Boot device not found please install an operating system on your hard disk (3f0)

[PiXil8]

Post moved from: https://h30434.www3.hp.com/t5/Notebook-Boot-and-Lockup/boot-device-not-found-please-install-an-opera... -- by moderator.

 I got the same message and after doing some research I discovered I hadn't installed updated drivers, and that led me to this website. Now I can't find them? What do I have to do?

[WAWood]

@PiXil8 

This is not a drivers issue.

This issue is often due to a failing drive. So, let's check that first, because if it is failing, it would need to be replaced and there is no point then in doing anything else until we confirm that.

If your PC is new enough to support UEFI, you can use these steps to test the hard drive: http://support.hp.com/us-en/document/c00439024

If not, to check the drive you have to follow these steps:
1) Press Esc key repeatedly, several times a second, while rebooting the laptop. Do NOT hold the key down, just press it over and over.
2) Eventually, you will see an HP Startup Menu
3) Press the Function key for testing the hard drive (usually F2) and let it run.
If the drive checks out OK, then report that and I can provide you options for reinstalling Windows on your PC.