ThinkCentre
User Guide
Machine Types: 0104, 0154, 7539, and 7548
ThinkCentre
User Guide
Machine Types: 0104, 0154, 7539, and 7548
Note: Before using this information and the product it supports, be sure to read and understand the
First Edition (November 2010)
© Copyright Lenovo 2010.
LENOVO products, data, computer software, and services have been developed exclusively at private expense and are
sold to governmental entities as commercial items as defined by 48 C.F.R. 2.101with limited and restricted rights to
use, reproduction and disclosure.
LIMITED AND RESTRICTED RIGHTS NOTICE: If products, data, computer software, or services are delivered pursuant
a General Services Administration “GSA” contract, use, reproduction, or disclosure is subject to restrictions set forth
in Contract No. GS-35F-05925.
Contents
Creating and using recovery media
49
49
50
50
50
51
51
52
52
52
53
53
Features .
1
3
4
Performing backup and recovery operations .
Specifications .
Creating and using a rescue medium .
Software provided with your Windows
operating system .
4
6
Using a rescue medium
6
Installing or reinstalling device drivers
your computer .
7
8
9
10
55
55
55
56
56
56
56
56
57
57
Using passwords.
Handling static-sensitive devices
13
13
13
14
15
Installing external options
Removing the computer cover.
Removing and reinstalling the front bezel
Enabling or disabling a device
Accessing the system board components and
drives
16
17
20
22
23
26
28
32
35
38
39
41
42
43
44
44
45
46
46
Installing or replacing a PCI card .
sequence .
Exiting the Setup Utility program
57
58
Replacing the microprocessor .
Replacing the power supply assembly
59
59
Replacing the card reader
Replacing the front fan assembly
Updating (flashing) the BIOS from a disc
Recovering from a POST and BIOS update
failure .
60
60
Obtaining device drivers .
Basic security features
Padlock
Diagnostic programs .
63
64
64
64
65
Cleaning an optical mouse .
CMOS) .
46
© Copyright Lenovo 2010
iii
Information resources .
67
67
67
68
68
68
68
68
Using other services
69
70
70
Online Books folder .
Access Help .
European conformance CE mark
72
72
72
Safety and warranty .
Help and service .
programs .
69
iv ThinkCentre User Guide
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 ThinkCentre Safety and Warranty Guide that you received with this product for
the latest safety information. Reading and understanding this safety information reduces the risk of
personal injury and or 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:
© Copyright Lenovo 2010
v
vi ThinkCentre User Guide
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.
This chapter contains the following topics:
•
•
•
“Software overview” on page 4: This section provides information about the software programs provided
with your computer.
•
“Locations” on page 6: This section provides information to help you locate your computer connectors,
components, parts on the system board, and internal drives.
Features
This section provides information about the computer features.
System information
The following information covers a variety of models. For information about your specific model, use the
Microprocessor
Your computer comes with one of the following microprocessors (internal cache size varies by model type):
• Intel® Core™ i3 microprocessor
• Intel Core i5 microprocessor
• Intel Core i7 microprocessor
• Intel Pentium® microprocessor
Memory module(s)
Your computer supports up to four double data rate 3 dual inline memory modules (DDR3 DIMMs).
Internal drives
• Card reader (available in some models)
• Optical drive (available in some models)
• Serial Advanced Technology Attachment (SATA) hard disk drive
Video subsystem
• Integrated graphics functioning through a Video Graphics Array (VGA) connector and a Digital Video
Interface (DVI) connector (not applicable on some models)
• 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
© Copyright Lenovo 2010
1
• Headphone connector and microphone connector on the front panel
• Audio line-in connector, audio line-out connector, and microphone connector on the rear panel
• Internal speaker (available in some models)
Connectivity
10/100/1000 Mbps integrated Ethernet controller
System management features
• Ability to store the power-on self-test (POST) hardware test results
• Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI)
• Automatic power-on startup
• Desktop Management Interface (DMI)
• Intel Trusted Execution Technology (Intel TXT)
• Preboot Execution Environment (PXE)
• System Management (SM) Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) and SM software
• Wake on LAN (WOL)
• Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI) (WMI is the infrastructure for management data and
operations on Windows operating systems.)
Input/Output (I/O) features
• 9-pin serial port (one standard and one optional)
• One DVI monitor connector
• One Ethernet connector
• One parallel port (available in some models)
• One Personal System/2 (PS/2) keyboard connector
• One PS/2 mouse connector
• One VGA monitor connector
• Six Universal Serial Bus (USB) 2.0 connectors (two on the front panel and four on the rear panel)
• 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 (headphone connector and microphone connector)
For more information, refer to “Locating connectors, controls, and indicators on the front of your computer”
Expansion
• One hard disk drive bay
• One optical drive bay
• One slim card reader drive bay
• One PCI Express x16 graphics card slot
• One PCI Express x1 card slot
• Two PCI card slots
2
ThinkCentre User Guide
Power supply
• 240-watt auto-sensing power supply
Security features
• A power-on password and an administrator password to deter unauthorized use of your computer
• Computrace
• Cover presence switch (also called intrusion switch) (available in some models)
• Enabling or disabling SATA devices
• Enabling or disabling the serial port
• Enabling or disabling USB connectors
• Keyboard with fingerprint reader (shipped with some models)
• Startup sequence control
• Startup without keyboard or mouse
• Support for the addition of an integrated cable lock (Kensington lock. See “Integrated cable lock” on
page 45 for more information.)
Preinstalled software programs
Your computer is preinstalled with some software programs to help you work more easily and securely. For
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®
Specifications
This section lists the physical specifications for your computer.
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.
Chapter 1. Product overview
3
Dimensions
Width: 99 mm (3.9 inches)
Height: 335 mm (13.19 inches)
Depth: 382 mm (15.04 inches)
Weight
Maximum configuration as shipped: 6.6 kg (14.55 lbs)
Environment
• Air temperature:
Operating: 10°C to 35°C (50°F to 95°F)
Non-operating: -40°C to 60°C (-40°F to 140°F)
Non-operating: -10°C to 60°C (14°F to 140°F) (without package)
• Humidity:
Operating: 20% to 80% (non-condensing)
Non-operating: 20% to 90% (non-condensing)
• Altitude:
Operating: -50 to 10 000 ft (-15.2 to 3 048 m)
Non-operating: -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
Voltage-selection switch setting: 115 V ac
– High range:
Minimum: 200 V ac
Maximum: 240 V ac
Input frequency range: 50 to 60 Hz
Voltage-selection switch setting: 230 V ac
Software overview
The computer comes with a preinstalled operating system and several software programs provided by
Lenovo.
