photo and Imaging Gallery.
Click Start, All Programs, HP, and then HP Image Zone Plus. HP Image Zone Plus opens to a main window where you can access all of the tools and projects for your photographs. The sections below describe what each tab does and shows how to use it.
The My Images tab.
The Edit tab.
The Projects tab.
The HP Memories Disc tab.
The HP Instant Share tab.
The Backup and Restore tab.
The Pictures To Go tab.
My Images
My Images provides an interface for selecting and viewing digital photographs. Once the photographs are selected, they can be used in the other tools and projects of Image Zone Plus, such as Edit and HP Instant Share.
Select photographs by clicking the small open square below the photograph in the main window. Once selected, the small square becomes filled, the images are added to the “selection tray”, and and the photographs can be used in other sections of HP Image Zone Plus.
Search for photographs by clicking View Folders and browsing the folders on your hard drive. You can also search for photographs by clicking View All and browsing by date, keyword, or place. You can also select Folders under View/Search and then browse for your folder under Folders Menu.
For more information about how to assign keywords or places, or how to change the dates assigned to images, refer to the help included with the program:
Click Tell me more next to Keyword or Place for more information on each.
Click Help at the bottom of the window and then select Help Contents to find more information.
To change how the photographs are displayed, choose one of the following options:
Click one of the three square icons in the top-right corner of the main window. These icons, from left to right, are as follows: view many photographs (thumbnails), view one photograph, and view the selected items in a slide show.
Click the Display as drop-down arrow, and then select Thumbnails, Single Image, Full Screen, or Slide Show. Most of the work that you do in My Images will be done from the 'thumbnails' view. Adjust the size of the thumbnail images by using the slider tool in the upper right.
Click the gray triangle below the photograph for more actions, such as rotate left and right, copy, delete, assign or remove a keyword, and re-dating and renaming the image.
You can quickly rotate a photograph or view image information in thumbnail view by moving your pointer over the photograph and clicking one of the small squares that appears. Click one of the squares with a circular arrow to rotate clock-wise or counter-clockwise. Click the square with an " i" to view information about the photograph, such as height, width, resolution, assigned date, and location on your PC.
Figure 2: Thumbnail of photograph with rotation and information squares
Edit
Once you have selected your images from the My Images tab, click the Edit tab to start editing your digital photographs. Selected photographs display as "thumbnail" images in the selection tray at the bottom of the window. If you have several images in the selection tray, the last image added is the one that automatically opens in the editor window.
NOTE:
If you cannot see the images in My Selections, click Show in the lower-right corner of the window.
To make it easier for you to see what your working on, change the viewing size of the image by selecting a size from the drop-down list in the upper-right corner of the main window.
To enhance or change the appearance of a photograph use the editing tools. The editing tools are listed along the left side of the main window. To help you understand the tools and how to use them, read the following list:
Auto Enhance or Auto Adjust Image: Click this to automatically adjust contrast, lightening of dark areas, sharpness, and smoothness. If you do not like how Image Zone Plus alters your photograph, click the Undo button in the upper left.
Remove Red Eye: Click this to remove the red coloring from a subjects eyes in a flash photograph.
Use the following steps to eliminate red eye:
Click Remove Red Eye.
Click an eye in your photograph that needs the red removed.
An open rectangle appears over the eye.
Click and drag the edges and corners of the rectangle so that it surrounds the eye.
Click the Apply button or click the Auto Remove Red Eyes button to replace the red with dark gray.
If you are not satisfied with the results, click the Undo button, adjust the fill color slider to a lighter or darker position, and try again until you are satisfied.
Crop: Click this to remove the unwanted border areas surrounding your photograph.
Use the following steps to crop your photograph:
Click Crop from the left side of the main window.
Select a constrain selection to keep your photograph aligned to a standard size (wallets, 4 x 6, e-mail).
Click and drag your mouse pointer over your photograph to draw a rectangle over the area that you want you keep.
Once you have the area selected, click Apply.
If you are not satisfied with the results, click the Undo button and crop the photograph again.
Resize: Click this to make the image smaller or larger to best fit a standard photograph size.
Use the following steps to resize your photograph:
NOTE:
If you want to crop your photograph, use the crop feature before re-sizing your photograph.
Click Resize from the left side of the main window.
Select a standard resize type from the Resize for drop-down list or from the resize options listed in the Resize area.
If your photograph is only going to be viewed from the computer, type 72 in the Resolution field. Otherwise, keep it at 200 for printing purposes.
Click Apply to make the change.
Flip: Click this to produce a mirror (useful for iron-on T-shirt transfers) or upside-down image of your photograph.
Use the following steps to flip your photograph:
Click Rotate/Flip from the left side of the main window.
Click Flip Vertical or click the flip vertical icon to turn the photograph upside-down.
Click Flip Horizontal or click the flip horizontal icon if you want to make a mirror image of your photograph.
Click Reset or click Undo to undo any unwanted changes.
Rotate/Flip: Click this to rotate the image at any angle including 90 degrees.
Use the following steps to rotate your photograph:
Click Rotate/Flip from the left side of the main window.
Click one of the rotate squares from the left side of the main window to rotate the photograph 90 degrees clockwise or counter-clockwise.
Use the small angles slider to rotate your photograph using any angle.
Click Reset or click Undo to undo any unwanted changes.
Adjust Color: Click this to change how colors appear in your photograph.
Use the following steps to make color adjustments:
Click Adjust Color or click Color Toolkit from the left side of the main window.
Adjust the Hue slider or click anywhere on the Hue graphic to change all of the colors in your photograph across all colors of the spectrum. This can be used to change the color of a main object when a gray, white, or black background is present.
Adjust the saturation to make the photograph more colorful or more gray. Adjusting this slider all the way to the left produces a black and white photograph.
Click Reset or click Undo to undo any unwanted changes.
Adjust Brightness or Adjust Image Click this to change how light, dark, or contrasting your photograph is.
Use the following steps to make adjustments to brightness and contrast:
Click Adjust Brightness or Adjust Imagefrom the left side of the main window.
Adjust the brightness slider to make your photograph darker or lighter.
Adjust the contrast slider to increase or decrease the contrast of the photograph.
Adjust the sharpen edges slider to make the image appear sharper or softer. Adjust it to the left to make the photograph more soft.
Click Reset or click Undo to undo any unwanted changes.
Sharpen: Click this to adjust the hardness of items inside your photograph. This adjustment can make the photograph appear more 'sharp' or more 'soft'.
Use the following steps to adjust the sharpness:
Click Sharpenor click Adjust Image from the left side of the main window.
Adjust the sharpness or sharpen edges slider to the right to increase the sharpness of the image. Adjust it to the left to make the photograph more soft.
Click Reset or click Undo to undo any unwanted changes.
Once you are done editing a photograph, and you are happy with the results, click Save from the lower-left side of the main window to make your changes permanent.
Projects
Once you have selected several pictures, you can place those pictures into a project, like an album, card or flyer. Your selected photographs display as 'thumbnail' images in My Selections at the bottom of the window. Click an image that you want to edit from the My Selections menu and it appears for editing in the main screen.
NOTE:
If you cannot see the images in My Selections, click Show in the lower-right corner of the window. To make a project item, use these steps:
Click the Projects tab.
Select Panoramas, CD Labels, Calendars, Brochures, Album Pages, Cards, or Flyers.
Click your preferred paper type from the main window. Select the template you want.
Click and drag your pictures from the My Selections area at the bottom of the main window into the blank framed areas inside the project workspace. Release the mouse button to drop the image into the project.
Or
The pictures are automatically inserted into the selected template.
Double-click the title text and the text below the photographs and type in whatever you want to describe the project or item. You can change the color and font of the text from the left menu.
Once you have the project item looking like you want, you can print, save, or export to a file.
Figure 3: Project example
HP Memories Disc
Use HP Memories Disc to create a disc that displays your photographs on most Windows computers without any special software. The disc can also be used in DVD players that support recordable CDs and the VCD video format.
Click Start.
An HP Memories Disc Creator window appears.
Type a name or short sentence that describes the image in the field underneath each photograph. Click Next when you are done.
Type a title and a description for your memories disc and click Next.
Click the Audio CD tab and place a music CD into the CD drive. Select the tracks from the music CD that you want to play during the show. If you do not have a music CD, you can use the Computer and Sample Songs tab to select music. When you are finished selecting music, click Next.
Preview the slideshow by clicking the Play button (the square button with a black triangle) in the lower left of the preview window.
After you have viewed the slide show, click the Slide Show Settings tab and make any adjustments to each slides display time. Click Next.
Click the CD Writer Settings tab and make any adjustments that you want to the writing speed and the Video CD Display type (PAL (Europe) or NTSC (North America)).
Click Make Disc to create the memories disc.
After HP Image Zone Plus has finished creating the disc, click Next.
On this last screen you can view the slideshow, print a CD label, print a CD jacket insert, and print an index of the photographs. All of these small projects contain instructions.
Click Finish when you are done.
HP Instant Share
Use HP Image Share to allow others to view and print your photographs over the Internet. You can also use HP Instant Share to order prints and have them delivered directly to your home. Perform the following steps to use the HP Instant Share services:
Click Start HP Instant Share from the left side of the main window or click the HP Instant Sharetab at the top of the window.
Connect to the Internet and click Next.
Connecting to HP Instant Share Online Service displays while connecting to the service.
Perform the steps from one of the following Instant Share services:
Upload to HP Photo Web site
This feature makes it easier to upload images to the HP Photo Web Site. In order to use this feature, you need to have a free account on the HP Photo Web site. Click the Click Here link next to If you are not a member to create a new account. Once a new account has been created, you can begin using the Web site and this Upload feature.
Use the following steps to upload your selected picture to your Web page on the HP Photo Web site:
Select Upload to HP Photo Web site, and then click Next.
Type in your account name and password into their respective fields, and click Next.
Type a name that you want for your new album or just choose from a pre-existing album in the drop-down list, and then click Next.
Use the arrow buttons to move through your selected photographs and type a caption for each photograph into the provided field.
Click Next when finished, and wait while the photographs are uploaded.
When finished, you can click Show me the album with the new photos added to view your photographs from the HP Photo Web site in your browser.
Click Finish in the HP Instant Share window when you are done.
Order Prints - Snapfish:
NOTE:
The Snapfish service may not be available in all countries/regions.
Use Snapfish to send prints via mail to an address for a small fee. This can be very useful if you do not have a printer attached to your computer or you just want to save time and effort.
Use the following steps to order prints of your selected pictures from Snapfish:
Select Order Prints - Snapfish or Order Prints and then click Next.
Wait until the selected pictures are uploaded to HP Instant Share, and then click Click here to continue with your order.
A form appears in your Web browser with the number of prints, the size of the print, any important processing information you need to know, and a space for you to type in a message that will be printed on the back. All of this information is available for each selected photograph.
Fill out the form and click the blue Next button on the right.
A form appears with all the information you need to have the pictures shipped to an address.
Fill out the form and click the blue Next button on the right.
A form for billing appears. On the form are fields for a confirmation e-mail, secure credit card information, and a billing address.
Fill out the form and click the blue Next button on the right.
A Review order page appears.
Review and confirm your order. You can close your Web browser when you are done ordering.
Click Finish in the HP Instant Share page.
HP Instant Share e-mail:
This service uploads your photographs to a secure Web page and sends e-mail messages containing a link to that page. The recipient can click the link or on a thumbnail image in the e-mail to go to the Web page and view the full photographs.
Use the following steps to send an HP Instant Share e-mail:
Select HP Instant Share E-mail or the Send Email icon and then click Next.
Fill out the e-mail form. Use at least one valid e-mail address in the To field.
Click Next when you have completed the e-mail form and wait for the processing to complete.
Click Finish.
Figure 4: Example of an HP instant share e-mail
Backup and Restore
Use the backup and restore feature to protect your photographs and videos by saving them to CD. Use the following sections to backup your digital photographs to disc or to recover deleted or edited images:
Backup
Use Backup to Disc or Backup to archive your digital photograph collection. To do this, place a recordable disc into your CD-RW drive, click Backup to Disc or Backup, and follow the instructions in the main window.
If you have a printer, you can also print out CD Labels and disc case inserts for your backup discs.
Recover
Similar to a negative in traditional photography, you can recover deleted or edited photographs to their original condition.
To recover deleted images, click Restore Deleted Image from the Backup and Restore tab and follow the instructions in the main window.
To restore original images, use the following steps:
From the My Images tab, select the image(s) you want to recover.
Click the Backup and Restore tab.
Click Restore Original Image from the left side of the window.
Read the instructions on the page and click Next to start restoring you digital photographs.
Pictures To Go
This feature allows you to take your pictures with you by saving them to devices such as a HP IPAQ, memory cards, or any networked computer. Use dates and keywords from HP Image Zone to quickly choose the photos you want.
