Lenovo M73 Sff Ug En User Manual (English) Guide (Small Form Factor) Think Centre Desktop (Think Centre) Type 10AY

2016-06-06

User Manual: Lenovo M73 Sff Ug En (English) User Guide (Small Form Factor) - ThinkCentre M73 M73 Desktop (ThinkCentre) - Type 10AY ThinkCentre M73, 10AY

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ThinkCentre M73
User Guide

Machine Types: 10B4, 10B5, 10B6, 10B7, 10HL, and 10HM

Note: Before using this information and the product it supports, be sure to read and understand the
“Important safety information” on page v and Appendix A “Notices” on page 125.

Seventh Edition (May 2016)
© Copyright Lenovo 2013, 2016.
LIMITED AND RESTRICTED RIGHTS NOTICE: If data or software is delivered pursuant to a General Services
Administration “GSA” contract, use, reproduction, or disclosure is subject to restrictions set forth in Contract No.
GS-35F-05925.

Contents
Important safety information . . . . . . v
Service and upgrades . . . . . .
Static electricity prevention . . . .
Power cords and power adapters .
Extension cords and related devices
Plugs and outlets. . . . . . . .
External devices . . . . . . . .
Heat and product ventilation . . .
Operating environment . . . . .
Laser compliance statement . . .
Power supply statement . . . . .
Cleaning and maintenance . . . .

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Chapter 1. Product overview . . . . . . 1
Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lenovo programs . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accessing a program on your computer . . .
An introduction to Lenovo programs . . . .
Locations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Locating connectors, controls, and indicators
on the front of your computer . . . . . . .
Locating connectors on the rear of your
computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Locating components . . . . . . . . . .
Locating parts on the system board . . . .
Locating internal drives . . . . . . . . .
Machine type and model label . . . . . . .

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Chapter 2. Using your computer . . .

Frequently asked questions . . . . . . . . .
Navigating among screens on the Windows 8 and
Windows 8.1 operating systems . . . . . . . .
Navigating on Windows 8 . . . . . . . .
Navigating on Windows 8.1 . . . . . . . .
Accessing Control Panel on the Windows 8 or
Windows 8.1 operating system . . . . . . . .
Using Windows shortcut keys. . . . . . . . .
Using the wheel mouse . . . . . . . . . . .
Setting the computer volume . . . . . . . . .
Adding an icon to the Windows notification area .
Using CDs and DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . .
Handling and storing CD and DVD media . .
Playing a CD or DVD . . . . . . . . . .
Recording a CD or DVD . . . . . . . . .

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Chapter 3. You and your computer . .

Accessibility and comfort . . . . . . . . . .

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

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Chapter 4. Security . . . . . . . . . .

Security features . . . . . . . . . .
Locking the computer cover . . . . .
Attaching a Kensington-style cable lock.
Preventing unauthorized access to your
computer . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Using fingerprint authentication . . . .
Using and understanding firewalls . . .
Protecting data against viruses . . . .

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Chapter 5. Installing or replacing
hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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Handling static-sensitive devices . . . . . . .
Installing or replacing hardware . . . . . . . .
Installing external options . . . . . . . .
Removing the computer cover. . . . . . .
Removing and reinstalling the front bezel . .
Accessing the system board components and
drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing or replacing a memory module . . .
Installing or replacing a PCI Express card . .
Replacing the battery . . . . . . . . . .
Replacing the hard disk drive . . . . . . .
Replacing the solid-state drive . . . . . .
Installing or replacing the optical drive . . .
Replacing the heat sink and fan assembly . .
Replacing the power supply assembly . . .
Replacing the microprocessor . . . . . . .
Replacing the front audio and USB
assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Replacing the system fan assembly . . . .
Replacing the WiFi units . . . . . . . . .
Installing or removing the rear WiFi antenna .
Installing or removing the front WiFi antenna .
Replacing the keyboard . . . . . . . . .
Replacing the mouse . . . . . . . . . .
Completing the parts replacement . . . . .

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Chapter 6. Recovery information . . .
Recovery information for the Windows 7 operating
system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Creating and using recovery media . . . . .
Performing backup and recovery operations .
Using the Rescue and Recovery workspace .
Creating and using a rescue medium . . . .
Reinstalling preinstalled applications and
device drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Reinstalling software programs . . . . . .
Reinstalling device drivers . . . . . . . .
Solving recovery problems . . . . . . . .
Recovery information for the Windows 8 or
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 or Windows 8.1 fails to start . . . . . . .
Recovery information for the Windows 10 operating
system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Chapter 7. Using the Setup Utility
program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Starting the Setup Utility program . . . . . . .
Viewing and changing settings . . . . . . . .
Using BIOS passwords . . . . . . . . . . .
Password considerations . . . . . . . . .
Power-On Password . . . . . . . . . .
Administrator Password . . . . . . . . .
Hard Disk Password. . . . . . . . . . .
Setting, changing, and deleting a password .
Erasing lost or forgotten passwords (clearing
CMOS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Enabling or disabling a device . . . . . . . .
Selecting a startup device . . . . . . . . . .
Selecting a temporary startup device . . . .
Selecting or changing the startup device
sequence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Enabling ErP LPS compliance mode . . . . . .
ICE performance mode . . . . . . . . . . .
ICE thermal alert . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Exiting from the Setup Utility program . . . . .

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Using system programs . . . . . . . . . . .
Updating the BIOS . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Recovering from a POST/BIOS update failure . .

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Chapter 9. Preventing problems . . .

Keeping your computer current . . . . . . . .

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

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Chapter 10. Troubleshooting and
diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Basic troubleshooting . . . . . . . . .
Troubleshooting procedure . . . . . . .
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . .
Audio problems . . . . . . . . .
CD problems . . . . . . . . . .
DVD problems . . . . . . . . . .
Intermittent problems . . . . . . .
Keyboard, mouse, or pointing device
problems . . . . . . . . . . . .
Monitor problems. . . . . . . . .
Networking problems . . . . . . .
Option problems . . . . . . . . .
Performance and lockup problems . .
Printer problems . . . . . . . . .
Serial port problems. . . . . . . .
Software problems . . . . . . . .
USB problems . . . . . . . . . .
Lenovo Solution Center . . . . . . . .

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Chapter 11. Getting information, help,
and service . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
Information resources . . . . . . . . . .
Windows help system . . . . . . . .
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 . . . .

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Appendix A. Notices . . . . . . . . .

Chapter 8. Updating system
programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Getting the latest device drivers for your
computer . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Getting the latest system updates . . .
Cleaning and maintenance . . . . . . . .
Basics . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cleaning your computer . . . . . . .
Good maintenance practices . . . . .
Moving your computer . . . . . . . . .

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

Appendix B. Regulatory
information . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Export classification notice . . . . . . . . . .
Television output notice . . . . . . . . . . .
Electronic emissions notices . . . . . . . . .

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Federal Communications Commission
Declaration of Conformity . . . . . .
Eurasian compliance mark . . . . . . . .
Brazil audio notice . . . . . . . . . . .
Mexico wireless-radio compliance information
Additional regulatory information . . . . .

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

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131

Appendix D. Restriction of Hazardous
Substances (RoHS) Directive . . . . 135
European Union RoHS
Turkish RoHS . . . .
Ukraine RoHS . . . .
India RoHS . . . . .
China RoHS. . . . .
Taiwan RoHS . . . .

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Appendix E. China Energy Label . .

137

Appendix F. ENERGY STAR model
information . . . . . . . . . . . . .

139

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133

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

141

iii

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

Important safety information
CAUTION:
Before using this manual, be sure to read and understand all the related safety information for this
product. Refer to the information in this section and the safety information in the Safety, Warranty, and
Setup Guide that you received with this product. Reading and understanding this safety information
reduces the risk of personal injury and damage to your product.
If you no longer have a copy of the Safety, Warranty, and Setup Guide, you can obtain a Portable Document
Format (PDF) version from the Lenovo® Support Web site at http://www.lenovo.com/support. The Lenovo
Support Web site also provides the Safety, Warranty, and Setup Guide and this User Guide in additional
languages.

Service and upgrades
Do not attempt to service a product yourself unless instructed to do so by the Customer Support Center or
your documentation. Only use a Service Provider who is approved to repair your particular product.
Note: Some computer parts can be upgraded or replaced by the customer. Upgrades typically are
referred to as options. Replacement parts approved for customer installation are referred to as Customer
Replaceable Units, or CRUs. Lenovo provides documentation with instructions when it is appropriate for
customers to install options or replace CRUs. You must closely follow all instructions when installing or
replacing parts. The Off state of a power indicator does not necessarily mean that voltage levels inside a
product are zero. Before you remove the covers from a product equipped with a power cord, always make
sure that the power is turned off and that the product is unplugged from any power source. For more
information on CRUs, refer to Chapter 5 “Installing or replacing hardware” on page 35. If you have any
questions or concerns, contact the Customer Support Center.
Although there are no moving parts in your computer after the power cord has been disconnected, the
following warnings are required for your safety.
CAUTION:

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

Static electricity prevention
Static electricity, although harmless to you, can seriously damage computer components and options.
Improper handling of static-sensitive parts can cause damage to the part. When you unpack an option
© Copyright Lenovo 2013, 2016

or CRU, do not open the static-protective package containing the part until the instructions direct you
to install it.
When you handle options or CRUs, or perform any work inside the computer, take the following precautions
to avoid static-electricity damage:
• Limit your movement. Movement can cause static electricity to build up around you.
• Always handle components carefully. Handle adapters, memory modules, and other circuit boards by the
edges. Never touch exposed circuitry.
• Prevent others from touching components.
• When you install a static-sensitive option or CRU, touch the static-protective package containing the
part to a metal expansion-slot cover or other unpainted metal surface on the computer for at least two
seconds. This reduces static electricity in the package and your body.
• When possible, remove the static-sensitive part from the static-protective packaging and install the part
without setting it down. When this is not possible, place the static-protective packaging on a smooth,
level surface and place the part on it.
• Do not place the part on the computer cover or other metal surface.

