Lenovo Laptop 1996 User Manual
ThinkCentre  
User Guide  
Machine Types: 1996, 1997, 2002, 2010, 2208, 2209, 2221, 2224,  
2226, and 2227  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Contents  
Important safety information . . . . . . v  
Accessibility and comfort  
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Service and upgrades .  
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v
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vi  
Arranging your workspace .  
Static electricity prevention.  
Comfort  
Glare and lighting.  
Air circulation .  
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Power cords and power adapters .  
Extension cords and related devices .  
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Plugs and outlets.  
External devices .  
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vii  
vii  
vii  
viii  
viii  
ix  
Electrical outlets and cable lengths .  
Register your computer with Lenovo .  
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Heat and product ventilation .  
Moving your computer to another country or  
region .  
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21  
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Operating environment  
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Voltage-selection switch .  
Replacement power cords .  
Modem safety information .  
Laser compliance statement .  
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Power supply statement .  
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ix  
ix  
Chapter 4. Security . . . . . . . . . . 23  
Cleaning and maintenance .  
Security features .  
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Attaching an integrated cable lock .  
Chapter 1. Product overview . . . . . . 1  
Using passwords.  
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Features .  
Specifications .  
Software overview .  
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1
4
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7
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BIOS passwords .  
Windows passwords  
Configuring the fingerprint reader .  
Using and understanding firewalls .  
Software provided by Lenovo .  
Adobe Reader .  
Antivirus software.  
Locations. .  
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Protecting data against viruses .  
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Chapter 5. Installing or replacing  
hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27  
Handling static-sensitive devices  
Installing or replacing hardware .  
Locating connectors, controls, and indicators  
on the front of your computer .  
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27  
27  
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28  
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Locating connectors on the rear of your  
computer .  
Locating components .  
Locating parts on the system board  
Locating internal drives  
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Installing external options  
Opening the computer cover .  
Removing and reinstalling the front bezel  
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Accessing the system board components and  
Machine type and model label.  
drives  
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48  
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Installing or replacing a memory module.  
Installing or replacing a PCI card .  
Installing or replacing the card reader .  
Replacing the battery .  
Replacing the hard disk drive .  
Replacing the optical drive .  
Replacing the heat sink and fan assembly .  
Replacing the power supply assembly  
Chapter 2. Using your computer . . . 15  
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Frequently asked questions  
Using the keyboard . .  
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Using Windows shortcut keys .  
Using a fingerprint reader  
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Using the wheel mouse .  
Adjusting audio .  
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About your computer audio .  
Setting the volume from the desktop .  
Setting the volume from Control Panel  
Replacing the microprocessor .  
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Replacing the front audio and USB  
assembly .  
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56  
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Using CDs and DVDs .  
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Replacing the system fan.  
Replacing the internal speaker.  
Replacing the keyboard or mouse .  
Completing the parts replacement .  
Handling and storing CD and DVD media  
Playing a CD or DVD  
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Recording a CD or DVD .  
Chapter 3. You and your computer . . 19  
© Copyright Lenovo 2011, 2012  
i
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Chapter 6. Recovery information . . . 65  
Basics .  
Cleaning your computer .  
Good maintenance practices .  
Moving your computer  
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82  
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84  
Creating and using recovery media  
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Creating recovery media .  
Using recovery media .  
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Performing backup and recovery operations .  
Chapter 10. Troubleshooting and  
diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85  
Basic troubleshooting .  
Troubleshooting procedure .  
Troubleshooting .  
Performing a backup operation  
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Performing a recovery operation .  
Using the Rescue and Recovery workspace .  
Creating and using a rescue medium .  
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85  
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Creating a rescue medium .  
Using a rescue medium  
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Audio problems  
CD problems  
DVD problems .  
Intermittent problems .  
Keyboard, mouse, or pointing device  
problems .  
Monitor problems.  
Networking problems .  
Option problems .  
Performance and lockup problems .  
Printer problems .  
Serial port problems.  
Software problems .  
USB problems .  
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Reinstalling preinstalled applications and device  
drivers .  
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69  
70  
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Reinstalling software programs .  
Reinstalling device drivers .  
Solving recovery problems .  
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91  
92  
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97  
98  
Chapter 7. Using the Setup Utility  
program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73  
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Starting the Setup Utility program .  
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73  
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Viewing and changing settings  
Using passwords.  
Password considerations.  
Power-On Password  
Administrator Password .  
Hard Disk Password.  
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99  
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Diagnostic programs .  
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Lenovo Solution Center  
Lenovo ThinkVantage Toolbox .  
PC-Doctor for DOS .  
Setting, changing, and deleting a password  
Erasing lost or forgotten passwords (clearing  
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CMOS) .  
Enabling or disabling a device  
Selecting a startup device .  
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75  
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76  
76  
Chapter 11. Getting information, help,  
and service . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105  
Information resources .  
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105  
105  
105  
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Selecting a temporary startup device .  
Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools .  
Lenovo Welcome .  
Help and Support.  
Safety and Warranty.  
Lenovo Web site (http://www.lenovo.com) .  
Selecting or changing the startup device  
sequence .  
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Enabling ErP compliance mode .  
Exiting the Setup Utility program  
Chapter 8. Updating system  
programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79  
Lenovo Support Web site.  
Help and service .  
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106  
106  
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Using system programs .  
Updating (flashing) the BIOS from a disc  
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79  
79  
Using the documentation and diagnostic  
programs .  
Calling for service.  
Using other services  
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106  
106  
107  
107  
Updating (flashing) the BIOS from your operating  
system.  
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80  
80  
Recovering from a POST/BIOS update failure  
Purchasing additional services  
Chapter 9. Preventing problems . . . 81  
Appendix A. Notices. . . . . . . . . 109  
Keeping your computer current .  
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Trademarks .  
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110  
Getting the latest device drivers for your  
computer .  
Updating your operating system .  
Using System Update .  
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81  
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81  
82  
Appendix B. Regulatory  
information . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111  
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Export classification notice .  
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111  
Cleaning and maintenance .  
ii ThinkCentre User Guide  
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Television output notice .  
Electronic emissions notices .  
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111  
111  
Battery recycling information for the European  
Union .  
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117  
Federal Communications Commission  
Appendix D. Restriction of Hazardous  
Substances Directive (RoHS) . . . . 119  
Declaration of Conformity  
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111  
113  
Additional regulatory information  
China RoHS.  
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119  
119  
119  
120  
Turkish RoHS .  
Ukraine RoHS .  
Appendix C. WEEE and recycling  
information . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115  
Important WEEE Information .  
Recycling information . .  
Recycling information for Brazil .  
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116  
India RoHS .  
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Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121  
Battery recycling information for Taiwan.  
© Copyright Lenovo 2011, 2012  
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iv ThinkCentre User Guide  
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Important safety information  
CAUTION:  
Before using this manual, be sure to read and understand all the related safety information for this  
product. Refer to the information in this section and the safety information in the ThinkCentre Safety  
and Warranty Guide that you received with this product. Reading and understanding this safety  
information reduces the risk of personal injury and damage to your product.  
If you no longer have a copy of the ThinkCentre Safety and Warranty Guide, you can obtain a Portable  
Document Format (PDF) version from the Lenovo® Support Web site at http://www.lenovo.com/support. The  
Lenovo Support Web site also provides the ThinkCentre Safety and Warranty Guide and this ThinkCentre  
User Guide in additional languages.  
Service and upgrades  
Do not attempt to service a product yourself unless instructed to do so by the Customer Support Center or  
your documentation. Only use a Service Provider who is approved to repair your particular product.  
Note: Some computer parts can be upgraded or replaced by the customer. Upgrades typically are  
referred to as options. Replacement parts approved for customer installation are referred to as Customer  
Replaceable Units, or CRUs. Lenovo provides documentation with instructions when it is appropriate for  
customers to install options or replace CRUs. You must closely follow all instructions when installing or  
replacing parts. The Off state of a power indicator does not necessarily mean that voltage levels inside a  
product are zero. Before you remove the covers from a product equipped with a power cord, always make  
sure that the power is turned off and that the product is unplugged from any power source. For more  
information on CRUs, refer to Chapter 5 “Installing or replacing hardware” on page 27. If you have any  
questions or concerns, contact the Customer Support Center.  
Although there are no moving parts in your computer after the power cord has been disconnected, the  
following warnings are required for your safety.  
CAUTION:  
Hazardous moving parts. Keep fingers and other body parts away.  
CAUTION:  
Before replacing any CRUs, turn off the computer and wait three to five minutes to let the computer  
cool before opening the cover.  
Static electricity prevention  
Static electricity, although harmless to you, can seriously damage computer components and options.  
Improper handling of static-sensitive parts can cause damage to the part. When you unpack an option  
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or CRU, do not open the static-protective package containing the part until the instructions direct you  
to install it.  
When you handle options or CRUs, or perform any work inside the computer, take the following precautions  
to avoid static-electricity damage:  
• Limit your movement. Movement can cause static electricity to build up around you.  
• Always handle components carefully. Handle adapters, memory modules, and other circuit boards by the  
edges. Never touch exposed circuitry.  
• Prevent others from touching components.  
• When you install a static-sensitive option or CRU, touch the static-protective package containing the  
part to a metal expansion-slot cover or other unpainted metal surface on the computer for at least two  
seconds. This reduces static electricity in the package and your body.  
• When possible, remove the static-sensitive part from the static-protective packaging and install the part  
without setting it down. When this is not possible, place the static-protective packaging on a smooth,  
level surface and place the part on it.  
• Do not place the part on the computer cover or other metal surface.  
Power cords and power adapters  
Use only the power cords and power adapters supplied by the product manufacturer.  
The power cords shall be safety approved. For Germany, it shall be H05VV-F, 3G, 0.75 mm2, or better. For  
other countries, the suitable types shall be used accordingly.  
Never wrap a power cord around a power adapter or other object. Doing so can stress the cord in ways that  
can cause the cord to fray, crack, or crimp. This can present a safety hazard.  
Always route power cords so that they will not be walked on, tripped over, or pinched by objects.  
Protect power cord and power adapters from liquids. For instance, do not leave your power cord or power  
adapter near sinks, tubs, toilets, or on floors that are cleaned with liquid cleansers. Liquids can cause a  
short circuit, particularly if the power cord or power adapter has been stressed by misuse. Liquids also can  
cause gradual corrosion of power cord terminals and/or the connector terminals on a power adapter,  
which can eventually result in overheating.  
Always connect power cords and signal cables in the correct order and ensure that all power cord  
connectors are securely and completely plugged into receptacles.  
Do not use any power adapter that shows corrosion at the ac input pins or shows signs of overheating (such  
as deformed plastic) at the ac input or anywhere on the power adapter.  
Do not use any power cords where the electrical contacts on either end show signs of corrosion or  
overheating or where the power cord appears to have been damaged in any way.  
Extension cords and related devices  
Ensure that extension cords, surge protectors, uninterruptible power supplies, and power strips that you use  
are rated to handle the electrical requirements of the product. Never overload these devices. If power strips  
are used, the load should not exceed the power strip input rating. Consult an electrician for more information  
if you have questions about power loads, power requirements, and input ratings.  
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Plugs and outlets  
If a receptacle (power outlet) that you intend to use with your computer equipment appears to be damaged  
or corroded, do not use the outlet until it is replaced by a qualified electrician.  
Do not bend or modify the plug. If the plug is damaged, contact the manufacturer to obtain a replacement.  
Do not share an electrical outlet with other home or commercial appliances that draw large amounts of  
electricity; otherwise, unstable voltage might damage your computer, data, or attached devices.  
Some products are equipped with a three-pronged plug. This plug fits only into a grounded electrical outlet.  
This is a safety feature. Do not defeat this safety feature by trying to insert it into a non-grounded outlet. If  
you cannot insert the plug into the outlet, contact an electrician for an approved outlet adapter or to replace  
the outlet with one that enables this safety feature. Never overload an electrical outlet. The overall system  
load should not exceed 80 percent of the branch circuit rating. Consult an electrician for more information  
if you have questions about power loads and branch circuit ratings.  
Be sure that the power outlet you are using is properly wired, easily accessible, and located close to the  
equipment. Do not fully extend power cords in a way that will stress the cords.  
Be sure that the power outlet provides the correct voltage and current for the product you are installing.  
Carefully connect and disconnect the equipment from the electrical outlet.  
External devices  
Do not connect or disconnect any external device cables other than Universal Serial Bus (USB) and 1394  
cables while the computer power is on; otherwise, you might damage your computer. To avoid possible  
damage to attached devices, wait at least five seconds after the computer is shut down to disconnect  
external devices.  
Heat and product ventilation  
Computers, power adapters, and many accessories can generate heat when turned on and when batteries  
are charging. Always follow these basic precautions:  
• Do not leave your computer, power adapter, or accessories in contact with your lap or any part of your  
body for an extended period when the products are functioning or when the battery is charging. Your  
computer, power adapter, and many accessories produce some heat during normal operation. Extended  
contact with the body could cause discomfort or, potentially, a skin burn.  
• Do not charge the battery or operate your computer, power adapter, or accessories near flammable  
materials or in explosive environments.  
• Ventilation slots, fans, and heat sinks are provided with the product for safety, comfort, and reliable  
operation. These features might inadvertently become blocked by placing the product on a bed, sofa,  
carpet, or other flexible surface. Never block, cover, or disable these features.  
Inspect your desktop computer for dust accumulation at least once every three months. Before inspecting  
your computer, turn off the power and unplug the computer's power cord from the electrical outlet; then  
remove any dust from vents and perforations in the bezel. If you notice external dust accumulation, then  
examine and remove dust from the inside of the computer including heat sink inlet fins, power supply vents,  
and fans. Always turn off and unplug the computer before opening the cover. If possible, avoid operating  
your computer within two feet of high-traffic areas. If you must operate your computer in or near a high-traffic  
area, inspect and, if necessary, clean your computer more frequently.  
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For your safety and to maintain optimum computer performance, always follow these basic precautions  
with your desktop computer:  
• Keep the cover closed whenever the computer is plugged in.  
• Regularly inspect the outside of the computer for dust accumulation.  
• Remove dust from vents and any perforations in the bezel. More frequent cleanings might be required for  
computers in dusty or high-traffic areas.  
• Do not restrict or block any ventilation openings.  
• Do not store or operate your computer inside furniture, as this might increase the risk of overheating.  
• Airflow temperatures into the computer should not exceed 35°C (95°F).  
• Do not install air filtration devices. They may interfere with proper cooling.  
Operating environment  
The optimal environment in which to use your computer is 10°C-35°C (50°F-95°F) with humidity ranging  
between 35% and 80%. If your computer is stored or transported in temperatures less than 10°C (50°F),  
allow the cold computer to rise slowly to an optimal operating temperature of 10°C-35°C (50°F-95°F) before  
use. This process could take two hours in extreme conditions. Failure to allow your computer to rise to an  
optimal operating temperature before use could result in irreparable damage to your computer.  
If possible, place your computer in a well-ventilated and dry area without direct exposure to sunshine.  
Keep electrical appliances such as an electric fan, radio, high-powered speakers, air conditioner, and  
microwave oven away from your computer because the strong magnetic fields generated by these  
appliances can damage the monitor and data on the hard disk drive.  
Do not place any beverages on top of or beside the computer or other attached devices. If liquid is spilled on  
or in the computer or an attached device, a short circuit or other damage might occur.  
Do not eat or smoke over your keyboard. Particles that fall into your keyboard can cause damage.  
Modem safety information  
CAUTION:  
To reduce the risk of fire, use only No. 26 AWG or larger (for example, No. 24 AWG) telecommunication  
line cord listed by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) or certified by the Canadian Standards Association  
(CSA).  
To reduce the risk of fire, electrical shock, or injury when using telephone equipment, always follow basic  
safety precautions, such as:  
• Never install telephone wiring during a lightning storm.  
• Never install telephone jacks in wet locations unless the jack is specifically designed for wet locations.  
• Never touch uninsulated telephone wires or terminals unless the telephone line has been disconnected at  
the network interface.  
• Use caution when installing or modifying telephone lines.  
• Avoid using a telephone (other than a cordless type) during an electrical storm. There may be a remote  
risk of electric shock from lightning.  
• Do not use the telephone to report a gas leak in the vicinity of the leak.  
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Laser compliance statement  
CAUTION:  
When laser products (such as CD-ROMs, DVD drives, fiber optic devices, or transmitters) are  
installed, note the following:  
• Do not remove the covers. Removing the covers of the laser product could result in exposure to  
hazardous laser radiation. There are no serviceable parts inside the device.  
• Use of controls or adjustments or performance of procedures other than those specified herein  
might result in hazardous radiation exposure.  
DANGER  
Some laser products contain an embedded Class 3A or Class 3B laser diode. Note the following.  
Laser radiation when open. Do not stare into the beam, do not view directly with optical  
instruments, and avoid direct exposure to the beam.  
Power supply statement  
Never remove the cover on a power supply or any part that has the following label attached.  
Hazardous voltage, current, and energy levels are present inside any component that has this label attached.  
There are no serviceable parts inside these components. If you suspect a problem with one of these parts,  
contact a service technician.  
Cleaning and maintenance  
Keep your computer and workspace clean. Shut down the computer and then disconnect the power  
cord before cleaning the computer. Do not spray any liquid detergent directly on the computer or use  
any detergent containing flammable material to clean the computer. Spray the detergent on a soft cloth  
and then wipe the computer surfaces.  
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Chapter 1. Product overview  
This chapter provides information about the computer features, specifications, software programs provided  
by Lenovo, and locations of connectors, components, parts on the system board, and internal drives.  
Features  
This section introduces the computer features. The information covers a variety of models.  
To view the information about your specific model, do one of the following:  
• Go into the Setup Utility program by following the instructions in Chapter 7 “Using the Setup Utility  
program” on page 73. Then, select Main ➙ System Summary to view the information.  
• In the Windows environment, click Start, right-click Computer, and select Properties to view the  
information.  
Microprocessor  
Your computer comes with one of the following microprocessors (internal cache size varies by model type):  
• AMD® Sempron™ microprocessor  
• AMD Athlon™ II microprocessor  
• AMD Phenom™ II microprocessor  
• AMD FX series microprocessor  
Memory  
Your computer supports up to four double data rate 3 unbuffered dual inline memory modules (DDR3  
UDIMMs).  
Internal drives  
• Optical drive: DVD-ROM or DVD-Recordable (optional)  
• Serial Advanced Technology Attachment (SATA) hard disk drive  
Note: Your computer supports SATA 3.0 devices. For more information, see “Locating parts on the  
system board” on page 12.  
Video subsystem  
• Integrated graphics for a Video Graphics Array (VGA) connector and a DisplayPort connector  
• Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) Express x16 graphics card slot on the system board for a  
discrete graphics card  
Audio subsystem  
• Integrated high-definition (HD) audio  
• Audio line-in connector, audio line-out connector, and microphone connector on the rear panel  
• Microphone connector and headphone connector on the front panel  
• Internal speaker (installed in some models)  
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Connectivity  
• 100/1000 Mbps integrated Ethernet controller  
• PCI Express Fax modem (some models)  
System management features  
• Ability to store power-on self-test (POST) hardware test results  
• Desktop Management Interface (DMI)  
Desktop Management Interface provides a common path for users to access information about all  
aspects of a computer, including processor type, installation date, attached printers and other peripherals,  
power sources, and maintenance history.  
• ErP compliance mode  
The energy-related products directive (ErP) compliance mode reduces the consumption of electricity  
when your computer is in standby or off mode. For more information, see “Enabling ErP compliance  
mode” on page 76.  
• Preboot Execution Environment (PXE)  
The Preboot Execution Environment is an environment to start computers using a network interface  
independent of data storage devices (such as the hard disk drive) or installed operating systems.  
• System Management (SM) Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) and SM software  
The SM BIOS specification defines data structures and access methods in a BIOS that allows a user or  
application to store and retrieve information specific about the computer in question.  
• Wake on LAN  
Wake on LAN is an Ethernet computer networking standard that allows a computer to be turned on  
or woken up by a network message. The message is usually sent by a program running on another  
computer on the same local area network.  
• Wake on Ring  
Wake on Ring, sometimes referred to as Wake on Modem, is a specification that allows supported  
computers and devices to resume from sleep or hibernation mode.  
• Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI)  
Windows Management Instrumentation is a set of extensions to the Windows Driver Model. It provides an  
operating system interface through which instrumented components provide information and notification.  
Input/Output (I/O) features  
• 9-pin serial port (one standard and one optional)  
• Eight Universal Serial Bus (USB) connectors (two on the front panel and six on the rear panel)  
• One Ethernet connector  
• One DisplayPort connector  
• One VGA monitor connector  
• One Personal System/2 (PS/2) keyboard connector (optional)  
• One PS/2 mouse connector (optional)  
• Three audio connectors on the rear panel (audio line-in connector, audio line-out connector, and  
microphone connector)  
• Two audio connectors on the front panel (microphone connector and headphone connector)  
For more information, see “Locating connectors, controls, and indicators on the front of your computer” on  
page 8 and “Locating connectors on the rear of your computer” on page 9.  
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Expansion  
• One hard disk drive bay  
• One optical drive bay  
• One PCI card slot  
• Two PCI Express x1 card slots  
• One PCI Express x16 graphics card slot  
Power supply  
Your computer comes with a 240-watt automatic voltage-sensing power supply.  
Security features  
• Computrace Agent software embedded in firmware  
• Cover presence switch (also called intrusion switch)  
• Ability to enable or disable SATA devices  
• Ability to enable and disable USB connectors individually  
• Keyboard with fingerprint reader (shipped with some models)  
• Power-on password (POP), administrator password, and hard disk drive password to deter unauthorized  
use of your computer  
• Startup sequence control  
• Startup without keyboard or mouse  
• Support for an integrated cable lock (Kensington lock)  
• Trusted Platform Module (TPM)  
For more information, see Chapter 4 “Security” on page 23.  
Preinstalled software programs  
Your computer is preinstalled with software programs to help you work more easily and securely. For more  
information, see “Software overview” on page 4.  
Preinstalled operating system  
Your computer is preinstalled with the Microsoft® Windows® 7 operating system.  
Operating system(s), certified or tested for compatibility1 (varies by model type)  
• Linux®  
• Microsoft Windows XP Professional SP 3  
1. The operating system(s) listed here are being certified or tested for compatibility at the time this publication goes to  
press. Additional operating systems might be identified by Lenovo as compatible with your computer following the  
publication of this manual. This list is subject to change. To determine if an operating system has been certified or  
tested for compatibility, check the Web site of the operating system vendor.  
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Specifications  
This section lists the physical specifications for your computer.  
