Sunday, December 16, 2007

Cannot Use Automatic Display Adjustment in the "Optimize how Media Center looks on your display" Feature

Cannot Use Automatic Display Adjustment in the "Optimize how Media Center looks on your display" Feature
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This document pertains to HP Media Center PCs and HP z540, z545, z552, z553, z555, and z557 Digital Entertainment Centers using Microsoft Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005
If the TV is connected to the system using a composite or S-video connection, the Media Center Setup Wizard cannot make automatic adjustment of settings for your TV display. This automatic adjustment is available during the Optional Setup, within the "Optimize how Media Center looks on your display" option.
Instead of using the wizard for automatic adjustment, set the TV display by using the Windows Desktop Properties. The following procedure describes what to do within the Media Center Setup Wizard and how to use the Windows Desktop Properties to adjust settings for your TV display.

During the Media Center Setup Wizard, at the Optional Setup, after you select Optimize how Media Center looks on your display, select the display type for Identify Your Display Type, and then select the Connection Type for your TV display by proceeding as described below:
If you choose the Composite or S-video option, click Next, and then continue with step 2.
If you choose the DVI or VGA options, you do not need to continue with this procedure (you can continue using the wizard to adjust your TV display).
On the next screen, select Keep my current settings and continue, and then click Next. Do not select the Preview Automatic Adjustment option.
IMPORTANT: If you choose the Preview Automatic Adjustment option, the screen may appear black or seem to halt for approximately 20 seconds. Wait until the wizard screen reappears, choose Do not adjust any settings, click Next, and then continue with the next step in this procedure.
Continue using the wizard until finished, and then either close or minimize Media Center.
Right-click a free area of the Windows desktop and choose Properties.
Click the Settings tab, and then click the Advanced button on that tab.
Click the ATI Displays tab.
Click the TV button (the small bar above the TV icon). The TV Properties window opens. (Your TV must be connected to the system.).
NOTE: You may need to click On (at the left corner of the TV button bar) to make the On button green, and then click Apply.
Click the Adjustments tab.
Adjust the screen position or screen size, and then click Apply.
Click OK as needed to close the open windows.
Repeat steps 4 through 10 when you want to adjust your TV display settings.

NOTE: If you perform the Preview Automatic Adjustment steps with Composite/S-Video selected and Media Center in Windows mode (that is, where the Media Center interface is not maximized, but instead running as an application in Windows), you will encounter a black screen when you switch to Media Center mode (full screen). To correct this, repeat the function "Optimize how Media Center looks on your display" procedure in Windows mode (simultaneously press Alt+Enter on the keyboard to switch between modes) and select DVI or VGA options instead of Composite/S-Video and accept the settings.

Using an HP Media Center Extender X5400

Using an HP Media Center Extender X5400
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In this document:
System requirements
Available tools
Frequently asked questions
Troubleshooting
Network performance troubleshooting
How to use
This document pertains to the HP Media Center Extender X5400 with PCs using Microsoft Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005.
Use HP Media Center Extender to extend the Media Center experience to watch TV, listen to music, view family photos and family video in any room of the house. Just connect the HP Media Center Extender (via wired or wireless networks) to a Media Center PC with a TV to begin enjoying the experience.
NOTE: A Media Center Extender is not a Windows XP desktop PC. It only extends most of the content that can be accessed through the Media Center interface of another system with Media Center 2005 installed. It is not a standalone PC that can run other Windows XP software, like HP Tunes, HP Image Zone, Music CDs, DVD movies, Real Rhapsody, Microsoft Office, and all other non-integrated software.

System requirements
HP recommends 802.11a or wired Ethernet 802.3. These technologies deliver the best multimedia experience. There are very few products or equipment in the home that operate in the 802.11a frequency band, therefore limiting the interference to your home network. The telephones that are in the 5.8 GHz band do not interfere with your 802.11a network. HP recommends using 802.11a for your home media network in the Media Center experience, leaving 802.11b-g available for your home data network. Your home data network would consist of email, web browsing, and network backup.
Microsoft approved routers
Only approved wireless 802.11 b/g/a routers should be used. Look for this logo on your router packaging.

What are the requirements for the Media Center Extender?
Refer to the following information when using Multiple Media Center Extenders.

Media Center Extender System Requirements
Number of Media Center Extenders
CPU Speed (in GHz)
Amount of Memory (in MB)
Maximum number of recommended wireless connections
1
2.8 GHz
256MB
1 (see Note)
2
2.8 GHz
512MB
1 (see Note)
3 to 5
3.4 GHz
1GB
1 (see Note)

NOTE: For the best experience when using multiple extenders, HP recommends limiting your configuration to 1 wireless connection, with the remaining extenders using wired ethernet connections.

Available tools
Three tools are available for you to maintain the Media Center Extender and monitor its performance. These tools are installed onto the Media Center PC.
How do I get the most out of my Media Center Extender?
Three tools are available for you to maintain the Media Center Extender and monitor its performance. These tools are installed onto the Media Center PC:

Media Center Extender Manager – Add another Media Center Extender or update the software.
Media Center Extender Network Performance Tuner – Tests how well your network performs, helps to improve performance, and tests how well it supports the Media Center Extender.
Media Center Extender Resource Monitor – quickly view the status of system resources.
Media Center Extender Manager
Use the Media Center Extender Manager to add another Media Center Extender to your Media Center PC or update the software for the Media Center Extender. To start the Media Center Extender Manager:

On the Media Center PC click Start on the taskbar.
Select All Programs.
Select Accessories.
Select Media Center, and then click Media Center Extender Manager.
Media Center Extender Network Performance Tuner
The Media Center Extender Network Performance Tuner tests how well your network supports the Media Center Extender. If you have problems receiving video information such as Live TV or Recorded TV on the Media Center Extender, use the Network Performance Tuner to determine the strength of the network signal and capacity. In addition, the Network Performance Tuner provides information about how to improve network performance between the Media Center Extender and the Media Center PC. To use the Media Center Extender Network Performance Tuner:

On the Media Center PC click Start on the taskbar.
Select All Programs.
Select Accessories.
Select Media Center, and then click Media Center Extender Network Performance Tuner.
For information on using the Network Performance Tuner refer to How to Use .
Media Center Extender Resource Monitor
You can view the status of system resources and turn on notifications to let you know if the resources are beginning to reach maximum level.

