Performing a Hard Reset or Forced Reset

Print Share Feedback

This document pertains to HP Notebook computers. A hard or forced reset erases all information in the computer's memory which may restore functionality. Resetting your computer forces the system to clear and reestablish the software connections between the BIOS and the hardware. Performing a hard or forced reset might fix the following conditions:

Windows stops responding. Computer stops before Windows loads - no boot, blinking cursor on a black display, and errors relating to OS not found or a missing drive. Display suddenly goes blank and stays blank. Software freezes. Keyboard stops responding. The computer does not return from sleep or suspend mode. An external device stops responding. (Turn off the power to that device in addition to performing the steps in this document.)

When performing a hard reset, you must disconnect or remove all peripheral devices. You should start and test the computer by itself, and then reconnect one peripheral device at a time. To resolve the start up or operational problem, run HP Support Assistant, or manually install all updated drivers from Microsoft and HP. Before beginning, turn the computer over and look for a battery compartment door. If there is no battery compartment, use the steps in the sealed or non-removable battery section. Reset a notebook with a removable battery To perform a hard reset on a computer with a removable battery, use the following steps: 1. Turn off the computer. 2. Remove the computer from any port replicator or docking station. 3. Disconnect all external connected peripheral devices such as USB storage devices, external displays, and printers. 4. Unplug the AC adapter from the computer.

5. Remove the battery from the battery compartment. 6. Press and hold down the Power button for about 15 seconds to drain any residual electrical charge from the capacitors that protect the memory. 7. Insert the battery and plug the AC adapter back into the notebook computer, but do not connect any of the peripheral devices. 8. Press the Power button to turn on the computer. 9. If a startup menu opens, use the arrow keys to select Start Windows Normally , and then press the Enter key. 10. After reconnecting each of the peripheral devices, run Windows Update and HP Support Assistant to update all device drivers. Reset a notebook with a sealed or non-removable battery

NOTE:You should not attempt to remove a sealed battery as doing so can void your warranty. 1. Turn off the computer. 2. Remove the computer from any port replicator or docking station. 3. Disconnect all external connected peripheral devices such as USB storage devices, external displays, and printers. 4. Unplug the AC adapter from the computer. 5. Perform the key press for your computer model using the instructions in the following table.

NOTE:The designated button combination varies by model and production date. If your computer is not listed below, see the User Guide for your specific model for the proper button combination. Common Model Name Typically Designated Button Combination

HP Envy 17 2D and 3D

Press and hold the Power and the Beats buttons for 8-10 seconds.

HP Envy 15-3000 series

Press and hold the Power and the Beats buttons for 8-10 seconds.

HP Folio 13

Press and hold the Power button for 8-10 seconds.

HP Envy 14 SPECTRE

Press and hold the Power and the Mute buttons (on the right side of the palm rest) for 8-10 seconds.

HP Envy 4

Press and hold the Power button for 8-10 seconds.

HP Envy 6

Press and hold the Power button for 8-10 seconds.

HP Envy Spectre XT

Press and hold the Power button for 8-10 seconds.

HP Envy x2

Press and hold the Power button for 8-10 seconds.

6. Plug the AC adapter back into the notebook computer, but do not connect any of the peripheral devices. 7. Press the Power button to turn on the computer. 8. If a startup menu opens, use the arrow keys to select Start Windows Normally , and then press the Enter key. 9. After reconnecting each of the peripheral devices, run Windows Update and HP Support Assistant to update all device drivers.