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HP Digital Entertainment Center User’s Guide...
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Macrovision Corporation and is intended for home and other limited viewing uses only unless otherwise authorized by Macrovision HP assumes no responsibility for the use or reliability of its software on Corporation. Reverse engineering or disassembly is prohibited. equipment that is not furnished by HP.
System Diagram ........... 24 FM Radio Antenna ........59 Installation Guidelines ......26 Placement and Ventilation Requirements ....27 Basic Setup .......... 29 Setting Up the HP Digital Entertainment Center ..29 Inventory..........31 Cables Included ........... 32 Table of Contents...
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Two Cable TV Boxes, or HP Personal Media Drive ....117 Two Digital Cable Receivers ......84 Installing an HP Personal Media Drive ....118 Satellite Connection ......86 Disconnecting an HP Personal Media Drive.... 119 One Satellite Receiver ........... 86 Two Satellite Receivers ..........
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Configuring the Keyboard Buttons ......141 Registering with HP..........141 Setting Up Virus Protection........142 Transferring Information from Your Old PC to Your HP Digital Entertainment Center..... 142 Installing Software ..........142 HP Settings Utility Program ........143 Table of Contents...
Before You Begin Welcome Thank you for purchasing the HP Digital Entertainment This User’s Guide helps you to set up the HP Digital Center. Your HP Digital Entertainment Center puts you in Entertainment Center to use with your audio/video control of your complete home entertainment experience.
View and edit your favorite digital photos. ■ Burn a DVD of your favorite TV shows or home ■ videos. Store your digital content on the HP Personal Media ■ Drive. Product features Sophisticated, sleek, stackable case fits into your Rear and front AV connectors: ■...
Functional Overview Front Panel The following illustration shows a typical HP Digital Entertainment Center front panel. Your model might not have all features. HP Personal Media Drive Bay CD/DVD HP Digital Entertainment Center AV inputs Media info display USB and card readers...
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Item Function Comments 9-in-1 memory card readers Card readers behind lower right door HP Digital Entertainment Center SmartMedia/xD, MMC/SD, LED: Green (with media inserted) SmartMedia / xD MMC / SD CompactFlash I/II, Microdrive, MS/MS-Pro Off (no media inserted) CompactFlash I/II...
Memory Card Reader The HP Digital Entertainment Center 9-in-1 card readers Two USB 2.0 connectors are also included. are on the front panel, located behind a door for quick transfer of digital photos and other digital content. Four horizontal card slots accept memory cards.
Back Panel The following illustration shows the HP Digital Entertainment Center back panel. (Location, availability, and number of connectors may vary.) AUDIO IN AUDIO 7.1 PRE-OUT VIDEO WIRELESS LAN 802.11 b/g SURROUND SURROUND CENTER FRONT REMOVABLE ANTENNA ACTIVITY BACK VIDEO...
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Item Connector Type Color Supported format Digital Audio Out Optical Gray S/PDIF 5.1 only OPTICAL DIGITAL AUDIO Video Out RCA jack Yellow Analog: Interlaced scan VIDEO (Composite) VIDEO S-VIDEO S-video Out Y/C video Black Analog: Interlaced scan VIDEO 4-pin Up to 1024 x 768 @ 60 Hz VIDEO S-VIDEO VGA Out...
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Up to 640 x 480 @ 60 Hz S-VIDEO models only) Infrared Transmitter 3.5 mm Silver Remote infrared (IR Blaster) INFRARED TRANSMITTER OUT Out (2 outputs) (1/8 inch) mini-jack AC In AC 110–240Vv Black Power 50–60 Hz 110-240V 50-60Hz AC IN HP Digital Entertainment Center...
Turn on connected equipment and the HP Digital Entertainment Center. Shipping the HP Digital Entertainment Center Keep the original packing box in a storage area. You may need it later if you move or ship your HP Digital Entertainment Center. Before You Begin...
Keyboard The following illustration shows the HP Digital Entertainment Center wireless keyboard. The actual keyboard may vary slightly in some countries/regions. Function keys TrackBall Left, right mouse button The following table shows the wireless keyboard features and function keys from left to right.
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Icon Item Description Messenger Opens your instant messaging program. Minimize Minimizes the Media Center application. Maximize Maximizes the Media Center application. Media Center Starts Media Center. Media Center Previous Selects previous media track. Play Plays media. Pause Pauses media. Next Selects next media track.
See “Configuring the Keyboard Buttons” on page 141. Refer to the Software Guide. Wireless Keyboard Operation Your HP Digital Entertainment Center includes a wireless On /Standby keyboard that uses a built-in receiver/transmitter instead of a connector cable to communicate. The Keyboard...
Make sure the HP Digital Entertainment Center is correctly! powered on. Test the keyboard. The keyboard is set to connect to the HP Digital Entertainment Center automatically. If the keyboard does not operate: Check the battery orientation. Sync the keyboard. See “Syncing the Keyboard”...
Remote Control Buttons (Features and location may vary. Refer to the specific documentation for other remote controls.) Standby Arrows Puts the HP Digital Buttons move the cursor to Entertainment Center into or navigate within all Media out of a power-reduced Center windows.
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Play Plays the selected media. PLAY DVD MENU TELETEXT Stop Stops the selected media. STOP (Fast-forward) Moves media forward (press button for three speeds). RECORD PLAY STOP W Skip Moves media forward — for SKIP example, 30 seconds in videos and PAUSE live TV, one music track, or one DVD REPLAY...
To use the remote control, just point it at the HP Digital Entertainment Center and press a button. Use the remote control at a maximum distance of 8 meters (26 feet) from 90˚...
