During the startup or boot process of the notebook, the display is very dim and barely readable. It remains dim when it reaches the Windows desktop. If a notebook is operating and the AC power is disconnected, the display will dim to conserve battery power.

Restart the notebook with AC power

Perform the following steps to determine if the dim display is due to a hardware failure:

1. Connect the AC adapter to the notebook and a working electrical outlet.
2. Power down the notebook PC by pressing and holding the Power button for 5 seconds.
3. Press the Power button again to start the computer.

If the display is still dim after restarting with the AC adapter connected try changing the LCD brightness.

Change the LCD brightness

When the notebook is operating in Windows desktop, hold the function (fn ) key down while pressing the f7 and f8 keys to increase or decrease the brightness of the display.

The number of the function key, or the combination of function keys used to change the brightness of the display, is different on different notebook PCs. Common key combinations include: fn+f7 and fn+f8 , or fn+f9 and fn+f10 . However, on some model you can press a key without pressing the function (fn) key; i.e. just press f2 or f3 on an Envy notebook.

You can also look at the Brightness Level icon on the key on the keyboard:

Brightness Level Higher Image for brighter display or

Brightness Level Lower Image for dimmer display or

If using these function keys to adjust the display does not resolve the problem, go to the section on the Lid Actuator switch.

Adjust brightness control using the control panel

Some notebook PCs have the ability to adjust the brightness through video drivers. If the notebook PC has video drivers with this capability, perform the following steps:

1. Click Start , Control Panel and then double click Display .
   
2. Double-click Adjust brightness .
   
3. At the bottom of the displayed screen, there is a Screen brightness slide. This will adjust the current power source screen brightness. If you want to adjust both powered and on battery brightness, then double-click Choose when to turn off the display .
   
4. This then allows you to set the brightness controls for on battery or plugged in by simply adjusting the slides shown.
   

Finding the Lid Actuator switch

The Lid Actuator switch is a small button or switch located above the keyboard and LEDs on the right or left side of the notebook. It may also be located near the display hinges. Pressing this switch when the computer is on may turn the notebook display off or cause the notebook to enter a different power state.

Press the switch 2-3 times while observing the display. If the display is no longer dim the switch may need to be repaired. Contact HP service and support for further assistance.

Most newer model computers do not have a switch as shown above and use one contained in the hinge. To test for this kind of switch, lower the lid until it nears the base and check if the display shuts off.

See also

HP Notebook PCs - Resolving Problems with the Brightness of the Display