Software provided with your Windows operating system
This section provides information about the software provided with your Windows operating system.
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 model type and preinstalled operating system.
4
ThinkCentre User Guide
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. For more information, see “Lenovo
Lenovo Welcome
The Lenovo Welcome program introduces some innovative built-in features of Lenovo to you and guides you
through some important setup tasks to help you make the most of your computer.
Product Recovery
The Product Recovery program enables you to restore the contents of the hard disk drive to the factory
default settings.
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 Rescue and Recovery program manually before enabling its features. To
install the 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.
Password Manager
The Password Manager program automatically captures and fills in authentication information for Windows
applications and Web sites.
Note: If the Password Vault icon in the Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools program is dimmed, it indicates that
you need to install the Password Manager program manually before enabling its features. To install the
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.
Power Manager
The Power Manager program provides convenient, flexible, and complete power management for your
ThinkCentre® computer. By using the Power Manager program, you can adjust your power settings to
achieve the best balance between system performance and power saving.
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).
Fingerprint Software
The integrated fingerprint reader provided on some keyboards works with the Fingerprint Software program
to enable you to enroll your fingerprint and associate it with your Windows password. As a result, fingerprint
authentication can replace your password and enable simple and secure user access. A fingerprint reader
keyboard is available with certain computers or can be purchased for computers that support this option.
Chapter 1. Product overview
5
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. For more information, see “Lenovo ThinkVantage Toolbox” on page 64.
Adobe Reader
The Adobe Reader program is a tool used to view, print, and search PDF documents.
See “Online Books folder” on page 67 for more information about accessing and viewing the publications.
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 computer with a free 30-day subscription. After 30 days,
you must renew the license to continue receiving the antivirus software updates.
For more information about how to use your antivirus software, refer to the help system of your antivirus
software.
Locations
This section provides information to help you locate your computer connectors, components, parts on
the system board, and internal drives.
Locating connectors, controls, and indicators on the front of your
computer
Figure 1 “Front connector, control, and indicator locations” on page 6 shows the locations of the connectors,
controls, and indicators on the front of your computer.
Figure 1. Front connector, control, and indicator locations
6
ThinkCentre User Guide
1 Optical drive eject/close button
2 Power switch
5 USB connector
6 Microphone connector
7 Headphone connector
8 USB connector
3 Hard disk drive activity indicator
4 Power indicator
Locating connectors and parts on the rear of your computer
Figure 2 “Rear connector and part locations” on page 7 shows the locations of the connectors and parts
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 and part locations
1 Power cord connector
2 PS/2 mouse connector
3 PS/2 keyboard connector
4 DVI monitor connector
5 VGA monitor connector
6 USB connectors (4)
7 Microphone connector
15 Serial port
8 Audio line-out connector
9 Audio line-in connector
10 PCI Express x16 graphics card slot
11 PCI Express x1 card slot
12 PCI card slots (2)
13 Parallel port (available in some models)
14 Ethernet connector
Chapter 1. Product overview
7
Connector
Description
Audio line-in 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.
Audio line-out connector
Used to send audio signals from the computer to external devices, such as
powered stereo speakers (speakers with built-in amplifiers), headphones,
multimedia keyboards, the audio line-in connector on a stereo system, or other
external recording devices.
DVI monitor connector
Ethernet connector
Used to attach a DVI monitor or other devices that use a DVI monitor 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
Parallel port
Used to attach a microphone to your computer when you want to record sound or
if you use speech-recognition software.
Use this port to attach a parallel printer or other devices that use a 25-pin parallel
port.
PS/2 keyboard connector
PS/2 mouse connector
Used to attach a keyboard that uses a PS/2 keyboard connector.
Used to attach a mouse, a trackball, or other pointing devices that use a PS/2
mouse connector.
Used to attach an external modem, a serial printer, or other devices that use a
9-pin serial port.
Serial port
USB connector
Used to attach a device that uses a USB connector, such as a USB keyboard,
a USB mouse, a USB scanner, or a USB printer. If the USB connectors on your
computer are not enough for you to connect all your 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.
Locating components
Figure 3 “Component locations” on page 9 shows the locations of the various components in your computer.
To remove the computer cover and gain access to the inside of the computer, see “Removing the computer
8
ThinkCentre User Guide
Figure 3. Component locations
1 Heat sink and fan assembly
2 Power supply assembly
6 Front bezel
7 Front fan assembly
8 Hard disk drive
3 Memory modules (2)
4 Optical drive (available in some models)
5 Front USB and audio assembly
9 PCI card (available in some models)
10 Heat sink fan duct
Locating parts on the system board
Figure 4 “System board part locations” on page 10 shows the locations of the parts on the system board.
Chapter 1. Product overview
9
Figure 4. System board part locations
1 4-pin power connector
11 Clear Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor
(CMOS) /Recovery jumper
2 Microprocessor
12 Cover presence switch connector (also called intrusion
switch connector)
3 Microprocessor fan connector
4 Memory slots (4)
13 Internal speaker connector
14 Front audio connector
15 PCI card slots (2)
5 Serial (COM 2) connector
6 24-pin power connector
7 Power fan connector
16 PCI Express x1 card slot
17 Battery
8 SATA connectors (4)
18 PCI Express x16 graphics card slot
19 System fan connector
9 Front panel connector
10 Front USB connectors (2)
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.
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 2 “Installing or replacing hardware” on page 13 for instructions on how to
install or replace internal drives for your computer.
10 ThinkCentre User Guide
12 ThinkCentre User Guide
Chapter 2. Installing or replacing hardware
This chapter provides instructions on how to install or replace hardware for your computer.
This chapter contains the following topics:
•
•
•
•
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 computer parts and components, take these precautions to avoid static-electricity damage:
• Limit your movement. Movement can cause static electricity to build up around you.
• Always carefully handle the parts and other computer components. Handle PCI cards, memory modules,
system boards, and microprocessors by the edges. Never touch 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 new part to a metal
expansion-slot cover or other unpainted metal surface on the computer for at least two seconds. This
reduces static electricity from the package and your body.
• Remove the new part from the static-protective package and directly install it in the computer without
placing it on any other surface. If it is hard for you to do this in your specific situation, place the
static-protective package of the new part on a smooth, level surface, and then place the new part on
the static-protective package.
• 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 by adding memory modules, PCI cards, or drives, and maintain your
computer by replacing the failing hardware.
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 install 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 you install an external option, see “Locating connectors, controls, and indicators on the front of your
© Copyright Lenovo 2010
13
identify the required connector. Then, use the instructions that come with the option to help you make the
connection and install software or device drivers that are required for the option.