Power cords and power adapters
Use only the power cords and power adapters supplied by the product manufacturer. Do not use the ac
power cord for other devices.
The power cords shall be safety approved. For Germany, it shall be H03VV-F, 3G, 0.75 mm2 (the power cord
connected to the power adapter), H05VV-F, 3G, 0.75 mm2 (the power cord connected to the internal power
supply assembly), 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.

Extension cords and related devices
Ensure that extension cords, surge protectors, uninterruptible power supplies, and power strips that you use
are rated to handle the electrical requirements of the product. Never overload these devices. If power strips
are used, the load should not exceed the power strip input rating. Consult an electrician for more information
if you have questions about power loads, power requirements, and input ratings.

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

Plugs and outlets
If a receptacle (power outlet) that you intend to use with your computer equipment appears to be damaged
or corroded, do not use the outlet until it is replaced by a qualified electrician.
Do not bend or modify the plug. If the plug is damaged, contact the manufacturer to obtain a replacement.
Do not share an electrical outlet with other home or commercial appliances that draw large amounts of
electricity; otherwise, unstable voltage might damage your computer, data, or attached devices.
Some products are equipped with a three-pronged plug. This plug fits only into a grounded electrical outlet.
This is a safety feature. Do not defeat this safety feature by trying to insert it into a non-grounded outlet. If
you cannot insert the plug into the outlet, contact an electrician for an approved outlet adapter or to replace
the outlet with one that enables this safety feature. Never overload an electrical outlet. The overall system
load should not exceed 80 percent of the branch circuit rating. Consult an electrician for more information
if you have questions about power loads and branch circuit ratings.
Be sure that the power outlet you are using is properly wired, easily accessible, and located close to the
equipment. Do not fully extend power cords in a way that will stress the cords.
Be sure that the power outlet provides the correct voltage and current for the product you are installing.
Carefully connect and disconnect the equipment from the electrical outlet.

External devices
Do not connect or disconnect any external device cables other than Universal Serial Bus (USB) and 1394
cables while the computer power is on; otherwise, you might damage your computer. To avoid possible
damage to attached devices, wait at least five seconds after the computer is shut down to disconnect
external devices.

Heat and product ventilation
Computers, power adapters, and many accessories can generate heat when turned on and when batteries
are charging. Always follow these basic precautions:
• Do not leave your computer, power adapter, or accessories in contact with your lap or any part of your
body for an extended period when the products are functioning or when the battery is charging. Your
computer, power adapter, and many accessories produce some heat during normal operation. Extended
contact with the body could cause discomfort or, potentially, a skin burn.
• Do not charge the battery or operate your computer, power adapter, or accessories near flammable
materials or in explosive environments.
• Ventilation slots, fans, and heat sinks are provided with the product for safety, comfort, and reliable
operation. These features might inadvertently become blocked by placing the product on a bed, sofa,
carpet, or other flexible surface. Never block, cover, or disable these features.
Inspect your desktop computer for dust accumulation at least once every three months. Before inspecting
your computer, turn off the power and unplug the computer's power cord from the electrical outlet; then
remove any dust from vents and perforations in the bezel. If you notice external dust accumulation, then
examine and remove dust from the inside of the computer including heat sink inlet fins, power supply vents,
and fans. Always turn off and unplug the computer before opening the cover. If possible, avoid operating
your computer within two feet of high-traffic areas. If you must operate your computer in or near a high-traffic
area, inspect and, if necessary, clean your computer more frequently.

vii

For your safety and to maintain optimum computer performance, always follow these basic precautions
with your desktop computer:
• Keep the cover closed whenever the computer is plugged in.
• Regularly inspect the outside of the computer for dust accumulation.
• Remove dust from vents and any perforations in the bezel. More frequent cleanings might be required for
computers in dusty or high-traffic areas.
• Do not restrict or block any ventilation openings.
• Do not store or operate your computer inside furniture, as this might increase the risk of overheating.
• Airflow temperatures into the computer should not exceed 35°C (95°F).
• Do not install air filtration devices. They may interfere with proper cooling.

Operating environment
The optimal environment in which to use your computer is 10°C-35°C (50°F-95°F) with humidity ranging
between 35% and 80%. If your computer is stored or transported in temperatures less than 10°C (50°F),
allow the cold computer to rise slowly to an optimal operating temperature of 10°C-35°C (50°F-95°F) before
use. This process could take two hours in extreme conditions. Failure to allow your computer to rise to an
optimal operating temperature before use could result in irreparable damage to your computer.
If possible, place your computer in a well-ventilated and dry area without direct exposure to sunshine.
Keep electrical appliances such as an electric fan, radio, high-powered speakers, air conditioner, and
microwave oven away from your computer because the strong magnetic fields generated by these
appliances can damage the monitor and data on the hard disk drive.
Do not place any beverages on top of or beside the computer or other attached devices. If liquid is spilled on
or in the computer or an attached device, a short circuit or other damage might occur.
Do not eat or smoke over your keyboard. Particles that fall into your keyboard can cause damage.

Laser compliance statement

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

viii

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

Power supply statement
Never remove the cover on a power supply or any part that has the following label attached.

Cleaning and maintenance
Keep your computer and workspace clean. Shut down the computer and then disconnect the power
cord before cleaning the computer. Do not spray any liquid detergent directly on the computer or use
any detergent containing flammable material to clean the computer. Spray the detergent on a soft cloth
and then wipe the computer surfaces.

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

Chapter 1. Product overview
This chapter provides information about the computer features, specifications, software programs provided
by Lenovo, and locations of connectors, components, parts on the system board, and internal drives.

Features
This section introduces the computer features. The information covers a variety of models.
To view the information about your specific model, do one of the following:
• On the Microsoft® Windows® 7 operation system, click Start, right-click Computer, and select Properties
to view the information.
• On the Microsoft Windows 8 or 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.
• On the Microsoft Windows 10 operating system, click the Start button to open the Start menu. Then, click
Settings ➙ System ➙ About to view the information.
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 or 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.
• On the Microsoft Windows 10 operating system, click the Start button to open the Start menu. Then, click
Settings ➙ System ➙ About to view the information.
Memory
Your computer supports up to 2 double data rate 3 dual inline memory modules (DDR3 DIMMs).
Internal drives
• Optical drive: DVD-ROM or DVD-R
• Hybrid drive
• Serial Advanced Technology Attachment (SATA) hard disk drive
• SATA solid-state drive
Video subsystem
• Integrated graphics for a Video Graphics Array (VGA) connector and a DisplayPort® connector
• Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) Express x16 graphics card slot on the system board for a
discrete graphics card
Audio subsystem
• Integrated high-definition (HD) audio
• Audio line-in connector, audio line-out connector, and microphone connector on the rear panel
© Copyright Lenovo 2013, 2016

• Microphone connector and headphone connector on the front panel
• Internal speaker (available on some models)
Connectivity
• 100/1000 Mbps integrated Ethernet controller
• PCIE x1 Fax modem (some models)
System management features
• Ability to store power-on self-test (POST) hardware test results
• Desktop Management Interface (DMI)
Desktop Management Interface provides a common path for users to access information about all
aspects of a computer, including processor type, installation date, attached printers and other peripherals,
power sources, and maintenance history.
• ErP 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 92.
• Preboot Execution Environment (PXE)
The Preboot Execution Environment is an environment to start computers using a network interface
independent of data storage devices (such as the hard disk drive) or installed operating systems.
• 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 93 and “ICE thermal alert” on page 93.
• System Management (SM) Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) and SM software
The SM BIOS specification defines data structures and access methods in a BIOS that allows a user or
application to store and retrieve information specific about the computer in question.
• Wake on LAN
Wake on LAN is an Ethernet computer networking standard that allows a computer to be turned on
or woken up by a network message. The message is usually sent by a program running on another
computer on the same local area network.
• Wake on Ring
Wake on Ring, sometimes referred to as Wake on Modem, is a specification that allows supported
computers and devices to resume from sleep or hibernation mode.
• Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI)
Windows Management Instrumentation is a set of extensions to the Windows Driver Model. It provides an
operating system interface through which instrumented components provide information and notification.