Dimensions  
Width: 338 mm (13.31 inches)  
Height: 99.7 mm (3.93 inches)  
Depth: 385.4 mm (15.17 inches)  
Weight  
Maximum configuration as shipped: 7.5 kg (16.53 lb)  
Environment  
• Air temperature:  
Operating: 10°C to 35°C (50°F to 95°F)  
Storage: -40°C to 60°C (-40°F to 140°F) in original shipping package  
Storage: -10°C to 60°C (14°F to 140°F) without package  
• Humidity:  
Operating: 20% to 80% (non-condensing)  
Storage: 20% to 90% (non-condensing)  
• Altitude:  
Operating: -50 to 10 000 ft (-15.2 to 3 048 m)  
Storage: -50 to 35 000 ft (-15.2 to 10 668 m)  
Electrical input  
• Input voltage:  
– Low range:  
Minimum: 100 V ac  
Maximum: 127 V ac  
Input frequency range: 50 to 60 Hz  
– High range:  
Minimum: 200 V ac  
Maximum: 240 V ac  
Input frequency range: 50 to 60 Hz  
Software overview  
The computer comes with a preinstalled operating system and several software programs provided by  
Lenovo.  
Software provided by Lenovo  
The following software programs are provided by Lenovo to help you improve productivity and reduce the  
cost associated with maintaining your computer. Software programs provided with your computer might  
vary depending on your computer model type and preinstalled operating system.  
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Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools  
The Lenovo ThinkVantage® Tools program guides you to a host of information sources and provides easy  
access to various tools to help you work more easily and securely.  
To access the Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools program, click Start ➙ All Programs ➙ Lenovo ThinkVantage  
Tools.  
The following table lists the programs that you can access from the Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools program. To  
access a program, double-click the corresponding icon.  
Table 1. Program icon names in Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools  
Program name  
Create Recovery Media  
Fingerprint Software  
Lenovo Solution Center or Lenovo ThinkVantage Toolbox System Health and Diagnostics  
Icon name in Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools  
Factory Recovery Disks  
Fingerprint Reader  
ThinkVantage Password Manager  
ThinkVantage Power Manager  
ThinkVantage Rescue and Recovery®  
ThinkVantage System Update  
Password Vault  
Power Controls  
Enhanced Backup and Restore  
Update and Drives  
Lenovo Welcome  
The Lenovo Welcome program introduces you to some innovative built-in features of Lenovo and guides you  
through a few important setup tasks to help you make the most of your computer.  
Fingerprint Software  
The integrated fingerprint reader provided on some keyboards enables you to enroll your fingerprint and  
associate it with your power-on password, hard disk drive password, and Windows password. As a result,  
fingerprint authentication can replace passwords and enable simple and secure user access. A fingerprint  
reader keyboard is available with select computers or can be purchased for computers that support this  
option.  
Lenovo Solution Center  
Note: Depending on the date when your computer was manufactured, your computer is preinstalled with  
either the Lenovo Solution Center program or the Lenovo ThinkVantage Toolbox program for diagnostic  
purposes. For additional information about the Lenovo ThinkVantage Toolbox program, see “Lenovo  
ThinkVantage Toolbox” on page 102.  
The Lenovo Solution Center program enables you to troubleshoot and resolve computer problems. It  
combines diagnostic tests, system information collection, security status, and support information, along  
with hints and tips for maximum system performance. See “Lenovo Solution Center” on page 102 for  
detailed information.  
SimpleTap  
The SimpleTap program provides you with a quick way to customize some basic computer settings such as  
muting the speakers, adjusting the volume, locking the computer operating system, launching a program,  
opening a Web page, opening a file, and so on. You also can use the SimpleTap program to access the  
Lenovo App Shop, from which you can download various applications and computer software.  
To start the SimpleTap program, do any of the following:  
• Click Start ➙ All Programs ➙ SimpleTap.  
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• Click Start ➙ All Programs ➙ Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools, and double-click SimpleTap.  
• Click the red SimpleTap launch point on the desktop. The red launch point is available on the desktop  
after you have launched the SimpleTap program for the first time.  
• Press the blue ThinkVantage button if your keyboard has one.  
Note: The SimpleTap program is only available on certain models preinstalled with the Windows 7 operating  
system. If your Windows 7 model is not preinstalled with the SimpleTap program, you can download it  
from http://www.lenovo.com/simpletap.  
Lenovo ThinkVantage Toolbox  
Note: Depending on the date when your computer was manufactured, your computer is preinstalled with  
either the Lenovo Solution Center program or the Lenovo ThinkVantage Toolbox program for diagnostic  
purposes. For additional information about the Lenovo Solution Center program, see “Lenovo Solution  
Center” on page 102.  
The Lenovo ThinkVantage Toolbox program helps you maintain your computer, improve computing security,  
diagnose computer problems, get familiar with the innovative technologies provided by Lenovo, and get more  
information about your computer. See “Lenovo ThinkVantage Toolbox” on page 102 for detailed information.  
Product Recovery  
The Product Recovery program enables you to restore the contents of the hard disk drive to the factory  
default settings.  
ThinkVantage Password Manager  
The ThinkVantage Password Manager program automatically captures and fills in authentication information  
for Windows applications and Web sites.  
Notes: If the Password Vault icon in the Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools program is dimmed, it indicates that  
you need to install the ThinkVantage Password Manager program manually before enabling its features. To  
install the ThinkVantage Password Manager program, do the following:  
1. Click Start ➙ All Programs ➙ Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools, and double-click Password Vault.  
2. Follow the instructions on the screen.  
3. When the installation process completes, the Password Vault icon is activated.  
ThinkVantage Power Manager  
The ThinkVantage Power Manager program provides convenient, flexible, and complete power management  
for your ThinkCentre® computer. By using the ThinkVantage Power Manager program, you can adjust your  
power settings to achieve the best balance between system performance and power saving.  
ThinkVantage Rescue and Recovery  
The ThinkVantage Rescue and Recovery program is a one button recovery and restore solution that includes  
a set of self-recovery tools to help you diagnose computer problems, get help, and recover from system  
crashes, even if you cannot start the Windows operating system.  
Note: If the Enhanced Backup and Restore icon in the Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools program is dimmed, it  
indicates that you need to install the ThinkVantage Rescue and Recovery program manually before enabling  
its features. To install the ThinkVantage Rescue and Recovery program, do the following:  
1. Click Start ➙ All Programs ➙ Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools, and double-click Enhanced Backup  
and Restore.  
2. Follow the instructions on the screen.  
3. When the installation process completes, the Enhanced Backup and Restore icon is activated.  
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ThinkVantage System Update  
The ThinkVantage System Update program helps you keep the software on your computer up-to-date by  
downloading and installing software packages (ThinkVantage applications, device drivers, BIOS updates,  
and other third party applications).  
Adobe Reader  
The Adobe Reader program is a tool used to view, print, and search PDF documents.  
Antivirus software  
Your computer comes with antivirus software that you can use to detect and eliminate viruses. Lenovo  
provides a full version of antivirus software on your hard disk drive with a free 30-day subscription. After 30  
days, you must renew the license to continue receiving the antivirus program updates.  
Locations  
This section provides information to help you locate the connectors on the front and rear of your computer,  
parts on the system board, and components and internal drives in your computer.  
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Locating connectors, controls, and indicators on the front of your  
computer  
Figure 1 “Front connector, control, and indicator locations” on page 8 shows the locations of the connectors,  
controls, and indicators on the front of your computer.  
Figure 1. Front connector, control, and indicator locations  
1 Optical drive eject/close button  
2 Power switch  
5 USB connector (USB port 2)  
6 Microphone connector  
3 Hard disk drive activity indicator  
4 Power indicator  
7 Headphone connector  
8 USB connector (USB port 1)  
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Locating connectors on the rear of your computer  
Figure 2 “Rear connector locations” on page 9 shows the locations of the connectors on the rear of your  
computer. Some connectors on the rear of your computer are color-coded to help you determine where to  
connect the cables on your computer.  
Figure 2. Rear connector locations  
1 Power cord connector  
10 PCI Express x1 card slots (2)  
11 PCI card slot  
2 Serial port (Serial port 1)  
3 VGA monitor connector  
4 DisplayPort connector  
12 Optional serial port (Serial port 2)  
13 Cable lock slots (2)  
14 Ethernet connector  
5 USB connectors (USB ports 3 to 8)  
6 Microphone connector  
15 Integrated cable lock (Kingston lock) slot  
16 Cover-release button  
7 Audio line-out connector  
8 Audio line-in connector  
17 PS/2 keyboard and mouse connectors (optional)  
9 PCI Express x16 graphics card slot  
Connector  
Description  
Audio line-in connector  
Audio line-out connector  
Used to receive audio signals from an external audio device, such as a stereo  
system. When you attach an external audio device, a cable is connected between  
the audio line-out connector of the device and the audio line-in connector of the  
computer.  
Used to send audio signals from the computer to external devices, such as  
powered stereo speakers (speakers with built-in amplifiers), headphones,  
multimedia keyboards, or the audio line-in connector on a stereo system or other  
external recording device.  
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Connector  
Description  
DisplayPort connector  
Used to attach a high-performance monitor, a direct-drive monitor, or other  
devices that use a DisplayPort connector.  
Ethernet connector  
Used to attach an Ethernet cable for a local area network (LAN).  
Note: To operate the computer within FCC Class B limits, use a Category 5  
Ethernet cable.  
Microphone connector  
Serial port  
Used to attach a microphone to your computer when you want to record sound or  
if you use speech-recognition software.  
Used to attach an external modem, a serial printer, or other devices that use a  
9-pin serial port.  
PS/2 keyboard connector  
(optional)  
Used to attach a keyboard that uses a PS/2 keyboard connector.  
PS/2 mouse connector (optional) Used to attach a mouse, a trackball, or other pointing devices that use a PS/2  
mouse connector.  
USB connector  
Used to attach a device that requires a USB connector, such as a USB keyboard,  
a USB mouse, a USB scanner or a USB printer. If you have more than eight USB  
devices, you can purchase a USB hub, which you can use to connect additional  
USB devices.  
VGA monitor connector  
Used to attach a VGA monitor or other devices that use a VGA monitor connector.  
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Locating components  
Figure 3 “Component locations” on page 11 shows the locations of the various components in your  
computer. To open the computer cover, see “Opening the computer cover” on page 28.  
Figure 3. Component locations  
1 Heat sink and fan assembly  
2 Microprocessor  
8 System fan  
9 Internal speaker (installed in some models)  
10 Cover presence switch (Intrusion switch)  
11 Hard disk drive  
3 Power supply assembly  
4 Memory module  
5 Optical drive  
12 PCI card (installed in some models)  
13 System board  
6 Front audio and USB assembly  
7 Front bezel  
14 Heat sink fan duct  
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Locating parts on the system board  
Figure 4 “System board part locations” on page 12 shows the locations of the parts on the system board.  
Figure 4. System board part locations  
1 Microprocessor  
14 Front panel connector (for connecting LED indicators and  
power switch)  
2 Microprocessor fan connector  
3 Memory slot 1 (DIMM1)  
4 Memory slot 2 (DIMM3)  
15 Front USB connector 1 (for connecting USB ports 1 and 2  
on the front bezel)  
16 Front USB connectors 2 and 3 (for connecting additional  
USB devices)  
17 Cover presence switch connector (Intrusion switch  
connector)  
5 Memory slot 3 (DIMM2)  
6 Memory slot 4 (DIMM4)  
7 Thermal sensor connector  
8 24-pin power connector  
18 Serial (COM2) connector  
19 Internal speaker connector  
20 Front audio connector  
21 PCI card slot  
9 Clear CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide  
22 PCI Express x1 card slots (2)  
Semiconductor) /Recovery jumper  
10 Battery  
23 PCI Express x16 graphics card slot  
24 System fan connector  
11 Power fan connector  
12 Parallel connector  
13 SATA 3.0 connectors (4)  
25 PS/2 keyboard and mouse connector  
26 4-pin power connector  
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Locating internal drives  
Internal drives are devices that your computer uses to read and store data. You can add drives to your  
computer to increase storage capacity and enable your computer to read other types of media. Internal  
drives are installed in bays. In this manual, the bays are referred to as bay 1, bay 2, and so on. Your  
computer comes with the following factory-installed drives:  
• An optical drive in bay 1  
• A 3.5-inch hard disk drive in bay 3  
When installing or replacing an internal drive, it is important to note the type and size of the drive that you  
can install or replace in each bay and correctly connect the cables to the drive installed. Refer to the  
appropriate section in Chapter 5 “Installing or replacing hardware” on page 27 for instructions on how to  
install or replace internal drives for your computer.  
Figure 5 “Drive bay locations” on page 13 shows the locations of the drive bays.  
Figure 5. Drive bay locations  
1 Bay 1 - Optical drive bay (with an optical drive installed)  
2 Bay 2 - Card reader drive bay  
3 Bay 3 - SATA hard disk drive bay (with a 3.5-inch hard disk drive installed)  
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Machine type and model label  
The machine type and model label identifies your computer. When you contact Lenovo for help, the machine  
type and model information helps support technicians to identify your computer and provide faster service.  
The following is a sample of the machine type and model label.  
Figure 6. Machine type and model label  
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Chapter 2. Using your computer  
This chapter provides information on using some of the computer components.  
Frequently asked questions  
The following are a few tips that will help you optimize the use of your computer.  
Can I get my user guide in another language?  
The user guide is available in various languages on the Lenovo Support Web site at:  
http://www.lenovo.com/ThinkCentreUserGuides  
Where are my recovery discs?  
Lenovo provides a program that enables you to create recovery discs. For details about creating recovery  
discs, see “Creating recovery media” on page 65.  
Additionally, in case of a hard disk failure, you can order Product Recovery discs from the Lenovo Customer  
Support Center. For information about contacting the Customer Support Center, see Chapter 11 “Getting  
information, help, and service” on page 105. Before using the Product Recovery discs, refer to the  
documentation that comes with the discs.  
Attention: A Product Recovery disc package might contain multiple discs. Make sure you have all of the  
discs ready before starting the recovery process. During the recovery process, you might be prompted  
to change discs.  
Where can I find help about the Windows operating system?  
The Windows Help and Support information system provides you detailed information about using the  
Windows operating system to help you get the most of your computer. To access the Windows Help and  
Support information system, click Start ➙ Help and Support.  
Using the keyboard  
Depending on your model, your computer comes with either a standard keyboard or a fingerprint reader  
keyboard. The Microsoft Windows shortcut keys are provided on both keyboard types.  
This section provides information about the following topics:  
•
•
“Using Windows shortcut keys” on page 15  
“Using a fingerprint reader” on page 16  
Using Windows shortcut keys  
Both the standard keyboard and the fingerprint reader keyboard provide three keys you can use with your  
Microsoft Windows operating system.  
• The two Start menu keys are located beside the Alt key on either side of the spacebar. They feature the  
Windows logo. When you press either, the Windows Start menu opens. The style of the Windows logo  
varies depending on the keyboard type.  
• The context-menu key is located next to the Ctrl key on the right side of the Spacebar. Pressing the  
context-menu key opens the context menu for the active program, icon, or object.  
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Note: You can use the mouse or the Up and Down arrow keys to highlight menu selections. You can close  
the Start menu or the context menu by clicking the mouse or pressing Esc.  
Using a fingerprint reader  
Some computers might come with a keyboard that has a fingerprint reader. For more information about the  
fingerprint reader, see “Fingerprint Software” on page 5.  
To open the ThinkVantage Fingerprint Software program and use the fingerprint reader, click Start ➙ All  
Programs ➙ Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools ➙ Fingerprint Reader.  
Follow the instructions on the screen. For additional information, refer to the ThinkVantage Fingerprint  
Software help system.  
Using the wheel mouse  
The wheel mouse has the following controls:  
1 Primary mouse button  
Use this button to select or start a program or menu item.  
2 Wheel  
Use the wheel to control the scrolling action of the mouse. The direction in which you  
rotate the wheel controls the direction of the scrolling action.  
3 Secondary mouse button  
Use this button to display a menu for the active program, icon, or object.  
You can switch the function of the primary and secondary mouse buttons and change other default behavior  
through the mouse properties function in the Windows Control Panel.  
Adjusting audio  
Sound is an important part of the computer experience. Your computer has a digital audio controller built  
into the system board. Some models also have a high-performance audio adapter installed in one of the PCI  
card slots.  
About your computer audio  
If a factory-installed, high-performance audio adapter is installed in your computer, the system-board  
audio connectors on the rear of the computer are typically disabled; use the connectors provided on the  
audio adapter.  
Each audio solution provides at least three audio connectors: audio line-in connector, audio line-out  
connector, and Microphone connector. On some models, a fourth connector is provided for the attachment  
of unpowered stereo speakers (speakers that do not require an ac power source). The audio adapter  
provides you with the ability to record and play back sound and music, as well as to enjoy sound with  
multimedia applications and work with speech-recognition software.  
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Optionally, you can connect a set of powered stereo speakers to the audio line-out connector to enjoy  
better sound with multimedia applications.  
Setting the volume from the desktop  
The desktop volume control is accessible through the volume icon in the taskbar, which is located at the  
bottom-right corner of the Windows desktop. Click the volume icon and move the slider up or down to  
control the volume, or click the Mute icon to turn the audio off. If the volume icon is not in the taskbar, see  
“Adding the volume icon to the taskbar” on page 17.  
Adding the volume icon to the taskbar  
To add the volume icon to the taskbar on the Windows 7 operating system, do the following:  
1. From the Windows desktop, click Start ➙ Control Panel ➙ Appearance and Personalization.  
2. In the Taskbar and Start Menu topic, click Customize icons on the taskbar.  
3. Click Turn system icons on or off and change the volume behaviors from Off to On.  
4. Click OK to save the new settings.  
Setting the volume from Control Panel  
You can set the computer volume from Control Panel. To set the computer volume from Control Panel,  
do the following:  
1. From the Windows desktop, click Start ➙ Control Panel ➙ Hardware and Sound.  
2. In the Sound topic, click Adjust system volume.  
3. Move the sliders up or down to raise or lower the volume of your computer.  
Using CDs and DVDs  
Your computer might have a DVD ROM drive or recordable DVD drive installed. DVD drives use  
industry-standard, 12 cm (4.75-inch) CD media or DVD media. If your computer comes with a DVD drive,  
the drive can read DVD-ROM discs, DVD-R discs, DVD-RAM discs, DVD-RW discs, and all types of CDs,  
such as CD-ROM discs, CD-RW discs, CD-R discs, and audio CDs. If you have a recordable DVD drive,  
it can also record on DVD-R discs, DVD-RW discs, type II DVD-RAM discs, CD-RW standard and high  
speed discs, and CD-R discs.  
Follow these guidelines when using the DVD drive:  
• Do not place the computer in a location where the drive is exposed to the following:  
– High temperature  
– High humidity  
– Excessive dust  
– Excessive vibration or sudden shock  
– An inclined surface  
– Direct sunlight  
• Do not insert any object other than a CD or DVD into the drive.  
• Before moving the computer, remove the CD or DVD from the drive.  
Handling and storing CD and DVD media  
CD and DVD media are durable and reliable, but they do require some care and special handling. When  
handling and storing a CD or DVD, follow these guidelines:  
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• Hold the disc by its edges. Do not touch the surface of the side that is not labeled.  
• To remove dust or fingerprints, wipe the disc with a clean, soft cloth from the center to the outside. Wiping  
the disc in a circular direction might cause loss of data.  
• Do not write or stick paper on the disc.  
• Do not scratch or mark the disc.  
• Do not place or store the disc in direct sunlight.  
• Do not use benzene, thinners, or other cleaners to clean the disc.  
• Do not drop or bend the disc.  
• Do not insert damaged discs into the drive. Warped, scratched, or dirty discs can damage the drive.  
Playing a CD or DVD  
If your computer comes with a DVD drive, you can listen to audio CDs or watch DVD movies. To play a  
CD or DVD, do the following:  
1. Press the Eject/Load button on the DVD drive to open the tray.  
2. With the tray fully extended, insert the CD or DVD into the tray. Some DVD drives have a snap hub in the  
center of the tray. If your drive has a snap hub, support the tray with one hand and then push on the  
center of the CD or DVD until it snaps into place.  
3. Press the Eject/Load button again or gently push the tray forward to close the tray. The CD or DVD  
player program starts automatically. For additional information, refer to the CD or DVD player program  
help system.  
To remove a CD or DVD from the DVD drive, do the following:  
1. With the computer on, press the Eject/Load button. When the tray slides out automatically, carefully  
remove the disc.  
2. Close the tray by pressing the Eject/Load button or by gently pushing the tray forward.  
Note: If the tray does not slide out of the drive when you press the Eject/Load button, insert a straightened  
paper clip into the emergency-eject hole located on the front of the DVD drive. Be sure the drive is powered  
off when using the emergency eject. Use the Eject/Load button instead of the emergency eject except  
in an emergency.  
Recording a CD or DVD  
If your computer comes with a recordable DVD drive, you can use the drive to record CDs or DVDs. To  
record a CD or DVD, do the following:  
1. Click Start ➙ All Programs ➙ Corel DVD MovieFactory Lenovo Edition.  
2. Follow the instructions on the screen.  
For detailed information about using the Corel DVD MovieFactory program, see the help system for the  
program.  
You can also use Windows Media Player to record CDs and data DVDs. For more information, see “Help and  
Support” on page 105.  
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Chapter 3. You and your computer  
This chapter provides information about accessibility, comfort, and relocating your computer to other  
countries or regions.  
Accessibility and comfort  
Good ergonomic practice is important to get the most from your personal computer and to avoid discomfort.  
Arrange your workplace and the equipment you use to suit your individual needs and the kind of work  
that you perform. In addition, use healthy work habits to maximize your performance and comfort while  
using your computer.  
The following topics provide information about arranging your work area, setting up your computer  
equipment, and establishing healthy work habits.  
Lenovo is committed to providing people with disabilities greater access to information and technology.  
As a result, the following information provides ways to help users that have hearing, vision, and mobility  
limitations get the most out of their computer experience.  
Assistive technologies enable users to access information in the most appropriate way. Some of these  
technologies are already provided in your operating system, others can be purchased through vendors, or  
accessed through the World Wide Web:  
http://www.lenovo.com/healthycomputing  
Arranging your workspace  
To get the most from your computer, arrange both the equipment you use and your work area to suit your  
needs and the kind of work you do. Your comfort is of foremost importance, but light sources, air circulation,  
and the location of electrical outlets can also affect the way you arrange your workspace.  
Comfort  
Although no single working position is ideal for everyone, here are a few guidelines to help you find a  
position that suits you best.  
Sitting in the same position for a long time can cause fatigue. The backrest and seat of your chair should  
adjust independently and provide good support. The seat should have a curved front to relieve pressure on  
the thighs. Adjust the seat so that your thighs are parallel to the floor and your feet are either flat on the  
floor or on a footrest.  
When using the keyboard, keep your forearms parallel to the floor and your wrists in a comfortable position.  
Use a light touch on the keyboard and your hands and fingers relaxed. Change the angle of the keyboard  
for maximum comfort by adjusting the position of the keyboard feet.  
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Adjust the monitor so the top of the screen is at, or slightly below, eye level. Place the monitor at a  
comfortable viewing distance, usually 51 to 61 cm (20 to 24 inches), and position it so you can view it  
without having to twist your body. Also, position other equipment you use regularly, such as the telephone or  
a mouse, within easy reach.  