To quickly see the status of system sources in use by the Media Center Extender, use the Extender Resource Monitor. This tool shows you the status of four important PC resources: percentage of CPU utilization, disk usage, network usage, and memory available. If you are using the Media Center Extender and an experience suddenly changes, such as listening to music, check the Extender Resource Monitor to see if the PC is running out of resources.
You can use the Turn On Notifications option to have the Extender Resource Monitor notify you if one of the resources is beginning to reach its maximum level.
To use the Extender Resource Monitor:

From the system tray right-click the Extender Resource Monitor icon.
Then click Show System Resources.
You see the Extender Resource Monitor status.
How to check the version of Microsoft Windows XP Media Center Edition on your computer
To view the version of Microsoft Windows XP Media Center Edition on your computer, click Open Media Center, Settings, General, scroll down, and click About Media Center. An About Media Center window appears with version information listed.

Frequently asked questions
What are some possible problems with wireless networks?
Depending on your wireless network configuration, your experience may be different. Keep these basic rules of thumb in mind:

You must use a Microsoft-approved router. Approved routers have the Microsoft logo on the packaging.
The quality of your experience depends on reception. Factors that may impact reception include:
The distance between equipment on your network.
The number of walls within the networking area.
Reflections from metal obstructions (including mirrors and refrigerators) should be minimized.
The quality of your experience depends on your bandwidth. Adjust your bandwidth to enhance your experience. Refer to Network Performance Tuner.
Any firewalls that are being used must be set to allow network access to the MC Extender.
What are some of the ways to increase performance of the wireless path?
To increase the performance of your wireless components, minimize the number of obstructions that the wireless signal must travel through. This can be as simple as moving items in line of your wireless component. Imagine a straight line between your two wireless components; every object that exists on this line between them can strain the wireless performance. For example, if you've hidden your wireless access point or router behind a potted plant, that's going to affect signal strength and therefore performance. If your Media Center Extender antenna is placed in the back of a crowded A/V rack, and the access point it communicates with is located somewhere else in the house, the signal has to go through the other A/V components, which can drastically affect performance. Metal obstructions (including mirrors and refrigerators) are particularly important to remove from the path if possible. Use the Automatic Test or the Bandwidth Monitor options to see the effects of changes.
How can changing the location or orientation of my wireless equipment affect performance?
Even without changing the number of items in the wireless path, small changes to wireless networking equipment can improve the performance. Try moving your equipment to higher or lower elevations if possible, or try rotating equipment 45 or 90 degrees from its current position. For example, if your wireless access point or router is on the first floor of your house and your Media Center Extender is on the second floor, try putting the wireless access point or router up on a shelf. Use the Automatic Test or the Bandwidth Monitor options to see the effects of changes.
How does modifying antenna positioning affect performance?
The small antennas used in wireless networking devices are extremely sensitive to relatively minor changes in orientation and position. A good analogy is rabbit ears antennas, which were once widely used for TV reception: moving them an inch in any direction could change TV reception significantly. There might be one small spot where TV reception is fairly good. The same is true for wireless networking antennas. Sometimes performance works best when the antennas at both components of the wireless network are pointing vertically straight up. In other cases positioning the antennas on all devices at a 45-degree angle yields the best results. Performance usually decreases if the antennas are positioned vertically on one device (for example, your home networking access point/router) and horizontally on the other device (such as the Media Center Extender). Try different antenna positions while the bandwidth monitor (Network Performance Tuner) is running to see how it affects your network performance.

NOTE: Some wireless networking components have fixed internal antennas instead of external antennas. In these cases it may look as if the device doesn’t have an antenna at all. For devices with internal antennas you can rotate the device to change the antenna reception.
What are some possible problems with fully wired networks?
If you have a completely wired Ethernet network connecting from your Media Center PC to your Media Center Extender, double-check that all networking components support 100 Mbps. Older 10-Mbps Ethernet networking hubs are not supported and cause network bandwidth problems.
Questions about HP Tunes and HP Image Zone
HP iTunes and HP Image Zone will not work with the Media Center Extender. The Extender may display the HP iTunes and HP Image Zone screens but no functionality is available. These programs are intended to be used only from the Media Center PC.
Cannot connect during setup due to Norton Personal Firewall
Use the following steps to add MC Extender to the trusted zone of your home network, and then connect your MC Extender:

Click Start, All Programs, Norton AntiVirus , and LiveUpdate - Norton AntiVirus.
Follow the onscreen instructions to run the LiveUpdate until you receive a message that says "All the Symantec products and components installed on your computer are currently up-to-date."
Click Start, All Programs, Norton Personal Firewall , and Norton Personal Firewall again.
Click the Personal Firewall link in the System Status window.
Click the Configure button in the lower-right corner.
Click the Networking tab.
Make sure the Trusted tab is active and click the Add button.
Enter the MC Extenders IP address, and click OK.
NOTE: To find out your IP address, click Start, All Programs, Accessories, and Command Prompt. Then enter ipconfig.
Run the Media Center Extender Setup wizard. You may see one or more Security Alerts from Norton Internet Security or Norton Personal Firewall. Follow the recommended actions on each alert to configure Norton Internet Security or Norton Personal Firewall for the Windows Media Center Extender software.
The Media Center Extender Setup wizard may detect Norton Internet Security or Norton Personal Firewall and may display a suggestion to open ports to permit communications between the Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005 computer and the Windows Media Center Extender, as shown in the following image:

If you have already run LiveUpdate until no new updates are available, then you may skip the steps outlined in this pane of the Media Center Extender Setup. Running LiveUpdate will automatically create custom rules for Windows Media Center Extender.
Connect the Windows Media Center Extender device by shutting down the Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005 computer and the extender device. In some cases, it is necessary to turn off the power on the extender device using the on/off switch.
Turn on the Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005 computer and click Start, All Programs, Accessories, Media Center, and Media Center Extender Manager.
Turn on the Windows Media Center Extender device. Select Add a New Extender from the File menu, as shown in the following image:

Enter the setup key displayed on the Media Center Extender device into the Media Center Extender Setup wizard.
Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the rest of the Media Center Extender Setup wizard.

