Unlocking bitlocker on hp elitebook 840

[deoge3278]

I feel really dumb because im sure im going about this wrong. I apologize. Im a total novice at most everything associated with PC repair or updating. However u want 2 say it. I was just given a Hp elitebook 840 with windows 7. At least it has the windows 7 sticker on it. I haven't been able 2 open it 2 actually find out. It has bitlocker on it. And I went 2 a previous thread that has the step by step how 2 unlock bitlocker. And I understand what it says 2 do and see the same things it shows n the "how 2", so here's my silly little question. There are letters n every recovery ID shown and I can't enter letters only numbers. And that's it. That's my issue. There also seems 2 b a problem with the battery where I have 2 let it charge FOREVER and then only have about 10 minutes b4 it dies and have 2 start the whole charging process again. Since the laptop was free I was wanting 2 make sure it works (system wise) b4 dropping the cash 4 a new battery. Or if maybe the bitlocker may have something 2 do with its issue of shutting down?? I ddoubt it but with my limited knowledge I have no idea. Any help is better than me left 2 my own devices. Thank u

 

[Layback Bear]

If I'm understanding your post correctly.
1. The system is encrypted with Bitlocker
2. You system will not run on the battery
3. You laptop will run off wall outlet power.

If all that is true your laptop will never work with the drive that is encrypted.
You need the key for the encryption to unlock the encrypted drive.
Or you could install a new drive and install Window and start from scratch.
Your laptop must not loose power when you are installing Windows.

Encryption is done for a reason. So only the one with the key can see and use the data.

 

[deoge3278]

U r correct. And like i said it was just given 2 me so I have no desire 2 save or even view anything that's on the drive. And I really only watch movies, play a few games (nothing with with great graphics) and MSG occasionally. Do u think with my limited knowledge and understanding I could do this myself? Or would u suggest I take it 2 a PC repair place?

 

[Daggum]

They will tell you some thing similar to what Layback Bear has said. Best bet is to go buy an inexpensive HD for the laptop and do a clean install of W7. After that you can go to the HP download center and download all the needed drivers for your model.

 

[deoge3278]

Awesome. Thank u guys 4 the assistance. And 4 being cool. U might not know it but not all sites like this r the folks as nice ...shocker huh?! Thanks again and take care all

 

[Layback Bear]

Most people on this forum are here to help others and to learn from others.
I'm glade we could help.