Lenovo M53 Hmm User Manual Hardware Maintenance Think Centre Desktop (Think Centre) Type 10ER

2014-11-24

User Manual: Lenovo M53 Hmm Hardware Maintenance Manual - ThinkCentre M53 M53 Desktop (ThinkCentre) - Type 10ER 10ER

Open the PDF directly: View PDF .
Page Count: 184

Download
Open PDF In Browser	View PDF

ThinkCentre M53
Hardware Maintenance Manual

Machine Types: 10DB, 10DC, 10DD, 10DE, 10DV, 10DW, 10DX,
10DY, 10EC, and 10ED

Note: Before using this information and the product it supports, be sure to read and understand the Chapter
1 “Read this first: Important safety information” on page 1 and Appendix F “Notices” on page 169.

First Edition (September 2014)
© Copyright Lenovo 2014.
LIMITED AND RESTRICTED RIGHTS NOTICE: If data or software is 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
About this manual. . . . . . . . . . . . v
Chapter 1. Read this first: Important
safety information. . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Power cords and power adapters . . . .
General safety . . . . . . . . . . . .
Electrical safety . . . . . . . . . . .
Safety inspection guide . . . . . . . .
Handling electrostatic discharge-sensitive
devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Grounding requirements . . . . . . . .
Safety notices (multi-lingual translations) .

.
.
.
.

1
1
2
4

. . . .
. . . .
. . . .

4
5
5

Chapter 2. Product overview . . . . .

Locations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Locating connectors, controls, and indicators
on the front of your computer . . . . . . .
Locating connectors on the rear of your
computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Locating components . . . . . . . . . .
Locating major FRUs and CRUs . . . . . .
Locating parts on the system board . . . .
Locating the machine type and model label .
Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lenovo programs . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accessing Lenovo programs on the Windows
7 operating system . . . . . . . . . . .
Accessing Lenovo programs on the Windows
8.1 operating system . . . . . . . . . .
An introduction to Lenovo programs . . . .

Chapter 3. Using your computer . . .
Registering your computer . . . . . . . . .
Using keyboard shortcuts . . . . . . . . .
Using the wheel mouse . . . . . . . . . .
Managing power . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Advanced configuration and power interface
(ACPI) BIOS . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Automatic Power-on features . . . . . .
Setting the computer volume . . . . . . . .
Setting the volume from the desktop . . .
Setting the volume from Control Panel . .
Using a disc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Using the optical drive . . . . . . . . .
Handling and storing a disc . . . . . . .
Playing and removing a disc . . . . . .
Recording a disc . . . . . . . . . . .

Navigating among screens on the Windows 8.1
operating system. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accessing Control Panel on the Windows 8.1
operating system. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Frequently asked questions . . . . . . . . .

49
49

Chapter 4. You and your computer . .

Accessibility and comfort . . . . . . . .
Arranging your workspace . . . . . .
Comfort . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Glare and lighting . . . . . . . . . .
Air circulation . . . . . . . . . . .
Electrical outlets and cable lengths . . .
Accessibility information . . . . . . .
Moving your computer to another country or
region . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

.
.
.
.
.
.
.

51
51
51
52
52
52
52

. .

Chapter 5. Security . . . . . . . . . .

29
30
32
34
35
35
39
39

Attaching a Kensington-style cable lock.
Using passwords. . . . . . . . . .
BIOS passwords . . . . . . . .
Windows passwords . . . . . .
Using the cover presence switch . . .
Using the fingerprint reader. . . . . .
Using and understanding firewalls . . .
Protecting data against viruses . . . .

.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.

57
57
57
58
58
58
59
59

Chapter 6. Advanced configuration . .

Using the Setup Utility program . . . . . . . .
Starting the Setup Utility program . . . . .
Viewing and changing settings . . . . . .
Using BIOS passwords . . . . . . . . .
Enabling or disabling a device . . . . . . .
Selecting a startup device . . . . . . . .
Enabling ErP LPS compliance mode . . . .
Smart performance choices. . . . . . . .
ICE performance mode . . . . . . . . .
ICE thermal alert . . . . . . . . . . . .
Exiting the Setup Utility program . . . . . .
Updating or recovering the BIOS . . . . . . .
BIOS levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Using system programs . . . . . . . . .
Changing the BIOS settings before installing a
new operating system . . . . . . . . . .
Updating the BIOS from a disc . . . . . .
Updating the BIOS from your operating
system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Recovering from a BIOS update failure . . .

61
61
61
62
63
64
64
65
65
66
66
66
67
67

40
41

.
.
.
.

43
43
44
44

.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.

44
44
45
45
45
46
46
46
47
47

.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.

67
68
69
69

Chapter 7. Preventing problems . . .
Keeping your computer current . . . . . .
Getting the latest device drivers for your
computer . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Updating your operating system . . . .
Using the System Update program . . .
Cleaning and maintenance . . . . . . . .
Basics . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cleaning your computer . . . . . . .
Good maintenance practices . . . . .
Moving your computer . . . . . . . . .

. .

.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.

71
71
72
72
72
72
73
74

.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.

Chapter 8. Troubleshooting and
diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Basic troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . .
Troubleshooting procedure . . . . . . . . .
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Audio problems . . . . . . . . . . .
CD problems . . . . . . . . . . . .
DVD problems . . . . . . . . . . . .
Intermittent problems . . . . . . . . .
Hard disk drive problems . . . . . . . .
Problems with the keyboard or mouse . .
Monitor problems. . . . . . . . . . .
Networking problems . . . . . . . . .
I have connected an option to my computer,
but it does not work . . . . . . . . . .
Performance and lockup problems . . . .
The printer does not work . . . . . . .
Serial connector cannot be accessed . . .
Software problems . . . . . . . . . .
My USB connectors cannot be accessed .
Diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lenovo Solution Center . . . . . . . .
UEFI diagnostic program . . . . . . . .

.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.

75
76
76
77
77
78
79
79
80
81
82

.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.

84
84
85
85
85
86
86
86
87

Chapter 9. Service checkout and
symptom-to-FRU index . . . . . . . .

Service checkout. . . . . . . .
Problem determination tips . .
Symptom-to-FRU index . . . . .
Hard disk drive boot error . .
Power supply problems . . .
Beep symptoms . . . . . .
POST error codes. . . . . .
Miscellaneous error conditions
Undetermined problems . . .

.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.

89
89
90
90
91
91
91
92
94

Chapter 10. Recovery information . .

Recovery information for the Windows 7 operating
system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

Creating and using recovery media . . . . .
Performing backup and recovery operations .
Creating and using a rescue medium . . . .
Reinstalling programs and device drivers . .
Solving recovery problems . . . . . . . .
Recovery information for the Windows 8.1
operating system. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Refreshing your computer . . . . . . . .
Resetting your computer to the factory-default
settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Using the advanced startup options . . . .
Recovering your operating system if Windows
8.1 fails to start. . . . . . . . . . . . .

Chapter 11. Installing or replacing
hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Handling static-sensitive devices . . . . . . .
Installing or replacing hardware . . . . . . . .
Installing external options . . . . . . . .
Installing and removing the ac power adapter
bracket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing and removing the ac power
adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing and removing the vertical stand . .
Installing and removing the VESA mount
bracket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing or replacing the external optical
drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing or replacing the external hard disk
drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Removing the computer cover. . . . . . .
Replacing the microprocessor fan . . . . .
Replacing the heat sink . . . . . . . . .
Replacing the memory module . . . . . .
Installing or replacing the cover presence
switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Replacing the internal speaker. . . . . . .
Replacing the power button board . . . . .
Replacing the hard disk drive assembly . . .
Replacing the coin-cell battery . . . . . .
Installing or replacing the Wi-Fi card
module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing and removing the front Wi-Fi
antenna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing and removing the rear Wi-Fi
antenna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Replacing the system board . . . . . . .
Installing or replacing the keyboard or
mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Completing the parts replacement . . . . .

95
96
98
98
100
100
100
100
101
101

103
103
103
103
104
105
107
109
111
117
123
125
127
129
130
131
133
134
136
137
139
141
143
146
147

Chapter 12. Getting information, help,
and service . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151

Information resources . . . . . . . . . .
Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools . . . . . .
Help and Support. . . . . . . . . .
Safety and Warranty. . . . . . . . .
Lenovo Web site . . . . . . . . . .
Lenovo Support Web site. . . . . . .
Help and service . . . . . . . . . . . .
Using the documentation and diagnostic
program . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Calling for service. . . . . . . . . .
Using other services . . . . . . . .
Purchasing additional services . . . .

.
.
.
.
.
.
.

151
151
151
151
151
152
152

.
.
.
.

152
152
153
153

Appendix A. Regulatory
information . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Export classification notice . . . . . . .
Electronic emissions notices . . . . . .
Federal Communications Commission
Declaration of Conformity . . . . .
Eurasian compliance mark . . . . . . .
Brazil regulatory notice . . . . . . . .
Mexico regulatory notice . . . . . . . .
Additional regulatory information . . . .

155
155

.
.
.
.
.

155
157
157
157
157

.
.
.
.
.

Appendix B. WEEE and recycling
information . . . . . . . . . . . . .

155

. . .
. . .
.
.
.
.
.

Important WEEE information . . . . . . .
Recycling information for Japan . . . . . .
Recycling information for Brazil . . . . . .
Battery recycling information for Taiwan . . .
Battery recycling information for the European
Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

.
.
.
.

159
159
160
160

. .

160

Appendix C. Restriction of Hazardous
Substances Directive (RoHS) . . . . 163
European Union RoHS
China RoHS. . . . .
Turkish RoHS . . . .
Ukraine RoHS . . . .
India RoHS . . . . .

.
.
.
.
.

163
163
163
164
164

Appendix D. China Energy Label . .

165

Appendix E. ENERGY STAR model
information . . . . . . . . . . . . .

167

Appendix F. Notices . . . . . . . . .

169

Trademarks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

170

171

159

iii

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

About this manual
This manual provides service and reference information for ThinkCentre® computers listed on the front cover.
Use this manual along with the advanced diagnostic tests to troubleshoot problems.
Important: This manual is intended only for trained service technicians who are familiar with ThinkCentre
computers. Use this manual along with the advanced diagnostic tests to troubleshoot problems effectively.
Before servicing a ThinkCentre computer, be sure to read and understand Chapter 1 “Read this first:
Important safety information” on page 1.

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

Chapter 1. Read this first: Important safety information
This chapter contains the safety information that you must be familiar with.

Power cords and power adapters
Use only the power cords and power adapters supplied by the product manufacturer.
The power cords shall be safety approved. For Germany, it shall be H05VV-F, 3G, 0.75 mm2, or better. For
other countries, the suitable types shall be used accordingly.
Never wrap a power cord around a power adapter or other object. Doing so can stress the cord in ways that
can cause the cord to fray, crack, or crimp. This can present a safety hazard.
Always route power cords so that they will not be walked on, tripped over, or pinched by objects.
Protect power cord and power adapters from liquids. For instance, do not leave your power cord or power
adapter near sinks, tubs, toilets, or on floors that are cleaned with liquid cleansers. Liquids can cause a
short circuit, particularly if the power cord or power adapter has been stressed by misuse. Liquids also can
cause gradual corrosion of power cord terminals and/or the connector terminals on a power adapter,
which can eventually result in overheating.
Ensure that all power cord connectors are securely and completely plugged into receptacles.
Do not use any power adapter that shows corrosion at the ac input pins or shows signs of overheating (such
as deformed plastic) at the ac input or anywhere on the power adapter.
Do not use any power cords where the electrical contacts on either end show signs of corrosion or
overheating or where the power cord appears to have been damaged in any way.

General safety
Follow these rules to ensure general safety:
• Observe good housekeeping in the area of the machines during and after maintenance.
• When lifting any heavy object:
1. Ensure you can stand safely without slipping.
2. Distribute the weight of the object equally between your feet.
3. Use a slow lifting force. Never move suddenly or twist when you attempt to lift.
4. Lift by standing or by pushing up with your leg muscles; this action removes the strain from the
muscles in your back.
Attention:
Do not attempt to lift any objects that weigh more than 16 kg (35 lb) or objects that you think are
too heavy for you.
• Do not perform any action that causes hazards to the customer, or that makes the equipment unsafe.
• Before you start the machine, ensure that other service representatives and the customer's personnel are
not in a hazardous position.

• Place removed covers and other parts in a safe place, away from all personnel, while you are servicing
the machine.
• Keep your tool case away from walk areas so that other people will not trip over it.
• Do not wear loose clothing that can be trapped in the moving parts of a machine. Ensure that your sleeves
are fastened or rolled up above your elbows. If your hair is long, fasten it.
• Insert the ends of your necktie or scarf inside clothing or fasten it with a nonconductive clip, approximately
8 centimeters (3 inches) from the end.
• Do not wear jewelry, chains, metal-frame eyeglasses, or metal fasteners for your clothing.
Remember: Metal objects are good electrical conductors.
• Wear safety glasses when you are: hammering, drilling, soldering, cutting wire, attaching springs, using
solvents, or working in any other conditions that might be hazardous to your eyes.
• After service, reinstall all safety shields, guards, labels, and ground wires. Replace any safety device
that is worn or defective.
• Reinstall all covers correctly before returning the machine to the customer.
CAUTION:

Hazardous moving parts. Keep fingers and other body parts away.
CAUTION:
Before you open the computer cover, turn off the computer and wait several minutes until the
computer is cool.

Electrical safety

CAUTION:
Electrical current from power, telephone, and communication cables can be hazardous. To avoid
personal injury or equipment damage, disconnect the attached power cords, telecommunication
systems, networks, and modems before you open the computer covers, unless instructed otherwise
in the installation and configuration procedures.
Observe the following rules when working on electrical equipment.
Important: Use only approved tools and test equipment. Some hand tools have handles covered with a soft
material that does not insulate you when working with live electrical currents. Many customers have, near
their equipment, rubber floor mats that contain small conductive fibers to decrease electrostatic discharges.
Do not use this type of mat to protect yourself from electrical shock.

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

• Find the room emergency power-off (EPO) switch, disconnecting switch, or electrical outlet. If an electrical
accident occurs, you can then operate the switch or unplug the power cord quickly.
• Do not work alone under hazardous conditions or near equipment that has hazardous voltages.
• Disconnect all power before:
– Performing a mechanical inspection
– Working near power supplies
– Removing or installing Field Replaceable Units (FRUs)
• Before you start to work on the machine, unplug the power cord. If you cannot unplug it, power off the
wall box that supplies power to the machine and lock the wall box in the off position.
• If you need to work on a machine that has exposed electrical circuits, observe the following precautions:
– Ensure that another person, familiar with the power-off controls, is near you.
Remember: Another person must be there to switch off the power, if necessary.
– Use only one hand when working with powered-on electrical equipment; keep the other hand in your
pocket or behind your back.
Remember: There must be a complete circuit to cause electrical shock. By observing the above rule,
you may prevent a current from passing through your body.
– When using a tester, set the controls correctly and use the approved probe leads and accessories for
that tester.
– Stand on suitable rubber mats (obtained locally, if necessary) to insulate you from grounds such as
metal floor strips and machine frames.
Observe the special safety precautions when you work with very high voltages; these instructions are in
the safety sections of maintenance information. Use extreme care when measuring high voltages.
• Regularly inspect and maintain your electrical hand tools for safe operational condition.
• Do not use worn or broken tools and testers.
• Never assume that power has been disconnected from a circuit. First, check that it has been powered-off.
• Always look carefully for possible hazards in your work area. Examples of these hazards are moist floors,
nongrounded power extension cables, power surges, and missing safety grounds.
• Do not touch live electrical circuits with the reflective surface of a plastic dental mirror. The surface is
conductive; such touching can cause personal injury and machine damage.
• Do not service the following parts with the power on when they are removed from their normal operating
places in a machine:
– Power supply units
– Pumps
– Blowers and fans
– Motor generators
and similar units. (This practice ensures correct grounding of the units.)
• If an electrical accident occurs:
– Use caution; do not become a victim yourself.
– Switch off power.
– Send another person to get medical aid.

Chapter 1. Read this first: Important safety information

Safety inspection guide
The intent of this inspection guide is to assist you in identifying potentially unsafe conditions on these
products. Each machine, as it was designed and built, had required safety items installed to protect users
and service personnel from injury. This guide addresses only those items. However, good judgment should
be used to identify potential safety hazards due to attachment of features or options not covered by this
inspection guide.
If any unsafe conditions are present, you must determine how serious the apparent hazard could be and
whether you can continue without first correcting the problem.
Consider these conditions and the safety hazards they present:
• Electrical hazards, especially primary power (primary voltage on the frame can cause serious or fatal
electrical shock).
• Explosive hazards, such as a damaged CRT face or bulging capacitor
• Mechanical hazards, such as loose or missing hardware
The guide consists of a series of steps presented in a checklist. Begin the checks with the power off, and
the power cord disconnected.
Checklist:
1. Check exterior covers for damage (loose, broken, or sharp edges).
2. Power-off the computer. Disconnect the power cord.
3. Check the power cord for:
a. A third-wire ground connector in good condition. Use a meter to measure third-wire ground
continuity for 0.1 ohm or less between the external ground pin and frame ground.
b. The power cord should be the appropriate type as specified in the parts listings.
c. Insulation must not be frayed or worn.
4. Remove the cover.
5. Check for any obvious alterations. Use good judgment as to the safety of any alterations.
6. Check inside the unit for any obvious unsafe conditions, such as metal filings, contamination, water or
other liquids, or signs of fire or smoke damage.
7. Check for worn, frayed, or pinched cables.
8. Check that the power-supply cover fasteners (screws or rivets) have not been removed or tampered with.

Handling electrostatic discharge-sensitive devices
Any computer part containing transistors or integrated circuits (ICs) should be considered sensitive to
electrostatic discharge (ESD). ESD damage can occur when there is a difference in charge between objects.
To protect against ESD damage, equalize the charge between objects. Then, the machine, the part, the
work mat, and the person handling the part are all at the same charge.
Notes:
1. Use product-specific ESD procedures when they exceed the requirements noted here.
2. Make sure that the ESD protective devices you use have been certified (ISO 9000) as fully effective.
When handling ESD-sensitive parts:
• Keep the parts in protective packages until they are inserted into the product.
• Avoid contact with other people while handling the part.
4

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

• Wear a grounded wrist strap against your skin to eliminate static on your body.
• Prevent the part from touching your clothing. Most clothing is insulative and retains a charge even
when you are wearing a wrist strap.
• Use the black side of a grounded work mat to provide a static-free work surface. The mat is especially
useful when handling ESD-sensitive devices.
• Select a grounding system, such as those listed below, to provide protection that meets the specific
service requirement.
Note: The use of a grounding system is desirable but not required to protect against ESD damage.
– Attach the ESD ground clip to any frame ground, ground braid, or green-wire ground.
– Use an ESD common ground or reference point when working on a double-insulated or
battery-operated system. You can use coax or connector-outside shells on these systems.
– Use the round ground-prong of the ac plug on ac-operated computers.

Grounding requirements
Electrical grounding of the computer is required for operator safety and correct system function. Proper
grounding of the electrical outlet can be verified by a certified electrician.

Safety notices (multi-lingual translations)
The caution and danger safety notices in this section are provided in the following languages:
• English
• Arabic
• Brazilian/Portuguese
• Chinese (simplified)
• Chinese (traditional)
• French
• German
• Hebrew
• Italian
• Korean
• Spanish

DANGER
Electrical current from power, telephone and communication cables is hazardous.
To avoid a shock hazard:
• Do not connect or disconnect any cables or perform installation, maintenance, or reconfiguration
of this product during an electrical storm.
• Connect all power cords to a properly wired and grounded electrical outlet.
Chapter 1. Read this first: Important safety information

• Connect to properly wired outlets any equipment that will be attached to this product.
• When possible, use one hand only to connect or disconnect signal cables.
• Never turn on any equipment when there is evidence of fire, water, or structural damage.
• Disconnect the attached power cords, telecommunications systems, networks, and modems
before you open the device covers, unless instructed otherwise in the installation and configuration
procedures.
• Connect and disconnect cables as described in the following tables when installing, moving, or
opening covers on this product or attached devices.
To Connect

To Disconnect

1. Turn everything OFF.

2. First, attach all cables to devices.

2. First, remove power cords from outlet.

3. Attach signal cables to connectors.

3. Remove signal cables from connectors.

4. Attach power cords to outlet.

4. Remove all cables from devices.

5. Turn device ON.

CAUTION:
When replacing the lithium battery, use only Part Number 45C1566 or an equivalent type battery
recommended by the manufacturer. If your system has a module containing a lithium battery, replace
it only with the same module type made by the same manufacturer. The battery contains lithium and
can explode if not properly used, handled, or disposed of. Do not:
• Throw or immerse into water
• Heat to more than 100°C (212°F)
• Repair or disassemble
Dispose of the battery as required by local ordinances or regulations.

CAUTION:
When laser products (such as CD-ROMs, DVD-ROM drives, fiber optic devices, or transmitters) are
installed, note the following:
• Do not remove the covers. Removing the covers of the laser product could result in exposure to
hazardous laser radiation. There are no serviceable parts inside the device.
• Use of controls or adjustments or performance of procedures other than those specified herein
might result in hazardous radiation exposure.
DANGER
Some laser products contain an embedded Class 3A or Class 3B laser diode. Note the following:
Laser radiation when open. Do not stare into the beam, do not view directly with optical
instruments, and avoid direct exposure to the beam.

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

≥18 kg (37 lb)

≥32 kg (70.5 lb)

≥55 kg (121.2 lb)

CAUTION:
Use safe practices when lifting.

CAUTION:
The power control button on the device and the power switch on the power supply do not turn off
the electrical current supplied to the device. The device also might have more than one power
cord. To remove all electrical current from the device, ensure that all power cords are disconnected
from the power source.

2
1

Chapter 1. Read this first: Important safety information

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

≥18 kg (37 lb)

≥32 kg (70.5 lb)

≥55 kg (121.2 lb)

2
1

PERIGO
A corrente elétrica proveniente de cabos de alimentação, de telefone e de comunicações é perigosa.
Chapter 1. Read this first: Important safety information

Para evitar risco de choque elétrico:
• Não conecte nem desconecte nenhum cabo ou execute instalação, manutenção ou reconfiguração
deste produto durante uma tempestade com raios.
• Conecte todos os cabos de alimentação a tomadas elétricas corretamente instaladas e aterradas.
• Todo equipamento que for conectado a este produto deve ser conectado a tomadas corretamente
instaladas.
• Quando possível, utilize apenas uma das mãos para conectar ou desconectar cabos de sinal.
• Nunca ligue nenhum equipamento quando houver evidência de fogo, água ou danos estruturais.
• Antes de abrir tampas de dispositivos, desconecte cabos de alimentação, sistemas de telecomunicação,
redes e modems conectados, a menos que especificado de maneira diferente nos procedimentos de
instalação e configuração.
• Conecte e desconecte os cabos conforme descrito na tabela apresentada a seguir ao instalar, mover ou
abrir tampas deste produto ou de dispositivos conectados.
Para Conectar:

Para Desconectar:

1. DESLIGUE Tudo.

2. Primeiramente, conecte todos os cabos aos
dispositivos.

2. Primeiramente, remova os cabos de alimentação das
tomadas.

3. Conecte os cabos de sinal aos conectores.

3. Remova os cabos de sinal dos conectores.

4. Conecte os cabos de alimentação às tomadas.

4. Remova todos os cabos dos dispositivos.

5. LIGUE os dispositivos.

CUIDADO:
Ao substituir a bateria de lítio, utilize apenas uma bateria com Número de Peça 45C1566 ou um tipo
de bateria equivalente recomendado pelo Se o seu sistema possui um módulo com uma bateria de
lítio, substitua-o apenas por um módulo do mesmo tipo e do mesmo fabricante. A bateria contém lítio
e pode explodir se não for utilizada, manuseada ou descartada de maneira correta.
Não:
• Jogue ou coloque na água
• Aqueça a mais de 100°C (212°F)
• Conserte nem desmonte
Descarte a bateria conforme requerido pelas leis ou regulamentos locais.

PRECAUCIÓN:
Quando produtos a laser (como unidades de CD-ROMs, unidades de DVD-ROM, dispositivos de fibra ótica
ou transmissores) estiverem instalados, observe o seguinte:
• Não remova as tampas. A remoção das tampas de um produto a laser pode resultar em exposição
prejudicial à radiação de laser. Não existem peças que podem ser consertadas no interior do dispositivo.

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

• A utilização de controles ou ajustes ou a execução de procedimentos diferentes dos especificados aqui
pode resultar em exposição prejudicial à radiação.
PERIGO
Alguns produtos a laser contêm diodo de laser integrado da Classe 3A ou da Classe 3B. Observe o seguinte:
Radiação a laser quando aberto. Não olhe diretamente para o feixe a olho nu ou com instrumentos ópticos e
evite exposição direta ao feixe.

≥18 kg (37 lb)

≥32 kg (70.5 lb)

≥55 kg (121.2 lb)

CUIDADO:
Utilize procedimentos de segurança para levantar equipamentos.

CUIDADO:
O botão de controle de alimentação do dispositivo e o botão para ligar/desligar da fonte de alimentação
não desligam a corrente elétrica fornecida ao dispositivo. O dispositivo também pode ter mais de um cabo
de alimentação. Para remover toda a corrente elétrica do dispositivo, assegure que todos os cabos de
alimentação estejam desconectados da fonte de alimentação.

2
1

Chapter 1. Read this first: Important safety information

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

2
1

Chapter 1. Read this first: Important safety information

2
1

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

DANGER
Le courant électrique provenant de l'alimentation, du téléphone et des câbles de transmission peut présenter
un danger.
Pour éviter tout risque de choc électrique :
• Ne manipulez aucun câble et n'effectuez aucune opération d'installation, d'entretien ou de reconfiguration
de ce produit au cours d'un orage.
• Branchez tous les cordons d'alimentation sur un socle de prise de courant correctement câblé et mis à la
terre.
• Branchez sur des socles de prise de courant correctement câblés tout équipement connecté à ce produit.
• Lorsque cela est possible, n'utilisez qu'une seule main pour connecter ou déconnecter les câbles
d'interface.
• Ne mettez jamais un équipement sous tension en cas d'incendie ou d'inondation, ou en présence de
dommages matériels.
• Avant de retirer les carters de l'unité, mettez celle-ci hors tension et déconnectez ses cordons
d'alimentation, ainsi que les câbles qui la relient aux réseaux, aux systèmes de télécommunication et aux
modems (sauf instruction contraire mentionnée dans les procédures d'installation et de configuration).
• Lorsque vous installez, que vous déplacez, ou que vous manipulez le présent produit ou des périphériques
qui lui sont raccordés, reportez-vous aux instructions ci-dessous pour connecter et déconnecter les
différents cordons.
Connexion

Déconnexion

1. Mettez les unités HORS TENSION.

2. Commencez par brancher tous les cordons sur les
unités.

2. Débranchez les cordons d'alimentation des prises.

3. Branchez les câbles d'interface sur des connecteurs.

4. Débranchez tous les câbles des unités.

3. Débranchez les câbles d'interface des connecteurs.

4. Branchez les cordons d'alimentation sur des prises.
5. Mettez les unités SOUS TENSION.

ATTENTION:
Remplacer la pile au lithium usagée par une pile de référence identique exclusivement, (référence
45C1566), ou suivre les instructions du fabricant qui en définit les équivalences. Si votre système est
doté d'un module contenant une pile au lithium, vous devez le remplacer uniquement par un module
identique, produit par le même fabricant. La pile contient du lithium et peut exploser en cas de
mauvaise utilisation, de mauvaise manipulation ou de mise au rebut inappropriée.
Ne pas :
• la jeter à l'eau,
• l'exposer à des températures supérieures à 100°C,
• chercher à la réparer ou à la démonter.
Ne pas mettre la pile à la poubelle. Pour la mise au rebut, se reporter à la réglementation en vigueur.