Troubleshooting
What elements can cause wireless network interference?
HP recommends 802.11a or wired Ethernet 100BaseT. The interference is limited on 802.11a as only a few devices operate in the frequency band of 5.8 GHz. 5.8GHz phones are in a different band. 802.11g wireless networks share their airspace with a number of other equipment and technologies that can influence overall performance. The following might affect your wireless network if they are in your house or nearby:

Microwave oven use
2.4-GHz cordless phones
2.4-GHz baby monitors
2.4-GHz analog wireless video senders
Neighboring wireless networks
Solving these types of interference problems can be challenging. If a significant interruption occurs for a short period of time, someone may be using a microwave oven nearby. Consider replacing your 2.4-GHz cordless phones or baby monitors with 900-MHz models if that's feasible. Refer to Changing Wireless Networking Channels for information on how to assign your wireless network to a different channel that may incur less interference from nearby equipment. Again you can avoid many of these by using 802.11a.
What about changing Wireless Networking channels?
Within a wireless networking standard such as 802.11g, individual channels exist that allow for multiple wireless devices to use different portions of the available bandwidth, (for example, 802.11g uses channels 1 though 11). Many wireless access points and routers are pre-configured to use a specific channel. If your neighbor has a wireless network, it is possible that you are both using the same channel. This can cause both of your wireless networks to slow down because they have to deal with traffic that doesn’t belong to them. Changing to a different channel may improve your performance. For 802.11g, even though there are 11 available channels, there are actually only 3 that do not overlap. You don’t need to test all the channels, checking channels 1, 6, and 11 should be sufficient to see whether you can improve performance with this technique. To change your wireless networking channel you need to use the Web page administration utility of your access point or router. See your wireless access point or router user's guide for more details on advanced configuration of your wireless network. Again to avoid this issue, 802.11a has many more channels that minimize interference.
About Network Topology Changes
One of the difficult modifications to make to your home network can have the most significant impact on overall performance, network topology changes. For example, you may have a Media Center PC in your living room, and a productivity PC in an office or den, and you want to put a Media Center Extender in your master bedroom. If your DSL Internet access is coming into your house at your office or den, then you may want to have both the Media Center PC and the Media Center Extender connected wireless. This type of configuration is not supported because video must travel over wireless twice and may result in seemingly unsolvable network performance problems. Consider modifications to your home network such as changing the point of entry of Internet into your house. If you have a phone jack near the Media Center PC in the living room, perhaps the DSL modem and your router can move there and the office PC can connect wireless. This configuration change allows the Media Center PC to connect to the router with wired Ethernet and places significantly less stress on the network for TV playback. Another option to consider is moving your wireless access point or router to a different room in the house that reduces the overall wireless distances or obstructions. Perhaps its reasonably easy to run a longer Ethernet wire between your Media Center PC and the access point but still get it into another room.
Recording TV shows at lower quality levels
If you are unable to solve your network performance problems, one option to consider is setting Media Center to record TV shows at a lower quality level. Each of Media Centers' recording levels uses less storage, but also requires less network bandwidth to watch on your Media Center Extender. Try successively lower quality levels until you get more reliable recorded TV playback on your Media Center Extender. Recording shows at lower quality levels will not affect the playback of Live TV on your Media Center Extender. Live TV is always sent from the Media Center PC to the Extender at the best quality level.
Cannot connect during setup due to Norton Personal Firewall
When the Media Center Extender software on the PC attempts to access the network address of the extender, Norton Personal firewall (NPF) blocks the access. To fix this, the MC Extender needs to be added as trusted software in Norton Personal firewall's rules. To allow access, minimize the Media Center setup screen when it attempts to connect. Do so willallow you to view and respond to the NPF window that appears (next to the time).

Network performance troubleshooting
What if I run into problems using the Network Performance Tuner
If you run into problems using the Network Performance Tuner check to make sure the following items have been addressed:

Your Media Center Extender has been successfully set up on your Media Center PC.
The Media Center Extender is turned on and showing the Media Center Start menu.
No media playback is occurring on the Media Center Extender (Live TV, Recorded TV, Music, My Videos, or Radio).
No one else in your house is using the Media Center Extender while the Network Performance Tuner is in use.
Your home network is not in use with significant network traffic from other PCs or equipment.
If all else fails, disconnect the Media Center Extender from its power source restart your Media Center PC and then reconnect the Media Center Extender to its power source.
What do I do if I see a Media Center error code?
Error code number, message, and action:

1 The Media Center Extender is defective and must be returned for repair.
Contact the HP to determine how to return the Media Center Extender.
2 The Media Center Extender software is either damaged or missing and must be restored.
Contact HP for information about restoring your Media Center Extender software.
3 The Media Center Extender software update is incorrect or the Media Center PC is not ready to upgrade.
Contact HP for more information about updating the Media Center Extender software.
4 There is a problem with the Ethernet connection or the Ethernet cable is defective.
Make sure the Ethernet cable is properly installed or replace the Ethernet cable with another one.

How to use
Accessing the Network Performance Tuner
When a Media Center Extender is initially set up with your Media Center PC, the Network Performance Tuner is launched in Automatic Test mode after setup is complete. This ensures that the current network configuration is capable of delivering a quality TV video experience. The Network Performance Tuner is also accessible at any time from the Start menu. Click Start, All Programs, Accessories, and then click Media Center.

Getting started
Use the Network Performance Tuner to ensure that your Media Center Extender is set up successfully, and when turned on, shows the Media Center from the Start main menu. To accurately understand the performance of your network make sure no media playback is occurring on the Media Center Extender while the Network Performance Tuner is in use (Live TV, Recorded TV, Music, My Videos, or Radio). For best results, before use, turn off your Media Center Extender then turn it back on again to clean up all Media Center Extender resources.

The Network Performance Tuner
The Network Performance Tuner is an advanced utility that measures the overall bandwidth between a Media Center PC and a Media Center Extender in the same way as the Automatic Test. The difference is that the Network Performance Tuner runs indefinitely continually showing the results of the testing on a graph displayed on the screen. The purpose of this utility monitor is that it allows you to make changes to your network configuration, such as changing the location of your access point or modifying the position of antennas, while seeing the results of those changes real time. When using the Network Performance Tuner the objective is to make adjustments to your network configuration until you can keep the green graph line consistently above the solid yellow line in the middle of the screen. The higher above the yellow line you can get your network performance the less likely you are to have problems watching TV on your Media Center Extender. See the Troubleshooting sections that follow for more detailed suggestions for how to improve your network performance.

Testing your network with the Automatic Network Performance Test
The Automatic Test within the Network Performance Tuner measures the available network bandwidth between your Media Center PC and your Media Center Extender for a short period of time. The test checks to see if video transmitted over your home network would have any quality problems that would be noticeable when watching live or recorded TV. When the test completes it shows if there are any potential problems or if the network performance looks acceptable for TV usage.

NOTE: Successful completion of the Automatic Test is not a guarantee against future performance problems. The Automatic Test is only run for a short time and wireless networks are susceptible to occasional interference from a variety of sources including 2.4-GHz cordless phones, microwave ovens, nearby wireless networks, and other seemingly random influences.

