Recovering HP-installed software from original purchase

[Philvbo]

For whatever reason, the latest Microsoft update crashed my computer and I had to do a complete Microsoft re-install. It took me a couple of days but besides losing my data, I also lost applications that were included in the original HP package (like Beat Audio, Cool Sense etc..), the use of my f-key functions and who know what else.

How do I restore those components? I bought direct from HP Direct and I am sure it is off-warranty but I would at least like to know how I could download and re-install the original configuration.

[ieee488]

Check hp.com for your specific model.

[Philvbo]

Referencing the bottom of the unit, I provided my serial number CND 346OD3V to HP, even using the auto-detection feature,  but HP doesn't recognize my S/N. It's only been about two years since I bought it from HP Direct and it was on warranty so I find that very curious. All I know is that my laptop is an Envy with a 13" TouchSmart fixed display,  8 GB RAM, 500GB memory.

[ieee488]

Don't use the serial number. Use the model number.

[Philvbo]

Okay. That worked. Is it safe to simply download the components listed? For instance, I don't see "Cool Sense" or "Beat Audio" or anything that suggest key functions that are unique to to HP over the components installed in the Microsoft re-install. Am I risking messing things up? Not that I think Beat Audio is anything great but I am leary of updating drivers blindly. I guess I need a little general guidance about how to proceed with these downloads. And BTW, thanks for your help. You "unstuck" me from my rut.

[ieee488]

The most important driver is the Intel chipset driver.

You must install that first.

You may not see those special application software. I don't see what you are seeing, so I can't say for sure.

[Philvbo]

There are 4 driver downloads listed under the chip set:

1. Chip set installation and driver (I assume I start there)
2. Management Engine Interface  driver
3. Rapid start technology driver
4. Smart connect tech driver

Do I install them in that order?

Also, in order to preserve the data on the original Hitachi hard drive, I installed a new Samsung hard drive so as to gain more speed by replacing a 500 GB drive with a 250 GB drive (recommended by my office network tech). I'm guessing I should at least ignore the Hitachi firmware download? Everything else is original from purchase.

[ieee488 · Accepted solution]

---

@Philvbo wrote:

There are 4 driver downloads listed under the chip set:

1. Chip set installation and driver (I assume I start there)
2. Management Engine Interface  driver
3. Rapid start technology driver
4. Smart connect tech driver

Do I install them in that order?

Also, in order to preserve the data on the original Hitachi hard drive, I installed a new Samsung hard drive so as to gain more speed by replacing a 500 GB drive with a 250 GB drive (recommended by my office network tech). I'm guessing I should at least ignore the Hitachi firmware download? Everything else is original from purchase.

---

Yes, I would install them in that order.

Yes, you can ignore the Hitachi firmware.