Installing the Remote Control Batteries Slide the battery cover off the back of the remote DVD MENU control. RADIO MUSIC PICTURESVIDEOS RECORD PLAY STOP Insert the two AA alkaline batteries (provided). Make PAUSE REPLAY SKIP sure the battery positive and negative ends are inserted correctly! Replace the battery cover.
AC outlet HP Digital Entertainment Center. If you move to another before connecting it to the DSL/telephone line. Also, country/region, please make sure you check its voltage...
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Never pull on the cord — Disconnect the HP Digital Outdoor antenna grounding — If an outside Entertainment Center by grasping the plug firmly and antenna or cable system is connected to the product, be pulling it from the power outlet. Never disconnect the sure the antenna or cable system is grounded so as to HP Digital Entertainment Center by pulling the cord.
Installation Overview This chapter provides information on your system and describes how to connect your HP Digital Entertainment Chapter Contents: Center to your audio/video (AV) equipment in detail. You may find connection details that won’t be in the basic “System Audio/Video Connections” on page 22 Start Here booklet.
Entertainment Center from the comfort of your couch. TV, your TV signal (for example, from a satellite) must flow into the HP Digital Entertainment Center. Then, for you to How you connect the HP Digital Entertainment Center into watch live or recorded TV, the HP Digital Entertainment your system depends on how you want to use it.
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The following illustration shows the audio and video signal routed from the satellite or cable receiver source to the HP Digital Entertainment Center, then through an AV receiver to your TV: TV Source Audio Cable In Video Network Data Set-top-box Infrared...
Line Conditioner Choose Composite S-video Router/ Choose Firewall/ Switch DSL/Cable Modem MONITOR Cable or Satellite Set-top box 2 NOTE: Connect Set-top box 2 only Wall iPod Ext. HDD Digital Printer Digital (optional) Internet Camera Video Camcorder HP Digital Entertainment Center...
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Front Panel (Configurations may vary. Some cables are sold separately.) The following illustration shows a typical HP Digital Entertainment Center system front panel installation: Power CD/DVD HP Personal Player/Recorder Media Drive On /Standby HP Digital Entertainment Center KEYBOARD CONNECT FRONT INPUT...
Choosing an HP Digital Entertainment Center setup location 412.75 mm 16.25 in If you intend to connect your HP Digital Entertainment Center to your TV, a set-top box, or a surround sound 114.3 mm system, HP recommends that you choose a clear working 4.5 in...
Cabinet Front IMPORTANT: Use an open cabinet or shelves for best operation of the HP Digital Entertainment Center. Do not cover vents on top, back and sides of the unit. If you choose to use a cabinet with front doors, you must...
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(6.5 in) required for proper HP Digital minimum ventilation. Entertainment Center Wall Clearance The HP Digital Entertainment Center back panel must be at least 10.2 cm (4 inches) from the wall. 10.02 cm Cabinet (4 in) minimum HP Digital Entertainment Center...
Some peripheral devices, such as a digital video camera, HP Digital Entertainment Center. can be plugged into the connectors on the back panel or the front panel (behind lower doors) of the HP Digital Most of the hardware devices such as the monitor and Entertainment Center.
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Remote Control Batteries” on page 17. VCR or analog video camera. See “Connecting Video Equipment” on page 95. Place the HP Digital Entertainment Center on a flat, stable surface with the following clearances: Insert the removable hard disk drive (optional).
Inventory The following items are supplied with the HP Digital Entertainment Center: Name Picture Description HP Digital See “Functional Overview” on page 3. Entertainment HP Digital Entertainment Center Center unit Keyboard See “Keyboard” on page 10. Remote control See “Remote Control” on page 14.
Cables Included Your HP Digital Entertainment Center comes with the following cables and adapters. Cable Name Description Stereo RCA, red and white ends. Used for Audio Out. Coaxial digital audio S/PDIF. Used for Digital Audio Out. Video (Composite) RCA, yellow ends. Used for composite Video Out or TV Source In connector.
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Optional Cables Not Included You might need the following extra cables (these items are sold separately). Cable Name Max quantity Description Stereo and Video RCA: Red, white, yellow ends. Used for (Composite) TV Source In connector. Stereo RCA: Red and white ends. Used for Audio In/Out connectors.
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Audio Y adapters, mini-plug to 2 RCA-plugs ■ (for powered speakers). Connecting cables Observe the following guidelines: Do not plug in the HP Digital Entertainment Center Connect cables firmly to avoid hum and noise. ■ ■ until all connecting cables are installed.
Connecting Audio The HP Digital Entertainment Center supports many different audio options, sound connections, and speaker Chapter Contents: configurations. “Audio Overview” on page 36 This chapter describes the most typical, and some “Typical Audio Connection” on page 40 advanced, audio setup options for connecting Audio Out and Audio In.
Coaxial S/PDIF 5.1 only. COAXIAL Digital Audio See “Configuring Audio Output” on OPTICAL page 133. DIGITAL AUDIO Optical Gray Optical S/PDIF 5.1 only. COAXIAL Digital Audio See “Configuring Audio Output” on OPTICAL page 133. AUDIO DIGITAL HP Digital Entertainment Center...
Sound Connector Jacks The audio connectors are RCA-type jacks that connect from the back of your HP Digital Entertainment Center to a TV, powered speakers, or an AV receiver. The HP Digital Entertainment Center has separate Audio If your audio equipment has multiple input In connections (analog).
Speaker Configurations You can set up your HP Digital Entertainment Center for the following supported audio configurations: Speaker Home audio system system description Recommended arrangement See: 2 (stereo) Two speakers: Left “2.0 Home Stereo TV Display speaker, right speaker Installation” on...