Basic file sharing
The Windows XP Home Edition and Windows XP Professional operating systems support basic file sharing. To use simple file sharing with Windows XP Professional, the PC must be part of a workgroup. It cannot be joined to a domain. It is recommended that all PCs on a home network use basic file sharing. When a folder is shared on the network, the contents can be viewed by anyone who has access to the network. Basic file sharing enables allows:

Sharing of a file or folder
Naming the share
Network users to change files in the folder
To share a folder:

Click Start, choose All Programs, Accessories, and then click Windows Explorer.
Locate the folder you want to share.
Right-click the folder, and then click Sharing and Security.
Do one of the following:
If the Share this folder on a network check box is available, select the check box.
If the Share this folder on a network check box is not available, then the PC is not connected to the network. If you would like to set up a home network, click the Network Setup Wizard link and follow the instructions to connect the PC to the home network and to turn on basic file sharing. Once file sharing is enabled, follow this procedure again.
When basic file sharing is enabled, the following folders cannot be shared on the network:

Documents and Settings (including My Documents)
Program Files
Windows system folders
Other user profiles

Advanced file sharing
PCs that are running Windows XP Professional have advanced file sharing capabilities. Basic file sharing is disabled and customers can configure more options with advanced file sharing. Using advanced file sharing is more complicated than basic file sharing and is not recommended for home networks. Advanced file sharing requires customers to configure permissions in addition to sharing the folder. The options are:

Share a file or folder
Name the share
Provide a comment or description of the share
Set permissions on the share, including a list of users or groups and their level of access
Configure offline folder settings
Modify the settings of an existing shared folder or create a new share. With advanced file sharing, all folders on the PC can be shared.
There is a special set of folders, such as the Windows folder, that discourages sharing. If one of these folders is shared, a warning appears recommending that the folder not be shared. Advanced file sharing requires users and groups to be added to the permission list for the shared folder. After adding users and groups, security settings must be configured to permit access to the contents of a shared folder. Security includes the level of access users have to a folder. For example, users can be restricted to viewing the content of a folder only, or they can have permission to modify the contents of the folder.
Folder permissions include:

Full control
Modify
Read and execute
Listing folder contents
Read
Write
When using advanced file sharing, anonymous logon privileges must be added to users and groups for permissions and security. This allows Media Center Extender to access the content in the shared folders.

How to view content on Media Center Extender
To find music, videos, and pictures that are stored on the Media Center PC or other PCs on the network, use the following procedures.
To add pictures:

On the Extender, from the Media Center desktop, click Start, and then click My Pictures.
Click the More Info button.
Select Add pictures, and then click Next.
Do one or both of the following:
To add pictures that are on the Media Center PC, select Add folders on this computer.
To add pictures that are on another computer on the network, select Add shared folders from another computer.
Select the folder or folders that contain the pictures, select Next, and then select Finish.
To Add music:

NOTE: To find music with the Extender, from the Media Center desktop, click Start on the taskbar, and then click My Music. The Media Center Extender does not support AAC music files.

On the Extender, from the Media Center desktop, click Start on the taskbar, and then click My Music.
Do one of the following:
If this is the first time music is being added, click Yes.
If music has been added previously, press More Info on the remote control, and click Add Music.
Click Add folders, and then click Next.
Do one or both of the following:
To add music that is on the Media Center PC, click Add folders on this computer.
To add music that is on another computer on the network, click Add shared folders from another computer.
Select the folder or folders that contain the music, click Next, and then click Finish.
To add videos:


On the Extender, from the Media Center desktop, click Start, and then click My Videos.
Click Add Videos.
Select Add folders, and then select Next.
Do one or both of the following:
To add videos that are on the Media Center PC click Add folders on this computer.
To add videos that are on another computer on the network click Add shared folders from another computer.
Select the folder or folders that contain the music, select Next, and then click Finish.

Setting Up and Using Two TV Tuners in Microsoft Media Center Edition 2005

Setting Up and Using Two TV Tuners in Microsoft Media Center Edition 2005

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In this document:

This document pertains to the HP Media Center PC using Microsoft Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005.

NOTE: Two TV tuners are included with select models only.

Setting Up Two TV Tuners
An HP Media Center PC with two supported TV tuners can support:

1 analog antenna (NTSC or PAL)
1 analog cable (no set-top box)
2 cable set-top boxes (Select models only)
2 satellite TV set-top boxes (Select models only)
You must connect both TV tuners to the same signal source. You cannot set up the tuners to different TV signal sources, such as satellite and antenna. For example, you must use an antenna, cable, two cable boxes, or two satellite set-top boxes for both tuner inputs.

Figure 1: 2 Set-top box connection
NOTE: Use the (B) connectors if you have a dual tuner card and a second identical set-top box. Do not connect coaxial cables in this configuration.
To use an antenna or cable (with no set-top box) with dual tuners, the HP Media Center PC includes an internal splitter. The dual tuner card connects the input signal to both tuners internally.

Figure 2: Cable/Antenna connection

Using Two TV Tuners
With two TV tuners, your Media Center PC can record two programs at the same time. You can also watch live TV while recording a program on another channel.
Recording two programs at the same time

Press the Media Center Start button on the remote control.
Select My TV, and then select Guide.
Use the arrow buttons to select a show to record, and then press the Record button on the remote control.
Select a second show to record at the same time, and then press the Record button again.
Follow any onscreen instructions.

Watching live TV and recording a different channel at the same time

Press the Media Center Start button on the remote control.
Select My TV, and then select Guide.
Use the arrow buttons to select a show to record, and then press the Record button on the remote control.
Select a second show to watch, and then press the OK button to begin watching it.
Follow any onscreen instructions.

Setting up the Media Center Computer in Media Center Edition (first version) or Media Center Edition 2004

Setting up the Media Center Computer in Media Center Edition (first version) or Media Center Edition 2004

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This document applies to HP Media Center PCs with Windows XP Media Center Edition or Media Center Edition 2004.
If your HP Media Center PC included Media Center Edition 2005, use HP Media Center PCs - Setting up the Media Center Computer Step-by-Step in Media Center Edition 2005 .
This document provides step-by-step instructions for setting up the hardware and software for the HP Media Center PC.
Before you begin
Make sure you have the following items available before setting up the computer:

A computer monitor is highly recommended to initially set up the computer. Using a television screen to make changes in Windows may be difficult due to the higher resolution of Windows.
All components that came with the computer. Use the setup poster that came with the HP Media Center computer to determine if a component is missing or refer to the product specifications.
Sufficient coaxial (television) cable to connect each device that accepts a television signal (set-top/receiver box, VCR, and the Media Center computer). One coaxial cable is supplied.
An S-video cable (not supplied), if a television capable of accepting S-video is used.
A flashlight, if the installation area is dark.
An Internet connection is required to use the Television Program Guide function.