Setting up a synchronization with an IPAQ
To set up synchronization with an IPAQ:
From the My Images tab, select the image(s) you want to recover.
Click the Pictures To Go tab.
Click Synchronize with IPAQ from the left side of the window.
Select the IPAQ in the Synchronization settings area.
Click Edit.
Set the memory limits for the digital pictures on the IPAQ by clicking the up or down buttons for the number of pictures or amount of memory.
Choose a picture selection criteria, such as Most recent, Keyword, or Albums. Leave the Keep current checkbox checked if you want your digital pictures to be automatically updated when your IPAQ is connected to your PC.
Click Save Settings. When you return to the Synchronize with IPAQ window, you can click Sync to synchronize immediately based on the settings you just saved.
Sending pictures to a device
To send pictures to a device:
Click the Pictures To Go tab.
Click Send pictures to device from the left side of the window.
From the drop-down list at the top of the window, choose the device that you want to send pictures to. The list displays only devices that are connected to your PC and are writeable.
Set the maximum amount of memory (disk space) your want to use for digital pictures on the device by clicking the up or down buttons for the number of pictures or the amount of memory.
NOTE:
Filling an IPAQ too full may cause problems with some IPAQ systems.
From Picture size, select a size from the drop-down list.
Choose a picture selection criteria, such as Most recent, Keyword, or Albums.
Click Send pictures. Click OK when the send is complete.
Free Up Hard Drive Space
This feature removes original images to save hard drive space. Make sure that you backup your original images to disc before using this feature. To delete your original photographs, click Delete Original Images from the Backup and Restore tab and follow the instructions in the main window.
Using HP Image Zone Plus in Media Center
This section pertains to the HP Media Center PC using Microsoft Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005.
HP Image Zone Plus is a a software program located in your All Programs menu that works together with the HP Image Zone Plus area in Media Center. Both programs work together to organize, search for, and display your digital images. It is designed to organize your photos, scanned images, and video clips by date, keyword, or place. For more information about using HP Image Zone Plus, click the Help link in the control area of the program window.
Some tasks you must do in the HP Image Zone Plus program on your desktop with your mouse and keyboard, and some tasks you can do from within Media Center with your remote control. For example, you must add your pictures to the HP Image Zone Plus program on the desktop before you can access them in the HP Image Zone Plus area in Media Center.
NOTE:
For specific details on using the HP Image Zone Plus program, click the Help link in the control area of the program window.
Organizing Pictures
The HP Image Zone Plus program and Media Center work together. Before you can view and search for your pictures in Media Center, you have to set some things up in HP Image Zone Plus program.
To start organizing your pictures in HP Image Zone Plus:
Create your image catalog. This indexes all of your pictures so you can assign dates, keywords, and places to your files.
Assign dates, keywords and places to your pictures.
You can edit your images from this window too.
When you have finished organizing your images, open Media Center to view, play a slide show, and search for your photos by the labels you have established.
For more information about changing picture dates, assigning keywords and locations, and performing searches of your pictures, go to the help files inside the HP Image Zone Plus program.
Creating your picture catalog
The first time you open the HP Image Zone Plus program, a message appears asking you if you want to create a catalog by indexing images in the My Pictures folder and its subfolders. This catalog allows you to search for your pictures by date, keyword, or place by using HP Image Zone Plus.
NOTE:
You can click Go to My Pictures at the top of HP Image Zone Plus window to open the My Pictures folder in Windows Explorer.
Using the mouse, double-click the HP Image Zone Plus icon on your desktop.
Or
Click Start on the taskbar, choose All Programs, HP, and then click HP Image Zone Plus. The HP Image Zone Plus window opens.
When the catalog message appears, click OK to index the PC images and place them in the HP Image Zone Plus catalog.
At the top of the gallery window, click the My Images tab, and then click the Select Allcheck box below it to see all of the images in the catalog. You can also select a drive under the Folders Menu to browse for images.
Click Help at the bottom of the window for more information about creating your picture catalog in HP Image Zone Plus.
Creating albums
You can organize your pictures into albums by using the HP Image Zone Plus program. After you create your picture albums in HP Image Zone Plus, you can then view them in Media Center.
NOTE:
After you create your picture albums in the HP Image Zone Plus program, you can then view them in Media Center.
To create an album:
Using your mouse, double-click the HP Image Zone Plus icon on the desktop.
Click the My Images tab.
Select the pictures that you want to place into an album.
Click Albums under View/Search.
Click Albums, and then select New Album.
To change the title of the album, just select it and type in a title using your keyboard. You can now view your albums in Media Center.
Modifying a date assigned to your pictures
Digital cameras and scanners assign a creation date to digital images. HP Image Zone Plus automatically recognizes this creation date and organizes your pictures by date.
To change a date:
Using your mouse, double-click the HP Image Zone Plus icon on the desktop.
Click the My Images tab, and then click the All by Date under View/Search.
Select a picture to assign a new date.
Select a date, and then click Set.
Assigning a keyword to your pictures
To assign a keyword to your pictures:
Using your mouse, double-click the HP Image Zone Plus icon on the desktop.
Click the My Images tab, and then click the All by Keyword under View/Search.
Select your picture by clicking it. You can select more than one picture, if desired.
Click My Selections Menu, at the bottom of the window, choose Keywords, and then click Assign to All (New Keyword).
Select a keyword from the available keywords list, and then use the arrow button to add the keyword to the Assign to all box. Click Assign, and then click OK.
Or
Click New, type in a keyword, and then click OK. The new keyword is added to the keyword list. Use the arrow button to add the keyword to the Assign to all box.
NOTE:
You can assign more than one keyword. You can also edit or delete assigned keywords.
Assigning a place to your pictures
To assign a place to your pictures:
Using your mouse, double-click the HP Image Zone Plus icon on the desktop.
Click the My Images tab, and then click the All by Place under View/Search.
Select your picture by clicking it. You can select more than one picture, if desired.
Click the map to find your location. Each time you click the map, it zooms in closer. Use the arrow buttons surrounding the map to move around on the map. When your location is in the center of the cross symbol, click Assign.
Click OK.
Click Close.
NOTE:
There are multiple ways to move around the HP Image Zone Plus map: you can click and drag or point and click the small globe.
Searching for pictures
You can search for pictures by date, keyword, and place by using your remote control or mouse in Media Center. HP Image Zone Plus automatically organizes your pictures by date, based on the date assigned by the camera when the picture was taken or the date the picture was scanned.
NOTE:
You must open the HP Image Zone Plus program from the desktop to assign dates, keywords, and places to your pictures.
Press the Media Center Start button on the remote control.
Select HP Image Zone.
Select Search.
Select By date. Use the number keypad on the remote to enter the start and end date range. The date range of the pictures you selected is displayed in this window.
Or
Select By keyword. Select a keyword, and then press OK on the remote control.
Or
Select By place. Use the arrow buttons on the remote control to rotate the globe and numbers 1 through 5 to zoom in or out. When you have picked a location, press OK. Locations that have pictures assigned to them will have a colored dot on the map.
Viewing a slide show
When viewing images, you can view a slide show of all your images, individual albums, or pictures selected from a search.
Press the Media Center Start button on the remote control.
Select HP Image Zone.
Select the pictures you want to view as a slide show, and then press OK. If you do not select the pictures you want to view as a slide show, Media Center displays all pictures.
Select Play slide show, and then press OK on the remote control.
Use the media playback keys on the remote control or the controls that appear at the top of the window to control the playback of your slide show.
Viewing a slide show with music
Select My Music on the Media Center Start menu.
Select the music you want, and then press OK on the remote control. If the music does not start automatically, press the Play button on the remote control.
To go back to the Media Center Start menu, press Start on the remote control.
Select HP Image Zone.
Select the pictures, and then press OK on the remote control.
Select Play slide show, and then press OK. When Media Center switches to full-screen mode, the inset window disappears but the music continues to play.
Updating edited picture files in Media Center
After you make edits to your picture files, you need to update the files before they can be displayed correctly in Media Center. To update the files:
Press the Media Center Start button on the remote control.
Select HP Image Zone.
Select Settings.
Under Thumbnail options, select Refresh, and then select OK.
Select View all images. Your edited pictures should now be displayed.
Using supported picture file types
HP Image Zone Plus supports the following types of image files, video files, and audio files.
Supported File Types
File Extension
File Type
.jpg, .jpeg
Joint Photographic Expert Group
.tif, .tiff
Tagged Image File Format
.gif
Graphics Interchange Format
.bmp
Bitmap
.fpx
FlashPix Bitmap
.pcx
Bitmap Graphics (PC Paintbrush
Portable Document Format
.png
Portable Network Graphic
Only supported image file types are displayed in My Pictures. Unsupported files are skipped in a slide show.
Corrupted and unsupported image file types display a generic image icon but cannot be displayed in Media Center.
Some file types are supported only if appropriate filters and software are installed.
NOTE:
If the message Image cannot be displayed appears, the file may be corrupted, or it may be an unsupported file type. You may need to edit your image with a photo editor and save it in a supported file format.
Printing Pictures in Media Center
Press the Media Center Start button on the remote control.
Select HP Image Zone.
Select the picture group you want to print from.
Select Print images.
Select the picture you want to print.
Select Print. Follow any onscreen instructions.
You need to set up your printer before you can print from Media Center.
NOTE:
You cannot use the Print button on the remote control in HP Image Zone Plus.
Frequently asked questions
Question: After I installed the HP Image Zone software (or just Memories Disc), I get Hal.dll, Boot.ini, or missing file errors when I start my computer.
Answer: To resolve this issue, use the HP support document Download and Install this Critical Update for the HP Memories Disc Creator Application .
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Question: Dual-Layer DVD discs I create cannot be used. Why?
Answer: If the PC enters standby while dual-layer DVDs are being created, the data will be corrupted, even though HP Image Zone indicates a successful update. HP has developed a software update to address this issue:
Go to www.hp.com (in English).
If needed, select your language from the language selection field in the top right corner of the page.
Enter sp26482 into the search field.
On the search results page, click the link that matches the latest date and version of the file.
Follow the instructions on the download page to download and install the update.
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Question: What are the differences between HP Image Zone and Image Zone Plus?
Answer: Beginning in January 2004, the version of Image Zone shipping on desktop computers and notebooks was renamed to HP Image Zone Plus. This was done to show that there are more features available than on previous versions of HP Image Zone (like the versions that comes with select HP printers, cameras, scanners and all-in-one devices). Some of the additional features are keyword and place organization, and more Backup and Restore options.
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Question: The version number in Help & About shows version 3.1. The version number in Add/Remove Programs shows 3.5. Which version number is correct?
Answer: Version 3.5 or higher is correct. The information in Help & About is an error and was not updated when the version number changed.
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Question: I have two listings in the start menu: HP Image Zone and HP Image Zone Plus. I also see a desktop icon titled HP Image Zone Plus. Do I have two separate versions of the same product installed on the computer?
Answer: No. All three items start HP Image Zone Plus.
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Question: There are two items in Add/Remove Programs for HP Image Zone 3.5 and HP Image Zone Plus 3.5. Is this correct? Do I really have two installations of the same version installed?
Answer: The listing in Add/Remove Programs is correct. HP Image Zone 3.5 is the core software program. HP Image Zone Plus 3.5 represents the additional features for the "plus" version. If you uninstall HP Image Zone Plus 3.5, Search by Keyword, Search by Place, and Backup & Restore features are removed from HP Image Zone.
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Question: When I try to open HP Image Zone Plus I get a prompt for Creative Projects CD.
Answer: This happens after installing a version of Image Zone from certain HP OfficeJet or PSC products. Insert the driver disc that came with the HP OfficeJet or PSC product. After files are copied from the disc, you will no longer be asked for the Creative Projects CD.
Question: When I try to open HP Image Zone Plus I get errors about missing HPIZ Fix2.MSI files.
Answer: This is happening because HP Image Zone Plus is being opened inside an account that it was not originally installed under. To resolve this issue download the HP Image Zone Plus software update from the HP Software Download Web Page .
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Question: If I have another, older HP device, such as a printer, will it work with Image Zone?
Answer:Yes, HP Devices are designed to work with each other. In fact, using multiple HP devices creates a solution that is “better together.”
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Question: I have a digital camera made by a company other than HP. When I connect the camera to the computer using a USB cable, the Microsoft Camera and Scanner Transfer wizard automatically launches. However, when I remove the media card from the camera and insert it into the PC’s card reader, I get a dialog box with several choices for what I want to do with the images. Why is this?
Answer: Windows XP uses a default behavior when a camera or memory card is connected to the computer. When a camera is connected, Windows XP recognizes the camera as a camera (not as a mass storage device) and automatically launches the file transfer wizard. However, since card readers are classified as a mass storage device, Windows XP gives the user a choice as to what action to take. Some cameras, including some by HP, have a setting that changes the camera classification from camera to mass storage so that Windows XP views the camera like a memory card.