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Speaker Home audio system system description Recommended arrangement See: Two front speakers: Left If your 6.1 AV receiver TV Display Subwoofer Center speaker, right speaker has only 5.1 (6) inputs, speaker see the following: Two side speakers: surround left speaker, “5.1 Home Theater surround right speaker Audio”...
Typical Audio Connection Select the configuration that most closely matches your home system. You can set up your HP Digital Entertainment Center for the following supported audio configurations: Audio system Description See: TV, monitor or display direct audio “TV Audio Connection” on page 41...
TV Audio Connection You can connect your TV, monitor, or display audio If your TV has multiple inputs, you can use your TV as a directly to your HP Digital Entertainment Center for switch for audio and video. two-speaker sound.
You can also use a digital connection. “Digital Home Theater Audio” on page 48 AV Receiver Equipment Overview You can connect audio and video from the HP Digital Use the 2.1 configuration for multichannel AV receivers Entertainment Center, through an AV receiver, to the TV that have only left and right audio inputs.
2.0 Home Stereo Installation The following diagram shows a typical two-channel (2.0) This is only a suggested configuration. Your system may speaker installation that uses passive stereo speakers be different. connected through a home stereo standard left and right AV receiver/amplifier audio input connectors may be input.
Use this configuration for multichannel AV case, you do not need to connect the receivers that only have left and right audio inputs. subwoofer output from the HP Digital AV receiver/amplifier audio input connectors may be Entertainment Center. Refer to your AV labeled CD, DVD, or DVD In.
AV receiver/amplifier audio input connectors may be case, you do not need to connect the labeled Surround, 4.1 or 4 Channel inputs, CD, DVD, subwoofer output from the HP Digital or DVD In. Entertainment Center. Refer to your AV receiver product documentation.
TUNER S-VIDEO COMPONENT AC IN WOOFER TV SOURCE 2 IN COAXIAL 10/ 100/ 1000 AUDIO S-VIDEO INFRARED TRANSMITTER OUT OPTICAL AUDIO DIGITAL HI SPEED USB 2.0 1394 ETHERNET DIGITAL VIDEO OUT 5.1 multichannel audio system connection HP Digital Entertainment Center...
7.1 Home Theater Audio The following diagram shows a typical advanced home AV receiver audio input connectors may be labeled theater audio eight-channel (7.1) speaker installation that Surround, 7.1 or 8 Channel inputs, DVD, Ext. In, or requires multichannel inputs on an AV receiver. Multichannel Inputs.
Output” on page 133 and note your speaker Connect the Digital Audio Out connector on the back configuration choice for later software setup panel of your HP Digital Entertainment Center to the steps. Digital Input (S/PDIF) on your AV receiver or digital audio system.
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Recommended DIGITAL AUDIO IN for best digital Coaxial Optical audio experience 5.1 Channel AV Receiver Choose one WIRELESS LAN 802.11 b/g AUDIO IN AUDIO 7.1 PRE-OUT VIDEO SURROUND SURROUND CENTER FRONT REMOVABLE ANTENNA ACTIVITY BACK VIDEO LINK TV SOURCE 1 IN TV ANTENNA IN FM ANTENNA IN Ω...
Powered Speaker Audio Connection You can connect active (powered) speakers directly to your HP Digital Entertainment Center. An active speaker Select the configuration that most closely system must have its own power cord. matches your home system. See: You may need Y adapter cables (sold separately).
Connect the RCA connector end of the Y adapter Turn on the speaker system. cable (sold separately) to the Front Right and Front Left Audio Out connectors on the back of your HP Digital Entertainment Center. Subwoofer AUDIO IN AUDIO 7.1 PRE-OUT...
Plug in the speaker system power. Refer to the cables (sold separately) to the Audio Out connectors speaker documentation. Front Right, Front Left, Surround Right, and Surround Left on the back of your HP Digital Entertainment Turn on the speaker system. Center. Subwoofer AUDIO IN AUDIO 7.1 PRE-OUT...
Connect the RCA connector end of the Y adapter speaker documentation. cables (sold separately) to the Audio Out connectors Front Right, Front Left, Surround Right, Surround Left, Turn on the speaker system. and Center on the back of your HP Digital Entertainment Center. Subwoofer Center Speaker AUDIO IN AUDIO 7.1 PRE-OUT...
7.1 Powered Speakers You can install a 7.1 audio system to your HP Digital Plug in the speaker system power. Refer to the Entertainment Center. speaker documentation. To connect two front speakers, two surround speakers, Turn on the speaker system.
You can install a digital audio system with up to two front speakers, two surround speakers, two surround back speakers, a center speaker, and a subwoofer to your HP Digital Entertainment Center. Some powered speakers can generate Do not connect analog multichannel speaker outputs if (upmix) the 7.1 audio with 5.1 input...
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Plug in the speaker system power. Refer to the Connect a digital audio coaxial or optical cable to speaker documentation. a Digital Audio Out connector on the back of your HP Digital Entertainment Center. Turn on the speaker system. DIGITAL AUDIO IN...
Monitor Speakers You can connect powered monitor speakers directly to your HP Digital Entertainment Center. You may need Y adapter cables. You can: Monitor speaker configurations and connections may vary. Your system may be Connect simple left/right stereo 2.0 powered ■...
The Audio In connection can be used in conjunction with theater audio equipment, such as a tape player or sound recording software (application software sold turntable, to your HP Digital Entertainment Center using separately) to record audio from other external the Audio In stereo connectors on the back panel.
FM Radio Antenna The HP Digital Entertainment Center includes an FM radio The following diagram shows typical FM antenna tuner. connections: To connect the FM radio antenna: Indoor antenna ■ Plug the FM radio antenna cable into the FM (Tuner) Rooftop antenna (sold separately) ■...