Step 1: Set up the hardware
Perform the following steps to set up the HP Media Center hardware. At this time, do not connect any peripherals (for example printers, scanners, palmtops, cameras).

Insert the batteries into the remote control for the Media Center.
Place the computer in an area near the monitor, power plug, network connections, and television connections.
Connect the mouse to the round, green PS/2 port on the back of the computer, or if the computer came with a USB mouse connect it to an available USB port.
Connect the keyboard to the round, purple PS/2 port on the back of the computer, or if the computer came with a USB keyboard connect it to an available USB port.
If you plan to use the Television Program Guide function, connect the computer to your Internet connection. Internet connection cables will depend on the type of Internet service.
If the computer came with speakers, connect the speakers as shown in the setup poster. For more information on speaker setup refer to the HP support document, HP Media Center PC - Setting up and Configuring Speakers (in English).
Connect the remote sensor's cable into an open USB port on the back of the computer. The best location for the remote sensor is next to the display (television or monitor).
When using a cable set-top box or satellite receiver box, connect the remote sensor control cable into the remote sensor for the Media Center computer (see Figure 1).
Remove the adhesive backing from the remote sensor control.
Attach the remote sensor control directly over the remote sensor on the set-top or receiver box so that the sensor is fully covered by the remote sensor control.
Plug the Media Center power cable into the back of the computer. Plug the other end into a power outlet.

Figure 1: Connecting the remote sensor control cable
1 - Remote sensor for the Media Center computer
2 - Remote sensor control
3 - Remote sensor on the Set-top box or receiver

Step 2: Connect the television signal
Perform the following steps to connect the television signal to the display (Refer to Figure 2 for assistance):

NOTE: If using a video game console device (like an X-Box, PS2, Gamecube, or other device), because of a small time delay while the signal is processed, it is not recommended that you connect it to the Media Center computer. Instead, connect the game console directly to the display device using video signal switching hardware from your local electronics store or connect it to a separate TV set.

Find the coaxial cable coming from the wall or television antenna. This is the main television signal coming in from an antenna, a cable company, or a satellite dish.
If using a cable set-top box or a satellite receiver box, connect the coaxial cable into the line-in connector on the back of the set-top box. Connect another coaxial cable into the line-out connector on the back of the set-top box.
If using a Video tape recorder (VCR), connect the coaxial into the line-in connector on the back of the VCR. Connect another coaxial cable into the line-out connector on the back of the VCR.
Connect the coaxial cable into the connector on the back of the Media Center computer.
If using a computer monitor (recommended for initial set-up), connect the monitor cable to the back of the computer and the monitor. Plug the monitor power cord into a power outlet.
If using a television, connect an S-video cable into the back of the computer and into the back of the television. If the television does not have an S-video-in connector, use the S-video-to-RCA adapter cable or use a standard video cable to make the connection. Plug in the television power cord.

Figure 2: Coaxial (television) cable connections

Step 3: Configure the software for television
Use the following steps to configure the Media Center software before viewing television:

NOTE: Required information for cable or satellite television is found in your television programming package.

Press the Power button on the computer and on the monitor or television. If using a television, use the television remote control to change the input source setting to match the incoming television signal connection (usually Line-1, Video 1, or S-video).
Read and respond to all setup screens that appear. Set up an Internet connection with an Internet provider. An Internet connection is required in order to use the Television Program Guide.
Connect to the Internet.
Double-click the Media Center icon on the Windows desktop or press the green Start button on the remote control. A Getting Started screen appears.
Click Next. A Check Your Remote screen appears. Press the keypad numbers on the remote control to brighten the numbers on the screen. A small red light also lights on the remote sensor when it successfully receives a signal. When done, click My remote is working properly. If the numbers on the screen do not brighten and the red light does not come on, check the following items and try again:
Make sure that the batteries for the remote control are good and are installed in the proper direction.
Make sure that the remote sensor for the Media Center computer is connected into a USB port behind the computer.
Make sure that the front of the remote sensor is within a 45-degree range and is less than 26 feet (8 meters) away.
Click Next. A Choose Your Connection screen appears. Select Broadband, LAN or None, I will connect manually. For a dial-up Internet connection select None, I will connect manually.
Click Next. A Choose Your TV Signal screen appears. Depending on the source of your television signal, select Cable, Satellite, or Antenna, and then click Next. If you selected cable, then select My TV signal passes through a set-top box or I do not have a set-top box. Click Next.
If you are using a satellite receiver or cable with a set-top box, use the following steps to match the code set used by the box to the remote control:
Click Next, and then click Next again.
A Choose Your TV Signal screen appears. Select channel 2, 3, 4, or S-video. A clear television signal should display when the proper channel is selected (the channel may be black, on a channel guide, or on a pay-per-view menu). If a clear television signal does not display, check the coaxial and S-video connections.
Click Next, a Choose Number of Digits screen appears. This number is usually the same as the number of digits in the highest available channel number. For example, if the highest channel number is 123, then select 3. If the highest channel number is 99, then select 2.
Click Next, a How Do You Change Your Channels screen appears. If you have to press an Enter or Submit key on the remote control for your set-top or receiver, select Yes, I have to press enter. If you do not press Enter to change channels, select I just enter the channel number.
Click Next, and select the brand of the satellite receiver or cable set top box from the list. If the brand or manufacturer's name is not on the front of the box, check the labels on the back or bottom of the box. Call the television provider if you cannot find the name.
Click Next, a Select Code Set screen appears. Select the first available code set.
On the next two screens, read the instructions for each screen and change the channel using the remote control. It may take a few seconds for the channel to change. If the channel changes, click Next and continue. If the channel does not change, or if a satellite or pay-per-view menu appears when a channel number is entered, turn the cable or satellite box off and then back on. Click Back to try a different code-set. If a compatible code-set cannot be found, call the satellite or cable company for the proper settings.

NOTE: If you are unable to find your particular brand of set-top box or MyTV only receives one channel, use Microsoft's Set-top box Issue Submission Form (in English) to report this.
Choose a remote control speed. Select Fast. If changing channels is troublesome in the future, this setting can be adjusted to a lower setting later from inside Television Options.
Click Next. A Terms of Service screen appears. If you agree to the terms, select I Agree, and then click Next. If you do not agree to the terms, select I don't agree, and then click Next. If you do not agree, television recording and certain program guide features will not be available.
Click Next, and then enter your Zip or Postal code. Make sure that you are logged onto the Internet.
Click Next. The television provider information automatically downloads. Click Next when downloading has finished. For customers of the United States you can verify the correct station listings yourself by going to the Zap 2 it Web site (in English) and typing in your zip code.
Select your television signal provider from the list that appears.
Click Next. The Television Program Guide for the current times downloads automatically.
When the program guide has finished downloading, click Next to finish the setup. Continue to the next step if you used a computer monitor to set up the computer and you now want to use a television set as a monitor.