Removing the computer cover
Attention:
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”
in the ThinkCentre Safety and Warranty Guide that came with your computer. To obtain a copy of the ThinkCentre
Safety and Warranty Guide, go to:
This section provides instructions on how to remove the computer cover.
CAUTION:
Turn off the computer and wait three to five minutes to let the computer cool before removing the
computer cover.
To remove the computer cover, do the following:
1. Remove all media from the drives. Then, turn off all attached devices and the computer.
2. Disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets.
3. Disconnect the power cord, Input/Output (I/O) cables, and all other cables that are connected to the
computer.
4. Remove any locking device that secures the computer cover, such as an integrated cable lock or a
5. Remove the two screws that secure the computer cover and slide the computer cover to the rear to
remove it.
Figure 6. Removing the computer cover
14 ThinkCentre User Guide
Removing and reinstalling the front bezel
Attention:
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”
in the ThinkCentre Safety and Warranty Guide that came with your computer. To obtain a copy of the ThinkCentre
Safety and Warranty Guide, go to:
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.
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. Carefully lay the front bezel aside without
disconnecting the power switch and light-emitting diode (LED) assembly cable.
Figure 7. Removing the front bezel
Chapter 2. Installing or replacing hardware 15
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 8. Reinstalling the front bezel
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”
in the ThinkCentre Safety and Warranty Guide that came with your computer. To obtain a copy of the ThinkCentre
Safety and Warranty Guide, go to:
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.
16 ThinkCentre User Guide
4. Pivot the drive bay assembly upward to access all the internal drives, cables, and other components.
Figure 9. Pivoting the drive bay assembly upward
5. To lower the drive bay assembly, press the drive bay assembly clip 1 inward and pivot the drive bay
assembly downward as shown.
Figure 10. Lowering the drive bay assembly
Installing or replacing a PCI card
Attention:
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”
in the ThinkCentre Safety and Warranty Guide that came with your computer. To obtain a copy of the ThinkCentre
Safety and Warranty Guide, go to:
Chapter 2. Installing or replacing hardware 17
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
To install or replace a PCI card, 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.
3. Do one of the following:
• If you are replacing a PCI card, remove the screw that secures the old PCI card and release the old
PCI card from the PCI card slot. Then, carefully remove the old PCI card from the chassis, as shown
Notes:
a. If there are any cables between the PCI card and the system board, note the cable routing and
then disconnect the cables.
b. If the PCI card is secured in place by a retaining latch 1 , press the retaining latch to release the
PCI card from the latch. Then, grasp the PCI card by the edges and carefully pull it out of the
PCI card slot. If necessary, alternate moving each side of the PCI card a small and equal amount
until it is completely removed from the slot.
c. You might need to remove the front bezel and pivot the drive bay assembly upward to avoid
interference with removing the PCI card. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on page
18 ThinkCentre User Guide
Figure 11. Removing the PCI card
• If you are installing a PCI card, remove the appropriate PCI card slot cover. See “Locating parts on
4. Remove the new PCI card from its static-protective package.
Chapter 2. Installing or replacing hardware 19
5. Install the new PCI card into the appropriate PCI card slot on the system board. Then, install the screw
to secure the new PCI card in place.
Figure 12. Installing the PCI card
6. If necessary, connect any cables between the PCI card and the system board. See “Locating parts on
What to do next:
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.
Installing or replacing a memory module
Attention:
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”
in the ThinkCentre Safety and Warranty Guide that came with your computer. To obtain a copy of the ThinkCentre
Safety and Warranty Guide, go to:
This section provides instructions on how to install or replace a memory module.
Your computer has four memory slots for installing or replacing DDR3 SDRAM DIMMs that provide up to a
maximum of 16 GB of system memory. When installing or replacing a memory module, use 1 GB, 2 GB or 4
GB DDR3 SDRAM DIMMs in any combination up to a maximum of 16 GB of system memory.
To install or replace a memory module, 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.
20 ThinkCentre User Guide
3. Lay the computer on its side for easier access to the system board.
5. Remove any parts and disconnect any cables that might prevent your access to the memory slots.
6. Do one of the following:
• If you are replacing a memory module, open the retaining clips and remove the old memory module
that is currently installed.
Figure 13. Removing the memory module
• 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 14. Opening the retaining clips of the memory slot
Chapter 2. Installing or replacing hardware 21
7. Position the new memory module over the memory slot. Make sure that the notch 1 on the new memory
module is aligned with the key 2 in the memory slot. Then, press the new memory module straight down
into the memory slot until the retaining clips close and the new memory module snaps into position.
Figure 15. Installing the memory module
8. Reinstall any parts and reconnect any cables that have been removed or disconnected.
What to do next:
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.
Replacing the battery
Attention:
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”
in the ThinkCentre Safety and Warranty Guide that came with your computer. To obtain a copy of the ThinkCentre
Safety and Warranty Guide, go to:
Your computer has a special type of memory that maintains the date, time, and configuration information for
built-in features. The 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.
Before performing the following procedure, be sure to read and understand the information about replacing
and disposing of the battery in the “Batteries” and “Lithium battery notice” sections of the ThinkCentre
Safety and Warranty Guide.
To replace the battery, 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.
on page 16.
22 ThinkCentre User Guide
5. Remove any parts and disconnect any cables that might prevent your access to the battery.
6. Remove the old battery.
Figure 16. Removing the old battery
7. Install the new battery.
Figure 17. Installing the new battery
8. Reinstall any parts and reconnect any cables that have been removed or disconnected.
10. Reinstall the computer cover and reconnect all external cables. See “Completing the parts replacement”
on page 43.
11. Turn on the computer and all attached devices.
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.
12. Use the Setup Utility program to set the date, time, passwords, and any other configuration information.
What to do next:
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.
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”
in the ThinkCentre Safety and Warranty Guide that came with your computer. To obtain a copy of the ThinkCentre
Safety and Warranty Guide, go to:
This section provides instructions on how to replace the heat sink and fan assembly.
CAUTION:
Chapter 2. Installing or replacing hardware 23
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.
4. Pivot the drive bay assembly upward. Remove the four screws that secure the heat sink fan duct and
then lift the heat sink fan duct up to remove it from the chassis.
Figure 18. Removing the heat sink fan duct
5. Disconnect the heat sink and fan assembly cable from the microprocessor fan connector on the system
24 ThinkCentre User Guide
6. 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 19. Screws that secure the heat sink and fan assembly
7. Lift the heat sink and fan assembly 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.
8. 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.
9. Follow this sequence to install the four screws to secure the new heat sink and fan assembly, as shown
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 .