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

Input/Output (I/O) features
• 9-pin serial port (one standard and one optional)
• One Ethernet connector
• One DisplayPort connector
• One VGA monitor connector
• One Personal System/2 (PS/2) keyboard connector
• One PS/2 mouse connector
• Four Universal Serial Bus (USB) 2.0 connectors (two on the front panel and two on the rear panel)
• Two USB 3.0 connectors on the rear panel
• Three audio connectors on the rear panel (audio line-in connector, audio line-out connector, and
microphone connector)
• Two audio connectors on the front panel (microphone connector and headphone connector)
For more information, see “Locating connectors, controls, and indicators on the front of your computer” on
page 9 and “Locating connectors on the rear of your computer” on page 10.
Expansion
• One hard disk drive bay
• One optical drive bay
• One secondary solid-state drive bay (optional)
• One slim card reader drive bay
• One PCI Express x16 graphics card slot
• Two PCI Express x1 card slots
For more information, see “Locating internal drives” on page 14.
Power supply
Your computer comes with 240-watt automatic voltage-sensing power supply.
Security features
• Ability to enable or disable a device
• Ability to enable and disable USB connectors individually
• Computrace Agent software embedded in firmware
• Cover presence switch (also called intrusion switch) (available in some models)
• Keyboard with fingerprint reader (shipped with some models)
• Power-on password (POP), administrator password, and hard disk password to deter unauthorized
use of your computer
• Startup sequence control
• Startup without keyboard or mouse
• Support for a Kensington-style cable lock
• Support for a padlock
For more information, see Chapter 4 “Security” on page 31.
Preinstalled software programs

Chapter 1. Product overview

Your computer is preinstalled with software programs to help you work more easily and securely. For more
information, see “Lenovo programs” on page 5.
Preinstalled operating system
Your computer is preinstalled with one of the following operating systems:Your computer is preinstalled with
one of the following operating systems:
• Microsoft Windows 7 operating system
• Microsoft Windows 8 operating system
• Microsoft Windows 8.1 operating system
• Microsoft Windows 10 operating system
Operating system(s), certified or tested for compatibility1 (varies by model type)
• Linux®

The operating system(s) listed here are being certified or tested for compatibility at the time this publication goes to
press. Additional operating systems might be identified by Lenovo as compatible with your computer following the
publication of this manual. This list is subject to change. To determine if an operating system has been certified or
tested for compatibility, check the Web site of the operating system vendor.

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

Specifications
This section lists the physical specifications for your computer.
Dimensions
Width: 99.7 mm (3.93 inches)
Height: 338 mm (13.31 inches)
Depth: 385 mm (15.16 inches)
Weight
Maximum configuration as shipped: 6.6 kg (14.55 lb) (without package)
Maximum configuration as shipped: 8.96 kg (19.75 lb) (with package)
Environment
• Air temperature:
Operating: 10°C to 35°C (50°F to 95°F)
Storage in original shipping package: -40°C to 60°C (-40°F to 140°F)
Storage without package: -10°C to 60°C (14°F to 140°F)
• Humidity:
Operating: 20% to 80% (non-condensing)
Storage: 20% to 90% (non-condensing)
• Altitude:
Operating: -15.2 to 3048 m (-50 to 10 000 ft)
Storage: -15.2 to 10 668 m (-50 to 35 000 ft)
Electrical input
• Input voltage:
– Low range:
Minimum: 100 V ac
Maximum: 127 V ac
Input frequency: 50/60 Hz
– High range:
Minimum: 200 V ac
Maximum: 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 a program on your computer
Note: For Windows 7, some of the Lenovo programs might be ready to be installed, so you need to install
them manually. Then, you can access and use these programs. To install a program that is ready to be
installed, open the Lenovo ThinkVantage® Tools program, and then view the program icons using Tiles.
Follow the instructions under greyed-out icons to locate the icon for the desired program. Double-click
the icon to install the program.

Chapter 1. Product overview

To access a program on your computer, do one of the following:
• For Windows 7 or Windows 10:
– From Windows Search:
1. Depending on your Windows version, do one of the following:
– For Windows 7: Click the Start button to open the Start menu, and then type the program
name into the search box.
– For Windows 10: Type the program name into the search box next to the Start button.
2. In the search results, click the name of the desired program to launch the program.
– From the Start menu or Control Panel:
1. Click the Start button to open the Start menu. Then, click the name of the desired program to
launch the program.
2. If the program name is not displayed, click All Programs for Windows 7 or All apps for Windows
10 to display the program list. From the list or a folder in the list, click the name of the desired
program to launch the program.
3. If the program name is not displayed on the Start menu, access the program from Control Panel.
a. Depending on your Windows version, do one of the following:
– For Windows 7: Click Control Panel on the Start menu.
– For Windows 10: Right-click the Start button to open the Start context menu, and then
click Control Panel.
b. View Control Panel using Large icons or Small icons, and then click the name of the desired
program to launch the program.
• For Windows 8 or Windows 8.1:
1. Press the Windows key
launch the program.

to go to the Start screen. Click the name of the desired program to

2. If you cannot find the program you need, depending on your Windows version, do one of the following:
– For Windows 8: Move the pointer to the bottom-right corner of the screen to display the charms.
Then click the Search charm to search for the desired program.
in the bottom-left corner of the screen to go to the
– For Windows 8.1: Click the arrow icon
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.

An introduction to Lenovo programs
This section provides information about the major Lenovo programs available on your operating system.
Note: Depending on your computer model, some of the following programs might not be available.
• For Windows 7 only:
– Create Recovery Media
The Create Recovery Media program enables you to restore only the C drive or the entire storage
drive to the factory-default settings.
– Lenovo PowerENGAGE
The Lenovo PowerENGAGE program enables you to register your computer with Lenovo.

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

– Message Center Plus
The Message Center Plus program automatically displays messages informing you about important
notices from Lenovo, such as alerts on system updates and alerts on conditions that require your
attention.
– Rescue and Recovery®
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.
• For Windows 10 only:
– Lenovo ID
The Lenovo ID program enables you to create your Lenovo ID and access all supported Lenovo
programs and web portals with single sign-on.
• For Windows 8 and Windows 8.1:
– Lenovo Support
The Lenovo Support program enables you to register your computer with Lenovo, check the computer
health condition and battery status, download and view user manuals for your computer, get the
warranty information of your computer, and explore help and support information.
• For Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows 8.1:
– Fingerprint Manager Pro or ThinkVantage Fingerprint Software
The Fingerprint Manager Pro or ThinkVantage Fingerprint Software program enables you to use a
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.
– Password Manager
The Password Manager program automatically captures and fills in authentication information for
Windows programs and Web sites.
– System Update
The System Update program provides regular access to the system updates for your computer, such
as device driver updates, software updates, and BIOS updates. The program gathers information from
the Lenovo Help Center about new updates for your computer, then sorts and displays the updates for
download and installation. You have complete control of which updates to download and install.
• For Windows 7, Windows 8.1, and Windows 10:
– Lenovo Bluetooth Lock
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.
– PC Cloud Manager
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.
Chapter 1. Product overview

• For Windows 8, Windows 8.1, and Windows 10:
– Lenovo Companion
Your computer’s best features and capabilities should be easy to access and understand. With Lenovo
Companion, they are. Use Lenovo Companion to do the following:
– Optimize your computer’s performance, monitor your computer’s health, and manage updates.
– Access your user guide, check warranty status, and view accessories customized for your computer.
– Read how-to articles, explore Lenovo forums, and stay up-to-date on technology news with articles
and blogs from trusted sources.
Lenovo Companion is filled with exclusive Lenovo content to help you learn more about what you
can do with your computer.
• For Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1, and Windows 10:
– Lenovo Device Experience or Lenovo PC Experience
The Lenovo Device Experience or Lenovo PC Experience program helps you work more easily and
securely. The program provides easy access to Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools or Lenovo Tools, important
settings and information about your computer, the Lenovo Support Web site, and so on.
– 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.
– Power Manager
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.
– REACHit or Lenovo Reach
The REACHit or Lenovo Reach program enhances your cloud experience. This program 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. You
also can add your favorite Web services to your cloud desktop and stay logged-in to Web sites with
the cloud password manager.
– SHAREit or Lenovo SHAREit
The SHAREit or 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 or Lenovo SHAREit uses any type of network or even no network at all to
share files and folders.

Locations
This section provides information to help you locate the connectors on the front and rear of your computer,
parts on the system board, and components and internal drives in your computer.

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

Locating connectors, controls, and indicators on the front of your
computer
Figure 1 “Front connector, control, and indicator locations” on page 9 shows the locations of the connectors,
controls, and indicators on the front of your computer.

Figure 1. Front connector, control, and indicator locations
1 Optical drive eject/close button

2 Power button

3 Hard disk drive activity indicator

4 Power indicator

5 USB 2.0 connector (USB connector 2)

6 Microphone connector

7 Headphone connector

8 USB 2.0 connector (USB connector 1)

Chapter 1. Product overview

Locating connectors on the rear of your computer
Figure 2 “Rear connector locations” on page 10 shows the locations of the connectors on the rear of your
computer. Some connectors on the rear of your computer are color-coded to help you determine where to
connect the cables on your computer.

Figure 2. Rear connector locations
1 Power cord connector

2 PS/2 mouse connector

3 PS/2 keyboard connector

4 DisplayPort connector

5 VGA monitor connector

6 USB 3.0 connectors (USB connectors 5 and 6)

7 USB 2.0 connectors (USB connectors 3 and 4)

8 Microphone connector

9 Audio line-out connector

10 Audio line-in connector

11 PCI Express x16 graphics card slot

12 PCI Express x1 card slots (2)

13 Ethernet connector

14 Security-lock slot

15 Serial connector

16 Padlock loop

Connector

Description

Audio line-in connector

Used to receive audio signals from an external audio device, such as a stereo
system. When you attach an external audio device, a cable is connected between
the audio line-out connector of the device and the audio line-in connector of the
computer.

Audio line-out connector

Used to send audio signals from the computer to external devices, such as powered
stereo speakers (speakers with built-in amplifiers), headphones, multimedia
keyboards, or the audio line-in connector on a stereo system or other external
recording device.

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

Connector

Description

DisplayPort connector

Used to attach a high-performance monitor, a direct-drive monitor, or other devices
that use a DisplayPort connector.
Note: The DisplayPort connector is not applicable on some models. If your
computer has a graphics card installed, be sure to use a monitor connector on
the graphics card.

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.

Microphone connector

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

PS/2 keyboard connector

Used to attach a keyboard that uses a PS/2 keyboard connector.

PS/2 mouse connector

Used to attach a mouse, a trackball, or other pointing devices that use a PS/2
mouse connector.

Serial port

Used to attach an external modem, a serial printer, or other devices that use a
9-pin serial port.

