Some of our students are provided "Desktop" computers instead of a laptop. This guide will show you exactly how to set up one of these devices (specifically one of our "DL" HP Desktops).
This is an example of what the end setup should look like.
In your shipment you should have received these items. The HP Desktop Mini, an HP monitor as well as a TP-Link WiFi adapter (the specific model of each may differ from what is pictured here).
First we will set up the Monitor. Take it out of the packaging. There should be two cables included. On the right underside of the back of monitor should be a port that looks like this. This looks like HDMI but it's slightly different (it is technically a "DisplayPort" but it functionally is the same as HDMI). It can only be plugged in one orientation, so make sure the clip/arrow is pointing towards the back of the monitor.
On the left side of the monitor is a power cable port. Plug the included power cable into this port.
Once both of those cables are plugged in the monitor is ready.
Now lets move onto the HP Desktop Mini box. There should be a power cable that may come it two separate pieces. Plug the three pronged cable into this port on the power brick. Make sure it is snug and not loose.
Plug the power cable for the computer and the monitor into an outlet. (It is a good idea to put them on a surge protector as that will protect the device from any power spikes.)
Take the "desktop" out of the packaging. We will be plugging several things into the back of the device.
At the other end of the power cable is a "barrel" plug that will plug into this port on the far end of the back of the computer.
This is what it looks like when it is plugged in.
We include a WiFi adapter with our desktops, if it is not already in one of the USB ports, take it out of the box and plug it into any of the available USB ports on the back.
This is what the installed WiFi adapter looks like.
Next, take the "Displayport" cable that is coming out of the monitor and plug it into this port on the other side of the desktop. Again, these cables can only be plugged in one orientation so make sure the club/arrow is facing the correct way.
Installed display cable.
Next take the included Mice and keyboard out of the HP Box.
Plug both of them into any available USB ports on the back of the desktop.
Optional, if you have an available ethernet cable connection we HIGHLY recommend to hook up with this as it will be faster and more reliable than a WiFi connection.
Installed Ethernet cable. (Again, not necessary because of the included WiFi adapter but it is recommended.)
Now that you've got everything plugged in, it's time to start turning things on. At the bottom right of the monitor is the power button. If there is no light coming from this button, you will need to press the power button.
As for the desktop computer itself, this is the power button on the front right of the desktop. Press it in to turn on the desktop.
Once it is on, a light will illuminate the power icon.
Eventually the computer should display a signal to the monitor. (If the monitor still says "No Signal" after a few minutes, you may want to check the "DisplayPort" connections on both the monitor and desktop to make sure that they are fully inserted. The clips should be fully engaged and you should not be able to move the cable that much.)
Eventually, the desktop will finish loading and present you with a Windows login. If you are going to connect to the internet via WiFi, you will want to connect at this screen by clicking on the globe icon at the bottom right. ( Wireless Network Connection and Troubleshooting )
Once you have connected to your home network, sign in with your credentials and your desktop is ready to be used.