Chapter 1. Read this first: Important safety information

ATTENTION:
Si des produits à laser (tels que des unités de CD-ROM, de DVD-ROM, des unités à fibres optiques, ou
des émetteurs) sont installés, prenez connaissance des informations suivantes :
• Ne retirez pas le carter. En ouvrant l'unité de CD-ROM ou de DVD-ROM, vous vous exposez au
rayonnement dangereux du laser. Aucune pièce de l'unité n'est réparable.
• Pour éviter tout risque d'exposition au rayon laser, respectez les consignes de réglage et
d'utilisation des commandes, ainsi que les procédures décrites dans le présent manuel.

DANGER
Certains produits à laser contiennent une diode à laser intégrée de classe 3A ou 3B. Prenez
connaissance des informations suivantes:
Rayonnement laser lorsque le carter est ouvert. Evitez toute expositiondirecte au rayon laser. Evitez
de regarder fixement le faisceau ou del'observer à l'aide d'instruments optiques.

≥18 kg (37 lb)

≥32 kg (70.5 lb)

≥55 kg (121.2 lb)

ATTENTION:
Soulevez la machine avec précaution.

ATTENTION:
L'interrupteur de contrôle d'alimentation de l'unité et l'interrupteur dubloc d'alimentation ne coupent
pas le courant électrique alimentantl'unité. En outre, le système peut être équipé de plusieurs
cordonsd'alimentation. Pour mettre l'unité hors tension, vous devez déconnectertous les cordons
de la source d'alimentation.

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

2
1

VORSICHT
An Netz-, Telefon- und Datenleitungen können gefährliche Spannungen anliegen.
Aus Sicherheitsgründen:
• Bei Gewitter an diesem Gerät keine Kabel anschließen oder lösen. Ferner keine Installations-,
Wartungs- oder Rekonfigurationsarbeiten durchführen.
• Gerät nur an eine Schutzkontaktsteckdose mit ordnungsgemäß geerdetem Schutzkontakt
anschließen.
• Alle angeschlossenen Geräte ebenfalls an Schutzkontaktsteckdosen mit ordnungsgemäß
geerdetem Schutzkontakt anschließen.
• Die Signalkabel nach Möglichkeit einhändig anschließen oder lösen, um einen Stromschlag durch
Berühren von Oberflächen mit unterschiedlichem elektrischem Potenzial zu vermeiden.
• Geräte niemals einschalten, wenn Hinweise auf Feuer, Wasser oder Gebäudeschäden vorliegen.
• Die Verbindung zu den angeschlossenen Netzkabeln, Telekommunikationssystemen, Netzwerken
und Modems ist vor dem Öffnen des Gehäuses zu unterbrechen, sofern in den Installations- und
Konfigurationsprozeduren keine anders lautenden Anweisungen enthalten sind.
• Zum Installieren, Transportieren und Öffnen der Abdeckungen des Computers oder der
angeschlossenen Einheiten die Kabel gemäß der folgenden Tabelle anschließen und abziehen.
Zum Anschließen der Kabel gehen Sie wie folgt vor

Zum Abziehen der Kabel gehen Sie wie folgt vor

1. Schalten Sie alle Einheiten AUS.

2. Schließen Sie erst alle Kabel an die Einheiten an.
3. Schließen Sie die Signalkabel an die Buchsen an.

2. Ziehen Sie zuerst alle Netzkabel aus den
Netzsteckdosen.

4. Schließen Sie die Netzkabel an die Steckdose an.

3. Ziehen Sie die Signalkabel aus den Buchsen.

5. Schalten Sie die Einheit EIN.

4. Ziehen Sie alle Kabel von den Einheiten ab.

CAUTION:
Eine verbrauchte Lithiumbatterie nur durch eine Batterie mit der Teilenummer 45C1566 oder eine
gleichwertige, vom Hersteller empfohlene Batterie ersetzen. Enthält das System ein Modul mit einer
Lithiumbatterie, dieses nur durch ein Modul desselben Typs und von demselben Hersteller ersetzen.
Die Batterie enthält Lithium und kann bei unsachgemäßer Verwendung, Handhabung oder Entsorgung
explodieren.
Die Batterie nicht:
• mit Wasser in Berührung bringen.

Chapter 1. Read this first: Important safety information

• über 100 C erhitzen.
• reparieren oder zerlegen.
Die örtlichen Bestimmungen für die Entsorgung von Sondermüll beachten.

ACHTUNG:
Bei der Installation von Lasergeräten (wie CD-ROM-Laufwerken, DVD- aufwerken, Einheiten mit
Lichtwellenleitertechnik oder Sendern) Folgendes beachten:
• Die Abdeckungen nicht entfernen. Durch Entfernen der Abdeckungen des Lasergeräts können
gefährliche Laserstrahlungen freigesetzt werden. Das Gerät enthält keine zu wartenden Teile.
• Werden Steuerelemente, Einstellungen oder Durchführungen von Prozeduren anders als hier
angegeben verwendet, kann gefährliche Laserstrahlung auftreten.

VORSICHT
Einige Lasergeräte enthalten eine Laserdiode der Klasse 3A oder 3B. Beachten Sie Folgendes:
Laserstrahlung bei geöffneter Verkleidung. Nicht in den Strahl blicken. Keine Lupen oder Spiegel
verwenden. Strahlungsbereich meiden.

≥18 kg

≥32 kg

≥55 kg

ACHTUNG:
Arbeitsschutzrichtlinien beim Anheben der Maschine beachten.

ACHTUNG:
Mit dem Netzschalter an der Einheit und am Netzteil wird die Stromversorgung für die Einheit
nicht unterbrochen. Die Einheit kann auch mit mehreren Netzkabeln ausgestattet sein. Um die
Stromversorgung für die Einheit vollständig zu unterbrechen, müssen alle zum Gerät führenden
Netzkabel vom Netz getrennt werden.

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

2
1

Chapter 1. Read this first: Important safety information

2
1

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

PERICOLO
La corrente elettrica proveniente dai cavi di alimentazione, del telefono e di comunicazione può essere
pericolosa.
Per evitare il rischio di scosse elettriche:
• Non collegare o scollegare qualsiasi cavo oppure effettuare l'installazione, la manutenzione o la
riconfigurazione del prodotto durante un temporale.
• Collegare tutti i fili elettrici a una presa di alimentazione correttamente cablata e dotata di messa a
terra.
• Collegare alle prese elettriche appropriate tutte le apparecchiature che verranno utilizzate per
questo prodotto.
• Se possibile, utilizzare solo una mano per collegare o scollegare i cavi di segnale.
• Non accendere assolutamente apparecchiature in presenza di incendi, perdite d'acqua o danno
strutturale.
• Scollegare i cavi di alimentazione, i sistemi di telecomunicazione, le reti e il modem prima di
aprire i coperchi del dispositivo, salvo istruzioni contrarie relative alle procedure di installazione e
configurazione.
• Collegare e scollegare i cavi come descritto nella seguente tabella quando vengono effettuate
operazioni di installazione, spostamento o apertura dei coperchi di questo prodotto o delle unità
collegate.
Per collegarsi

Per scollegarsi

1. SPEGNERE le apparecchiature.

2. Innanzitutto, collegare tutti i cavi alle unità.
3. Collegare i cavi di segnale ai connettori.

2. Innanzitutto, rimuovere i cavi di alimentazione dalla
presa.

4. Collegare i cavi di alimentazione alla presa.

3. Rimuovere i cavi di segnale dai connettori.

5. Accendere l'unità.

4. Rimuovere tutti i cavi dalle unità.

ATTENZIONE:
Quando si sostituisce la batteria al litio, utilizzare solo il Numero parte 45C1566 o un tipo di batteria
equivalente consigliato dal produttore. Se sul sistema è presente un modulo che contiene una batteria
al litio, sostituirlo solo con un tipo di modulo dello stesso tipo della stessa casa di produzione. La
batteria contiene litio e può esplodere se usata, maneggiata o smaltita in modo non corretto.
Non:
• Gettare o immergere la batteria nell'acqua
• Riscaldarla ad una temperatura superiore ai 100 gradi C (212 gradi F)
• Smontarla, ricaricarla o tentare di ripararla
Le batterie usate vanno smaltite in accordo alla normativa in vigore (DPR 915/82 e successive
disposizioni e disposizioni locali).
Chapter 1. Read this first: Important safety information

ATTENZIONE:
Quando vengono installati prodotti laser (quali CD-ROM, unità DVD-ROM, unità a fibre ottiche o
trasmittenti), tener presente quanto segue:
• Non rimuovere gli sportelli. L'apertura di un'unità laser può determinare l'esposizione a radiazioni
laser pericolose. All'interno dell'unità non vi sono parti su cui effettuare l'assistenza tecnica.
• L'utilizzo di controlli, regolazioni o l'esecuzione di procedure non descritti nel presente manuale
possono provocare l'esposizione a radiazioni pericolose.

PERICOLO
Alcune unità laser contengono un diodo laser di Classe 3A o Classe 3B. Tener presente quanto segue:
Aprendo l'unità vengono emesse radiazioni laser. Non fissare il fascio, non guardarlo direttamente
con strumenti ottici ed evitare l'esposizione al fascio.

≥18 kg

≥32 kg

≥55 kg

ATTENZIONE:
Prestare attenzione nel sollevare l'apparecchiatura.

ATTENZIONE:
Il pulsante di controllo dell'alimentazione presente sull'unità e l'interruttore dell'alimentatore non
disattivano l'alimentazione corrente fornita all'unità. E' possibile che l'unità disponga di più cavi di
alimentazione. Per disattivare l'alimentazione dall'unità, accertarsi che tutti i cavi di alimentazione
siano scollegati dalla fonte di alimentazione.

2
1

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

Chapter 1. Read this first: Important safety information

2
1

PELIGRO
La corriente eléctrica procedente de cables de alimentación, teléfonos y cables de comunicación puede
ser peligrosa.
Para evitar el riesgo de descarga eléctrica:
• No conecte ni desconecte los cables ni realice ninguna tarea de instalación, mantenimiento o
reconfiguración de este producto durante una tormenta eléctrica.
• Conecte todos los cables de alimentación a tomas de corriente debidamente cableadas y
conectadas a tierra.
• Cualquier equipo que se conecte a este producto también debe conectarse a tomas de corriente
debidamente cableadas.
• Siempre que sea posible, utilice una sola mano para conectar o desconectar los cables de señal.
24

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

• No encienda nunca un equipo cuando hay señales de fuego, agua o daños estructurales.
• Desconecte los cables de alimentación, los sistemas de telecomunicaciones, las redes y los
módems conectados antes de abrir las cubiertas de los dispositivos, a menos que se indique lo
contrario en los procedimientos de instalación y configuración.
• Conecte y desconecte los cables, como se describe en la tabla siguiente, cuando instale, mueva o
abra las cubiertas de este producto o de los dispositivos conectados.
Para conectar

Para desconectar

1. APÁGUELO todo.

2. En primer lugar, conecte todos los cables a los
dispositivos.

2. En primer lugar, desenchufe los cables de alimentación
de las tomas de corriente.

3. Conecte los cables de señal a los conectores.

3. Desconecte los cables de señal de los conectores.

4. Enchufe los cables de alimentación a las tomas de
corriente.

4. Desconecte todos los cables de los dispositivos.

5. Encienda el dispositivo.

PRECAUCIÓN:
Cuando sustituya una batería de litio, utilice solamente una batería número de pieza 45C1566 u otra
de tipo equivalente recomendada por el fabricante. Si su sistema dispone de un módulo que contiene
una batería de litio, reemplácelo sólo con el mismo tipo de módulo, del mismo fabricante. La batería
contiene litio y puede explotar si no se utiliza, manipula o desecha correctamente.
No debe:
• Arrojarla al agua o sumergirla en ella
• Exponerla a temperaturas superiores a 100°C (212°F)
• Repararla o desmontarla
Deshágase de la batería según especifiquen las leyes o normas locales.

PRECAUCIÓN:
Cuando haya productos láser (como unidades de CD-ROM, unidades de DVD, dispositivos de fibra
óptica o transmisores) instalados, tenga en cuenta lo siguiente:
• No quite las cubiertas. Si quita las cubiertas del producto láser, podría quedar expuesto a radiación
láser peligrosa. Dentro del dispositivo no existe ninguna pieza que requiera servicio técnico.
• Si usa controles o ajustes o realiza procedimientos que no sean los especificados aquí, podría
exponerse a radiaciones peligrosas.

PELIGRO

Chapter 1. Read this first: Important safety information

Algunos productos láser tienen incorporado un diodo láser de clase 3A o clase 3B. Tenga en cuenta lo
siguiente:
Cuando se abre, queda expuesto a radiación láser. No mire directamente al rayo láser, ni siquiera con
instrumentos ópticos, y evite exponerse directamente al rayo láser.

≥18 kg

≥32 kg

≥55 kg

PRECAUCIÓN:
Adopte procedimientos seguros al levantar el equipo.

PRECAUCIÓN:
El botón de control de alimentación del dispositivo y el interruptor de alimentación de la fuente de
alimentación no desconectan la corriente eléctrica suministrada al dispositivo. Además, el dispositivo
podría tener más de un cable de alimentación. Para suprimir toda la corriente eléctrica del dispositivo,
asegúrese de que todos los cables de alimentación estén desconectados de la toma de corriente.

2
1

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

Chapter 2. Product overview
This chapter provides the following information:
• Locations of connectors
• Locations of components
• Locations of parts on the system board
• Locations of internal drives
• Computer features
• Software programs provided by Lenovo

Locations
This section provides the following topics:
•

“Locating connectors, controls, and indicators on the front of your computer” on page 28

•

“Locating connectors on the rear of your computer” on page 29

•

“Locating components” on page 30

•

“Locating parts on the system board” on page 34

•

“Locating the machine type and model label” on page 35

Note: The components in your computer might look slightly different from the illustrations.

Locating connectors, controls, and indicators on the front of your
computer
The following illustration shows the locations of the connectors, controls, and indicators on the front of your
computer.

Figure 1. Front connector, control, and indicator locations
1 Power button

2 Bluetooth activity indicator

3 Wireless activity indicator

4 Hard disk drive activity indicator

5 Power indicator

6 USB 2.0 connector

7 Microphone connector

8 Headset connector

9 Always-on USB 3.0 connector

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

Locating connectors on the rear of your computer
The following illustration shows the locations of the connectors on the rear of your computer. Some
connectors on the rear of your computer are color-coded to help you determine where to connect the
cables on your computer.

Figure 2. Rear connector locations
1 USB 2.0 connector

2 Ethernet connector

3 VGA connector

4 USB 2.0 connector

5 USB 2.0 connector

6 DisplayPort® connector

7 ac power adapter connector

8 Security-lock slot

9 Optional connector

10 ac power adapter cable loop

11 Wi-Fi antenna slot

Notes:
• The USB 2.0 connector 4 supports the smart power on feature that enables you to turn on the computer
or wake it up from S4 hibernation mode by pressing Alt+P on the keyboard. You can enable or disable
the smart power on feature from the Setup Utility program. For detailed information, see “Enabling or
disabling a device” on page 63.
• If you use the optional connector for installing a serial connector, the serial connector and the adjacent
VGA connector might interfere with each other when connecting cables. To avoid the interference, ensure
that you use the serial connector convert cable that comes with the computer when you connect a
device to the serial connector.

Chapter 2. Product overview

Connector

Description

DisplayPort connector

Used to attach a high-performance monitor, a direct-drive monitor, or other devices
that use a DisplayPort connector.

Ethernet connector

Used to attach an Ethernet cable for a local area network (LAN).
Note: To operate the computer within FCC Class B limits, use a Category 5e or
better Ethernet cable.

Headset connector

Used to attach a supported headset to your computer to record sound, use
speech-recognition software, listen to music, or other sounds without disturbing
anyone. The headset connector is also known as audio jack.

Microphone connector

Used to attach a microphone to your computer when you want to record sound or if
you use speech-recognition software.

USB 2.0 connector

Use this connector to attach a device that requires a USB 2.0 connection, such as a
keyboard, a mouse, a scanner, a printer, or a personal digital assistant (PDA).

USB 3.0 connector

Use this connector to attach a device that requires a USB 2.0 or USB 3.0
connection, such as a keyboard, a mouse, a scanner, a printer, or a PDA.

VGA connector

Used to attach a VGA monitor or other devices that use a Video Graphics Array
(VGA) connector.

Locating components
The following illustration shows the locations of the various components in your computer. To remove the
computer cover, see “Removing the computer cover” on page 123.

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

Figure 3. Component locations
1 External optical drive (some models)

2 External hard disk drive (some models)

3 VESA® mount bracket (some models)

4 Computer cover

5 ac power adapter bracket (some models)

6 ac power adapter

7 Microprocessor fan

8 Heat sink

9 Cover presence switch (intrusion switch) (some models)

10 Memory module

11 Internal speaker

12 Front Wi-Fi antenna (some models)

13 Power button board

14 Coin-cell battery

15 Hard disk drive assembly

16 Wi-Fi card module (some models)

Chapter 2. Product overview

17 Rear Wi-Fi antenna (some models)

18 Vertical stand (some models)

19 Keyboard

20 Mouse

Locating major FRUs and CRUs
The following illustration shows the locations of the major FRUs and Customer Replaceable Units (CRUs) in
the computer. To remove the computer cover, see “Removing the computer cover” on page 123.

Figure 4. Locating major FRUs and CRUs

The following table lists the major FRUs shown in the illustration above and identifies which FRUs are
also self-service CRUs or optional-service CRUs.

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

Notes:
• Self-service CRUs: These CRUs unplug or are secured by no more than two screws. Examples of
these types of CRUs include the keyboard, the mouse, any USB device, and the power cord. Other
self-service CRUs depending on product design might include memory modules, adapter cards, hard
disk drives, and optical drives.
• Optional-service CRUs: These CRUs are isolated parts within the computer and are concealed by an
access panel that is typically secured by more than two screws. Once the access panel is removed, the
specific CRU is visible.
Number

FRU description

Self-service CRU

Optional-service CRU

External optical drive (some models)

Yes

External hard disk drive (some models)

Yes

VESA mount bracket (some models)

Yes

Computer cover

Yes

ac power adapter bracket (some models)

Yes

ac power adapter

Yes

Microprocessor fan

Yes

Heat sink

Yes

Cover presence switch (intrusion switch) (some
models)

Yes

Memory module

Yes

Internal speaker

Yes

Front Wi-Fi antenna (some models)

Yes

Power button board

Yes

Coin-cell battery

Yes

System board

Hard disk drive assembly

Yes

Wi-Fi card module (some models)

Yes

Rear Wi-Fi antenna (some models)

Yes

Vertical stand (some models)

Yes

Keyboard

Yes

Mouse

Yes

For detailed FRU information, such as the FRU part numbers and supported computer models, go to:
http:/www.lenovo.com/serviceparts-lookup

Chapter 2. Product overview

Locating parts on the system board
The following illustration shows the locations of the parts on the system board.

Figure 5. System board part locations
1 Heat sink (with the microprocessor underneath)

2 Clear CMOS /Recovery jumper

3 Cover-presence-switch connector (intrusion switch
connector)

4 Memory slot

5 Internal speaker connector

6 Power button board cable connector

7 Coin-cell battery

8 Mini PCI Express card slot

9 SATA 2.0 connector

10 Hard disk drive power connector

11 Serial (COM) connector

12 Optional USB 2.0 connector

13 Microprocessor fan connector

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

Locating the machine type and model label
The machine type and model label identifies your computer. When you contact Lenovo for help, the machine
type and model information helps support technicians to identify your computer and provide faster service.
The machine type and model label is attached on the side of your computer as shown.

Figure 6. Machine type and model label

Features
The computer features introduced in this section covers a variety of models.

Chapter 2. Product overview

Microprocessor
To view the microprocessor information of your computer, do the following:
• On the Microsoft® Windows® 7 operation system, click Start, right-click Computer, and select Properties
to view the information.
• On the Microsoft Windows 8.1 operating system, go to the desktop and move your pointer to the
top-right or bottom-right corner of the screen to display the charms. Then click Settings ➙ PC info to
view the information.
Memory
Your computer supports up to one double data rate 3 small outline dual inline memory modules (DDR3
SODIMMs).
To determine the amount of memory installed on your computer, do the following:
• On Windows 7, click Start, right-click Computer, and select Properties to view the information.
• On Windows 8.1, go to the desktop and move your pointer to the top-right or bottom-right corner of the
screen to display the charms. Then click Settings ➙ PC info to view the information.
For more information, see “Replacing the memory module” on page 129.
Internal drives
• External optical drive (available on some models)
• Hard disk drive
• Hybrid drive (available on some models)
• Solid-state drive (available on some models)
Video features
Integrated graphics supports the following connectors on your computer:
• DisplayPort connector
• VGA connector
Audio features
Integrated audio controller supports the following connectors and devices on your computer:
• Headset connector
• Internal speaker (available on some models)
• Microphone connectors
Input/Output (I/O) features
• Audio connectors (headset connector and microphone connectors)
• Display connectors (DisplayPort connector and VGA connector)
• Ethernet connector
• One optional connector
• USB connectors
For more information, see “Locating connectors, controls, and indicators on the front of your computer” on
page 28 and “Locating connectors on the rear of your computer” on page 29.

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

Expansion
• External optical drive box (available on some models)
• Hard disk drive bay
• Memory slot
• Mini PCI Express card slot
Power supply
Your computer comes with a 65-watt ac power adapter.
Wireless features
Depending on your computer model, the following wireless features might be supported:
• Wireless local area network (LAN)
• Bluetooth
System management features
• Ability to store power-on self-test (POST) hardware test results
• Desktop Management Interface (DMI)
Desktop Management Interface provides a common path for users to access information about all
aspects of a computer. The information includes processor type, installation date, attached printers and
other peripherals, power sources, maintenance history, and so on.
• ErP LPS compliance mode
The energy-related products directive (ErP) lowest power state (LPS) compliance mode reduces the
consumption of electricity when your computer is in sleep or off mode. For more information, see
“Enabling ErP LPS compliance mode” on page 64.
• Intelligent Cooling Engine (ICE)
The Intelligent Cooling Engine is a system thermal management solution that enables your computer
to run with better thermal and acoustic performance. The ICE function also monitors the thermal
performance of your computer to identify thermal problems. For more information, see “ICE performance
mode” on page 65 and “ICE thermal alert” on page 66.
• Intel® Standard Manageability
Intel Standard Manageability is hardware- and firmware-based technology that makes computers easier
and less expensive for businesses to monitor, maintain, update, upgrade, and repair.
• Preboot Execution Environment (PXE)
Preboot Execution Environment enables computers to start through a network interface independent of
data storage devices (such as the hard disk drive) or installed operating systems.
• Smart Performance Choice
The Smart Performance Choice function enables your computer to run with better acoustic performance
or better thermal performance. See “Smart performance choices” on page 65.
• System Management (SM) Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) and SM software
The SMBIOS specification defines data structures and access methods that can be used to read
management data stored in the BIOS of a computer.
• Wake on LAN
Wake on LAN is an Ethernet computer networking standard that allows a computer to be turned on
or woken up by a network message. The message is usually sent by a program running on another
computer on the same LAN.

Chapter 2. Product overview

• Wake on Ring
Wake on Ring, sometimes referred to as Wake on Modem, is a specification that allows supported
computers and devices to resume from sleep or hibernation mode.
• Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI)
Windows Management Instrumentation is a set of extensions to the Windows Driver Model. It provides an
operating system interface through which instrumented components provide information and notification.
Security features
• Ability to enable and disable devices and USB connectors
For more information, see “Enabling or disabling a device” on page 63.
• A variety of passwords to deter unauthorized use of your computer
For more information, see “Using passwords” on page 57.
• Computrace Agent software embedded in firmware
The Computrace Agent software is an IT asset management and computer theft recovery solution.
The software detects if changes have been made on the computer, such as hardware, software, or
the computer call-in location. You might have to purchase a subscription to activate the Computrace
Agent software.
• Cover presence switch (also called intrusion switch) (available on some models)
For more information, see “Using the cover presence switch” on page 58.
• Keyboard with fingerprint reader (available on some models)
For more information, see “Using the fingerprint reader” on page 58.
• Startup sequence control
For more information, see “Selecting or changing the startup device sequence” on page 64.
• Startup without keyboard or mouse
Your computer is able to log in to the operating system without keyboard or mouse connected.
• Support for a Kensington-style cable lock
For more information, see “Attaching a Kensington-style cable lock” on page 57.
Preinstalled operating system
Your computer is preinstalled with one of the following operating systems:
• Windows 7 operating system
• Windows 8.1 operating system
Operating system(s), certified or tested for compatibility (varies by model type)
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 provider.
• Linux®

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

Specifications
This section lists the physical specifications for your computer.
Dimensions
Width: 179 mm (7.05 inches)
Height: 34.5 mm (1.36 inches)
Depth: 182 mm (7.17 inches)
Weight
Maximum configuration as shipped: 4.86 kg (10.71 lb) (with package)
Maximum configuration as shipped: 4.14 kg (9.13 lb) (without package)
Environment
• Air temperature:
Operating: From 10°C (50°F) to 35°C (95°F)
Storage in original shipping package: From -40°C (-40°F) to 60°C (140°F)
Storage without package: From -10°C (14°F) to 60°C (140°F)
• Humidity:
Operating: 20%–80% (non-condensing)
Storage: 20%–90% (non-condensing)
• Altitude:
Operating: From -15.2 m (-50 ft) to 3048 m (10 000 ft)
Storage: From -15.2 m (-50 ft) to 10 668 m (35 000 ft)
Electrical input
Input voltage: From 100 V ac to 240 V ac
Input frequency: 50/60 Hz

Lenovo programs
Your computer comes with Lenovo programs to help you work more easily and securely. Depending on
the Windows operating system preinstalled, the programs might vary.

