If an HP EliteBook with HP Sure Start BIOS does not boot and LEDs blink 8 times, what should you first ask?

When evaluating the situation where an HP EliteBook with HP Sure Start BIOS does not boot and the LEDs blink 8 times, the first question to ask should focus on the state of the BIOS configuration and recovery options. The correct approach is to inquire whether they have set the BIOS to Manual Recovery.

HP Sure Start is designed to protect the BIOS and recover it if corrupt or compromised. If the machine indicates a failure to boot through the LED blinking pattern, it could signal that the BIOS is in a state that can't complete the system boot sequence. Asking about Manual Recovery specifically addresses the possibility that the user has attempted to recover the BIOS manually, which could further complicate the boot process if not done correctly.

This line of questioning is crucial as it helps narrow down the root cause of the boot failure to the BIOS settings, allowing the technician to understand if user actions may have inadvertently led to the issue. Ensuring the BIOS is configured correctly is essential for successful boot-up and functionality of the device.