USB 2.0 connector

Used 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

Used to attach a device that requires a USB 2.0 or 3.0 connection, such as a
keyboard, a mouse, a scanner, a printer, or a personal digital assistant (PDA). A
USB 3.0 connector provides high transmission speeds to reduce the time that is
required for data transmission.

VGA connector

Used to attach a VGA monitor or other devices that use a VGA monitor connector.
Note: The VGA connector is not applicable on some models. If your computer has
a graphics card installed, be sure to use a monitor connector on the graphics card.

Chapter 1. Product overview

Locating components
Figure 3 “Component locations” on page 12 shows the locations of the various components in your
computer. To open the computer cover, see “Removing the computer cover” on page 36.

Figure 3. Component locations
1 Heat sink and fan assembly

2 Power supply assembly

3 Memory modules

4 Optical drive

5 Front audio and USB assembly

6 Front bezel

7 Slim card reader

8 Front fan (system fan) assembly

9 Hard disk drive (or solid-state drive)

10 PCI Express card

11 Heat sink fan duct

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

Locating parts on the system board
Figure 4 “System board part locations” on page 13 shows the locations of the parts on the system board.

Figure 4. System board part locations
1 4-pin power connector

2 Microprocessor fan connector

3 Memory slot 1 (DIMM1)

4 Memory slot 2 (DIMM2)

5 Thermal sensor connector

6 4-pin power connectors (number and location vary by model)

7 14-pin power connector

8 Parallel connector

9 SATA 3.0 connectors

10 Power fan connector

11 SATA 2.0 connector

12 Front panel connector (for connecting LED indicators and
power switch)

13 Front USB connector 1 (for connecting USB
ports 1 and 2 on the front bezel)

14 Front USB connector 2 (for connecting an additional USB
device)

15 Cover presence switch connector (intrusion
switch connector)

16 Clear CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor)
/Recovery jumper

17 Serial (COM2) connector

18 Front audio connector

19 PCI Express x1 card slots (2)

20 PCI Express x16 graphics card slot

21 System fan connector

22 Battery

23 Microprocessor

Chapter 1. Product overview

Locating internal drives
Internal drives are devices that your computer uses to read and store data. You can add drives to your
computer to increase storage capacity and enable your computer to read other types of media. Internal
drives are installed in bays.
When installing or replacing an internal drive, it is important to note the type and size of the drive that you
can install or replace in each bay and correctly connect the cables to the drive installed. Refer to the
appropriate section in Chapter 5 “Installing or replacing hardware” on page 35 for instructions on how to
install or replace internal drives for your computer.
Figure 5 “Drive bay locations” on page 14 shows the locations of the drive bays.

Figure 5. Drive bay locations
1 Bay 1 - Secondary solid-state drive bay (with a 2.5-inch solid-state drive or a hybrid hard disk drive installed in
some models)
2 Bay 2 - Optical drive bay (with an optical drive installed in some models)
3 Bay 3 - Slim card reader drive bay (with a slim card reader installed in some models)
4 Bay 4 - SATA hard disk drive bay (with a 3.5-inch hard disk drive or a 2.5-inch solid-state drive installed)

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

Machine type and model label
The machine type and model label identifies your computer. When you contact Lenovo for help, the machine
type and model information helps support technicians to identify your computer and provide faster service.
The following is a sample of the machine type and model label.

Figure 6. Machine type and model label

Chapter 1. Product overview

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

Chapter 2. Using your computer
This chapter provides information on using some of the computer components.

Frequently asked questions
The following are a few tips that will help you optimize the use of your computer.
Can I get my user guide in another language?
The user guide is available in various languages on the Lenovo Support Web site at:
http://www.lenovo.com/UserManuals
Where is my recovery disc set or recovery USB key?
Depending on your Windows version, your computer comes with a recovery disc set or recovery
USB key. If your computer does not come with it, contact the Lenovo Customer Support Center to
order a recovery disc set or recovery USB key. For a list of Lenovo Support phone numbers, go to
http://www.lenovo.com/support/phone. If you cannot find the support telephone number for your country
or region, contact your Lenovo reseller.
Where can I find help about the Windows operating system?
See “Windows help system” on page 121.
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, move your pointer to the taskbar at the bottom of the screen and right-click on the
taskbar.
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 so a check is visible.
• To set the Start screen as your default startup screen, remove the check from the When I sign in or
close all apps on the screen, go to desktop instead of Start checkbox.
4. Click OK to save the new setting.
This feature is not available on the Windows 8 operating system.

Navigating among screens on the Windows 8 and Windows 8.1 operating
systems
This section provides instructions on how to navigate among the desktop, the Start screen, and applications
that were opened from the Start screen on the Windows 8 and Windows 8.1 operating systems. For detailed
instructions, see “Navigating on Windows 8” on page 17 or “Navigating on Windows 8.1” on page 19.

Navigating on Windows 8
To navigate among the desktop, the Start screen, and applications that were opened from the Start screen
on the Windows 8 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, PC settings, or desktop):
– Using a pointing device: Move the pointer to the extreme bottom-left corner of the screen until a small
representation of the workspace is displayed; then click the representation.
– 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 representation of the workspace at
the bottom.
Note: The representation of a workspace is displayed only if 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: Move the pointer to the extreme bottom-left corner of the screen until a small
representation of the Start screen is displayed; then click the representation.
– Using a touch screen: 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 representation of the Start screen 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),
use any of the following procedures to go to another workspace that you have previously opened:
– To navigate to a previously accessed workspace (application, PC settings, 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 does
not display 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 a small
representation of the workspace is displayed; then click the representation.
18

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

– Using a touch screen: Swipe in from the left edge of the screen.
For information about using other features of the Windows 8 operating system, refer to the Windows help
system. For more information, see “Windows help system” on page 121.

Navigating on Windows 8.1
To navigate among the desktop, the Start screen, and applications that were 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.
Note: The Windows screen-control icon
in the background of the system.

is displayed only if you have at least one active workspace

• 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),
use any of the following procedures to go to another workspace that you have previously opened:
– 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.

Chapter 2. Using your computer

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 does
not display 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
is displayed; then click the icon.
Windows screen-control icon
– 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, or refer to the Windows help system. For more information,
see “Windows help system” on page 121.

Accessing Control Panel on the Windows 8 or 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 or 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
– For Windows 8:
1. Move the pointer to the top-right or bottom-right corner of the screen to display the charms.
2. Click Search.
3. On the Apps screen, scroll to the right side, and click Control Panel in the Windows System
section.
– For Windows 8.1:
1. Click the arrow icon

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.

Using Windows shortcut keys
Both the standard keyboard and the fingerprint reader keyboard provide three keys you can use with your
Microsoft Windows operating system.

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

• The two Windows logo keys are located beside the Alt key on either side of the spacebar. They feature
the Windows logo. On the Windows 7 or Windows 10 operating system, press the Windows key
to
open the Start menu. On the Windows 8 or Windows 8.1 operating system, press the Windows key
to switch between the current workspace and the Start screen. The style of the Windows logo varies
depending on the keyboard type.
• The context-menu key is located next to the Ctrl key on the right side of the Spacebar. Pressing the
context-menu key opens the context menu for the active program, icon, or object.
Note: You can use the mouse or the Up and Down arrow keys to highlight menu selections.

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

1 Primary mouse button

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

2 Wheel

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

3 Secondary mouse button

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

You can switch the function of the primary and secondary mouse buttons and change other default behavior
through the mouse properties function in the Windows Control Panel.

Setting the computer volume
To set the computer volume, do the following:
1. Click the volume icon in the Windows notification area on the taskbar.
Note: If the volume icon is not displayed in the Windows notification area, add the icon to the
notification area. See “Adding an icon to the Windows notification area” on page 21.
2. Follow the instructions on the screen to adjust the volume. Click the speaker icon to mute the audio.

Adding an icon to the Windows notification area
To add an icon to the Windows notification area, do the following:
1. Click the arrow next to the notification area to view hidden icons. Then, click the desired icon and
drag it to the notification area.
2. If the icon is not displayed, turn on the icon.
a. Depending on your Windows version, do one of the following:

Chapter 2. Using your computer

• For Windows 7: Click the Start button to open the Start menu, and then click Control Panel.
View Control Panel using Large icons or Small icons, and then click Notification Area Icons ➙
Turn system icons on or off.
• For Windows 8 or Windows 8.1: Open Control Panel. View Control Panel using Large icons or
Small icons, and then click Notification Area Icons ➙ Turn system icons on or off.
Note: For detailed information on how to open Control Panel on Windows 8 and Windows 8.1,
see “Accessing Control Panel on the Windows 8 or Windows 8.1 operating system” on page 20.
• For Windows 10: Click the Start button to open the Start menu. Then, click Settings ➙ System
➙ Notifications & actions ➙ Turn system icons on or off.
b. Turn on the desired icon.
3. If the icon is still not displayed in the Windows notification area, repeat step 1.

Using CDs and DVDs
Your computer might have a DVD ROM drive or recordable DVD drive installed. DVD drives use
industry-standard, 12 cm (4.75-inch) CD media or DVD media. If your computer comes with a DVD drive,
the drive can read DVD-ROM discs, DVD-R discs, DVD-RAM discs, DVD-RW discs, and all types of CDs,
such as CD-ROM discs, CD-RW discs, CD-R discs, and audio CDs. If you have a recordable DVD drive,
it can also record on DVD-R discs, DVD-RW discs, type II DVD-RAM discs, CD-RW standard and high
speed discs, and CD-R discs.
Follow these guidelines when using the DVD drive:
• Do not place the computer in a location where the drive is exposed to the following:
– High temperature
– High humidity
– Excessive dust
– Excessive vibration or sudden shock
– An inclined surface
– Direct sunlight
• Do not insert any object other than a CD or DVD into the drive.
• Before moving the computer, remove the CD or DVD from the drive.