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Question: I have a non-HP digital camera and would like to make sure that the Image Zone photo transfer wizard is used every time I connect. How can I do this?
Answer: The camera must have a setting that classifies it as a mass storage device (see above question). Refer to the documentation that came with your camera to see if this option exists and how to use it. Once your camera is set as a mass storage device, connect it to the computer via USB. After the XP transfer dialog box opens, select Transfer Images using HP Image Transfer Software, and Always to the selected action, and click OK.
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Question: How do I transfer images from my digital camera or memory card reader?
Answer: Click Transfer images: From camera/card from the left side of the window on the My Images tab, and follow the instructions on the windows that appear.
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Question: How is the HP Image Transfer wizard different from the one Microsoft provides?
Answer: The HP Image Transfer wizard includes two unique capabilities. One, the wizard notifies you when the date on a transferred image is more than 60 days old. Having the proper image date is important when using the timeline feature and it helps you know when that date on your camera is incorrect. The second capability is only important if you use an HP camera that can tag photographs for an E-mail send. Tagged photographs are processed when you use the HP Acquisition Wizard.
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Question: What kinds of print options do I have in HP Image Zone Plus?
Answer: You can make a variety of prints. Here are your options:
Current image: Standard size or full page print of the image in the Work area.
Quick print: Standard size or full page prints of the images in the Selection Tray; multiple copies can be fitted on one page.
Photo print: Make multiple copies of different sizes from images in the Selection Tray. Multiple prints can be fitted on one larger page.
Index print: Prints a proof sheet from the thumbnail images in the Work area.
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Question: What is the automatic digital negative creation (restore original image) feature?
Answer: HP Image Zone Plus automatically creates a copy of your original images and saves them as "digital negatives" in a separate, locked location of your hard drive. Images remain in this location in case you need to restore a photograph to its original condition with the "restore to original image" feature.
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Question: Can I delete the negatives to save space on my hard drive?
Answer: You can only delete negatives of photos that you have deleted from within the gallery. In order to do this, click delete original images from the Backup and Restore tab.
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Question: Sometimes when I restore an image from a “digital negative”, I do not see it restored in the gallery. What do I do?
Answer: The photograph is restored, however, the image icon in the gallery is not updated. To see your image in the gallery, click the Edit tab and then click back to View All, or close and re-open HP Image Zone Plus. The image should now appear in the gallery.
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Question: Can I make Image Zone launch when I click on My Pictures from the start menu?
Answer: Yes. From the Preferences area in HP Image Zone, click on the Startup Options tab. Then select the Open HP Image Zone Plus radio button.
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Question: Can I make photographs that are not in the My Pictures folder appear in the View All section of My Images?
Answer: If you would like to add additional folders that contain photographs to the My Images view, do the following:
In HP Image Zone Plus, click the Preferences button in the upper right.
On the My Images tab, click the Browse button in the All Images view section.
Browse and select the folders that you want by clicking in the squares next to the folder.
Click OK, and then OK to finish.
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Question: When downloading images using the HP Picture Acquisition wizard, an album is automatically created. Can I delete these albums?
Answer: Yes, although deleting the album also deletes the photographs from your hard drive. You can also move your photos to an existing folder on your hard disk drive and then delete the album.
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Question: What is the automatic image backup feature?
Answer: A reminder that helps you remember to back up your photographs to a CD or CD-RW. The frequency of the reminder message can be adjusted from within Preferences on the backup tab.
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Question: I am having an issue that this document does not talk about. Where can I get more help with my particular issue?
Answer: For lots of troubleshooting documents, use the help system that's built into the HP Image Zone software. Open HP Image Zone Plus and click Help and select Help Contents from the lower left corner of the screen. When the HP Photo and Imaging Help window appears, click the Plus sign ( +) next to troubleshooting and support.
Creating Disc Labels with LightScribe
Creating Disc Labels with LightScribe
Frequently Asked Questions
Tips & Tricks
Installing or restoring LightScribe software on a notebook PC
This document pertains to HP and Compaq PC with a LightScribe-enabled DVD drive.
LightScribe is a direct disc-labeling technology that provides a simple way to create precise silkscreen-quality labels for discs. All you have to do is burn, flip the disc, and then burn again.
NOTE:
If you are experiencing media or software detection problems with a LightScribe drive in your notebook PC, go to www.hp.com/go/techcenter/lightscribe (in English) and download updated LightScribe software.If you are experiencing media or software detection problems with a LightScribe drive in your HP Pavilion, Presario, or Media Center desktop PC download the latest LightScribe System Software Update (in English).
Creating a label uses the LightScribe-enabled DVD drive of your computer with enhanced disc-labeling software, and specially coated CD or DVD discs (sold separately).
A LightScribe-enabled DVD drive uses an optical laser to burn an image into the thin dye coating on the label side of a LightScribe disc. The LightScribe labeling system has no ink to smear, no paper to curl, and no sticky adhesive to cause problems.
LightScribe discs are identified by the LightScribe logo on the retail packaging and on the inner area of the disc itself.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my PC has a LightScribe drive?
If the drive door has the LightScribe name or logo on it, your drive is LightScribe capable. If the logo or name is missing, your drive is not LightScribe capable.
Some LightScribe-enabled slimline drives do not have enough space for a LightScribe logo or name on the drive tray cover, but a LightScribe logo sticker (see above) should be affixed to all LightScribe enabled notebook PCs. In addition, the presence of the disc encoder sensor indicates that a slimline drive is LightScribe enabled.
-
Can I upgrade my current non-LightScribe DVD drive to work with LightScribe media?
You cannot upgrade your current optical drive to be LightScribe capable.
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How do I get LightScribe to appear in the Disc Label menu?
If LightScribe is not an option in Disc Label menu of Sonic Express Labeler or iTunes, the LightScribe software is not properly installed.
For notebook PCs, go to www.hp.com/go/techcenter/lightscribe (in English) and download updated LightScribe software.
For Pavilion, Presario, and Media Center desktop PCs, download the latest LightScribe System Software Update (in English)
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What do I need for LightScribe labeling?
Creating a LightScribe label requires the following four things:
A LightScribe enabled drive.
LightScribe system software. This is pre-installed on your LightScribe-enabled desktop or notebook.
Labeling software - this is software to create your label content and to send the label image to the LightScribe drive for burning. Examples include Sonic Express and Intervideo DiscLabel that are shipped with some systems.
LightScribe media - CDs and DVDs with a coating designed to respond to the laser from LightScribe-enabled drives.
-
How long does it take to burn a LightScribe label?
The time required varies according to the image mode (Draft, Normal, and Best) and the surface area setting (narrow band with curved text, medium band with curved text, or the full disc surface). Using Draft or Normal imaging modes provides a shorter burn time, but also results in a lighter label. In most cases, the less area you use, the less time it takes to finish burning the label.
When beginning the burning of the label, the LightScribe software provides the estimated amount of time it will take to complete the label. A progress bar shows the remaining time during the burning process.
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Where are LightScribe discs sold?
Lightscribe media can be purchased from many online shopping sites and from local computer and office supplies stores. To purchase Lightscribe Media from HP, please refer to HP's How to buy site.
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Are LightScribe compatible Dual layer high capacity DVDs available?
Although most LightScribe enabled drives can read and write data to Dual Layer (DL) DVDs, there are no LightScribe enabled DL DVDs available at the time of this writing.
-
Can LightScribe burn a color label?
Currently, LightScribe technology creates a grayscale image, similar to a black-and-white photograph.
-
Can I use my PC for other things while I am burning a LightScribe label?
Yes. LightScribe does not require your attention during the label burning process. You can continue using your computer for other tasks while the label is being burned.
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Will the LightScribe image fade or darken over time or with exposure to light?
LightScribe discs are optimized to ensure that the label surface lasts. Some minor fading may occur over time. To ensure the longest life for both the label and data, keep optical discs out of direct light.
-
Is the LightScribe surface/coating safe to handle?
Yes, LightScribe discs are safe to handle, like other optical discs.
-
Can I re-do a LightScribe label?
The LightScribe label is permanent and not erasable.
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Why does my LightScribe drive not recognize the LightScribe discs I purchased?
If you are not using a LightScribe disc, the LightScribe disc is dirty, or if the LightScribe disc contains updated burning capabilities, you may receive an error when attempting to create a label:
This is not a LightScribe disc.
Cannot create LightScribe label.
LightScribe Engine Error: A communication error has occurred with the LightScribe drive. Please restart your PC and try the label again.
Make sure that you are burning labels with gold discs containing the LightScribe logo.
The disc must have a clean surface, free of smudges (especially around the center of the disc).
Sometimes, when new LightScribe discs are used, the firmware for your LightScribe drive needs to be updated. Updated firmware enables the LightScribe drive to be able to read more types of blank discs.
For Notebook PCs, go to www.hp.com/go/techcenter/lightscribe (in English) and download and install updated LightScribe software.
For Pavilion, Presario, and Media Center desktop PCs, download the latest LightScribe System Software Update (in English)
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What happens if I forget to flip the disc over before burning the label?
The LightScribe software notifies you that the disc is not recognized and prompts you to flip the disc over. The disc must be placed label side down in the optical disc tray.
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Why am I prompted to update my LightScribe System Software?
LightScribe System Software contains settings that help optimize the labeling speed and image quality for different drives and media. When a new LightScribe media is not recognized, the labeling software prompts you for a LightScribe System Software update that contains optimized settings for new media. HP recommends updating the LightScribe System Software whenever prompted.
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What is generic mode printing?
Generic printing is a labeling mode you can use to create a label when new LightScribe media is being used without updating the LightScribe System Software. The LightScribe system software can be updated at a later, more convenient time. When using generic mode printing, speed and image quality may not be best.
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My DVD labels appear faded. Is there a way to increase Contrast?
An Extended Label Contrast Utility is available for download at the LightScribe Website (in English). Using this utility can result in higher contrast, but with longer label burning times.
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When attempting to download the LightScribe System Software update from the LightScribe website, nothing happened when I clicked the "update" or "download". What do I do?
You must have administrator privileges before making system changes to your PC. If you do not have administrative privileges, log onto an account that does have these privilages, or contact someone with administrator privileges to your computer to help you.
In some cases, the settings in security software or the Internet browser may interfere when downloading and installing the update. Temporarily disable anti-virus, spyware or pop-up blocker programs. Make sure to accept and proceed with any messages that may appear. Security software programs typically have small icons in the lower right corner of your desktop, next to the time. Temporarily disabling security software may help. Right-click the security icon for the firewall or antivirus software and select disabled. Remember to re-enable them after the update is complete. If the PC is behind a Firewall, check your Firewall security settings before attempting the download or contact the system administrator for directions.
Tips & Tricks
Before you begin, take a moment to review these helpful suggestions.
Choose a design that fits your needs. The LightScribe software that came with your PC has a number of pre-designed templates for any occasion.
Use your own text, photos, or designs. Open your favorite graphic design application, create your artwork, and save it in .bmp, .tif, or .jpg format. From your LightScribe software, select the file as a background and complete your label by adding any desired text.
Make each CD or DVD a work in progress. You can add new text and pictures (for example, more song names or file names) to a previously burned label. Simply load the label design you originally used to burn the label, clear the existing text and graphics to avoid duplicate information being burned, then add the new label information and burn again.
Preview your label. To make sure the label is exactly the way you want it, use the Print Preview function (if available) or print the label out on paper to see it before burning.
Cut down on your label burning time. Switch from Best to Normal mode: you’ll burn fewer tracks per inch which takes less burn time but creates a lighter image. Or use the Title or Content templates instead of Full Disc. Because LightScribe burns from the center of the disc to the outside edge in concentric rings, Title and Content templates save time by confining your label to a narrower band. For the same reason, using circular text instead of straight text can also speed up burn times.
Go for contrast. A high-contrast photo or graphic stands out better than a picture in mostly soft middle tones. Use your software’s preview feature to see how the graphics you use look on disc.
Keep using your PC. While the label is being created, you can continue to use your PC for other activities. The LightScribe software indicates the time remaining to burn the design.
Avoid sudden shock or vibration. While the disc is labeling, avoid any sudden shock or vibration to the PC.
If you are using a notebook, avoid sudden loss of power. While the disc is labeling, keep your notebook AC adapter and power cord plugged into a working electrical outlet.
Installing or restoring LightScribe software on a notebook PC
Before you can create a LightScribe label using your notebook PC, you must install the required software. To install or restore the LightScribe software, insert the HP DVD Writer disc, found in the "Required for Setup" bag that is included with your notebook. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
Creating a LightScribe label
Burning a label with LightScribe is a separate process from burning data, music, or pictures onto a disc. Depending on the LightScribe software you use, you can create a label before or after you burn files onto the disc.
NOTE:
To burn the label after burning disc content, you must flip the disc over and place it label-side down in the optical drive tray.