Connecting Video Out This chapter describes how to connect the HP Digital Entertainment Center to a TV or display monitor, so you Chapter Contents: can watch TV and view the screen. It includes the most typical, and some advanced, video output options.
Use S-video ■ a video cable to connect the Video Out on the HP Digital Entertainment Center to your TV Video In. These cables ■ are included in the box. You may need other or ■...
Video Out Connectors (Location, availability, and number of connectors may vary. Some cables are sold separately.) AUDIO IN AUDIO 7.1 PRE-OUT VIDEO WIRELESS LAN 802.11 b/g SURROUND SURROUND CENTER FRONT REMOVABLE ANTENNA ACTIVITY BACK VIDEO LINK TV SOURCE 1 IN TV ANTENNA IN FM ANTENNA IN Ω...
TV Display Overview The HP Digital Entertainment Center allows you to You must manually set up dual displays. Only connect to a TV to view the monitor image on a TV either the TV or monitor, not both, will display after initial screen.
Using the Remote Control with Your TV You can use the HP Digital Entertainment Center remote The HP Digital Entertainment Center includes one or two control to change channels and adjust volume if you have Infrared Transmitter cables (IR blaster) that are required to a cable box or satellite receiver, have installed the control one or two set-top boxes.
Select the configuration that most Entertainment Center into your home system so you can closely matches your home system. watch TV. You may set up your HP Digital Entertainment Center for the following supported configurations: Display/video configuration See: From HP Digital Entertainment Center to TV through a “Video Out to TV”...
Configuration: You can adjust the TV display, after initial turn on, using the Media Center software. See “Initial Configuration” on page 121. Procedure: Connect a video cable from the HP Digital Entertainment Center back panel Video Out directly to the TV Video In.
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S-VIDEO COMPONENT AC IN WOOFER TV SOURCE 2 IN COAXIAL 10/ 100/ 1000 AUDIO S-VIDEO INFRARED TRANSMITTER OUT OPTICAL AUDIO DIGITAL HI SPEED USB 2.0 1394 ETHERNET DIGITAL VIDEO OUT Video out to high-definition capable HDTV HP Digital Entertainment Center...
AV receiver switches video and has the correct connections. This method gives you the best audio Connect a video cable from the HP Digital quality, and you can easily switch audio/video inputs Entertainment Center back panel Video Out to the through your AV receiver remote.
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TUNER S-VIDEO COMPONENT AC IN WOOFER TV SOURCE 2 IN COAXIAL 10/ 100/ 1000 AUDIO S-VIDEO INFRARED TRANSMITTER OUT OPTICAL AUDIO DIGITAL HI SPEED USB 2.0 1394 ETHERNET DIGITAL VIDEO OUT TV Out (through AV receiver) HP Digital Entertainment Center...
Equipment: The monitor and some cables may not be your monitor, you can use your monitor as an audio/ included with the HP Digital Entertainment Center. See the video switch. You will probably not be able to use a documentation that came with your monitor.
If the S-video and Video (composite) Video Out connections are not connected You can use the following combinations to connect your to a TV or video input when the HP Digital TV and monitor: Entertainment Center is turned on, the S-video and composite jacks will turn off automatically.
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If your TV or monitor has multiple input connections, select the correct input on the TV or monitor. MONITOR IN TV IN S-video Video Choose one Choose one AUDIO IN AUDIO 7.1 PRE-OUT VIDEO WIRELESS LAN 802.11 b/g SURROUND SURROUND CENTER FRONT REMOVABLE ANTENNA...
Transmitter cable installation is also included. “TV Source Overview” on page 76 “Typical TV Source Connections” on page 79 You connect the HP Digital Entertainment Center to an existing setup for your TV signal source. This chapter “Antenna Connection” on page 80 includes the most typical, and some advanced, input “Satellite Connection”...
TV Source Overview TV Signal Source Overview You must connect a TV signal to the HP Digital The back panel TV Source connectors are: Entertainment Center for proper operation. TV Source 1 In ■ TV Source 2 In (select models only) ■...
Coaxial (RF) If your set-top box has an S-video jack, you need an ■ ■ S-video cable to connect the HP Digital Entertainment Video (composite) ■ Center to your set-top box. An S-video cable S-video ■...
TV SOURCE 2 (Select models only) Red: Right AUDIO S-video TV Source 2 In Y/C video Black 2 IN (select models only) Analog 4-pin S-VIDEO Infrared Transmitter Out 2 ports: 3.5 Silver mm (1/8 inch) mini-jacks HP Digital Entertainment Center...
Typical TV Source Connections These are only suggested configurations. Your system may be different. Select the configuration that most closely matches your home system: Display/video TV source type configuration Connector See: Antenna From antenna TV Antenna In “Antenna” on page 80 Cable Cable directly from the wall TV Antenna In...
TV ANTENNA IN your external or internal TV antenna into the TV Antenna In connector on the back of DUAL TUNER the HP Digital Entertainment Center. Gently push the connector to ensure a good connection. Coaxial AUDIO IN AUDIO 7.1 PRE-OUT...
Gently push the connector to ensure a good TV ANTENNA IN your TV cable (wall) into the Cable/Ant connection. connector on the back of the HP Digital DUAL TUNER Entertainment Center. This connection supplies the TV signal source for both TV tuners.
S-video ■ Connect the video cable from the set-top box or digital cable receiver back panel Video Output connector. Connect the video cable into the HP Digital Entertainment Center back panel TV Source 1 In connector. HP Digital Entertainment Center...
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Cable From Wall Coaxial Set-top box 1 Infrared Transmitter Choose one Video S-video Coaxial TV Source 1 AUDIO IN AUDIO 7.1 PRE-OUT VIDEO WIRELESS LAN 802.11 b/g SURROUND SURROUND CENTER FRONT REMOVABLE ANTENNA ACTIVITY BACK VIDEO LINK TV SOURCE 1 IN TV ANTENNA IN FM ANTENNA IN Ω...