Handling and storing CD and DVD media
CD and DVD media are durable and reliable, but they do require some care and special handling. When
handling and storing a CD or DVD, follow these guidelines:
• Hold the disc by its edges. Do not touch the surface of the side that is not labeled.
• To remove dust or fingerprints, wipe the disc with a clean, soft cloth from the center to the outside. Wiping
the disc in a circular direction might cause loss of data.
• Do not write or stick paper on the disc.
• Do not scratch or mark the disc.
• Do not place or store the disc in direct sunlight.
• Do not use benzene, thinners, or other cleaners to clean the disc.
• Do not drop or bend the disc.
• Do not insert damaged discs into the drive. Warped, scratched, or dirty discs can damage the drive.

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

Playing a CD or DVD
If your computer comes with a DVD drive, you can listen to audio CDs or watch DVD movies. To play a
CD or DVD, do the following:
1. Press the Eject/Load button on the DVD drive to open the tray.
2. With the tray fully extended, insert the CD or DVD into the tray. Some DVD drives have a snap hub in the
center of the tray. If your drive has a snap hub, support the tray with one hand and then push on the
center of the CD or DVD until it snaps into place.
3. Press the Eject/Load button again or gently push the tray forward to close the tray. The CD or DVD
player program starts automatically. For additional information, refer to the CD or DVD player program
help system.
To remove a CD or DVD from the DVD drive, do the following:
1. With the computer on, press the Eject/Load button. When the tray slides out automatically, carefully
remove the disc.
2. Close the tray by pressing the Eject/Load button or by gently pushing the tray forward.
Note: If the tray does not slide out of the drive when you press the Eject/Load button, insert a straightened
paper clip into the emergency-eject hole located on the front of the DVD drive. Be sure the drive is powered
off when using the emergency eject. Use the Eject/Load button instead of the emergency eject except
in an emergency.

Recording a CD or DVD
If your optical drive supports recording, you can record a CD or DVD.
To record a CD or DVD, do the following:
1. Insert a recordable disc into the optical drive that supports recording.
2. Open the PowerDVD Create, PowerProducer, or Power2Go program. See “Accessing a program on
your computer” on page 5.
3. Follow the instructions on the screen.

Chapter 2. Using your computer

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

Chapter 3. You and your computer
This chapter provides information about accessibility, comfort, and relocating your computer to other
countries or regions.

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

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 to 61 cm (20 to 24 inches), and position it so you can view it
without having to twist your body. Also, position other equipment you use regularly, such as the telephone or
a mouse, within easy reach.

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

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

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

Accessibility information
Lenovo is committed to providing users who have hearing, vision, and mobility limitations with greater
access to information and technology. This section provides information about the ways these users can get
the most out of their computer experience. You also can get the most up-to-date accessibility information
from the following Web site:
http://www.lenovo.com/accessibility
Keyboard shortcuts
The following table contains keyboard shortcuts that can help make your computer easier to use.
Note: Depending on your keyboard, some of the following keyboard shortcuts might not be available.
Keyboard shortcut

Function

Windows logo key + U

Open Ease of Access Center

Right Shift for eight seconds

Turn on or turn off Filter Keys

Shift five times

Turn on or turn off Sticky Keys

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

Keyboard shortcut

Function

Num Lock for five seconds

Turn on or turn off Toggle Keys

Left Alt+Left Shift+Num Lock

Turn on or turn off Mouse Keys

Left Alt+Left Shift+PrtScn (or PrtSc)

Turn on or turn off High Contrast

For more information, go to http://windows.microsoft.com, and then perform a search using any of the
following keywords: keyboard shortcuts, key combinations, shortcut keys.
Ease of Access Center
Ease of Access Center on the Windows operating system enables users to configure their computers to
suit their physical and cognitive needs.
To use Ease of Access Center, do the following:
1. Depending on your Windows version, do one of the following:
• For Windows 7: Click the Start button to open the Start menu, and then click Control Panel. View
Control Panel using Large icons or Small icons, and then click Ease of Access Center.
• For Windows 8 or Windows 8.1: Move the pointer to the top-right or bottom-right corner of the screen
to display the charms. Then, click Settings ➙ Change PC settings ➙ Ease of Access.
• For Windows 10: Click the Start button to open the Start menu. Then, click Settings ➙ Ease of
Access.
2. Choose the appropriate tool by following the instructions on the screen.
Ease of Access Center mainly includes the following tools:
• Magnifier
Magnifier is a useful utility that enlarges the entire screen or part of the screen so that you can see
the items better.
• Narrator
Narrator is a screen reader that reads aloud what is displayed on the screen and describes events such as
error messages.
• On-Screen Keyboard
If you prefer to type or enter data into your computer using a mouse, joystick, or other pointing device
instead of a physical keyboard, you can use On-Screen Keyboard. On-Screen Keyboard displays a visual
keyboard with all the standard keys.
• High Contrast
High Contrast is a feature that heightens the color contrast of some text and images on your screen. As a
result, those items are more distinct and easier to identify.
• Personalized keyboard
Adjust keyboard settings to make your keyboard easier to use. For example, you can use your keyboard
to control the pointer and type certain key combinations easier.
• Personalized mouse
Adjust mouse settings to make your mouse easier to use. For example, you can change the pointer
appearance and make it easier to manage windows with the mouse.
Speech Recognition
Speech Recognition enables you to control your computer by voice.

Chapter 3. You and your computer

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 use Speech Recognition, do the following:
1. Depending on your Windows version, do one of the following:
• For Windows 7: Click the Start button to open the Start menu, and then click Control Panel.
• For Windows 8 or Windows 8.1: Open Control Panel. See “Accessing Control Panel on the Windows
8 or Windows 8.1 operating system” on page 20.
• For Windows 10: Right-click the Start button to open the Start context menu, and then click Control
Panel.
2. View Control Panel using Large icons or Small icons, and then click Speech Recognition.
3. Follow the instructions on the screen.
Screen-reader technologies
Screen-reader technologies are primarily focused on software program interfaces, help information systems,
and various 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/
Screen resolution
You can make the text and images on your screen easier to read by adjusting the screen resolution of your
computer.
To adjust the screen resolution, do the following:
1. Right-click a blank area on the desktop.
2. Depending on your Windows version, do one of the following:
• For Windows 7, Windows 8, or Windows 8.1: Click Screen resolution.
• For Windows 10: Click Display settings. On the Display tab, click Advanced display settings.
3. Follow the instructions on the screen.
Note: Setting the resolution too low might prevent some items from fitting on the screen.
Customizable item size
You can make the items on your screen easier to read by changing the item size.
• To change the item size temporarily, use the Magnifier tool in Ease of Access Center. See “Ease of
Access Center” on page 27.
• To change the item size permanently, do the following:
– Change the size of all the items on your screen.
1. Right-click a blank area on the desktop.
2. Depending on your Windows version, do one of the following:

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

– For Windows 7, Windows 8, or Windows 8.1: Click Screen resolution ➙ Make text and other
items larger or smaller.
– For Windows 10: Click Display settings.
3. Change the item size by following the instructions on the screen.
4. Click Apply. This change will take effect the next time you log in to the operating system.
– Change the size of the items on a Web page.
Press and hold Ctrl, and then press the plus-sign key (+) to enlarge or the minus-sign key (-) to
reduce the text size.
– Change the size of the items on the desktop or a window.
Note: This function might not work on some windows.
If your mouse has a wheel, press and hold Ctrl, and then scroll the wheel to change the item size.
Industry-standard connectors
Your computer provides industry-standard connectors that enable you to connect assistive devices.
For more information about the location and function of the connectors, see “Locations” on page 8.
TTY/TDD conversion modem
Your computer supports the use of a 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.

Registering your computer
When you register your computer with Lenovo, you enter required information into a Lenovo database. The
information enables Lenovo to contact you when there is a recall or other severe problem and provide
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, ensure that your computer is connected to the Internet. Then, go to
http://www.lenovo.com/register and follow the instructions on the screen.

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

Chapter 3. You and your computer

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

Chapter 4. Security
This chapter provides information about how to protect your computer from theft and unauthorized use.

Security features
The following security features are available on your computer:
• Computrace Agent software embedded in firmware
The Computrace Agent software is an IT asset management and computer theft recovery solution.
The software detects if changes have been made on the computer, such as hardware, software, or
the computer call-in location.
Note: You might have to purchase a subscription to activate the Computrace Agent software.
• Cover presence switch (also called intrusion switch)
The cover presence switch prevents your computer from logging in to the operating system when the
computer cover is not properly installed or closed. To enable the cover presence switch connector
on the system board, to the following:
1. Start the Setup Utility program. See “Starting the Setup Utility program” on page 89.
2. Set the Administrator Password. See “Setting, changing, and deleting a password” on page 90.
3. From the Security submenu, select Chassis Intrusion Detection ➙ Enabled. The cover presence
switch connector on the system board is enabled.
When the cover presence switch detects that your computer cover is not properly installed or closed
when you turn on the computer, an error message will be displayed. To bypass the error message and
log in to the operating system, do the following:
1. Properly install or close your computer cover. See “Completing the parts replacement” on page 77.
2. Press F1 to enter the Setup Utility program. Then press F10 to save and exit the Setup Utility
program. The error message will not be displayed again.
• Ability to enable and disable devices and USB connectors
For more information, see “Enabling or disabling a device” on page 91.
• Integrated fingerprint reader (available on some models)
Depending on the models of your computer, the keyboard may have an integrated fingerprint reader.
By enrolling your fingerprint and associating it with a Power-on Password, a Hard Disk Password, or
both passwords beforehand, you can start the computer, log on to the system, and enter the Setup
Utility program by swiping your finger over the reader, without typing a password. Thus fingerprint
authentication can replace passwords and enable simple and secure user access.
• Startup sequence control
For more information, see “Selecting or changing the startup device sequence” on page 92.
• Startup without keyboard or mouse
Your computer is able to log in to the operating system without keyboard or mouse connected.
• Trusted Platform Module (TPM) (available on some models)
Trusted Platform Module is a secure cryptoprocessor that can store cryptographic keys that protect
information stored in your computer.