Glare and lighting  
Position the monitor to minimize glare and reflections from overhead lights, windows, and other light sources.  
Reflected light from shiny surfaces can cause annoying reflections on your monitor screen. Place the  
monitor at right angles to windows and other light sources, when possible. Reduce overhead lighting, if  
necessary, by turning off lights or using lower wattage bulbs. If you install the monitor near a window, use  
curtains or blinds to block the sunlight. You can adjust the brightness and contrast controls on the monitor  
as the room lighting changes throughout the day.  
Where it is impossible to avoid reflections or to adjust the lighting, an antiglare filter placed over the screen  
might be helpful. However, these filters might affect the clarity of the image on the screen; try them only after  
you have exhausted other methods of reducing glare.  
Dust buildup compounds problems associated with glare. Remember to clean your monitor screen  
periodically using a soft cloth as directed in your monitor documentation.  
Air circulation  
Your computer and monitor produce heat. The computer has a fan that pulls in fresh air and forces out hot  
air. The monitor lets hot air escape through vents. Blocking the air vents can cause overheating, which might  
result in a malfunction or damage. Place the computer and monitor so that nothing blocks the air vents;  
usually, 51 mm (2 inches) of air space is sufficient. Also, make sure the vented air is not blowing on people.  
Electrical outlets and cable lengths  
The location of electrical outlets, the length of power cords and cables that connect to the monitor, printer,  
and other devices might determine the final placement of your computer.  
When arranging your workspace:  
• Avoid the use of extension cords. When possible, plug the computer power cord directly into an electrical  
outlet.  
• Keep power cords and cables neatly routed away from walkways and other areas where they might  
get kicked accidentally.  
For more information about power cords, see “Power cords and power adapters” on page vi.  
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Register your computer with Lenovo  
To register your computer, go to http://www.lenovo.com/register. Then, follow the instructions on the screen  
to complete the registration. This can help authorities return your computer to you if it is lost or stolen.  
Registering your computer also enables Lenovo to notify you about possible technical information and  
upgrades.  
When you register your computer, information is entered into a database, which enables Lenovo to contact  
you in case of a recall or other severe problem. In addition, some locations offer extended privileges and  
services to registered users.  
Moving your computer to another country or region  
When you move your computer to another country or region, you must take local electrical standards into  
consideration. This section provides information on the following:  
•
•
“Voltage-selection switch” on page 21  
“Replacement power cords” on page 21  
Voltage-selection switch  
Some computers are equipped with a voltage-selection switch located near the power-cord connection  
point on the computer and some computers do not have a voltage-selection switch. Before you install  
your computer or relocate your computer to another country or region, you must be certain that you have  
matched your computer to the voltage available at your electrical outlet.  
CAUTION:  
You must know the voltage of the electrical connection (outlet) where your computer will be  
connected. If you do not know the voltage, contact your local electric company or refer to official  
Web sites or other literature for travelers to the country or region where you are located.  
If your computer has a voltage-selection switch, you must set the switch to match the voltage available at  
your electrical outlet. Setting the voltage-selection switch incorrectly will cause the computer to malfunction  
and might cause permanent damage to the computer. Do not connect the computer to an electrical  
outlet until you have verified that the voltage-selection switch setting matches the voltage available at the  
electrical outlets.  
If your computer does not have a voltage-selection switch, inspect the voltage-rating label on the bottom of  
the computer and note the following:  
• If the voltage-rating label shows a range of either “100-127 V” or “200-240 V,” you must ensure that the  
voltage provided at the electrical outlet matches the voltage rating on the computer label. If it does  
not match, do not attempt to connect the computer to the electrical outlet, unless an external device  
such as a voltage-converting transformer is used.  
• If the voltage-rating label shows a dual range of “100-127 V” and “200-240 V,” this signifies that the  
computer is suitable for worldwide operation and the computer will automatically adjust to the voltage at  
the electrical outlet regardless of the country or region where the computer is being connected.  
Replacement power cords  
If you relocate your computer to a country or region that uses an electrical outlet style different from the  
type you are currently using, you will have to purchase either electrical plug adapters or new power cords.  
You can order power cords directly from Lenovo.  
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For power cord information and part numbers, go to:  
http://www.lenovo.com/powercordnotice  
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Chapter 4. Security  
This chapter provides information about how to protect your computer from theft and unauthorized use.  
Security features  
The following security features are available on your computer:  
• Computrace Agent software embedded in firmware  
The Computrace Agent software is an IT asset management and computer theft recovery solution.  
The software detects if changes have been made on the computer, such as hardware, software, or  
the computer call-in location.  
Note: You might have to purchase a subscription to activate the Computrace Agent software.  
• Cover presence switch (also called intrusion switch)  
The cover presence switch prevents your computer from logging in to the operating system when the  
computer cover is not properly installed or closed. To enable the cover presence switch connector  
on the system board, to the following:  
1. Start the Setup Utility program. See “Starting the Setup Utility program” on page 73.  
2. Set the Administrator Password. See “Setting, changing, and deleting a password” on page 74.  
3. From the Security submenu, select Chassis Intrusion Detection ➙ Enabled. The cover presence  
switch connector on the system board is enabled.  
When the cover presence switch detects that your computer cover is not properly installed or closed  
when you turn on the computer, an error message will be displayed. To bypass the error message and  
log in to the operating system, do the following:  
1. Properly install or close your computer cover. See “Completing the parts replacement” on page 64.  
2. Press F1 to enter the Setup Utility program. Then press F10 to save and exit the Setup Utility  
program. The error message will not be displayed again.  
• Ability to enable and disable devices and USB connectors  
For more information, see “Enabling or disabling a device” on page 75.  
• Integrated fingerprint reader (available on some models)  
Depending on the models of your computer, the keyboard may have an integrated fingerprint reader.  
By enrolling your fingerprint and associating it with a Power-on Password, a Hard Disk Password, or  
both passwords beforehand, you can start the computer, log on to the system, and enter the Setup  
Utility program by swiping your finger over the reader, without typing a password. Thus fingerprint  
authentication can replace passwords and enable simple and secure user access.  
• Startup sequence control  
For more information, see “Selecting or changing the startup device sequence” on page 76.  
• Startup without keyboard or mouse  
Your computer is able to log in to the operating system without keyboard or mouse connected.  
• Trusted Platform Module (TPM)  
Trusted Platform Module is a secure cryptoprocessor that can store cryptographic keys that protect  
information stored in your computer.  
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Attaching an integrated cable lock  
An integrated cable lock, sometimes referred to as the Kensington lock, can be used to secure your  
computer to a desk, table, or other non-permanent fixture. The cable lock attaches to the integrated cable  
lock slot at the rear of your computer and is operated with a key. The cable lock also locks the buttons used  
to open the computer cover. This is the same type of lock used with many notebook computers. You can  
order an integrated cable lock directly from Lenovo by searching for Kensington at:  
http://www.lenovo.com/support  
Figure 7. Integrated cable lock  
Using passwords  
You can set a variety of passwords through the Microsoft Windows operating system and through the BIOS  
of your computer to help deter unauthorized use of your computer.  
BIOS passwords  
You can use the BIOS Setup Utility program to set passwords to prevent unauthorized access to your  
computer and data. The following types of passwords are available:  
• Power-On Password: When a Power-On Password is set, you are prompted to type a valid password  
each time the computer is turned on. The computer cannot be used until the valid password is typed  
in. For more information, see “Power-On Password” on page 74.  
• Hard Disk Password: Setting a Hard Disk Password prevents unauthorized access to the data on the hard  
disk drive. When a Hard Disk Password is set, you are prompted to type a valid password each time you  
try to access the hard disk drive. For more information, see “Hard Disk Password” on page 74.  
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• Administrator Password: Setting an Administrator Password deters unauthorized users from changing  
configuration settings. If you are responsible for maintaining the configuration settings of several  
computers, you might want to set an Administrator Password. For more information, see “Administrator  
Password” on page 74.  
You do not have to set any passwords to use your computer. However, using passwords improves  
computing security.  
Windows passwords  
Depending on your version of the Windows operating system, you can use passwords for a variety of  
features, including controlling login access, access to shared resources, network access, and individual user  
settings. For more information, see “Help and Support” on page 105.  
Configuring the fingerprint reader  
If your keyboard has a fingerprint reader, you can configure the fingerprint reader in the Setup Utility program.  
The Fingerprint Setup submenu under the Security menu of the Setup Utility program provides the  
following options:  
• Preboot Authentication: enables or disables the fingerprint authentication for accessing the BIOS.  
• Erase Fingerprint Data: clears the fingerprint data stored in a fingerprint reader.  
To configure the fingerprint reader, do the following:  
1. Start the Setup Utility program. See “Starting the Setup Utility program” on page 73.  
2. From the Setup Utility program main menu, select Security ➙ Fingerprint Setup, and press Enter.  
The Fingerprint Setup window opens.  
3. Select Preboot Authentication or Erase Fingerprint Date as desired, and press Enter.  
4. Select the desired settings and press Enter.  
5. Press F10 to save changes and exit the Setup Utility program. Press Enter when prompted to confirm  
the exit.  
Using and understanding firewalls  
A firewall can be hardware, software, or a combination of both depending on the level of security required.  
Firewalls work on a set of rules to determine which inbound and outbound connections are authorized. If  
your computer is preintalled with a firewall program, it helps protect against computer Internet security  
threats, unauthorized access, intrusions, and Internet attacks. It also protects your privacy. For more  
information about how to use the firewall program, refer to the help system of your firewall program.  
The Windows operating system preinstalled on your computer provides the Windows Firewall. For details on  
using the Windows Firewall, refer to “Help and Support” on page 105.  
Protecting data against viruses  
Your computer is preinstalled with an antivirus program to help you guard against, detect, and eliminate  
viruses.  
Lenovo provides a full version of antivirus software on your computer with a free 30-day subscription. After  
30 days, you must renew the license to continue receiving the antivirus software updates.  
Note: Virus definition files must be kept up-to-date to guard against new viruses.  
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For more information about how to use your antivirus software, refer to the help system of your antivirus  
software.  
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Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware  
This chapter provides instructions on how to install or replace hardware for your computer.  
Handling static-sensitive devices  
Do not open the static-protective package containing the new part until the defective part has been removed  
from the computer and you are ready to install the new part. Static electricity, although harmless to you, can  
seriously damage computer components and parts.  
When you handle parts and other computer components, take these precautions to avoid static-electricity  
damage:  
• Limit your movement. Movement can cause static electricity to build up around you.  
• Always handle parts and other computer components carefully. Handle PCI cards, memory modules,  
system boards, and microprocessors by the edges. Never touch any exposed circuitry.  
• Prevent others from touching the parts and other computer components.  
• Before you replace a new part, touch the static-protective package containing the part to a metal  
expansion-slot cover or other unpainted metal surface on the computer for at least two seconds. This  
reduces static electricity in the package and your body.  
• When possible, remove the new part from the static-protective packaging, and install it directly in the  
computer without setting the part down. When this is not possible, place the static-protective package  
that the part came in on a smooth, level surface and place the part on it.  
• Do not place the part on the computer cover or other metal surface.  
Installing or replacing hardware  
This section provides instructions on how to install or replace hardware for your computer. You can expand  
the capabilities of your computer and maintain your computer by installing or replacing hardware.  
Attention:  
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”  
on page v.  
Notes:  
1. Use only computer parts provided by Lenovo.  
2. When installing or replacing an option, use the appropriate instructions in this section along with the  
instructions that come with the option.  
Installing external options  
You can connect external options to your computer, such as external speakers, a printer, or a scanner. For  
some external options, you must install additional software in addition to making the physical connection.  
When installing an external option, see “Locating connectors, controls, and indicators on the front of your  
computer” on page 8 and “Locating connectors on the rear of your computer” on page 9 to identify the  
required connector. Then, use the instructions that come with the option to help you make the connection  
and install any software or device drivers that are required for the option.  
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Opening the computer cover  
Attention:  
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”  
on page v.  
This section provides instructions on how to open the computer cover.  
CAUTION:  
Turn off the computer and wait three to five minutes to let the computer cool before opening the  
computer cover.  
To open the computer cover, do the following:  
1. Remove any media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer.  
2. Disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets.  
3. Disconnect the power cords, Input/Output cables, and any other cables that are connected to the  
computer. See “Locating connectors, controls, and indicators on the front of your computer” on page 8  
and “Locating connectors on the rear of your computer” on page 9.  
4. Remove any locking device that secures the computer cover, such as an integrated cable lock. See  
“Attaching an integrated cable lock” on page 24.  
5. Press the cover-release button on the back of the computer and pivot the computer cover upward.  
Figure 8. Opening the computer cover  
Removing and reinstalling the front bezel  
Attention:  
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”  
on page v.  
This section provides instructions on how to remove and reinstall the front bezel.  
To remove and reinstall the front bezel, do the following:  
1. Remove all media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer. Then, disconnect  
all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables that are connected to the computer.  
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2. Open the computer cover. See “Opening the computer cover” on page 28.  
3. Remove the front bezel by releasing the three plastic tabs on the top of the front bezel and pivoting the  
front bezel outward to remove it from the computer.  
Figure 9. Removing the front bezel  
Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware 29  
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4. To reinstall the front bezel, align the other three plastic tabs on the bottom of the front bezel with the  
corresponding holes in the chassis, then pivot the front bezel inward until it snaps into position.  
Figure 10. Reinstalling the front bezel  
What to do next:  
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.  
• To complete the installation or replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 64.  
Accessing the system board components and drives  
Attention:  
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”  
on page v.  
This section provides instructions on how to access the system board components and drives.  
To access the system board components and drives, do the following:  
1. Remove all media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer. Then, disconnect  
all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables that are connected to the computer.  
2. Open the computer cover. See “Opening the computer cover” on page 28.  
3. Remove the front bezel. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on page 28.  
4. Remove the heat sink fan duct. See “Replacing the heat sink and fan assembly” on page 45.  
5. Remove the hard disk drive. See “Replacing the hard disk drive” on page 40.  
6. Pivot the optical drive bay upward to access the system board components and the cables. See  
“Replacing the optical drive” on page 43.  
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Installing or replacing a memory module  
Attention:  
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”  
on page v.  
This section provides instructions on how to install or replace a memory module.  
Your computer has four slots for installing or replacing DDR3 UDIMMs that provide up to a maximum of 16  
GB system memory. When installing or replacing a memory module, use the following guidelines:  
• Use 2 GB or 4 GB DDR3 UDIMMs in any combination up to a maximum of 16 GB.  
• Install memory modules in the sequence of DIMM 3, DIMM 4, DIMM 1, and DIMM 2. See “Locating  
parts on the system board” on page 12.  
To install or replace a memory module, do the following:  
1. Turn off the computer and disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets.  
2. Open the computer cover. See “Opening the computer cover” on page 28.  
3. Remove the front bezel. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on page 28.  
4. Remove the heat sink fan duct. See “Replacing the heat sink and fan assembly” on page 45.  
5. Remove the hard disk drive. See “Replacing the hard disk drive” on page 40.  
6. Pivot the optical drive bay upward to gain access to the memory slots. See “Replacing the optical  
drive” on page 43.  
7. Locate the memory slots. See “Locating parts on the system board” on page 12.  
8. Remove any parts that might prevent access to the memory slots.  
9. Depending on whether you are installing or replacing a memory module, do one of the following:  
• If you are replacing an old memory module, open the retaining clips and gently pull the memory  
module out of the memory slot.  
Figure 11. Removing a memory module  
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• If you are installing a memory module, open the retaining clips of the memory slot into which you  
want to install the memory module.  
Figure 12. Opening the retaining clips  
10. Position the new memory module over the memory slot. Make sure that the notch 1 on the memory  
module aligns correctly with the slot key 2 on the system board. Push the memory module straight  
down into the slot until the retaining clips close.  
Figure 13. Installing a memory module  
What to do next:  
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.  
• To complete the installation or replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 64.  
Installing or replacing a PCI card  
Attention:  
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”  
on page v.  
This section provides instructions on how to install or replace a PCI card. Your computer has one standard  
PCI card slot, two PCI Express x1 card slots, and one PCI Express x16 graphics card slot.  
To install or replace a PCI card, do the following:  
1. Turn off the computer and disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets.  
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2. Open the computer cover. See “Opening the computer cover” on page 28.  
3. Rotate the PCI card retainer to the open position.  
4. Depending on whether you are installing or replacing a PCI card, do one of the following:  
• If you are installing a PCI card, remove the appropriate metal slot cover.  
• If you are replacing an old PCI card, grasp the old card that is currently installed and gently pull it  
out of the slot.  
Figure 14. Removing a PCI card  
Notes:  
a. The card fits tightly into the card slot. If necessary, alternate moving each side of the card a small  
amount until it is removed from the card slot.  
b. If the card is held in place by a retaining latch, press the card retaining latch 1 as shown to  
disengage the latch. Grasp the card and gently pull it out of the slot.  
Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware 33  
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5. Remove the new PCI card from its static-protective package.  
6. Install the new card into the appropriate card slot on the system board and rotate the card retainer to the  
closed position. See “Locating parts on the system board” on page 12.  
Figure 15. Installing the PCI card  
What to do next:  
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.  
• To complete the installation or replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 64.  
Installing or replacing the card reader  
Attention:  
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”  
on page v.  
This section provides instructions on how to install or replace the card reader.  
Note: The card reader is only available in some models. For new installation, see “Installing the card reader”  
on page 34. For replacement, see “Replacing the card reader” on page 37.  
Installing the card reader  
To install the card reader, do the following:  
1. Remove all media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer. Then, disconnect  
all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables that are connected to the computer.  
2. Open the computer cover. See “Opening the computer cover” on page 28.  
3. Remove the front bezel. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on page 28.  
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4. Locate the card reader drive bay. See “Locating internal drives” on page 13.  
Note: You might have to remove the metal cover of the card reader drive bay.  
5. Install the new card reader into the card reader bracket. Then install the two screws to secure the  
card reader to the bracket.  
6. Install the card reader bracket to the chassis. Then push the bracket to the left to align the screw hole in  
the bracket with the corresponding hole in the chassis.  
Figure 16. Installing the card reader  
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7. Install the screw to secure the card reader bracket to the chassis.  
Figure 17. Installing the screw that secures the card reader  
8. Pivot the optical drive bay upward and connect the card reader cable to one of the USB connectors on  
the system board. See “Locating parts on the system board” on page 12.  
9. Reinstall the front bezel. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on page 28.  
Note: You might have to remove the card reader cover 2 from the front bezel. To remove the card read  
cover, pivot the two retaining clips 1 that secure the card reader cover outwards and then completely  
disengage the card reader cover from the front bezel.  
Figure 18. Removing the card reader cover  
What to do next:  
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.  
• To complete the installation or replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 64.  
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Replacing the card reader  
To replace the card reader, do the following:  
1. Remove all media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer. Then, disconnect  
all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables that are connected to the computer.  
2. Open the computer cover. See “Opening the computer cover” on page 28.  
3. Remove the front bezel. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on page 28.  
4. Locate the card reader drive bay. See “Locating internal drives” on page 13.  
5. Pivot the optical drive bay upward and disconnect the card reader cable from the USB connector on the  
system board. See “Locating parts on the system board” on page 12.  
6. Remove the screw that secures the card reader bracket. Then, remove the card reader bracket from  
the chassis.  
Figure 19. Removing the screw that secures the card reader  
7. Remove the two screws that secure the card reader to its bracket. Then remove the failing card reader  
from the bracket.  
8. Install a new card reader into the bracket and install the two screws to secure the card reader to the  
bracket.  
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9. Install the card reader bracket to the chassis. Then push the bracket to the left to align the screw hole in  
the bracket with the corresponding hole in the chassis.  
Figure 20. Installing the card reader  
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10. Install the screw to secure the card reader bracket to the chassis.  
Figure 21. Installing the screw that secures the card reader  
11. Pivot the optical drive bay upward and reconnect the card reader cable to one of the USB connectors  
on the system board. See “Locating parts on the system board” on page 12.  
12. Reinstall the front bezel. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on page 28.  
What to do next:  
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.  
• To complete the installation or replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 64.  
Replacing the battery  
Attention:  
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”  
on page v.  
Your computer has a special type of memory that maintains the date, time, and settings for built-in features,  
such as parallel-port assignments (configuration). A battery keeps this information active when you turn  
off the computer.  
The battery normally requires no charging or maintenance throughout its life; however, no battery lasts  
forever. If the battery fails, the date, time, and configuration information (including passwords) are lost. An  
error message is displayed when you turn on the computer.  
Refer to the “Lithium battery notice” in the ThinkCentre Safety and Warranty Guide for information about  
replacing and disposing of the battery.  
Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware 39  
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To replace the battery, do the following:  
1. Turn off the computer and disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets.  
2. Open the computer cover. See “Opening the computer cover” on page 28.  
3. Locate the battery. See “Locating parts on the system board” on page 12.  
4. Remove the old battery.  
Figure 22. Removing the old battery  
5. Install a new battery.  
Figure 23. Installing a new battery  
6. Close the computer cover and connect the cables. See “Completing the parts replacement” on page 64.  
Note: When the computer is turned on for the first time after replacing the battery, an error message  
might be displayed. This is normal after replacing the battery.  
7. Turn on the computer and all attached devices.  
8. Use the Setup Utility program to set the date, time, and any passwords. See Chapter 7 “Using the Setup  
Utility program” on page 73.  
What to do next:  
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.  
• To complete the installation or replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 64.  
Replacing the hard disk drive  
Attention:  
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”  
on page v.  
This section provides instructions on how to replace the hard disk drive.  
To replace the hard disk drive, do the following:  
1. Turn off the computer and disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets.  
2. Open the computer cover. See “Opening the computer cover” on page 28.  
3. Locate the hard disk drive. See “Locating components” on page 11.  
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4. Pull on the handle of the hard disk drive bracket as shown and then lift the hard disk drive bracket  
up from the optical drive bay.  
Figure 24. Removing the hard disk drive  
5. Disconnect the signal cable and the power cable from the hard disk drive to completely remove the hard  
disk drive from the chassis.  
6. Flex the retaining clips as shown to remove the hard disk drive from the bracket.  
Figure 25. Removing the hard disk drive from the bracket  
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7. To install a new hard disk drive into the bracket, flex the bracket and align pin 1 , pin 2 , pin 4 , and pin  
5 on the bracket with the corresponding holes in the hard disk drive.  
Important: Do not touch the circuit board 3 on the bottom of the hard disk drive.  
8. Connect the signal cable and the power cable to the new hard disk drive.  
9. Insert the two retaining clips 1 of the hard disk drive bracket into the corresponding holes in the side  
of the optical drive bay, and then pivot the hard disk drive and bracket downwards until the hard  
disk drive bracket snaps into position.  
Figure 26. Installing the hard disk drive  
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What to do next:  
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.  