Step 4: Replace the monitor with a television (optional)
After the HP Media Center computer has been set up using a monitor, you may replace the monitor with a television by using the following steps:

NOTE: Not all Media Center PCs are capable of displaying to a TV. Please refer to the PC product specifications (check the box or use www.hp.com and search by product) to determine if your PC supports the TV out option.

Shut down the computer and turn off the monitor.
Unplug the monitor power cable from the power outlet and from the monitor.
Unplug the monitor cable from the back of the computer.
Replace the monitor with the television.
Plug the television's power cord into a power outlet.
Plug in an S-video cable (not provided) or a composite video cable into the back of the television set (see Figure 3). If the television does not have an S-video or composite connector, use an adapter that connects from an S-video/composite connector to the type of connector on the back of the television.
Turn on the television and the computer.
Using the television remote control, change the input source setting to match the incoming television signal connection (usually Line-1, Video 1, or S-video).

Step 5: Install other hardware and software
Only install other hardware and software after the HP Media Center computer is set up and working properly. Install hardware and software one item at a time, as per the product's instructions. Restart the computer after adding each new hardware addition.
Step 6: Consider other optional settings and configurations
Consider the following item when using the HP Media Center computer:

Do not use the stereo out connectors on the television, VCR, satellite receiver, or set-top box. Only use the stereo out connectors from the television or sound card on the computer. Otherwise, sound will be heard before the television image or there will be two separate audio streams.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions
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How can I update the software on my Media Center?
Updates to Media Center drivers and software are available on Microsoft's Windows Update site. Use the following steps to update drivers and software:

Turn on the Media Center computer and connect to the Internet.
Click Start, All Programs, and then Windows Update.
Agree to download any plug-ins from Microsoft if prompted.
Read and respond to the information on the Web page. Read the page carefully as information might change from time to time.
For more detailed information on how to use the Windows Update feature, refer to the HP support document: HP and Compaq Desktop PCs - Updating Drivers and Software with Windows Update .

Why am I not getting a TV signal when using the Media Center software?
Check the following items if you cannot view television in the Media Center software:

The television signal needs to come into the computer through the coaxial or s-video input. Make sure that you are not trying to connect a standard video cable (RCA style) to the audio inputs or the video out on the graphics card. Use the standard video to S-Video adapter if a standard video cable is used.
Connect the end of the s-video cable or coaxial cable into a TV to see if the cable is working properly.
Make sure that the TV signal settings are correct for the Media Center software. This is very important, especially if a cable TV or satellite dish set-top box is used. To correct the TV signal settings, use HP Media Center Desktop PCs - Setting the TV Signal in Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005 Software .

How do I get television information to show up in the program guide?
The following items have to be done before the television guide can provide updated TV listings:

An Internet connection has to be set up before the guide can be used.
The television guide has to be configured to where you live by zip or postal code in guide setup.
The latest guide information needs to be downloaded from the Internet.
For more detailed information on setting up and using the TV program guide, refer to the HP support document: HP Media Center Desktop PCs - Using the Television Program Guide in Windows Media Center Edition 2005 .

How do I use the memory card reader?
Memory cards, like those that are used in digital cameras, can be used like a floppy disk. Place a memory card into the appropriate memory card slot on the reader when the light on the reader is not flashing. Items stored on the memory card appear in Windows under My Computer.
Make sure that the light on the memory card reader is not flashing before removing a card.
For detailed information on how to use the memory card reader, refer to the HP support document: HP and Compaq Desktop PCs - Using and Troubleshooting Memory Card Readers .

How do I save TV programs to a CD-RW or DVD+RW?
Perform the following steps to save TV recordings to a disc:

NOTE: Most TV recordings will not fit on CD-R or CD-RW media. To record 1/2 hour TV programs to CD-R or CD-RW discs, use 700 MB/80 minute recordable discs or better and set the recording quality to Fair.


Record a TV program using Media Center.
After recording the TV program, click Start, All Programs, RecordNow, and then RecordNow.
Click Make a Data Disc and insert a blank recordable disc into the drive. Click Next.
Click the Add Files and Folders button.
Select Shared Documents from the Look in: drop-down menu.
Double-click Recorded TV.
Select a TV Recording (the files with a small green Media Center logo floating over a blank page).
Click the Add button and click Next to create the CD.

My television recordings stop or fail. How can I prevent this from happening?
The Media Center software will not record a TV program unless it can detect a usable TV signal. To make sure that your TV programs get recorded properly perform the items on the following list:

The computer has to be on for recording to function. Do not turn the computer off.
Do not go into standby during a recording and adjust power setting times to greater than the length of the program's recording time. To adjust power settings, click Start, Control Panel, Performance and Maintenance, and then Power Settings.
Double-click the Media Center icon on the Windows desktop and click My TV. You should see the TV picture in the display for each channel.
Change the channels and make sure that each channel that you want to record from has a good picture.
Make sure that you are using the proper programming guide information. Go to Zap2it's Web site and enter your zip or Postal code to find out the correct TV listings for your location. If the guide information is incorrect, then connect to the Internet and perform the guide setup again.

My remote control does not work properly. How do I fix it?
Perform the following items if the remote control does not behave as expected:

Unplug the IR receiver from its USB connection, wait one minute, and then plug it back in.
Move the IR receiver to a darker location.
If a set-top box is used, make sure that you connect the remote sensor control cable (the smallest cable that came in the box).
For more help troubleshooting the remote control, refer to the HP support document: HP Media Center Desktop PCs - Troubleshooting the Remote Control and the IR Receiver .

How can I prevent mature content from appearing? How do I use parental controls?
Use the following steps to prevent viewing of unwanted Television and DVD programs on the Media Center computer:

Double-click the Media Center icon on the Windows desktop or press the green Start button on the remote control.
Click Settings, TV/DVD, and then click Parental control.
Type in four numbers for a personal identification number. Confirm this number by typing it in again when prompted. Write this number down and store it in a safe place.
Click TV Ratings to block levels of rated TV programming or click Movie/DVD Ratings to block levels of rated TV programming.