Locking the computer cover
Locking the computer cover helps prevent unauthorized people from gaining access to the inside of your
computer. Your computer comes with a padlock loop so that the computer cover cannot be removed
when a padlock is installed.

Figure 7. Installing a padlock

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

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 and is operated with a
key or combination depending on the type selected. 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 8. Kensington-style cable lock

Preventing unauthorized access to your computer
You can use BIOS passwords and Windows accounts to prevent unauthorized access to your computer and
data.
• To use BIOS passwords, see “Using BIOS passwords” on page 89.
• To use Windows accounts, do the following:
1. Depending on your Windows version, do one of the following:
– For Windows 7: Click the Start button to open the Start menu, and then click Control Panel ➙
User Accounts.
– For Windows 8 or Windows 8.1: Move the pointer to the top-right or bottom-right corner of the
screen to display the charms. Then, click Settings ➙ Change PC settings ➙ Accounts.
– For Windows 10: Click the Start button to open the Start menu, and then click Settings ➙
Accounts.
2. Follow the instructions on the screen.

Chapter 4. Security

Using fingerprint authentication
If your keyboard has a fingerprint reader, you can use fingerprint authentication to replace passwords for
simple and secure user access. To use fingerprint authentication, first enroll your fingerprints and associate
them with your passwords (such as the power-on password, hard disk password, and Windows password).
Use the fingerprint reader and the fingerprint program to complete this procedure.
To use fingerprint authentication, do one of the following:
• For Windows 7, Windows 8, or Windows 8.1: Use the Fingerprint Manager Pro or ThinkVantage
Fingerprint Software program provided by Lenovo. To open the program, see “Accessing a program on
your computer” on page 5. For more information about using the program, refer to the help system
of the program.
• For Windows 10: Use the fingerprint tool provided by Windows. Click the Start button to open the Start
menu, and then click Settings ➙ Accounts ➙ Sign-in options. Follow the instructions on the screen.
To use the fingerprint reader, refer to the documentation shipped with the fingerprint keyboard or located on
the Lenovo Support Web site at http://www.lenovo.com/support/keyboards.

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 “Windows help system” on page 121.

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.

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware
This chapter provides instructions on how to install or replace hardware for your computer.

Handling static-sensitive devices
Do not open the static-protective package containing the new part until the defective part has been removed
from the computer and you are ready to install the new part. Static electricity, although harmless to you, can
seriously damage computer components and parts.
When you handle parts and other computer components, take these precautions to avoid static-electricity
damage:
• Limit your movement. Movement can cause static electricity to build up around you.
• Always handle parts and other computer components carefully. Handle PCI cards, memory modules,
system boards, and microprocessors by the edges. Never touch any exposed circuitry.
• Prevent others from touching the parts and other computer components.
• Before you replace a new part, touch the static-protective package containing the part to a metal
expansion-slot cover or other unpainted metal surface on the computer for at least two seconds. This
reduces static electricity from the package and your body.
• When possible, remove the new part from the static-protective packaging, and install it directly in the
computer without setting the part down. When this is not possible, place the static-protective package
that the part came in on a smooth, level surface and place the part on it.
• Do not place the part on the computer cover or other metal surface.

Installing or replacing hardware
This section provides instructions on how to install or replace hardware for your computer. You can expand
the capabilities of your computer and maintain your computer by installing or replacing hardware.
Attention:
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”
on page v.

Notes:
• 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 9 and “Locating connectors on the rear of your computer” on page 10 to identify the
required connector. Then, use the instructions that come with the option to help you make the connection
and install any software or device drivers that are required for the option.

Removing the computer cover
Attention:
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”
on page v.

This section provides instructions on how to open the computer cover.
CAUTION:
Before you open the computer cover, turn off the computer and wait several minutes until the
computer is cool.
To open the computer cover, do the following:
1. Remove any media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer.
2. Disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets.
3. Disconnect the power cord, Input/Output cables, and any other cables that are connected to the
computer. See “Locating connectors, controls, and indicators on the front of your computer” on page 9
and “Locating connectors on the rear of your computer” on page 10.
4. Remove any locking device that secures the computer cover, such as an integrated cable lock or a
padlock. See “Attaching a Kensington-style cable lock” on page 33 or “Locking the computer cover”
on page 32.
5. Remove the two screws that secure the computer cover and slide the computer cover to the rear to
remove it.

Figure 9. Removing the computer cover

Removing and reinstalling the front bezel
Attention:
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”
on page v.

This section provides instructions on how to remove and reinstall the front bezel.
To remove and reinstall the front bezel, do the following:

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

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 36.
3. Remove the front bezel by releasing the three plastic tabs on the top of the front bezel and pivoting
the front bezel outward to remove it from the computer. Carefully lay the front bezel aside without
disconnecting the power switch and light-emitting diode (LED) assembly cable.

Figure 10. Removing the front bezel

4. To reinstall the front bezel, align the other three plastic tabs on the bottom of the front bezel with the
corresponding holes in the chassis, then pivot the front bezel inward until it snaps into position.

Figure 11. Reinstalling the front bezel

What to do next:
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.
• To complete the installation or replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 77.

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

Accessing the system board components and drives
Attention:
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”
on page v.

This section provides instructions on how to access the system board components and drives.
To access the system board components and drives, do the following:
1. Remove all media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer. Then, disconnect
all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables that are connected to the computer.
2. Remove the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 36.
3. Remove the front bezel. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on page 36.
4. Pivot the drive bay assembly upward to access all the internal drives, cables, and other components.

Figure 12. Pivoting the drive bay assembly upward

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

5. To lower the drive bay assembly, slightly press the drive bay assembly clip 1 inward and pivot the drive
bay assembly downward as shown.

Figure 13. Lowering the drive bay assembly

Installing or replacing a memory module
Attention:
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”
on page v.

This section provides instructions on how to install or replace a memory module.
Your computer has two slots for installing or replacing DDR3 DIMMs that provide up to a maximum of 16 GB
system memory. When installing or replacing a memory module, use 2 GB, 4 GB, or 8 GB DDR3 DIMMs
in any combination up to a maximum of 16 GB.
To install or replace a memory module, do the following:
1. Turn off the computer and disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets.
2. Remove the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 36.
3. Lay the computer on its side for easier access to the system board.
4. Remove the heat sink fan duct. See “Replacing the heat sink and fan assembly” on page 54.
5. Locate the memory slots. See “Locating parts on the system board” on page 13.
6. Remove any parts that might prevent access to the memory slots.
7. Depending on whether you are installing or replacing a memory module, do one of the following:

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

• If you are replacing an old memory module, open the retaining clips and gently pull the memory
module out of the memory slot.

Figure 14. Removing a memory module

• If you are installing a memory module, open the retaining clips of the memory slot into which you
want to install the memory module.

Figure 15. Opening the retaining clips

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

8. Position the new memory module over the memory slot. Make sure that the notch 1 on the memory
module aligns correctly with the slot key 2 on the system board. Push the memory module straight
down into the slot until the retaining clips close.

Figure 16. Installing a memory module

What to do next:
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.
• To complete the installation or replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 77.

Installing or replacing a PCI Express card
Attention:
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”
on page v.

This section provides instructions on how to install or replace a PCI Express card. Your computer has two
PCI Express x1 card slots and one PCI Express x16 graphics card slot.
To install or replace a PCI Express card, do the following:
1. Turn off the computer and disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets.
2. Remove the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 36.
3. Remove the front bezel. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on page 36.
4. Pivot the drive bay assembly upward. See “Accessing the system board components and drives”
on page 38.
5. Depending on whether you are installing or replacing a PCI Express card, do one of the following:
• If you are replacing an old PCI Express card, remove the screw that secures the old PCI Express card
and release the old PCI Express card from the PCI Express card slot.

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

Figure 17. Removing a PCI Express card

Notes:
– The card fits tightly into the card slot. If necessary, alternate moving each side of the card a small
amount until it is removed from the card slot.
– If the card is held in place by a retaining latch, press the card retaining latch 1 as shown to
disengage the latch. Grasp the card and gently pull it out of the slot.

• If you are installing a PCI Express card, remove the screw that secures the appropriate metal slot
cover. Then, remove the metal slot cover.
6. Remove the new PCI Express card from its static-protective package.

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

7. Install the new PCI Express card into the appropriate PCI Express card slot on the system board. Then,
install the screw to secure the new PCI Express card in place.

Figure 18. Installing a PCI Express card

8. If necessary, connect any cables between the PCI Express card and the system board. See “Locating
parts on the system board” on page 13 to identify the various connectors on the system board.
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 77.

Replacing the battery
Attention:
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”
on page v.

Your computer has a special type of memory that maintains the date, time, and settings for built-in features,
such as parallel-port assignments (configuration). A battery keeps this information active when you turn
off the computer.
The battery normally requires no charging or maintenance throughout its life; however, no battery lasts
forever. If the battery fails, the date, time, and configuration information (including passwords) are lost. An
error message is displayed when you turn on the computer.
Refer to the “Lithium battery notice” in the Safety, Warranty, and Setup Guide for information about replacing
and disposing of the battery.
To replace the battery, do the following:
1. Turn off the computer and disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets.