Accessing Lenovo programs on the Windows 7 operating system
You can access Lenovo programs on the Windows 7 operating system through Windows Search or from
Control Panel. The icon name displayed in the search result or Control Panel might be different from the
program name. You can find the program by its program name or icon name as shown in the Lenovo
programs available on the Windows 7 operating system table.
Note: If you do not find the program you need, open the Lenovo ThinkVantage® Tools program to find the
dimmed icon for the program. Then double-click the icon to install the program.
To access Lenovo programs through Windows Search, do the following:
1. Click the Start button and then type the program name or the icon name into the search box.
2. Locate the program by the program name or the icon name and then click the program to launch it.
To access Lenovo programs from Control Panel, do the following:

Chapter 2. Product overview

Note: Some Lenovo programs might not be displayed in Control Panel. To find these programs, use
Windows Search.
1. Click Start ➙ Control Panel. Change the view of Control Panel from Category to Large icons or Small
icons.
2. Locate the program by the icon name and then click the program to launch it.
The following table lists the programs available on the Windows 7 operating system.
Note: Depending on your computer model, some of the Lenovo programs might not be available.
Table 1. Lenovo programs available on the Windows 7 operating system
Program name

Icon name

Communications Utility

Lenovo - Web Conferencing

Fingerprint Manager Pro or
ThinkVantage Fingerprint Software

Lenovo - Fingerprint Manager Pro or Lenovo - Fingerprint Reader

Lenovo Bluetooth Lock

Lenovo Reach

Lenovo SHAREit

Lenovo Solution Center

Lenovo - System Health and Diagnostics

Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools

Lenovo Thinkvantage Tools

Password Manager

Lenovo - Password Vault

PC Cloud Manager

Power Manager

Lenovo - Power Controls

Recovery Media

Lenovo - Factory Recovery Disks or Create Recovery Media

Rescue and

Recovery®

Lenovo - Enhanced Backup and Restore

System Update

Lenovo - Update and Drivers

View Management Utility

Lenovo - View Management Utility

Wifi Display Receiver

Accessing Lenovo programs on the Windows 8.1 operating system
If your computer is preinstalled with the Windows 8.1 operating system, you can access Lenovo programs
by doing the following:
to go to the Start screen. Click a Lenovo program to launch it. If you cannot find
Press the Windows key
the program you need, click the arrow icon in the bottom-left corner of the screen to go to the Apps screen.
Find the desired program in the apps list or search for it in the search box in the top-right corner of the screen.
Note: Depending on your computer model, some of the Lenovo programs might not be available.
• Fingerprint Manager Pro or ThinkVantage Fingerprint Software
• Lenovo Bluetooth Lock
• Lenovo Companion
• Lenovo Reach
• Lenovo SHAREit
• Lenovo Solution Center

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

• Lenovo Support
• Lenovo Tools
• Password Manager
• PC Cloud Manager
• Power Manager
• System Update
• Wifi Display Receiver

An introduction to Lenovo programs
This topic provides a brief introduction to some Lenovo programs.
Note: Depending on your computer model, some of the Lenovo programs might not be available.
• Communications Utility (Windows 7)
The Communications Utility program provides a central location for integrated camera and microphone
settings. It controls advanced settings for the integrated microphone and camera to optimize Web
conferencing and Voice over IP (VOIP) experience.
• Fingerprint Manager Pro or ThinkVantage Fingerprint Software (Windows 7 and Windows 8.1)
The integrated fingerprint reader provided on some keyboards enables you to enroll your fingerprint and
associate it with your power-on password, hard disk password, and Windows password. As a result,
fingerprint authentication can replace passwords and enable simple and secure user access.
• Lenovo Bluetooth Lock (Windows 7 and Windows 8.1)
The Lenovo Bluetooth Lock program enables you to use a Bluetooth device (such as your smartphone) as
a proximity-based unit for locking or unlocking your computer automatically. By detecting the distance
between your computer and the predefined Bluetooth device that you are carrying, the Lenovo Bluetooth
Lock program automatically locks your computer when you walk away and unlocks your computer when
you come back. This is a simple way to protect your computer against unauthorized access in case
that you forget to lock your computer.
• Lenovo Companion (Windows 8.1)
Through the Lenovo Companion program, you can get information about accessories for your computer,
view blogs and articles about your computer, and learn about other recommended programs.
• Lenovo Reach (Windows 7 and Windows 8.1)
Use the Lenovo Reach program to enhance your cloud experience. Lenovo Reach keeps you connected
at all times and enables you to access all your favorite items from personal computers, smartphones,
or tablets. As a result, you can access, edit, and share your files from anywhere. With Lenovo Reach,
you also can add your favorite Web services to your cloud desktop and stay logged-in to Web sites with
the cloud password manager.
• Lenovo SHAREit (Windows 7 and Windows 8.1)
The Lenovo SHAREit program provides a quick and easy way to share files and folders among computers,
smartphones, tablets, or smart TVs with the Android or the Windows operating system installed. SHAREit
uses any type of network or even no network at all to share files and folders.
• Lenovo Solution Center (Windows 7 and Windows 8.1)
The Lenovo Solution Center program enables you to troubleshoot and resolve computer problems. It
combines diagnostic tests, system information collection, security status, and support information, along
with hints and tips for maximum system performance.
• Lenovo Support (Windows 8.1)

Chapter 2. Product overview

The Lenovo Support program enables you to register your computer with Lenovo and check the computer
health condition and battery status. The program also enables you to download and view user manuals
for your computer, get the warranty information, and explore help and support information.
• Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools (Windows 7)
The Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools program provides easy access to various tools to help you work more
easily and securely.
• Lenovo Tools (Windows 8.1)
The Lenovo 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.
• Password Manager (Windows 7 and Windows 8.1)
The Password Manager program automatically captures and fills in authentication information for
Windows programs and Web sites.
• PC Cloud Manager (Windows 7 and Windows 8.1)
The PC Cloud Manager (PCM) program is a browser-based solution for client-computer management.
The PCM program has two components: PCM Server and PCM Client. PCM Server is installed on the
computer, where the administrator performs management work, such as power management and security
management. PCM Client is installed on the client computers to be managed. The administrator can log
in to PCM Server to manage computers with PCM Client installed, through the Internet Web browser.
• Power Manager (Windows 7 and Windows 8.1)
The Power Manager program provides convenient, flexible, and complete power management for your
computer. It enables you to adjust your computer power settings to achieve the best balance between
performance and power saving.
• Recovery Media (Windows 7)
The Recovery Media program enables you to restore the contents of the hard disk drive to the
factory-default settings.
• Rescue and Recovery (Windows 7)
The Rescue and Recovery program is a one-button recovery and restore solution. It 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.
• System Update (Windows 7 and Windows 8.1)
The System Update program helps you keep the software on your computer up-to-date by downloading
and installing software update packages. Examples of these software update packages include Lenovo
programs, device drivers, UEFI BIOS updates, and other third-party programs.
• View Management Utility (Windows 7)
The View Management Utility program enables you to easily organize your open windows. It divides your
screen into multiple parts and then resizes and positions open windows into different parts to make the
best use of your desktop. The program also is able to work across multiple monitors to improve your
productivity.
• Wifi Display Receiver (Windows 7 and Windows 8.1)
The Wifi Display Receiver program enables you to view and control the display of a Miracast source
device (such as your smartphone and tablet) on the computer with no need to use cables or a network
connection. To achieve this, your computer must be equipped with a Realtek Wi-Fi card and has the
Wifi Display Receiver program installed.

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

Chapter 3. Using your computer
This chapter provides information about the following topics:
•

“Registering your computer” on page 43

•

“Using keyboard shortcuts” on page 43

•

“Using the wheel mouse” on page 44

•

“Setting the computer volume” on page 45

•

“Using a disc” on page 46

•

“Navigating among screens on the Windows 8.1 operating system” on page 47

•

“Accessing Control Panel on the Windows 8.1 operating system” on page 49

•

“Frequently asked questions” on page 49

Registering your computer
When you register your computer, information is entered into a database, which enables Lenovo to contact
you in case of a recall or other severe problem. After you register your computer with Lenovo, you will receive
quicker service when you call Lenovo for help. In addition, some locations offer extended privileges and
services to registered users.
To register your computer with Lenovo, do one of the following:
• Go to http://www.lenovo.com/register and follow the instructions on the screen to register your computer.
• Register your computer through a preinstalled registration program with your computer connected to
the Internet:
– For Windows 7: The preinstalled Lenovo Product Registration program launches automatically after you
have used your computer for a time. Follow the instructions on the screen to register your computer.
– For Windows 8.1: Open the Lenovo Support program. Then, click Registration and follow the
instructions on the screen to register your computer.
Note: For detailed information on how to open the Lenovo Support program on Windows 8.1, see
“Accessing Lenovo programs on the Windows 8.1 operating system” on page 40.

Using keyboard shortcuts
A keyboard shortcut is one key or combination of multiple keys. Through keyboard shortcuts, you can
perform tasks that would typically require a mouse or other pointing devices. Keyboard shortcuts provide
an easier alternative to interact with your computer as you work with the Windows operating system and
most applications.
For more information about the keyboard shortcuts, go to http://windows.microsoft.com/, and then type any
of the following keywords for searching: keyboard shortcuts, key combinations, shortcut keys.

Using the wheel mouse
The wheel mouse has the following controls:

Primary mouse button: Use this button to select or start a program or menu item.

2 Wheel: Use the wheel to control the scrolling action of the mouse. The direction in which you rotate the
wheel controls the direction of the scrolling action.
3

Secondary mouse button: Use this button to display a menu for the active program, icon, or object.

You can view and change the settings of your mouse by doing the following:
1. On the Windows 7 operating system, click Start ➙ Control Panel ➙ Hardware and Sound. On the
Windows 8.1 operating system, open Control Panel and click Hardware and Sound.
Note: For detailed information on how to open Control Panel on Windows 8.1, see “Accessing Control
Panel on the Windows 8.1 operating system” on page 49.
2. In the Devices and Printers section, click Mouse to view and change the settings.

Managing power
Power management reduces the power consumption of certain components of the computer such as the
system power supply, processor, hard disk drives, and some monitors.

Advanced configuration and power interface (ACPI) BIOS
Being an ACPI BIOS system, the operating system is allowed to control the power management features
of the computer and the setting for Advanced Power Management (APM) BIOS mode is ignored. Not
all operating systems support ACPI BIOS mode.

Automatic Power-on features
The Automatic Power-On features within the Power Management menu allow you to enable and disable
features that turn on the computer automatically.
• Wake Up on Alarm: You can specify a date and time at which the computer will be turned on
automatically. This can be either a single event or a daily event.
• Wake on LAN: If the computer has a properly configured token-ring or Ethernet LAN adapter card that is
Wake on LAN-enabled and there is remote network management software, you can use the Wake on LAN
feature. When you set Wake on LAN to Enabled, the computer will turn on when it receives a specific
signal from another computer on the local area network (LAN).

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

To enable the Wake on LAN function or the Wake Up on Alarm function on the Windows 8.1 operating
system, do the following:
1. Open Control Panel.
2. Click Hardware and Sound ➙ Power Options.
3. In the left panel, click Choose what the power button does.
4. In the Shutdown setting section, clear Turn on fast startup.
Note: If the settings are unavailable, click Change settings that are currently unavailable.
5. Click Save changes.

Setting the computer volume
An audio controller is built into the computer system board to support the audio connectors on your
computer. See “Audio features” on page 36.
This section provides instructions on how to set the computer volume from the desktop and Control Panel.

Setting the volume from the desktop
To set the computer volume from the desktop, do the following:
1. Click the volume icon on the taskbar. You can locate the taskbar at the bottom-right corner of the
desktop.
2. Move the slider up to increase or down to decrease the volume. Click the mute-speaker icon to turn off
the audio.
If the volume icon is not on the taskbar, add the volume icon to the taskbar. To add the volume icon,
do the following:
• For Windows 7:
1. From the Windows desktop, click Start ➙ Control Panel ➙ Appearance and Personalization.
2. In the Taskbar and Start Menu section, click Customize icons on the taskbar.
3. Click Turn system icons on or off and change the volume behaviors from Off to On.
4. Click OK to save the new settings.
• For Windows 8.1:
1. Open Control Panel, and click Appearance and Personalization.
Note: For detailed information on how to open Control Panel on Windows 8.1, see “Accessing
Control Panel on the Windows 8.1 operating system” on page 49.
2. In the Taskbar and Navigation section, click Customize icons on the taskbar.
3. Click Turn system icons on or off and change the volume behavior from Off to On.
4. Click OK to save the new settings.

Setting the volume from Control Panel
To set the computer volume from Control Panel, do the following:
1. On the Windows 7 operating system, click Start ➙ Control Panel ➙ Hardware and Sound. On the
Windows 8.1 operating system, open Control Panel and click Hardware and Sound.
Note: For detailed information on how to open Control Panel on Windows 8.1, see “Accessing Control
Panel on the Windows 8.1 operating system” on page 49.

Chapter 3. Using your computer

2. In the Sound section, click Adjust system volume.
3. Move the slider up to increase or down to decrease the volume.

Using a disc
This section provides information about the following topics:
•

“Using the optical drive” on page 46

•

“Handling and storing a disc” on page 46

•

“Playing and removing a disc” on page 47

•

“Recording a disc” on page 47

Using the optical drive
Depending on the model, your computer is equipped with one of the following optical drives:
• CD-ROM drive: Used to read CDs only.
• DVD-ROM drive: Used to read DVDs and CDs.
• BD-ROM drive: Used to read blu-ray discs (BDs), DVDs, and CDs.
• Recordable optical drive: Used to read and record a disc.
When using the optical drive, follow these guidelines:
• Do not place the computer in a location where the drive is exposed to any of the following conditions:
– High temperature
– High humidity
– Excessive dust
– Excessive vibration or sudden shock
– An inclined surface
– Direct sunlight
• Do not insert any object other than a disc into the drive.
• Do not insert damaged discs into the drive. Warped, scratched, or dirty discs can damage the drive.
• Before moving the computer, remove the disc from the drive.

Handling and storing a disc
When handling and storing a disc, follow these guidelines:
• Hold the disc by its edges. Do not touch the surface of the side that is not labeled.
• To remove dust or fingerprints, wipe the disc with a clean, soft cloth from the center to the outside. Wiping
the disc in a circular direction might cause loss of data.
• Do not write or stick paper on the disc.
• Do not scratch or mark the disc.
• Do not place or store the disc in direct sunlight.
• Do not use benzene, thinners, or other cleaners to clean the disc.
• Do not drop or bend the disc.

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

Playing and removing a disc
To play a disc, do the following:
1. With the computer on, press the eject/close button on the front of the optical drive. The tray slides
out of the drive.
2. Insert a disc into the tray. Some optical drive has a snap hub in the center of the tray. If your drive has a
snap hub, support the tray with one hand and then push center of the disc until it snaps into place.
3. Press the eject/close button again or gently push the tray forward to close the tray. The disc player
program starts automatically. For more information, refer to the help system of the disc player program.
To remove a disc from the optical drive, do the following:
1. With the computer on, press the eject/close button on the front of the optical drive. The tray slides
out of the drive.
2. Carefully remove the disc from the tray.
3. Press the eject/close button again or gently push the tray forward to close the tray.
Note: If the tray does not slide out of the drive when you press the eject/close button, turn off your computer.
Then, insert a straightened paper clip into the emergency-eject hole adjacent to the eject/close button.
Use the emergency eject only in an emergency.

Recording a disc
If your computer is installed with a recordable optical drive, you can use the drive to record a disc.
To record a disc, do the following:
• On the Windows 7 operating system, use either the Corel DVD MovieFactory Lenovo Edition program or
the Power2Go program installed on your computer.
– To run the Corel DVD MovieFactory Lenovo Edition program, click Start ➙ All Programs ➙ Corel
DVD MovieFactory Lenovo Edition ➙ Corel DVD MovieFactory Lenovo Edition. Follow the
instructions on the screen.
– To run the Power2Go program, click Start ➙ All Programs ➙ PowerDVD Create ➙ Power2Go.
Follow the instructions on the screen.
• On the Windows 8.1 operating system, run the Power2Go program by doing the following:
1. On the Start screen, click the down arrow
in the bottom-left corner to go to the Apps screen. Then
type Power2Go in the search box in the top-right corner of the screen.
2. Click Power2Go in the search result to open the program.
3. Follow the instructions on the screen.

Navigating among screens on the Windows 8.1 operating system
To navigate among the desktop, the Start screen, and applications opened from the Start screen on the
Windows 8.1 operating system, do one of the following:
• From the Start screen, do one of the following to navigate to the most recently accessed workspace
(application, setting, or desktop):
– Using a pointing device: Move the pointer to the extreme bottom-left corner of the screen until the
Windows screen-control icon
is displayed; then click the icon.
– Using a touch screen: Swipe in and out on the left edge of the screen. Representations of all available
workspaces are displayed along the left edge of the screen. Tap the Windows screen-control icon
at the bottom.

Chapter 3. Using your computer

Note: The Windows screen-control icon
is displayed only when you have at least one active
workspace in the background of the system.
• From the desktop or any other workspace that is opened from the Start screen, do one of the following to
navigate to the Start screen:
– Using a pointing device:
– From the desktop, click the Windows screen-control icon

in the bottom-left corner of the screen.

– From any other workspace, move the pointer to the extreme bottom-left corner of the screen until
the Windows screen-control icon
is displayed; then click the icon.
– Using a touch screen: Do one of the following:
– From the desktop, tap the Windows screen-control icon

in the bottom-left corner of the screen.

– From any other workspace, do one of the following:
• Swipe in and out on the left edge of the screen. Representations of all available workspaces
are displayed along the left edge of the screen. Tap the Windows screen-control icon
at
the bottom.
• Swipe in from the right edge of the screen to display the charms; then tap Start.
• From any workspace (Start screen, desktop, PC settings, or application opened from the Start screen), go
to another previously-opened workspace using any of the following procedures:
– To navigate to a previously accessed workspace (application, setting, or desktop), do one of the
following:
– Using a pointing device:
1. Do one of the following:
• Move the pointer to the extreme top-left corner of the screen and then move the pointer
downward along the left edge of the screen.
• Move the pointer to the extreme bottom-left corner of the screen and then move the pointer
upward along the left edge of the screen.
Representations of all available workspaces are displayed along the left edge of the screen.
Note: Only active workspaces that you have accessed during the current Windows session are
displayed along the left edge. If you close an active workspace, its representation will not be
displayed along the left edge of the screen.
2. Click the representation.
– Using a touch screen:
• Method 1
1. Swipe in and out on the left edge of the screen. Representations of all available workspaces
are displayed along the left edge of the screen.
2. Tap the desired workspace.
• Method 2
1. Swipe in from the left edge of the screen to navigate to the next available workspace.
2. Repeat step 1 until you navigate to the desired workspace.
– To navigate to the most recently accessed workspace (application, PC settings, or desktop), do one
of the following:
– Using a pointing device: Move the pointer to the extreme top-left corner of the screen until the
Windows screen-control icon
is displayed; then click the icon.

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

– Using a touch screen: Swipe in from the left edge of the screen.
For information about using other features of the Windows 8.1 operating system, open the Help+Tips
application from the Start screen or Apps screen. Alternatively, refer to the Windows Help and Support
information system. For more information, see “Help and Support” on page 151.

Accessing Control Panel on the Windows 8.1 operating system
On the Windows operating system, you can view and change computer settings through Control Panel. To
access Control Panel on the Windows 8.1 operating system, do one of the following:
• From the desktop
1. Move the pointer to the top-right or bottom-right corner of the screen to display the charms.
2. Click Settings.
3. Click Control Panel.
• From the Start screen
1. Click the down arrow

in the bottom-left corner of the screen to go to the Apps screen.

2. Scroll to the right side, and click Control Panel in the Windows System section.

Frequently asked questions
The following are some of the frequently asked questions and their answers. The answers can help you
optimize the use of your computer.
For the answers to more frequently asked questions about using your computer, go to:
http://www.lenovo.com/support/faq
How can I get my user guide in another language?
The user guide is available in various languages at:
http://www.lenovo.com/UserManuals
How can I restore my computer settings?
Your computer provides a program that enables you to restore the computer settings. For more information,
see Chapter 10 “Recovery information” on page 95.
Additionally, in case of a hard-disk-drive failure, you can order a recovery disc set from the Lenovo Customer
Support Center. For information about contacting the Customer Support Center, see Chapter 12 “Getting
information, help, and service” on page 151. Before using the recovery disc set, refer to the documentation
that comes with the disc set.
Note: A recovery disc set might contain multiple discs. Ensure that you have all of the discs ready before
starting the recovery process. During the recovery process, you might be prompted to change discs.
Where can I find help about the Windows operating system?
The Windows Help and Support information system provides you with detailed information about using
the Windows operating system. To access the Windows Help and Support information system, do one
of the following:
• On the Windows 7 operating system, click Start ➙ Help and Support.
• On the Windows 8.1 operating system, move your pointer to the top-right or bottom-right corner of the
screen to display the charms. Then click Settings ➙ Help. Additionally, the Windows 8.1 operating
system provides a Help+Tips application that you can open from the Start screen or Apps screen.

Chapter 3. Using your computer

How can I change the Windows 8.1 startup behavior to open either the desktop or the Start screen?
On the Windows 8.1 operating system, you can set the computer to open either the desktop or the Start
screen by default. To set the default startup screen, do the following:
1. On the desktop, right-click on the taskbar at the bottom of the screen.
2. Click Properties. The “Taskbar and Navigation properties” window is displayed.
3. On the Navigation tab, locate the Start screen section, and then do one of the following:
• To set the desktop as your default startup screen, select When I sign in or close all apps on a
screen, go to the desktop instead of Start.
• To set the Start screen as your default startup screen, clear the When I sign in or close all apps on
a screen, go to the desktop instead of Start check box.
4. Click OK to save the new setting.

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

Chapter 4. You and your computer
This chapter provides information about accessibility, comfort, and relocating your computer to other
countries or regions.

Accessibility and comfort
Good ergonomic practice is important to get the most from your personal computer and to avoid discomfort.
Arrange your workplace and the equipment you use to suit your individual needs and the kind of work
that you perform. In addition, use healthy work habits to maximize your performance and comfort while
using your computer.
The following topics provide information about arranging your work area, setting up your computer
equipment, and establishing healthy work habits.

Arranging your workspace
To get the most from your computer, arrange both the equipment you use and your work area to suit your
needs and the kind of work you do. Your comfort is of foremost importance, but light sources, air circulation,
and the location of electrical outlets can also affect the way you arrange your workspace.

Comfort
Although no single working position is ideal for everyone, here are a few guidelines to help you find a
position that suits you best.
Sitting in the same position for a long time can cause fatigue. The backrest and seat of your chair should
adjust independently and provide good support. The seat should have a curved front to relieve pressure on
the thighs. Adjust the seat so that your thighs are parallel to the floor and your feet are either flat on the
floor or on a footrest.
When using the keyboard, keep your forearms parallel to the floor and your wrists in a comfortable position.
Use a light touch on the keyboard and your hands and fingers relaxed. Change the angle of the keyboard
for maximum comfort by adjusting the position of the keyboard feet.

Adjust the monitor so the top of the screen is at, or slightly below, eye level. Place the monitor at a
comfortable viewing distance, usually 51–61 cm (20–24 inches). Then, position the monitor so that you can
view it without twisting your body. Also, position other equipment you use regularly, such as the telephone
or a mouse, within easy reach.

Glare and lighting
Position the monitor to minimize glare and reflections from overhead lights, windows, and other light sources.
Reflected light from shiny surfaces can cause annoying reflections on your monitor screen. Place the
monitor at right angles to windows and other light sources, when possible. Reduce overhead lighting, if
necessary, by turning off lights or using lower wattage bulbs. If you install the monitor near a window, use
curtains or blinds to block the sunlight. You can adjust the brightness and contrast controls on the monitor
as the room lighting changes throughout the day.
Where it is impossible to avoid reflections or to adjust the lighting, an antiglare filter placed over the screen
might be helpful. However, these filters might affect the clarity of the image on the screen; try them only after
you have exhausted other methods of reducing glare.
Dust buildup compounds problems associated with glare. Remember to clean your monitor screen
periodically using a soft cloth as directed in your monitor documentation.

Air circulation
Your computer and monitor produce heat. The computer has a fan that pulls in fresh air and forces out hot
air. The monitor lets hot air escape through vents. Blocking the air vents can cause overheating, which might
result in a malfunction or damage. Place the computer and monitor so that nothing blocks the air vents;
usually, 51 mm (2 inches) of air space is sufficient. Also, ensure that the vented air is not blowing on people.

Electrical outlets and cable lengths
The following factors might determine the final placement of your computer:
• Location of electrical outlets
• Length of power cords
• Length of the cables that are connected to the monitor and other devices
When arranging your workspace:
• Avoid the use of extension cords. When possible, plug the computer power cord directly into an electrical
outlet.
• Keep power cords and cables neatly routed away from walkways and other areas where they might
get kicked accidentally.
For more information about power cords, see “Power cords and power adapters” on page 1.

Accessibility information
Lenovo is committed to providing people with disabilities greater access to information and technology.
Some technologies are already provided in your operating system. Others can be purchased through
vendors.
Users also can use the Ease of Access Center provided in the Windows operating system to configure their
computers to suit their physical and cognitive needs. The Ease of Access Center is a central location that
you can use to configure the accessibility settings and programs available on the Microsoft Windows
operating system. To use the Ease of Access Center, open Control Panel and click Ease of Access
➙ Ease of Access Center.
The following information provides ways to help users who have hearing, vision, and mobility limitations get
the most out of their computer experience.

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

On-screen notification
On-screen notification helps hearing-impaired people be aware of the status of their computer. On-screen
notification replaces sounds with visual cues or text captions to indicate that activity is happening on the
computer. As a result, system alerts are noticeable even when they are not heard. For example, when you
select one object with your keyboard, the object is highlighted. When you move the pointer to one object
with your mouse, the introductory text of the object is displayed.
To use on-screen notification, open Control Panel, click Ease of Access ➙ Ease of Access Center, and
then click Use text or visual alternatives for sounds.
Audio notification
Audio notification helps visually impaired people or people with weak sight be aware of the status of their
computer.
To use audio notification, open Control Panel, click Ease of Access ➙ Ease of Access Center ➙ Use the
computer without a display, and then select Turn on Audio Description.
Narrator
Narrator is a screen reader that reads what is displayed on the screen aloud and describes events like
error messages.
To open Narrator, do the following:
• For Windows 7: Click the Start button. Then, type Narrator into the search field. In the list of results,
click Narrator.
• For Windows 8.1: Move your pointer to the top-right or bottom-right corner of the screen to display the
charms and click Search. Then, type Narrator into the search field. In the list of results, click Narrator.
For more information about how to use and configure Narrator, see the Windows Help and Support
information system.
Screen-reader technologies
Screen-reader technologies are primarily focused on software program interfaces, help information systems,
and a variety of online documents. For additional information about screen readers, see the following:
• Using PDFs with screen readers:
http://www.adobe.com/accessibility.html?promoid=DJGVE
• Using the JAWS screen reader:
http://www.freedomscientific.com/jaws-hq.asp
• Using the NVDA screen reader:
http://www.nvaccess.org/
Speech Recognition
Speech Recognition enables you to control your computer by voice.
Using only your voice, you can start programs, open menus, click objects on the screen, dictate text into
documents, and write and send e-mails. Everything you do with the keyboard and mouse can be done with
only your voice.
To open Speech Recognition, do the following:
• For Windows 7: Click the Start button. Then, type Speech Recognition into the search field. In the list
of results, click Speech Recognition.