Labels can be a simple title with a contents list, or you can get more creative by adding backgrounds and images.
You can design and create the label with InterVideo Disc Labeler, Sonic Express Labeler, or iTunes (available with select versions of LightScribe software only). The following sections provide instructions for creating LightScribe labels
With InterVideo Disc Label.
With Sonic Express Labeler.
After burning a disc with iTunes (available with select versions of LightScribe software only).
Using InterVideo DiscLabel to create a LightScribe label
Click Start, All Programs, InterVideo DiscLabel, and then click InterVideo DiscLabel again.
Select a template style from the Template menu and click Apply.
Double-click the title text box, if present, or click Add Text.
Type the text into the Rich Text Edit window and then click OK.
With the text box selected (click the box once), use the Text toolbar to modify the font, color, and other text properties.
Double-click the list text box, if present, or click Add List to add a list of contents to the label.
Click Add to add a row to the list.
To enter text for a list item, move the cursor over one of the item boxes (Title, Artist, or Length); click the box; and then enter text.
Repeat steps 7 and 8 for each item you want to add to the list of contents.
Click OK when you are finished with the list.
Select a background for the disc label:
Click the Theme menu and choose one of the provided theme images. Click Apply.
Or
Click Edit Background and then click Change Background to add a background image to the label. Follow the onscreen instructions to browse and select an image file. InterVideo DiscLabel supports .jpg, .bmp, and .png image files.
NOTE:
If you use a color image or theme, LightScribe burns it as a greyscale (monochrome) image.
Click Add Image and follow the on-screen instructions to browse to and select an image file.
Click and drag the image to the desired area on the label. You can resize the image by clicking and dragging the sides or corners of the image.
NOTE:
To remove an image from the label, click the image and then press Delete on your keyboard.
When you are satisfied with the appearance of your label design, click LightScribe Print.
Click Print, insert the LightScribe disc (label-side down) in the disc tray, and then click OK. The estimated time to complete the label is displayed, along with a progress bar. You can continue to work on your PC while LightScribe is burning the label.
NOTE:
A sudden bump or vibration of the computer during the labeling process may affect the quality of the label.
Using Sonic Express Labeler to create a LightScribe label
Click Start, All Programs, Sonic RecordNow!, and then click Express Labeler.
NOTE:
You can also open the Express Labeler from within RecordNow! by clicking Label Disc.
Make sure that Disc Label is selected in Step 1: Select Project.
Click Disc Titles to display the Edit Disc Title window. Enter text for the title and subtitle.
Click Tracks to display the Edit Tracks window. Click New to display the Track window. Enter text to identify the first track or file (you can optionally enter artist and date, or length), and then click OK.
Repeat step 4 for each track or file on the disc.
Click the left or right arrows next to Layout and Background to select design elements for the disc. The selections you make are previewed in the disc window.
NOTE:
If you use a color image, LightScribe burns it as a greyscale (monochrome) image.
When you are satisfied with the appearance of your label design, insert the LightScribe disc (label-side down) into the disc drive tray and then click Print.
From the Disc Label menu, select LightScribe 12cm Disc.
Select a Contrast Level and then click OK to begin burning the label. The estimated time to complete the label is displayed, along with a progress bar. You can continue to work on your PC while LightScribe is burning the label.
NOTE:
A sudden bump or vibration of the computer during the labeling process may affect the quality of the label.
Creating a LightScribe label with iTunes
iTunes works with Sonic Express Labeler to conveniently burn labels on a data CD or audio CD from iTunes. The playlist you create in iTunes to burn a disc is automatically imported into Express Labeler so that this information is available for you to use on your LightScribe label.
NOTE:
To use Express Labeler from iTunes, the data or music tracks in the playlist your are using must fit on a single CD.
Click Start, All Programs, iTunes, and then click iTunes again.
Burn a data or audio CD with iTunes. When the burning process is complete, click Yes on the Create LightScribe Label window.
Make sure that Disc Label is selected in Step 1: Select Project.
Select a label template by clicking the left or right arrows next to Layout and choosing a layout.
NOTE:
The various layouts show different amounts of playlist information. Some show only the playlist title, others show the playlist title and track names. You can edit the playlist information by clicking Disc Title to open the Edit Disc Title window.
Click Tracks to display the Edit Tracks window. Click New to display the Track window. Enter text to identify the first track or file (you can optionally enter artist and date, or length), and then click OK.
Repeat step 5 for each track or file on the disc.
Click the left or right arrows next to Background to select design elements for the disc. The selections you make are previewed in the disc window.
NOTE:
If you use a color image, LightScribe burns it as a greyscale (monochrome) image.
When you are satisfied with the appearance of your label design, insert the LightScribe disc (label-side down) into the disc drive tray and then click Print.
From the Disc Label menu, select LightScribe 12cm Disc.
Select a Contrast Level and then click OK to begin burning the label. The estimated time to complete the label is displayed, along with a progress bar. You can continue to work on your PC while LightScribe is burning the label.
Frequently Asked Questions
Tips & Tricks
Installing or restoring LightScribe software on a notebook PC
This document pertains to HP and Compaq PC with a LightScribe-enabled DVD drive.
LightScribe is a direct disc-labeling technology that provides a simple way to create precise silkscreen-quality labels for discs. All you have to do is burn, flip the disc, and then burn again.
NOTE:
If you are experiencing media or software detection problems with a LightScribe drive in your notebook PC, go to www.hp.com/go/techcenter/lightscribe (in English) and download updated LightScribe software.If you are experiencing media or software detection problems with a LightScribe drive in your HP Pavilion, Presario, or Media Center desktop PC download the latest LightScribe System Software Update (in English).
Creating a label uses the LightScribe-enabled DVD drive of your computer with enhanced disc-labeling software, and specially coated CD or DVD discs (sold separately).
A LightScribe-enabled DVD drive uses an optical laser to burn an image into the thin dye coating on the label side of a LightScribe disc. The LightScribe labeling system has no ink to smear, no paper to curl, and no sticky adhesive to cause problems.
LightScribe discs are identified by the LightScribe logo on the retail packaging and on the inner area of the disc itself.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my PC has a LightScribe drive?
If the drive door has the LightScribe name or logo on it, your drive is LightScribe capable. If the logo or name is missing, your drive is not LightScribe capable.
Some LightScribe-enabled slimline drives do not have enough space for a LightScribe logo or name on the drive tray cover, but a LightScribe logo sticker (see above) should be affixed to all LightScribe enabled notebook PCs. In addition, the presence of the disc encoder sensor indicates that a slimline drive is LightScribe enabled.
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Can I upgrade my current non-LightScribe DVD drive to work with LightScribe media?
You cannot upgrade your current optical drive to be LightScribe capable.
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How do I get LightScribe to appear in the Disc Label menu?
If LightScribe is not an option in Disc Label menu of Sonic Express Labeler or iTunes, the LightScribe software is not properly installed.
For notebook PCs, go to www.hp.com/go/techcenter/lightscribe (in English) and download updated LightScribe software.
For Pavilion, Presario, and Media Center desktop PCs, download the latest LightScribe System Software Update (in English)
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What do I need for LightScribe labeling?
Creating a LightScribe label requires the following four things:
A LightScribe enabled drive.
LightScribe system software. This is pre-installed on your LightScribe-enabled desktop or notebook.
Labeling software - this is software to create your label content and to send the label image to the LightScribe drive for burning. Examples include Sonic Express and Intervideo DiscLabel that are shipped with some systems.
LightScribe media - CDs and DVDs with a coating designed to respond to the laser from LightScribe-enabled drives.
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How long does it take to burn a LightScribe label?
The time required varies according to the image mode (Draft, Normal, and Best) and the surface area setting (narrow band with curved text, medium band with curved text, or the full disc surface). Using Draft or Normal imaging modes provides a shorter burn time, but also results in a lighter label. In most cases, the less area you use, the less time it takes to finish burning the label.
When beginning the burning of the label, the LightScribe software provides the estimated amount of time it will take to complete the label. A progress bar shows the remaining time during the burning process.
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Where are LightScribe discs sold?
Lightscribe media can be purchased from many online shopping sites and from local computer and office supplies stores. To purchase Lightscribe Media from HP, please refer to HP's How to buy site.
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Are LightScribe compatible Dual layer high capacity DVDs available?
Although most LightScribe enabled drives can read and write data to Dual Layer (DL) DVDs, there are no LightScribe enabled DL DVDs available at the time of this writing.
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Can LightScribe burn a color label?
Currently, LightScribe technology creates a grayscale image, similar to a black-and-white photograph.
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Can I use my PC for other things while I am burning a LightScribe label?
Yes. LightScribe does not require your attention during the label burning process. You can continue using your computer for other tasks while the label is being burned.
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Will the LightScribe image fade or darken over time or with exposure to light?
LightScribe discs are optimized to ensure that the label surface lasts. Some minor fading may occur over time. To ensure the longest life for both the label and data, keep optical discs out of direct light.
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Is the LightScribe surface/coating safe to handle?
Yes, LightScribe discs are safe to handle, like other optical discs.
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Can I re-do a LightScribe label?
The LightScribe label is permanent and not erasable.
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Why does my LightScribe drive not recognize the LightScribe discs I purchased?
If you are not using a LightScribe disc, the LightScribe disc is dirty, or if the LightScribe disc contains updated burning capabilities, you may receive an error when attempting to create a label:
This is not a LightScribe disc.
Cannot create LightScribe label.
LightScribe Engine Error: A communication error has occurred with the LightScribe drive. Please restart your PC and try the label again.
Make sure that you are burning labels with gold discs containing the LightScribe logo.
The disc must have a clean surface, free of smudges (especially around the center of the disc).
Sometimes, when new LightScribe discs are used, the firmware for your LightScribe drive needs to be updated. Updated firmware enables the LightScribe drive to be able to read more types of blank discs.
For Notebook PCs, go to www.hp.com/go/techcenter/lightscribe (in English) and download and install updated LightScribe software.
For Pavilion, Presario, and Media Center desktop PCs, download the latest LightScribe System Software Update (in English)
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What happens if I forget to flip the disc over before burning the label?
The LightScribe software notifies you that the disc is not recognized and prompts you to flip the disc over. The disc must be placed label side down in the optical disc tray.
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Why am I prompted to update my LightScribe System Software?
LightScribe System Software contains settings that help optimize the labeling speed and image quality for different drives and media. When a new LightScribe media is not recognized, the labeling software prompts you for a LightScribe System Software update that contains optimized settings for new media. HP recommends updating the LightScribe System Software whenever prompted.
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What is generic mode printing?
Generic printing is a labeling mode you can use to create a label when new LightScribe media is being used without updating the LightScribe System Software. The LightScribe system software can be updated at a later, more convenient time. When using generic mode printing, speed and image quality may not be best.
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My DVD labels appear faded. Is there a way to increase Contrast?
An Extended Label Contrast Utility is available for download at the LightScribe Website (in English). Using this utility can result in higher contrast, but with longer label burning times.
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When attempting to download the LightScribe System Software update from the LightScribe website, nothing happened when I clicked the "update" or "download". What do I do?
You must have administrator privileges before making system changes to your PC. If you do not have administrative privileges, log onto an account that does have these privilages, or contact someone with administrator privileges to your computer to help you.
In some cases, the settings in security software or the Internet browser may interfere when downloading and installing the update. Temporarily disable anti-virus, spyware or pop-up blocker programs. Make sure to accept and proceed with any messages that may appear. Security software programs typically have small icons in the lower right corner of your desktop, next to the time. Temporarily disabling security software may help. Right-click the security icon for the firewall or antivirus software and select disabled. Remember to re-enable them after the update is complete. If the PC is behind a Firewall, check your Firewall security settings before attempting the download or contact the system administrator for directions.
Tips & Tricks
Before you begin, take a moment to review these helpful suggestions.
Choose a design that fits your needs. The LightScribe software that came with your PC has a number of pre-designed templates for any occasion.
Use your own text, photos, or designs. Open your favorite graphic design application, create your artwork, and save it in .bmp, .tif, or .jpg format. From your LightScribe software, select the file as a background and complete your label by adding any desired text.
Make each CD or DVD a work in progress. You can add new text and pictures (for example, more song names or file names) to a previously burned label. Simply load the label design you originally used to burn the label, clear the existing text and graphics to avoid duplicate information being burned, then add the new label information and burn again.
Preview your label. To make sure the label is exactly the way you want it, use the Print Preview function (if available) or print the label out on paper to see it before burning.
Cut down on your label burning time. Switch from Best to Normal mode: you’ll burn fewer tracks per inch which takes less burn time but creates a lighter image. Or use the Title or Content templates instead of Full Disc. Because LightScribe burns from the center of the disc to the outside edge in concentric rings, Title and Content templates save time by confining your label to a narrower band. For the same reason, using circular text instead of straight text can also speed up burn times.