• To complete the installation or replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 64.  
Replacing the optical drive  
Attention:  
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”  
on page v.  
This section provides instructions on how to replace the optical drive.  
To replace the optical drive, do the following:  
1. Turn off the computer and disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets.  
2. Open the computer cover. See “Opening the computer cover” on page 28.  
3. Remove the front bezel. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on page 28.  
4. Remove the hard disk drive. See “Replacing the hard disk drive” on page 40.  
5. Press the blue retaining clip to pivot the optical drive bay upward.  
Figure 27. Pivoting the optical drive bay  
6. Disconnect the signal cable and the power cable from the rear of the optical drive.  
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7. Press the optical drive lock 1 and slide the optical drive out of the rear of the drive bay assembly.  
Figure 28. Removing the old optical drive  
8. Install the optical drive retainer on the side of the new optical drive.  
Figure 29. Installing the optical drive retainer  
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9. Slide the new optical drive into the drive bay until it snaps into position.  
Figure 30. Installing a new optical drive  
10. Connect the signal cable and the power cable to the rear of the optical drive.  
What to do next:  
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.  
• To complete the installation or replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 64.  
Replacing the heat sink and fan assembly  
Attention:  
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”  
on page v.  
This section provides instructions on how to replace the heat sink and fan assembly.  
CAUTION:  
The heat sink and fan assembly might be very hot. Turn off the computer and wait three to five  
minutes to let the computer cool before removing the computer cover.  
To replace the heat sink and fan assembly, do the following:  
1. Remove all media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer. Then, disconnect  
all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables that are connected to the computer.  
2. Open the computer cover. See “Opening the computer cover” on page 28.  
Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware 45  
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3. Disconnect the heat sink and fan assembly cable from the microprocessor fan connector on the system  
board. See “Locating parts on the system board” on page 12.  
4. Follow this sequence to remove the four screws that secure the heat sink and fan assembly to the  
system board:  
a. Partially remove screw 1 , then fully remove screw 2 , and then fully remove screw 1 .  
b. Partially remove screw 3 , then fully remove screw 4 , and then fully remove screw 3 .  
Note: Carefully remove the four screws from the system board to avoid any possible damage to the  
system board. The four screws cannot be removed from the heat sink and fan assembly.  
Figure 31. Screws that secure the heat sink and fan assembly  
5. Lift the heat sink and fan assembly with the fan duct off the system board.  
Notes:  
a. You might have to gently twist the heat sink and fan assembly to free it from the microprocessor.  
b. When handling the heat sink and fan assembly, do not touch the thermal grease on the bottom  
of the heat sink and fan assembly.  
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6. Remove the two screws that secure the heat sink fan duct. Then remove the heat sink fan duct from  
the failing heat sink and fan assembly.  
Figure 32. Removing the heat sink fan duct  
7. Place the new heat sink and fan assembly on the system board so that the four screws are aligned  
with the corresponding holes in the system board. Make sure that you properly place the new heat  
sink and fan assembly so that you can easily connect the new heat sink and fan assembly cable to the  
microprocessor fan connector on the system board.  
8. Follow this sequence to install the four screws to secure the new heat sink and fan assembly, as shown  
in Figure 31 “Screws that secure the heat sink and fan assembly” on page 46:  
a. Partially tighten screw 1 , then fully tighten screw 2 , and then fully tighten screw 1 .  
b. Partially tighten screw 3 , then fully tighten screw 4 , and then fully tighten screw 3 .  
9. Connect the new heat sink and fan assembly cable to the microprocessor fan connector on the system  
board. See “Locating parts on the system board” on page 12.  
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10. Lower and position the heat sink fan duct on the top of the heat sink and fan assembly until the two  
screw holes in the heat sink fan duct are aligned with those in the heat sink and fan assembly. Install  
the two screws to secure the heat sink fan duct.  
Figure 33. Installing the heat sink fan duct  
What to do next:  
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.  
• To complete the replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 64.  
Replacing the power supply assembly  
Attention:  
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”  
on page v.  
This section provides instructions on how to replace the power supply assembly.  
Although there are no moving parts in your computer after the power cord has been disconnected, the  
following warnings are required for your safety and proper Underwriters Laboratories (UL) certification.  
CAUTION:  
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Hazardous moving parts. Keep fingers and other body parts away.  
CAUTION:  
Never remove the cover on a power supply or any part that has the following label attached.  
Hazardous voltage, current, and energy levels are present inside any component that has this label  
attached. There are no serviceable parts inside these components. If you suspect a problem with  
one of these parts, contact a service technician.  
To replace the power supply assembly, do the following:  
1. Remove all media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer. Then, disconnect  
all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables that are connected to the computer.  
2. Open the computer cover. See “Opening the computer cover” on page 28.  
3. Remove the front bezel. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on page 28.  
4. Remove the hard disk drive. See “Replacing the hard disk drive” on page 40.  
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5. Remove the two screws that secure the heat sink fan duct, and then lift the heat sink fan duct out of  
the chassis.  
Figure 34. Removing the heat sink fan duct  
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6. Pivot the optical drive upward and disconnect the power supply assembly cables from all drives and  
from power connectors 1 and 2 on the system board.  
Figure 35. Power connectors on the system board  
Note: You might also need to release the power supply assembly cables from some cable clips or ties  
that secure the cables to the chassis. Make sure that you note the cable routing before disconnecting  
the cables.  
7. At the rear of the computer, remove the three screws that secure the power supply assembly. Press the  
power supply clip 1 downward to release the power supply assembly and then slide the power supply  
assembly to the front of the computer. Lift the power supply assembly out of the computer.  
Figure 36. Removing the power supply assembly  
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8. Make sure that the new power supply assembly is the correct replacement.  
9. Install the new power supply assembly into the chassis so that the screw holes in the new power supply  
assembly are aligned with the corresponding holes in the rear of the chassis. Then, install the three  
screws to secure the new power supply assembly in place.  
Note: Use only screws provided by Lenovo.  
Figure 37. Installing the power supply assembly  
10. Connect the new power supply assembly cables to all drives and the system board. See “Locating  
parts on the system board” on page 12.  
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11. Lower and position the heat sink fan duct on the top of the heat sink and fan assembly until the two  
screw holes in the heat sink fan duct are aligned with those in the heat sink and fan assembly. Install  
the two screws to secure the heat sink fan duct.  
Figure 38. Installing the heat sink fan duct  
What to do next:  
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.  
• To complete the replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 64.  
Replacing the microprocessor  
Attention:  
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”  
on page v.  
This section provides instructions on how to replace the microprocessor.  
CAUTION:  
The heat sink and microprocessor might be very hot. Turn off the computer and wait three to five  
minutes to let the computer cool before removing the computer cover.  
To replace the microprocessor, do the following:  
1. Remove all media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer. Then, disconnect  
all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables that are connected to the computer.  
2. Open the computer cover. See “Opening the computer cover” on page 28.  
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3. Locate the system board and disconnect all cables connected to the system board. See “Locating  
parts on the system board” on page 12.  
4. Remove the heat sink and fan assembly with the fan duct. See “Replacing the heat sink and fan  
assembly” on page 45.  
Note: Do not let the thermal grease on the bottom of the heat sink and fan assembly get in contact  
with anything.  
5. Lift the small handle 1 to release the microprocessor 2 secured on the system board.  
Figure 39. Accessing the microprocessor  
6. Lift the microprocessor straight up and out of the microprocessor socket.  
Figure 40. Removing the microprocessor  
Notes:  
a. Your microprocessor and socket might look different from the one illustrated.  
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b. Note the orientation of the microprocessor in the socket. You can look for the small triangle 1  
on one corner of the microprocessor. This is important when installing the new microprocessor  
on the system board.  
c. Touch only the edges of the microprocessor. Do not touch the gold contacts on the bottom.  
d. Do not drop anything onto the microprocessor socket while it is exposed. The socket pins must be  
kept as clean as possible.  
7. Make sure that the small handle is in the raised position.  
8. Remove the protective cover that protects the gold contacts of the new microprocessor.  
9. Hold the new microprocessor by its sides and align the small triangle on one corner of the new  
microprocessor with the corresponding small triangle on one corner of the microprocessor socket.  
10. Lower the new microprocessor straight down into the microprocessor socket on the system board.  
11. Lower the small handle to secure the new microprocessor in the socket.  
12. Reinstall the heat sink and fan assembly with the fan duct as shown. See “Replacing the heat sink and  
fan assembly” on page 45.  
Figure 41. Reinstalling the heat sink and fan assembly with the fan duct  
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13. Reconnect all cables that were disconnected from the system board.  
What to do next:  
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.  
• To complete the replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 64.  
Replacing the front audio and USB assembly  
Attention:  
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”  
on page v.  
This section provides instructions on how to replace the front audio and USB assembly.  
To replace the front audio and USB assembly, do the following:  
1. Remove all media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer. Then, disconnect  
all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables that are connected to the computer.  
2. Open the computer cover. See “Opening the computer cover” on page 28.  
3. Remove the front bezel. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on page 28.  
4. Pivot the optical drive bay upward and disconnect the front audio and USB assembly cables from the  
system board and note the cables routing. See “Locating parts on the system board” on page 12.  
5. Remove the screw that secures the front audio and USB assembly bracket. Then remove the front  
audio and USB assembly bracket from the chassis.  
Figure 42. Removing the front audio and USB assembly  
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6. Remove the two screws that secure the front audio and USB assembly to its bracket. Then remove the  
failing front audio and USB assembly from the bracket.  
7. Install a new front audio and USB assembly into the bracket and install the two screws to secure the  
front audio and USB assembly to the bracket.  
8. Install the front audio and USB assembly bracket to the chassis and align the screw hole in the bracket  
with the corresponding hole in the chassis.  
9. Install the screw to secure the front audio and USB assembly bracket to the chassis.  
10. Reconnect the front USB and front audio cables to the system board. See “Locating parts on the  
system board” on page 12.  
11. Reinstall the front bezel. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on page 28.  
What to do next:  
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.  
• To complete the installation or replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 64.  
Replacing the system fan  
Attention:  
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”  
on page v.  
This section provides instructions on how to replace the system fan.  
To replace the system fan, do the following:  
1. Turn off the computer and disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets.  
2. Open the computer cover. See “Opening the computer cover” on page 28.  
3. Remove the hard disk drive. See “Replacing the hard disk drive” on page 40.  
4. Locate the system fan. See “Locating components” on page 11.  
5. Disconnect the system fan cable from the system fan connector on the system board. See “Locating  
parts on the system board” on page 12.  
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6. The system fan is attached to the chassis by four rubber mounts. Remove the system fan by cutting  
the rubber mounts and lifting the system fan out of the chassis.  
Note: The new system fan will have four new rubber mounts attached.  
Figure 43. Removing the system fan  
7. Install the new system fan by aligning the new rubber mounts that came with the new system fan with the  
corresponding holes in the chassis, and then push the rubber mounts through the holes. Then, carefully  
pull on the tips of the rubber mounts from the bottom until the new system fan is secured in place.  
Figure 44. Installing the system fan  
8. Connect the new system fan cable to the system fan connector on the system board. See “Locating  
parts on the system board” on page 12.  
9. Reinstall the hard disk drive. See “Replacing the hard disk drive” on page 40.  
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What to do next:  
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.  
• To complete the installation or replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 64.  
Replacing the internal speaker  
Attention:  
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”  
on page v.  
This section provides instructions on how to replace the internal speaker.  
Note: The internal speaker is only available in some models.  
To replace the internal speaker, do the following:  
1. Turn off the computer and disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets.  
2. Open the computer cover. See “Opening the computer cover” on page 28.  
3. Remove the front bezel by releasing the three plastic tabs and pivoting the front bezel outward.  
Figure 45. Removing the front bezel  
4. Remove the hard disk drive. See “Replacing the hard disk drive” on page 40.  
5. Locate the cover presence switch (intrusion switch) and the internal speaker. See “Locating  
components” on page 11.  
6. Disconnect the internal speaker cable from the internal speaker connector on the system board. See  
“Locating parts on the system board” on page 12.  
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7. Remove the screw that secures the cover presence switch and remove the cover presence switch  
from the chassis.  
Figure 46. Removing the cover presence switch  
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8. Push the internal speaker outward through the hole 1 to disengage it from the two metal tabs on the  
chassis. Then, slide the internal speaker to the right to remove it from the chassis.  
Figure 47. Removing the internal speaker  
9. Align the new internal speaker with the two metal clips on the chassis, and then slide the speaker  
as shown until it snaps into position.  
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Figure 48. Installing the new internal speaker  
10. Reconnect the internal speaker cable to the system board. See “Locating parts on the system board”  
on page 12.  
11. Position the cover presence switch so that the screw hole in the cover presence switch is aligned with  
the corresponding hole in the chassis.  
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12. Install the screw to secure the cover presence switch to the chassis.  
Figure 49. Reinstalling the cover presence switch  
13. To reinstall the front bezel, align the three tabs on the front bezel with the corresponding holes in the  
chassis and pivot the front bezel inwards until it snaps into position.  
What to do next:  
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.  
• To complete the installation or replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 64.  
Replacing the keyboard or mouse  
Attention:  
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”  
on page v.  
This section provides instructions on how to replace the keyboard or mouse.  
To replace the keyboard or mouse, do the following:  
1. Disconnect the old keyboard cable or mouse cable from the computer.  
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2. Connect a new keyboard or mouse to one of the USB connectors on the computer. Depending on where  
you want to connect the new keyboard or mouse, see “Locating connectors, controls, and indicators on  
the front of your computer” on page 8 or “Locating connectors on the rear of your computer” on page 9.  
Figure 50. Connecting a new keyboard or mouse  
What to do next:  
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.  
• To complete the installation or replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 64.  
Completing the parts replacement  
After completing the installation or replacement for all parts, you need to close the computer cover and  
reconnect cables. Depending on the parts you installed or replaced, you might need to confirm the updated  
information in the Setup Utility program. Refer to Chapter 7 “Using the Setup Utility program” on page 73.  
To close the computer cover and reconnect cables to your computer, do the following:  
1. Make sure that all components have been reassembled correctly and that no tools or loose screws  
are left inside your computer. See “Locating components” on page 11 for the locations of various  
components in your computer.  
2. If you have removed the front bezel, reinstall it. To reinstall the front bezel, align the three tabs on  
the front bezel with the corresponding holes in the chassis and pivot the front bezel inwards until  
it snaps into position.  
3. Make sure that the cables are routed correctly. Keep cables clear of the hinges and sides of the  
computer chassis to avoid interference with closing the computer cover.  
4. Lower the optical drive bay.  
5. Close the computer cover.  
6. If there is an integrated cable lock available, lock the computer.  
7. Reconnect the external cables and power cords to the computer. See “Locating connectors on the rear  
of your computer” on page 9.  
8. To update your configuration, see Chapter 7 “Using the Setup Utility program” on page 73.  
Note: In most areas of the world, Lenovo requires the return of the defective Customer Replaceable Unit  
(CRU). Information about this will come with the CRU or will come a few days after the CRU arrives.  
Obtaining device drivers  
You can obtain device drivers for operating systems that are not preinstalled at  
http://www.lenovo.com/support. Installation instructions are provided in readme files with the device-driver  
files.  
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Chapter 6. Recovery information  
This chapter provides information about the recovery solutions provided by Lenovo.  
This chapter contains the following topics:  
• Creating and using recovery media  
• Performing backup and recovery operations  
• Using the Rescue and Recovery workspace  
• Creating and using a rescue medium  
• Installing or reinstalling device drivers  
• Solving recovery problems  
Notes:  
1. The recovery information in this chapter only applies to the computers that have the Rescue and  
Recovery program or the Product Recovery program installed. If the Enhanced Backup and Restore  
icon in the Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools program is dimmed, it indicates that you need to install  
the Rescue and Recovery program manually before enabling its features. To install the Rescue and  
Recovery program, do the following:  
a. Click Start ➙ All Programs ➙ Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools, and double-click Enhanced Backup  
and Restore.  
b. Follow the instructions on the screen.  
c. When the installation process completes, the Enhanced Backup and Restore icon is activated.  
2. There are a variety of methods to choose from when considering how to recover in the event of a  
software- or hardware-related problem. Some methods vary depending on the type of operating system  
that is installed.  
3. The product on the recovery media may be used only for the following purposes:  
• Restore the product preinstalled on your computer  
• Reinstall the product  
• Modify the product using the Additional Files  
Creating and using recovery media  
You can use recovery media to restore the hard disk drive to the factory default state. Recovery media are  
useful if you transfer the computer to another area, sell the computer, recycle the computer, or put the  
computer in an operational state after all other methods of recovery have failed. As a precautionary measure,  
it is important to create recovery media as early as possible.  
Note: The recovery operations you can perform using recovery media vary depending on the operating  
system from which the recovery media were created. The recovery media might contain a boot medium  
and a data medium. Your Microsoft Windows license permits you to create only one data medium, so it is  
important that you store the recovery media in a safe place after you have made them.  
Creating recovery media  
This section provides instructions on how to create recovery media.  
Note: On the Windows 7 operating system, you can create recovery media using discs or external USB  
storage devices.  
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To create recovery media on the Windows 7 operating system, click Start ➙ All Programs ➙ Lenovo  
ThinkVantage Tools ➙ Factory Recovery Disks. Then, follow the instructions on the screen.  
Using recovery media  
This section provides instructions on how to use recovery media.  
On the Windows 7 operating system, you can use recovery media to restore the contents of the hard disk  
drive to the factory default state. Also, you can use recovery media to put the computer in an operational  
state after all other methods of hard disk drive recovery have failed.  
Attention: When you use recovery media to restore the contents of the hard disk to the factory default state,  
all the files currently on the hard disk drive will be deleted and replaced by the factory default files.  
To use recovery media on the Windows 7 operating system, do the following:  
1. Depending on the type of your recovery media, connect the boot medium (memory key or other USB  
storage device) to the computer, or insert the boot disc into the optical drive.  
2. Repeatedly press and release the F12 key when turning on the computer. When the Please select  
boot device window opens, release the F12 key.  
3. Select the desired startup device and press Enter. The restore process begins.  
4. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the operation.  
Note: After restoring your computer hard disk drive to the factory default state, you might have to reinstall  
device drivers for some devices. See “Reinstalling device drivers” on page 70.  
Performing backup and recovery operations  
The Rescue and Recovery program enables you to back up all your hard disk drive contents including the  
operating system, data files, software programs, and personal settings. You can designate where the  
Rescue and Recovery program stores the backup:  
• In a protected area of your hard disk drive  
• On the secondary hard disk drive if a secondary hard disk drive is installed in your computer  
• On an attached external USB hard disk drive  
• On a network drive  
• On recordable discs (a recordable optical drive is required for this option)  
After you have backed up the contents of the hard disk drive, you can restore the complete contents of the  
hard disk drive, restore selected files only, or restore the Windows operating system and applications only  
while keeping the other data on your hard disk drive.  
Performing a backup operation  
This section provides instructions on how to perform a backup operation using the Rescue and Recovery  
program.  
To perform a backup operation using the Rescue and Recovery program on the Windows 7 operating  
system, do the following:  
1. From the Windows desktop, click Start ➙ All Programs ➙ Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools ➙ Enhanced  
Backup and Restore. The Rescue and Recovery program opens.  
2. In the Rescue and Recovery main window, click the Launch advanced Rescue and Recovery arrow.  
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3. Click Back up your hard drive and select backup operation options. Then, follow the instructions on  
the screen to complete the backup operation.  
Performing a recovery operation  
This section provides instructions on how to perform a recovery operation using the Rescue and Recovery  
program.  
To perform a recovery operation using the Rescue and Recovery program on the Windows 7 operating  
system, do the following:  
1. From the Windows desktop, click Start ➙ All Programs ➙ Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools ➙ Enhanced  
Backup and Restore. The Rescue and Recovery program opens.  
2. In the Rescue and Recovery main window, click the Launch advanced Rescue and Recovery arrow.  
3. Click the Restore your system from a backup icon.  
4. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the recovery operation.  
For more information about performing a recovery operation from the Rescue and Recovery workspace, see  
“Using the Rescue and Recovery workspace” on page 67.  
Using the Rescue and Recovery workspace  
The Rescue and Recovery workspace resides in a protected, hidden area of your hard disk drive that  
operates independently from the Windows operating system. This enables you to perform recovery  
operations even if you cannot start the Windows operating system. You can perform the following recovery  
operations from the Rescue and Recovery workspace:  
• Rescue files from your hard disk drive or from a backup: The Rescue and Recovery workspace enables  
you to locate files on your hard disk drive and transfer them to a network drive or other recordable media,  
such as a USB device or a disc. This solution is available even if you did not back up your files or if  
changes were made to the files since your last backup operation. You can also rescue individual files from  
a Rescue and Recovery backup located on your local hard disk drive, a USB device, or a network drive.  
• Restore your hard disk drive from a Rescue and Recovery backup: If you have backed up your hard disk  
drive using the Rescue and Recovery program, you can restore the hard disk drive from a Rescue and  
Recovery backup, even if you cannot start the Windows operating system.  
• Restore your hard disk drive to the factory default state: The Rescue and Recovery workspace enables  
you to restore the complete contents of your hard disk drive to the factory default state. If you have  
multiple partitions on your hard disk drive, you have the option to restore the C: partition and leave the  
other partitions intact. Because the Rescue and Recovery workspace operates independently from  
the Windows operating system, you can restore the hard disk drive to the factory default state even if  
you cannot start the Windows operating system.  
Attention: If you restore the hard disk drive from a Rescue and Recovery backup or restore the hard disk  
drive to the factory default settings, all files on the primary hard disk drive partition (usually drive C:) will be  
deleted in the recovery process. If possible, make copies of important files. If you are unable to start the  
Windows operating system, you can use the rescue files feature of the Rescue and Recovery workspace to  
copy files from your hard disk drive to other media.  
To start the Rescue and Recovery workspace, do the following:  
1. Make sure the computer is turned off.  
2. Turn on your computer. When you see the logo screen, press Enter, and then press F11 to enter the  
Rescue and Recovery workspace.  
3. If you have set a Rescue and Recovery password, type your password when prompted. The Rescue  
and Recovery workspace opens after a short delay.  
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Note: If the Rescue and Recovery workspace fails to open, see “Solving recovery problems” on page 70.  
4. Do one of the following:  
• To rescue files from your hard disk drive, click Rescue files and follow the instructions on the screen.  
• To restore your hard disk drive from a Rescue and Recovery backup or to restore your hard disk drive  
to the factory default settings, click Full Restore and follow the instructions on the screen.  
For more information about the features of the Rescue and Recovery workspace, click Help.  
Note: After restoring your hard disk drive to the factory default state, you might have to reinstall device  
drivers for some devices. See “Reinstalling device drivers” on page 70.  
Creating and using a rescue medium  
With a rescue medium, such as a disc or a USB hard disk drive, you can recover the computer from failures  
that prevent you from gaining access to the Rescue and Recovery workspace on your hard disk drive.  
