Recently I was given a HP Elitebook 6710B – I have it fully up and running now running Windows 7 Professional x64. Since I got it last week I’ve done this,
- Cleared the BIOS password (which was set and enabled for boot).
- Swapped out the 80G hard drive for a 500G.
- Upgraded from 1G to 2G RAM – stock 1G RAM module is inserted below the keypad.
- Ensured there was no excessive dust build up in HSF and vent area.
- Cleaned any dirty marks from casing.
It was secured with a BIOS which I had to clear by removing battery, removing the keyboard (just move it up out of the way a bit, I found you didn’t have to fully remove it and disconnect it from the laptop) and finally removing the CMOS battery from the laptop for about 15-30minutes.
30minutes is overkill but I wanted to be entirely sure, plus I was distracted for that long anyway :)
It’s been a great laptop – when plugged in – nice loud speakers, palms don’t usually make contact with the keypad when typing and it’s just a laptop, without all of the fancy design aspects that most have now days.
I’ve been planning upgrades for it already!
- Replacing the battery (absolute must!)
- Installing a Bluetooth module (internal)
- Swapping out the 1280×800 resolution WXGA+ LCD Screen for a 1680x1050res WSXGA+ LCD!
- Installing 4G RAM (2x2GB) – upgrading from 2G (2x1G)
- Purchasing a docking station.