Go for contrast. A high-contrast photo or graphic stands out better than a picture in mostly soft middle tones. Use your software’s preview feature to see how the graphics you use look on disc.
Keep using your PC. While the label is being created, you can continue to use your PC for other activities. The LightScribe software indicates the time remaining to burn the design.
Avoid sudden shock or vibration. While the disc is labeling, avoid any sudden shock or vibration to the PC.
If you are using a notebook, avoid sudden loss of power. While the disc is labeling, keep your notebook AC adapter and power cord plugged into a working electrical outlet.
Installing or restoring LightScribe software on a notebook PC
Before you can create a LightScribe label using your notebook PC, you must install the required software. To install or restore the LightScribe software, insert the HP DVD Writer disc, found in the "Required for Setup" bag that is included with your notebook. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
Creating a LightScribe label
Burning a label with LightScribe is a separate process from burning data, music, or pictures onto a disc. Depending on the LightScribe software you use, you can create a label before or after you burn files onto the disc.
NOTE:
To burn the label after burning disc content, you must flip the disc over and place it label-side down in the optical drive tray.
Labels can be a simple title with a contents list, or you can get more creative by adding backgrounds and images.
You can design and create the label with InterVideo Disc Labeler, Sonic Express Labeler, or iTunes (available with select versions of LightScribe software only). The following sections provide instructions for creating LightScribe labels
With InterVideo Disc Label.
With Sonic Express Labeler.
After burning a disc with iTunes (available with select versions of LightScribe software only).
Using InterVideo DiscLabel to create a LightScribe label
Click Start, All Programs, InterVideo DiscLabel, and then click InterVideo DiscLabel again.
Select a template style from the Template menu and click Apply.
Double-click the title text box, if present, or click Add Text.
Type the text into the Rich Text Edit window and then click OK.
With the text box selected (click the box once), use the Text toolbar to modify the font, color, and other text properties.
Double-click the list text box, if present, or click Add List to add a list of contents to the label.
Click Add to add a row to the list.
To enter text for a list item, move the cursor over one of the item boxes (Title, Artist, or Length); click the box; and then enter text.
Repeat steps 7 and 8 for each item you want to add to the list of contents.
Click OK when you are finished with the list.
Select a background for the disc label:
Click the Theme menu and choose one of the provided theme images. Click Apply.
Or
Click Edit Background and then click Change Background to add a background image to the label. Follow the onscreen instructions to browse and select an image file. InterVideo DiscLabel supports .jpg, .bmp, and .png image files.
NOTE:
If you use a color image or theme, LightScribe burns it as a greyscale (monochrome) image.
Click Add Image and follow the on-screen instructions to browse to and select an image file.
Click and drag the image to the desired area on the label. You can resize the image by clicking and dragging the sides or corners of the image.
NOTE:
To remove an image from the label, click the image and then press Delete on your keyboard.
When you are satisfied with the appearance of your label design, click LightScribe Print.
Click Print, insert the LightScribe disc (label-side down) in the disc tray, and then click OK. The estimated time to complete the label is displayed, along with a progress bar. You can continue to work on your PC while LightScribe is burning the label.
NOTE:
A sudden bump or vibration of the computer during the labeling process may affect the quality of the label.
Using Sonic Express Labeler to create a LightScribe label
Click Start, All Programs, Sonic RecordNow!, and then click Express Labeler.
NOTE:
You can also open the Express Labeler from within RecordNow! by clicking Label Disc.
Make sure that Disc Label is selected in Step 1: Select Project.
Click Disc Titles to display the Edit Disc Title window. Enter text for the title and subtitle.
Click Tracks to display the Edit Tracks window. Click New to display the Track window. Enter text to identify the first track or file (you can optionally enter artist and date, or length), and then click OK.
Repeat step 4 for each track or file on the disc.
Click the left or right arrows next to Layout and Background to select design elements for the disc. The selections you make are previewed in the disc window.
NOTE:
If you use a color image, LightScribe burns it as a greyscale (monochrome) image.
When you are satisfied with the appearance of your label design, insert the LightScribe disc (label-side down) into the disc drive tray and then click Print.
From the Disc Label menu, select LightScribe 12cm Disc.
Select a Contrast Level and then click OK to begin burning the label. The estimated time to complete the label is displayed, along with a progress bar. You can continue to work on your PC while LightScribe is burning the label.
NOTE:
A sudden bump or vibration of the computer during the labeling process may affect the quality of the label.
Creating a LightScribe label with iTunes
iTunes works with Sonic Express Labeler to conveniently burn labels on a data CD or audio CD from iTunes. The playlist you create in iTunes to burn a disc is automatically imported into Express Labeler so that this information is available for you to use on your LightScribe label.
NOTE:
To use Express Labeler from iTunes, the data or music tracks in the playlist your are using must fit on a single CD.
Click Start, All Programs, iTunes, and then click iTunes again.
Burn a data or audio CD with iTunes. When the burning process is complete, click Yes on the Create LightScribe Label window.
Make sure that Disc Label is selected in Step 1: Select Project.
Select a label template by clicking the left or right arrows next to Layout and choosing a layout.
NOTE:
The various layouts show different amounts of playlist information. Some show only the playlist title, others show the playlist title and track names. You can edit the playlist information by clicking Disc Title to open the Edit Disc Title window.
Click Tracks to display the Edit Tracks window. Click New to display the Track window. Enter text to identify the first track or file (you can optionally enter artist and date, or length), and then click OK.
Repeat step 5 for each track or file on the disc.
Click the left or right arrows next to Background to select design elements for the disc. The selections you make are previewed in the disc window.
NOTE:
If you use a color image, LightScribe burns it as a greyscale (monochrome) image.
When you are satisfied with the appearance of your label design, insert the LightScribe disc (label-side down) into the disc drive tray and then click Print.
From the Disc Label menu, select LightScribe 12cm Disc.
Select a Contrast Level and then click OK to begin burning the label. The estimated time to complete the label is displayed, along with a progress bar. You can continue to work on your PC while LightScribe is burning the label.
Drive Letter Access (DLA)
Drive Letter Access (DLA)
Installing DLA
Preparing DLA for use
Adding and erasing files on a disc
Making DLA discs work in other computers
Frequently asked questions
This document pertains to HP Media Center PCs and HP Pavilion PCs with Windows XP, or XP Media Center edition.
HP DLA software allows you to copy files to a recordable disc using the drag-and-drop method (like a floppy disk drive). When using HP DLA to copy files directly to CDs or DVDs, you need to format the disc first. After formatting the disc and recording files, the disc becomes compatible so it can be read from other computers.
Use this document to download, install, use, and troubleshoot Drive Letter Access (DLA) software from HP.
NOTE:
The main functionalities of DLA are very similar to the native burning capabilities of Windows XP. If you want to drag and drop files into a CDRW drive window or send files to a CDRW disc, you can use Windows XP to burn a disc. For more information, refer to HP and Compaq PCs - Creating a Data CD or DVD .
Installing DLA
Use the following steps to download and install DLA:
CAUTION:
DLA 3.59 and earlier is not compatible with Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2). Attempting to use DLA 3.59 with Windows XP SP2 will result in an error message. 3.59 is the latest downloadable version of DLA that came with HP Desktop PCs. If the CD or DVD drive in your PC is labeled as an HP branded CD or DVD writer, you can download a compatible version to resolve this situation, refer to the HP support document Error in DLA at End of Format After Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2) Update (in English). Otherwise, uninstall DLA and use the native burning capabilites of Windows XP.
For HP and Compaq Desktop PCs without an HP branded CD or DVD writer and without Windows XP service Pack 2, you can Download DLA 3.59 .
Click Open and then click Next.
The files extract to a temporary folder on the hard drive.
Click Next on the Welcome to DLA window.
Click Yes to disable CD recording in Windows XP.
Read the license agreement and accept the terms if you agree.
Click Next to install DLA to the path shown in the install location.
Click Install.
Click Yes to restart the computer. DLA is installed.
Click Start, and then My Computer.
Right-click the name of recordable drive that you want to use (like DVD/CD-RW Drive), and select Use with DLA.
NOTE:
If you have more than one CD writable drive, only one drive can be enabled for DLA at a time.
Windows with DLA can now format a recordable disc on the drive.
Preparing DLA for use
Before you can write data to a recordable disc, you must first format the disc. You can format using quick or full formatting. Quick formatting can take up to a minute to perform and only works with CD-R (write-once) discs. Full formatting may take several hours but enables the full formatted space to be used many times on re-writable discs. Full formatting also allows for some error correction while a quick format does not.
Use the following steps to format a recordable disc:
NOTE:
Formatting a disc erases all data that is stored on it. Make sure that there are no files that you want to keep on the disk that you are going to format.
Insert a recordable disc into the drive.
Click Start, and then My Computer.
Right-click the name of recordable drive, make sure that Use with DLA is selected, and then click Format.
Type a label name for your disc and select the format type. You can only select Quick erase if you are using CD-R discs.
Click the Start button and wait for the format to finish. Do not use the computer while the disc is formatting.
Files can be written to the disc after the format is complete.
Adding and erasing files on a disc
Once a disc has been formatted, open the window for the disc in Explorer or My Computer. Drag and drop files from other windows into the disc window to immediately copy files onto the disc. To remove a file, click on it from the disc window and press the Delete key.
Making DLA discs work in other computers
After you are done adding and deleting files on a disc made with DLA (DLA disc), you can use the Make Compatible feature to allow the disc to be read by other computers. The Make Compatible feature also works with some writable DVD media and drives.
Keep the following items in mind before using the Make Compatible feature:
Make Compatible closes the session on CD-R discs. Files can be added later, but Make Compatible has to be used again before the new files can be used on other computers. Make Compatible can be run on a single CD-R disc approximately fifteen times.
Make Compatible finalizes write-once DVD discs. Files cannot be added to the disc after the Make Compatible feature has finished.
Make Compatible closes the session on rewriteable DVDs. Files can be added to the disc after using the feature, but Make Compatible has to be used again before the new files can be used on other computers.
Discs cannot be read in DOS mode.
Long filenames can be shortened to eight characters on computers that do not have DLA installed.
Directories deeper than thirty folders cannot be read on computers that do not have DLA installed.
Use the following steps to use the Make Compatible feature:
Insert the DLA disc into the drive that is configured for DLA.
Click Start, and then My Computer.
Right-click on the drive containing the disc and select Make Compatible. The Make Compatible menu item does not appear if the disc is CD-RW or certain types of recordable DVD media.
A Compatibility - DLA window appears
Click the Start button and wait for the Make Compatible feature to complete.
Frequently asked questions
Question: I get errors when using DLA. How can I resolve these errors?
Answer: Perform the following steps and check if DLA works after each step:
Attempting to use DLA 3.59 with Windows XP SP2 will result in an error message. 3.59 is the latest downloadable version of DLA that came with HP Desktop PCs. If the CD or DVD drive in your PC is labeled as an HP branded CD or DVD writer, you can download a compatible version to resolve this situation, refer to the HP support document Error in DLA at End of Format After Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2) Update (in English). Otherwise, uninstall DLA and use the native burning capabilites of Windows XP.
Use proper recordable media. If DLA works with one disc but not another, try another brand of disc.
DLA is known not to be compatible with DirectCD, inCD, and the native recording capablilities of Windows XP. If you have either inCD or DirectCD, uninstall it or uninstall DLA. For Windows XP, enable DLA from the DLA tab of a recordable drive properties (see preparing DLA for use ). After disabling Windows XP recording, DLA should work.
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Question: I have two drives that can record to discs, but only one works with DLA. How can I make DLA work both drives?
Answer: You can't record with two drives. DLA only works with one drive at a time. Recording on more than one drive at a time with any type of recording software is not recommended. You can, however, right-click on any recordable drive icon in My Computer and select it as the drive that uses DLA. If you have two of the same drive model, DLA provides options for only one.
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Question: I get errors or corrupt files when I write files to a drive set with DLA on a network. How can I fix this?
Answer: A drive set up for DLA should not be shared over the network. Instead, turn off DLA on the drive and use the native recording capabilities of Windows XP.
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Question: How do I use DLA with MS Backup?
Answer: DLA is not compatible with MS Backup. Remove all discs that are formatted with DLA, turn off DLA on the drive, and use the native recording capabilities of Windows XP.
Installing DLA
Preparing DLA for use
Adding and erasing files on a disc
Making DLA discs work in other computers
Frequently asked questions
This document pertains to HP Media Center PCs and HP Pavilion PCs with Windows XP, or XP Media Center edition.
HP DLA software allows you to copy files to a recordable disc using the drag-and-drop method (like a floppy disk drive). When using HP DLA to copy files directly to CDs or DVDs, you need to format the disc first. After formatting the disc and recording files, the disc becomes compatible so it can be read from other computers.