10. Connect the new heat sink and fan assembly cable to the microprocessor fan connector on the system
Chapter 2. Installing or replacing hardware 25
11. Lower and position the heat sink fan duct on the top of the heat sink and fan assembly until the four
screw holes in the heat sink fan duct are aligned with those in the heat sink and fan assembly. Install
the four screws to secure the heat sink fan duct.
Figure 20. Installing the heat sink fan duct
What to do next:
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.
Replacing the microprocessor
Attention:
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”
in the ThinkCentre Safety and Warranty Guide that came with your computer. To obtain a copy of the ThinkCentre
Safety and Warranty Guide, go to:
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.
26 ThinkCentre User Guide
3. Remove the heat sink and fan assembly. See “Replacing the heat sink and fan assembly” on page 23.
Note: Place the heat sink and fan assembly on its side so that the thermal grease on the bottom of it
does not get in contact with anything.
4. Lift the small handle 1 and open the retainer 2 to access the microprocessor 3 .
Figure 21. Accessing the microprocessor
Notes:
a. Your microprocessor and socket might look different from the one illustrated.
b. Note the orientation of the microprocessor in the socket. You can either look for the small triangle 1
on one corner of the microprocessor or note the orientation of the notches 2 on 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.
Chapter 2. Installing or replacing hardware 27
Figure 22. Removing the microprocessor
6. Make sure that the small handle is in the raised position.
7. Remove the protective cover that protects the gold contacts of the new microprocessor.
8. 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.
9. Lower the new microprocessor straight down into the microprocessor socket on the system board.
10. Lower the small handle to secure the new microprocessor in the socket.
11. Reinstall the heat sink and fan assembly. See “Replacing the heat sink and fan assembly” on page 23.
12. Reinstall any parts and reconnect any cables that have been removed or disconnected.
What to do next:
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.
Replacing the power supply assembly
Attention:
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”
in the ThinkCentre Safety and Warranty Guide that came with your computer. To obtain a copy of the ThinkCentre
Safety and Warranty Guide, go to:
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.
28 ThinkCentre User Guide
DANGER
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.
4. Pivot the drive bay assembly upward, remove the four screws that secure the heat sink fan duct, and
then lift the heat sink fan duct out of the chassis.
Chapter 2. Installing or replacing hardware 29
Figure 23. Removing the heat sink fan duct
5. Disconnect the power supply assembly cables from all drives and from the 24-pin power connector and
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.
6. 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 24. Removing the power supply assembly
7. Make sure that the new power supply assembly is the correct replacement. Some power supply
assemblies automatically sense the voltage or accept universal input, some power supply assemblies
are voltage specific, and some power supply assemblies have a voltage-selection switch. If your power
supply assembly has a voltage-selection switch, make sure that you set the voltage-selection switch
to match the voltage available at your electrical outlet. If necessary, use a ballpoint pen to slide the
voltage-selection switch to the correct position.
• If the voltage supply range in your local country or region is 100–127 V ac, set the voltage-selection
switch to 115 V.
• If the voltage supply range in your local country or region is 200–240 V ac, set the voltage-selection
switch to 230 V.
30 ThinkCentre User Guide
8. 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 25. Installing the power supply assembly
9. Connect the new power supply assembly cables to all drives and the system board. See “Locating
Chapter 2. Installing or replacing hardware 31
10. Lower and position the heat sink fan duct on the top of the heat sink and fan assembly until the four
screw holes in the heat sink fan duct are aligned with the corresponding holes in the heat sink and fan
assembly. Then, install the four screws to secure the heat sink fan duct in place.
Figure 26. Installing the heat sink fan duct
What to do next:
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.
Replacing the optical drive
Attention:
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”
in the ThinkCentre Safety and Warranty Guide that came with your computer. To obtain a copy of the ThinkCentre
Safety and Warranty Guide, go to:
This section provides instructions on how to replace the optical drive.
To replace the optical drive, 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.
on page 16.
32 ThinkCentre User Guide
5. Disconnect the signal cable and the power cable from the optical drive.
6. Hold the optical drive and remove the two screws that secure the optical drive.
Figure 27. Removing the optical drive screws
7. Press the drive bay assembly clip 1 inward and pivot the drive bay assembly downward as shown.
Figure 28. Lowering the drive bay assembly
Chapter 2. Installing or replacing hardware 33
8. Slide the optical drive out of the front of the computer.
Figure 29. Removing the optical drive
9. Slide the new optical drive into the optical drive bay from the front of the computer.
Figure 30. Installing a new optical drive
34 ThinkCentre User Guide
10. Hold the new optical drive and pivot the drive bay assembly upward. Align the screw holes in the new
optical drive with the corresponding holes in the drive bay. Then, install the two screws to secure
the new optical drive in place.
Figure 31. Installing the optical drive
11. Connect one end of the signal cable to the rear of the new optical drive and the other end to an available
locate an available five-wire power connector and connect it to the rear of the new optical drive.
Figure 32. Connecting a SATA optical drive
What to do next:
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.
Replacing the hard disk drive
Attention:
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”
in the ThinkCentre Safety and Warranty Guide that came with your computer. To obtain a copy of the ThinkCentre
Safety and Warranty Guide, go to:
Chapter 2. Installing or replacing hardware 35
This section provides instructions on how to replace the hard disk drive.
To replace the hard disk drive, 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.
4. Note the location of the four screws 1 that secure the hard disk drive. Then, pivot the drive bay
assembly upward.
Figure 33. Pivoting the drive bay assembly
36 ThinkCentre User Guide
5. Hold the hard disk drive and remove the four screws that secure the hard disk drive. Then, remove the
hard disk drive from the drive bay assembly and disconnect the signal cable and the power cable from
the rear of the hard disk drive to completely remove it from the chassis.
Figure 34. Removing the hard disk drive
6. Connect one end of the signal cable to the rear of the new hard disk drive and the other end to an
Then, locate an available five-wire power connector and connect it to the rear of the new hard disk drive.
Figure 35. Connecting a SATA hard disk drive
Chapter 2. Installing or replacing hardware 37
7. Position the new hard disk drive into the hard disk drive bay and align the screw holes in the new hard
disk drive with the corresponding holes in the drive bay. Then, install the four screws to secure the
new hard disk drive in place.
Figure 36. Installing the hard disk drive
What to do next:
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.
Replacing the card reader
Attention:
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”
in the ThinkCentre Safety and Warranty Guide that came with your computer. To obtain a copy of the ThinkCentre
Safety and Warranty Guide, go to:
This section provides instructions on how to replace the card reader.