Chapter 4. You and your computer

• For Windows 8.1: Move your pointer to the top-right or bottom-right corner of the screen to display the
charms and click Search. Then, type Speech Recognition into the search field. In the list of results,
click Speech Recognition.
For more information about how to use and configure Speech Recognition, see the Windows Help and
Support information system.
Customizable text size
Depending on your preference, you can change only the text size instead of changing the size of everything
on the desktop. To change the text size, open Control Panel and click Appearances and Personalization ➙
Display. Then, go to Change only the text size and set a text size that meets your needs.
Magnifier
Your computer is equipped with the Microsoft Magnifier to help visually impaired people use the computer
more comfortably. Magnifier is a useful utility that enlarges the entire screen or part of the screen so that you
can see the words and images better. You can open Magnifier from the Ease of Access Center.
To open Magnifier, do the following:
• For Windows 7: Click the Start button, click All Programs ➙ Accessories ➙ Ease of Access, and
then click Magnifier.
• For Windows 8.1: Move your pointer to the top-right or bottom-right corner of the screen to display the
charms and click Search. Then, type Magnifier into the search field. In the list of results, click Magnifier.
For more information about how to use and configure Magnifier, see the Windows Help and Support
information system.
Note: For touch-screen computer models, you also can zoom in and zoom out by using touch gestures
instead of the keyboard. See “Zoom” on page 54.
Zoom
You can use the zoom feature to enlarge or reduce the size of text, pictures, maps, or other objects.
• From the keyboard:
– Zoom in: Press the Windows logo key + the plus-sign key (+) to enlarge the size of text, pictures,
maps, or other objects.
– Zoom out: Press the Windows logo key + the minus-sign (-) key to reduce the size of text, pictures,
maps, or other objects.
• From the touch screen:
– Zoom in: Move two fingers farther apart on the touch screen to enlarge the size of text, pictures,
maps, or other objects.
– Zoom out: Move two fingers closer together on the touch screen to reduce the size of text, pictures,
maps, or other objects.
Screen resolution
You can make your documents easier to read by adjusting the screen resolution of your computer. To adjust
the screen resolution, right click anywhere on the desktop, click Screen resolution, and then adjust the
settings as you prefer.
Note: Setting too low of a resolution might prevent some items from fitting on the screen.
For alternatives on increasing the size of text and other objects, see the following:
54

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

•

“Customizable text size” on page 54

•

“Magnifier” on page 54

•

“Zoom” on page 54

Ease of Access keyboard shortcuts
The following table contains keyboard shortcuts that can help make your computer easier to use.
Keyboard shortcut

Function

Windows logo key + U

Open the Ease of Access Center

Right Shift for eight seconds

Turn Filter Keys on or off

Shift five times

Turn Sticky Keys on or off

Num Lock for five seconds

Turn Toggle Keys on or off

Left Alt+Left Shift+Num Lock

Turn Mouse Keys on or off

Left Alt+Left Shift+PrtScn (or PrtSc)

Turn High Contrast on or off

For more information, go to http://windows.microsoft.com/, and then type any of the following keywords
for searching: keyboard shortcuts, key combinations, shortcut keys.
On-Screen Keyboard
If you prefer to type or enter data into your computer without using a physical keyboard, you can use
On-Screen Keyboard. On-Screen Keyboard displays a visual keyboard with all the standard keys. You can
select keys using the mouse or another pointing device, or you can tap to select the keys if your computer
supports multi-touch screen.
To open On-Screen Keyboard, do the following:
• For Windows 7: Click the Start button. Then, type On-Screen Keyboard into the search field. In the list of
results, click On-Screen Keyboard.
• For Windows 8.1: Move your pointer to the top-right or bottom-right corner of the screen to display the
charms and click Search. Then, type On-Screen Keyboard into the search field. In the list of results,
click On-Screen Keyboard.
For more information about how to use and configure On-Screen Keyboard, see the Windows Help and
Support information system.
Personalized keyboard
The tactile bumps on the keyboard provide a reference point from which you can easily locate all keys on
the keyboard without visual assistance.
To adjust your keyboard settings, open Control Panel, click Ease of Access ➙ Ease of Access Center,
and then click Make the keyboard easier to use.
Industry-standard connectors
Your computer provides industry-standard connectors that enable you to connect assistive devices,
if needed.
For more information about the location and function of the connectors, see “Locating connectors, controls,
and indicators on the front of your computer” on page 28 and “Locating connectors on the rear of your
computer” on page 29.

Chapter 4. You and your computer

TTY/TDD conversion modem
Your computer supports the use of the text telephone (TTY) or the telecommunications device for the
deaf (TDD) conversion modem. The modem must be connected between your computer and a TTY/TDD
telephone. Then, you can type a message on your computer and send it to the telephone.
Documentation in accessible formats
Lenovo provides electronic documentation in accessible formats, such as properly tagged PDF files or
HyperText Markup Language (HTML) files. Lenovo electronic documentation is developed to ensure
that visually impaired users can read the documentation through a screen reader. Each image in the
documentation also includes adequate alternative text so that visually impaired users can understand the
image when they use a screen reader.

Moving your computer to another country or region
When you move your computer to another country or region, you must take local electrical standards
into consideration.
If you relocate your computer to a country or region that uses an electrical outlet style different from the
type you are currently using, you will have to purchase either electrical plug adapters or new power cords.
You can order power cords directly from Lenovo.
For power cord information and part numbers, go to:
http://www.lenovo.com/powercordnotice

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

Chapter 5. Security
This chapter provides information about how to protect your computer from theft and unauthorized use.

Attaching a Kensington-style cable lock
You can use a Kensington-style cable lock to secure your computer to a desk, table, or other non-permanent
fixture. The cable lock attaches to the security-lock slot at the rear of your computer. Depending on the type
selected, the cable lock can be operated with a key or combination. The cable lock also locks the buttons
used to open the computer cover. This is the same type of lock used with many notebook computers. You
can order such a cable lock directly from Lenovo by searching for Kensington at:
http://www.lenovo.com/support

Figure 7. Kensington-style cable lock

Using passwords
You can set a variety of passwords through the Microsoft Windows operating system and through the BIOS
of your computer to help deter unauthorized use of your computer.

BIOS passwords
You can use the BIOS Setup Utility program to set passwords to prevent unauthorized access to your
computer and data. The following types of passwords are available:
• Administrator password
• Hard disk password

• Power-on password (POP)
For more information about BIOS passwords, see “Using BIOS passwords” on page 62.You do not have to
set any passwords to use your computer. However, using passwords improves computing security.

Windows passwords
Depending on your version of the Windows operating system, you can use Windows passwords for a variety
of features, including access control and individual user settings. For more information, see the Windows
Help and Support information system.

Using the cover presence switch
The cover presence switch prevents your computer from logging in to the operating system when the
computer cover is not properly installed or closed. To enable the cover-presence-switch connector on the
system board, do the following:
1. Start the Setup Utility program. See “Starting the Setup Utility program” on page 61.
2. Set the administrator password. See “Setting, changing, and deleting a password” on page 62.
3. From the Security submenu, select Chassis Intrusion Detection ➙ Enabled. The
cover-presence-switch connector on the system board is enabled.
When you turn on the computer, if the cover presence switch detects that your computer cover is not
correctly installed or closed, an error message will be displayed. To bypass the error message and log in to
the operating system, do the following:
1. Properly install or close your computer cover. See “Completing the parts replacement” on page 147.
2. Press F1 to enter the Setup Utility program. Then press F10 to save and exit the Setup Utility program.
The error message will not be displayed again.

Using the fingerprint reader
The integrated fingerprint reader provided on some keyboards enables you to enroll your fingerprint and
associate it with your power-on password, hard disk password, and Windows password. As a result,
fingerprint authentication can replace passwords and enable simple and secure user access.
To open Fingerprint Manager Pro or ThinkVantage Fingerprint Software and use the fingerprint reader,
do the following:
• On the Windows 7 operating system, see “Accessing Lenovo programs on the Windows 7 operating
system” on page 39.
• On the Windows 8.1 operating system, see “Accessing Lenovo programs on the Windows 8.1 operating
system” on page 40.
To configure the fingerprint reader, do the following:
1. Start the Setup Utility program. See “Starting the Setup Utility program” on page 61.
2. From the Setup Utility program main menu, select Security ➙ Fingerprint Setup, and press Enter.
The Fingerprint Setup window opens.
3. Select Preboot Authentication or Erase Fingerprint Data as desired, and press Enter.
Note:
• Preboot Authentication: enables or disables the fingerprint authentication for accessing the BIOS.
• Erase Fingerprint Data: clears the fingerprint data stored in a fingerprint reader.

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

4. Select the desired settings and press Enter.
5. Press F10 to save changes and exit the Setup Utility program. Press Enter when prompted to confirm
the exit.
For more information about using the fingerprint reader, refer to the help system of Fingerprint Manager Pro
or ThinkVantage Fingerprint Software.

Using and understanding firewalls
A firewall can be hardware, software, or a combination of both depending on the level of security required.
Firewalls work on a set of rules to determine which inbound and outbound connections are authorized. If
your computer is preinstalled with a firewall program, it helps protect against computer Internet security
threats, unauthorized access, intrusions, and Internet attacks. It also protects your privacy. For more
information about how to use the firewall program, refer to the help system of your firewall program.
The Windows operating system preinstalled on your computer provides the Windows Firewall. For details on
using the Windows Firewall, refer to “Help and Support” on page 151.

Protecting data against viruses
Your computer is preinstalled with an antivirus program to help you guard against, detect, and eliminate
viruses.
Lenovo provides a full version of antivirus software on your computer with a free 30-day subscription. After
30 days, you must renew the license to continue receiving the antivirus software updates.
Note: Virus definition files must be kept up-to-date to guard against new viruses.
For more information about how to use your antivirus software, refer to the help system of your antivirus
software.

Chapter 5. Security

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

Chapter 6. Advanced configuration
This chapter provides the following information to help you configure the computer:
•

“Using the Setup Utility program” on page 61

•

“Updating or recovering the BIOS” on page 66

Using the Setup Utility program
The Setup Utility program is used to view and change the configuration settings of your computer, regardless
of which operating system you are using. However, the operating system settings might override any similar
settings in the Setup Utility program.

Starting the Setup Utility program
To start the Setup Utility program, do the following:
1. Ensure that your computer is turned off.
2. Repeatedly press and release the F1 key when turning on the computer. When you hear multiple
beeps or see a logo screen, release the F1 key.
Note: If a power-on password or an administrator password has been set, the Setup Utility program
menu will not be displayed until you enter the correct password. For more information, see “Using
BIOS passwords” on page 62.
When the POST detects that the hard disk drive has been removed from your computer or the memory size
has decreased, an error message will be displayed. You must do one of the following:
• Press F1 to enter the Setup Utility program.
Note: After you enter the Setup Utility program, press F10 to save changes and exit the Setup Utility
program. Press Enter when prompted to confirm the exit. The error message will not be displayed again.
• Press F2 to bypass the error message and log in to the operating system.
Note: You have to enable the configuration change detection feature for the POST to detect the removal of
the hard disk drive. To enable the configuration change detection feature, do the following:
1. Start the Setup Utility program.
2. From the Setup Utility program main menu, select Security ➙ Configuration Change Detection,
and press Enter.
3. Select Enabled and press Enter.
4. Press F10 to save changes and exit the Setup Utility program. Press Enter when prompted to confirm
the exit.

Viewing and changing settings
The Setup Utility program menu lists various items about the system configuration. To view or change
settings, start the Setup Utility program. See “Starting the Setup Utility program” on page 61. Then, follow
the instructions on the screen.
You can use either the keyboard or the mouse to navigate through menu choices. The keys used to perform
various tasks are displayed at the bottom of each screen.

Using BIOS passwords
By using the Setup Utility program, you can set passwords to prevent unauthorized access to your computer
and data.
You do not have to set any passwords to use your computer. However, using passwords improves computer
security. If you decide to set any passwords, read the following topics.

Setup Utility program password types
The following types of passwords are available:
• Power-on password
When a power-on password is set, you are prompted to enter a valid password each time the computer is
turned on. The computer cannot be used until the valid password is entered.
• Administrator password
Setting an administrator password deters unauthorized users from changing configuration settings. If you
are responsible for maintaining the configuration settings of several computers, you might want to set
an Administrator password.
When an administrator password is set, you are prompted to enter a valid password each time you
try to access the Setup Utility program. The Setup Utility program cannot be accessed until a valid
password is entered.
If both the power-on password and administrator password are set, you can enter either password.
However, you must use your Administrator password to change any configuration settings.
• Hard disk password
Setting a hard disk password prevents unauthorized access to the data on the hard disk drive. When a
hard disk password is set, you are prompted to enter a valid password each time you try to access the
hard disk drive.
Notes:
– After you set a hard disk password, your data on the hard disk drive is protected even if the hard disk
drive is removed from one computer and installed in another.
– If the hard disk password is forgotten, there is no way to reset the password or recover data from the
hard disk drive.

Password considerations
A password can be any combination of up to 64 alphabetic and numeric characters. For security reasons, it
is recommended to use a strong password that cannot be easily compromised.
Note: The Setup Utility program passwords are not case sensitive.
To set a strong password, consider the following guidelines:
• 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

Setting, changing, and deleting a password
To set, change, or delete a password, do the following:
1. Start the Setup Utility program. See “Starting the Setup Utility program” on page 61.
2. From the Setup Utility program main menu, select Security.
62

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

3. Depending on the password type, select Set Power-On Password, Set Administrator Password, or
Hard Disk Password.
4. Follow the instructions on the right side of the screen to set, change, or delete a password.
Note: A password can be any combination of up to 64 alphabetic and numeric characters. For more
information, see “Password considerations” on page 62.

Erasing lost or forgotten passwords (clearing CMOS)
This section provides instructions on how to erase lost or forgotten passwords, such as a user password.
To erase a lost or forgotten password, do the following:
1. Remove all media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer. Then, disconnect
all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables that are connected to the computer.
2. Remove the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 123.
3. Locate the Clear CMOS /Recovery jumper on the system board. See “Locating parts on the system
board” on page 34.
4. Move the jumper from the standard position (pin 1 and pin 2) to the maintenance position (pin 2 and
pin 3).
5. Reinstall the computer cover and connect the power cord. See “Completing the parts replacement” on
page 147.
6. Turn on the computer and leave it on for approximately 10 seconds. Then, turn off the computer by
holding the power button for approximately five seconds.
7. Repeat step 1 through step 2.
8. Move the Clear CMOS /Recovery jumper back to the standard position (pin 1 and pin 2).
9. Reinstall the computer cover and connect the power cord. See “Completing the parts replacement” on
page 147.

Enabling or disabling a device
This section provides information on how to enable or disable user access to the following devices:
USB Setup

Use this option to enable or disable a USB connector. When a USB connector is
disabled, the device connected to the USB connector cannot be used.

SATA Controller

When this option is set to Disable, all devices connected to the SATA connectors
(such as hard disk drives or optical drives) are disabled and cannot be accessed.

To enable or disable a device, do the following:
1. Start the Setup Utility program. See “Starting the Setup Utility program” on page 61.
2. From the Setup Utility program main menu, select Devices.
3. Depending on the device you want to enable or disable, do one of the following:
• Select USB Setup to enable or disable a USB device.
• Select ATA Drive Setup to enable or disable an internal or external SATA device.
4. Select the desired settings and press Enter.
5. Press F10 to save changes and exit the Setup Utility program. See “Exiting the Setup Utility program”
on page 66.

Chapter 6. Advanced configuration

Selecting a startup device
If your computer does not start up from a device as expected, do one of the following to select the startup
device you want.

Selecting a temporary startup device
Use this procedure to select a temporary startup device.
Note: Not all discs and hard disk drives are bootable.
1. Turn on or restart your computer.
2. When you see the logo screen, repeatedly press and release the F12 key. The Startup Device Menu
window is displayed.
3. Select the desired startup device and press Enter. The computer will start up from the device you
selected.
Note: Selecting a startup device from the Startup Device Menu window does not permanently change
the startup sequence.

Selecting or changing the startup device sequence
To view or permanently change the configured startup device sequence, do the following:
1. Start the Setup Utility program. See “Starting the Setup Utility program” on page 61.
2. From the Setup Utility program main menu, select Startup.
3. Select the devices for the Primary Startup Sequence, the Automatic Startup Sequence, and the Error
Startup Sequence. Read the information displayed on the right side of the screen.
4. Press F10 to save changes and exit the Setup Utility program. See “Exiting the Setup Utility program”
on page 66.

Enabling ErP LPS compliance mode
Lenovo computers meet the eco-design requirements of the ErP Lot 3 regulation. For more information, go
to:
http://www.lenovo.com/ecodeclaration
You can enable ErP LPS compliance mode in the Setup Utility program to reduce the consumption of
electricity when your computer is off or in sleep mode.
To enable ErP LPS compliance mode in the Setup Utility program, do the following:
1. Start the Setup Utility program. See “Starting the Setup Utility program” on page 61.
2. From the Setup Utility program main menu, select Power ➙ Enhanced Power Saving Mode, and
press Enter.
3. Select Enabled and press Enter.
4. From the Power menu, select Automatic Power On and press Enter.
5. Select Wake on Lan and press Enter.
6. Select Disabled and press Enter.
7. Press F10 to save changes and exit the Setup Utility program. Press Enter when prompted to confirm
the exit.
When ErP LPS compliance mode is enabled, you can wake up your computer by doing one of the following:
• Press the power button
• Enable the wake up on alarm feature

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

The wake up on alarm feature enables your computer to wake up at a set time. To enable the wake
up on alarm feature, do the following:
1. Start the Setup Utility program.
2. From the Setup Utility program main menu, select Power ➙ Automatic Power On, and press Enter.
3. Select Wake Up on Alarm and press Enter. Then follow the instructions on the screen.
4. Press F10 to save changes and exit the Setup Utility program. Press Enter when prompted to
confirm the exit.
• Enable the after power loss feature
The after power loss feature enables your computer to wake up when the power supply resumes after a
sudden loss of electricity. To enable the after power loss feature, do the following:
1. Start the Setup Utility program.
2. From the Setup Utility program main menu, select Power ➙ After Power Loss, and press Enter.
3. Select Power On and press Enter.
4. Press F10 to save changes and exit the Setup Utility program. Press Enter when prompted to
confirm the exit.

Smart performance choices
You can adjust the acoustic and thermal performance of your computer through the Smart Performance
Choice menu. Two choices are available:
• Better Acoustic Performance (default choice)
• Better Thermal Performance
By enabling Better Acoustic Performance, your computer will run with less noise at a normal thermal
level. By enabling Better Thermal Performance, your computer will run at a better thermal level with
normal acoustic performance.
To switch between better acoustic performance and better thermal performance, do the following:
1. Start the Setup Utility program. See “Starting the Setup Utility program” on page 61.
2. From the Setup Utility program main menu, select Power.
3. Select Smart Performance Choice. The Smart Performance Choice window is displayed.
4. Select Better Acoustic Performance or Better Thermal Performance as desired.
5. Press F10 to save your setting and exit the Setup Utility program. See “Exiting the Setup Utility
program” on page 66.

ICE performance mode
You can adjust the acoustic and thermal performance of your computer through the ICE Performance
Mode menu. Two choices are available:
• Better Acoustic Performance (default setting)
• Better Thermal Performance
By enabling Better Acoustic Performance, your computer will run with less noise at a normal thermal
level. By enabling Better Thermal Performance, your computer will run at a better thermal level with
normal acoustic performance.
To configure the ICE performance mode, do the following:
1. Start the Setup Utility program. See “Starting the Setup Utility program” on page 61.
Chapter 6. Advanced configuration

2. From the Setup Utility program main menu, select Power.
3. Select Intelligent Cooling Engine (ICE). The Intelligent Cooling Engine (ICE) window is displayed.
4. Select ICE Performance Mode. The ICE Performance Mode window is displayed.
5. Select Better Acoustic Performance or Better Thermal Performance as desired.
6. Press F10 to save changes and exit the Setup Utility program. See “Exiting the Setup Utility program”
on page 66.

ICE thermal alert
You can monitor the thermal function of your computer under critical thermal situations through the ICE
Thermal Alert menu. Two choices are available:
• Enabled (default setting)
• Disabled
After enabling the ICE thermal alert function, when critical thermal situations occur, such as malfunctioning
fans, abnormally high temperature, and poor cooling performances, an alert log will be written into the
Windows system log. The alert log can help you identify the thermal problems.
To configure the ICE thermal alert function, do the following:
1. Start the Setup Utility program. See “Starting the Setup Utility program” on page 61.
2. From the Setup Utility program main menu, select Power.
3. Select Intelligent Cooling Engine (ICE). The Intelligent Cooling Engine (ICE) window is displayed.
4. Select ICE Thermal Alert. The ICE Thermal Alert window is displayed.
5. Select Enabled or Disabled as desired.
6. Press F10 to save changes and exit the Setup Utility program. See “Exiting the Setup Utility program”
on page 66.

Exiting the Setup Utility program
After you finish viewing or changing settings, press Esc to return to the Setup Utility program main menu.
You might have to press Esc several times. Do one of the following:
• If you want to save the new settings, press F10 to save changes and exit the Setup Utility program.
• If you do not want to save the settings, select Exit ➙ Discard Changes and Exit, and then press Enter.
When the Reset Without Saving window displays, select Yes, and then press Enter to exit the Setup
Utility program.
• If you want to return to the default settings, press F9 to load the default settings, and then press F10 to
save and exit the Setup Utility program.

Updating or recovering the BIOS
Lenovo might make changes and enhancements to the BIOS. When updates are released, they are available
as downloadable files on the Lenovo Web site at http://www.lenovo.com/drivers. Instructions for using the
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.
This chapter provides information about updating the BIOS, and how to recover from a BIOS update failure.

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

BIOS levels
An incorrect level of BIOS can cause false errors and unnecessary FRU replacement. Use the following
information to determine the current level of BIOS installed in the computer, the latest BIOS available for the
computer, and where to obtain the latest level of BIOS.
• To determine the current Level of BIOS:
– Start the Setup Utility.
– Select Main menu.
• Sources for obtaining the latest level BIOS available
1. Lenovo support web site: http://www.lenovo.com/support/
2. Lenovo Customer Support Center
3. Levels 1 and 2 Support
To update the BIOS, see “Updating or recovering the BIOS” on page 66.
Note: BIOS settings vary by operating system. Change the BIOS settings before installing a new operating
system. See “Changing the BIOS settings before installing a new operating system” on page 67.

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 “Using the Setup
Utility program” on page 61 for detailed information.
The system board of your computer has a module called electrically erasable programmable read-only
memory (EEPROM, also referred to as flash memory). It enables you to update the POST, the BIOS, and
the Setup Utility program easily. To perform such an update, you can either start your computer with a
system-program-update disc or run 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 an update program that can be used to create a system-program-update disc
or be run from the operating system.

Changing the BIOS settings before installing a new operating system
BIOS settings vary by operating system. Change the BIOS settings before installing a new operating system.
To change the BIOS settings, do the following:
1. Start the Setup Utility program. See “Starting the Setup Utility program” on page 61.
2. From the Setup Utility program main menu, select Exit ➙ OS Optimized Default.
3. Depending on the operating system to be installed, do one of the following:
• To install the Windows 8.1 (64-bit) operating system, select Enabled.
• To install an operating system other than Windows 8.1 (64-bit), select Disabled.
4. Select Yes in the window displayed and press Enter to confirm your selection.
5. Press F10 to save changes and exit the Setup Utility program. See “Exiting the Setup Utility program”
on page 66.

Chapter 6. Advanced configuration

Updating the BIOS from a disc
This section provides instructions on how to update (flash) the BIOS from a disc on the Windows 8.1 (64-bit)
operating system and on other operating systems.
Note: You can download a self-starting bootable disc image (known as an ISO image) with the system
program updates to create a system-program-update disc. Go to:
http://www.lenovo.com/support
To update (flash) the BIOS from a disc on the Windows 8.1 (64-bit) operating system, do the following:
1. Start the Setup Utility program. See “Starting the Setup Utility program” on page 61.
2. From the Setup Utility program main menu, select Exit ➙ OS Optimized Default ➙ Disabled.
3. Select Yes in the window displayed and press Enter to confirm your selection.
4. Press F10 to save changes and exit the Setup Utility program. See “Exiting the Setup Utility program”
on page 66.
5. Turn off your computer.
6. Press the power button to turn on the computer. Then repeatedly press and release the F12 key until the
Startup Device Menu window opens.
7. From the Startup Device Menu window, select the desired optical drive as the startup device. Then,
insert the disc into this optical drive and press Enter. The update begins.
8. 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, and then type in the serial
number and press Enter.
9. 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, and
then type in the machine type and model and press Enter.
10. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the update. After the update is completed, remove the
disc from the optical drive.
11. Restart your computer and start the Setup Utility program. See “Starting the Setup Utility program”
on page 61.
12. From the Setup Utility program main menu, select Exit ➙ OS Optimized Default ➙ Enabled.
13. Select Yes in the window displayed and press Enter to confirm your selection.
14. Press F10 to save changes and exit the Setup Utility program. See “Exiting the Setup Utility program”
on page 66.
To update the BIOS from a disc, do the following:
1. Turn off your computer.
2. Press the power button to turn on the computer. Then repeatedly press and release the F12 key until the
Startup Device Menu window opens.
3. From the Startup Device Menu window, select the desired optical drive as the startup device. Then,
insert the disc into this optical drive and press Enter. The update begins.
4. When prompted to change the serial number, it is suggested that you do not make this change by
pressing N. However, if you do want to change the serial number, press Y, then type in the serial number
and press Enter.
5. When prompted to change the machine type and model, it is suggested that you do not make this
change by pressing N. However, if you do want to change the machine type and model, press Y, then
type in the machine type and model and press Enter.

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

6. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the update. After the update is completed, remove the
disc from the optical drive.

Updating the BIOS from your operating system
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 the BIOS from
your operating system, do the following:
1. Go to http://www.lenovo.com/drivers and follow the instructions on the Web page to locate the BIOS
driver that you need.
2. Download the BIOS driver and the TXT file that contains the instructions.
3. Print the TXT file that contains the installation instructions and follow the instructions to update your
BIOS.

Recovering from a BIOS update failure
To recover from a BIOS update failure, do the following:
1. Remove all media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer. Then, disconnect
all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables that are connected to the computer.
2. Remove the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 123.
3. Locate the Clear CMOS /Recovery jumper on the system board. See “Locating parts on the system
board” on page 34.
4. Remove any cables that impede access to the Clear CMOS /Recovery jumper.
5. Move the jumper from the standard position (pin 1 and pin 2) to the maintenance position (pin 2 and
pin 3).
6. Reconnect any cables that were disconnected and reinstall the PCI card if removed.
7. Reinstall the computer cover and reconnect the power cords for the computer and monitor to electrical
outlets. See “Completing the parts replacement” on page 147.
8. Press the power button to turn on the computer and insert the BIOS update disc into the optical drive.
Wait a few minutes. The recovery process begins. After the recovery process is completed, your
computer will be turned off automatically.
Note: Depending on the computer model, the recovery process will take two to three minutes.
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. Reconnect any cables that were disconnected and reinstall the PCI card if removed.
12. Reinstall the computer cover and reconnect any cables that were disconnected.
13. Press the power button to turn on the computer and restart the operating system.

Chapter 6. Advanced configuration

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

Chapter 7. Preventing problems
This chapter provides information that can help you avoid common problems and keep your computer
running smoothly.

Keeping your computer current
In some situations you might find it necessary to have the most current software programs, device drivers, or
operating system. This section explains how to get the latest updates for your computer.