Use this document to download, install, use, and troubleshoot Drive Letter Access (DLA) software from HP.
NOTE:
The main functionalities of DLA are very similar to the native burning capabilities of Windows XP. If you want to drag and drop files into a CDRW drive window or send files to a CDRW disc, you can use Windows XP to burn a disc. For more information, refer to HP and Compaq PCs - Creating a Data CD or DVD .
Installing DLA
Use the following steps to download and install DLA:
CAUTION:
DLA 3.59 and earlier is not compatible with Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2). Attempting to use DLA 3.59 with Windows XP SP2 will result in an error message. 3.59 is the latest downloadable version of DLA that came with HP Desktop PCs. If the CD or DVD drive in your PC is labeled as an HP branded CD or DVD writer, you can download a compatible version to resolve this situation, refer to the HP support document Error in DLA at End of Format After Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2) Update (in English). Otherwise, uninstall DLA and use the native burning capabilites of Windows XP.
For HP and Compaq Desktop PCs without an HP branded CD or DVD writer and without Windows XP service Pack 2, you can Download DLA 3.59 .
Click Open and then click Next.
The files extract to a temporary folder on the hard drive.
Click Next on the Welcome to DLA window.
Click Yes to disable CD recording in Windows XP.
Read the license agreement and accept the terms if you agree.
Click Next to install DLA to the path shown in the install location.
Click Install.
Click Yes to restart the computer. DLA is installed.
Click Start, and then My Computer.
Right-click the name of recordable drive that you want to use (like DVD/CD-RW Drive), and select Use with DLA.
NOTE:
If you have more than one CD writable drive, only one drive can be enabled for DLA at a time.
Windows with DLA can now format a recordable disc on the drive.
Preparing DLA for use
Before you can write data to a recordable disc, you must first format the disc. You can format using quick or full formatting. Quick formatting can take up to a minute to perform and only works with CD-R (write-once) discs. Full formatting may take several hours but enables the full formatted space to be used many times on re-writable discs. Full formatting also allows for some error correction while a quick format does not.
Use the following steps to format a recordable disc:
NOTE:
Formatting a disc erases all data that is stored on it. Make sure that there are no files that you want to keep on the disk that you are going to format.
Insert a recordable disc into the drive.
Click Start, and then My Computer.
Right-click the name of recordable drive, make sure that Use with DLA is selected, and then click Format.
Type a label name for your disc and select the format type. You can only select Quick erase if you are using CD-R discs.
Click the Start button and wait for the format to finish. Do not use the computer while the disc is formatting.
Files can be written to the disc after the format is complete.
Adding and erasing files on a disc
Once a disc has been formatted, open the window for the disc in Explorer or My Computer. Drag and drop files from other windows into the disc window to immediately copy files onto the disc. To remove a file, click on it from the disc window and press the Delete key.
Making DLA discs work in other computers
After you are done adding and deleting files on a disc made with DLA (DLA disc), you can use the Make Compatible feature to allow the disc to be read by other computers. The Make Compatible feature also works with some writable DVD media and drives.
Keep the following items in mind before using the Make Compatible feature:
Make Compatible closes the session on CD-R discs. Files can be added later, but Make Compatible has to be used again before the new files can be used on other computers. Make Compatible can be run on a single CD-R disc approximately fifteen times.
Make Compatible finalizes write-once DVD discs. Files cannot be added to the disc after the Make Compatible feature has finished.
Make Compatible closes the session on rewriteable DVDs. Files can be added to the disc after using the feature, but Make Compatible has to be used again before the new files can be used on other computers.
Discs cannot be read in DOS mode.
Long filenames can be shortened to eight characters on computers that do not have DLA installed.
Directories deeper than thirty folders cannot be read on computers that do not have DLA installed.
Use the following steps to use the Make Compatible feature:
Insert the DLA disc into the drive that is configured for DLA.
Click Start, and then My Computer.
Right-click on the drive containing the disc and select Make Compatible. The Make Compatible menu item does not appear if the disc is CD-RW or certain types of recordable DVD media.
A Compatibility - DLA window appears
Click the Start button and wait for the Make Compatible feature to complete.
Frequently asked questions
Question: I get errors when using DLA. How can I resolve these errors?
Answer: Perform the following steps and check if DLA works after each step:
Attempting to use DLA 3.59 with Windows XP SP2 will result in an error message. 3.59 is the latest downloadable version of DLA that came with HP Desktop PCs. If the CD or DVD drive in your PC is labeled as an HP branded CD or DVD writer, you can download a compatible version to resolve this situation, refer to the HP support document Error in DLA at End of Format After Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2) Update (in English). Otherwise, uninstall DLA and use the native burning capabilites of Windows XP.
Use proper recordable media. If DLA works with one disc but not another, try another brand of disc.
DLA is known not to be compatible with DirectCD, inCD, and the native recording capablilities of Windows XP. If you have either inCD or DirectCD, uninstall it or uninstall DLA. For Windows XP, enable DLA from the DLA tab of a recordable drive properties (see preparing DLA for use ). After disabling Windows XP recording, DLA should work.
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Question: I have two drives that can record to discs, but only one works with DLA. How can I make DLA work both drives?
Answer: You can't record with two drives. DLA only works with one drive at a time. Recording on more than one drive at a time with any type of recording software is not recommended. You can, however, right-click on any recordable drive icon in My Computer and select it as the drive that uses DLA. If you have two of the same drive model, DLA provides options for only one.
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Question: I get errors or corrupt files when I write files to a drive set with DLA on a network. How can I fix this?
Answer: A drive set up for DLA should not be shared over the network. Instead, turn off DLA on the drive and use the native recording capabilities of Windows XP.
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Question: How do I use DLA with MS Backup?
Answer: DLA is not compatible with MS Backup. Remove all discs that are formatted with DLA, turn off DLA on the drive, and use the native recording capabilities of Windows XP.
Can I upgrade my Windows 95, 98 or 98SE Operating System to Microsoft Windows XP?
Can I upgrade my Windows 95, 98 or 98SE Operating System to Microsoft Windows XP?
Important - read first
Microsoft Windows XP minimum requirements
Factors to consider prior to making an upgrade decision
Additional information
Important - read first
The following guidelines are provided to customers that are considering upgrading an existing HP Pavilion or Compaq Presario Desktop or Notebook PC to Windows XP. The purpose of this document is to help minimize frustration and surprises if the decision is made to upgrade to Windows XP. Anyone considering this upgrade should do so carefully. Although many HP and Compaq PCs may meet the minimum requirements recommended by Microsoft for upgrade to Windows XP, upgrading is not recommended for all PCs, especially where the base platform has not been tested and qualified by HP or Compaq for use with Windows XP.
Microsoft Windows XP minimum requirements
PC with 300 megahertz (MHz) or higher processor clock speed recommended; 233-MHz minimum required; Intel Pentium / Celeron (TM) family, AMD K6/Athlon/Duron family, or compatible processor recommended
128 megabytes (MB) of RAM or higher recommended (64 MB minimum supported; may limit performance and some features)
1.5 gigabyte (GB) of available hard disk space
Super VGA (800 × 600) or higher resolution video adapter and monitor
CD-ROM or DVD drive
Keyboard and Microsoft mouse or compatible pointing device
Factors to consider prior to making an upgrade decision
HP is unable to guarantee how Windows XP will function on a PC not originally designed and/or tested for this new operating system. HP Pavilion and Compaq Presario PCs that shipped with Windows 95, Windows 98 or Windows 98SE pre-installed, were not tested with Windows XP.
HP could not recommend upgrading where it could not guarantee a high level of compatibility for all basic hardware and software components of the PCs. PC device drivers (including graphics, BIOS, chipset, etc) for some PC components may simply not be available (now or in the future) as some parts manufacturers are no longer in business or have made business decisions to not provide updates for Windows XP.
The addition (by the PC owner) of a wide variety of third-party software and peripherals to the system may complicate a Windows XP upgrade.
Software pre-installed on the PC at purchase may require upgrades to the new XP-compatible version, if available, and at an additional cost. Contact the software company directly.
HP and Compaq's warranty and support cover only the original pre-installed operating system and software. Technical support for the retail version of Windows XP is provided by Microsoft.
Additional information
The following links will provide additional resource information on Windows XP:
Access Microsoft's Web site on upgrading to Windows XP (in English).
Go to Microsoft's Windows XP Upgrade Advisor Web site (in English).
Important - read first
Microsoft Windows XP minimum requirements
Factors to consider prior to making an upgrade decision
Additional information
Important - read first
The following guidelines are provided to customers that are considering upgrading an existing HP Pavilion or Compaq Presario Desktop or Notebook PC to Windows XP. The purpose of this document is to help minimize frustration and surprises if the decision is made to upgrade to Windows XP. Anyone considering this upgrade should do so carefully. Although many HP and Compaq PCs may meet the minimum requirements recommended by Microsoft for upgrade to Windows XP, upgrading is not recommended for all PCs, especially where the base platform has not been tested and qualified by HP or Compaq for use with Windows XP.
Microsoft Windows XP minimum requirements
PC with 300 megahertz (MHz) or higher processor clock speed recommended; 233-MHz minimum required; Intel Pentium / Celeron (TM) family, AMD K6/Athlon/Duron family, or compatible processor recommended
128 megabytes (MB) of RAM or higher recommended (64 MB minimum supported; may limit performance and some features)
1.5 gigabyte (GB) of available hard disk space
Super VGA (800 × 600) or higher resolution video adapter and monitor
CD-ROM or DVD drive
Keyboard and Microsoft mouse or compatible pointing device
Factors to consider prior to making an upgrade decision
HP is unable to guarantee how Windows XP will function on a PC not originally designed and/or tested for this new operating system. HP Pavilion and Compaq Presario PCs that shipped with Windows 95, Windows 98 or Windows 98SE pre-installed, were not tested with Windows XP.
HP could not recommend upgrading where it could not guarantee a high level of compatibility for all basic hardware and software components of the PCs. PC device drivers (including graphics, BIOS, chipset, etc) for some PC components may simply not be available (now or in the future) as some parts manufacturers are no longer in business or have made business decisions to not provide updates for Windows XP.
The addition (by the PC owner) of a wide variety of third-party software and peripherals to the system may complicate a Windows XP upgrade.
Software pre-installed on the PC at purchase may require upgrades to the new XP-compatible version, if available, and at an additional cost. Contact the software company directly.
HP and Compaq's warranty and support cover only the original pre-installed operating system and software. Technical support for the retail version of Windows XP is provided by Microsoft.
Additional information
The following links will provide additional resource information on Windows XP:
Access Microsoft's Web site on upgrading to Windows XP (in English).
Go to Microsoft's Windows XP Upgrade Advisor Web site (in English).
Windows ME to Windows XP HP Solution CD Readme File
Windows ME to Windows XP HP Solution CD Readme File
Introduction
Part one: Preparing to install Windows XP
Part two: Uninstalling incompatible software
Part three: Installing Windows XP
Activating Windows XP Operating System
Reinstalling programs and drivers
Additional information
Uninstalling Windows XP
Restoring the Operating System
Other issues and limitations
Technical support
Part one: Preparing to install Windows XP
Part two: Uninstalling incompatible software
Part three: Installing Windows XP
Activating Windows XP Operating System
Reinstalling programs and drivers
Additional information
Uninstalling Windows XP
Restoring the Operating System
Other issues and limitations
Technical support
Introduction
These instructions guide you through the steps for upgrading your HP Pavilion home PC from Microsoft Windows Millennium (Me) to Windows XP. It is important that you read through all of the instructions and then follow them in the order that they appear to avoid problems during the upgrade procedure. If you install the Microsoft Windows XP Upgrade CD before preparing the PC, you may encounter problems installing Windows XP.
Upgrading the PC to Windows XP does not erase data on the hard disk but may require some software programs to be uninstalled and replace with a Windows XP-compatible version. The upgrade procedure takes about one hour to complete.
To upgrade the PC, you need:
The Microsoft Windows XP Upgrade CD, which contains the Windows XP operating system.
The HP Windows Me to Windows XP Solution CD, which contains device drivers, BIOS files, and some software programs that are compatible with Windows XP.
NOTE: This document is based on the Read Me file that ships with the HP Solution CD for Windows XP.
Part one: Preparing to install Windows XP
Please print these instructions before you begin the upgrade process. You will need to load and unload the Windows Me to Windows XP HP Solution CD and restart your computer several times during the upgrade process.
Registering the HP Pavilion in Windows Me
HP strongly recommends registering your PC with HP if you have not already done so. Registering your PC can be done only from Windows Me. Registration is not necessary to upgrade your PC, but when you register with HP you can receive product and software upgrade offers and faster HP technical support.
To register with HP, you can:
Click the registration icon on your desktop and follow the onscreen instructions
-Or-
Go to the HP registration Web site and select the link to create a profile, then follow the onscreen instructions to register the HP Pavilion. When you register, you need to provide basic information about your computer: the date of purchase, and the serial number, which is located on the back of the computer.