Notes:  
1. The recovery operations you can perform using a rescue medium vary depending on the operating  
system.  
2. The rescue disc can be started in all types of optical drives.  
Creating a rescue medium  
This section provides instructions on how to create a rescue medium.  
To create a rescue medium on the Windows 7 operating system, do the following:  
1. From the Windows desktop, click Start ➙ All Programs ➙ Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools ➙ Enhanced  
Backup and Restore. The Rescue and Recovery program opens.  
2. In the Rescue and Recovery main window, click the Launch advanced Rescue and Recovery arrow.  
3. Click the Create Rescue Media icon. The Create Rescue and Recovery Media window opens.  
4. In the Rescue Media area, select the type of the rescue medium you want to create. You can create a  
rescue medium using a disc, a USB hard disk drive, or a secondary internal hard disk drive.  
5. Click OK and follow the instructions on the screen to create a rescue medium.  
Using a rescue medium  
This section provides instructions on how to use the rescue medium you have created.  
• If you have created a rescue medium using a disc, use the following instructions to use the rescue medium:  
1. Turn off your computer.  
2. Repeatedly press and release the F12 key when turning on the computer. When the Please select  
boot device window opens, release the F12 key.  
3. In the Please select boot device window, select the desired optical drive as the first boot device.  
Then, insert the rescue disc into the optical drive and press Enter. The rescue medium starts.  
• If you have created a rescue medium using a USB hard disk drive, use the following instructions to  
use the rescue medium:  
1. Attach the USB hard disk drive to one of the USB connectors on your computer.  
2. Repeatedly press and release the F12 key when turning on the computer. When the Please select  
boot device window opens, release the F12 key.  
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3. In the Please select boot device window, select the USB hard disk drive as the first boot device and  
press Enter. The rescue medium starts.  
When the rescue medium starts, the Rescue and Recovery workspace opens. The help information for  
each feature is available from the Rescue and Recovery workspace. Follow the instructions to complete  
the recovery process.  
Reinstalling preinstalled applications and device drivers  
Your computer has provisions that enable you to reinstall selected factory-installed applications and device  
drivers.  
Reinstalling preinstalled applications  
This section provides instructions on how to reinstall preinstalled applications.  
To reinstall the selected applications preinstalled on your Lenovo computer, do the following:  
1. Turn on the computer.  
2. Go to the C:\SWTOOLS directory.  
3. Open the apps folder. Within the apps folder, there are several subfolders named for various applications  
installed in your computer.  
4. Open the appropriate application subfolder.  
5. In the application subfolder, look for a SETUP.EXE file or other appropriate EXE files for setup.  
Double-click the file and follow the instructions on the screen to complete the installation.  
Reinstalling preinstalled device drivers  
This section provides instructions on how to reinstall preinstalled device drivers.  
Attention: When you reinstall device drivers, you are changing the current configuration of your computer.  
Reinstall device drivers only when it is necessary to correct a problem with your computer.  
To reinstall the device driver for a factory-installed device, do the following:  
1. Turn on the computer.  
2. Go to the C:\SWTOOLS directory.  
3. Open the DRIVERS folder. Within the DRIVERS folder, there are several subfolders named for various  
devices installed in your computer, such as AUDIO or VIDEO.  
4. Open the appropriate device subfolder.  
5. Do one of the following:  
• In the device subfolder, look for a SETUP.exe file. Double-click the file and follow the instructions on  
the screen to complete the installation.  
• In the device subfolder, look for a README.txt file or a file with the .txt extension. This file might be  
named after the operating system, such as WIN98.txt. The TXT file contains information about how to  
install the device driver. Follow the instructions to complete the installation.  
• If the device subfolder contains a file with the .inf extension and you want to install the device  
driver using the INF file, refer to your Windows Help and Support information system for detailed  
information about how to install the device driver.  
Note: If you need updated device drivers, see “Getting the latest device drivers for your computer” on  
page 81 for more information.  
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Reinstalling software programs  
If a software program you installed on your computer is not working correctly, you might need to remove  
and reinstall it. Reinstalling overwrites the existing programs files and usually fixes any problems that  
you might have had with that program.  
To remove a program in your system, see Microsoft Windows help system for detailed information.  
To reinstall the program, do one of the following:  
Note: The method of reinstalling a program varies from program to program. Refer to the documentation  
provided with the program to see if your program has special installation instructions.  
• To reinstall most commercially available programs in your system, see Microsoft Windows help system  
for more information.  
• To reinstall selected application programs that came preinstalled from Lenovo, do the following:  
1. Turn on the computer.  
2. Go to the C:\SWTOOLS directory.  
3. Open the APPS folder. Within the APPS folder, there are several subfolders named for various  
applications installed in your computer.  
4. Open the appropriate application subfolder.  
5. In the application subfolder, look for a SETUP.EXE file or other appropriate EXE files for setup.  
Double-click the file and follow the instructions on the screen to complete the installation.  
Reinstalling device drivers  
To reinstall a device driver for an option you installed, refer to the documentation that comes with the option.  
When you reinstall device drivers, you are changing the current configuration of your computer. Reinstall  
device drivers only when it is necessary to correct a problem with your computer.  
For more information about reinstalling device drivers that came with your computer, see “Reinstalling  
preinstalled applications and device drivers” on page 69.  
Solving recovery problems  
If you are unable to access the Rescue and Recovery workspace or the Windows environment, do one  
of the following:  
• Use a rescue medium to start the Rescue and Recovery workspace. See “Creating and using a rescue  
medium” on page 68.  
• Use recovery media if all other methods of recovery have failed and you need to restore the hard disk  
drive to the factory default settings. See “Creating and using recovery media” on page 65.  
Note: If you are unable to access the Rescue and Recovery workspace or the Windows environment from  
a rescue medium or recovery media, you might not have the rescue device (an internal hard disk drive, a  
disc, a USB hard disk drive, or other external devices) set as the first boot device in the startup device  
sequence. You must first make sure that your rescue device is set as the first boot device in the startup  
device sequence in the Setup Utility program. See “Selecting a startup device” on page 76 for detailed  
information about temporarily or permanently changing the startup device sequence. For more information  
about the Setup Utility program, see Chapter 7 “Using the Setup Utility program” on page 73.  
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It is important to create a rescue medium and a set of recovery media as early as possible and store them  
in a safe place for future use.  
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Chapter 7. Using the Setup Utility program  
The Setup Utility program is used to view and change the configuration settings of your computer, regardless  
of which operating system you are using. However, the operating system settings might override any similar  
settings in the Setup Utility program.  
Starting the Setup Utility program  
To start the Setup Utility program, do the following:  
1. Make sure your computer is turned off.  
2. Repeatedly press and release the F1 key when turning on the computer. When you hear multiple  
beeps or see a logo screen, release the F1 key.  
Note: If a Power-On Password or an Administrator Password has been set, the Setup Utility program  
menu will not be displayed until you type the correct password. For more information, see “Using  
passwords” on page 73.  
When the POST detects that the hard disk drive has been removed from your computer or the memory  
module size has decreased, an error message will be displayed when you start the computer and you will be  
prompted to do one of the following:  
• Press F1 to enter the Setup Utility program.  
Note: After you enter the Setup Utility program, select Save Changes and Exit at the bottom of the  
screen. The error message will not be displayed again.  
• Press F2 to bypass the error message and log in to the operating system.  
Note: You have to enable the configuration change detection feature for the POST to detect the removal of  
the hard disk drive. To enable the configuration change detection feature, do the following:  
1. Start the Setup Utility program.  
2. From the Setup Utility program main menu, select Security ➙ Configuration Change Detection,  
and press Enter.  
3. Select Enabled and press Enter.  
4. Press F10 to save changes and exit the Setup Utility program. Press Enter when prompted to confirm  
the exit.  
Viewing and changing settings  
The Setup Utility program menu lists various items about the system configuration. To view or change  
settings, start the Setup Utility program. See “Starting the Setup Utility program” on page 73. Then, follow  
the instructions on the screen.  
You can use either the keyboard or the mouse to navigate through BIOS menu choices. The keys used to  
perform various tasks are displayed at the bottom of each screen.  
Using passwords  
By using the Setup Utility program, you can set passwords to prevent unauthorized access to your computer  
and data. The following types of passwords are available:  
• Power-On Password  
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• Administrator Password  
• Hard Disk Password  
You do not have to set any passwords to use your computer. However, using passwords improves  
computing security. If you decide to set any passwords, read the following sections.  
Password considerations  
A password can be any combination of up to 64 alphabetic and numeric characters. For security reasons, it  
is recommended to use a strong password that cannot be easily compromised. To set a strong password,  
use the following guidelines:  
• Have at least eight characters in length  
• Contain at least one alphabetic character and one numeric character  
• Setup Utility program and hard disk drive passwords are not case sensitive  
• Not be your name or your user name  
• Not be a common word or a common name  
• Be significantly different from your previous passwords  
Power-On Password  
When a Power-On Password is set, you are prompted to type a valid password each time the computer is  
turned on. The computer cannot be used until the valid password is typed in.  
Administrator Password  
Setting an Administrator Password deters unauthorized users from changing configuration settings. If you  
are responsible for maintaining the configuration settings of several computers, you might want to set an  
Administrator Password.  
When an Administrator Password is set, you are prompted to type a valid password each time you try to  
access the Setup Utility program. The Setup Utility program cannot be accessed until a valid password  
is typed in.  
If both the Power-On Password and Administrator Password are set, you can type either password. However,  
you must use your Administrator Password to change any configuration settings.  
Hard Disk Password  
Setting a Hard Disk Password prevents unauthorized access to the data on the hard disk drive. When a  
Hard Disk Password is set, you are prompted to type a valid password each time you try to access the  
hard disk drive.  
Notes:  
• After you set a Hard Disk Password, your data on the hard disk drive is protected even if the hard disk  
drive is removed from one computer and installed in another.  
• If the Hard Disk Password is forgotten, there is no way to reset the password or recover data from the  
hard disk drive.  
Setting, changing, and deleting a password  
To set, change, or delete a password, do the following:  
1. Start the Setup Utility program. See “Starting the Setup Utility program” on page 73.  
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2. From the Setup Utility program main menu, select Security.  
3. Depending on the password type, select Set Power-On Password, Set Administrator Password, or  
Hard Disk Password.  
4. Follow the instructions on the right side of the screen to set, change, or delete a password.  
Note: A password can be any combination of up to 64 alphabetic and numeric characters. For more  
information, see “Password considerations” on page 74.  
Erasing lost or forgotten passwords (clearing CMOS)  
This section provides instructions on how to erase lost or forgotten passwords, such as a user password.  
To erase a lost or forgotten password, do the following:  
1. Remove all media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer. Then, disconnect  
all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables that are connected to the computer.  
2. Open the computer cover. See “Opening the computer cover” on page 28.  
3. Locate the Clear CMOS /Recovery jumper on the system board. See “Locating parts on the system  
board” on page 12.  
4. Move the jumper from the standard position (pin 1 and pin 2) to the maintenance position (pin 2 and  
pin 3).  
5. Close the computer cover and connect the power cord. See “Completing the parts replacement”  
on page 64.  
6. Turn on the computer and leave it on for approximately 10 seconds. Then, turn off the computer by  
holding the power switch for approximately five seconds.  
7. Repeat step 1 through step 2.  
8. Move the Clear CMOS /Recovery jumper back to the standard position (pin 1 and pin 2).  
9. Close the computer cover and connect the power cord. See “Completing the parts replacement”  
on page 64.  
Enabling or disabling a device  
This section provides information on how to enable or disable user access to the following devices:  
USB Setup  
Use this option to enable or disable a USB connector. When a USB connector is  
disabled, the device connected to the USB connector cannot be used.  
SATA Controller  
When this feature is set to Disable, all devices connected to the SATA connectors  
(such as hard disk drives or the optical drive) are disabled and cannot be accessed.  
To enable or disable a device, do the following:  
1. Start the Setup Utility program. See “Starting the Setup Utility program” on page 73.  
2. From the Setup Utility program main menu, select Devices.  
3. Depending on the device you want to enable or disable, do one of the following:  
• Select USB Setup to enable or disable a USB device.  
• Select ATA Drive Setup to enable or disable an internal SATA device.  
4. Select the desired settings and press Enter.  
5. Press F10 to save changes and exit the Setup Utility program. See “Exiting the Setup Utility program”  
on page 77.  
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Selecting a startup device  
If your computer does not start up from a device such as the disc or hard disk drive as expected, do one of  
the following to select the startup device you want.  
Selecting a temporary startup device  
Use this procedure to select a temporary startup device.  
Note: Not all discs and hard disk drives are bootable.  
1. Turn off your computer.  
2. Repeatedly press and release the F12 key when turning on the computer. When the Startup Device  
Menu window displays, release the F12 key.  
3. Select the desired startup device and press Enter. The computer will start up from the device you  
selected.  
Note: Selecting a startup device from the Startup Device Menu window does not permanently change  
the startup sequence.  
Selecting or changing the startup device sequence  
To view or permanently change the configured startup device sequence, do the following:  
1. Start the Setup Utility program. See “Starting the Setup Utility program” on page 73.  
2. From the Setup Utility program main menu, select Startup.  
3. Select the devices for the Primary Boot Sequence, the Automatic Boot Sequence, and the Error Boot  
Sequence. Read the information displayed on the right side of the screen.  
4. Press F10 to save changes and exit the Setup Utility program. See “Exiting the Setup Utility program”  
on page 77.  
Enabling ErP compliance mode  
You can enable the energy-related products directive (ErP) compliance mode through the Power menu in the  
Setup Utility program to reduce the consumption of electricity when your computer is in standby or off mode.  
To enable ErP compliance mode in the Setup Utility program, do the following:  
1. Start the Setup Utility program. See “Starting the Setup Utility program” on page 73.  
2. From the Setup Utility program main menu, select Power ➙ Enhanced Power Saving Mode, and  
press Enter.  
3. Select Enabled and press Enter.  
4. From the Power menu, select Automatic Power On and press Enter.  
5. Select Wake on Lan and press Enter.  
6. Select Disabled and press Enter.  
7. Press F10 to save changes and exit the Setup Utility program. Press Enter when prompted to confirm  
the exit.  
Note: When ErP compliance mode is enabled, you can wake up your computer by doing one of the following:  
• Pressing the power switch  
• Enabling the wake up on alarm feature  
The wake up on alarm feature enables your computer to wake up at a set time. To enable the wake  
up on alarm feature, do the following:  
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1. Start the Setup Utility program.  
2. From the Setup Utility program main menu, select Power ➙ Automatic Power On, and press Enter.  
3. Select Wake Up on Alarm and press Enter. Then follow the instructions on the screen.  
4. Press F10 to save changes and exit the Setup Utility program. Press Enter when prompted to  
confirm the exit.  
• Enabling the after power loss feature  
The after power loss feature enables your computer to wake up when the power supply resumes after a  
sudden loss of electricity. To enable the after power loss feature, do the following:  
1. Start the Setup Utility program.  
2. From the Setup Utility program main menu, select Power ➙ After Power Loss, and press Enter.  
3. Select Power On and press Enter.  
4. Press F10 to save changes and exit the Setup Utility program. Press Enter when prompted to  
confirm the exit.  
Exiting the Setup Utility program  
After you finish viewing or changing settings, press Esc to return to the Setup Utility program main menu.  
You might have to press Esc several times. Do one of the following:  
• If you want to save the new settings, press F10 to save changes and exit the Setup Utility program.  
• If you do not want to save the settings, select Exit ➙ Discard Changes and Exit, and then press Enter.  
When the Reset Without Saving window shows, select Yes, and then press Enter to exit the Setup  
Utility program.  
• If you want to return to the default settings, press F9 to load the default settings, and then press F10 to  
save and exit the Setup Utility program.  
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Chapter 8. Updating system programs  
This chapter provides information about updating the POST and BIOS, and how to recover from a POST  
and BIOS update failure.  
Using system programs  
System programs are the basic layer of software built into your computer. System programs include the  
POST, the BIOS, and the Setup Utility program. The POST is a set of tests and procedures that are  
performed each time you turn on your computer. The BIOS is a layer of software that translates instructions  
from other layers of software into electrical signals that the computer hardware can execute. You can use  
the Setup Utility program to view or change the configuration settings of your computer. See Chapter 7  
“Using the Setup Utility program” on page 73 for detailed information.  
Your computer system board has a module called electrically erasable programmable read-only memory  
(EEPROM, also referred to as flash memory). You can easily update the POST, the BIOS, and the Setup  
Utility program by starting your computer with a system-program-update disc or running a special update  
program from your operating system.  
Lenovo might make changes and enhancements to the POST and BIOS. When updates are released, they  
are available as downloadable files on the Lenovo Web site at http://www.lenovo.com. Instructions for using  
the POST and BIOS updates are available in a TXT file that is included with the update files. For most  
models, you can download either an update program to create a system-program-update disc or an update  
program that can be run from the operating system.  
Updating (flashing) the BIOS from a disc  
This section provides instructions on how to update (flash) the BIOS from a disc.  
Note: You can download a self-starting bootable disc image (known as an ISO image) with the system  
program updates to create a system-program-update disc. Go to:  
http://www.lenovo.com/support  
To update (flash) the BIOS from a disc, do the following:  
1. Turn off your computer.  
2. Repeatedly press and release the F12 key when turning on the computer. When the Startup Device  
Menu window opens, release the F12 key.  
3. From the Startup Device Menu window, select the desired optical drive as the startup device. Then,  
insert the disc into this optical drive and press Enter. The update begins.  
4. When prompted to change the serial number, it is suggested that you do not make this change by  
pressing N. However, if you do want to change the serial number, press Y, then type in the serial number  
and press Enter.  
5. When prompted to change the machine type and model, it is suggested that you do not make this  
change by pressing N. However, if you do want to change the machine type and model, press Y, then  
type in the machine type and model and press Enter.  
6. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the update. After the update is completed, remove the  
disc from the optical drive.  
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Updating (flashing) the BIOS from your operating system  
Note: Because Lenovo makes constant improvements to its Web sites, the Web page contents are subject  
to change without notice, including the contents referenced in the following procedure.  
To update (flash) the BIOS from your operating system, do the following:  
1. Go to http://www.lenovo.com/support.  
2. Do the following to locate the downloadable files for your machine type:  
a. In the Enter a product number field, type your machine type and click Go.  
b. Click Downloads and drivers.  
c. Select BIOS from the Refine results drop-down list box to easily locate all the BIOS related links.  
d. Click the BIOS update link.  
3. Click the TXT file that contains the instructions for updating (flashing) the BIOS from your operating  
system.  
4. Print these instructions. This is very important because these instructions will not be displayed on  
the screen after the download begins.  
5. Follow the printed instructions to download, extract, and install the update.  
Recovering from a POST/BIOS update failure  
If the power to your computer is interrupted while the POST and BIOS is being updated, your computer  
might not restart correctly. If this happens, perform the following procedure to recover from the POST and  
BIOS update failure. This procedure is commonly called Boot-block Recovery.  
1. Remove all media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer. Then, disconnect  
all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables that are connected to the computer.  
2. Open the computer cover. See “Opening the computer cover” on page 28.  
3. Locate the Clear CMOS /Recovery jumper on the system board. See “Locating parts on the system  
board” on page 12.  
4. Remove any cables that impede access to the Clear CMOS /Recovery jumper.  
5. Move the jumper from the standard position (pin 1 and pin 2) to the maintenance position (pin 2 and  
pin 3).  
6. Reconnect any cables that were disconnected and reinstall the PCI card if removed.  
7. Close the computer cover and reconnect the power cords for the computer and monitor to electrical  
outlets. See “Completing the parts replacement” on page 64.  
8. Turn on the computer and then insert the POST and BIOS update (flash update) disc into the optical  
drive. Wait a few minutes. Then, the recovery session begins. The recovery session will take two to  
three minutes. During this time, a warning message will be displayed and no action is needed from you.  
9. After the recovery session is completed, there will be no video, and your computer will automatically  
turn off.  
10. Repeat step 1 through step 4.  
11. Move the Clear CMOS /Recovery jumper back to the standard position (pin 1 and pin 2).  
12. Reconnect any cables that were disconnected and reinstall the PCI card if removed.  
13. Close the computer cover and reconnect any cables that were disconnected.  
14. Turn on the computer to restart the operating system.  
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Chapter 9. Preventing problems  
This chapter provides information that can help you avoid common problems and keep your computer  
running smoothly.  
Keeping your computer current  
In some situations you may find it necessary to have the most current software programs, device drivers, or  
operating system. This section explains how to get the latest updates for your computer.  
Select any of the following topics:  
•
•
•
“Getting the latest device drivers for your computer” on page 81  
“Updating your operating system” on page 81  
“Using System Update” on page 81  
Getting the latest device drivers for your computer  
You can download and install updated device drivers from the Lenovo Web site by doing the following:  
Attention: Do not download updated device drivers from the Windows Update Web site. The device  
drivers provided on the Windows Web site have not been tested by Lenovo and using them might cause  
unexpected problems. Obtain updated device drivers from Lenovo.  
1. Go to http://www.lenovo.com/support.  
2. Click Download & Drivers.  
3. Select the machine type of your computer from the machine type list.  
4. Click the category of device for which you need the device driver.  
5. Click the appropriate device driver.  
6. Download and install the device driver.  
Updating your operating system  
Microsoft makes updates available for the various Windows operating systems through the Microsoft  
Windows Update Web site. The Web site automatically determines what Windows updates are available for  
your specific computer and lists those updates only. Updates could include security fixes, new versions of  
Windows components (such as Media Player), fixes to other portions of the Windows operating system,  
or enhancements.  
Attention: Do not download updated device drivers from the Windows Web site. The device drivers  
provided on the Windows Web site have not been tested by Lenovo and using them might cause unexpected  
problems. Obtain updated device drivers from Lenovo. See “Getting the latest device drivers for your  
computer” on page 81 for more information.  
To access the Microsoft Windows Update site, do the following:  
1. Go to http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com/.  
2. Follow the instructions on the screen.  
Using System Update  
The System Update program helps you keep the software on your computer up-to-date. Update packages  
are stored on Lenovo servers and can be downloaded from the Lenovo Support Web site. Update packages  
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can contain applications, device drivers, BIOS flashes, or software updates. When the System Update  
program connects to the Lenovo Support Web site, the System Update program automatically recognizes  
the machine type and model of your computer, the installed operating system, and the language of the  
operating system to determine what updates are available for your computer. The System Update program  
then displays a list of update packages and categorizes each update as critical, recommended, and  
optional to help you understand the importance. You have complete control of which updates to download  
and install. After you select the update packages you want, the System Update program automatically  
downloads and installs the updates without any further intervention from you.  
The System Update program is preinstalled on most Lenovo computers and is ready to run. The only  
prerequisite is an active Internet connection. You can start the program manually, or you can use the  
schedule feature to enable the program to search for updates automatically at specified intervals. You also  
can predefine scheduled updates to search by severity (critical updates, critical and recommended updates,  
or all updates) so the list you choose from contains only those update types that are of interest to you.  