Connect the video cable into the HP Digital digital cable receivers or two cable TV boxes (sold Entertainment Center back panel TV Source 1 In separately), from the same TV source and the HP Digital connector. Entertainment Center dual-tuner option (select models Connect stereo audio cables for set-top box 1 (skip only) to set this up.
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Connect the set-top box 1 Infrared Transmitter cable Connect the set-top box 2 Infrared Transmitter cable (required for signal). See “Infrared Transmitter (required for signal). See “Infrared Transmitter Connection” on page 90. Connection” on page 90. Cable From Wall Cable From Wall Coaxial Coaxial Source 1...
■ Video (composite) ■ S-video ■ Connect the video cable from the satellite receiver back panel video output connector. Connect the video cable into the HP Digital Entertainment Center back panel TV Source 1 In connector. HP Digital Entertainment Center...
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Satellite Receiver Coaxial Infrared Transmitter Choose one TV Source 1 Video S-video Coaxial AUDIO IN AUDIO 7.1 PRE-OUT VIDEO WIRELESS LAN 802.11 b/g SURROUND SURROUND CENTER FRONT REMOVABLE ANTENNA ACTIVITY BACK VIDEO LINK TV SOURCE 1 IN TV ANTENNA IN FM ANTENNA IN Ω...
You must have two identical satellite receivers from the Connect a video cable for satellite receiver 2: same source and the HP Digital Entertainment Center Choose a video out connector, use the same type dual-tuner option (select models only) to set this up. This...
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Source 1 Source 2 Coaxial (RF) Satellite Receiver 2 Satellite Receiver 1 Infrared Transmitter VIDEO OUT VIDEO OUT Note: Connect same set-top box only Choose one Choose one Video S-video Video S-video AUDIO IN AUDIO 7.1 PRE-OUT VIDEO WIRELESS LAN 802.11 b/g SURROUND SURROUND...
If you connect a set-top box such as a digital cable commands from your cable box remote control or from box or a satellite receiver to the HP Digital Entertainment the Infrared Transmitter cable. The remote receiver is Center, then you must also use the Infrared (IR) Transmitter sometimes hidden behind a panel of dark, transparent control cable.
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Set-top box 1 Infrared Transmitter AUDIO IN AUDIO 7.1 PRE-OUT VIDEO WIRELESS LAN 802.11 b/g SURROUND SURROUND CENTER FRONT REMOVABLE ANTENNA ACTIVITY BACK VIDEO LINK TV SOURCE 1 IN TV ANTENNA IN FM ANTENNA IN Ω DUAL 100-240V- 4/A 50/60Hz AUDIO VIDEO S-VIDEO...
Plug the Infrared Transmitter cable into the Infrared Route the Infrared Transmitter cable from the back of Transmitter connector on the back of the HP Digital the HP Digital Entertainment Center to the cable TV, Entertainment Center.
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The following illustration shows the Infrared Transmitter installation. Cable or Satellite Set-top box Attach Remove tape to IR window Infrared Transmitter AUDIO IN AUDIO 7.1 PRE-OUT VIDEO WIRELESS LAN 802.11 b/g SURROUND SURROUND CENTER FRONT REMOVABLE ANTENNA ACTIVITY BACK VIDEO LINK TV SOURCE 1 IN TV ANTENNA IN FM ANTENNA IN...
Connecting Video Equipment This chapter describes how to connect video playback and recording equipment to the HP Digital Entertainment Chapter Contents: Center. Equipment includes VCRs and camcorders. This chapter also includes the most typical, and some “Video Equipment Overview” on page 96 advanced, options.
S-video TV Source 2 In Analog: Black 2 IN (Select models only) Y/C video 4-pin Use S-video to composite adapter (optional) S-VIDEO to connect composite video Additional cables and the S-video to composite adapter are sold separately. HP Digital Entertainment Center...
1394 You may need other or additional cables, depending on your video equipment. DVD player The HP Digital Entertainment Center has a built-in DVD player/recorder. The HP Digital Entertainment Center is Connect video game boxes directly to intended for legal purposes only and not your TV.
Typical Video Equipment Connections This section describes how to connect the HP Digital These are only suggested configurations. Your system Entertainment Center to an existing setup of your video may be different. equipment. Select the configuration that most closely matches your...
VCR Connection VCR Direct In Connection You can connect a VCR to record your tapes to the HP Digital Entertainment Center hard disk drive. The HP Digital Entertainment Center is intended for legal purposes only. Some retail VHS tapes have content protection measures that do not allow recording.
Connect one coaxial cable to the input of the VCR. Coaxial Connect one coaxial cable to the TV Source 1 in back of the HP Digital Entertainment Center. Set-top box Connect a coaxial cable from the VCR out to one of the TV inputs.
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10/ 100/ 1000 AUDIO S-VIDEO INFRARED TRANSMITTER OUT OPTICAL AUDIO DIGITAL HI SPEED USB 2.0 1394 ETHERNET DIGITAL VIDEO OUT Wall to VCR to TV using coaxial cable (Add the HP Digital Entertainment Center with a splitter) Connecting Video Equipment...
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TV SOURCE 2 IN COAXIAL 10/ 100/ 1000 AUDIO S-VIDEO INFRARED TRANSMITTER OUT OPTICAL AUDIO DIGITAL HI SPEED USB 2.0 1394 ETHERNET DIGITAL VIDEO OUT Wall to set-top box VCR to TV using coaxial cable (add with a splitter) HP Digital Entertainment Center...