Setting up the Media Center Computer Step-by-Step in Media Center Edition 2005

Setting up the Media Center Computer Step-by-Step in Media Center Edition 2005
___________________________________________________
This document applies to the HP Media Center PC with Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005.
If your HP Media Center PC included Media Center Edition (first version) or Media Center Edition 2004, use HP Media Center PCs - Setting up the Media Center Computer Step-by-Step in Media Center Edition 2004 .
This document provides step-by-step instructions for setting up the hardware and software for the HP Media Center PC.
Before you begin
Make sure you have the following items available before setting up the computer:

A computer monitor is highly recommended to initially set up the computer. Using a television screen to make changes in Windows may be difficult due to the higher resolution of Windows.
All components that came with the computer. Use the setup poster that came with the HP Media Center computer to determine if a component is missing or refer to the product specifications.
Sufficient coaxial (television) cable to connect each device that accepts a television signal (set-top/receiver box, VCR, and the Media Center computer). One coaxial cable is supplied.
An S-video cable (not supplied), if a television capable of accepting S-video is used.
A flashlight, if the installation area is dark.
An Internet connection is required to use the Television Program Guide function.

Step 1: Set up the hardware
Perform the following steps to set up the HP Media Center hardware. At this time, do not connect any peripherals (for example printers, scanners, palmtops, cameras).

Insert the batteries into the remote control for the Media Center.
Place the computer in an area near the monitor, power plug, network connections, and television connections.
Connect the mouse to the round, green PS/2 port on the back of the computer.
Connect the keyboard to the round, purple PS/2 port on the back of the computer.
If you plan to use the Television Program Guide function, connect the computer to your Internet connection. Internet connection cables will depend on the type of Internet service.
If the computer came with speakers, connect the speakers as shown in the setup poster. For more information on speaker setup refer to the HP support document, HP Media Center PC - Setting up and Configuring Speakers (in English).
Connect the remote sensor's cable into an open USB port on the back of the computer. The best location for the remote sensor is next to the display (television or monitor).
When using a cable set-top box or satellite receiver box, connect the remote sensor control cable into the remote sensor for the Media Center computer (see Figure 1).
Remove the adhesive backing from the remote sensor control.
Attach the remote sensor control next to the remote sensor on the set-top or receiver box.
Plug the Media Center power cable into the back of the computer. Plug the other end into a power outlet.

Figure 1: Connecting the remote sensor control cable
1 - Remote sensor for the Media Center computer
2 - Remote sensor control
3 - Remote sensor on the Set-top box or receiver

Step 2: Connect the television signal
Perform the following steps to connect the television signal to the display (Refer to Figure 2 for assistance):

NOTE: If using a video game console device (like an X-Box, PS2, or Gamecube), it is not recommended that you connect it to the Media Center computer. Instead, connect it directly to the display device using video signal switching hardware from your local electronics store or connect it to a separate TV set.

Find the coaxial cable coming from the wall or television antenna. This is the main television signal coming in from an antenna, a cable company, or a satellite dish.
If using a cable set-top box or a satellite receiver box, connect the coaxial cable into the line-in connector on the back of the set-top box. Connect another coaxial cable into the line-out connector on the back of the set-top box.
If using a Video tape recorder (VCR), connect the coaxial into the line-in connector on the back of the VCR. Connect another coaxial cable into the line-out connector on the back of the VCR.
Connect the coaxial cable into the connector on the back of the Media Center computer.
If using a computer monitor (recommended for initial set-up), connect the monitor cable to the back of the computer and the monitor. Plug the monitor power cord into a power outlet.
If using a television, connect an S-video cable into the back of the computer and into the back of the television. If the television does not have an S-video-in connector, use the S-video-to-RCA adapter cable or use a standard video cable to make the connection. Plug in the television power cord.

Figure 2: Coaxial (television) cable connections

Step 3: Configure the software for television
Use the following steps to configure the Media Center software before viewing television:

NOTE: Required information for cable or satellite television is found in your television programming package.

Press the Power button on the computer and on the monitor or television. If using a television, use the television remote control to change the input source setting to match the incoming television signal connection (usually Line-1, Video 1, or S-video).
Read and respond to all setup screens that appear. Set up an Internet connection with an Internet provider. An Internet connection is required in order to use the Television Program Guide.
Connect to the Internet.
Double-click the Media Center icon on the Windows desktop or press the green Start button on the remote control. The Media Center Setup Wizard screen appears.
Click Next. The Media Center Welcome screen appears.
Click Next. The Media Center Setup screen appears. It informs you that there are required and optional setup steps.
Click Next. The Media Center Privacy Policy screen appears. Click Media Center Privacy Policy to view the policy.
Click Next. The Enhanced Playback screen appears. It prompts you to select whether or not you want Media Center to automatically connect to the Internet to retrieve cover art, movie information, and Television Program Guides.
Click Yes or No, and then click Next. The Internet Connection screen appears. It prompts you to select whether or not you have an "Always On" Internet connection.
If you have a broadband Internet connection (cable modem or DSL), click Yes. If you have a dial-up connection, click No. You are prompted to test your Internet connection.
Click Test. When Media Center confirms your Internet connection, click Next. Media Center displays a summary of the Required setup steps that you have completed.
Click Next to display the Optional Setup screen.
Click Configure tuners, TV signal, and Guide and then Next. The TV Setup screen appears.
Confirm that the default region is correct.
If the region is correct, click Yes, use this region to configure TV services and then Next.
If the region is not correct, click No, I want to configure a different region and then Next. Select the proper region, and then click Next.
The Automatic TV Signal Setup screen appears.
Click Configure my TV signal automatically and then Next. Confirm your connection as described in the onscreen instructions.
Click Next to start the scan for TV signals from your TV source (antenna, cable, or satellite). When a signal is found, you are prompted to confirm the type and number of connections.
If the search result returns the correct signal source, click Yes and then Next.
If the search result returns the incorrect signal source (or no source), click No, I want to try again and then Next. Ensure your TV source inputs are connected properly, and click Next to retry the search.
Click No, proceed to manual TV signal setup and then Next to manually configure your TV source. Follow the onscreen instructions.
After confirming your TV source, the Guide Privacy screen appears and prompts you Do you want to use the guide?
Click Yesand then Next. The Terms of Service screen appears.
If you agree to the terms, select I agree, and then click Next. If you do not agree to the terms, select I don't agree and then click Next. If you do not agree, television recording and certain program guide features are not be available. You are prompted to enter the zip code for your service area.
Enter your five-digit zip code and click Next. The program guide for your region is downloaded (you must be connected to the Internet to complete this step).
When the download is complete, click Next and then select your TV signal provider from the list.
Click Next. The provider-specific information automatically downloads. Click Next when downloading has finished. If you are in the United States you can verify the correct station listings yourself by going to the Zap 2 it Web site (in English) and typing in your zip code.
When the program guide has finished downloading, click Next, select I am finished, and then Finish to complete the setup. Continue to the next step if you used a computer monitor to set up the computer and you now want to use a television set as a monitor.

