New laptop. Sims 2 cheats help?

So I got a new laptop for Christmas and loaded the Sims 2 and some of the expansion packs and stuff packs. But it won't let me use ANY cheat codes. It won't even let me pull up the cheat box. The laptop is a HP. I don't know what version since I got it for Christmas. All I know is that it's the same one that is used in the "Fergie HP Laptop" commercial. If that helps. I seriously cannot stand playing the Sims 2 without cheats. Soooooo..... I really need some help. Anyone have any ideas? 10 points to anyone who solves my problem.