Note: The card reader is available only in some models.
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.
4. Pivot the drive bay assembly upward to gain access to all the internal cables. See “Accessing the
38 ThinkCentre User Guide
5. Disconnect the card reader cable from the USB connector on the system board. See “Locating parts on
6. Release the card reader cable from the cable clip that secures the cable to the chassis.
8. Remove the screw that secures the card reader. Then, remove the card reader from the chassis.
Figure 37. Removing the card reader
9. Position the new card reader to the chassis so that the screw hole in the new card reader is aligned with
the corresponding hole in the chassis.
10. Install the screw to secure the new card reader in place.
11. Pivot the drive bay assembly upward. Then, connect the new card reader cable to the USB connector
12. Properly route the cable of the new card reader, and then secure the cable with the cable clip on
the chassis.
What to do next:
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.
Replacing the front fan assembly
Attention:
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”
in the ThinkCentre Safety and Warranty Guide that came with your computer. To obtain a copy of the ThinkCentre
Safety and Warranty Guide, go to:
This section provides instructions on how to replace the front fan assembly.
To replace the front fan assembly, do the following:
Chapter 2. Installing or replacing hardware 39
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.
7. Note the cable routing and disconnect the front fan assembly cable from the system fan connector on
8. The front fan assembly is attached to the chassis by four rubber mounts. Remove the front fan assembly
by cutting the rubber mounts and lifting the front fan assembly out of the chassis.
Note: The new front fan assembly will have four new rubber mounts attached.
Figure 38. Removing the front fan assembly
40 ThinkCentre User Guide
9. Install the new front fan assembly by aligning the new rubber mounts that came with the new front fan
assembly 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 front fan
assembly is secured in place.
Figure 39. Installing the front fan assembly
10. Connect the new front fan assembly cable to the system fan connector on the system board. See
What to do next:
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.
Replacing the keyboard
Attention:
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”
in the ThinkCentre Safety and Warranty Guide that came with your computer. To obtain a copy of the ThinkCentre
Safety and Warranty Guide, go to:
This section provides instructions on how to replace the keyboard.
Chapter 2. Installing or replacing hardware 41
To replace the keyboard, do the following:
1. Remove all media from the drives. Then, turn off all attached devices and the computer.
2. Disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets.
3. Disconnect the old keyboard cable from the computer.
4. Connect a new keyboard to the appropriate connector on the computer. Your keyboard might be
connected to a PS/2 keyboard connector 1 or a USB connector 2 . Depending on where you want
to connect your keyboard, see “Locating connectors, controls, and indicators on the front of your
Figure 40. Keyboard connectors
What to do next:
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.
Replacing the mouse
Attention:
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”
in the ThinkCentre Safety and Warranty Guide that came with your computer. To obtain a copy of the ThinkCentre
Safety and Warranty Guide, go to:
This section provides instructions on how to replace the mouse.
To replace the mouse, do the following:
1. Remove all media from the drives. Then, turn off all attached devices and the computer.
2. Disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets.
3. Disconnect the old mouse cable from the computer.
42 ThinkCentre User Guide
4. Connect a new mouse to the appropriate connector on the computer. Your mouse might be connected
to a PS/2 mouse connector 1 or a USB connector 2 . Depending on where you want to connect your
mouse, see “Locating connectors, controls, and indicators on the front of your computer” on page 6 or
Figure 41. Mouse connectors
What to do next:
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.
Completing the parts replacement
After completing the installation or replacement for all parts, you need to reinstall the computer cover
and reconnect cables.
To reinstall 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
components in your computer.
2. Make sure that all the internal cables are routed properly to avoid interference with lowering the drive bay
assembly and closing the computer cover. Keep the cables clear of the hinges and sides of the chassis.
4. If you have removed the front bezel, reinstall it. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on
page 15.
Chapter 2. Installing or replacing hardware 43
5. Position the computer cover on the chassis so that the rail guides on the computer cover engage the
rails on the chassis. Then, slide the computer cover to the front of the computer until it snaps into
position and is closed. Then, install the two screws to secure the computer cover.
Figure 42. Reinstalling the computer cover
7. Reconnect the power cord and all other external cables to the computer. For connector locations, see
“Locating connectors, controls, and indicators on the front of your computer” on page 6 and “Locating
8. Depending on the parts you installed or replaced, you might need to confirm the updated information in
Note: In most areas of the world, Lenovo requires the return of the defective Customer Replaceable Units
(CRUs). Information about this will come with the new CRUs or will come a few days after you receive the
new CRUs.
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.
Basic security features
There are several security options available to help you prevent hardware theft and unauthorized access to
your computer. In addition to physical locks, you can also prevent unauthorized use of your computer by a
software lock that locks the keyboard until a correct password is typed in.
44 ThinkCentre User Guide
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 a security slot at the
rear of your computer and is operated with a key. The cable lock also locks the computer cover. See Figure
43 “Installing an integrated cable lock” on page 45. This is the same type of lock used with many notebook
computers. You can order an integrated cable lock from Lenovo by searching for Kensington at:
Note: Make sure that the integrated cable lock you installed does not interfere with other computer cables.
Figure 43. Installing an integrated cable lock
Chapter 2. Installing or replacing hardware 45
Padlock
Your computer is equipped with a padlock loop so that the computer cover cannot be removed when
a padlock is installed.
Figure 44. Installing a padlock
Password protection
To deter unauthorized use of your computer, you can use the Setup Utility program to set a password. When
you turn on your computer, you are prompted to type the password. The computer cannot be used until
a valid password is typed in. Refer to Chapter 4 “Using the Setup Utility program” on page 55 for more
information.
Erasing a lost or forgotten password (clearing CMOS)
This section provides instructions on how to erase a lost or forgotten password, 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.
4. Remove any parts and disconnect any cables that might prevent your access to the Clear CMOS
/Recovery jumper.
46 ThinkCentre User Guide
5. Move the jumper from the standard position (pin 1 and pin 2) to the maintenance position (pin 2 and
pin 3).
6. Reinstall any parts and reconnect any cables that have been removed or disconnected.
7. Reinstall the computer cover and reconnect the power cords for the computer and monitor. See
8. 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.
9. Repeat step 1 through step 4.
10. Move the Clear CMOS /Recovery jumper back to the standard position (pin 1 and pin 2).
11. Reinstall any parts and reconnect any cables that have been removed or disconnected.
12. Reinstall the computer cover and reconnect all cables. See “Completing the parts replacement” on
page 43.