Getting the latest device drivers for your computer
Note: Lenovo makes constant improvements to its Web sites. The contents on the Web page are subject to
change without notice, including the contents referenced in the following procedure.
To get the latest device drivers for your computer, do the following:
1. Go to http://www.lenovo.com/support and follow the instructions on the screen.
2. Select your product by doing one of the following:
• Enter your machine information in the quick path.
• Choose from the product options.
3. Select the category of device and the operating system for which you need the device driver.
4. In the filtered list, download and install the appropriate device driver.
Attention: Do not download the latest device drivers from the Windows Update Web site. The device drivers
provided on the Windows Update Web site have not been tested by Lenovo and using them might cause
unexpected problems. Obtain the latest device drivers from Lenovo.

Updating your operating system
You can update your operating system through the system update feature provided by the operating system.
System updates include security fixes, new versions of Windows components, fixes to other portions of
the Windows operating system, or enhancements.
To update your operating system, do the following:
Note: Ensure that your computer is connected to the Internet.
• For Windows 7:
1. From the Windows desktop, click Start ➙ All Programs ➙ Windows Update.
2. Click Check for updates.
3. If any updates are available, select the updates you need and click Install updates.
• For Windows 8.1:
1. Move the pointer to the top-right or bottom-right corner of the screen to display the charms. Click
Settings ➙ Change PC settings ➙ Update and recovery ➙ Windows Update.
2. Click Check now.
3. If any updates are available, click View details, select the updates you need, and click Install.

Using the System Update program
The System Update program (hereinafter referred to as System Update) provides regular access to system
and software updates for your computer to keep your system and software up-to-date. System Update
gathers information from the Lenovo Help Center about new updates for your computer. Then System
Update sorts and displays each update as critical, recommended, or optional to help you understand the
importance. You have complete control of which updates to download and install. After you select the
updates you want, System Update automatically downloads and installs the updates without any further
intervention from you.
System Update is preinstalled on most Lenovo computers and is ready to run. The only prerequisite is
an active Internet connection. You can start the program manually, or you can use the schedule feature
to enable the program to search for updates automatically at specified intervals. You also can predefine
scheduled updates to search by severity (critical updates, critical and recommended updates, or all updates).
As a result, the list you choose from contains only those update types that are of interest to you.
To open System Update, see “Accessing Lenovo programs on the Windows 7 operating system” on page 39
or “Accessing Lenovo programs on the Windows 8.1 operating system” on page 40.
If System Update is not currently installed on your computer, you can download it from the Lenovo Support
Web site at:
http://www.lenovo.com/support

Cleaning and maintenance
With appropriate care and maintenance your computer will serve you reliably. The following topics offer
information to help you keep your computer in top working order.

Basics
Here are some basic points about keeping your computer functioning properly:
• Keep your computer in a clean, dry environment. Ensure that the computer rests on a flat, steady surface.
• Do not cover any of the vents in the computer or monitor. These vents provide airflow to keep your
computer from overheating.
• Keep food and drinks away from all parts of your computer. Food particles and spills might make the
keyboard and mouse stick and unusable.
• Do not get the power switches or other controls wet. Moisture can damage these parts and cause an
electrical hazard.
• Always disconnect a power cord by grasping the plug instead of the cord.

Cleaning your computer
It is a good practice to clean your computer periodically to protect the surfaces and ensure trouble-free
operation.
CAUTION:
Be sure to turn off the computer and monitor before cleaning the computer and monitor screen.

Computer
Use only mild cleaning solutions and a damp cloth to clean the painted surfaces of the computer.

Keyboard
To clean your computer keyboard, do the following:

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

1. Apply some isopropyl rubbing alcohol to a soft, dust-free cloth.
2. Wipe each keytop surface with the cloth. Wipe the keys one by one; if you wipe several keys at a time,
the cloth may hook onto an adjacent key and possibly damage it. Ensure that no liquid drips onto
or between the keys.
3. To remove any crumbs or dust from beneath the keys, you can use a camera blower with a brush
or cool air from a hair dryer.
Note: Avoid spraying cleaner directly onto the keyboard.

Optical mouse
An optical mouse uses a light-emitting diode (LED) and an optical sensor to navigate the pointer. If the
pointer on the screen does not move smoothly with the optical mouse, you might need to clean the mouse.
To clean an optical mouse, do the following:
1. Turn off your computer.
2. Disconnect the mouse cable from the computer.
3. Turn the mouse upside down to check the lens.
• If there is a smudge on the lens, gently clean the area with a plain cotton-tipped swab.
• 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 might be difficult for the digital signal processor to determine changes in the
mouse position.
5. Reconnect the mouse cable to the computer.
6. Turn your computer back on.

Display screen
Dust buildup compounds problems associated with glare. Remember to clean your monitor screen
periodically.
Cleaning a flat-panel monitor surface
To clean the flexible film surface of a flat-panel computer display, wipe it gently with a soft, dry cloth, or
blow on the screen to remove grit and other loose particles. Then moisten a cloth with LCD cleaner and
wipe the screen surface.
Many computer supply stores carry the special cleaning fluids for displays. Use cleaning fluids developed for
LCD displays only. First apply the fluid to a lint-free, soft cloth, then clean the LCD display. Some computer
supply stores carry pre-moistened towelettes for LCD maintenance.
Cleaning a glass-screen surface
To clean a glass-screen surface, wipe it gently with a soft, dry cloth, or blow on the screen to remove grit and
other loose particles. Then use a soft cloth moistened with a nonabrasive liquid glass cleaner.

Good maintenance practices
By performing a few good maintenance practices, you can maintain good computer performance, protect
your data, and be prepared in case of a computer failure.
• Empty your recycle bin on a regular basis.
• Use the disk defragmentation or disk optimization feature of your operating system occasionally to
prevent performance problems caused by an excessive number of fragmented files.

Chapter 7. Preventing problems

• Clean out your Inbox, Sent Items, and Deleted Items folders in your e-mail application on a regular basis.
• Back up critical data regularly on removable media memory, such as discs and USB storage devices,
and store the removable media in a safe location. The frequency of making backup copies depends on
how critical the data is to you or your business.
• Back up your entire hard disk drive on a regular basis.
• Keep your computer software, device drivers, and operating system up-to-date. See “Keeping your
computer current ” on page 71.
• Keep a log book. Entries might include major software or hardware changes, device-driver updates,
intermittent problems and what you did to resolve them, and other issues you might have experienced.
The cause of a problem might be change in hardware, change in software, or any other actions that might
have taken place. A log book can help you or a Lenovo technician determines the cause of a problem.
• Create Product Recovery discs. See “Creating and using recovery media” on page 95 for more information
about using Product Recovery discs to restore the hard disk drive to the factory-default settings.
• Create rescue media using discs or USB storage devices as early as possible. You can use a rescue
medium to recover from failures that prevent you from gaining access to the Windows environment or the
Rescue and Recovery workspace on your hard disk drive.

Moving your computer
Take the following precautions before moving your computer:
1. Back up all files and data from the hard disk drive. There are a variety of backup programs available
commercially. If you use the Windows 7 operating system, Lenovo provides the Rescue and Recovery
program to help you back up and restore data. See “Performing backup and recovery operations”
on page 96.
2. Remove all media from your computer, such as discs, USB storage devices, memory cards, and so on.
3. Turn off the computer and all attached devices. Your hard disk drive automatically parks the read/write
head in a nondata area. This prevents damage to the hard disk drive.
4. Unplug the power cords from electrical outlets.
5. Disconnect communication cables, such as modem or network cables, from the outlets first, and then
disconnect the other ends from the computer.
6. Note where any remaining cables are attached to the computer; then, remove them.
7. If you saved the original shipping cartons and packing materials, use them to pack the units. If you are
using different cartons, cushion the units to avoid damage.

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

Chapter 8. Troubleshooting and diagnostics
This chapter provides information about diagnosing and troubleshooting computer problems. If your
computer problem is not described here, see Chapter 12 “Getting information, help, and service” on page
151 for additional troubleshooting resources.

Basic troubleshooting
The following table provides some basic instructions to help you troubleshoot your computer problems.
Note: If you cannot correct the problem, have the computer serviced. For a list of service and support
telephone numbers, refer to the Safety, Warranty, and Setup Guide that comes with your computer or go to
the Lenovo Support Web site at:
http://www.lenovo.com/support/phone
Symptom
The computer does not start
when you press the power
button.

Action
Ensure that:
• The power cord is correctly connected to the rear of the computer and to a
working electrical outlet.
• If your computer has a secondary power switch on the rear of the computer,
ensure that it is switched on.
• The power indicator on the front of the computer is on.
• The computer voltage matches the voltage available at the electrical outlet for
your country or region.

The monitor screen is blank.

Ensure that:
• The monitor signal cable is correctly connected to the monitor and to the
appropriate monitor connector on the computer.
• The monitor power cord is correctly connected to the monitor and to a working
electrical outlet.
• The monitor is turned on and the brightness and contrast is set correctly.
• The computer voltage matches the voltage available at the electrical outlet for
your country or region.
• If your computer has a discrete graphics card installed, be sure to use a monitor
connector on the discrete graphics card.

The keyboard does not work.

Ensure that:
• The computer is turned on.
• The keyboard is securely connected to a PS/2 keyboard connector or a USB
connector on the computer.
• No keys are stuck.

The mouse does not work.

Ensure that:
• The computer is turned on.
• The mouse is securely connected to a PS/2 mouse connector or a USB
connector on the computer.
• The mouse is clean. Refer to “Optical mouse” on page 73 for further information.

Symptom

Action

The operating system does not
start.

Ensure that the startup sequence includes the device where the operating system
resides. Usually, the operating system is on the hard disk drive. For more
information, see “Selecting a startup device” on page 64.

The computer beeps multiple
times before the operating
system starts.

Ensure that no keys are stuck.

Troubleshooting procedure
Use the following procedure as a starting point for diagnosing problems you are experiencing with your
computer:
1. Ensure that the cables for all attached devices are connected correctly and securely.
2. Ensure that all attached devices that require ac power are connected to properly grounded, functioning
electrical outlets.
3. Ensure that all attached devices are enabled in the BIOS settings of your computer. For more information
about accessing and changing the BIOS settings, refer to “Using the Setup Utility program” on page 61.
4. Go to “Troubleshooting” on page 76 and follow the instructions for the type of problem you are
experiencing. If the Troubleshooting information does not help you resolve a problem, continue with the
next step.
5. Try using a previously captured configuration to see if a recent change to hardware or software settings
has caused a problem. Before restoring a previous configuration, capture your current configuration in
case the older configuration settings do not solve the problem or have adverse effects. To restore a
captured configuration, do the following:
• For Windows 7: Click Start ➙ Control Panel ➙ System and Security ➙ System ➙ System
Protection ➙ System Restore.
• For Windows 8.1: Open Control Panel, and then click System and Security ➙ System ➙ System
Protection ➙ System Restore.
Note: For detailed information on how to open Control Panel on Windows 8.1, see “Accessing
Control Panel on the Windows 8.1 operating system” on page 49.
If this does not correct the problem, continue with the next step.
6. Run the diagnostic program. See “Lenovo Solution Center” on page 86 for more information.
• If the diagnostic program detects a hardware failure or if you are unable to run the diagnostic
program, contact the Lenovo Customer Support Center. See Chapter 12 “Getting information, help,
and service” on page 151 for more information.
• If the diagnostic program does not detect a hardware failure, continue with the next step.
7. Use an antivirus program to see if your computer has been infected by a virus. If the program detects a
virus, remove the virus.
8. If none of these actions solve the problem, seek technical assistance. See Chapter 12 “Getting
information, help, and service” on page 151 for more information.

Troubleshooting
Use the troubleshooting information to find solutions to problems that have definite symptoms.
If the symptom occurred immediately after you installed new software or a new hardware option, do the
following before referring to the troubleshooting information:

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

1. Remove the new hardware option or software. If you must remove the computer cover to remove a
hardware option, ensure that you review and follow the electrical safety information provided with your
computer. For your safety, do not operate the computer with the cover removed.
2. Run the diagnostic program to ensure your computer is operating correctly.
3. Reinstall the new hardware option or software following the instructions provided by the manufacturer.

Audio problems
This section provides solutions to audio-related problems.

No audio in Windows
Solutions:
• If you are using powered external speakers that have an On/Off control, ensure the following:
– The On/Off control is set to the On position.
– The speaker power cable is connected to a properly grounded, functional ac electrical outlet.
• If your external speakers have a volume control, ensure that the volume is not set too low.
• On the Windows desktop, click the speaker icon in the Windows notification area. Then click Mixer.
Ensure that the mute speakers settings are not selected and none of the volume settings is set too low.
• Some models have a front audio panel you can use to adjust volume. If you have a front audio panel,
ensure that the volume is not set too low.
• Ensure that your external speakers (and headphones, if used) are connected to the correct audio
connector on the computer. Most speaker cables are color-coded to match the connector.
Note: When external-speaker or headphone cables are attached to the audio connector, the internal
speaker, if present, is disabled. In most cases, if an audio adapter is installed in one of the expansion
slots, the audio function built into the system board is disabled. Therefore, you must use the audio
connectors on the audio adapter.
• Ensure that the program you are running is designed for use in the Microsoft Windows operating system.
If the program is designed to run in DOS, the program does not use the Windows sound feature. The
program must be configured to use SoundBlaster Pro or SoundBlaster emulation.
• Ensure that the audio device drivers are correctly installed. See Windows Help and Support information
system for more information.

Sound comes from one external speaker only
Solutions:
• Ensure that the speaker cable is inserted completely into the connector on the computer.
• Ensure that the cable that attaches the left speaker to the right speaker is securely connected.
• Click the speaker icon in the Windows notification area. Then click the speaker icon on top of the volume
control. Click the Levels tab and ensure that the Balance settings are set correctly .

CD problems
This section provides solutions to CD-related problems.

An audio disc or AutoPlay-enabled disc does not automatically play when it is
inserted into a CD drive
Solutions:
• If you have multiple CD or DVD drives installed (or a combination of CD and DVD drives), try inserting the
disc into the other drive. In some cases, only one of the drives is connected to the audio subsystem.
Chapter 8. Troubleshooting and diagnostics

• If this does not correct the problem, follow the solutions for “A CD or DVD does not work” on page 78.

A CD or DVD does not work
Solutions:
• Ensure that the disc is inserted correctly, with its label up.
• Ensure that the disc you are using is clean. To remove dust or fingerprints, wipe the disc clean with a soft
cloth from the center to the outside. Wiping a disc in a circular motion might cause loss of data.
• Ensure that the disc you are using is not scratched or damaged. Try inserting another disc that you
know is good. If you cannot read from a known-good disc, you might have a problem with your optical
drive or the cabling to your optical drive. Ensure that the power cable and signal cable are securely
connected to the drive.

Unable to use a bootable recovery medium, such as the Product Recovery CD, to
start your computer
Solution: Ensure that the CD or DVD drive is in the startup sequence before the hard disk drive. Refer to
“Selecting or changing the startup device sequence” on page 64 for information on viewing and changing
the startup sequence. Note that on some models the startup sequence is permanently set and cannot
be changed.

DVD problems
This section provides solutions to DVD-related problems.

Black screen instead of DVD video
Solutions:
• Restart the DVD player program.
• Try a lower screen resolution or color depth.
• Close any open files, and then restart the computer.

DVD movie does not play
Solutions:
• Ensure that the disc surface is clean and not scratched.
• Check the disc or package for regional coding. You might need to purchase a disc with coding for
the region where you are using your computer.

No audio or intermittent audio while playing a DVD movie
Solutions:
• Check the volume control settings on your computer and on your speakers.
• Ensure that the disc surface is clean and not scratched.
• Check all cable connections to and from the speakers.
• Use the DVD menu for the video to select a different audio track.

Playback is slow or choppy
Solutions:
• Disable any background programs, such as AntiVirus or Desktop Themes.
• Ensure that video resolution is set to less than 1152 x 864 pixels.

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

Invalid disc or no disc found message
Solutions:
• Ensure that a DVD disc is in the drive with the shiny side of the disc facing down.
• Ensure that video resolution is set to less than 1152 x 864 pixels.
• On computers that have a CD-ROM or CD-RW drive in addition to a DVD-ROM drive, ensure that the
DVD disc is in the drive labeled “DVD”.

Intermittent problems
Some problems occur only occasionally and are difficult to repeat.
Solutions:
• Ensure that all cables and cords are securely connected to the computer and attached devices.
• Ensure that when the computer is on, the fan grill is not blocked (there is air flow around the grill), and the
fans are working. If airflow is blocked or the fans are not working, the computer might overheat.
• If Small Computer System Interface (SCSI) devices are installed, ensure that the last external device in
each SCSI chain is terminated correctly. For more information, see your SCSI documentation.

Hard disk drive problems
Select your symptom from the following list:
•

“Some or all hard disk drives missing from the Setup Utility program” on page 79

•

“"No Operating System Found" message or the system not starting from the correct hard disk drive”
on page 79

Some or all hard disk drives missing from the Setup Utility program
Symptom: Some or all hard disk drives missing from the Setup Utility program
Actions:
• Ensure that all hard disk drive signal cables and power cables are connected correctly.
• Ensure that your computer is configured correctly to support the hard disk drives.
– If your computer is installed with five SATA hard disk drives, ensure that the SATA hard disk drive
enablement module (one to five hard disk drives) is installed.
– If your computer is installed with SAS hard disk drives, ensure that the SAS hard disk drive enablement
module (one to five hard disk drives) or the LSI MegaRAID SAS adapter is installed.
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the diagnostic program Lenovo Solution Center. See
“Lenovo Solution Center” on page 86. If you need technical assistance, see Chapter 12 “Getting information,
help, and service” on page 151.

"No Operating System Found" message or the system not starting from the correct
hard disk drive
Symptom: "No Operating System Found" message or the system not starting from the correct hard disk drive
Actions:
• Ensure that all hard disk drive signal cables and power cables are connected correctly.
• Ensure that the hard disk drive your computer starts from is listed as the first startup device in the Setup
Utility program. Refer to “Selecting a startup device” on page 64.

Chapter 8. Troubleshooting and diagnostics

Note: In rare cases, the hard disk drive with the operating system might get corrupted or damaged. In such
cases, you might need to replace the hard disk drive. Refer to “Replacing the hard disk drive assembly” on
page 134.
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the diagnostic program Lenovo Solution Center. See
“Lenovo Solution Center” on page 86.

Problems with the keyboard or mouse
This section provides solutions to keyboard-related and mouse-related problems.

Keys on the keyboard do not work
Solutions:
• Connect the keyboard cable to a USB connector or PS/2 keyboard connector.
• If you are using a USB keyboard, enable the USB connectors in the BIOS settings. For more information,
see “Enabling or disabling a device” on page 63.
• If you are using an Enhanced Performance USB keyboard, use the help system in the Enhanced
Performance Customization Keyboard program to help diagnose problems.
To open the Enhanced Performance Customization Keyboard program, do one of the following:
– On Windows 7:
1. Click Start ➙ Control Panel.
2. Click Hardware and Sound.
3. Click Devices and Printers.
4. Double-click USB Enhanced Performance Keyboard.
– On Windows 8.1:
1. Open Control Panel. For more information, see “Accessing Control Panel on the Windows 8.1
operating system” on page 49.
2. Click Hardware and Sound.
3. Click Devices and Printers.
4. Double-click USB Enhanced Performance Keyboard.

The mouse does not work
Solutions:
• Connect the mouse cable to a USB connector or PS/2 mouse connector.
Note: Depending on your keyboard, integrated USB connectors might be available to be used to
connect a USB mouse.
• Install the device drivers for the mouse.
• If you are using a USB mouse, enable the USB connectors in the BIOS settings. For more information,
see “Enabling or disabling a device” on page 63.

The pointer on the screen does not move smoothly with the mouse
Solution: Clean the mouse. For more information, see “Optical mouse” on page 73.

The fingerprint reader on the keyboard does not work
Note: The keyboard with fingerprint reader is only available on some models.
Solutions:
80

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

• Enroll your fingerprint correctly.
• Never scratch the surface of the reader with a hard, pointed object.
• Never scrap the surface of the reader with your nail or anything hard.
• Use or touch the reader with a clean finger.
• Ensure that the surface of your finger is the same with the one when you last enrolled.

The wireless keyboard does not work
Solutions:
• If the transceiver communications LED is not on, reconnect the transceiver and the keyboard.
• If the wireless keyboard does not work when the transceiver communications LED is on, restart your
computer.
If the problem persists after the restart, ensure that:
• The batteries are installed correctly.
• The batteries still retain their current.
• The distance from the wireless keyboard to the transceiver is less than 10 m (393.7 inches).
• The transceiver is installed fully.

Monitor problems
This section provides solutions to monitor-related problems.

My screen goes blank while the computer is on
Solutions: Your screen saver or power management might have been enabled. Do one of the following:
• Press a key to exit the screen saver.
• Press the power button to resume the computer from sleep or hibernation mode.

The monitor works when I turn on the computer, but goes blank when I start some
application programs
Solutions:
• Connect the monitor signal cable from your monitor to an appropriate connector on the computer. A
loose cable might cause intermittent problems.
• Install the device drivers for the application programs. Refer to the documentation for the affected
application program to check whether any device drivers are required.

The image appears to be flickering
Solution: Reset the refresh rate.
1. Open Control Panel.
Note: To open Control Panel on Windows 8.1, see “Accessing Control Panel on the Windows 8.1
operating system” on page 49
2. Click Hardware and Sound ➙ Adjust screen resolution ➙ Advanced settings.
3. Click the Monitor tab to reset the refresh rate.
Set the refresh rate to be the highest, noninterlaced refresh rate supported on your computer. Refer to
the documentation that comes with your monitor for the supported refresh rates.

Chapter 8. Troubleshooting and diagnostics

The image is discolored
Solution: The monitor might be affected by interference from nearby equipment. Move fluorescent desk
lighting or any equipment that produces magnetic fields further away from the monitor. If the problem
persists, do the following:
1. Turn off the monitor.
2. Adjust the placement of the monitor and other devices so that they are at least 305 mm (12 inches) apart.
3. Turn on the monitor.

Networking problems
This section provides solutions to networking-related problems.

Ethernet problems
My computer cannot be connected to the network
Solutions:
• Connect the cable from the Ethernet connector to the RJ45 connector of the hub.
• Have the latest device driver installed on your computer.
To check whether you are using the latest device driver, do one of the following:
– On Windows 7:
1. Click Start ➙ Control Panel.
2. Click Hardware and Sound.
3. Click Device Manager. Type the administrator password or provide confirmation if prompted.
4. If an exclamation mark is displayed next to an adapter name under Network adapters, the adapter
driver might not be the latest or is disabled. Right-click the highlighted adapter to update the driver.
5. Click Update Driver Software, and then follow the instructions on the screen.
– On Windows 8.1:
1. Open Control Panel. For more information, see “Accessing Control Panel on the Windows 8.1
operating system” on page 49.
2. Click Hardware and Sound.
3. Click Device Manager. Type the administrator password or provide confirmation if prompted.
4. If an exclamation mark is displayed next to an adapter name under Network adapters, the adapter
driver might not be correct or is disabled. Right-click the highlighted adapter to update the driver.
5. Click Update Driver Software, and then follow the instructions on the screen.
• Set the same duplex for the switch port and the adapter.
If you configured the adapter for full duplex, ensure that the switch port is also configured for full duplex.
Setting the wrong duplex mode might degrade performance, cause data loss, or result in lost connections.
• Install all networking software that is necessary for your network environment.
Check with your LAN administrator for the necessary networking software.
The adapter stops working for no reason
Solution: The network driver files might be corrupt or missing. Update the driver by referring to the “Solution”
description for the previous problem to ensure that the latest device driver is installed.
The Wake On LAN feature is not working
Solution: Enable the Wake On LAN (WOL) feature in the BIOS program.

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

My computer is a Gigabit Ethernet model and I use a speed of 1000 Mbps, but the connection fails
or errors occur
Solution: Connect the network cable to the Ethernet connector using Category 5 wiring and a 100 BASE-T
hub/switch (not 100 BASE-X).
My computer is a Gigabit Ethernet model, but it cannot be connected to the network at 1000 Mbps,
but at only 100 Mbps
Solutions:
• Try another cable.
• Set the link partner to auto-negotiate.
• Set the switch to be 802.3ab-compliant (gigabit over copper).

I cannot connect to a wireless LAN using the built-in wireless networking card
Solutions:
• Install the latest wireless LAN drivers.
• Place your computer within the range of a wireless access point.
• Enable the wireless radio.
• Check Network Name (SSID) and your password.
– On Windows 7:
1. Click Start ➙ Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools ➙ Access Connections.
2. Switch to the Advanced view, and then click the Mobile Hotspot tab to check your SSID and
password.
– On Windows 8.1:
1. Open Control Panel. For more information, see “Accessing Control Panel on the Windows 8.1
operating system” on page 49.
2. Click Network and Internet ➙ Network and Sharing Center to check your SSID and password.

Sound does not come from the Bluetooth headset or headphone but comes from
the local speaker even though the headset or headphone is connected using the
Headset profile or AV profile
Solution:
1. Exit the application that uses the sound device (for example, Windows Media Player).
2. Open Control Panel.
Note: For detailed information on how to open Control Panel on Windows 8.1, see “Accessing Control
Panel on the Windows 8.1 operating system” on page 49.
3. Click Hardware and Sound ➙ Sound.
4. Select the Playback tab.
5. If you are using the Headset profile, select Bluetooth Hands-free Audio, and then click Set Default. If
you are using the AV profile, select Stereo Audio, and then click Set Default.
6. Click OK.
Note: Bluetooth is supported only on some computer models.

Chapter 8. Troubleshooting and diagnostics

I have connected an option to my computer, but it does not work
Solution: Refer to the documentation that comes with the option to ensure that you have connected the
option correctly.

Performance and lockup problems
This section provides solutions to performance-related problems of your computer.

Insufficient free hard disk drive space
Solution: Free up hard disk drive space.
• Method 1
1. Click Start ➙ Computer on Windows 7 or open File Explorer on Windows 8.1.
2. Right-click your C drive entry and then click Properties.
3. Click Disk Cleanup, and then follow the instructions on the screen.
• Method 2
1. Open Control Panel.
Note: For detailed information on how to open Control Panel on Windows 8.1, see “Accessing
Control Panel on the Windows 8.1 operating system” on page 49.
2. Click Programs.
3. Click Turn Windows features on or off, and then follow the instructions on the screen.
• Method 3
1. Click Start ➙ Computer on Windows 7 or open File Explorer on Windows 8.1.
2. Right-click your C drive entry and then click Properties.
3. Click Disk Cleanup.
4. Click Clean up system files.
5. Click the More Options tab.
6. Click Clean up in the Programs and Features area, and then follow the instructions on the screen.
• Clean out your Inbox, Sent Items, and Deleted Items folders from your e-mail application. The folder
names and procedures vary depending on your e-mail application. If you need assistance, see the
help system for your e-mail application.

Excessive number of fragmented files
Solution: Use the Windows disk defragmentation or disk optimization feature to clean up the files.
Note: Depending on the volume of the hard disk drives and amount of data stored on the hard disk drives,
the disk-defragmentation process might take up to several hours.
• On Windows 7:
1. Close any open programs and windows.
2. Click Start ➙ Computer.
3. Right-click your C drive entry and then click Properties.
4. Click Defragment now under the Tools tab to start a disk-defragmentation process.
• On Windows 8.1:
1. Close any open programs and windows.
2. Open File Explorer.
84

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

3. Right-click your C drive entry and then click Properties.
4. Click Optimize under the Tools tab to start a disk-defragmentation process.

