How do I start from scratch

I have got a bad situation. My friend purchased a new hp elite book 8440p about a year ago with windows 7 installed. He was recently killed in a flying accident and his wife has given me some of his stuff. Among that stuff was this laptop that she nor I could access since it was locked. I would basically like to know how to start this computer over as if it were new and return it to her. I know there isn't anything she needs off it as it was his unit he used while tuning cars. Is there a way for me to start this unit over like new or are we holding a useless unit. Please keep in mind I am not real computer savvy so please be gentle.

Thanks for the help.

Jeremy

Great!!! Thank you so much. I am sure I will have questions so be warned. Lol

Brink said:

Hello Jeremy, and welcome to Seven Forums.

I'm sorry to hear about your friend.

You could use the tutorial below to do a clean install on the laptop. You'll need to have the product key on the bottom or under the battery on the laptop.

Clean Reinstall - Factory OEM Windows 7

Hope this helps, :)
Shawn

EDIT:
VK beat me to it.

Thank you!! I have to say most people do not pass away doing what they love. The only thing he loved more than flying was spending time with his family. I will try this tomorrow and let y'all know how it goes.

Thanks again.

VistaKing said:

If you let me know what version of Windows 7 you will be installing I could get you the Drivers .

How do I determine that?

Windows 7 pro oa