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

2. Remove the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 36.
3. Locate the battery. See “Locating parts on the system board” on page 13.
4. Remove the old battery.

Figure 19. Removing the old battery

5. Install a new battery.

Figure 20. Installing a new battery

6. Reinstall the computer cover and connect the cables. See “Completing the parts replacement” on
page 77.
Note: When the computer is turned on for the first time after replacing the battery, an error message
might be displayed. This is normal after replacing the battery.
7. Turn on the computer and all attached devices.
8. Use the Setup Utility program to set the date, time, and any passwords. See Chapter 7 “Using the Setup
Utility program” on page 89.
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 77.

Replacing the hard disk drive
Attention:
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”
on page v.

This section provides instructions on how to replace the hard disk drive.
Note: This section also applies to computer models with a 2.5-inch solid-state drive.
To replace the hard disk drive, do the following:
1. Turn off the computer and disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets.
2. Remove the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 36.

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

3. Remove the front bezel. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on page 36.
4. Note the location of the four screws 1 that secure the hard disk drive. Then, pivot the drive bay
assembly upward.

Figure 21. Pivoting the drive bay assembly

5. Hold the hard disk drive and remove the four screws that secure the hard disk drive. Then, remove
the hard disk drive from the drive bay assembly.

Figure 22. Removing the hard disk drive

6. Disconnect the signal cable and the power cable from the hard disk drive to completely remove the hard
disk drive from the chassis.

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

7. Connect one end of the signal cable to the rear of the new hard disk drive and the other end to an
available SATA connector on the system board. See “Locating parts on the system board” on page 13.
Then, locate an available four-wire power connector and connect it to the rear of the new hard disk drive.

Figure 23. Connecting a SATA hard disk drive

8. Position the new hard disk drive into the hard disk drive bay and align the screw holes in the new hard
disk drive with the corresponding holes in the drive bay. Then, install the four screws to secure the
new hard disk drive in place.

Figure 24. Installing the hard disk drive

What to do next:
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.
• To complete the installation or replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 77.

Replacing the solid-state drive
Attention:
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”
on page v.

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

This section provides instructions on how to replace the solid-state drive.
The solid-state drive is only available in some models. It might be installed in the hard disk drive bay or
on the bottom of the optical drive bay.
• To replace the solid-state drive in the hard disk drive bay, see “Replacing the solid-state drive in the hard
disk drive bay” on page 47.
• To replace the solid-state drive on the bottom of the optical drive bay, see “Replacing the solid-state drive
on the bottom of the optical drive bay” on page 48.

Replacing the solid-state drive in the hard disk drive bay
To replace the storage converter with the solid-state drive installed in it, you might follow the steps of
replacing the hard disk drive. See “Replacing the hard disk drive” on page 44.
To replace the solid-state drive in the storage converter, do the following:
1. Remove the four screws that secure the solid-state drive to the storage converter. Then, remove the
drive from the converter as shown.

Figure 25. Removing the solid-state drive from the storage converter

2. Take the new solid-state drive out of the static-protective package.

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

3. Position the solid-state drive into the storage converter so that the holes in the drive are aligned with
the corresponding holes in the converter. Then, install the four screws to secure the solid-state drive
to the converter.

Figure 26. Installing the solid-state drive into the storage converter

Replacing the solid-state drive on the bottom of the optical drive bay
To replace the solid-state drive on the bottom of the optical drive bay, 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 36.
3. Remove the front bezel. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on page 36.
4. Pivot the drive bay assembly upward. See “Accessing the system board components and drives”
on page 38.
5. Disconnect the signal cable and the power cable from the solid-state drive.

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

6. Remove the screw 1 and then carefully slide the solid-state drive bracket upward to remove the bracket
from the bottom of the optical drive bay.

Figure 27. Removing the solid-state drive bracket

7. Remove the four screws that secure the solid-state drive to the bracket. Then, slide the drive as shown
to remove it from the bracket.

Figure 28. Removing the solid-state drive from the bracket

8. Take the new solid-state drive out of the static-protective package.

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

9. Slide the new solid-state drive into the solid-state drive bracket as shown until the four holes in the
drive are aligned with the corresponding holes in the bracket. Then, install the four screws to secure the
new solid-state drive to the bracket.

Figure 29. Installing the solid-state drive into the bracket

10. Carefully slide the solid-state drive bracket downward until it is secured by the three retaining clips 1 on
the bottom of the optical drive bay.

Figure 30. Installing the solid-state drive bracket

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

11. Install the screw 1 to secure the bracket on the bottom of the optical drive bay.

Figure 31. Installing the screw to secure the bracket on the bottom of the optical drive bay

12. Connect one end of the signal cable to the bottom of the new solid-state drive and the other end to
an available SATA connector on the system board. See “Locating parts on the system board” on
page 13. Then, locate an available four-wire power connector and connect it to the bottom of the
new solid-state drive.
What to do next:
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.
• To complete the installation or replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 77.

Installing or replacing the optical drive
Attention:
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”
on page v.

This section provides instructions on how to install or replace the optical drive.
Note: The optical drive is only available in some models.
To replace the optical drive, do the following:
1. Turn off the computer and disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets.
2. Remove the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 36.
3. Remove the front bezel. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on page 36.
4. Pivot the drive bay assembly upward. See “Accessing the system board components and drives”
on page 38.
5. Disconnect the signal cable and the power cable from the optical drive.

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

6. Hold the optical drive and remove the two screws that secure the optical drive.

Figure 32. Removing the optical drive screws

7. Slightly press the drive bay assembly clip 1 inward and pivot the drive bay assembly downward as
shown.

Figure 33. Lowering the drive bay assembly

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

8. Slide the optical drive out of the front of the computer.

Figure 34. Removing the optical drive

9. Slide the new optical drive into the optical drive bay from the front of the computer.

Figure 35. Installing a new optical drive

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

10. Hold the new optical drive and pivot the drive bay assembly upward. Align the screw holes in the new
optical drive with the corresponding holes in the drive bay. Then, install the two screws to secure
the new optical drive in place.

Figure 36. Installing the optical drive

11. Connect one end of the signal cable to the rear of the new optical drive and the other end to an available
SATA connector on the system board. See “Locating parts on the system board” on page 13. Then,
locate an available four-wire power connector and connect it to the rear of the new optical drive.

Figure 37. Connecting a SATA optical drive

What to do next:
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.
• To complete the installation or replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 77.

Replacing the heat sink and fan assembly
Attention:
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”
on page v.

This section provides instructions on how to replace the heat sink and fan assembly.

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

CAUTION:
The heat sink and fan assembly 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 and fan assembly, do the following:
1. Remove all media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer. Then, disconnect
all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables that are connected to the computer.
2. Remove the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 36.
3. Pivot the drive bay assembly upward. Then, pivot the two plastic retaining clips outward to remove
the heat sink fan duct from the failing heat sink and fan assembly.

Figure 38. Removing the heat sink fan duct

4. Disconnect the heat sink and fan assembly cable from the microprocessor fan connector on the system
board. See “Locating parts on the system board” on page 13.

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

5. Follow the following sequence to remove the four screws that secure the heat sink and fan assembly
to the system board:
a. Partially remove screw 1 , then fully remove screw 2 , and then fully remove screw 1 .
b. Partially remove screw 3 , then fully remove screw 4 , and then fully remove screw 3 .
Note: Carefully remove the four screws from the system board to avoid any possible damage to the
system board. The four screws cannot be removed from the heat sink and fan assembly.

Figure 39. Removing the heat sink and fan assembly

6. Lift the heat sink and fan assembly off the system board.
Notes:
• You might have to gently twist the heat sink and fan assembly to free it from the microprocessor.
• When handling the heat sink and fan assembly, do not touch the thermal grease on the bottom
of the heat sink and fan assembly.
7. Place the new heat sink and fan assembly on the system board so that the four screws are aligned
with the corresponding holes in the system board. Make sure that you properly place the new heat
sink and fan assembly so that you can easily connect the new heat sink and fan assembly cable to the
microprocessor fan connector on the system board.
8. Follow the following sequence to install the four screws to secure the new heat sink and fan assembly.
Do not over-tighten the screws.
a. Partially tighten screw 1 , then fully tighten screw 2 , and then fully tighten screw 1 .
b. Partially tighten screw 3 , then fully tighten screw 4 , and then fully tighten screw 3 .
9. Connect the new heat sink and fan assembly cable to the microprocessor fan connector on the system
board. See “Locating parts on the system board” on page 13.

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

10. Lower and position the heat sink fan duct on the top of the heat sink and fan assembly until it snaps
into position.

Figure 40. Installing the heat sink fan duct

What to do next:
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.
• To complete the replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 77.

Replacing the power supply assembly
Attention:
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”
on page v.

This section provides instructions on how to replace the power supply assembly.
Although there are no moving parts in your computer after the power cord has been disconnected, the
following warnings are required for your safety and proper Underwriters Laboratories (UL) certification.
CAUTION:

Hazardous moving parts. Keep fingers and other body parts away.
Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

CAUTION:
Never remove the cover on a power supply or any part that has the following label attached.

Hazardous voltage, current, and energy levels are present inside any component that has this label
attached. There are no serviceable parts inside these components. If you suspect a problem with
one of these parts, contact a service technician.
To replace the power supply assembly, do the following:
1. Remove all media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer. Then, disconnect
all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables that are connected to the computer.
2. Remove the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 36.
3. Remove the front bezel. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on page 36.
4. Pivot the drive bay assembly upward. Then, pivot the two plastic retaining clips outward to remove
the heat sink fan duct from the failing heat sink and fan assembly.