Insufficient memory
Solution: Install additional memory modules. For instructions on installing memory modules, see “Replacing
the memory module” on page 129.
To purchase memory modules, go to:
http://www.lenovo.com

The printer does not work
Solutions:
• If you are using IEEE-approved printer signal cables, do the following:
1. Connect the printer signal cable firmly to the correct parallel, serial, or USB connector on the
computer.
2. Load the paper correctly.
3. Turn on the printer and keep the printer online.
• If you are using non-IEEE-approved printer signal cables, do the following:
1. Correctly install device drivers and software that come with the printer.
2. Assign the printer port correctly in your operating system, application program, or BIOS settings. For
more information about BIOS settings, see “Using the Setup Utility program” on page 61.
If the problem persists, run the tests described in the documentation that comes with your printer. If you
cannot correct the problem, have the computer serviced. See Chapter 12 “Getting information, help, and
service” on page 151.

Serial connector cannot be accessed
Solutions:
• Connect the serial cable to the serial connector on the computer and to the serial device. If the serial
device has its own power cord, attach the power cord to a grounded electrical outlet.
• Turn on the serial device and keep the device online.
• Install any application programs supplied with the serial device. Refer to the documentation that comes
with the serial device for more information.
• If you added one serial-connector adapter, install the adapter correctly.

Software problems
This section provides solutions to software-related problems.

When using a sort feature, dates cannot be sorted in the correct order
Solution: Some programs developed before the year 2000 used only the last two digits of a year to sort
dates, assuming the first two digits were 19. Consequently, dates cannot be sorted in the correct order.
Check with your software manufacturer to see if any updates are available. Many software manufacturers
make updates available from the World Wide Web.

Some application programs do not work as expected
Solutions:

Chapter 8. Troubleshooting and diagnostics

• If you are having difficulty with performing a specific task within an application program, refer to the
help system for the program.
• If you are having difficulty with the Windows operating system or one of its components, refer to the
Windows help system.
• Check whether the problems are caused by a newly-installed application program.
1. Ensure that the software is compatible with your computer. Refer to the information supplied with the
software for more information.
2. Verify that other software works correctly on your computer.
3. Verify that the software you are using works on another computer.
• If you received any error messages while using the program, see the printed documentation that comes
with the program or the help system for solutions.
• Check if any updates are available from your manufacturer or Web site. Many software manufacturers
make updates available from the World Wide Web.
• If the software program used to work correctly, but does not work correctly now, uninstall the application
program and reinstall it.

My USB connectors cannot be accessed
Solutions:
• Connect the USB cable from the USB connector to the USB device. If the USB device has its own power
cord, attach the power cord to a grounded electrical outlet.
• Turn on the USB device and keep the device online.
• Install any device drivers or application programs supplied with the USB device. Refer to the
documentation that comes with the USB device for more information.
• Detach and reattach the USB connector to reset the USB device.

Diagnostics
The diagnostic program is used to test hardware components of your computer. The diagnostic program can
also report operating-system-controlled settings that interfere with the correct operation of your computer.
You can use the preinstalled diagnostic program to diagnose computer problems, if your computer is
running the Windows operating system.
Notes:
1. Your computer is preinstalled with the Lenovo Solution Center program for diagnostic purposes. For
more information about the Lenovo Solution Center program, see “Lenovo Solution Center” on page 86.
2. If you are unable to isolate and repair the problem yourself after running the diagnostic program, save
and print the log files created by the diagnostic program. You will need the log files when you speak to a
Lenovo technical support representative.

Lenovo Solution Center
The Lenovo Solution Center program enables you to troubleshoot and resolve computer problems. It
combines diagnostic tests, system information collection, security status, and support information, along
with hints and tips for maximum system performance.
• Your can download the Lenovo Solution Center program from http://www.lenovo.com/diags.
• If you are using a Windows operating system other than Windows 7 or Windows 8.1, go to
http://www.lenovo.com/diags for the latest information on diagnostics for your computer.

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

To run the Lenovo Solution Center program, see “Lenovo programs” on page 39.
Note: If you cannot isolate and repair the problem yourself after running the program, save and print the log
files. You will need the log files when you speak to a Lenovo technical support representative.
For additional information, refer to the Lenovo Solution Center help system.

UEFI diagnostic program
A UEFI diagnostic program is preinstalled on the computer. It enables you to test memory modules and
internal storage devices, view system information, and check and recover bad sectors on internal storage
devices.
To run the UEFI diagnostic program, do the following:
1. Turn on the computer. If the computer cannot be turned on, go to “Basic troubleshooting” on page 75. If
an error code is displayed, go to “Symptom-to-FRU index” on page 90 for error code descriptions and
troubleshooting hints.
2. Repeatedly press and release the F10 key when turning on the computer. The main screen of the
UEFI diagnostic program is displayed.
3. Follow the instructions on the screen to use the diagnostic program.
The options on the main screen are as follows:
Table 2. Items on the main screen of the UEFI diagnostic program
DIAGNOSTICS

TOOLS

• LCD test

• System information

• Memory - Quick test

• Recover bad sectors tool

• Memory - Extended test

• Generate configuration file

• Motherboard test

• Execute from configuration file

• PCI-e test

• Exit application

• Storage - Quick test

Chapter 8. Troubleshooting and diagnostics

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

Chapter 9. Service checkout and symptom-to-FRU index
This chapter provides information about general service checkout and symptom-to-FRU index.

Service checkout
Attention: The drives in the computer you are servicing might have been rearranged or the drive startup
sequence changed. Be extremely careful during write operations such as copying, saving, or formatting.
Data or programs can be overwritten if you select an incorrect drive.
General error messages appear if a problem or conflict is found by an application program, the operating
system, or both. For an explanation of these messages, refer to the information supplied with that software
package.
Before replacing any FRUs, ensure that the latest level of BIOS is installed on the system. A down-level BIOS
might cause false errors and unnecessary replacement of the system board. For more information on how to
determine and obtain the latest level BIOS, see “BIOS levels” on page 67.
Use the following procedure to help determine the cause of the problem:
1. Power-off the computer and all external devices.
2. Check all cables and power cords.
3. Set all display controls to the middle position.
4. Power-on all external devices.
5. Power-on the computer.
• Look for displayed error codes
• Listen for beep codes
• Look for readable instructions or a main menu on the display.
If you did not receive the correct response, proceed to step 6 on page 89.
If you do receive the correct response, proceed to step 7 on page 89.
6. Look at the following conditions and follow the instructions:
• If you hear beep codes during POST, go to “Beep symptoms” on page 91.
• If the computer displays a POST error, go to “POST error codes” on page 91.
• If the computer hangs and no error is displayed, continue at step 7 on page 89.
7. Run the Diagnostic programs. See “Diagnostics” on page 86.
• If you receive an error, replace the part that the diagnostic program calls out.
• If the test stops and you cannot continue, replace the last device tested.

Problem determination tips
Due to the variety of hardware and software combinations that can be encountered, use the following
information to assist you in problem determination. If possible, have this information available when
requesting assistance from Service Support and Engineering functions.
• Machine type and model
• Processor or hard disk drive upgrades
• Failure symptom
– Do diagnostics indicate a failure?

– What, when, where, single, or multiple systems?
– Is the failure repeatable?
– Has this configuration ever worked?
– If it has been working, what changes were made prior to it failing?
– Is this the original reported failure?
• Diagnostics version
– Type and version level
• Hardware configuration
– Print (print screen) configuration currently in use
– BIOS level
• Operating system software
– Type and version level
Notes: To eliminate confusion, identical systems are considered identical only if they:
1. Are the exact machine type and models
2. Have the same BIOS level
3. Have the same adapters/attachments in the same locations
4. Have the same address jumpers/terminators/cabling
5. Have the same software versions and levels
6. Have the same Diagnostic Diskettes (version)
7. Have the same configuration options set in the system
8. Have the same setup for the operating system control files
Comparing the configuration and software set-up between “working and non-working” systems will often
lead to problem resolution.

Symptom-to-FRU index
The Symptom-to-FRU index lists error symptoms and possible causes. The most likely cause is listed first.
Always begin with “Service checkout” on page 89. This index can also be used to help you decide which
FRUs to have available when servicing a computer. If you are unable to correct the problem using this
index, go to “Undetermined problems” on page 94.
Notes:
• The Symptom-to-FRU index is not specific to any machine type and are applicable to all ThinkCentre computers.
• If you have both an error message and an incorrect audio response, diagnose the error message first.
• If you cannot run the diagnostic tests or get a diagnostic error code when running a test, first diagnose the POST
error message you receive.
• If you did not receive any error message, look for a description of your error symptoms in the first part of this index.

Hard disk drive boot error
A hard disk drive boot error can have the following causes.

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

Error

FRU/Action

The start-up drive is not in the boot sequence in
configuration.

Check the configuration and ensure the start-up drive is
in the boot sequence.

No operating system installed on the boot drive.

Install an operating system on the boot drive.

The boot sector on the startup drive is corrupted.

The drive must be formatted. Do the following:
1. Attempt to back up the data on the failing hard disk
drive.
2. Using the operating system programs, format the
hard disk drive.

The drive is defective.

Replace the hard disk drive.

Power supply problems
If you suspect a power problem, use the following procedures.
Check/Verify

FRU/Action

Check the following for proper installation.

Reseat connectors

• Power cord
• On/Off switch connector
• On/Off switch power supply connector
• System board power supply connectors
• Microprocessor(s) connection
Check the power cord for continuity.

Power cord

Check the power-on switch for continuity.

Power-on switch

Beep symptoms
Beep symptoms are tones or a series of tones separated by pauses (intervals without sound) during POST.
The following table describes the beep symptoms.
Beep symptom

FRU/Action

2 short beeps CMOS setting error

Common error code, see the detail failure information in
“POST error codes” on page 91.

3 short and 1 long beeps DRAM memory error

Perform the following actions in order.
1. Make sure the memory module(s) are properly seated
in the connector(s).
2. Replace the memory module(s).
3. Replace the system board.

POST error codes
Each time you power-on the system, it performs a series of tests that check the operation of the system
and some options. This series of tests is called the Power-On Self-Test, or POST. POST does the following
operations.
• Checks some basic system-board operations
• Checks the memory operation

Chapter 9. Service checkout and symptom-to-FRU index

• Starts the video operation
• Verifies that the boot drive is working
If the POST detects a problem, an error message appears on the screen. A single problem can cause several
error messages to appear. When you correct the cause of the first error message, the other error messages
probably will not be displayed next time you turn on the system.
Error code

POST error message

Description/Action

0135

Fan failure

The system might be overheating.
Press F10 to exit.
Note: If the problem is caused by the
microprocessor fan, press F10 will
not solve the problem.

0211

Keyboard not found

When there is no keyboard detected,
the error message will be displayed.

0164

Memory size decreased

Press F10 to exit.

1762

Configuration change has occurred

This error message is displayed when
a hard disk drive or optical drive
change has been made.
Press F10 to exit.

1820

More than one external fingerprint
reader are attached. Power off and
remove all but the reader that you set
up within your main operating system.

If more than one external fingerprint
reader are connected to a computer,
this error message will be displayed.
Remove all of the fingerprint
keyboards except the one compatible
with the fingerprint application on
your computer.

1962

No operating system found. Press
any key to repeat boot sequence.

This error occurs only after the POST
is completed.
Press any key to repeat boot
sequence.

Miscellaneous error conditions
Message/Symptom

FRU/Action

Changing display colors

Display/Monitor

Computer will not power-off. See “Hard disk drive boot
error” on page 90.

1. Power Switch
2. System Board
3. Riser card, if installed.

Computer will not RPL from server

1. Ensure that network is in startup sequence as first
device or first device after diskette.
2. Ensure that network adapter is enabled for RPL.
3. Network adapter (Advise network administrator of
new MAC address)

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

Message/Symptom
Computer will not perform a Wake On

FRU/Action
LAN®

(if applicable)

1. Check power supply and signal cable connections
to network adapter.
2. Ensure that the operating system settings are set to
enable Wake on LAN.
3. Ensure Wake On LAN feature is enabled in
Setup/Configuration (see “Starting the Setup Utility
program” on page 61)
4. Ensure network administrator is using correct MAC
address.
5. Ensure no interrupt or I/O address conflicts.
6. Network adapter (advise network administrator of
new MAC address)

Dead computer. See “Hard disk drive boot error” on page
90.

1. Power Supply

Diskette drive in-use light remains on or does not light
when drive is active.

1. Diskette Drive

2. System Board
2. System Board
3. Diskette Drive Cable

Blank screen except for flashing cursor.

1. System Board
2. Primary Hard Disk Drive
3. Hard Disk Drive Cable

Incorrect memory size during POST

1. Run the Memory tests.
2. Memory Module
3. System Board

"Insert a Diskette" icon appears with a known-good
diagnostics diskette in the first 3.5-inch diskette drive.

1. System Board
2. Diskette Drive Cable
3. Network Adapter

Intensity or color varies from left to right of characters
and color bars

1. Display
2. Video adapter (if present)
3. System Board

No power or fan not running

1. See “Hard disk drive boot error” on page 90.

Non-system disk or disk error-type message with a
known-good diagnostic diskette.

1. Diskette Drive
2. System Board
3. Diskette Drive Cable

Other display symptoms not listed above (including blank
or illegible display)

1. Display

Power-on indicator or hard disk drive in-use light not on,
but computer works correctly

1. Power switch/LED assembly

Printer problems

1. Printer

2. System Board

2. System Board
2. System Board

Chapter 9. Service checkout and symptom-to-FRU index

Message/Symptom
Program loads from the hard disk with a known-good
diagnostics diskette in the first 3.5-inch diskette drive

FRU/Action
1. Run the Setup Utility program and check Startup
sequence.
2. Diskette Drive
3. Diskette Drive Cable
4. System Board
5. Power Supply

RPL computer cannot access programs from its own hard
disk.

1. If network administrator is using LCCM Hybrid RPL,
check startup sequence:
a. First device - network
b. Second device - hard disk
2. Hard disk drive

RPL computer does not RPL from server

1. Check startup sequence.
2. Check the network adapter LED status.

Serial or parallel connector device failure (system board
connector)

1. External Device Self-Test OK?
2. External Device
3. Cable
4. System Board

Serial or parallel connector device failure (adapter
connector)

1. External Device Self-Test OK?
2. External Device
3. Cable
4. Alternate Adapter
5. System Board

Some or all keys on the keyboard do not work

1. Keyboard
2. Keyboard Cable
3. System Board

Undetermined problems
This section provides instructions on how to find out the failing devices or adapters.
1. Power-off the computer.
2. Remove or disconnect the following components (if installed) one at a time.
a. External devices (modem, printer, or mouse)
b. Any adapters
c. Memory modules
d. Extended video memory
e. External Cache
f. External Cache RAM
g. Hard disk drive
h. Diskette drive
3. Power-on the computer to re-test the system.
4. Repeat steps 1 through 3 until you find the failing device or adapter.
If all devices and adapters have been removed, and the problem continues, replace the system board.
See “Replacing the system board” on page 143.

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

Chapter 10. Recovery information
This chapter provides information about the recovery solutions. There are a variety of methods to choose
from when considering how to recover from a software- or hardware-related problem. Some methods
vary depending on the type of operating system that is installed. You can restore the computer settings
using a program or the recovery disc set. For more information about using the recovery disc set, see
the documentation that comes with the disc set.
This chapter contains the following topics:
•

“Recovery information for the Windows 7 operating system” on page 95

•

“Recovery information for the Windows 8.1 operating system” on page 100

Recovery information for the Windows 7 operating system
The recovery information in this section 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 must 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 finishes, the Enhanced Backup and Restore icon is activated.
This section contains the following topics:
•

“Creating and using recovery media” on page 95

•

“Performing backup and recovery operations” on page 96

•

“Creating and using a rescue medium” on page 98

•

“Reinstalling programs and device drivers” on page 98

•

“Solving recovery problems” on page 100

Creating and using recovery media
Recovery media enable you to restore the hard disk drive to the factory-default state and put the computer in
an operational state after all other recovery methods have failed. Recovery media are useful if you transfer
the computer to another area, sell the computer, or recycle the computer. As a precautionary measure, it is
important to create recovery media as early as possible. The data on the recovery media can be used for
the following purposes:
• Reinstall the programs and device drivers on your computer
• Reinstall the operating system
• Modify the data files on the hard disk drive using the Additional Files
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. It is
recommended that you store the recovery media in a safe place after you have made them.

Creating recovery media
Note: On the Windows 7 operating system, you can create recovery media using discs or external USB
storage devices.
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
Attention: When you use recovery media to restore the hard disk drive to the factory-default state, all the
files currently on the hard disk drive will be deleted. These files will be replaced by the factory-default files.
To use recovery media on the Windows 7 operating system, do the following:
1. Depending on the type of your recovery media, connect the boot USB storage device to the computer,
or insert the boot disc into the optical drive.
2. Turn on or restart your computer.
3. When you see the logo screen, repeatedly press and release the F12 key. The Startup Device Menu
window is displayed.
4. Select the desired startup device and press Enter. The restore process begins.
5. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the operation.
Note: After restoring your computer hard disk drive to the factory-default state, you might have to reinstall
device drivers for some devices. See “Reinstalling programs and device drivers” on page 98.

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 store the backup at
the following locations:
• The Rescue and Recovery workspace
• The secondary hard disk drive if a secondary hard disk drive is installed in your computer
• An external USB hard disk drive connected to your computer
• A network drive
• Recordable discs (a recordable optical drive is required for this option)
After you have completed the backup operation, you can restore parts or whole of the data on the hard
disk drive.

Performing a backup operation
To perform a backup operation using the Rescue and Recovery program on the Windows 7 operating
system, do the following:
1. From the Windows desktop, click Start ➙ All Programs ➙ Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools ➙ Enhanced
Backup and Restore. The Rescue and Recovery program opens.
2. In the Rescue and Recovery main window, click the Launch advanced Rescue and Recovery arrow.
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 the following topics:
•

“Performing a recovery operation from Windows 7” on page 97

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

•

“Performing a recovery operation from the Rescue and Recovery workspace” on page 97

Performing a recovery operation from Windows 7
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.
Performing a recovery operation from the Rescue and Recovery workspace
The Rescue and Recovery workspace resides in a protected and hidden area of your hard disk drive that
operates independently from the Windows operating system. The Rescue and Recovery workspace 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:
You can 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 also can rescue individual files from
a Rescue and Recovery backup located on your local hard disk drive, a USB device, or a network drive.
• Restore your hard disk drive from a Rescue and Recovery backup:
If you have backed up your hard disk drive using the Rescue and Recovery program, you can restore the
hard disk drive from a Rescue and Recovery backup, even if you cannot start the Windows operating
system.
• Restore your hard disk drive to the factory-default state:
You can restore the complete contents of your hard disk drive to the factory-default state even if you
cannot start the Windows operating system. If you have multiple partitions on your hard disk drive, you
have the option to restore the C: partition and leave the other partitions intact.
Attention: You can restore the hard disk drive from a Rescue and Recovery backup or restore the hard disk
drive to the factory-default settings. During either process, all files on the primary hard disk drive partition
(usually drive C:) will be deleted. If possible, make copies of important files. If you cannot 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 perform a recovery operation from the Rescue and Recovery workspace, do the following:
1. Turn on or restart your computer.
2. When you see the logo screen, press Enter, and then press F11 to enter the Rescue and Recovery
workspace.
3. If you have set a Rescue and Recovery password, enter 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 100.
4. Do one of the following:
• To rescue files from your hard disk drive, click Rescue files and follow the instructions on the screen.
• To restore your hard disk drive from a Rescue and Recovery backup or to restore your hard disk drive
to the factory-default state, click Full Restore and follow the on-screen instructions.

Chapter 10. Recovery information

Note: After restoring your computer hard disk drive to the factory-default state, you might have to
reinstall device drivers for some devices. See “Reinstalling programs and device drivers” on page 98.
For more information about the features of the Rescue and Recovery workspace, click Help.

Creating and using a rescue medium
Create rescue media using discs or USB storage devices as early as possible. You can use a rescue medium
to recover from failures that prevent you from gaining access to the Windows environment or the Rescue
and Recovery workspace on your hard disk drive.
Notes:
• The recovery operations you can perform using a rescue medium vary depending on the operating system.
• The rescue disc can be started in all types of optical drives.

Creating a rescue medium
To create a rescue medium on the Windows 7 operating system, do the following:
1. From the Windows desktop, click Start ➙ All Programs ➙ Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools ➙ Enhanced
Backup and Restore. The Rescue and Recovery program opens.
2. In the Rescue and Recovery main window, click the Launch advanced Rescue and Recovery arrow.
3. Click the Create Rescue Media icon. The “Create Rescue and Recovery Media” window opens.
4. In the Rescue Media area, select the type of the rescue medium you want to create. You can create a
rescue medium using a disc, a USB storage device with sufficient capacity, 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
Depending on whether you have created a rescue medium using a disc or a USB hard disk drive, do one
of the following:
• If you have created a rescue medium using a disc, do the following:
1. Turn on or restart your computer.
2. When you see the logo screen, repeatedly press and release the F12 key. The Startup Device Menu
window is displayed.
3. 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, do the following:
1. Connect the USB hard disk drive to one of the USB connectors on your computer.
2. Turn on or restart your computer.
3. When you see the logo screen, repeatedly press and release the F12 key. The Startup Device Menu
window is displayed.
4. Select the USB hard disk drive as the first boot device and press Enter. The rescue medium starts.
When the rescue medium starts, the Rescue and Recovery workspace opens. The help information for
each feature is available from the Rescue and Recovery workspace. Follow the instructions to complete
the recovery process.

Reinstalling programs and device drivers
This section provides the following items:

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

•

“Reinstalling preinstalled programs and device drivers” on page 99

•

“Reinstalling programs and device drivers that are not preinstalled” on page 99

Reinstalling preinstalled programs and device drivers
Your computer enables you to reinstall preinstalled programs and device drivers.
Reinstalling preinstalled programs
To reinstall programs preinstalled on your Lenovo computer, do the following:
1. Turn on the computer.
2. Go to C:\SWTOOLS.
3. Open the apps folder and locate the subfolder that is named after the program preinstalled on your
computer.
4. Open the subfolder and locate the EXE file.
5. Double-click the EXE file and follow the instructions on the screen to complete the installation.
Reinstalling preinstalled device drivers
Attention: Reinstalling device drivers will change the current configuration of your computer. Reinstall
device drivers only when it is necessary to correct a problem with your computer.
To reinstall the device driver for a factory-installed device, do the following:
1. Turn on the computer.
2. Go to C:\SWTOOLS.
3. Open the DRIVERS folder and locate the subfolder that is named after the factory-installed device in
your computer, such as AUDIO or VIDEO.
4. Open the subfolder.
5. Do one of the following:
• Locate the EXE file. Double-click the EXE file and follow the instructions on the screen to complete
the installation.
• Locate the readme file with the .txt extension. The device driver installation information is included in
the readme file. Follow the instructions to complete the installation.
• If the device subfolder contains an INF file and you want to install the device driver using the INF file,
see the Windows Help and Support information system for detailed information.
Note: For more information about the latest device drivers, see “Getting the latest device drivers for your
computer” on page 71.

Reinstalling programs and device drivers that are not preinstalled
Your computer enables you to reinstall programs and device drivers that are not preinstalled.
Reinstalling programs that are not preinstalled
If a software program you installed on your computer is not working correctly, you might need to uninstall
and then reinstall it. Reinstalling a program overwrites the existing program files and usually fixes any
problems that you might have had with the program.
To uninstall a program from your system, refer to the Microsoft Windows help system.
To reinstall most commercially available programs on your system, refer to the Microsoft Windows help
system together with the documentation provided with the program.

Chapter 10. Recovery information

Reinstalling device drivers that are not preinstalled
To reinstall a device driver for an option you installed, refer to the documentation that comes with the option.
Note: Reinstall device drivers will change the current configuration of your computer. Reinstall device drivers
only when it is necessary to correct a problem with your computer.

Solving recovery problems
Note: Ensure 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 64 for detailed information about
temporarily or permanently changing the startup device sequence. For more information about the Setup
Utility program, see “Using the Setup Utility program” on page 61.
If you cannot access the Rescue and Recovery workspace or the Windows environment, do one of the
following:
• Use a rescue medium to start the Rescue and Recovery workspace. See “Creating and using a rescue
medium” on page 98.
• Use recovery media if all other methods of recovery have failed and you must restore the hard disk drive
to the factory-default settings. See “Creating and using recovery media” on page 95.
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.

Recovery information for the Windows 8.1 operating system
This section contains the following topics:
•

“Refreshing your computer” on page 100

•

“Resetting your computer to the factory-default settings” on page 100

•

“Using the advanced startup options” on page 101

•

“Recovering your operating system if Windows 8.1 fails to start” on page 101

Refreshing your computer
If your computer does not perform well and the problem might be caused by a recently installed program,
you can refresh your computer.
Attention: If you refresh your computer, the programs preinstalled on your computer and the programs that
you installed from Windows Store will be reinstalled. However, all other programs will be uninstalled.
To refresh your computer, do the following:
1. Move the pointer to the top-right or bottom-right corner of the screen to display the charms. Click
Settings ➙ Change PC settings ➙ Update and recovery ➙ Recovery.
2. In the Refresh your PC without affecting your files section, click Get started.

Resetting your computer to the factory-default settings
You can reset your computer to the factory-default settings. Resetting the computer will reinstall the
operating system and all the programs that come with your computer.
Attention: If you reset your computer, all your personal files and settings will be deleted. To avoid data loss,
make a backup copy of all the data that you want to keep.
To reset your computer, do the following:
100

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

1. Move the pointer to the top-right or bottom-right corner of the screen to display the charms. Click
Settings ➙ Change PC settings ➙ Update and recovery ➙ Recovery.
2. In the Remove everything and reinstall Windows section, click Get started.

Using the advanced startup options
Advanced startup options enable you to change the startup settings of your Windows operating system,
start the computer from an external device, or restore the Windows operating system from a system image.
To use the advanced startup options, do the following:
1. Move the pointer to the top-right or bottom-right corner of the screen to display the charms. Click
Settings ➙ Change PC settings ➙ Update and recovery ➙ Recovery.
2. In the Advanced startup section, click Restart now ➙ Troubleshoot ➙ Advanced options.
3. Restart your computer following the instructions on the screen.

Recovering your operating system if Windows 8.1 fails to start
The Windows recovery environment on your computer is capable of operating independently from the
Windows 8.1 operating system. It enables you to recover or repair the operating system even if the Windows
8.1 operating system fails to start.
After two consecutive failed boot attempts, the Windows recovery environment starts automatically. Then
you can choose repair and recovery options by following the instructions on the screen.
Note: Ensure that your computer is connected to ac power during the recovery process.
For more details about the recovery solutions provided on computers preinstalled with the Windows 8.1
operating system, refer to the help information system of the Windows 8.1 operating system.

Chapter 10. Recovery information

101

102

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

Chapter 11. Installing or replacing hardware
This chapter provides instructions on how to install or replace hardware for your computer.