Check system configuration requirements
HP and Microsoft recommend that your computer have at least 128 megabytes (MB) RAM and at least 1.5 gigabytes (GB) of free space on your hard disk to upgrade to Windows XP.
Determining that the HP Pavilion has the recommended memory
Click Start.
Select Settings.
Click ControlPanel.
Double-click the System icon.
Select the Performance tab. Check to see if the PC has the recommended 128 MB of RAM.
Determining that the HP Pavilion has the recommended free disk space
Click the MyComputer icon on the desktop.
Click the hard drive icon. The amount of free disk space is displayed on the left side of the window.
Backing up all important data
When you perform an upgrade to Windows XP, a copy of the Windows Me operating system and all your hard drive data is automatically made. Even though the Windows XP upgrade procedure does noterase all your hard drive and operating system files, you will need to back up your PC to prevent losing important files and settings.
To back up your Windows Me data, copy all your important data files on the hard drive to removable media such as CD-Rs, Zip disks, or diskettes. Files copied with Easy CD Creator can be accessed after the upgrade. Use CD-R rather than CD-RW media when backing up important data files. Remove the backup CD or disk before you begin the Windows XP upgrade.
WARNING: Do not use Adaptec Direct CD or the Microsoft drag-and-drop functionality to record important data files. Windows XP may not be able to access data from CDs created in some versions of Adaptec Direct CD.
Write down your passwords, login identifications, and Internet/network communication settings. You may need some of this information after you upgrade to Windows XP. If you need more information about backing up your important files, refer to the Help and Support Center. To get this information, click Start on your desktop, and then click Help.
Additional Adaptec Direct CD information
HP Pavilion models with CD-RW drives came with Adaptec software that enables you to record data to CDs. This HP Windows Me to Windows XP Solution CD includes a similar program, HP RecordNow from VERITAS, to replace the Adaptec Easy CD Creator software program. Windows XP provides the functionality of the Adaptec Direct CD program.
If you want to continue to use your Adaptec programs after the upgrade, you need to get XP-compatible versions from Adaptec/Roxio. If you do not want to obtain an Adaptec upgrade, and if you have CDs in a Direct CD format (for example, Windows Internet Explorer drag-and-drop), you can copy the data from these CDs to your hard disk drive. If you want them back on a CD, you can do so now using Easy CD Creator, or after the upgrading using HP RecordNow found on the Windows Me to Windows XP HP Solution CD.
Adaptec/Roxio has a Windows XP-compatible update for Easy CD Creator. Go to the Roxio Web site for more information about updated versions of Easy CD Creator and Direct CD.
NOTE: One or more of the links above will take you outside the Hewlett-Packard Web site. HP does not control and is not responsible for information outside of the HP Web site.
Updating BIOS
You may need to update the version, or revision, of your BIOS (Basic Input / Output System) for the PC hardware and software to communicate properly with the Windows XP operating system. The BIOS update is available on the Windows Me to Windows XP HP Solution CD, and also on the HP Web site. Follow the procedures below to determine what your current Windows Me BIOS revision is. Then, follow the instructions to determine the revision required for Windows XP, for your system. If you need to update the BIOS for Windows XP, follow the update procedure listed below.
CAUTION: Do not update BIOS unless you are sure it is the right BIOS revision for your PC. Using the wrong BIOS can cause serious problems with the PC.
Determining the current BIOS revision
Turn off the PC.
Turn on the PC and when the blue screen with the HP Invent logo appears, press the F1 key.
The message Entering SETUP appears.
When the BIOS Setup screen appears, the current revision is shown on the last line of the Main screen (for example: BIOS Revision 2.00 07/5/00). Write down this revision information and exit the BIOS program.
Finding the BIOS revision required to run Windows XP
Insert the Windows Me to Windows XP HP Solution CD.
Double-click My Computer on the desktop, and then double-click the CD-ROM drive to view the contents of the CD. Locate the appropriate BIOS Table file for your country. It will be named using the format BIOS_Table_
Double-click the appropriate BIOS Table file to open it. If the BIOS revision from the Windows Me operating system is earlier than the BIOS revision required to support Windows XP, proceed to the next steps in the section below to update your BIOS. If the BIOS revision for Windows Me is the same as what is listed for Windows XP, you do not need to update the BIOS.
If you do not need to update the BIOS, remove the Windows Me to Windows XP HP Solution CD, and go to Part two: Uninstalling incompatible software .
If your model number is not included on the Windows Me to Windows XP HP Solution CD BIOS table you can use the following procedure to download BIOS updates from the HP Web site, if available:
Go to the Hewlett-Packard Web .
Select your region or country from the drop-down list at the top of the page and click the arrow to the right of the drop-down list.
Click the Drivers link.
Enter your model number and follow onscreen instructions.
Click Drivers &Downloads when you get to the product screen to view the available updates.
Click BIOS, and then click HP Pavilion BIOS update for your model number.
Click the Download Now button.
A message appears telling you to save the executable (.EXE) file to disk, somewhere on the hard drive.
Select a location that you will remember and click Save.
Once you have downloaded the BIOS for your system, you can use the following installation instructions to update BIOS from either Windows Me or from Windows XP.
Updating BIOS from Windows Me
If the PC is still running Windows Me, use the following procedure to get the Windows XP-compatible BIOS update before you upgrade.
Create a Windows Me startup diskette.
Insert a blank diskette into your diskette drive.
Click Start, select Settings, then click ControlPanel.
Double-click Add/RemovePrograms.
When the dialog box appears, click the Startup Disk tab.
Click the Create Disk button to begin the process. Follow any onscreen instructions to complete formatting the diskette.
Insert the Windows Me to Windows XP HP Solution CD into the CD-ROM drive.
Double-click My Computer on the desktop and then double-click the CD-ROM drive icon to view the contents of the CD. Locate the appropriate BIOS Table file for your country. It will be named using the format BIOS_Table_
Double-click the appropriate BIOS Table file to open it. Under the listing for your country, find and click the model number of your HP Pavilion to access the correct BIOS update for your system. When prompted, select Run to run this program.
Depending on your settings, you may be prompted with a security warning. If so, click Yes.
When the program screen appears, click OK.
To extract the BIOS update files to the hard drive, click Unzip. When the files are unzipped, a message appears that a number of files have been unzipped. Click OK to close this dialog box. A Notepad window may open displaying the list of models the update supports. You can also close this Notepad window.
Insert the Windows Me startup diskette into the diskette drive and restart the computer.
After restarting from the startup disk, a DOS prompt appears. To go to where the BIOS update was unzipped:
Type: C:
Press ENTER, then type CD \HP\BIOSupdt
Press ENTER.
Type BIOSupdt and press ENTER to start the BIOS update program.
Press 2 to begin the update. When the update is complete, you may be prompted to press a key to restart the PC, or the PC may begin to restart automatically. In either case, remove the Windows Me startup disk to allow the PC to restart in Windows.
When restarting after the update, the following message may be displayed:
0251: System CMOS checksum bad – Default configuration used Press
If this message appears, press F2 to continue. The BIOS update is now complete.
Updating BIOS from Windows XP
If the PC is already running Windows XP, and you did not update the BIOS before upgrading to Windows XP, use the following procedure to get the Windows XP-compatible BIOS update:
Create a DOS start diskette:
Insert a blank diskette into the diskette drive.
Click the Start menu, then click My Computer, right-click the diskette drive icon and click Format.
Select Create an MS-DOS startup disk and click Start to begin the process. Follow any onscreen instructions to complete formatting the disk. Close the Format 3 1/2 Floppy window.
Insert the Windows Me to Windows XP HP Solution CD into the CD-ROM drive.
Double-click MyComputer on the desktop and then double-click the CD-ROM drive icon to view the contents of the CD. Locate the appropriate BIOS Table file for your country. It will be named using the format BIOS_Table_
Double-click the appropriate BIOS Table file to open it. Under the listing for your country, find and click the model number of the HP Pavilion to access the correct BIOS update for the system. When prompted, select Run to run this program.
Depending on the settings, you may see a security warning. If so, click Yes.
When the program screen appears, click OK.
To extract the BIOS update files to the hard drive, click Unzip. When the files are unzipped, a message appears that a number of files have been unzipped. Click OK to close this dialog box. A Notepad window may open displaying the list of models the update supports. You can also close this Notepad window.
NOTE: If, after you upgraded to Windows XP you also converted your file system to NTFS, you need to unzip these files to your diskette drive. When you start the DOS start diskette, you will not be able to seethe C: drive from the DOS environment. If this applies to you, replace C:\HP\BIOSupdt in this dialog box with A:\.
Insert the DOS start diskette in the diskette drive and restart the computer. If a Start menu appears, select option 4. Minimal Boot.
NOTE: If in Step 7 above, you unzipped the files to the diskette because the hard drive is in NTFS format, go to Step 10. (You will need to enter BIOSupdt at this point as you are already positioned to the A:\ drive.)
After restarting from the startup disk, a DOS prompt appears. To go to where the BIOS update was extracted:
Type: C:
Press ENTER, then type: CD \HP\BIOSupdt
Press ENTER.
Type BIOSupdt and press the ENTER key to begin the flashing program.
Press 2 to begin the update. When the update is complete, you may be prompted to press a key to restart the PC, or the PC may begin to restart automatically. In either case, remove the Windows Me startup disk to allow the PC to restart in Windows.
After the update, the following message may be displayed:
0251: System CMOS checksum bad - Default configuration used Press
If this message appears, press F2 to continue. The BIOS update is now complete.
Part two: Uninstalling incompatible software
The programs listed below will not function after upgrading to Windows XP. It is best to uninstall them beforebeginning the installation of Windows XP. You can then install compatible versions of the software (if available) afterupgrading. After the upgrade, you may not be able to uninstall these programs without encountering problems. HP has included some software programs on the HP Windows Me to Windows XP Solution CD to replace some of the incompatible versions listed below. See the software reinstallation information in the section "Reinstalling Programs and Drivers."
Programs to uninstall before upgrading
NOTE: Not all HP Pavilion models have all of the programs listed.
Adaptec Easy CD Creator (Version 5.0 or earlier)
Adaptec Direct CD (Version 5.0 or earlier)
McAfee ActiveShield
MusicMatch Jukebox (Version 6.0 or earlier)
One-touch Multimedia Keyboard
QuickLink III (fax software)
NOTE: CDs created using some versions of Adaptec Direct CD are not compatible with Windows XP. This makes the data you have recorded with this software inaccessible after you upgrade to Windows XP. If you have this problem, you will need to purchase an upgrade from Adaptec. Go to Roxio's Web Site (formerly Adaptec) for more information. If you do not want to obtain an Adaptec upgrade and if you have CDs in a Direct CD format (for example, Windows Internet Explorer drag-and-drop), you can copy the data from these CDs to your hard disk drive. If you want them back on a CD, you can do so now using Easy CD Creator, or after upgrading using HP RecordNow found on the Windows Me to Windows XP HP Solution CD.
NOTE: One or more of the links above will take you outside the Hewlett-Packard Web site. HP does not control and is not responsible for information outside of the HP Web site.
Uninstalling software programs
Click Start.
Select Settings.
Click ControlPanel.
Double-click the Add/Remove Programs icon.
Select the program to be removed.
Click the Add/Remove button.
NOTE: If you do not find one of the programs listed above, it is not installed in the computer.
Internet Service Provider (ISP) software
The ISP software may not work with Windows XP. You may need to install a Windows XP-compatible version. Some ISP software may be included in the ISP folder on the Windows Me to Windows XP HP Solution CD. If your ISP software is not included, please contact your ISP to see if they have a Windows XP-compatible version. Before upgrading to Windows XP, download the Windows XP-compatible version to the hard drive.
Other software issues
Studio DV will need to be reinstalled after upgrading to Windows XP. You can reinstall this program from the Studio DV CD that came with the HP Pavilion.
Windows Me Microsoft Backup will not function after upgrading to Windows XP. Any backup media you have created using Windows Me Microsoft Backup will not be able to be read in Windows XP. You may want to restore these data files using Microsoft Backup before upgrading.
The zip file of the My Photo Center program needs to be extracted before upgrading to Windows XP. To extract the files, open the program. Double-click the My Photo Center icon on the desktop or open the program through the Start menu and follow onscreen instructions to unzip the program files. Then, close the program before upgrading.
The SoundBlaster Live program needs to be activated before upgrading to Windows XP. To activate this program, click Start, select Programs, and select the SoundBlaster program. Then, close the program before upgrading.
The Wake on Ring feature in the QuickLink III fax software is not supported under Windows XP. After you upgrade to Windows XP, you can refer to the HelpandSupport window from the Start menu for more information about the Windows XP Fax program, which replaces the QuickLink III software.
