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Create an account on the HP Community to personalize your profile and ask a question
09-06-2023 08:48 AM
Welcome to our HP User Forum!
Determining whether an HP computer has been refurbished can be important if you're looking to buy a used computer and want to know its history. Here are several steps you can take to check if an HP computer has been refurbished:
Check the physical condition:
- Examine the computer's physical condition. Refurbished computers often show signs of wear and tear, such as scratches, scuffs, or dents. If the computer looks brand new, it's less likely to be refurbished.
Look for refurbishing labels or markings:
- Check the computer's exterior for any labels or markings that indicate it has been refurbished. These labels may include terms like "Certified Refurbished," "Factory Refurbished," or "Renewed."
Check the packaging and accessories:
- If the computer comes with its original packaging and accessories (e.g., manuals, power cords, original keyboard, mouse), it's less likely to be refurbished. Refurbished units often come in plain or generic packaging.
Review the warranty status:
- Check the computer's warranty status with HP (see: https://support.hp.com/us-en/check-warranty/multiple-products-summary). Refurbished computers may have a shorter warranty period than brand new ones. You can use HP's warranty check tool on their website or contact HP customer support to verify the warranty status of the computer.
Check the system information:
- On Windows computers, you can check the system information to see if there are any indications that the computer has been refurbished. Here's how: a. Press the Windows key + Pause/Break key to open the System window. b. Look for any information related to the computer's status or history.
Contact the seller:
- If you're buying the computer from a seller, ask them directly if the computer has been refurbished. A reputable seller should be transparent about the product's history.
Check for software remnants:
- Sometimes, refurbished computers may still have software remnants from their previous use. Look for any installed programs, user profiles, or files that suggest prior usage.
Run hardware diagnostics:
- Some manufacturers provide built-in hardware diagnostic tools that can help you assess the condition of the computer. HP, for instance, offers the HP PC Hardware Diagnostics utility (see: https://support.hp.com/us-en), which can be accessed during startup by pressing the F2 key. Running these diagnostics may provide information about the computer's history and condition.
Get a professional inspection:
- If you're unsure about the computer's status, consider taking it to a professional technician for an inspection. They can assess the hardware and look for any signs of refurbishment.
Remember that buying from reputable sellers and asking questions about the computer's history can help you make an informed decision. If the price seems too good to be true for a supposedly new computer, it's a good idea to exercise caution and investigate further to ensure you're getting what you expect.
Hope this was helpful.
Kind Regards,
NonSequitur777