If the System Update program came with your computer, you can open it by completing the following  
procedure:  
1. Click Start ➙ Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools.  
2. Double-click Update and Drivers.  
If the System Update program is not currently installed on your computer, you can download it from the  
Lenovo Support Web site at http://www.lenovo.com/support.  
Cleaning and maintenance  
With appropriate care and maintenance your computer will serve you reliably. The following topics offer  
information to help you keep your computer in top working order.  
•
•
“Basics” on page 82  
“Cleaning your computer” on page 83  
–
“Computer” on page 83  
“Keyboard” on page 83  
–
–
–
“Optical mouse” on page 83  
“Display screen” on page 83  
•
“Good maintenance practices” on page 84  
Basics  
Here are some basic points about keeping your computer functioning properly:  
• Keep your computer in a clean, dry environment. Make sure it rests on a flat, steady surface.  
• Do not place items on top of the monitor or cover any of the vents in the monitor or computer. These  
vents provide airflow to keep your computer from overheating.  
• Keep food and drinks away from all parts of your computer. Food particles and spills might make the  
keyboard and mouse stick and unusable.  
• Do not get the power switches or other controls wet. Moisture can damage these parts and cause an  
electrical hazard.  
• Always disconnect a power cord by grasping the plug, but not the cord.  
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Cleaning your computer  
It is a good practice to clean your computer periodically to protect the surfaces and ensure trouble-free  
operation.  
CAUTION:  
Be sure to turn off the computer and monitor power switches before cleaning the computer and  
monitor screen.  
Computer  
Use only mild cleaning solutions and a damp cloth to clean the painted surfaces of the computer.  
Keyboard  
To clean your computer keyboard, do the following:  
1. Apply some isopropyl rubbing alcohol to a soft, dust-free cloth.  
2. Wipe each keytop surface with the cloth. Wipe the keys one by one; if you wipe several keys at a time,  
the cloth may hook onto an adjacent key and possibly damage it. Make sure that no liquid drips onto  
or between the keys.  
3. To remove any crumbs or dust from beneath the keys, you can use a camera blower with a brush  
or cool air from a hair dryer.  
Note: Avoid spraying cleaner directly onto the display or the keyboard.  
Optical mouse  
This section provides instructions on how to clean an optical mouse.  
An optical mouse uses a light-emitting diode (LED) and an optical sensor to navigate the pointer. If the  
pointer on the screen does not move smoothly with the optical mouse, you might need to clean the mouse.  
To clean an optical mouse, do the following:  
1. Turn off your computer.  
2. Disconnect the mouse cable from the computer.  
3. Turn the mouse upside down to check the lens.  
a. If there is a smudge on the lens, gently clean the area with a plain cotton-tipped swab.  
b. If there is debris in the lens, gently blow the debris away from the area.  
4. Check the surface on which you are using the mouse. If you have a very intricate picture or pattern  
beneath the mouse, it may be difficult for the digital signal processor (DSP) to determine changes  
in the mouse position.  
5. Reconnect the mouse cable to the computer.  
6. Turn your computer back on.  
Display screen  
Dust buildup compounds problems associated with glare. Remember to clean your monitor screen  
periodically. See “Cleaning a flat-panel monitor surface” on page 83 or “Cleaning a glass-screen surface”  
on page 84.  
Cleaning a flat-panel monitor surface  
If you have a flat-panel computer display that has a flexible film surface, do the following to clean the special  
surface. Wipe it gently with a soft, dry cloth, or blow on the screen to remove grit and other loose particles.  
Then moisten a cloth with LCD cleaner and wipe the screen surface.  
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83  
             
Many computer supply stores carry the special cleaning fluids for displays. Use cleaning fluids developed for  
LCD displays only. First apply the fluid to a lint-free, soft cloth, then clean the LCD display. Some computer  
supply stores carry pre-moistened towelettes for LCD maintenance.  
Cleaning a glass-screen surface  
To clean a glass-screen surface, wipe it gently with a soft, dry cloth, or blow on the screen to remove grit and  
other loose particles. Then use a soft cloth moistened with a nonabrasive liquid glass cleaner.  
Good maintenance practices  
By performing a few good maintenance practices, you can maintain good computer performance, protect  
your data, and be prepared in case of a computer failure.  
• Empty your recycle bin on a regular basis.  
• Run the Windows Disk Defragmenter program occasionally to prevent performance problems caused by  
an excessive number of fragmented files.  
• Clean out your Inbox, Sent Items, and Deleted Items folders in your e-mail application on a regular basis.  
• Make backup copies of critical data on removable media memory at regular intervals and store the  
removable media in a safe location. The frequency of making backup copies depends on how critical the  
data is to you or your business. Lenovo makes a number of removable-media storage devices available  
as options, such as CD-RW drives and recordable DVD drives.  
• Back up your entire hard disk drive on a regular basis.  
• Keep your computer software up-to-date. See “Keeping your computer current ” on page 81 for more  
information.  
• Keep a log book. Entries might include major software or hardware changes, device-driver updates,  
intermittent problems and what you did to resolve them, and any minor issues you might have  
experienced. A log book can help you or a Lenovo technician determine if a problem is related to change  
in hardware, change in software, or some other action that might have taken place.  
• Create Product Recovery discs. See “Creating and using recovery media” on page 65 for more information  
about using Product Recovery discs to restore the hard disk drive to the factory default settings.  
• Create rescue media. See “Creating and using a rescue medium” on page 68 for more information about  
using a Rescue medium such as a CD or DVD to recover from failures that prevent you from gaining  
access to the Windows environment or the Rescue and Recovery workspace on your hard disk drive.  
Moving your computer  
Take the following precautions before moving your computer.  
1. Back up all files and data from the hard disk drive. There are a variety of backup programs available  
commercially. Your operating system also might have a backup program that you can use. Lenovo  
provides the Rescue and Recovery program to help you back up and restore data. See “Performing  
backup and recovery operations” on page 66 for more information.  
2. Remove all media (diskettes, compact discs, tapes, and so on) from the drives.  
3. Turn off the computer and all attached devices. Your hard disk drive automatically parks the read/write  
head in a nondata area. This prevents damage to the hard disk drive.  
4. Unplug the power cords from electrical outlets.  
5. Disconnect communication cables, such as modem or network cables, from the outlets first, and then  
disconnect the other ends from the computer.  
6. Note where any remaining cables are attached to the computer; then, remove them.  
7. If you saved the original shipping cartons and packing materials, use them to pack the units. If you are  
using different cartons, cushion the units to avoid damage.  
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Chapter 10. Troubleshooting and diagnostics  
This chapter describes some basic troubleshooting and diagnostic programs. If your computer problem  
is not described here, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and service” on page 105 for additional  
troubleshooting resources.  
Basic troubleshooting  
The following table provides information to help you troubleshoot your computer problems.  
Note: If you cannot correct the problem, have the computer serviced. For a list of service and support  
telephone numbers, refer to the ThinkCentre Safety and Warranty Guide that comes with your computer or  
go to the Lenovo Support Web site at http://www.lenovo.com/support/phone.  
Symptom  
Action  
The computer does not start  
when you press the power  
switch.  
Verify that:  
• The power cord is correctly connected to the rear of the computer and to a  
working electrical outlet.  
• If your computer has a secondary power switch on the rear of the computer,  
make sure that it is switched on.  
• The power indicator on the front of the computer is on.  
• The computer voltage matches the voltage available at the electrical outlet for  
your country or region.  
The monitor screen is blank.  
Verify that:  
• The monitor signal cable is correctly connected to the monitor and to the  
appropriate monitor connector on the computer.  
• The monitor power cord is correctly connected to the monitor and to a working  
electrical outlet.  
• The monitor is turned on and the brightness and contrast controls are set  
correctly.  
• The computer voltage matches the voltage available at the electrical outlet for  
your country or region.  
• If your computer has two monitor connectors, be sure to use the connector  
on the graphics card.  
The keyboard does not work.  
The mouse does not work.  
Verify that:  
• The computer is turned on.  
• The keyboard is securely connected to a USB connector on the computer.  
• No keys are stuck.  
Verify that:  
• The computer is turned on.  
• The mouse is securely connected to a USB connector on the computer.  
• The mouse is clean. Refer to “Optical mouse” on page 83 for further information.  
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Symptom  
Action  
The operating system does not  
start.  
Verify that:  
• The startup sequence includes the device where the operating system resides.  
Usually, the operating system is on the hard disk drive. For more information,  
see “Selecting a startup device” on page 76.  
The computer beeps multiple  
times before the operating  
system starts.  
Verify that no keys are stuck.  
Troubleshooting procedure  
Use the following procedure as a starting point for diagnosing problems you are experiencing with your  
computer:  
1. Verify that the cables for all attached devices are connected correctly and securely.  
2. Verify that all attached devices that require ac power are connected to properly grounded, functioning  
electrical outlets.  
3. Verify that all attached devices are enabled in the BIOS settings of your computer. For more information  
about accessing and changing the BIOS settings, refer to your Chapter 7 “Using the Setup Utility  
program” on page 73.  
4. Go to the “Troubleshooting” on page 86 and follow the instructions for the type of problem you are  
experiencing. If the Troubleshooting information does not help you resolve a problem, continue with the  
next step.  
5. Try using a previously captured configuration to see if a recent change to hardware or software settings  
has caused a problem. Before restoring a previous configuration, capture your current configuration in  
case the older configuration settings do not solve the problem or have adverse affects. To restore a  
captured configuration, click Start ➙ Control Panel ➙ System and Security ➙ System ➙ System  
Protection ➙ System Restore. If this does not correct the problem, continue with the next step.  
6. Run the diagnostic programs. See “Diagnostic programs” on page 101 for more information.  
• If the diagnostic programs detect a hardware failure, contact the Lenovo Customer Support Center.  
See Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and service” on page 105 for more information.  
• If you are unable to run the diagnostic programs, contact the Lenovo Customer Support Center. See  
Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and service” on page 105 for more information.  
• If the diagnostic programs do not detect a hardware failure, continue with the next step.  
7. Use an antivirus program to see if your computer has been infected by a virus. If the program detects a  
virus, remove the virus.  
8. If none of these actions solve the problem, seek technical assistance. See Chapter 11 “Getting  
information, help, and service” on page 105 for more information.  
Troubleshooting  
Use the troubleshooting information to find solutions to problems that have definite symptoms.  
If the symptom your computer is experiencing occurred immediately after you installed a new hardware  
option or new software, do the following before referring to the troubleshooting information:  
1. Remove the new hardware option or software. If you must remove the computer cover to remove a  
hardware option, make sure you review and follow the electrical safety information provided with your  
computer. For your safety, do not operate the computer with the cover removed.  
2. Run the diagnostic programs to ensure your computer is operating correctly.  
3. Reinstall the new hardware option or software following the manufacturer's instructions.  
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Select the problem your computer is experiencing from the following list:  
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
“Audio problems” on page 87  
“CD problems” on page 88  
“DVD problems” on page 89  
“Intermittent problems” on page 91  
“Keyboard, mouse, or pointing device problems” on page 91  
“Monitor problems” on page 92  
“Networking problems” on page 94  
“Option problems” on page 97  
“Performance and lockup problems” on page 98  
“Printer problems” on page 99  
“Serial port problems” on page 100  
“Software problems” on page 100  
“USB problems” on page 101  
Audio problems  
Select your symptom from the following list:  
•
•
“No audio in Windows” on page 87  
“An audio disc or AutoPlay-enabled disc does not automatically play when it is inserted into a drive”  
on page 88  
•
•
“Sound comes from one external speaker only” on page 88  
“No audio in DOS applications or games” on page 88  
No audio in Windows  
Symptom: No audio in Windows  
Actions:  
• If you are using powered external speakers that have an On/Off control, verify that the On/Off control is  
set to the On position and the speaker power cable is connected to a properly grounded, functional ac  
electrical outlet.  
• If your external speakers have a volume control, verify that the volume control is not set too low.  
• Double-click the speaker icon in the Windows notification area. A master volume-control window opens.  
Verify that the Mute settings are not checked and none of the volume settings is set too low.  
• Some models have a front audio panel you can use to adjust volume. If you have a front audio panel,  
verify that the volume is not set too low.  
• Verify that your external speakers (and headphones, if used) are connected to the correct audio connector  
on the computer. Most speaker cables are color-coded to match the connector.  
Note: When external-speaker or headphone cables are attached to the audio connector, the internal  
speaker, if present, is disabled. In most cases, if an audio adapter is installed in one of the expansion slots,  
the audio function built into the system board is disabled; use the audio jacks on the adapter.  
• Make sure that the program you are running is designed for use in the Microsoft Windows operating  
system. If the program is designed to run in DOS, the program does not use the Windows sound feature  
and must be configured to use SoundBlaster Pro or SoundBlaster emulation.  
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• Verify that the audio device drivers are correctly installed. See Microsoft Windows help system for more  
information.  
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the diagnostic programs (see “Diagnostic programs” on  
page 101 for instructions). If you need technical assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and  
service” on page 105.  
An audio disc or AutoPlay-enabled disc does not automatically play when it is  
inserted into a drive  
Symptom: An audio disc or AutoPlay-enabled disc does not automatically play when it is inserted into a drive  
Action: See “CD problems” on page 88.  
Sound comes from one external speaker only  
Symptom: Sound comes from one external speaker only.  
Actions:  
• Ensure that the speaker cable is inserted completely into the connector on the computer.  
• Make sure the cable that attaches the left speaker to the right speaker is securely connected.  
• Double-click the speaker icon in the Windows notification area. A master volume-control window opens.  
Verify that the Balance settings are set correctly.  
If these actions do not correct the problem, you might have a failing speaker. Have the speaker serviced. If  
you need technical assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and service” on page 105.  
No audio in DOS applications or games  
Symptom: No audio in DOS applications or games  
Actions:  
• Make sure the DOS application or game is configured to use SoundBlaster Pro or SoundBlaster  
emulation. Refer to the documentation that comes with the application or game for instructions on  
setting sound-card settings.  
• If these actions do not correct the problem, run the diagnostic programs (see “Diagnostic programs” on  
page 101 for instructions). If you need technical assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help,  
and service” on page 105.  
CD problems  
Select your symptom from the following list:  
•
“An audio disc or AutoPlay-enabled disc does not automatically play when it is inserted into a CD  
drive” on page 88  
•
•
“A CD or DVD does not work” on page 89  
“Unable to use a startable (bootable) recovery medium, such as the Product Recovery CD, to start  
your computer” on page 89  
An audio disc or AutoPlay-enabled disc does not automatically play when it is  
inserted into a CD drive  
Symptom: An audio disc or AutoPlay-enabled disc does not automatically play when it is inserted into  
a CD drive.  
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Actions:  
• If you have multiple CD or DVD drives installed (or a combination of CD and DVD drives), try inserting the  
disc into the other drive. In some cases, only one of the drives is connected to the audio subsystem.  
• If you are using the Windows 7 operating system, follow the action for “A CD or DVD does not work”  
on page 89.  
If this does not correct the problem, follow the action for “A CD or DVD does not work” on page 89.  
A CD or DVD does not work  
Symptom: A CD or DVD does not work.  
Actions:  
• Verify that the disc is inserted correctly, with its label up.  
• Make sure that the disc you are using is clean. To remove dust or fingerprints, wipe the disc clean with a  
soft cloth from the center to the outside. Wiping a disc in a circular motion might cause loss of data.  
• Verify that the disc you are using is not scratched or damaged. Try inserting another disc that you know  
is good. If you cannot read from a known-good disc, you might have a problem with your CD or DVD  
drive or the cabling to your CD or DVD drive. Make sure that the power cable and signal cable are  
securely connected to the drive.  
Unable to use a startable (bootable) recovery medium, such as the Product Recovery  
CD, to start your computer  
Symptom: Unable to use a startable (bootable) recovery medium, such as the Product Recovery CD,  
to start your computer.  
Action: Make sure that the CD or DVD drive is in the startup sequence before the hard disk drive. Refer  
to your “Selecting or changing the startup device sequence” on page 76 for information on viewing and  
changing the startup sequence. Note that on some models the startup sequence is permanently set and  
cannot be changed.  
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the diagnostic programs (see “Diagnostic programs” on  
page 101 for instructions). If you need technical assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and  
service” on page 105.  
DVD problems  
Select your symptom from the following list:  
•
•
•
•
•
“Black screen instead of DVD video” on page 89  
“DVD movie will not play” on page 90  
“No audio or intermittent audio while playing DVD movie” on page 90  
“Playback is very slow or choppy” on page 90  
“Invalid disc or no disc found message” on page 90  
Black screen instead of DVD video  
Symptom: Black screen instead of DVD video  
Actions:  
• Restart the DVD player program.  
• Close any open files, turn off the computer, and then restart the computer.  
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• Try a lower screen resolution or color depth.  
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the diagnostic programs (see “Diagnostic programs” on  
page 101 for instructions). If you need technical assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and  
service” on page 105.  
DVD movie will not play  
Symptom: DVD movie will not play.  
Actions:  
• Make sure that the disc surface is clean and not scratched.  
• Check the disc or package for regional coding. You might need to purchase a disc with coding for  
the region where you are using your computer.  
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the diagnostic programs (see “Diagnostic programs” on  
page 101 for instructions). If you need technical assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and  
service” on page 105.  
No audio or intermittent audio while playing DVD movie  
Symptom: No audio or intermittent audio while playing DVD movie.  
Actions:  
• Check the volume control settings on your computer and on your speakers.  
• Make sure that the disc surface is clean and not scratched.  
• Check all cable connections to and from the speakers.  
• Use the DVD menu for the video to select a different audio track.  
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the diagnostic programs (see “Diagnostic programs” on  
page 101 for instructions). If you need technical assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and  
service” on page 105.  
Playback is very slow or choppy  
Symptom: Playback is very slow or choppy.  
Actions:  
• Disable any background programs, such as AntiVirus or Desktop Themes.  
• Ensure that video resolution is set to less than 1152 x 864.  
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the diagnostic programs (see “Diagnostic programs” on  
page 101 for instructions). If you need technical assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and  
service” on page 105.  
Invalid disc or no disc found message  
Symptom: Invalid disc or no disc found message  
Actions:  
• Ensure that a DVD disc is in the drive with the shiny side of the disc facing down.  
• Ensure that video resolution is set to less than 1152 x 864.  
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• On computers that have a CD-ROM or CD-RW drive in addition to a DVD-ROM drive, make sure that the  
DVD disc is in the drive labeled “DVD”.  
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the diagnostic programs (see “Diagnostic programs” on  
page 101 for instructions). If you need technical assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and  
service” on page 105.  
Intermittent problems  
Symptom: A problem occurs only occasionally and is difficult to repeat.  
Actions:  
• Verify that all cables and cords are securely connected to the computer and attached devices.  
• Verify that when the computer is on, the fan grill is not blocked (there is air flow around the grill), and the  
fans are working. If airflow is blocked or the fans are not working, the computer might overheat.  
• If SCSI devices are installed, verify that the last external device in each SCSI chain is terminated correctly.  
(See your SCSI documentation.)  
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the diagnostic programs (see “Diagnostic programs” on  
page 101 for instructions). If you need technical assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and  
service” on page 105.  
Keyboard, mouse, or pointing device problems  
Select your symptom from the following list:  
•
•
•
•
•
“All or some keys on the keyboard do not work” on page 91  
“The mouse or pointing device does not work” on page 92  
“The pointer on the screen does not move smoothly with the mouse” on page 92  
“The fingerprint reader does not work” on page 92  
“The wireless keyboard does not work” on page 92  
All or some keys on the keyboard do not work  
Symptom: All or some keys on the keyboard do not work.  
Actions:  
• Verify that the keyboard cable is securely connected to the correct connector on the computer.  
• If you are using an Enhanced Performance USB keyboard and one or more of the Rapid Access buttons  
are the only keys that are not working, these buttons might have been disabled or have not been assigned  
to a function. Use the help system in the Enhanced Performance Customization Keyboard program to  
help diagnose problems with the Rapid Access buttons.  
• On the Windows 7 operating system, do the following:  
1. Click Start ➙ Control Panel.  
2. Click Hardware and Sound.  
3. Click Devices and Printers.  
4. Double-click USB Enhanced Performance Keyboard. The USB Enhanced Performance Keyboard  
Customization program starts.  
If these actions do not correct the problem, have the computer and keyboard serviced. See Chapter 11  
“Getting information, help, and service” on page 105 for details.  
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The mouse or pointing device does not work  
Symptom: The mouse or pointing device does not work.  
Actions:  
• Verify that the mouse or pointing-device cable is securely attached to the correct connector on the  
computer. Depending on the type of mouse you have, the mouse cable will connect to either the  
mouse, serial, or USB connector. Some keyboards have integrated USB connectors that can be used  
for a USB mouse or pointing device.  
• Verify that the device drivers for the mouse or pointing device are installed correctly.  
• If you are using a USB keyboard or mouse, verify that the USB connectors are enabled in the BIOS  
settings. See “Enabling or disabling a device” on page 75.  
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the diagnostic programs (see “Diagnostic programs” on  
page 101 for instructions). If you need technical assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and  
service” on page 105.  
The pointer on the screen does not move smoothly with the mouse  
Symptom: The pointer on the screen does not move smoothly with the mouse.  
Action: Erratic movement of the mouse pointer is generally caused by a buildup of dirt, oils, and other  
contaminants on the ball inside the mouse. Clean the mouse. See “Optical mouse” on page 83 for  
instructions.  
The fingerprint reader does not work  
Symptom: The fingerprint reader does not work.  
Action: The following could cause the fingerprint reader not to operate properly:  
• Not enrolling your fingerprint correctly.  
• Scratching the surface of the reader with a hard, pointed object.  
• Scraping the surface of the reader with your nail or anything hard.  
• Using or touching the reader with a dirty finger.  
• The surface of your finger is very different from when you enrolled your fingerprint.  
The wireless keyboard does not work  
Symptom: The wireless keyboard does not work.  
Action: If the Transceiver Communications LED is on and the wireless Keyboard does not work, restart your  
computer. If restarting your computer does not solve the problem, verify that the following conditions are met:  
• The batteries are properly installed.  
• The batteries still retain their current.  
• The wireless Keyboard is located less than ten meters away from the transceiver.  
• The transceiver is fully installed.  
Action: If the Transceiver Communications LED is not on, reconnect the transceiver and the keyboard.  
Monitor problems  
Note: Many monitors have status-indicator lights and built-in controls for adjusting brightness, contrast,  
width, height, and other picture adjustments. However, the controls vary from monitor type to monitor type.  
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For information about the status lights and using the controls, refer to the documentation that comes  
with your monitor.  