Part three: Installing Windows XP
Complete the steps in the Preparing to Install Windows XP section before installing Windows XP.
Installing Windows XP
Close all programs.
Insert the Microsoft Windows XP Upgrade CD into the CD-ROM drive.
When prompted, select Install Windows XP. If the CD does not automatically launch, click Start, and then click Run. Type the following command, replacing “d” with the letter assigned to your CD-ROM drive: d:\setup.exe and press ENTER.
If prompted, select Upgrade as the Installation type. The Upgrade option preserves your installed programs, data files, and existing computer settings. The New Installation option (if available) is not recommended because it removes all programs, settings, preferences, and operating system files from a previous operating system.
NOTE: If you select the NTFS (Windows NT File System) option that may be available when you select the New Installation option, you will not be able to use the System Recovery CD that came with the HP Pavilion unless you repartition the drive.
Follow the onscreen instructions. If the installation program encounters any hardware or software incompatible with Windows XP, an Upgrade Report or a Report of System Incompatibility appears to inform you of the specific hardware and software conflicts. These reports are saved automatically on the desktop as UPGRADE.HTM.
Upgrade Report: If you receive this report, you can remove the incompatible program(s) by exiting the upgrade program before installing Windows XP or you can remove the program(s) after the upgrade is complete. It is a good idea to print the Upgrade Report for future reference.
Report of System Incompatibility: If you receive this report, you must exit the upgrade program and remove the incompatible program(s) before installing Windows XP. It is a good idea to print the Report of System Incompatibility for future reference.
When the installation is complete, you are asked to enter information, including names and passwords. Check your upgrade report, if there is one, and remove any incompatible programs that remain.
Remove the Microsoft Windows XP Upgrade CD.
Activating Windows XP Operating System
If you have not activated Windows XP at the end of the installation process, you need to activate the Windows XP operating system with Microsoft within 30 days, or you will not be able to use your computer. Windows XP reminds you periodically to do this. You can activate your operating system over the Internet, if you have a modem connection, or on the telephone. When you activate your copy of Windows XP, it assures your product is a legal copy.
Activating Windows XP
Click Start.
Select All Programs.
Select Accessories.
Select SystemTools.
Click Activate Windows.
NOTE: Certain Microsoft software products included with this upgrade kit may use technological measures for copy protection. In such event, you will not be able to use the product if you do not fully comply with the product activation procedures. Product activation procedures and Microsoft’s privacy policy will be detailed during initial launch of the product or upon certain reinstallations of the software product(s) or reconfigurations of this computer, and may be completed via Internet or telephone (toll charges may apply).
Reinstalling programs and drivers
NOTE: Incompatible programs may affect your ability to connect to the Internet, access e-mail, print, scan, play games, or listen to sounds and music.
Installing software programs
You can find some of the Windows XP-compatible programs listed below on the Windows Me to Windows XP HP Solution CD. For software not originally supplied by HP, you may be able to get a Windows XP-compatible version directly from the software manufacturer.
Installing software programs
Insert the Windows Me to Windows XP HP Solution CD into the CD-ROM drive.
Locate the SETUP.EXE file using the pathway listed in the following table. Click Start, My Computer, and then double-click the CD-ROM icon to view the CD contents.
Double-click the SETUP.EXE file. The program installs automatically. If you are connected to the Internet, click the link to the vendor’s Web site to check for Windows XP-compatible versions of their programs. Review any upgrade reports you receive for programs that still need to be uninstalled and/or reinstalled.
NOTE: One or more of the links below will take you outside the Hewlett-Packard Web site. HP does not control and is not responsible for information outside of the HP Web site.
Software program
Pathway to the Setup file on the HP solution CD
Web site link (some fees may apply)
InterVideo WinDVD (decoder file)
(For HP Pavilions with DVD-ROM drives only)
If prompted after the upgrade to Windows XP, follow the onscreen instructions to access the updated WinDVD decoder file.
McAfee ActiveShield
http://www.mcafee.com
MusicMatch Jukebox
(CD-ROM):\Apps\MusicMatch\Your Language\setup.exe
One-touch Multimedia Keyboard
(CD-ROM):\Apps\MultimediaKeyboard\setup.exe
Adaptec Easy CD Creator
NA
http://www.roxio.com
Adaptec Direct CD
NA
http://www.roxio.com
HP RecordNow 3.1 (Replaces Adaptec Easy CD Creator)
(CD-ROM):\Apps\Veritas\setup.exe
QuickLink III
The QuickLink III fax program has been replaced by the Microsoft fax program. To install the Microsoft Fax component, see the following procedure.
Studio DV
Reinstall this program from the Studio DV CD that came with the HP Pavilion.
Reinstalling ISP software
The original ISP software may not work properly with Windows XP. You may need to install a Windows XP-compatible version. Some ISP software is included in the ISP folder on the Windows Me to Windows XP HP Solution CD. If the ISP software is in this folder, click the Setup file to install it. If not, install any upgraded version you may have downloaded from your ISP before you started this upgrade.
Installing the Microsoft Fax program
Insert the Microsoft Windows XP Upgrade CD into the CD-ROM drive.
If the Welcome to Microsoft Windows XPwindow opens, click the Exit button.
Click the Start menu on the desktop.
Click ControlPanel.
Click Add or Remove Programs.
Click Add/Remove Windows Components.
In the Windows Components Wizard, select the Fax Services check box and then click the Next button.
Click Finish.
Click Close.
Accessing the Microsoft Fax program
Click Start.
Select All Programs.
Select Accessories.
Select Communications.
Select Fax.
Click Fax Console.
Enter sender information that will appear on the fax page and follow onscreen instructions until the Fax Console window appears.
Viewing saved QuickLink III faxes
Right-click the QuickLink III fax file name.
Select OpenWith.
Select Windows Picture and Fax Viewer.
Installing drivers
You can find some of these Windows XP-compatible drivers on the Windows Me to Windows XP HP Solution CD. Others can be downloaded from the Internet.
The HP Web site may have other drivers needed to run your peripheral devices in Windows XP that are not included on this CD. Go to the HP Web site to check the availability of peripheral drivers for Windows XP. Select drivers, and follow the onscreen instructions.
Viewing the current drivers in Device Manager
Click the Start menu on the desktop.
Click Control Panel.
Click Performance and Maintenance. You may need to scroll down in the window to see it.
Click the System icon.
Click the Hardware tab.
Click the Device Manager button.
Click + (Plus Sign) next to the driver icon to expand the Device Manager list.
Installing updated drivers
Insert the Windows Me to Windows XP HP Solution CD into the CD-ROM drive.
Locate the SETUP.EXE file using the pathway listed in the following table. Click Start, My Computer, and then double-click the CD-ROM icon to view the CD contents.
Double-click the SETUP.EXE file. The driver installs automatically.
NOTE: HP has provided drivers for three graphics cards. These drivers are for enhanced graphic performance, but are not required for the system to function. If the computer has one of these drivers already, you will find it in Device Manager. Check to see which driver you have before installing the Windows XP-compatible versions.
Device Manager category
Driver file name
Pathway to Setup File on the HP Solution CD
Display adapters (graphics):
nVidia
(CD-ROM):\Drivers\Graphics\NVidia\setup.exe
Display adapters (graphics):
Intel 810
(CD-ROM):\Drivers\Graphics\Intel i81x\setup.exe
Display adapters (graphics):
S3 ProSavage
(CD-ROM):\Drivers\Graphics\VIA-s3\setup.exe
Additional information
Software compatibility
Most programs are not affected by the upgrade and will function properly after the Windows XP upgrade. Some incompatible applications can be run in Compatibility mode. Right-click an executable file, select Properties, select Compatibility mode, and select Win98 / Win Me.
Some programs, such as Easy Internet Sign-up and HP Tour Guide, are notreplaced because they were specifically designed for the Windows Me operating system and not designed for the Windows XP operating system. To remove any shortcuts from the desktop, right-click the icon and select Delete.
Versions of some programs that you have purchased and installed yourself, and any software not mentioned in this document may require a Windows XP-compatible version. These updated versions may be obtained from the software manufacturer (if available).
Some programs are replaced with equivalent software (for example, the Help & Support Center by Hewlett-Packard and Microsoft is replaced by the Windows XP version of the Help and Support Center). The Easy CD Creator program from Adaptec is replaced with the HP RecordNow program from VERITAS.
Uninstalling Windows XP
During the upgrade process, setup automatically backs up the existing version of Windows Me. If you decide that you do not want to run Windows XP for a specific reason, you can restore the computer safely even if some new programs remain. To restore the original operating system, you can uninstall Windows XP using Add or Remove Programs as outlined below. This process works if you want to temporarily uninstall Windows XP to use Windows Me software or backup files, for example.
NOTE: If you uninstall Windows XP using Add or Remove Programs, you may experience error messages when you restart the restored Windows Me operating system, but it will still function. If you want to permanently uninstall Windows XP, HP recommends you restore the operating system with the System Recovery CD that originally came with the HP Pavilion PC.
Uninstalling Windows XP
Click Start.
Click Control Panel.
Click Add or Remove Programs.
Select Windows XP.
Click the Change/Remove button.
Click Uninstall Windows XP.
Click Continue. Follow the instructions on the screen.
Restoring the Operating System
If you choose to restore the operating system using the Windows Me System Recovery CD provided with the HP Pavilion, all Windows XP files on the computer will be erased. Make sure that you back up your important data before restoring the operating system. If you installed or uninstalled programs after you upgraded to Windows XP, you may need to reinstall them if you restore your operating system to Windows Me. If you restore the operating system to Windows Me, these programs will not be restored. If you created new documents in Windows XP, they will remain on the hard disk after your previous version of Windows is restored. Some of these documents may be moved to a folder Windows XP creates.
NTFS and system recovery
If you chose the NTFS (Windows NT File System) option during a Windows XP new installation, you will need to delete the non-DOS partition of the hard drive before starting a system recovery using the System Recovery CD. Otherwise, you will not be able to use the System Recovery CD that came with the HP Pavilion later if you want to reinstall Windows Me. If after upgrading to Windows XP, you choose to convert your file system to NTFS, you can no longer revert to Windows Me without losing all your data. You also will need to repartition the hard disk drive using the FDISK utility on the hard drive for the System Recovery CD to work.
Other issues and limitations
The HP Pavilion Application Recovery CD for Windows Me does not function after upgrading to Windows XP.
If there is no sound coming through the headphone jack on the master CD-ROM unit, you can enable this device with the following procedure. Click Start, My Computer, right-click the CD-ROM icon, click Properties, select the Hardware tab, select the CD/DVD drive, click the Properties button, and then click the Properties tab and uncheck Enable digital CD audio for this device.
The NetMeeting and Phone dialer features do not support a 1394 digital camcorder as a video capture device.
The 1394 network connection shows a connection when no connection is present. Contact Microsoft for more information.
If you adjust the font sizes in the Display Properties window to the smallest or largest sizes, fonts may be too small to see or too large. You may also have a problem returning to the default settings. To access the font settings, click Start, Control Panel, Appearance and Themes, Display, and click the Appearance tab.
The CD-ROM drive letter changes after upgrading to Windows XP. These letters can be changed. Refer to Help and Support in the Start menu for more information about changing these letters.
When you launch the Guided Tour of the Trellix Web program, it generates two error messages, but the tour functions properly.
Windows XP does not support NetBEUI as a LAN protocol.
When the system is connected to an ISP, and if the system goes into standby mode, the ISP is disconnected without a warning message.
Windows XP is unable to look for other computers using the Computer near mefeature, because the Computer Browser Service is not started automatically. To activate the Computer Browser Service, click Start, Control Panel, Performance and Maintenance, Administrative Tools, double-click the Services icon, select StartComputer Browser, right-click Manual, and select Properties, and then select Automatic from Startup Type.
If you receive the message "Will not fit" when recording an audio CD, and you know that you have enough space on the CD, then you can ignore this message. Contact Microsoft for more information.
If the Network with TCP/IP card is not installed with the HP Pavilion, the Settings button in the Speech Properties windows is grayed out. To access the Settings button, click Start, Control Panel, Sounds, Speech, and AudioDevices, and click the Speech icon.
If the Microsoft Office document shortcuts in the Start menu prompts you to insert the Microsoft Word 2000 CD, double-click the document or open the document in the Microsoft Word program.
The BIOS Boot Device Priority will be different with BIOS rev. 3.xx. The order will be Removable Devices drive, Hard Drive, and then the ATAPI CD-ROM drive. If you want to use the System Recovery CD, you need to change this order in the BIOS settings; otherwise the CD will be unable to start. To do this, restart the computer. When the blue screen with the HP Invent logo appears, press and hold down the F1 key on the keyboard until Entering Setupis displayed. Select the Boot menu, select Boot Device Priority, and then press the ENTER key. Select ATAP I CD- ROMand press the + (PLUS SIGN) key.
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