Turn on the HP Digital Entertainment Center, and wait or 6-pin FireWire (IEEE 1394) connector on the back for the desktop to appear. See “Initial Configuration” panel of the HP Digital Entertainment Center to connect a on page 121. digital video camera. This connector is bi-directional.
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On /Standby HP Digital Entertainment Center DV IN 4-Pin FireWire Cable Digital (IEEE 1394) Video Camcorder Connect a digital video camcorder (front panel) AUDIO IN AUDIO 7.1 PRE-OUT VIDEO WIRELESS LAN 802.11 b/g SURROUND SURROUND CENTER FRONT REMOVABLE ANTENNA ACTIVITY...
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Recognizing the digital video camcorder If the HP Digital Entertainment Center does not recognize Click the plus sign (+) next to imaging devices. If the your digital video camera: name of the camera appears under imaging devices the device is ready. If the name is not there, try the Start up the HP Digital Entertainment Center.
Turn on the HP Digital Entertainment Center, and wait the HP Digital Entertainment Center, use the Video and for the desktop to appear. See “Initial Configuration” Audio In connectors on the front of the HP Digital on page 121. Entertainment Center.
■ “Connecting Through a Router” on page 114 You can connect your peripheral devices to work with the HP Digital Entertainment Center through USB or FireWire “USB Device Connection” on page 115 (IEEE 1394) connectors. “Connecting an HP Personal Media Drive” on...
Peripheral Connection Overview Front Panel (Location, availability, and number of connectors may vary.) HP Personal Media Drive Bay HP Digital Entertainment Center USB and card readers 1394 input/output Connector Name Description Behind Upper Right Door Removable hard disk HP Personal Media Drive Bay...
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Back Panel (Location, availability, and number of connectors may vary. Some cables are sold separately.) AUDIO IN AUDIO 7.1 PRE-OUT VIDEO WIRELESS LAN 802.11 b/g SURROUND SURROUND CENTER FRONT REMOVABLE ANTENNA ACTIVITY BACK VIDEO LINK TV SOURCE 1 IN TV ANTENNA IN FM ANTENNA IN Ω...
Typical Network Connections This section describes how to connect the HP Digital These are only suggested configurations. Your system Entertainment Center to the Internet, so you can may be different. download the Television Program Guide and surf Select the configuration that most closely matches your the Web.
Connecting the Wireless Network Antenna You can connect the HP Digital Entertainment Center to a A wireless access point and a wireless router are required 802.11 b/g wireless network. The transceiver is built in and sold separately. Wireless Internet use requires a to the HP Digital Entertainment Center.
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You may want to move the end of the antenna away To connect a Wi-Fi antenna to the HP Digital from the HP Digital Entertainment Center to improve Entertainment Center: your signal reception. Screw the antenna into the Wireless LAN Removable...
Connecting a DSL/Cable Modem To connect the HP Digital Entertainment Center to the Internet, through an existing DSL or cable modem AUDIO IN AUDIO 7.1 PRE-OUT VIDEO WIRELESS LAN 802.11 b/g SURROUND SURROUND CENTER FRONT REMOVABLE ANTENNA BACK ACTIVITY VIDEO...
TV ANTENNA IN FM ANTENNA IN DUAL Ω 100-240V- 4/A 50/60Hz AUDIO VIDEO S-VIDEO TUNER COAXIAL can use your HP Digital Entertainment Center as a client if S-VIDEO COMPONENT AC IN WOOFER TV SOURCE 2 IN COAXIAL 10/ 100/ 1000 AUDIO S-VIDEO you already have a home network functioning.
On /Standby cameras. When connecting a digital still camera, use a USB HP Digital Entertainment Center connector on the front or back of the HP Digital Entertainment Center. USB 2.0 To connect a digital still camera: Turn on the HP Digital Entertainment Center. Wait for the desktop to appear.
Printer Digital camera iPod To connect the HP Personal Media Drive to the HP Digital USB device connection (back panel) Entertainment Center through a USB, see the documentation that came with the HP Personal Media Drive. HP Digital Entertainment Center...
Connecting an HP Personal Media Drive The HP Digital Entertainment Center front panel includes a drive bay that houses the HP Personal Media Drive (drive included with select models only). The drive bay has an internal USB port and power connector.
Installing an HP Personal Media Drive To connect an HP Personal Media Drive to the HP Digital Line up the ridges on the bottom of the drive with the Entertainment Center: two slots on the bottom of the drive bay.
Disconnecting an HP Personal Media Drive You can safely remove the HP Personal Media Drive when Select the HP Personal Media Drive, and then both the amber activity and blue power LEDs are off. click OK. This name of the drive may appear as Generic Volume, followed by the assigned drive letter.
Initial Configuration This chapter describes how to set up your HP Digital Entertainment Center software, including how to Chapter Contents: configure the HP Digital Entertainment Center for proper operation. “Starting the HP Digital Entertainment Center for the First Time” on page 122 When you complete the procedures in this chapter, you “Windows Welcome”...
Starting the HP Digital Entertainment Center for the First Time Turn power on to all connected devices such as TV and audio equipment before turning on the HP Digital To set up your system: Entertainment Center. Power on only after you have completed the full setup.
After you have connected the equipment, you are ready Press the On/Standby (power) button on the front to turn on the system. of the HP Digital Entertainment Center. The system starts. Make sure the video and audio cables are connected before you turn on the TV and the Power On HP Digital Entertainment Center.
Connect button flashes and stops, indicating a If the keyboard does not operate, you must synchronize successful sync. the keyboard with the HP Digital Entertainment Center. Important: If you press the button twice, you will To sync the keyboard: need to repeat steps 1 through 4.
Windows Welcome The system starts and displays the initial Select Automatic Updates. Click Next. ® ® Microsoft Windows setup screen for the first power Name your system. Click Next. on only. You will need the keyboard to navigate the screens. Select Finish.