Handling static-sensitive devices
Do not open the static-protective package containing the new part until the defective part has been removed
and you are ready to install the new part. Static electricity, although harmless to you, can seriously damage
computer components and parts.
When you handle parts and other computer components, take these precautions to avoid static-electricity
damage:
• Limit your movement. Movement can cause static electricity to build up around you.
• Always handle parts and other computer components carefully. Handle PCI cards, memory modules,
system boards, and microprocessors by the edges. Never touch any exposed circuitry.
• Prevent others from touching the parts and other computer components.
• Touch the static-protective package containing the part to a metal expansion-slot cover or other
unpainted metal surface on the computer for at least two seconds. This reduces static electricity from
the package and your body before you install or replace a new part.
• When possible, remove the new part from the static-protective package, and install it directly in the
computer without setting the part down. When this is not possible, place the static-protective package
that the part came in on a smooth, level surface and place the part on the 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 and maintain your computer by installing or replacing hardware.
Attention: Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the Chapter
1 “Read this first: Important safety information” on page 1.
Notes:
• For machine types 10DV, 10DW, 10DX, 10DY, you must install your computer on the matched monitor.
Therefore, the steps of installing some parts might be different from the steps in the chapter. For more
information, refer to the user guide in the CD that comes with the monitor.
• Use only computer parts provided by Lenovo.
• When installing or replacing an option, use the appropriate instructions in this section along with the
instructions that come with the option.

Installing external options
You can connect external options to your computer, such as external speakers, a printer, or a scanner. For
some external options, you must install additional software in addition to making the physical connection.
When installing an external option, see “Locating connectors, controls, and indicators on the front of your
computer” on page 28 and “Locating connectors on the rear of your computer” on page 29 to identify the
required connector. Use the instructions shipped with the option to help you make the connection and install
any software or device drivers that are required for the option.

103

Installing and removing the ac power adapter bracket
Attention: Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the Chapter
1 “Read this first: Important safety information” on page 1.
Note: The ac power adapter bracket is installed on the Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA)
mount bracket. The ac power adapter bracket and the VESA mount bracket are only available on some
models.
To install the ac power adapter bracket, do the following:
1. Slide the ac power adapter into the ac power adapter bracket. Ensure the ac power adapter is secured
by the bracket.

2. Align the two tabs on the ac power adapter bracket with the slots in the VESA mount bracket. Then,
slide the ac power adapter bracket as shown to install it on the VESA mount bracket.

Figure 8. Installing the ac power adapter bracket

To remove the ac power adapter bracket, 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.

104

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

2. Pull the tab 1 and then slide the ac power adapter bracket as shown to remove it from the VESA
mount bracket.

Figure 9. Removing the ac power adapter bracket

3. Remove the ac power adapter from the ac power adapter bracket.

Installing and removing the ac power adapter
Attention: Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the Chapter
1 “Read this first: Important safety information” on page 1.
To install the ac power adapter, do the following:

Chapter 11. Installing or replacing hardware

105

1. Connect the ac power adapter to the ac power adapter connector at the rear of your computer and a
workable electrical outlet. Then, secure the power cord into the power adapter cable loop at the rear
of the computer as shown.

Figure 10. Installing the ac power adapter

2. If the ac power adapter bracket is available, install the ac power adapter bracket. See “Installing and
removing the ac power adapter bracket” on page 104.
To remove the ac power adapter, do the following:
1. Remove all media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer. Then, disconnect
all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables that are connected to the computer.
2. If the ac power adapter bracket is available, remove the ac power adapter bracket. See “Installing and
removing the ac power adapter bracket” on page 104.

106

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

3. Remove the power cord from the ac power adapter cable loop at the rear of the computer and then
disconnect the ac power adapter from the computer.

Figure 11. Removing the ac power adapter

Installing and removing the vertical stand
Attention: Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the Chapter
1 “Read this first: Important safety information” on page 1.
Note: The vertical stand and VESA mount bracket are only available on some models. If your computer
comes with the VESA mount bracket installed, ensure that you remove the VESA mount bracket before
you install the vertical stand. To remove the VESA mount bracket, see “Installing and removing the VESA
mount bracket” on page 109.
To install the vertical stand, 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.

Chapter 11. Installing or replacing hardware

107

2. Align the rear of the computer with the rear of the vertical stand and position the computer on the
vertical stand as shown.

Figure 12. Installing the vertical stand

To remove the vertical stand, 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.

108

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

2. Lift the computer to remove it from the vertical stand.

Figure 13. Removing the computer from the vertical stand

Installing and removing the VESA mount bracket
Attention: Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the Chapter
1 “Read this first: Important safety information” on page 1.
Note: The VESA mount bracket is only available on some models.
To install the VESA mount bracket, 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.

Chapter 11. Installing or replacing hardware

109

2. Slide the computer into the VESA mount bracket.

Figure 14. Installing the VESA mount bracket

3. Install the two screws to secure the VESA mount bracket to the computer.

Figure 15. Installing the screws that secure the VESA mount bracket

4. If the ac power adapter bracket is available, install the ac power adapter bracket. See “Installing and
removing the ac power adapter bracket” on page 104.
To remove the VESA mount bracket, do the following:
1. Remove all media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer. Then, disconnect
all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables that are connected to the computer.
2. If the ac power adapter bracket is available, remove the ac power adapter bracket. See “Installing and
removing the ac power adapter bracket” on page 104.

110

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

3. Remove the two screws that secure the VESA mount bracket to the computer.

Figure 16. Removing the screws that secure the VESA mount bracket

4. Slide the computer from the front of the VESA mount bracket to remove the VESA mount bracket
from the computer.

Figure 17. Removing the VESA mount bracket

Installing or replacing the external optical drive
Attention: Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the Chapter
1 “Read this first: Important safety information” on page 1.
Note: The external optical drive is only available on some models.
To install or replace the external 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.

Chapter 11. Installing or replacing hardware

111

2. If you are replacing the external optical drive, disconnect the external optical drive cable from the USB
connector on the computer.

3. Remove the screw that secures the external optical drive box on the VESA mount bracket and then slide
the external optical drive box to remove it from the VESA mount bracket.

Figure 18. Removing the external optical drive box

112

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

4. Remove the screw that secures the external optical drive in the external optical drive box. Use the
screwdriver to slide the external optical drive forward and then remove the external optical drive from
the external optical drive box.

Figure 19. Removing the external optical drive from the external optical drive box

5. Remove the two screws that secure the external optical drive metal plate and then remove the metal
plate from the external optical drive.

Figure 20. Removing the external optical drive metal plate

Chapter 11. Installing or replacing hardware

113

6. Align the two screw holes in the external optical drive metal plate with the corresponding holes in
the new external optical drive and then install the two screws to secure the metal plate on the new
external optical drive.

Figure 21. Installing the external optical drive metal plate

7. Slide the new external optical drive into the external optical drive box until it snaps into position.

Figure 22. Installing the external optical drive into the external optical drive box

114

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

8. Install the screw that secures the external optical drive in the external optical drive box.

Figure 23. Installing the screw that secures the external optical drive

Chapter 11. Installing or replacing hardware

115

9. Align the screw holes in the external optical drive box with the two screws on the VESA mount bracket
and then slide the external optical drive box to install it on the VESA mount bracket.

Figure 24. Installing the external optical drive box

116

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

10. Install the screw that secures the external optical drive box on the VESA mount bracket.

Figure 25. Installing the screw that secures the external optical drive box

11. Connect the external optical drive cable to a USB connector on the computer. See “Locating connectors
on the rear of your computer” on page 29.

Installing or replacing the external hard disk drive
Attention: Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the Chapter
1 “Read this first: Important safety information” on page 1.
Notes:
• The external hard disk drive, external hybrid drive, and external solid-state drive are only available on
some models.
• To install or replace the external hybrid drive or external solid-state drive, follow the steps of installing or
replacing the external hard disk drive.
To install or replace the external 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.
2. If you are replacing the external hard disk drive, disconnect the external hard disk drive cable from
the USB connector on the computer.

Chapter 11. Installing or replacing hardware

117

3. Remove the screw that secures the optical drive box on the VESA mount bracket and then slide the
optical drive box as shown to remove it from the VESA mount bracket.

Figure 26. Removing the optical drive box

4. Slide the release button on the optical drive box and then remove the external hard disk drive adapter
from the optical drive box.

Figure 27. Removing the external hard disk drive adapter from the optical drive box

118

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

5. Flex the sides of the external hard disk drive adapter bracket and then pivot the external hard disk drive
adapter to remove the adapter from the adapter bracket.

Figure 28. Removing the external hard disk drive adapter from the adapter bracket

6. To remove the external hard disk drive from the adapter, lift the adapter retaining latch. Slide the external
hard disk drive towards the retaining latch and then lift the external hard disk drive out of the adapter.

Figure 29. Removing the external hard disk drive from the adapter

7. Install the four screws to the new external hard disk drive.

Figure 30. Installing the four screws to the external hard disk drive

Chapter 11. Installing or replacing hardware

119

8. Install the new external hard disk drive into the adapter as shown. Then, lower the adapter retaining
latch until it snaps into position.

Figure 31. Installing a new external hard disk drive into the adapter

9. Position the adapter into the adapter bracket and then pivot the adapter downward until it snaps into
position.

Figure 32. Installing the external hard disk drive adapter into the adapter bracket

120

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

10. Slide the adapter bracket into the optical drive box until it snaps into position.

Figure 33. Installing the adapter bracket into the optical drive box

Chapter 11. Installing or replacing hardware

121

11. Align the screw holes in the optical drive box with the two screws on the VESA mount bracket and then
slide the optical drive box to install it on the VESA mount bracket.

Figure 34. Installing the optical drive box

122

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

12. Install the screw that secures the optical drive box on the VESA mount bracket.

Figure 35. Installing the screw that secures the optical drive box

13. Connect the external hard disk drive cable to a USB connector on the computer. See “Locating
connectors on the rear of your computer” on page 29.

Removing the computer cover
Attention: Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the Chapter
1 “Read this first: Important safety information” on page 1.
CAUTION:
Before you open the computer cover, turn off the computer and wait several minutes until the
computer is cool.
To remove the computer cover, do the following:
1. Remove all media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer. Then, disconnect
all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables that are connected to the computer.
2. Remove any locking device that secures the computer cover, such as a Kensington-style cable lock.
See “Attaching a Kensington-style cable lock” on page 57.

Chapter 11. Installing or replacing hardware

123

3. Remove the screw that secures the computer cover.

Figure 36. Removing the computer cover screw

124

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

4. Slide the computer cover to the front of the computer a small amount. Then, lift the computer cover to
remove it from the computer.

Figure 37. Removing the computer cover

Replacing the microprocessor fan
Attention: Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the Chapter
1 “Read this first: Important safety information” on page 1.

Chapter 11. Installing or replacing hardware

125

CAUTION:
Hazardous moving parts. Keep fingers and other body parts away.

To replace the microprocessor fan, do the following:
1. Remove all media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer. Then, disconnect
all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables that are connected to the computer.
2. Remove the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 123.
3. Disconnect the microprocessor fan cable from the system board.
4. Remove the four screws that secure the microprocessor fan, and then remove the microprocessor fan
as shown.

Figure 38. Removing the microprocessor fan

126

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

5. Position the new microprocessor fan as shown, and align the four screw holes in the microprocessor
fan with the corresponding mounting studs on the system board. Then, install the four screws to
secure the microprocessor fan to the chassis.

Figure 39. Installing the microprocessor fan

6. Connect the cable of the new microprocessor fan to the microprocessor fan connector on the system
board. See “Locating parts on the system board” on page 34.
What to do next:
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.
• To complete the installation or replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 147.

Replacing the heat sink
Attention: Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the Chapter
1 “Read this first: Important safety information” on page 1.
CAUTION:
The heat sink might be very hot. Before you open the computer cover, turn off the computer and
wait several minutes until the computer is cool.
To replace the heat sink, do the following:
1. Remove all media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer. Then, disconnect
all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables that are connected to the computer.
2. Remove the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 123.

Chapter 11. Installing or replacing hardware

127

3. With a tool (such as a screwdriver), carefully press the hook 1 to disengage the hook from the circle
clip 2 on the system board. Then, disengage the other hook on the heat sink from the corresponding
circle clip. Remove the heat sink from the chassis.

Figure 40. Removing the heat sink

4. Insert the hook 1 on the new heat sink into the circle clip 2 on the system board. Then, use the tool
you used in step 3 to insert the other hook on the heat sink into the corresponding circle clip.

Figure 41. Installing the heat sink

What to do next:
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.

128

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

• To complete the installation or replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 147.

Replacing the memory module
Attention: Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the Chapter
1 “Read this first: Important safety information” on page 1.
To replace the 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.
2. Remove the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 123.
3. Locate the memory slot. See “Locating parts on the system board” on page 34.
4. Open the retaining clips and gently pull the memory module out of the memory slot.

Figure 42. Removing the memory module

5. Insert the notched end 2 of the new memory module into the slot 1 . Press the memory module
firmly and pivot the memory module until it snaps into place. Make sure that the memory module is
secured in the slot and does not move easily.

Figure 43. Installing the memory module

What to do next:
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.
• To complete the installation or replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 147.

Chapter 11. Installing or replacing hardware

129

Installing or replacing the cover presence switch
Attention: Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the Chapter
1 “Read this first: Important safety information” on page 1.
Note: The cover presence switch is only available in some models.
To install or replace the cover presence switch, do the following:
1. Remove all media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer. Then, disconnect
all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables that are connected to the computer.
2. Remove the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 123.
3. If you are replacing the cover presence switch, disconnect the cover-presence-switch cable from the
system board. Then, lift the cover presence switch out of the holder.

Figure 44. Removing the cover presence switch

4. Insert the new cover presence switch into place as shown.

Figure 45. Installing the cover presence switch

5. Connect the cable of the new cover presence switch to the cover-presence-switch connector on the
system board. See “Locating parts on the system board” on page 34.
What to do next:
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.

130

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

• To complete the installation or replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 147.

Replacing the internal speaker
Attention: Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the Chapter
1 “Read this first: Important safety information” on page 1.
To replace the internal speaker, do the following:
1. Remove all media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer. Then, disconnect
all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables that are connected to the computer.
2. Remove the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 123.
3. Disconnect the internal speaker cable from the system board.
4. Press the tab 1 that secures the internal speaker as shown, and then lift the internal speaker out of
the internal speaker holder.

Figure 46. Removing the internal speaker

Chapter 11. Installing or replacing hardware

131

5. Insert the new internal speaker into the internal speaker holder until the new internal speaker snaps into
position and is secured by the tab 1 .

Figure 47. Installing the internal speaker

6. Secure the cable of the new internal speaker in the retaining clip on the side of the internal speaker
holder as shown.

Figure 48. Securing the internal speaker cable

7. Connect the cable of the new internal speaker to the internal speaker connector on the system board.
See “Locating parts on the system board” on page 34.

132

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

What to do next:
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.
• To complete the installation or replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 147.

Replacing the power button board
Attention: Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the Chapter
1 “Read this first: Important safety information” on page 1.
To replace the power button board, do the following:
1. Remove all media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer. Then, disconnect
all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables that are connected to the computer.
2. Remove the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 123.
3. Remove the hard disk drive assembly. See “Replacing the hard disk drive assembly” on page 134.
4. Disconnect the power button board cable from the corresponding connector on the system board.
5. Remove the screw that secures the power button board to the computer, and then pull the power
button board to remove it from the computer.

Figure 49. Removing the power button board

Chapter 11. Installing or replacing hardware

133

6. Align the hole 1 in the new power button board with the tab 2 on the computer and position the new
power button board in the computer. Then, install the screw to secure the new power button board
on the chassis.

Figure 50. Installing the power button board

7. Connect the power button board cable to the power button board cable connector on the system board.
See “Locating parts on the system board” on page 34.
8. Reinstall the hard disk drive assembly. See “Replacing the hard disk drive assembly” on page 134.
What to do next:
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.
• To complete the installation or replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 147.

Replacing the hard disk drive assembly
Attention: Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the Chapter
1 “Read this first: Important safety information” on page 1.
Notes:
• The hybrid drive assembly and solid-state drive assembly are only available on some models.
• To replace the hybrid drive assembly or solid-state drive assembly, follow the steps of replacing the
hard disk drive assembly.
To replace the hard disk drive 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.

134

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

2. Remove the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 123.
3. Disconnect the signal cable and the power cable from the hard disk drive assembly.
4. Remove the two screws that secure the hard disk drive assembly. Slide the hard disk drive assembly as
shown, and then lift the hard disk drive assembly to remove it from the computer.

Figure 51. Removing the hard disk drive assembly

5. Position the new hard disk drive assembly on the system board so that the two holes in the hard
disk drive assembly are aligned with the standoffs on the system board. Slide the hard disk drive
assembly as shown until the two screw holes 1 are aligned with the corresponding mounting studs
on the system board.

Figure 52. Installing the hard disk drive assembly
Chapter 11. Installing or replacing hardware

135

6. Install the two screws to secure the hard disk drive assembly.

Figure 53. Installing the screws to secure the hard disk drive assembly

7. Connect the signal cable and the power cable to the hard disk drive assembly.
What to do next:
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.
• To complete the installation or replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 147.

Replacing the coin-cell battery
Attention: Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the Chapter
1 “Read this first: Important safety information” on page 1.
Your computer has a special type of memory that maintains the date, time, and settings for built-in features,
such as parallel-connector assignments (configuration). A coin-cell battery keeps this information active
when you turn off the computer.
The coin-cell battery normally requires no charging or maintenance throughout its life; however, no coin-cell
battery lasts forever. If the coin-cell battery fails, the date, time, and configuration information (including
passwords) are lost. An error message is displayed when you turn on the computer.
Refer to the “Lithium coin cell coin-cell battery notice” in the Safety, Warranty, and Setup Guide for
information about replacing and disposing of the coin-cell battery.
To replace the coin-cell 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.
2. Remove the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 123.
3. Remove the hard disk drive assembly to get access to the coin-cell battery. See “Replacing the hard
disk drive assembly” on page 134.

136

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

4. Remove the old coin-cell battery.

Figure 54. Removing the old coin-cell battery

5. Install a new coin-cell battery.

Figure 55. Installing a new coin-cell battery

6. Reinstall the hard disk drive assembly. See “Replacing the hard disk drive assembly” on page 134.
7. Reinstall the computer cover and connect the cables. See “Completing the parts replacement” on
page 147.
Note: When the computer is turned on for the first time after replacing the coin-cell battery, an error
message might be displayed. This is normal after replacing the coin-cell battery.
8. Turn on the computer and all attached devices.
9. Use the Setup Utility program to set the date, time, and any passwords. See “Using the Setup Utility
program” on page 61.

Installing or replacing the Wi-Fi card module
Attention: Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the Chapter
1 “Read this first: Important safety information” on page 1.
Note: The Wi-Fi card module is only available in some models.
To install or replace the Wi-Fi card 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.
2. Remove the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 123.
3. Remove the hard disk drive assembly. See “Replacing the hard disk drive assembly” on page 134.
4. Locate the Mini PCI Express card slot. See “Locating parts on the system board” on page 34.

Chapter 11. Installing or replacing hardware

137

5. If you are replacing the Wi-Fi card module, disconnect the Wi-Fi antenna cables from the Wi-Fi card
module.

Figure 56. Removing the Wi-Fi card module cables

6. Carefully pivot the Wi-Fi card module up to release it from the plastic post that secures it. Then, pull the
Wi-Fi card module to remove it from the Mini PCI Express card slot.
Note: Do not over pivot the Wi-Fi card module.

Figure 57. Removing the Wi-Fi card module

7. Insert the new Wi-Fi card module into the Mini PCI Express card slot. Then, pivot the Wi-Fi card module
downward until it snaps into position and is secured by the plastic post.
Note: Do not touch the notched edge of the Wi-Fi card module.

Figure 58. Installing the Wi-Fi card module

8. Connect the Wi-Fi antenna cables to the Wi-Fi card module.

Figure 59. Connecting the Wi-Fi antenna cables

9. Reinstall the hard disk drive assembly. See “Replacing the hard disk drive assembly” on page 134.
What to do next:
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.

138

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

• To complete the installation or replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 147.

Installing and removing the front Wi-Fi antenna
Attention: Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the Chapter
1 “Read this first: Important safety information” on page 1.
Note: The front Wi-Fi antenna is only available on some models.
To install the front Wi-Fi antenna, do the following:
1. Remove all media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer. Then, disconnect
all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables that are connected to the computer.
2. Remove the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 123.
3. Remove the hard disk drive assembly. See “Replacing the hard disk drive assembly” on page 134.
4. Peel off the paper that protects the sticker on the bottom of the front Wi-Fi antenna.

Figure 60. Peeling off the paper that protects the sticker

5. Align the two small columns on the bottom of the front Wi-Fi antenna with the two holes in the hard disk
drive bracket as shown. Then, stick the front Wi-Fi antenna onto the hard disk drive bracket.

Figure 61. Sticking the front Wi-Fi antenna

Chapter 11. Installing or replacing hardware

139

6. Route the front Wi-Fi antenna cable through the five hooks in the hard disk drive bracket as shown.

Figure 62. Routing the front Wi-Fi antenna cable

7. Reinstall the hard disk drive assembly without connecting the signal cable and power cable. See
“Replacing the hard disk drive assembly” on page 134.
8. Route the front Wi-Fi antenna cable as shown, and then connect it to the Wi-Fi card module.

Figure 63. Installing the front Wi-Fi antenna cable

9. Reconnect the signal cable and power cable to the hard disk drive.
To remove the rear Wi-Fi antenna, do the following:
1. Remove all media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer. Then, disconnect
all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables that are connected to the computer.
2. Disconnect the signal cable and power cable from the hard disk drive.
3. Disconnect the front Wi-Fi antenna cable from the Wi-Fi card module.
4. Remove the hard disk drive assembly. See “Replacing the hard disk drive assembly” on page 134.

140

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

5. Release the front Wi-Fi antenna cable from the hooks on the hard disk drive bracket. Then, unstick the
front Wi-Fi antenna from the hard disk drive bracket.

Figure 64. Removing the front Wi-Fi antenna cable

What to do next:
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.
• To complete the installation or replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 147.

Installing and removing the rear Wi-Fi antenna
Attention: Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the Chapter
1 “Read this first: Important safety information” on page 1.
Note: The rear Wi-Fi antenna is only available on some models.
To install the rear Wi-Fi antenna, do the following:
1. Remove all media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer. Then, disconnect
all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables that are connected to the computer.
2. Install the rear Wi-Fi antenna to the rear Wi-Fi antenna cable connector attached on the rear of the
computer.

Chapter 11. Installing or replacing hardware

141

3. Adjust the angle of the rear antenna to lower the risk of breaking the antenna by accident.

Figure 65. Installing the rear Wi-Fi antenna

To remove the rear Wi-Fi antenna, do the following:
1. Remove all media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer. Then, disconnect
all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables that are connected to the computer.
2. Straighten the rear Wi-Fi antenna so that it can be more easily twisted.
3. Hold the thicker end of the rear Wi-Fi antenna and unscrew the Wi-Fi antenna from the rear of the
computer.

Figure 66. Removing the rear Wi-Fi antenna

What to do next:
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.
• To complete the installation or replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 147.

142

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

Replacing the system board
Attention: Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the Chapter
1 “Read this first: Important safety information” on page 1.
Note: Each computer has a unique Vital Product Data (VPD) code stored in the nonvolatile memory on the
system board. After you replace the system board, the VPD must be updated. To update the VPD, see
“Updating or recovering the BIOS” on page 66.
To replace the system board, do the following:
1. Remove all media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer. Then, disconnect
all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables that are connected to the computer.
2. Remove the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 123.
3. Remove the microprocessor fan. See “Replacing the microprocessor fan” on page 125.
4. Remove the memory module. See “Replacing the memory module” on page 129.
5. If the cover presence switch is available, remove it. See “Installing or replacing the cover presence
switch” on page 130.
6. Remove the power button board. See “Replacing the power button board” on page 133.
7. Remove the hard disk drive assembly. See “Replacing the hard disk drive assembly” on page 134.
8. If the Wi-Fi card module is available, remove it. See “Installing or replacing the Wi-Fi card module” on
page 137.
9. If the front Wi-Fi antenna is available, remove it. See “Installing and removing the front Wi-Fi antenna”
on page 139.
10. If the rear Wi-Fi antenna is available, remove it. See “Installing and removing the rear Wi-Fi antenna” on
page 141.
11. Remove the internal speaker. See “Replacing the internal speaker” on page 131.
12. Remove the two screws that secure the internal speaker holder as shown. Then, remove the internal
speaker holder from the chassis.

Figure 67. Removing the internal speaker holder

13. Record the cable routing and cable connections, and then disconnect all cables from the system board.

Chapter 11. Installing or replacing hardware

143

14. Remove the five screws that secure the system board, and then carefully move the system board
from the chassis.
Note: Carefully handle the system board by its edges.

Figure 68. Removing the system board

144

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

15. Install the new system board into place by aligning the five screw holes in the new system board with the
corresponding mounting studs on the chassis. Then, install the five screws to secure the system board.

Figure 69. Installing the system board

16. Align the two screw holes in the internal speaker holder with the corresponding mounting studs on the
system board. Then, install the two screws to secure the internal speaker holder.

Figure 70. Installing the internal speaker holder

Chapter 11. Installing or replacing hardware

145

17. Reinstall the internal speaker. See “Replacing the internal speaker” on page 131.
18. If the rear Wi-Fi antenna is available, install it. See “Installing and removing the rear Wi-Fi antenna” on
page 141.
19. If the front Wi-Fi antenna is available, install it. See “Installing and removing the front Wi-Fi antenna” on
page 139.
20. If the Wi-Fi card module is available, install it. See “Installing or replacing the Wi-Fi card module” on
page 137.
21. Reinstall the hard disk drive assembly. See “Replacing the hard disk drive assembly” on page 134.
22. Reinstall the power button board. See “Replacing the power button board” on page 133.
23. If the cover presence switch is available, install it. See “Installing or replacing the cover presence
switch” on page 130.
24. Reinstall the memory module. See “Replacing the memory module” on page 129.
25. Reinstall the microprocessor fan. See “Replacing the microprocessor fan” on page 125.
26. Refer to your record to connect cables to the new system board. You also can refer to “Locating
parts on the system board” on page 34 to help you locate the connectors on the system board and
connect cables.
What to do next:
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.
• To complete the installation or replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 147.

Installing or replacing the keyboard or mouse
Attention: Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the Chapter
1 “Read this first: Important safety information” on page 1.
To install or replace the keyboard or mouse, do the following:
1. If you are replacing the keyboard or mouse, disconnect the old keyboard cable or mouse cable from the
computer.
2. Connect a new keyboard or mouse to one of the USB connectors on the computer. Depending on
where you want to connect the new keyboard or mouse, see “Locating connectors, controls, and
indicators on the front of your computer” on page 28 or “Locating connectors on the rear of your
computer” on page 29.

Figure 71. Connecting the USB keyboard or mouse

What to do next:
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.
• To complete the installation or replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 147.