13. Turn on the computer. Your password has been erased and you can use the Setup Utility program to set
Chapter 2. Installing or replacing hardware 47
48 ThinkCentre User Guide
Chapter 3. Recovery information
This chapter provides information about the recovery solutions provided by Lenovo.
This chapter contains the following topics:
•
•
•
•
•
•
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 your operating
system.
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 settings. 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 on the Windows 7 operating system.
Note: On the Windows 7 operating system, you can create recovery media using discs or external USB
storage devices.
© Copyright Lenovo 2010
49
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.
On the Windows 7 operating system, you can use recovery media to restore the computer to the factory
default settings only. You can use recovery media to put the computer in an operational state after all
other methods of recovery have failed.
Attention: When you use recovery media to restore the computer to the factory default settings, all the files
currently on the hard disk drive will be deleted and replaced by the factory default settings.
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 Startup Device
Menu 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.
Notes:
1. After restoring your computer to the factory default settings, you might have to reinstall device drivers
2. Some computers come with Microsoft Office or Microsoft Works preinstalled. If you need to recover
or reinstall your Microsoft Office or Microsoft Works applications, you must use the Microsoft Office
CD or Microsoft Works CD. These discs are provided only with computers preinstalled with Microsoft
Office or Microsoft Works.
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 on the hard disk drive, you can restore the complete contents of the
hard disk drive, restore only the selected files, or restore only the Windows operating system and applications.
Performing a backup operation
This section provides instructions on how to perform a backup operation using the Rescue and Recovery
program on the Windows 7 operating system.
To perform a backup operation using the Rescue and Recovery program on the Windows 7 operating
system, do the following:
50 ThinkCentre User Guide
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 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 on the Windows 7 operating system.
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
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 settings The Rescue and Recovery workspace enables
you to restore the complete contents of your hard disk drive to the factory default settings. If you have
multiple partitions on your hard disk drive, you have the option to restore the factory default settings to 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 factory default settings 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.
Chapter 3. Recovery information 51
2. Repeatedly press and release the F11 key when turning on the computer. When you hear beeps or
see a logo screen, release the F11 key.
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.
Note: If the Rescue and Recovery workspace fails to open, see “Solving recovery problems” on page 53.
4. Do one of the following:
• To rescue files from your hard disk drive or from a backup, 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 Restore your system and follow the instructions on the screen.
For more information about the features of the Rescue and Recovery workspace, click Help.
Notes:
1. After restoring your hard disk drive to the factory default settings, you might have to reinstall device
2. Some computers come with Microsoft Office or Microsoft Works preinstalled. If you need to recover
or reinstall your Microsoft Office or Microsoft Works applications, you must use the Microsoft Office
CD or Microsoft Works CD. These discs are provided only with computers preinstalled with Microsoft
Office or Microsoft Works.
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 on the Windows 7 operating system.
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.
52 ThinkCentre User Guide
2. Repeatedly press and release the F12 key when turning on the computer. When the Startup Device
Menu opens, release the F12 key.
3. On the Startup Device Menu, 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 Startup Device
Menu opens, release the F12 key.
3. On the Startup Device Menu, 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.
Installing or reinstalling device drivers
Before installing or reinstalling device drivers, make sure that you have a preinstalled operating system and
the documentation and software media for the device.
Device drivers for factory-installed devices are located on the computer hard disk drive (usually drive C:)
in the SWTOOLS\DRIVERS subdirectory. The latest device drivers for factory-installed devices are also
available at http://www.lenovo.com/support. Other device drivers are on the software media that come
with individual devices.
To install or reinstall the device driver for a factory-installed device, do the following:
1. Turn on the computer.
2. Use Windows Explorer or My Computer to display the directory structure of your hard disk drive.
3. Go to the C:\SWTOOLS directory.
4. 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.
5. Open the appropriate device subfolder.
6. 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.
Solving recovery problems
If you are unable to access the Rescue and Recovery workspace or the Windows environment, do one
of the following:
Chapter 3. Recovery information 53
• Use recovery media if all other methods of recovery have failed and you need to restore the hard disk
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 57 for detailed
information about temporarily or permanently changing the startup device sequence. For more information
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.
54 ThinkCentre User Guide
Chapter 4. Using the Setup Utility program
You can use the Setup Utility program 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.
This chapter provides information about the following topics to help you use the Setup Utility program:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Starting the Setup Utility program
This section provides instructions on how to start 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. The Setup Utility program opens.
Note: If a password has been set, the Setup Utility program menu will not be displayed until you type
Viewing or changing settings
The Setup Utility program menu lists various items about the system configuration settings. To view or
change the settings, start the Setup Utility program. See “Starting the Setup Utility program” on page
55. Then, follow the instructions on the screen.
When working with the Setup Utility program, you must use the keyboard. 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 a password to prevent unauthorized access to your
computer and data. The following options are available to help you set a power-on password or an
administrator password:
• Set Power-On Password
• Set Administrator Password
You do not have to set a password to use your computer. However, using a password improves computing
security. If you decide to set a password, read the following sections.
© Copyright Lenovo 2010
55
Password considerations
A password can be any combination of up to 16 (1 to 16) 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:
Note: The Setup Utility program passwords are not case sensitive.
• Have at least eight characters in length
• Contain at least one alphabetic character and one numeric character
• 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
After you have set a power-on password using the Set Power-On Password option, a password prompt is
displayed each time you turn on the computer. You cannot use the computer until a valid password is typed
in. For more information about how to set a password, see “Setting, changing, or deleting a password”
on page 56.
Administrator password
The Set Administrator Password option enables you to set an administrator password, which deters
unauthorized users from changing configuration settings. If you are responsible for maintaining the settings
of several computers, you might want to set an administrator password. For more information about how to
After you have set an administrator password, a password prompt is displayed each time you try to access
the Setup Utility program. You cannot access the Setup Utility program until a valid password is typed in.
If you have set both a power-on password and an administrator password, you can type either password
to use your computer. However, to change any configuration settings, you must use your administrator
password.
Setting, changing, or deleting a password
This section provides instructions on how to set, change, or delete a password.
To set, change, or delete a password, do the following:
2. From the Setup Utility program main menu, select Security ➙ Set Power-On Password or Set
Administrator Password.
3. Follow the instructions on the screen to set, change, or delete a password.
Note: A password can be any combination of up to 16 (1 to 16) alphabetic and numeric characters.
Enabling or disabling a device
This section provides instructions on how to enable or disable user access to a device.
56 ThinkCentre User Guide
SATA Controller
USB Setup
When this option is set to Disabled, all devices connected to the SATA connectors
(such as the hard disk drive and the optical drive) are disabled and will not be
displayed in the system configuration.