Media Center setup is completed. The wizard includes steps for your network Follow the onscreen instructions for the initial or broadband connections. Connect the HP Digital Media Center startup wizard. These instructions Entertainment Center to your wired network or...
Choose the number of speakers you have. You can Set up speakers. ■ also test the speakers. Teach the HP Digital Entertainment Center to control ■ If you selected 5.1 or 7.1 speakers, or if you are your cable TV or satellite receiver set-top box.
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Click Next. ■ See “Tuning the Desktop ■ Display” on page 139. Do not select the option Preview Automatic Adjustment. DVI or Continue using the wizard because the wizard can adjust your TV display. HP Digital Entertainment Center...
■ ■ Adjusting the Front Panel Display Brightness You can adjust the brightness of the HP Digital Change the front panel brightness. Entertainment Center front panel media info display. Set adjustment for manual or automatic. Automatic This setting does not control the brightness of the...
Configuring Audio You may have to optimize your HP Digital Entertainment Center audio configuration to get the best sound on your Select the configuration that most closely audio system. matches your home system. See: “Connecting Headphones” on page 130 “Connecting a Microphone” on page 130 “Adjusting the Volume”...
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Selecting recording devices To select a sound recording device: In the Sound Recording area, click the Volume button, and then choose the source for sound Click Start on the taskbar. recording. Choose Control Panel. Click OK. Click Sounds and Audio Devices (or Sounds, Close the window.
Some applications may play back at low volume, even Volume cannot be controlled from the when the volume knob is turned to the maximum position. HP Digital Entertainment Center remote If this is the case, double-click the Volume icon on the control if the S/PDIF digital audio out taskbar and increase the volume.
You must adjust the audio settings in two places after you The following table shows which procedures to perform have installed and connected the HP Digital Entertainment for your audio system. If you set up speakers using the Center to your audio system.
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If you have a digital audio connection, Press Media Center on the remote control. select S/PDIF. You can also click Start on the taskbar, and Click Save. select Media Center. Click Settings, DVD, Audio, and then Configuration. HP Digital Entertainment Center...
Configuring Video You may have to optimize your HP Digital Entertainment Center video configuration to get the best image on your Select the configuration that most closely TV/display screen. matches your home system. See: “Configuring Video Output” on page 135 “Dual screen”...
HP Digital Entertainment Center desktop appears on the See “Viewing the screen image on a second display” next device. If Alt+F5 does not work, restart the HP Digital on page 136. Entertainment Center and try again.
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TV corner. It becomes green. Then click the monitor corner so it is red. Click Apply. When the HP Digital Entertainment Center image appears on the TV screen, click Yes to keep the setting. You have 15 seconds to accept this new setting before it reverts to the previous setting.
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Disabling the dual screen option When you want to disconnect the TV from the HP Digital Click the Displays tab. Entertainment Center, you may need to disable the TV The monitors and TVs are shown. The upper-left option to return your HP Digital Entertainment Center corner of each display icon is a button and a status display to its original resolution.
Adjusting the Desktop Display Some tasks on the HP Digital Entertainment Center require At the Settings tab, select the resolution that that you leave Media Center and use the Windows XP provides the best viewing. desktop. Because Windows XP is not specifically This window is easier to read on a monitor.
“Configuring the Keyboard Buttons” on page 141 “Registering with HP” on page 141 “Setting Up Virus Protection” on page 142 “Transferring Information from Your Old PC to Your HP Digital Entertainment Center” on page 142 “Installing Software” on page 142 “HP Settings Utility Program”...
To register with HP to receive changes, updates, and Follow onscreen instructions, using the keyboard and support: trackball. You can also register with HP in the following ways: Press Media Center on the remote control. Double-click the registration icon on your desktop, ■...
HP Digital Entertainment Center. Installing Software After you turn on the HP Digital Entertainment Center the Choose software that is compatible with your HP Digital first time and then restart it, you can install any additional Entertainment Center;...
HP Settings Utility Program HP provides special utility programs in the HP Digital To use Media Center utility programs: Entertainment Center Media Center that configure the desktop display, adjust front panel brightness, and setup Press Media Center on the remote control.
Troubleshooting This section contains possible solutions for some problems you may be experiencing with the HP Digital Chapter Contents: Entertainment Center. To solve audio problems, see “Audio” on page 146. To solve video problems, see “Video” on page 148. To solve system problems, see “System” on page 150.
Reinstall the sound card drivers by using Application Recovery. See the Warranty ■ and Support Guide that came with your HP Digital Entertainment Center. Check volume and mute settings. See “Adjusting the Volume” on page 132. I have low volume ■...
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■ make any sound. remote control. Press the Mute button on the HP Digital Entertainment Center keyboard or on the ■ remote control to see if the Mute feature is turned on. Use the keyboard controls to increase the volume.
Check that the correct input source is selected on the TV. ■ I am using a TV with the HP Digital Check that the TV is connected to the HP Digital Entertainment Center. See “Video ■ Entertainment Out to TV” on page 67.
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Make sure that the batteries for the remote control are charged and installed ■ correctly. Make sure the front of the remote sensor on the HP Digital Entertainment Center is ■ not blocked (behind display window). Point the remote control at the HP Digital Entertainment Center (not at the TV) ■...
Find the description that most closely matches your problem, and try the corresponding solution. Problem Solution When you press the On button on the front of the HP Digital Entertainment ■ My HP Digital Center, the following events should happen: Entertainment Center won’t turn on at all.