Step 4: Set up the Media Center optimization utility (optional)
The optimization utility is designed to keep your HP Media Center PC running smoothly when Media Center is left open for long periods of time. Media Center can be left open because of various scheduled TV recordings or because the PC enters Standby or Away mode while Media Center is still open.
During an optimization, Media Center automatically closes and then opens at a scheduled time when there has not been any activity for 30 minutes. If it cannot be performed, the optimization is skipped until the next scheduled time.
To enable the Media Center optimization utility:

Click Start on the taskbar, and then click Media Center.
Select Settings, General, and then select Optimization.

Place a check mark next to Perform Optimization to enable the optimization utility.
Enter the time you want the optimization to occur by using your keyboard or your remote control.
Select Save.

NOTE: Optimization is not done while a CD is being recorded, media is being downloaded from the Internet, or while any media except Live TV is playing, paused or stopped.

Step 5: Replace the monitor with a television (optional)
After the HP Media Center computer has been set up using a monitor, you may replace the monitor with a television by using the following steps:

NOTE: Not all Media Center PCs are capable of displaying to a TV. Please refer to the PC product specifications (check the box or use www.hp.com and search by product) to determine if your PC supports the TV out option.

Shut down the computer and turn off the monitor.
Unplug the monitor power cable from the power outlet and from the monitor.
Unplug the monitor cable from the back of the computer.
Replace the monitor with the television.
Plug the television's power cord into a power outlet.
Plug in an S-video cable (not provided) or a composite video cable into the back of the television set (see Figure 3). If the television does not have an S-video or composite connector, use an adapter that connects from an S-video/composite connector to the type of connector on the back of the television.
Turn on the television and the computer.
Using the television remote control, change the input source setting to match the incoming television signal connection (usually Line-1, Video 1, or S-video).

Step 6: Install other hardware and software
Only install other hardware and software after the HP Media Center computer is set up and working properly. Install hardware and software one item at a time, as per the product's instructions. Restart the computer after adding each new hardware addition.
Step 7: Consider other optional settings and configurations
Consider the following item when using the HP Media Center computer:

Do not use the stereo out connectors on the television, VCR, satellite receiver, or set-top box. Only use the stereo out connectors from the television or sound card on the computer. Otherwise, sound will be heard before the television image or there will be two separate audio streams.

Troubleshooting the Remote Control and the IR Sensor

Troubleshooting the Remote Control and the IR Sensor
___________________________________________________
In this document:
Troubleshooting the remote control
Troubleshooting the IR receiver
Testing the remote control
Other related support information
This document pertains to HP Media Center computers with Windows XP, Media Center Edition.
Use this document when the remote control does not work correctly with the Media Center software.
Troubleshooting the remote control
Use the following items to troubleshoot when the remote control does not respond or when the remote control does not work properly. For example, when a key is pressed the selection moves all the way to the top or bottom of a list, or moves a selection many different places instead of the item you were trying to select.
Before attempting these steps, make sure that PC has been updated with all of the latest Windows updates. Many updates for Media Center, like Update Rollup 1 for eHome Infrared Receiver, can be downloaded easily through the Windows Update software Tool. For more information, refer to Updating Drivers and Software with Windows Update .

Make sure that the batteries for the remote control are installed correctly and charged.
Make sure that the front of the remote sensor is unobstructed, within a 45-degree range, and is less than 26 feet (8 meters) away. Disconnect all devices that use a USB connection except to the receiver, keyboard, and mouse. Restart the PC, and then try the remote again.
If a pressed button repeats itself (sticks), unplug the IR receiver from its USB connection, wait one minute, and plug in the IR receiver. If the pressed buttons continue to repeat, alter the lighting conditions in the room or move the location of the IR receiver. Other remotes and HP Media Center PCs within range can also cause this issue.
Try pressing the Enter key on the remote after changing a channel.
If the remote control works when using the media center software, but does not work when changing the television channels, re-configure the Media Center software settings for the cable set-top box or satellite receiver. For more information, refer to the HP support document Setting up the Media Center Computer Step-by-step (in English).
Point the remote control towards the IR receiver and press a button. A faint red light should appear on the IR receiver. If the light appears, then the problem is probably in the software that is using the remote control (most likely the configuration of the Media Center software). Close the software, restart the computer, and then re-open the software to solve this issue.

Troubleshooting the IR receiver
The IR receiver is the small device that receives the signals sent by the remote control. Use the following steps to test and reset the IR receiver.

Disconnect the IR receiver from its USB port on the computer, maximize the Media Center window if it is open, and then reconnect the IR receiver. Test again.
Point the remote control towards the IR receiver and press a button. A faint red light should appear on the IR receiver. If the light appears, then the problem is probably in the software that is using the IR receiver (most likely the Media Center software). Close the software, restart the computer, and then re-open the software to solve this issue.
Click Start, right-click My Computer, and then select Properties.
Click the Hardware tab and then click the Device Manager button.
Click the plus sign next to Universal Serial Bus Controllers.
If the eHome Infrared Receiver is listed under Universal Serial Bus controllers, Windows is properly detecting the IR receiver. If eHome Infrared Receiver is not in the list, or there is an exclamation mark or a question mark on the device, perform the following until eHome Infrared Receiver appears correct in Device manager:
Unplug the end of the USB cable on the IR receiver from the computer and plug it into the same USB port.
Plug the end of the USB cable on the IR receiver into the front USB port on the computer.
Disconnect all other USB devices, leave the IR receiver plugged in, and then restart the computer. Plug in other USB devices after the IR receiver shows up in device manager.

Figure 1: IR receiver listing in Device Manager

Testing the remote control
Use the following steps to check the responsiveness of the remote control:

Open the Media Center software by double-clicking the Media Center icon the desktop or by pressing the green Start button on the remote control.
Click Settings, and then click General.
Click Check Your Remote, and then click Next.
Press the numbers on your remote control. The corresponding numbers on the numbers on the screen should glow when each button is pressed. A faint red light should also glow inside the IR receiver each time a button on the remote pressed.
Click My control is working properly, and then click Next. Do not click I am having problems with my remote control as this will not do anything.
Click Finish after you are done.