Use this option to set up USB connectors.
To enable or disable a device, do the following:
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 ATA Drives Setup ➙ SATA Controller to enable or disable the devices connected to the
SATA connectors on the system board.
• Select USB Setup and follow the instructions on the screen to enable or disable the USB connector(s)
of your choice.
4. Select the desired settings and press Enter.
5. Press Esc to return to the Setup Utility program main menu. You might have to press Esc several times.
6. Press F10 to save the new settings and exit the Setup Utility program.
Notes:
a. If you do not want to save the new settings, select Exit ➙ Discard Changes and Exit.
b. If you want to return to the default settings, press F9 or select Exit ➙ Load Optimal Defaults.
Selecting a startup device
If your computer does not start up from a device (such as a hard disk drive or the disc in an optical drive) as
expected, do one of the following to select the desired startup device.
Selecting a temporary startup device
This section provides instructions on how to select a temporary startup device. You can use the instructions
in this section to start up from any startup device.
Note: Not all discs and hard disk drives are bootable.
To select a temporary startup device, 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 opens, release the F12 key.
3. Select the desired startup device on the Startup Device Menu and press Enter.
Note: Selecting a startup device on the Startup Device Menu does not permanently change the startup
device sequence.
Viewing or changing the startup device sequence
This section provides instructions on how to view or permanently change the configured startup device
sequence.
To view or permanently change the configured startup device sequence, do the following:
Chapter 4. Using the Setup Utility program 57
2. Select Startup ➙ Primary Boot Sequence. Read the information displayed on the right side of the
screen.
3. Select the first boot device, second boot device, and so on.
4. Press Esc to return to the Startup menu. Then, select the devices for the Automatic Boot Sequence
and Error Boot Sequence.
5. Press Esc to return to the Setup Utility program main menu. You might have to press Esc several times.
6. Press F10 to save the new settings and exit the Setup Utility program.
Notes:
a. If you do not want to save the new settings, select Exit ➙ Discard Changes and Exit.
b. If you want to return to the default settings, press F9 or select Exit ➙ Load Optimal Defaults.
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. Then, you can do one of the following:
• If you want to save the new settings and exit the Setup Utility program, press F10. Otherwise, your
changes will not be saved.
• If you do not want to save the new settings, select Exit ➙ Discard Changes and Exit.
• If you want to return to the default settings, press F9 or select Exit ➙ Load Optimal Defaults.
58 ThinkCentre User Guide
Chapter 5. Updating system programs
This chapter provides information about updating the POST and BIOS, and how to recover from a POST
and BIOS update failure.
This chapter contains the following topics:
•
•
•
•
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 4
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:
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 opens, release the F12 key.
3. On the Startup Device Menu, 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.
© Copyright Lenovo 2010
59
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.
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:
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 and 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, which 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.
4. Remove any parts and disconnect any cables that might prevent your 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. Reinstall any parts and reconnect any cables that have been removed or disconnected.
7. Reinstall the computer cover and reconnect the power cords for the computer and monitor. See
8. Turn on the computer and then insert the POST and BIOS update (flash update) disc into the optical
drive. The recovery session begins. The recovery session will take two to three minutes. During this
time, you will hear a series of beeps.
9. After the recovery session is completed, there will be no video, the series of beeps will end, and the
system will automatically turn off.
10. Repeat step 1 through step 4.
11. Move the jumper back to the standard position (pin 1 and pin 2).
60 ThinkCentre User Guide
12. Reinstall any parts and reconnect any cables that have been removed or disconnected.
13. Reinstall the computer cover and reconnect power cords and all other external cables. See “Completing
14. Turn on the computer and remove the disc from the optical drive.
Chapter 5. Updating system programs 61
62 ThinkCentre User Guide
Chapter 6. Troubleshooting and diagnostic programs
This chapter provides information about some basic troubleshooting and diagnostic programs. If your
computer problem is not described in this chapter, see Chapter 7 “Getting information, help, and service” on
page 67 for additional troubleshooting resources.
This chapter contains the following topics:
•
•
•
Basic troubleshooting
The following table provides some basic information to help you troubleshoot your computer problems.
Note: If you cannot solve the problem after doing the basic troubleshooting, have the computer serviced.
Refer to the ThinkCentre Safety and Warranty Guide that came with your computer for the safety and
warranty information and the list of service and support telephone numbers. You can also get the latest
service and support telephone numbers and a PDF version of the ThinkCentre Safety and Warranty Guide
from the Lenovo Support Web site at:
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.
• 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. If your computer has a PCI
graphics card installed, be sure to use the monitor connector on the graphics
card rather than the integrated one on the system board.
• 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.
The keyboard does not work.
Verify that:
• The computer is turned on.
• The keyboard is correctly connected to an appropriate keyboard connector (the
PS/2 keyboard connector or one of the USB connectors) on the computer.
• No keys are stuck.
© Copyright Lenovo 2010
63
Symptom
Action
The mouse does not work.
Verify that:
• The computer is turned on.
• The mouse is correctly connected to an appropriate mouse connector (the PS/2
mouse connector or one of the USB connectors) on the computer.
The operating system does not
start.
Verify that you list the device where the operating system resides in the startup
device sequence. Usually, the operating system is on the hard disk drive. For more
The computer beeps multiple
times before the operating
system starts.
Verify that no keys are stuck.
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 system. You
can use the preinstalled Lenovo ThinkVantage Toolbox program to diagnose computer problems, if your
computer is running the Windows operating system.
Notes:
1. You can also download the PC-Doctor for DOS diagnostic program from http://www.lenovo.com/support.
2. 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 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.
For additional information about running the Lenovo ThinkVantage Toolbox program, 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
Windows operating system. Use the PC-Doctor for DOS diagnostic program if you are unable to start the
Windows operating system. 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.
64 ThinkCentre User Guide
To create a diagnostic disc, do the following:
1. Download a self-starting bootable disc image (known as an ISO image) of the diagnostic program from:
2. Use any disc burning software to create a diagnostic disc with the ISO image.
Running the diagnostic program from the diagnostic disc
This section provides instructions on how to run the diagnostic program from the diagnostic disc that
you created.
To run the diagnostic program from the diagnostic disc that you created, do the following:
1. Make sure your computer is turned off.
2. Repeatedly press and release the F12 key when turning on the computer. When the Startup Device
Menu opens, release the F12 key.
3. Insert the diagnostic disc into the optical drive.
4. Select the optical drive with the diagnostic disc as the startup device and press Enter. The diagnostic
program opens.
5. Follow the instructions on the screen to run the desired diagnostic test. For additional help, press
the F1 key.