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If the HP Digital Entertainment Center shows no response to trackball or ■ the HP Digital keyboard actions, reset the HP Digital Entertainment Center: Entertainment Press and hold the On button for more than 4 seconds until the HP Digital Center is not Entertainment Center turns off. recommended and should be Wait a few seconds, and turn the HP Digital Entertainment Center back on.
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Click OK and then on the Buttons tab, click Apply. Repeat steps 5 through 7 for each button you want to configure. Click OK when you are finished configuring the keyboard. Make sure the keyboard syncs with the HP Digital Entertainment Center. See ■ My keyboard or the “Syncing the Keyboard”...
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CD, follow the instructions that came with the software to reinstall it. I cannot remove a You cannot remove a CD or DVD after you have turned off the HP Digital CD or DVD. Entertainment Center. Turn on the HP Digital Entertainment Center, and press the Eject button to extend the tray.
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Remove the memory card when the light is not flashing, and shine a flashlight ■ into the empty slot. If any of the pins are bent, have the HP Digital Entertainment Center serviced if a pin is touching another pin.
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You can put data files on a DVD to store them or transfer them to another My DVD won’t play. ■ HP Digital Entertainment Center. However, data files on a DVD do not play in a DVD player. Rerecord your files to a file format that can be read by some DVD players.
Press the Help button on your keyboard (the ? button). The Help and Support Center is onscreen Help information about your HP Digital Entertainment Center. Here you can find: Start Media Center. Click the Help (?) icon at Links to reinstall drivers.
Warranty and Support Guide See the HP Digital Entertainment Center Warranty and HP Web site Online Guide addresses ■ Support Guide, included with the documentation, for Application and System Recovery programs ■ detailed information on: The terms of your HP limited warranty ■...
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HP Technical Support You can get help over the telephone from HP. When you See the keyboard or the Warranty and Support Guide for call HP Technical Support, have your model number and the support telephone numbers. serial number available.
(not available in all countries/regions). You must be connected to the Internet to receive these updates. If Click Start, choose All Programs, and then you have turned off the Updates from HP feature, you will PC Help & Tools. not receive these updates.
Replace the internal hard disk drive only if it has failed. Before you begin to replace the internal hard disk drive: Do not replace the internal hard disk drive until HP support has diagnosed it as the point of failure. HP...
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Removal To remove the internal hard disk drive: Disconnect the hard disk drive cables. Turn the HP Digital Entertainment Center upside down. Remove the hard disk drive cover from the chassis. After loosening the screw, slide the hard disk drive in the direction of the screw.
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Replacement To replace the internal hard disk drive: Place the hard disk drive into the chassis. Position the metal tabs. Replace the old hard disk drive with the new hard disk drive. Replace the hard disk drive screws. Tighten the screws an additional half-turn only after the screws contact the rubber washer.
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Turn the HP Digital Entertainment Center right Test the HP Digital Entertainment Center for proper side up. operation. Reconnect the power cable and all other cables to Recover your system using the recovery disk. the HP Digital Entertainment Center. Restore your data.
Index Numerics application and system recovery 158 audio 1000BaseT (Ethernet connection) 110 7.1 Pre-Out 6 100BaseT (Ethernet connection) 110 A/Video setup (illustrated) 23 1394 (FireWire) 7, 103 additional equipment 34 2.0 multichannel audio system 43 Audio In connection 58 Audio Out connection 133 home stereo installation 43, 44 configuration 130 multichannel audio system 44...
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44 center channel output 6 powered speakers 51 changing screens (dual display) 136 4.1 speaker system clearances, space for HP Digital Entertainment Center 30 passive speakers 45 cloning (dual displays) 136 powered speakers 52 codec errors 154 5.1 speaker system...
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DVD player 97 using the Web 157 FM radio 59 game boxes 97 data headphones 130 files on DVDs, troubleshooting 155 HP personal media drive 118 lost ii microphone 130 transferring PC data 142 monitor speakers 57 desktop peripherals 108...
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DVDs 97 running out of disk space 155 settings 133 troubleshooting 155 troubleshooting 155 hardware test, for HP Digital Entertainment Center 156 using with Media Center 134 headphones DVI (video output connector) 7 connecting 130 location of output on front panel 4...
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118, 143 IR Blaster HP Settings utility program 143 See: infrared transmitter HP Support 156 irrecoverable data loss ii HP Technical Support, contacting by telephone 158 HP Web site 157 keyboard batteries (initial) 122 image retention 140 buttons 141...
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PDA 116 MP3 player 116 peripheral devices 108, 116 MS/MS-Pro 5 Personal Media Drive MultiMediaCard 5 See: HP Personal Media Drive multiple audio/video inputs 67 phono mixer 58 pixels 139 Placement 27 plasma TVs, preventing image retention 140 HP Digital Entertainment Center...
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(On/Standby) button 10, 123 CD/DVD 153 outage, recovery from 151 HP Personal Media Drive 117, 119 powered speakers 50, 57 replacing preventing image retention 140 batteries printer keyboard 13 connecting 116 remote control 17 troubleshooting 150 hard drive 161, 162, 163...
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29 starting the HP Digital Entertainment Center for the first time 122 signal subwoofer conversion 77 digital speaker setup 55 source 76 monitor speaker installation 57 single-tuner 76 output (illustrated) 6 SmartMedia (SM) 5 support for HP Digital Entertainment Center 156...
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139 system connections using Media Center 129 antenna 8, 80 transfer wizard 142 audio connections 41 transferring data from PC to HP Digital Entertainment configuring with Media Center 127 Center 142 disconnecting 138 troubleshooting display 128...
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Web address digital cameras and camcorders 103 HP Customer Support 157 FireWire 4 Media Center information 159 typical configuration 98 registering your HP Digital Entertainment Center 141 connectors (illustrated) 96 Wi-Fi 112 display flickering 151 Windows setup screen 125 output...