Select your symptom from the following list:  
•
•
“Wrong characters appear on the screen” on page 93  
“The monitor works when you turn on the computer, but goes blank after some period of computer  
inactivity” on page 93  
•
“The monitor works when you turn on the computer, but goes blank when you start some application  
programs” on page 93  
•
•
“The image appears to be flickering” on page 93  
“The image is discolored” on page 94  
Wrong characters appear on the screen  
Symptom: Wrong characters appear on the screen.  
Action: Have the computer serviced. For details, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and service” on  
page 105.  
The monitor works when you turn on the computer, but goes blank after some period  
of computer inactivity  
Symptom: The monitor works when you turn on the computer, but goes blank after some period of computer  
inactivity.  
Action: The computer is probably set for energy savings with the power-management feature. If the  
power-management feature is enabled, disabling it or changing the settings might solve the problem.  
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the diagnostic programs (see “Diagnostic programs” on  
page 101 for instructions). If you need technical assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and  
service” on page 105.  
The monitor works when you turn on the computer, but goes blank when you start  
some application programs  
Symptom: The monitor works when you turn on the computer, but goes blank when you start some  
application programs.  
Actions:  
• Make sure the monitor signal cable is securely connected to the monitor and the monitor connector on  
the computer. A loose cable can cause intermittent problems.  
• Verify that the necessary device drivers for the application programs are installed. Refer to the  
documentation for the affected application program to see if device drivers are required.  
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the diagnostic programs (see “Diagnostic programs” on  
page 101 for instructions). If you need technical assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and  
service” on page 105.  
The image appears to be flickering  
Symptom: The image appears to be flickering.  
Actions:  
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• The monitor might be operating in a low-refresh rate display mode. Set the monitor to the highest,  
noninterlaced refresh rate supported by your monitor and the video controller in your computer.  
Attention: Using a resolution or refresh rate that is not supported by your monitor might damage it. Check  
the documentation that comes with your monitor to verify the supported refresh rates.  
• The monitor might be affected by interference from nearby equipment. Magnetic fields around other  
devices, such as transformers, appliances, fluorescent lights, and other monitors might be causing the  
problem. Move fluorescent desk lighting or any equipment that produces magnetic fields farther away  
from the monitor. If this does not correct the problem, do the following:  
1. Turn off the monitor. (Moving a color monitor while it is turned on might cause screen discoloration.)  
2. Adjust the placement of the monitor and other devices so that they are at least 305 mm (12 inches)  
apart.  
3. Turn on the monitor.  
• You can reset the refresh rate through your operating system Control Panel.  
On the Windows 7 operating system, click Start ➙ Control Panel ➙ Hardware and Sound ➙ Adjust  
screen resolution ➙ Advanced Settings. Then click the Monitor tab and select a new refresh rate.  
• See your operating system documentation or help for further information on monitor settings.  
If these actions do not correct the problem, your monitor might need service. See Chapter 11 “Getting  
information, help, and service” on page 105 for details.  
The image is discolored  
Symptom: The image is discolored.  
Action: The monitor might be affected by interference from nearby equipment. Magnetic fields around other  
devices, such as transformers, appliances, fluorescent lights, and other monitors might be causing the  
problem. Move fluorescent desk lighting or any equipment that produces magnetic fields further away from  
the monitor. If this does not correct the problem, do the following:  
1. Turn off the monitor. (Moving a color monitor while it is turned on might cause screen discoloration.)  
2. Adjust the placement of the monitor and other devices so that they are at least 305 mm (12 inches) apart.  
3. Turn on the monitor.  
If these actions do not correct the problem, your monitor might need service. See Chapter 11 “Getting  
information, help, and service” on page 105 for details.  
Networking problems  
The following are the most common networking problems. Select your networking problem from the  
following list:  
•
•
•
•
“Ethernet problems” on page 94  
“A wireless LAN problem” on page 96  
“A wireless WAN problem” on page 96  
“Bluetooth problems” on page 96  
For more information, see “Help and Support” on page 105.  
Ethernet problems  
For Ethernet problems, select your symptom from the following list:  
•
“Your computer cannot connect to the network” on page 95  
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•
•
“The adapter stops working for no apparent reason” on page 95  
“If your computer is a Gigabit Ethernet model and you use a speed of 1000 Mbps, the connection fails  
or errors occur” on page 96  
•
“If your computer is a Gigabit Ethernet model, it cannot connect to the network at 1000 Mbps. Instead,  
it connects at 100 Mbps” on page 96  
Your computer cannot connect to the network  
Symptom: Your computer cannot connect to the network.  
Actions: Make sure that:  
• The cable is installed properly.  
The network cable must be securely connected to both the Ethernet connector of your computer and  
the RJ45 connector of the hub. The maximum allowable distance from the computer to hub is 100  
meters. If the cable is connected and the distance is within acceptable limits but the problem persists, try  
a different cable.  
• The cable is installed properly.  
• You are using the correct device driver.  
On the Windows 7 operating system, do the following:  
1. Click Start ➙ Control Panel.  
2. Click Hardware and Sound.  
3. Click Device Manager. If you are prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, type the  
password or provide confirmation.  
4. If an exclamation mark is displayed next to an adapter name under Network adapters, you might not  
use the correct driver or the driver is not enabled. To update the driver, right-click the highlighted  
adapter.  
5. Click Update Driver Software, and then follow the instructions on the screen.  
• The switch port and the adapter have the same duplex setting.  
If you configured the adapter for full duplex, make sure the switch port is also configured for full duplex.  
Setting the wrong duplex mode can degrade performance, cause data loss, or result in lost connections.  
• You have installed all networking software that is necessary for your network environment.  
Check with your LAN administrator for the necessary networking software.  
The adapter stops working for no apparent reason  
Symptom: The adapter stops working for no apparent reason.  
Action: The network driver files may be corrupt or missing. Update the driver by referring to the “Solution”  
description for the procedure to make sure that the correct device driver is installed.  
The Wake on LAN feature is not working  
Symptom: The Wake on LAN (WOL) feature is not working.  
Actions:  
• Make sure that WOL is enabled in the BIOS Setup Utility program.  
• If it is, check with your LAN administrator for the necessary settings.  
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If your computer is a Gigabit Ethernet model and you use a speed of 1000 Mbps, the connection  
fails or errors occur  
Symptom: If your computer is a Gigabit Ethernet model and you use a speed of 1000 Mbps, the connection  
fails or errors occur.  
Actions:  
• Use Category 5 wiring and make sure that the network cable is securely connected.  
• Connect to a 1000 BASE-T hub/switch (not 1000 BASE-X).  
If your computer is a Gigabit Ethernet model, it cannot connect to the network at 1000 Mbps. Instead,  
it connects at 100 Mbps  
Symptom: If your computer is a Gigabit Ethernet model, it cannot connect to the network at 1000 Mbps.  
Instead, it connects at 100 Mbps.  
Actions:  
• Try another cable.  
• Make sure that the link partner is set to auto-negotiate.  
• Make sure that the switch is 802.3ab-compliant (gigabit over copper).  
A wireless LAN problem  
Symptom: You cannot connect using the built-in wireless networking card.  
Actions:  
• Make sure that your wireless LAN driver is the latest version. Check the Web site and verify the driver  
version supported by Access Connections is the latest documented in the readme file.  
• Make sure that your computer is within range of a wireless access point.  
• Make sure that the wireless radio is enabled by double-clicking the Access Connections icon in the  
Windows notification area.  
Note: On the Windows 7 operating system, click Show hidden icons in the Windows notification  
area. The Access Connections icon is displayed. For more information about the icon, see the Help in  
Access Connections.  
• Check Network Name (SSID), and your encryption information. Use Access Connections to verify this  
case-sensitive information.  
A wireless WAN problem  
Message: Unauthorized WAN card is plugged in - Power off and remove the WAN card.  
Action: The WAN card is not supported on this computer. Remove it.  
Note: Some computer models do not have a wireless WAN.  
Bluetooth problems  
For Bluetooth problems, select your symptom from the following list:  
•
•
“Sound does not come from the Bluetooth headphone” on page 97  
“PIM items sent from the Windows 7 operating system cannot be received correctly” on page 97  
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Sound does not come from the Bluetooth headphone  
Symptom: Sound does not come from the Bluetooth headset/headphone but comes from the local speaker  
even though the headset/headphone is connected using Headset profile or AV profile.  
Action: Do the following:  
1. Exit the application that uses the sound device (for example, Windows Media Player).  
2. Open the Control Panel by clicking Start ➙ Control Panel.  
3. Click Hardware and Sound ➙ Sound.  
4. Select the Playback tab.  
5. If you are using Headset profile, select Bluetooth Hands-free Audio and click the Set Default button. If  
you are using AV profile, select Stereo Audio and click the Set Default button.  
6. Click OK to close the Sound window.  
PIM items sent from the Windows 7 operating system cannot be received correctly  
Symptom: Personal Information Manager (PIM) items sent from the Windows 7 operating system cannot be  
received correctly into the address book of any other Bluetooth-enabled device.  
Action: The Windows 7 operating system sends PIM items in XML format, but most Bluetooth-enabled  
devices handle PIM items in vCard format. If another Bluetooth-enabled device can receive a file through  
Bluetooth, a PIM item sent from the Windows 7 operating system might be saved as a file with the extension  
.contact.  
Option problems  
Use this information to diagnose problems with Lenovo hardware options that do not have their own  
troubleshooting information.  
Select your symptom from the following list:  
•
•
“An option that was just installed does not work” on page 97  
“An option that previously worked does not work now” on page 97  
An option that was just installed does not work  
Symptom: An option that was just installed does not work.  
Action: Verify that:  
• The option is designed for your computer.  
• You followed the installation instructions supplied with the option and the installation instructions provided  
with your computer, and all option files (such as device drivers, if required) are installed correctly.  
• You have not loosened other installed options or cables.  
• If the option is an adapter, you have provided enough hardware resources for the adapter to function  
correctly. See the documentation supplied with the adapter (as well as the documentation for any other  
installed adapters) to determine the resources required for each adapter.  
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the diagnostic programs (see “Diagnostic programs” on  
page 101 for instructions). If you need technical assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and  
service” on page 105.  
An option that previously worked does not work now  
Symptom: An option that previously worked does not work now.  
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Actions:  
• Verify that all option hardware and cable connections are secure.  
• If the option comes with its own test instructions, use those instructions to test the option.  
• If the failing option is a SCSI option, verify that:  
– The cables for all external SCSI options are connected correctly.  
– The last option in each SCSI chain, or the end of the SCSI cable, is terminated correctly.  
– All external SCSI options are turned on. External SCSI options must be turned on before the computer  
is turned on. For more information, see your SCSI documentation.  
• Verify that the option and any required device drivers are installed correctly.  
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the diagnostic programs (see “Diagnostic programs” on  
page 101 for instructions). If you need technical assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and  
service” on page 105.  
Performance and lockup problems  
Poor performance and lockup problems can be a result of any of the following:  
•
•
•
“Insufficient free hard disk drive space” on page 98  
“Excessive number of fragmented files” on page 99  
“Insufficient memory” on page 99  
Make a selection from the above list to find out more about the corrective actions you can take.  
Insufficient free hard disk drive space  
Symptom: Insufficient free hard disk drive space  
The Windows operating system will slow down and might produce errors if the hard disk drive gets too full.  
To check the amount of free space on the Windows 7 operating system, do the following:  
1. Click Start ➙ Computer.  
2. Right-click your C drive entry and then click Properties. The amount of free disk space is displayed.  
Actions to free up disk space:  
•
1. Click Start ➙ Computer.  
2. Right-click your C drive entry and then click Properties.  
3. Click Disk Cleanup.  
4. A list of unnecessary file categories is displayed. Select each file category you want to delete,  
and then click OK.  
•
1. Click Start ➙ Control Panel.  
2. Click Programs.  
3. Click Turn Windows features on or off.  
4. A list of optional Windows components is displayed. Follow the instructions on the screen.  
•
1. Click Start ➙ Computer.  
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2. Right-click your C drive entry and then click Properties.  
3. Click Disk Cleanup.  
4. Click Clean up system files.  
5. Click the More Options tab.  
6. In the Programs and Features area, click the Clean up button.  
7. A list of installed applications is displayed. Select the application you want to remove. Click  
Uninstall/Change.  
• Clean out your Inbox, Sent Items, and Deleted Items folders from your e-mail application. The folder  
names and procedures vary depending on your e-mail application. If you need assistance, see the  
help system for your e-mail application.  
Excessive number of fragmented files  
Symptom: Excessive number of fragmented files  
Action: Run the Windows Disk Defragmenter program.  
Note: Depending on the size of the hard disk drive and amount of data currently stored on the hard disk  
drive, the disk defragmentation process might take up to several hours to complete.  
On the Windows 7 operating system, do the following:  
1. Close any programs that are currently running and close any open windows.  
2. Click Start ➙ Computer.  
3. Right-click your C drive entry and then click Properties.  
4. Click the Tools tab.  
5. Click Defragment Now, then click Continue.  
6. Click Defragment Now again to start a disk-defragmentation process.  
Insufficient memory  
Symptom: Insufficient memory  
In general, the more memory that is installed, the better the Windows operating system runs.  
Action: Install additional memory. For information about purchasing memory, see Chapter 11 “Getting  
information, help, and service” on page 105. For step-by-step instructions on installing memory, see  
“Installing or replacing a memory module” on page 31.  
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the diagnostic programs (see “Diagnostic programs” on  
page 101 for instructions). If you need technical assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and  
service” on page 105.  
Printer problems  
Symptom: The printer does not work.  
Actions: Verify that:  
1. The printer is turned on and is online.  
2. Paper is loaded correctly.  
3. The printer signal cable is securely connected to the correct parallel, serial, or USB connector on the  
computer.  
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Note: Non-IEEE-approved printer signal cables might cause unpredictable problems.  
1. Any device drivers and other software that came with the printer are correctly installed.  
2. You have assigned the printer port correctly in your operating system, application program, or BIOS  
settings. For more information about BIOS settings, see Chapter 7 “Using the Setup Utility program”  
on page 73.  
If the problem persists, run the tests described in the documentation that comes with your printer. If you  
cannot correct the problem, have the computer serviced. See Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and  
service” on page 105.  
Serial port problems  
Use this information to troubleshoot the serial port and devices attached to the serial port.  
Symptom: Serial port cannot be accessed.  
Actions:  
• Make sure the serial cable is securely connected to the serial port on the computer and to the serial device.  
If the serial device has its own power cord, make sure it is attached to a properly grounded electrical outlet.  
• If the serial device has its own On/Off switch, make sure it is in the On position.  
• If the serial device has an Online switch, make sure it is in the Online position.  
• If the serial device is a printer, make sure paper is loaded correctly.  
• Verify that any software supplied with the serial device is correctly installed. Refer to the documentation  
for the serial-device option.  
• Make sure that the serial-port adapter, if you added one, is properly installed and firmly seated.  
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the diagnostic programs (see “Diagnostic programs” on  
page 101 for instructions). If you need technical assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and  
service” on page 105.  
Software problems  
Select your symptom from the following list:  
•
•
“When using a sort feature, dates do not sort in the correct order” on page 100  
“Software does not work as expected” on page 100  
When using a sort feature, dates do not sort in the correct order  
Symptom: When using a sort feature, dates do not sort in the correct order.  
Action: Some software developed before the year 2000 used only the last two digits of a year to sort  
dates, always assuming the first two digits were 19. Consequently, these programs sort dates out of order.  
Check with your software manufacturer to see if any updates are available. Many software manufacturers  
make updates available from the World Wide Web.  
Software does not work as expected  
Symptom: Software does not work as expected.  
Actions:  
• Most software programs have built-in help systems that provide instructions for most tasks. If you are  
having difficulty performing a specific task within a software program, refer to the help system for that  
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program. Help systems are typically accessible from a menu or button in the program, and frequently  
from the F1 key.  
• If you are having difficulty with the Windows operating system or one of its components, refer to the  
Windows help system. It is accessible from the Windows Start menu.  
• To determine if problems are caused by newly installed software, verify that:  
– Your computer has the minimum memory requirements needed to use the software. See the  
information supplied with the software to verify memory requirements. (If you just installed an adapter  
or memory, you might have a memory-address conflict.)  
– The software is designed to operate on your computer.  
– Other software works on your computer.  
– The software you are using works correctly on another computer.  
• If you received any error messages while using the software program, see the printed documentation  
supplied with the software or the help system for that software for a description of the messages and  
solutions to the problem.  
• Check with your software manufacturer to see if any updates are available. Many software manufacturers  
make updates available from the World Wide Web.  
• If the software program used to work correctly, but does not work correctly now, click Start ➙ Control  
Panel ➙ System and Security ➙ System ➙ System Protection ➙ System Restore.  
• If you are unable to resolve the problem through other methods, uninstall the software program and  
reinstall it.  
If these actions do not correct the problem, you might need technical assistance. Contact your software  
manufacturer or see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and service” on page 105 for details.  
USB problems  
Symptom: The USB connectors cannot be accessed.  
Actions:  
• Make sure the USB cable is securely connected to the USB connector and to the USB device. If the USB  
device has its own power cord, make sure it is attached to a properly grounded electrical outlet.  
• If the USB device has its own On/Off switch, make sure it is in the On position.  
• If the USB device has an Online switch, make sure it is in the Online position.  
• If the USB device is a printer, make sure paper is loaded correctly.  
• Make sure any device drivers or other software supplied with the USB device is correctly installed.  
Refer to the documentation for the USB device.  
• Reset the device by detaching and reattaching the USB connector.  
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the diagnostic programs to test the USB connector (see  
“Diagnostic programs” on page 101 for instructions). If the USB device came with its own diagnostics, run  
those diagnostics against the USB device. If you need technical assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting  
information, help, and service” on page 105.  
Diagnostic programs  
Diagnostic programs are used to test hardware components of your computer. Diagnostic programs can  
also report operating-system-controlled settings that interfere with the correct operation of your computer.  
You can use the preinstalled diagnostic program to diagnose computer problems, if your computer is  
running the Windows operating system.  
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Notes:  
1. Depending on the date when your computer was manufactured, your computer is preinstalled with  
either the Lenovo Solution Center program or the Lenovo ThinkVantage Toolbox program for diagnostic  
purposes. For more information about the Lenovo ThinkVantage Toolbox program, see “Lenovo  
ThinkVantage Toolbox” on page 102. For more information about the Lenovo Solution Center program,  
see “Lenovo Solution Center” on page 102.  
2. You can also download the PC-Doctor for DOS diagnostic program from http://www.lenovo.com/support.  
See “PC-Doctor for DOS” on page 102 for detailed information.  
3. If you are unable to isolate and repair the problem yourself after running the programs, save and print  
the log files created by the programs. You will need the log files when you speak to a Lenovo technical  
support representative.  
Lenovo Solution Center  
The Lenovo Solution Center program enables you to troubleshoot and resolve computer problems. It  
combines diagnostic tests, system information collection, security status, and support information, along  
with hints and tips for maximum system performance.  
Notes:  
• The Lenovo Solution Center program is available only on models preinstalled with the Windows 7  
operating system. If your Windows 7 model is not preinstalled with the program, you can download it  
from http://www.lenovo.com/support.  
• If you are using the Windows Vista or Windows XP operating system, go to  
http://www.lenovo.com/diagnose for the latest information on diagnostics for your  
computer.  
To run the Lenovo Solution Center program on the Windows 7 operating system, click Start ➙ All Programs  
➙ Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools ➙ System Health and Diagnostics. Follow the instructions on the screen.  
For additional information, refer to the Lenovo Solution Center help system.  
Note: If you are unable to isolate and repair the problem yourself after running the program, save and print  
the log files created by the program. You will need the log files when you speak to a Lenovo technical  
support representative.  
Lenovo ThinkVantage Toolbox  
The Lenovo ThinkVantage Toolbox program helps you maintain your computer, improve computing security,  
diagnose computer problems, get familiar with the innovative technologies provided by Lenovo, and get  
more information about your computer. You can use the diagnostics feature of the Lenovo ThinkVantage  
Toolbox program to test devices, diagnose computer problems, create bootable diagnostic media, update  
system drivers, and view system information.  
To run the Lenovo ThinkVantage Toolbox program on the Windows 7 operating system, click Start ➙ All  
Programs ➙ Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools ➙ System Health and Diagnostics. Follow the instructions on  
the screen.  
Follow the instructions on the screen. For additional information, refer to the Lenovo ThinkVantage Toolbox  
help system.  
PC-Doctor for DOS  
You can also download the latest version of the PC-Doctor for DOS diagnostic program from  
http://www.lenovo.com/support. The PC-Doctor for DOS diagnostic program runs independently of the  
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Windows operating system. Use the PC-Doctor for DOS diagnostic program if you are unable to start the  
Windows operating system or if the two diagnostic programs preinstalled on your computer have not  
been successful in isolating a possible problem. You can run the PC-Doctor for DOS diagnostic program  
from a diagnostic disc that you created.  
Creating a diagnostic disc  
This section provides instructions on how to create a diagnostic disc.  
To create a diagnostic disc, do the following:  
1. Download a self-starting bootable CD/DVD image (known as an ISO image) of the diagnostic program  
from:  
http://www.lenovo.com/support  
2. Use any CD/DVD burning software to create a diagnostic disc with the ISO image.  
Running the diagnostic program from a diagnostic disc  
This section provides instructions on how to run the diagnostic program from a diagnostic disc that you  
created.  
To run the diagnostic program from a diagnostic disc that you created, do the following:  
1. Make sure the optical drive you want to use is set as the first boot device in the startup device sequence.  
See “Selecting or changing the startup device sequence” on page 76.  
2. Make sure the computer is turned on and then insert the disc into the optical drive. The diagnostic  
program opens.  
Note: You can insert the disc into the optical drive when you are setting the startup device sequence.  
However, if you insert the disc into the optical drive when you have already entered the operating  
system, you need to restart the computer to access the diagnostic program.  
3. Follow the instructions on the screen to select the diagnostic test you want to run.  
Note: For additional help, press the F1 key.  
4. Remove the diagnostic disc from the optical drive when you complete the diagnostic process.  
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Chapter 11. Getting information, help, and service  
This chapter contains information about help, service, and technical assistance for products manufactured  
by Lenovo.  
Information resources  
You can use the information in this section to access useful resources relating to your computing needs.  
Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools  
The Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools program guides you to a host of information sources and provides easy  
access to various tools to help you work more easily and securely.  
To access the Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools program, click Start ➙ All Programs ➙ Lenovo ThinkVantage  
Tools.  
Lenovo Welcome  
The Lenovo Welcome program introduces you to some innovative built-in features of Lenovo and guides you  
through a few important setup tasks to help you make the most of your computer.  
Help and Support  
The Windows Help and Support information system guides you to various help and support information  
from Lenovo and Microsoft, such as updating drivers, accessing ThinkVantage Technologies, and accessing  
user manuals.  
To access the Windows Help and Support information system, click Start ➙ Help and Support.  
Safety and Warranty  
The Safety, Warranty, and Setup Guide that is provided with your computer contains information on safety,  
setup, warranty, and notices. Read and understand all safety information before using this product.  