6. Remove the diagnostic disc from the optical drive after completing the diagnostic test.
Cleaning an optical mouse
This section provides instructions on how to clean an optical mouse.
An optical mouse uses a light-emitting diode 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.
Chapter 6. Troubleshooting and diagnostic programs 65
66 ThinkCentre User Guide
Chapter 7. Getting information, help, and service
This chapter provides information about help, service, and technical assistance for Lenovo products.
This chapter contains the following topics:
•
•
Information resources
You can use the information in this section to access useful resources relating to your computing needs.
Online Books folder
The Online Books folder preinstalled on your computer contains the ThinkCentre User Guide, which provides
information about your computer to help you set up, use, and maintain your computer. It requires no
Internet access to view the publication.
To view the publication, click Start ➙ All Programs ➙ Online Books ➙ Online Books, then double-click
the publication for your computer. The publication is also available on the Lenovo Support Web site at:
Notes:
1. The publication is in PDF version. To view the publication, you need to have the Adobe Reader program
preinstalled on your computer. If the Adobe Reader program has not been installed on your computer, a
message will be displayed when you attempt to view the PDF file and you will be guided through
the Adobe Reader installation.
2. The publication is available in other languages on the Lenovo Support Web site at:
3. If you want to install a different language version of the Adobe Reader program rather than the version
preinstalled on your computer, download the desired language version from the Adobe Web site at:
Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools
The Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools program helps you work more easily and securely by providing easy access
to various technologies, such as:
• Lenovo ThinkVantage Toolbox
• Password Manager
• Power Manager
• Product Recovery
• Rescue and Recovery
• System Update
To access the Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools program, click Start ➙ All Programs ➙ Lenovo ThinkVantage
Tools.
© Copyright Lenovo 2010
67
Lenovo Welcome
The Lenovo Welcome program introduces some innovative built-in features of Lenovo to you and guides you
through some important setup tasks to help you make the most of your computer.
Access Help
The Access Help information system provides information about getting started, doing basic tasks,
customizing settings for your personal preference, protecting data, expanding and upgrading, and
troubleshooting.
To open the Access Help information system on the Windows 7 operating system, click Start ➙ Help
and Support ➙ Lenovo Access Help.
After you have opened the Access Help information system, use the left panel to make a selection from the
Contents tab or the Index tab, or use the Search tab to find a particular word or phrase.
Safety and warranty
The ThinkCentre Safety and Warranty Guide that came with your computer contains information about
safety, warranty, service and support phone numbers, CRUs, and other notices and information resources.
You can also get the latest service and support telephone numbers and a PDF version of the ThinkCentre
Safety and Warranty Guide from the Lenovo Support Web site at:
Before using the information in this manual and the product it supports, be sure to read and understand the
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, software 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.
Help and service
This section provides information about obtaining help and service.
68 ThinkCentre User Guide
Using the documentation and diagnostic programs
If you experience problems with your computer, see Chapter 6 “Troubleshooting and diagnostic programs”
on page 63. For information about additional resources to help you troubleshoot your computer problems,
If you suspect a software problem, see the documentation that came with the operating system or software
program, including readme files and online help.
Most computers come with a set of diagnostic programs that you can use to help you identify hardware
problems. For instructions on how to use the diagnostic programs on your computer, see “Diagnostic
You can get the latest technical information and download device drivers and updates from the Lenovo
Support Web site at:
Calling for service
During the warranty period, you can get help and information from the Lenovo Customer Support Center by
telephone.
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 solve 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.
The following 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 the BIOS as part of an installation or upgrade
• Changes, modifications, or upgrades to device drivers
• Installation and maintenance of network operating systems (NOS)
• Installation and maintenance of application programs
Refer to the safety and warranty information that is provided with your computer for a complete explanation
of warranty terms. 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
Warranty Guide that is provided with your computer.
Note: The service and support 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 and 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
Chapter 7. Getting information, help, and service 69
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
authorized Service Providers.
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 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; upgraded or extended
hardware repair services; and custom installations. Service availability and service name might vary by
country or region. For more information about these services, go to the Lenovo Web site at:
70 ThinkCentre User Guide
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 2010
71
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.
European conformance CE mark
Trademarks
Lenovo, the Lenovo logo, Rescue and Recovery, ThinkCentre, and ThinkVantage are trademarks of Lenovo
in the United States, other countries, or both.
Microsoft and Windows are trademarks of the Microsoft group of companies.
Intel, Intel Core, and Pentium are trademarks of Intel Corporation in the United States, other countries, or
both.
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.
72 ThinkCentre User Guide
Index
A
internal 10
DVI monitor connector
8
accessing
E
environment, operating
4
antivirus software
audio line-in connector
audio line-out connector
6
Ethernet
Ethernet connector
expansion
2
8
8
8
audio subsystem
1
2
B
F
features
front
1
connectors, controls, indicators
front bezel
replacing 39
6
C
changing
CMOS, clearing 46
G
components, internal
computer cover
removing 14
8
getting
help 67
information 67
service 67
connectors
8
rear
connectors, controls, indicators
front
creating
7
H
6
replacing 23
creating and using
help
getting 67
CRU
I
D
v
information
installing 53
getting 67
reinstalling 53
important safety
safety 68
warranty 68
Input/Output (I/O) features
installing
v
2
drives
© Copyright Lenovo 2010
73
installing options
installing, replacing
slots 18
physical specifications
power supply
3
internal
features
3
drives 10
internal drives
power supply assembly
replacing 28
1
K
keyboard
PS/2 mouse connector
8
replacing 41
8
L
R
rear connectors
recovering
7
Lenovo Welcome
locating components
5
8
recovery
reinstalling
M
memory module 1, 20
microphone connector
8
replacing 26
mouse
replacing 42
1
removing
removing, reinstalling
replacing
N
notices 71
mouse 42
O
optical drive
replacing 32
P
S
safety
padlock 46
Parallel port
8
v
password
safety information 68
security
erasing 46
features 3, 44
padlock 46
selecting
74 ThinkCentre User Guide
serial port
service
and help 68
getting 67
V
8
VGA monitor connector
video subsystem
8
1
services
other 70
W
settings
warranty information 68
changing 55
viewing 55
software
recovering 49
software overview
4
system
management
system board
locating parts
2
9
location
9
accessing 16
T
the BIOS, updating (flashing) 59–60
trademarks 72
U
updating
USB connector
using
8
documentation 69
© Copyright Lenovo 2010
75
76 ThinkCentre User Guide
Part Number: 0A22638
Printed in USA
(1P) P/N: 0A22638
*0A22638*
|