146

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

Completing the parts replacement
After completing the installation or replacement for all parts, you need to reinstall the computer cover and
reconnect cables. Depending on the parts you installed or replaced, you might need to confirm the updated
information in the Setup Utility program. Refer to “Using the Setup Utility program” on page 61.
To reinstall the computer cover and reconnect cables to your computer, do the following:
1. Ensure that all components have been reassembled correctly and that no tools or loose screws are left
inside your computer. See “Locating components” on page 30 for the locations of various components
in your computer.
2. Before reinstalling the computer cover, ensure that the cables are routed correctly. Keep cables clear of
the hinges and sides of the computer chassis to avoid interference with reinstalling the computer cover.

Chapter 11. Installing or replacing hardware

147

3. Position the computer cover on the chassis and then push the cover to the rear of the computer until
it snaps into position.

Figure 72. Installing the computer cover

148

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

4. Install the screw to secure the computer cover.

Figure 73. Installing the computer cover screw

5. If there is a Kensington-style cable lock available, lock the computer. See “Attaching a Kensington-style
cable lock” on page 57.
6. Reconnect the external cables and power cords to the computer. See “Locating connectors on the
rear of your computer” on page 29.
7. To update your configuration, refer to “Using the Setup Utility program” on page 61.
Note: In most areas of the world, Lenovo requires the return of the defective Customer Replaceable Unit
(CRU). Information about this will come with the CRU or will come a few days after the CRU arrives.

Obtaining device drivers
You can obtain device drivers that are not preinstalled in your operating system at
http://www.lenovo.com/support. Installation instructions are provided in readme files with the device-driver
files.

Lenovo Thin Client Manager
The Lenovo Thin Client Manager (LTM) program is a management tool that enables you to manage all the
thin client devices. To download LTM and find more information about Lenovo Thin Client devices, go to
http://www.lenovo.com/support/thinclient and follow the instructions on the screen.

Chapter 11. Installing or replacing hardware

149

150

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

Chapter 12. Getting information, help, and service
This chapter contains information about help, service, and technical assistance for products manufactured
by Lenovo.

Information resources
You can use the information in this section to access useful resources relating to your computing needs.

Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools
The Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools program provides easy access to various tools to help you work more
easily and securely.
To access the Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools program, click Start ➙ All Programs ➙ Lenovo ThinkVantage
Tools.

Help and Support
The Windows Help and Support information system provides you with various help and support information
from Lenovo and Microsoft, such as updating drivers, accessing programs, and accessing user manuals.
To access the Windows Help and Support information system, do one of the following:
• On the Windows 7 operating system, click Start ➙ Help and Support.
• On the Windows 8.1 operating system, move the pointer to the top-right or bottom-right corner of the
screen to display the charms. Then click Settings ➙ Help.

Safety and Warranty
The Safety, Warranty, and Setup Guide that is provided with your computer contains information on safety,
setup, warranty, and notices. The safety information in the Safety, Warranty, and Setup Guide provides
information you need to know before setting up and using this product. Read and understand all safety
information provided in the Safety, Warranty, and Setup Guide before using this product.
The information in Chapter 1 “Read this first: Important safety information” on page 1 of this User Guide
provides additional safety information that applies to topics and tasks described in this publication. Read and
understand all safety information provided in that section before disassembling or upgrading this product.

Lenovo Web site
The Lenovo Web site (http://www.lenovo.com) provides up-to-date information and services to help you buy,
upgrade, and maintain your computer. You can also do the following:
• Shop for desktop and notebook computers, monitors, projectors, upgrades and accessories for your
computer, and special offers.
• Purchase additional services, such as support for hardware, operating systems, application programs,
network setup and configuration, and custom installations.
• Purchase upgrades and extended hardware repair services.
• Download the latest device drivers and software updates for your computer model.
• Access the online manuals for your products.
• Access the Lenovo Limited Warranty.
© Copyright Lenovo 2014

151

• 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.

Lenovo Support Web site
Technical support information is available on the Lenovo Support Web site at:
http://www.lenovo.com/support
This Web site is updated with the latest support information such as the following:
• Drivers and software
• Diagnostic solutions
• Product and service warranty
• Product and parts details
• User guides and manuals
• Knowledge base and frequently asked questions

Help and service
This section contains information about obtaining help and service.

Using the documentation and diagnostic program
If you experience a problem with your computer, see Chapter 8 “Troubleshooting and diagnostics” on
page 75. For information on additional resources to help you troubleshoot your computer problem, see
“Information resources” on page 151.
If you suspect a software problem, see the documentation that comes with the operating system or software
program, including readme files and online help.
Most computers come with a diagnostic program that help you identify hardware problems.
You can also get the latest technical information and download device drivers and updates from Lenovo
Support Web site at:
http://www.lenovo.com/support

Calling for service
During the warranty period, you can get help and information by telephone through the Customer Support
Center.
The following services are available during the warranty period:
• Problem determination - Trained service personnel are available to assist you with determining a
hardware problem and deciding what action is necessary to fix the problem.
• Hardware repair - If the problem is caused by hardware under warranty, trained service personnel are
available to provide the applicable level of service.
• Engineering Change management - There might be changes that are required after a product has
been sold. Lenovo or your reseller will make selected Engineering Changes (ECs) that apply to your
hardware available.
These items are not covered by the warranty:

152

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

•
•
•
•
•
•

Replacement or use of parts not manufactured for or by Lenovo or non-warranted Lenovo parts
Identification of software problem sources
Configuration of BIOS as part of an installation or upgrade
Changes, modifications, or upgrades to device drivers
Installation and maintenance of network operating systems (NOS)
Installation and maintenance of application programs

Refer to the Safety, Warranty, and Setup Guide that comes with your computer for information about your
warranty type and duration. You must retain your proof of purchase to obtain warranty service.
For a list of Lenovo Support phone numbers, go to http://www.lenovo.com/support/phone or refer to the
Safety, Warranty, and Setup Guide that comes with your computer.
Note: Phone numbers are subject to change without notice. If the number for your country or region is not
provided, contact your Lenovo reseller or Lenovo marketing representative.
If possible, be at your computer when you call. Have the following information available:
• Machine type and model
• Serial numbers of your hardware products
• Description of the problem
• Exact wording of any error messages
• Hardware and software configuration information

Using other services
You might travel with your computer or relocate it to a country or region where the machine type for your
desktop or notebook computer is sold. In such a situation, your computer might be eligible for International
Warranty Service, which automatically entitles you to obtain warranty service throughout the warranty period.
Service will be performed by service providers authorized to perform warranty service.
Service methods and procedures vary by country, and some services might not be available in all countries.
International Warranty Service is delivered through the method of service (such as depot, carry-in, or
on-site service) that is provided in the servicing country. Service centers in certain countries might not be
able to service all models of a particular machine type. In some countries, fees and restrictions might
apply at the time of service.
To determine whether your computer is eligible for International Warranty Service and to view a list of the
countries or regions where service is available, go to http://www.lenovo.com/support. Then click Product &
Service Warranty, and follow the instructions on the screen.
For technical assistance with the installation of or questions related to Service Packs for your preinstalled
Microsoft Windows product, go to the Microsoft Product Support Web site at http://support.microsoft.com.
You also can contact the Lenovo Customer Support Center for help. Some fees might apply.

Purchasing additional services
During and after the warranty period, you can purchase additional services. Examples of these additional
services include:
• Support for hardware, operating systems, and application programs
• Network setup and configuration services
• Upgraded or extended hardware repair services
• Custom installation services

Chapter 12. Getting information, help, and service

153

Service availability and service name might vary by country or region. For more information about these
services, go to the Lenovo Web site at:
http://www.lenovo.com

154

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

Appendix A. Regulatory information
Export classification notice
This product is subject to the United States Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and has an Export
Classification Control Number (ECCN) of 4A994.b. It can be re-exported except to any of the embargoed
countries in the EAR E1 country list.

Electronic emissions notices
The following information refers to Lenovo personal computer machine types 10DB, 10DC, 10DD, 10DE,
10DV, 10DW, 10DX, 10DY, 10EC, and 10ED.

Federal Communications Commission Declaration of Conformity
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant
to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful
interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency
energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference
to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular
installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be
determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by
one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult an authorized dealer or service representative for help.
Lenovo is not responsible for any radio or television interference caused by using other than specified or
recommended cables and connectors or by unauthorized changes or modifications to this equipment.
Unauthorized changes or modifications could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1)
this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received,
including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Responsible Party:
Lenovo (United States) Incorporated
1009 Think Place - Building One
Morrisville, NC 27560
Phone Number: 919-294-5900

Industry Canada Class B emission compliance statement
CAN ICES-3(B)/NMB-3(B)
European Union - Compliance to the Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive

155

This product is in conformity with the protection requirements of EU Council Directive 2004/108/EC on the
approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to electromagnetic compatibility. Lenovo cannot
accept responsibility for any failure to satisfy the protection requirements resulting from a non-recommended
modification of the product, including the installation of option cards from other manufacturers.
This product has been tested and found to comply with the limits for Class B Information Technology
Equipment according to European Standard EN 55022. The limits for Class B equipment were derived
for typical residential environments to provide reasonable protection against interference with licensed
communication devices.
Lenovo, Einsteinova 21, 851 01 Bratislava, Slovakia

German Class B compliance statement
Deutschsprachiger EU Hinweis:
Hinweis für Geräte der Klasse B EU-Richtlinie zur Elektromagnetischen Verträglichkeit
Dieses Produkt entspricht den Schutzanforderungen der EU-Richtlinie 2004/108/EG (früher 89/336/EWG) zur
Angleichung der Rechtsvorschriften über die elektromagnetische Verträglichkeit in den EU-Mitgliedsstaaten
und hält die Grenzwerte der EN 55022 Klasse B ein.
Um dieses sicherzustellen, sind die Geräte wie in den Handbüchern beschrieben zu installieren und zu
betreiben. Des Weiteren dürfen auch nur von der Lenovo empfohlene Kabel angeschlossen werden.
Lenovo übernimmt keine Verantwortung für die Einhaltung der Schutzanforderungen, wenn das Produkt
ohne Zustimmung der Lenovo verändert bzw. wenn Erweiterungskomponenten von Fremdherstellern ohne
Empfehlung der Lenovo gesteckt/eingebaut werden.
Deutschland:
Einhaltung des Gesetzes über die elektromagnetische Verträglichkeit von Betriebsmitteln
Dieses Produkt entspricht dem „Gesetz über die elektromagnetische Verträglichkeit von Betriebsmitteln“
EMVG (früher „Gesetz über die elektromagnetische Verträglichkeit von Geräten“). Dies ist die Umsetzung der
EU-Richtlinie 2004/108/EG (früher 89/336/EWG) in der Bundesrepublik Deutschland.
Zulassungsbescheinigung laut dem Deutschen Gesetz über die elektromagnetische Verträglichkeit
von Betriebsmitteln, EMVG vom 20. Juli 2007 (früher Gesetz über die elektromagnetische
Verträglichkeit von Geräten), bzw. der EMV EG Richtlinie 2004/108/EC (früher 89/336/EWG), für
Geräte der Klasse B.
Dieses Gerät ist berechtigt, in Übereinstimmung mit dem Deutschen EMVG das EG-Konformitätszeichen
- CE - zu führen. Verantwortlich für die Konformitätserklärung nach Paragraf 5 des EMVG ist die Lenovo
(Deutschland) GmbH, Gropiusplatz 10, D-70563 Stuttgart.
Informationen in Hinsicht EMVG Paragraf 4 Abs. (1) 4:
Das Gerät erfüllt die Schutzanforderungen nach EN 55024 und EN 55022 Klasse B.
Korea Class B compliance statement

156

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

Japan VCCI Class B compliance statement

Japan compliance statement for products which connect to the power mains with rated current
less than or equal to 20 A per phase

Lenovo product service information for Taiwan

Keyboard and mouse compliance statement for Taiwan

Eurasian compliance mark

Brazil regulatory notice
Ouvir sons com mais de 85 decibéis por longos períodos pode provocar danos ao sistema auditivo.

Mexico regulatory notice
Advertencia: En Mexico la operación de este equipo estásujeta a las siguientes dos condiciones: (1) es
posible que este equipo o dispositivo no cause interferencia perjudicial y (2) este equipo o dispositivo debe
aceptar cualquier interferencia, incluyendo la que pueda causar su operación no deseada.

Additional regulatory information
For additional regulatory information, refer to the Regulatory Notice shipped with your computer. Depending
on the configuration of your computer and the country or region where the computer was purchased,
you might have received additional printed regulatory notices. All regulatory notices are available on the
Lenovo Support Web site in electronic format. To access electronic copies of the documentation, go to
http://www.lenovo.com/UserManuals.

Appendix A. Regulatory information

157

158

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

Appendix B. WEEE and recycling information
Lenovo encourages owners of information technology (IT) equipment to responsibly recycle their equipment
when it is no longer needed. Lenovo offers a variety of programs and services to assist equipment owners in
recycling their IT products. For information on recycling Lenovo products, go to:
http://www.lenovo.com/recycling

Important WEEE information

The WEEE marking on Lenovo products applies to countries with WEEE and e-waste regulations (for example,
European Directive 2002/96/EC, India E-Waste Management & Handling Rules, 2011). Appliances are
labeled in accordance with local regulations concerning waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE).
These regulations determine the framework for the return and recycling of used appliances as applicable
within each geography. This label is applied to various products to indicate that the product is not to be
thrown away, but rather put in the established collection systems for reclaiming these end of life products.
Users of electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) with the WEEE marking must not dispose of end of
life EEE as unsorted municipal waste, but use the collection framework available to them for the return,
recycle, and recovery of WEEE and to minimize any potential effects of EEE on the environment and
human health due to the presence of hazardous substances. For additional WEEE information go to:
http://www.lenovo.com/recycling

Recycling information for Japan
Collecting and recycling a disused Lenovo computer or monitor
If you are a company employee and need to dispose of a Lenovo computer or monitor that is the property
of the company, you must do so in accordance with the Law for Promotion of Effective Utilization of
Resources. Computers and monitors are categorized as industrial waste and should be properly disposed
of by an industrial waste disposal contractor certified by a local government. In accordance with the Law
for Promotion of Effective Utilization of Resources, Lenovo Japan provides, through its PC Collecting
and Recycling Services, for the collecting, reuse, and recycling of disused computers and monitors. For
details, visit the Lenovo Web site at http://www.lenovo.com/recycling/japan. Pursuant to the Law for
Promotion of Effective Utilization of Resources, the collecting and recycling of home-used computers
and monitors by the manufacturer was begun on October 1, 2003. This service is provided free of
charge for home-used computers sold after October 1, 2003. For details, visit the Lenovo Web site at
http://www.lenovo.com/recycling/japan.

159

Disposing of Lenovo computer components
Some Lenovo computer products sold in Japan may have components that contain heavy metals or other
environmental sensitive substances. To properly dispose of disused components, such as a printed circuit
board or drive, use the methods described above for collecting and recycling a disused computer or monitor.
Disposing of disused lithium batteries from Lenovo computers
A button-shaped lithium battery is installed inside your Lenovo computer to provide power to the computer
clock while the computer is off or disconnected from the main power source. If you need to replace it with a
new one, contact your place of purchase or contact Lenovo for service. If you need to dispose of a disused
lithium battery, insulate it with vinyl tape, contact your place of purchase or an industrial-waste-disposal
operator, and follow their instructions. Disposal of a lithium battery must comply with local ordinances
and regulations.

Recycling information for Brazil
Declarações de Reciclagem no Brasil
Descarte de um Produto Lenovo Fora de Uso
Equipamentos elétricos e eletrônicos não devem ser descartados em lixo comum, mas enviados à pontos de
coleta, autorizados pelo fabricante do produto para que sejam encaminhados e processados por empresas
especializadas no manuseio de resíduos industriais, devidamente certificadas pelos orgãos ambientais, de
acordo com a legislação local.
A Lenovo possui um canal específico para auxiliá-lo no descarte desses produtos. Caso você possua
um produto Lenovo em situação de descarte, ligue para o nosso SAC ou encaminhe um e-mail para:
reciclar@lenovo.com, informando o modelo, número de série e cidade, a fim de enviarmos as instruções
para o correto descarte do seu produto Lenovo.

Battery recycling information for Taiwan

Battery recycling information for the European Union

Notice: This mark applies only to countries within the European Union (EU).

160

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

Batteries or packaging for batteries are labeled in accordance with European Directive 2006/66/EC
concerning batteries and accumulators and waste batteries and accumulators. The Directive determines the
framework for the return and recycling of used batteries and accumulators as applicable throughout the
European Union. This label is applied to various batteries to indicate that the battery is not to be thrown
away, but rather reclaimed upon end of life per this Directive.
In accordance with the European Directive 2006/66/EC, batteries and accumulators are labeled to indicate
that they are to be collected separately and recycled at end of life. The label on the battery may also
include a chemical symbol for the metal concerned in the battery (Pb for lead, Hg for mercury, and Cd for
cadmium). Users of batteries and accumulators must not dispose of batteries and accumulators as unsorted
municipal waste, but use the collection framework available to customers for the return, recycling, and
treatment of batteries and accumulators. Customer participation is important to minimize any potential
effects of batteries and accumulators on the environment and human health due to the potential presence of
hazardous substances. For proper collection and treatment, go to:
http://www.lenovo.com/recycling

Appendix B. WEEE and recycling information

161

162

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

Appendix C. Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive
(RoHS)
European Union RoHS
Lenovo products sold in the European Union, on or after 3 January 2013 meet the requirements of Directive
2011/65/EU on the restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic
equipment (“RoHS recast” or “RoHS 2”).
For more information about Lenovo progress on RoHS, go to:
http://www.lenovo.com/social_responsibility/us/en/RoHS_Communication.pdf

China RoHS

Turkish RoHS
The Lenovo product meets the requirements of the Republic of Turkey Directive on the Restriction of the Use
of Certain Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment (EEE).

163

Ukraine RoHS

India RoHS
RoHS compliant as per E-Waste (Management & Handling) Rules, 2011.

164

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

Appendix D. China Energy Label

165

166

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

Appendix E. ENERGY STAR model information

ENERGY STAR® is a joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department
of Energy aimed at saving money and protecting the environment through energy efficient products and
practices.
Lenovo is proud to offer our customers products with an ENERGY STAR compliant designation. Some
models of the following machine types have been designed and tested to conform to the ENERGY STAR
program requirement for computers at the time of manufacture: 10DB, 10DC, 10DD, 10DE, 10DV, 10DW,
10DX, 10DY, 10EC, and 10ED. For more information about ENERGY STAR ratings for Lenovo computers,
go to http://www.lenovo.com.
By using ENERGY STAR compliant products and taking advantage of the power-management features of
your computer, you reduce the consumption of electricity. Reduced electrical consumption contributes to
potential financial savings, a cleaner environment, and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
For more information about ENERGY STAR, go to:
http://www.energystar.gov
Lenovo encourages you to make efficient use of energy an integral part of your day-to-day operations. To
help in this endeavor, set the following power-management features to take effect when your computer has
been inactive for a specified duration:
Table 3. ENERGY STAR power-management features
Windows 7 or Windows 8.1 operating system
Power plan:

ThinkCentre®

Default

• Turn off the display: After 10 minutes
• Put the computer to sleep: After 25 minutes
• Advanced power settings:
– Turn off hard disk drives: After 20 minutes
– Hibernate: Never

To awaken your computer from a Sleep mode, press any key on your keyboard. For more information about
these settings, refer to your Windows Help and Support information system.

167

168

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

Appendix F. 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.

169

Trademarks
The following terms are trademarks of Lenovo in the United States, other countries, or both:
Lenovo
Rescue and Recovery
The Lenovo logo
The ThinkCentre logo
ThinkCentre
ThinkVantage
Microsoft, Windows, and Windows Media are trademarks of the Microsoft group of companies.
Intel is a trademark of Intel Corporation in the U.S. and/or other countries.
Linux is a registered trademark of Linus Torvalds.
DisplayPort and VESA are trademarks of the Video Electronics Standards Association.
Other company, product, or service names may be trademarks or service marks of others.

170

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

Index
A

a rescue medium, creating and using
ac power adapter
installing 105
removing 105
ac power adapter bracket
installing 104
removing 104
Administrator, password 62
Advance configuration 61
audio features 36

deleting a password 62
Description 30
device drivers 149
devices, handling static-sensitive 103
diagnostic program 86
diagnostics program, using 152
diagnostics, troubleshooting 75
DisplayPort connector 30
documentation, using 152
drivers, device 149

B
backup and recovery operations
basic troubleshooting 75
BIOS passwords, using 62
BIOS settings, changing 67
boot-block recovery 69

environment, operating 39
Ethernet connector 30
exiting, Setup Utility 66
expansion 37
external hard disk drive
installing 117
replacing 117
external optical drive
installing 111
replacing 111
external options, installing 103

C
cable lock, security 57
changing
password 62
startup device sequence 64
cleaning an optical mouse 73
CMOS, clearing 63
coin-cell battery
replacing 136
components, internal 30, 32
computer cover
removing 123
computer cover, reinstalling 147
connector 30
connectors
rear 29
connectors, controls, indicators
front 28
considerations, passwords 62
cover presence switch
installing 130
replacing 130
creating
and using a rescue medium 98
creating and using
recovery media 95
CRU
completing the installation 147
CRUs (Customer Replaceable Units), returning defective
customer support center 152

F
failure, recovering from BIOS 69
features 35
front
connectors, controls, indicators
front Wi-Fi antenna
installing 139
removing 139
FRU locations 32
FRU part numbers v, 32

G
getting
help 151
information 151
service 151

H
32

hard disk drive assembly, replacing
Hard disk, password 62
Headset connector 30
heat sink
replacing 127
help
and service 152

134

171

getting 151
Help and Support

installing
replacing

151

Identifying FRUs 32
information
getting 151
resources 151
safety 151
warranty 151
Input/Output (I/O) features 36
installing
ac power adapter 105
ac power adapter bracket 104
cover presence switch 130
external hard disk drive 117
external optical drive 111
front Wi-Fi antenna 139
keyboard 146
mouse 146
operating system 67
rear Wi-Fi antenna 141
vertical stand 107
VESA mount bracket 109
Wi-Fi card module 137
internal drives 36
internal speaker
replacing 131

notices

operations, backup and recovery
optical mouse
cleaning 73
Optional-service CRUs 32

P
part numbers v, 32
parts replacement, completing 147
password
Administrator 62
considerations 62
Hard disk 62
Power-on password 62
setting, changing, deleting 62
passwords
erasing 63
lost or forgotten 63
physical specifications 39
power
features 37
power button board, replacing 133
power-on self-test (POST) 67
Power-on, password 62
programs, updating system 66
purchasing additional services 153

Kensington-style
cable lock 57
keyboard
installing 146
replacing 146

L
Lenovo Solution Center 86
Lenovo Thin Client Manager 149
Lenovo Thin Client Manager, LTM 149
Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools 151
locating components 30, 32
looking up part numbers v, 32

172

169

media, creating and using recovery media
memory 36
memory module
replacing 129
Microphone connector 30
microprocessor 36
microprocessor fan
replacing 125
microprocessor socket cover
installing 143
mouse

146
146

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

rear connectors 29
rear Wi-Fi antenna
installing 141
removing 141
recovering
from a BIOS update failure 69
software 95
recovery
boot-block 69
operations, backup and 96
problems, solving 100
recovery media, creating and using
removing
ac power adapter 105
ac power adapter bracket 104
front Wi-Fi antenna 139
rear Wi-Fi antenna 141
vertical stand 107
VESA mount bracket 109
removing computer cover 123
replacing
coin-cell battery 136

cover presence switch 130
external hard disk drive 117
external optical drive 111
hard disk drive assembly 134
heat sink 127
internal speaker 131
keyboard 146
memory module 129
microprocessor fan 125
mouse 146
power button board 133
system board 143
Wi-Fi card module 137
Rescue and Recovery 95
workspace, Rescue and Recovery 97
Rescue and Recovery workspace 97
resources, information 151

S
safety information 151
security
enabling or disabling 63
features 38
selecting
startup device 64
temporary startup device 64
Self-service CRUs 32
service
and help 152
customer support center 152
getting 151
services
other 153
purchasing additional 153
setting
password 62
settings
changing 61
viewing 61
Setup Utility 61
Setup Utility program, starting 61
Setup Utility, exiting 66
software
recovering 95
solving recovery problems 100
starting the Setup Utility program 61
startup device 64
sequence, changing 64
temporary, selecting 64
static-sensitive devices, handling 103
system
management 37
programs 67
system board
connectors 34
locating parts 34
locations 34
replacing 143

T
temporary startup device 64
the BIOS 68
the BIOS, updating 68–69
trademarks 170
troubleshooting, basic 75
troubleshooting, diagnostics 75

U
updating
system programs 66
the BIOS 68
updating the BIOS 69
USB 2.0 connector 30
USB 3.0 connector 30
using
a rescue medium, creating and
BIOS passwords 62
diagnostic program 152
documentation 152
other services 153
Setup Utility 61

V
vertical stand
installing 107
removing 107
VESA mount bracket
installing 109
removing 109
VGA connector 30
video features 36
viewing and changing settings

W
warranty information 151
Wi-Fi card module
installing 137
replacing 137
wireless
features 37
workspace, backup and recovery

173

174

ThinkCentre M53 Hardware Maintenance Manual

Source Exif Data:

File Type                       : PDF
File Type Extension             : pdf
MIME Type                       : application/pdf
PDF Version                     : 1.4
Linearized                      : No
Language                        : en
XMP Toolkit                     : Adobe XMP Core 5.4-c005 78.147326, 2012/08/23-13:03:03
Arbortext 0020 Build            : R60M075-303
Compression 0020level           : 6
Compression 0020type            : auto
Config 0020 File                : D:\PTC\ArbortextPE_6.0\lib\standard.pdfcf
EPS0020processor                : PStill version 1.78.16
Graphics 0020resolution         : 600
Graphics 0020resolution 0020threshold: 900
JPEG0020quality                 : 80
Print 0020 Engine               : Arbortext FOSI Print Publisher
Stylesheet                      : D:\PTC\ArbortextPE_6.0\custom\doctypes\ditabase\8.5x11_book_hel.style
Create Date                     : 2014:08:04 13:28:58+08:00
Creator Tool                    : Arbortext Publishing Engine
Modify Date                     : 2014:08:04 13:37:31+08:00
Metadata Date                   : 2014:08:04 13:37:31+08:00
Producer                        : PDFlib+PDI 8.0.2p1 (Win32)
Format                          : application/pdf
Document ID                     : uuid:01dee7d0-b723-4168-8362-5718fbc578df
Instance ID                     : uuid:f51c985f-2e5c-4cf0-bcb8-0347af513226
Page Layout                     : SinglePage
Page Count                      : 184
Arbortext Build                 : R60M075-303
Compression Level               : 6
Compression Type                : auto
Config File                     : D:\PTC\ArbortextPE_6.0\lib\standard.pdfcf
Creator                         : Arbortext Publishing Engine
EPS Processor                   : PStill version 1.78.16
Graphics Resolution             : 600
Graphics Resolution Threshold   : 900
JPEG Quality                    : 80
Print Engine                    : Arbortext FOSI Print Publisher

EXIF Metadata provided by EXIF.tools

Lenovo M53 Hmm User Manual Hardware Maintenance Think Centre Desktop (Think Centre) Type 10ER

Navigation menu

Versions of this User Manual:

Views

Navigation