Lenovo Web site (http://www.lenovo.com)  
The Lenovo Web site provides up-to-date information and services to help you buy, upgrade, and maintain  
your computer. You can also do the following:  
• Shop for desktop and notebook computers, monitors, projectors, upgrades and accessories for your  
computer, and special offers.  
• Purchase additional services, such as support for hardware, operating systems, application programs,  
network setup and configuration, and custom installations.  
• Purchase upgrades and extended hardware repair services.  
• Download the latest device drivers and software updates for your computer model.  
• Access the online manuals for your products.  
• Access the Lenovo Limited Warranty.  
• Access troubleshooting and support information for your computer model and other supported products.  
• Find the service and support phone numbers for your country or region.  
• Find a Service Provider located near you.  
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Lenovo Support Web site  
Technical support information is available on the Lenovo Support Web site at:  
http://www.lenovo.com/support  
This Web site is updated with the latest support information such as the following:  
• Drivers and software  
• Diagnostic solutions  
• Product and service warranty  
• Product and parts details  
• User guides and manuals  
• Knowledge base and frequently asked questions  
Help and service  
This section contains information about obtaining help and service.  
Using the documentation and diagnostic program  
If you experience a problem with your computer, see Chapter 10 “Troubleshooting and diagnostics” on  
page 87. For information on additional resources to help you troubleshoot your computer problem, see  
“Information resources” on page 105.  
If you suspect a software problem, see the documentation that comes with the operating system or software  
program, including readme files and online help.  
Most computers come with a diagnostic program that help you identify hardware problems.  
You can also get the latest technical information and download device drivers and updates from Lenovo  
Support Web site at:  
http://www.lenovo.com/support  
Calling for service  
During the warranty period, you can get help and information by telephone through the Customer Support  
Center.  
The following services are available during the warranty period:  
• Problem determination - Trained service personnel are available to assist you with determining a  
hardware problem and deciding what action is necessary to fix the problem.  
• Hardware repair - If the problem is caused by hardware under warranty, trained service personnel are  
available to provide the applicable level of service.  
• Engineering Change management - There might be changes that are required after a product has  
been sold. Lenovo or your reseller will make selected Engineering Changes (ECs) that apply to your  
hardware available.  
These items are not covered by the warranty:  
• Replacement or use of parts not manufactured for or by Lenovo or non-warranted Lenovo parts  
• Identification of software problem sources  
• Configuration of BIOS as part of an installation or upgrade  
• Changes, modifications, or upgrades to device drivers  
• Installation and maintenance of network operating systems (NOS)  
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• Installation and maintenance of application programs  
Refer to the Safety, Warranty, and Setup Guide that comes with your computer for information about your  
warranty type and duration. You must retain your proof of purchase to obtain warranty service.  
For a list of the Lenovo Support phone numbers for your country or region, go to  
http://www.lenovo.com/support/phone or refer to the Safety, Warranty, and Setup Guide that comes with  
your computer.  
Note: Phone numbers are subject to change without notice. If the number for your country or region is not  
provided, contact your Lenovo reseller or Lenovo marketing representative.  
If possible, be at your computer when you call. Have the following information available:  
• Machine type and model  
• Serial numbers of your hardware products  
• Description of the problem  
• Exact wording of any error messages  
• Hardware and software configuration information  
Using other services  
If you travel with your computer or relocate it to a country where your desktop or notebook computer  
machine type is sold, your computer might be eligible for International Warranty Service, which automatically  
entitles you to obtain warranty service throughout the warranty period. Service will be performed by service  
providers authorized to perform warranty service.  
Service methods and procedures vary by country, and some services might not be available in all countries.  
International Warranty Service is delivered through the method of service (such as depot, carry-in, or  
on-site service) that is provided in the servicing country. Service centers in certain countries might not be  
able to service all models of a particular machine type. In some countries, fees and restrictions might  
apply at the time of service.  
To determine whether your computer is eligible for International Warranty Service and to view a list of  
the countries where service is available, go to http://www.lenovo.com/support, click Product & Service  
Warranty, and follow the instructions on the screen.  
For technical assistance with the installation of or questions related to Service Packs for your  
preinstalled Microsoft Windows product, refer to the Microsoft Product Support Services Web site at  
http://support.microsoft.com/directory or you can contact the Customer Support Center. Some fees might  
apply.  
Purchasing additional services  
During and after the warranty period, you can purchase additional services, such as support for hardware,  
operating systems, and application programs; network setup and configuration services; upgraded or  
extended hardware repair services; and custom installation services. Service availability and service name  
might vary by country or region. For more information about these services, go to the Lenovo Web site at:  
http://www.lenovo.com  
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Appendix A. Notices  
Lenovo may not offer the products, services, or features discussed in this document in all countries. Consult  
your local Lenovo representative for information on the products and services currently available in your  
area. Any reference to a Lenovo product, program, or service is not intended to state or imply that only that  
Lenovo product, program, or service may be used. Any functionally equivalent product, program, or service  
that does not infringe any Lenovo intellectual property right may be used instead. However, it is the user's  
responsibility to evaluate and verify the operation of any other product, program, or service.  
Lenovo may have patents or pending patent applications covering subject matter described in this  
document. The furnishing of this document does not give you any license to these patents. You can send  
license inquiries, in writing, to:  
Lenovo (United States), Inc.  
1009 Think Place - Building One  
Morrisville, NC 27560  
U.S.A.  
Attention: Lenovo Director of Licensing  
LENOVO PROVIDES THIS PUBLICATION “AS IS” WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS  
OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF NON-INFRINGEMENT,  
MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. Some jurisdictions do not allow  
disclaimer of express or implied warranties in certain transactions, therefore, this statement may not apply  
to you.  
This information could include technical inaccuracies or typographical errors. Changes are periodically  
made to the information herein; these changes will be incorporated in new editions of the publication.  
Lenovo may make improvements and/or changes in the product(s) and/or the program(s) described in this  
publication at any time without notice.  
The products described in this document are not intended for use in implantation or other life support  
applications where malfunction may result in injury or death to persons. The information contained in this  
document does not affect or change Lenovo product specifications or warranties. Nothing in this document  
shall operate as an express or implied license or indemnity under the intellectual property rights of Lenovo  
or third parties. All information contained in this document was obtained in specific environments and is  
presented as an illustration. The result obtained in other operating environments may vary.  
Lenovo may use or distribute any of the information you supply in any way it believes appropriate without  
incurring any obligation to you.  
Any references in this publication to non-Lenovo Web sites are provided for convenience only and do not in  
any manner serve as an endorsement of those Web sites. The materials at those Web sites are not part of  
the materials for this Lenovo product, and use of those Web sites is at your own risk.  
Any performance data contained herein was determined in a controlled environment. Therefore, the result  
obtained in other operating environments may vary significantly. Some measurements may have been  
made on development-level systems and there is no guarantee that these measurements will be the same  
on generally available systems. Furthermore, some measurements may have been estimated through  
extrapolation. Actual results may vary. Users of this document should verify the applicable data for their  
specific environment.  
© Copyright Lenovo 2011, 2012  
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Trademarks  
The following terms are trademarks of Lenovo in the United States, other countries, or both:  
Lenovo  
The Lenovo logo  
Rescue and Recovery  
ThinkCentre  
ThinkVantage  
Microsoft and Windows are trademarks of the Microsoft group of companies.  
AMD, AMD Athlon, AMD Phenom, AMD Sempron, and combinations thereof are trademarks of Advanced  
Micro Devices, Inc.  
Linux is a trademark of Linus Torvalds in the United States, other countries, or both.  
Other company, product, or service names may be trademarks or service marks of others.  
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Appendix B. Regulatory information  
Export classification notice  
This product is subject to the United States Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and has an Export  
Classification Control Number (ECCN) of 4A994.b. It can be re-exported except to any of the embargoed  
countries in the EAR E1 country list.  
Television output notice  
The following notice applies to models that have the factory-installed television-output feature.  
This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by method claims of certain U.S.  
patents and other intellectual property rights owned by Macrovision Corporation and other rights owners.  
Use of this copyright protection technology must be authorized by Macrovision Corporation, and is intended  
for home and other limited viewing uses only unless otherwise authorized by Macrovision Corporation.  
Reverse engineering or disassembly is prohibited.  
Electronic emissions notices  
The following information refers to Lenovo personal computer machine types 1996, 1997, 2002, 2010,  
2208, 2209, 2221, 2224, 2226, and 2227.  
Federal Communications Commission Declaration of Conformity  
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant  
to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful  
interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency  
energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference  
to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular  
installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be  
determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by  
one or more of the following measures:  
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.  
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.  
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.  
• Consult an authorized dealer or service representative for help.  
Lenovo is not responsible for any radio or television interference caused by using other than specified or  
recommended cables and connectors or by unauthorized changes or modifications to this equipment.  
Unauthorized changes or modifications could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.  
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1)  
this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received,  
including interference that may cause undesired operation.  
Responsible Party:  
Lenovo (United States) Incorporated  
1009 Think Place - Building One  
Morrisville, NC 27560  
Phone Number: 919-294-5900  
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Industry Canada Class B emission compliance statement  
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.  
Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.  
European Union - Compliance to the Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive  
This product is in conformity with the protection requirements of EU Council Directive 2004/108/EC on the  
approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to electromagnetic compatibility. Lenovo cannot  
accept responsibility for any failure to satisfy the protection requirements resulting from a non-recommended  
modification of the product, including the installation of option cards from other manufacturers.  
This product has been tested and found to comply with the limits for Class B Information Technology  
Equipment according to European Standard EN 55022. The limits for Class B equipment were derived  
for typical residential environments to provide reasonable protection against interference with licensed  
communication devices.  
German Class B compliance statement  
Deutschsprachiger EU Hinweis:  
Hinweis für Geräte der Klasse B EU-Richtlinie zur Elektromagnetischen Verträglichkeit  
Dieses Produkt entspricht den Schutzanforderungen der EU-Richtlinie 2004/108/EG (früher 89/336/EWG) zur  
Angleichung der Rechtsvorschriften über die elektromagnetische Verträglichkeit in den EU-Mitgliedsstaaten  
und hält die Grenzwerte der EN 55022 Klasse B ein.  
Um dieses sicherzustellen, sind die Geräte wie in den Handbüchern beschrieben zu installieren und zu  
betreiben. Des Weiteren dürfen auch nur von der Lenovo empfohlene Kabel angeschlossen werden.  
Lenovo übernimmt keine Verantwortung für die Einhaltung der Schutzanforderungen, wenn das Produkt  
ohne Zustimmung der Lenovo verändert bzw. wenn Erweiterungskomponenten von Fremdherstellern ohne  
Empfehlung der Lenovo gesteckt/eingebaut werden.  
Deutschland:  
Einhaltung des Gesetzes über die elektromagnetische Verträglichkeit von Betriebsmitteln  
Dieses Produkt entspricht dem „Gesetz über die elektromagnetische Verträglichkeit von Betriebsmitteln“  
EMVG (früher „Gesetz über die elektromagnetische Verträglichkeit von Geräten“). Dies ist die Umsetzung der  
EU-Richtlinie 2004/108/EG (früher 89/336/EWG) in der Bundesrepublik Deutschland.  
Zulassungsbescheinigung laut dem Deutschen Gesetz über die elektromagnetische Verträglichkeit  
von Betriebsmitteln, EMVG vom 20. Juli 2007 (früher Gesetz über die elektromagnetische  
Verträglichkeit von Geräten), bzw. der EMV EG Richtlinie 2004/108/EC (früher 89/336/EWG), für  
Geräte der Klasse B.  
Dieses Gerät ist berechtigt, in Übereinstimmung mit dem Deutschen EMVG das EG-Konformitätszeichen  
- CE - zu führen. Verantwortlich für die Konformitätserklärung nach Paragraf 5 des EMVG ist die Lenovo  
(Deutschland) GmbH, Gropiusplatz 10, D-70563 Stuttgart.  
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Informationen in Hinsicht EMVG Paragraf 4 Abs. (1) 4:  
Das Gerät erfüllt die Schutzanforderungen nach EN 55024 und EN 55022 Klasse B.  
Korea Class B compliance statement  
Japanese VCCI Class B statement  
Japan compliance statement for products which connect to the power mains with rated current  
less than or equal to 20 A per phase  
Lenovo product service information for Taiwan  
Keyboard and mouse compliance statement for Taiwan  
Additional regulatory information  
For additional regulatory information, refer to the ThinkCentre Regulatory Notice shipped with your computer.  
Depending on the configuration of your computer and the country or region where the computer was  
purchased, you might have received additional printed regulatory notices. All regulatory notices are available  
on the Lenovo Support Web site in electronic format. To access electronic copies of the documentation, go  
to http://www.lenovo.com/support and click User Guides & Manuals.  
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Appendix C. WEEE and recycling information  
Important WEEE Information  
The WEEE marking on Lenovo products applies to countries with WEEE and e-waste regulations (for example,  
European Directive 2002/96/EC, India E-Waste Management & Handling Rules, 2011). Appliances are  
labeled in accordance with local regulations concerning waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE).  
These regulations determine the framework for the return and recycling of used appliances as applicable  
within each geography. This label is applied to various products to indicate that the product is not to be  
thrown away, but rather put in the established collective systems for reclaiming these end of life products.  
Users of electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) with the WEEE marking must not dispose of end of  
life EEE as unsorted municipal waste, but use the collection framework available to them for the return,  
recycle, and recovery of WEEE and to minimize any potential effects of EEE on the environment and  
human health due to the presence of hazardous substances. For additional WEEE information go to:  
http://www.lenovo.com/recycling  
Recycling information  
Lenovo encourages owners of information technology (IT) equipment to responsibly recycle their equipment  
when it is no longer needed. Lenovo offers a variety of programs and services to assist equipment owners in  
recycling their IT products. For information on recycling Lenovo products, go to:  
http://www.lenovo.com/recycling  
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Collecting and recycling a disused Lenovo computer or monitor  
If you are a company employee and need to dispose of a Lenovo computer or monitor that is the property  
of the company, you must do so in accordance with the Law for Promotion of Effective Utilization of  
Resources. Computers and monitors are categorized as industrial waste and should be properly disposed  
of by an industrial waste disposal contractor certified by a local government. In accordance with the Law  
for Promotion of Effective Utilization of Resources, Lenovo Japan provides, through its PC Collecting  
and Recycling Services, for the collecting, reuse, and recycling of disused computers and monitors. For  
details, visit the Lenovo Web site at http://www.lenovo.com/recycling/japan. Pursuant to the Law for  
Promotion of Effective Utilization of Resources, the collecting and recycling of home-used computers  
and monitors by the manufacturer was begun on October 1, 2003. This service is provided free of  
charge for home-used computers sold after October 1, 2003. For details, visit the Lenovo Web site at  
http://www.lenovo.com/recycling/japan.  
Disposing of Lenovo computer components  
Some Lenovo computer products sold in Japan may have components that contain heavy metals or other  
environmental sensitive substances. To properly dispose of disused components, such as a printed circuit  
board or drive, use the methods described above for collecting and recycling a disused computer or monitor.  
Disposing of disused lithium batteries from Lenovo computers  
A button-shaped lithium battery is installed on the system board of your Lenovo computer to provide power  
to the computer clock while the computer is off or disconnected from the main power source. If you want to  
replace it with a new one, contact your place of purchase or ask for a repair service provided by Lenovo. If  
you have replaced it by yourself and want to dispose of the disused lithium battery, insulate it with vinyl tape,  
contact your place of purchase, and follow their instructions. If you use a Lenovo computer at home and  
need to dispose of a lithium battery, you must comply with local ordinances and regulations.  
Recycling information for Brazil  
Declarações de Reciclagem no Brasil  
Descarte de um Produto Lenovo Fora de Uso  
Equipamentos elétricos e eletrônicos não devem ser descartados em lixo comum, mas enviados à pontos de  
coleta, autorizados pelo fabricante do produto para que sejam encaminhados e processados por empresas  
especializadas no manuseio de resíduos industriais, devidamente certificadas pelos orgãos ambientais, de  
acordo com a legislação local.  
A Lenovo possui um canal específico para auxiliá-lo no descarte desses produtos. Caso você possua  
um produto Lenovo em situação de descarte, ligue para o nosso SAC ou encaminhe um e-mail para:  
[email protected], informando o modelo, número de série e cidade, a fim de enviarmos as instruções  
para o correto descarte do seu produto Lenovo.  
Battery recycling information for Taiwan  
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Battery recycling information for the European Union  
Notice: This mark applies only to countries within the European Union (EU).  
Batteries or packaging for batteries are labeled in accordance with European Directive 2006/66/EC  
concerning batteries and accumulators and waste batteries and accumulators. The Directive determines the  
framework for the return and recycling of used batteries and accumulators as applicable throughout the  
European Union. This label is applied to various batteries to indicate that the battery is not to be thrown  
away, but rather reclaimed upon end of life per this Directive.  
In accordance with the European Directive 2006/66/EC, batteries and accumulators are labeled to indicate  
that they are to be collected separately and recycled at end of life. The label on the battery may also  
include a chemical symbol for the metal concerned in the battery (Pb for lead, Hg for mercury, and Cd for  
cadmium). Users of batteries and accumulators must not dispose of batteries and accumulators as unsorted  
municipal waste, but use the collection framework available to customers for the return, recycling, and  
treatment of batteries and accumulators. Customer participation is important to minimize any potential  
effects of batteries and accumulators on the environment and human health due to the potential presence of  
hazardous substances. For proper collection and treatment, go to:  
http://www.lenovo.com/lenovo/environment  
Appendix C. WEEE and recycling information 117  
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Appendix D. Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive  
(RoHS)  
China RoHS  
Turkish RoHS  
The Lenovo product meets the requirements of the Republic of Turkey Directive on the Restriction of the Use  
of Certain Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment (EEE).  
Ukraine RoHS  
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India RoHS  
RoHS compliant as per E-Waste (Management & Handling) Rules, 2011.  
120 ThinkCentre User Guide  
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Index  
A
bays 13  
specifications 13  
a rescue medium, creating and using 68  
accessing  
system board components and drives 30  
Administrator, password 74  
E
antivirus software  
7
environment, operating  
4
audio line-in connector  
audio line-out connector  
9
Ethernet  
Ethernet connector 10  
exiting, Setup Utility 77  
2
9
audio subsystem  
1
expansion  
3
external options, installing 27  
B
backup and recovery operations 66  
basic troubleshooting 85  
battery, replacing 39  
F
failure, recovering from POST/BIOS 80  
boot-block recovery 80  
features  
1
flashing the BIOS 79  
front  
connectors, controls, indicators  
front audio and USB assembly, replacing 56  
front bezel  
removing, reinstalling 28  
C
8
cables, connecting 64  
card reader, installing 34  
changing  
password 74  
startup device sequence 76  
cleaning an optical mouse 83  
CMOS, clearing 75  
components, internal 11  
computer cover  
G
getting  
help 105  
information 105  
service 105  
opening 28  
connector description  
connectors  
9
rear  
connectors, controls, indicators  
front  
considerations, passwords 74  
creating  
and using a rescue medium 68  
creating and using  
recovery media 65  
CRU  
9
H
hard disk drive, replacing 40  
heat sink and fan assembly  
replacing 45  
8
help  
and service 106  
getting 105  
Help and Support 105  
completing the installation 64  
customer support center 106  
I
important safety information  
information  
getting 105  
v
D
deleting a password 74  
device drivers 64  
important safety  
resources 105  
safety 105  
v
devices, handling static-sensitive 27  
diagnostics programs, using 106  
diagnostics, troubleshooting 85  
DisplayPort connector 10  
documentation, using 106  
drivers, device 64  
warranty 105  
Input/Output (I/O) features  
installing options  
memory module 31  
PCI card 32  
2
drives  
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integrated cable lock, security 24  
internal drives  
power-on self-test (POST) 79  
Power-On, Password 74  
1
internal speaker, replacing 59  
programs, updating system 79  
purchasing additional services 107  
K
R
keyboard connector 10  
keyboard, replacing 63  
rear connectors  
recovering  
9
from a POST/BIOS update failure 80  
software 65  
recovery  
boot-block 80  
operations, backup and 66  
problems, solving 70  
L
Lenovo Solution Center 102  
Lenovo ThinkVantage Toolbox 102  
Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools 105  
Lenovo Welcome 5, 105  
locating components 11  
recovery media, creating and using 65  
removing, reinstalling  
front bezel 28  
replacing  
battery 39  
hard disk drive 40  
M
media, creating and using recovery media 65  
memory module  
installing, replacing 31  
system board 31  
heat sink and fan assembly 45  
microprocessor 53  
Microphone connector 10  
microprocessor  
replacing 53  
mouse connector 10  
mouse, replacing 63  
power supply assembly 48  
Rescue and Recovery 65  
workspace, Rescue and Recovery 67  
Rescue and Recovery workspace 67  
resources, information 105  
N
S
safety  
notices 109  
v
safety information 105  
security  
enabling or disabling 75  
O
opening computer cover 28  
operations, backup and recovery 66  
optical drive, installing or replacing 43  
optical mouse  
features  
integrated cable lock 24  
selecting  
3
startup device 76  
temporary startup device 76  
serial port 10  
cleaning 83  
service  
and help 106  
customer support center 106  
getting 105  
P
parts replacement, completing 64  
password  
Administrator 74  
services  
considerations 74  
Power-On Password 74  
setting, changing, deleting 74  
passwords  
other 107  
purchasing additional 107  
setting  
password 74  
erasing 75  
settings  
lost or forgotten 75  
passwords, using 73  
PCI card 32  
installing, replacing 32  
physical specifications  
power  
changing 73  
viewing 73  
Setup Utility 73  
Setup Utility program, starting 73  
Setup Utility, exiting 77  
software  
4
features  
3
recovering 65  
power supply assembly  
replacing 48  
solving recovery problems 70  
starting the Setup Utility program 73  
122 ThinkCentre User Guide  
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startup device 76  
sequence, changing 76  
temporary, selecting 76  
static-sensitive devices, handling 27  
system  
management  
programs 79  
system board  
2
connectors 12  
locating parts 12  
locations 12  
memory module 31  
system board components and drives  
accessing 30  
system fan, replacing 57  
T
temporary startup device 76  
the BIOS, updating (flashing) 79–80  
trademarks 110  
troubleshooting, basic 85  
troubleshooting, diagnostics 85  
U
updating  
(flashing) the BIOS 79  
system programs 79  
updating (flashing) the BIOS 80  
USB connector 10  
using  
a rescue medium, creating and 68  
diagnostic programs 106  
documentation 106  
other services 107  
passwords 73  
Setup Utility 73  
V
VGA monitor connector 10  
video subsystem  
1
viewing and changing settings 73  
W
warranty information 105  
workspace, backup and recovery 67  
© Copyright Lenovo 2011, 2012  
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Part Number: 0B07098  
Printed in  
(1P) P/N: 0B07098  
*1P0B07098*  
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