Figure 41. Removing the heat sink fan duct

5. Disconnect the power supply assembly cables from all drives and from the 24-pin power connector and
4-pin power connector on the system board. See “Locating parts on the system board” on page 13.
Note: You might also need to release the power supply assembly cables from some cable clips or ties
that secure the cables to the chassis. Make sure that you note the cable routing before disconnecting
the cables.

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

6. At the rear of the computer, remove the three screws that secure the power supply assembly. Press the
power supply clip 1 downward to release the power supply assembly and then slide the power supply
assembly to the front of the computer. Lift the power supply assembly out of the computer.

Figure 42. Removing the power supply assembly

7. Make sure that the new power supply assembly is the correct replacement.

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

8. Install the new power supply assembly into the chassis so that the screw holes in the new power supply
assembly are aligned with the corresponding holes in the rear of the chassis. Then, install the three
screws to secure the new power supply assembly in place.
Note: Use only screws provided by Lenovo.

Figure 43. Installing the power supply assembly

9. Connect the new power supply assembly cables to all drives and the system board. See “Locating
parts on the system board” on page 13.

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

10. Lower and position the heat sink fan duct on the top of the heat sink and fan assembly until the two
screw holes in the heat sink fan duct are aligned with those in the heat sink and fan assembly. Install
the two screws to secure the heat sink fan duct.

Figure 44. Installing the heat sink fan duct

What to do next:
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.
• To complete the replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 77.

Replacing the microprocessor
Attention:
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”
on page v.

This section provides instructions on how to replace the microprocessor.
CAUTION:
The heat sink and microprocessor might be very hot. Before you open the computer cover, turn off
the computer and wait several minutes until the computer is cool.
To replace the microprocessor, do the following:
1. Remove all media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer. Then, disconnect
all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables that are connected to the computer.
2. Remove the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 36.
3. Locate the system board and disconnect all cables connected to the system board. See “Locating
parts on the system board” on page 13.
4. Remove the heat sink and fan assembly. See “Replacing the heat sink and fan assembly” on page 54.
Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

Note: Do not let the thermal grease on the bottom of the heat sink and fan assembly get in contact
with anything.
5. Lift the small handle 1 and open the retainer 2 to access the microprocessor 3 .

Figure 45. Accessing the microprocessor

6. Lift the microprocessor straight up and out of the microprocessor socket.
Notes:
• Your microprocessor and socket might look different from the one illustrated.
• Touch only the edges of the microprocessor. Do not touch the gold contacts on the bottom.
• Do not drop anything onto the microprocessor socket while it is exposed. The socket pins must be
kept as clean as possible.

Figure 46. Removing the microprocessor

7. Ensure that the small handle is in the raised position and the microprocessor retainer is fully open.
8. Remove the protective cover that protects the gold contacts of the new microprocessor.
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ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

9. Note the orientation of the new microprocessor. Hold the new microprocessor by its edges and align
the notches 1 on it with the tabs 2 in the microprocessor socket. Then, carefully lower the new
microprocessor straight down into the microprocessor socket.
Note: The small triangle 3 on one corner of the new microprocessor is the microprocessor orientation
indicator. The new microprocessor is in the correct orientation when this indicator points to the beveled
corner 4 of the microprocessor socket.

Figure 47. Installing the microprocessor

10. Close the microprocessor retainer and lock it into position with the small handle to secure the new
microprocessor in the socket.
11. Reinstall the heat sink and fan assembly and the fan duct. See “Replacing the heat sink and fan
assembly” on page 54.
12. Reconnect all cables that were disconnected from the system board.
What to do next:
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.
• To complete the replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 77.

Replacing the front audio and USB assembly
Attention:
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”
on page v.

This section provides instructions on how to replace the front audio and USB assembly.
To replace the front audio and USB assembly, do the following:
1. Remove all media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer. Then, disconnect
all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables that are connected to the computer.
2. Remove the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 36.

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

3. Remove the front bezel. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on page 36.
4. Pivot the drive bay assembly upward and disconnect the front audio and USB assembly cables from the
system board and note the cables routing. See “Locating parts on the system board” on page 13.
5. Lower the drive bay assembly. See “Accessing the system board components and drives” on page 38.
6. Remove the screw that secures the front audio and USB assembly bracket. Then remove the front
audio and USB assembly bracket from the chassis.

Figure 48. Removing the front audio and USB assembly

7. Remove the two screws that secure the front audio and USB assembly to its bracket. Then remove the
failing front audio and USB assembly from the bracket.
8. Install a new front audio and USB assembly into the bracket and install the two screws to secure the
front audio and USB assembly to the bracket.
9. Install the front audio and USB assembly bracket to the chassis and align the screw hole in the bracket
with the corresponding hole in the chassis.
10. Install the screw to secure the front audio and USB assembly bracket to the chassis.
11. Pivot the drive bay assembly upward and reconnect the front USB and front audio cables to the system
board. See “Locating parts on the system board” on page 13.
12. Lower the drive bay assembly. See “Accessing the system board components and drives” on page 38.
13. Reinstall the front bezel. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on page 36.
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 77.

Replacing the system fan assembly
Attention:
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”
on page v.

This section provides instructions on how to replace the system fan assembly.

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

To replace the system fan assembly, do the following:
1. Remove all media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer. Then, disconnect
all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables that are connected to the computer.
2. Remove the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 36.
3. Remove the front bezel. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on page 36.
4. Pivot the drive bay assembly upward to gain access to the system fan assembly. See “Accessing the
system board components and drives” on page 38.
5. Remove the hard disk drive for easier access to the system fan assembly. See “Replacing the hard
disk drive” on page 44.
6. Remove the heat sink fan duct. See “Replacing the heat sink and fan assembly” on page 54.
7. Note the cable routing and disconnect the system fan assembly cable from the system fan connector on
the system board. See “Locating parts on the system board” on page 13.
8. The system fan assembly is attached to the chassis by four rubber mounts. Remove the system fan
assembly by cutting the rubber mounts and lifting the system fan assembly out of the chassis.
Note: The new system fan assembly will have four new rubber mounts attached.

Figure 49. Removing the system fan assembly

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

9. Install the new system fan assembly by aligning the new rubber mounts that came with the new system
fan assembly with the corresponding holes in the chassis, and then push the rubber mounts through the
holes. Then, carefully pull on the tips of the rubber mounts from the bottom until the new system fan
assembly is secured in place.

Figure 50. Installing the system fan assembly

10. Connect the new system fan assembly cable to the system fan connector on the system board. See
“Locating parts on the system board” on page 13.
11. Reinstall the heat sink fan duct. See “Replacing the heat sink and fan assembly” on page 54.
12. Reinstall the hard disk drive. See “Replacing the hard disk drive” on page 44.
What to do next:
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.
• To complete the replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 77.

Replacing the WiFi units
Attention:
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”
on page v.

This section provides instructions on how to replace the WiFi units. The WiFi units include a WiFi adapter
card, a WiFi card module, and a rear WiFi antenna cable.
Replacing the WiFi units involves the following operations:
•

“Removing the WiFi adapter card” on page 67

•

“Removing the WiFi card module” on page 68

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

•

“Installing the WiFi units” on page 69

Removing the WiFi adapter card
To remove the WiFi adapter card, do the following:
1. Turn off the computer and disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets.
2. Remove the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 36.
3. If your computer comes with a WiFi card module that supports the Bluetooth function, disconnect
the Bluetooth cable from the WiFi adapter card.

Figure 51. Disconnecting the Bluetooth cable

Note: The Bluetooth cable connects the Bluetooth connector on the WiFi adapter card to the front USB
connector on the system board to support the Bluetooth function.
4. Remove the screw that secures the WiFi adapter card.

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

5. Grasp the WiFi adapter card that is currently installed and gently pull it out of the slot.

Figure 52. Removing the WiFi adapter card

Note: The card fits tightly into the card slot. If necessary, alternate moving each side of the card a
small amount until it is removed from the card slot.

Removing the WiFi card module
To remove the WiFi card module, do the following:
1. Remove the WiFi adapter card from the computer, and then disconnect the front and rear WiFi antenna
cables from the WiFi card module.

Figure 53. Removing the WiFi antenna cables

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

2. Remove the two screws that secure the WiFi card module to the WiFi adapter card.

Figure 54. Removing the screws that secure the WiFi card module

3. Pull the WiFi card module out of the mini PCI Express slot to remove it from the WiFi adapter card.

Figure 55. Removing the WiFi card module

Installing the WiFi units
To install the WiFi units, do the following:

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

1. Insert the WiFi card module into the mini PCI Express slot, and then install the two screws to secure
the WiFi card module to the WiFi adapter card.

Figure 56. Installing the WiFi card module

2. Connect the front antenna cable and rear antenna cable to the WiFi card module.

Figure 57. Connecting the WiFi antenna cables

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

3. Locate the two PCI Express x1 slots on the system board. See “Locating parts on the system board”
on page 13.
4. If the installed WiFi card module supports the Bluetooth function, use a Bluetooth cable to connect the
Bluetooth connector on the WiFi adapter card to the front USB connector on the system board.
5. Install the WiFi adapter card into one of the two PCI Express x1 slots. Then install the screw to secure
the WiFi adapter card in place.

Figure 58. Installing the WiFi adapter card

What to do next:
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.
• To complete the installation or replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 77.

Installing or removing the rear WiFi antenna
Attention:
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”
on page v.

This section provides instructions on how to install or remove the rear WiFi antenna.

Installing the rear WiFi antenna
To install the rear WiFi antenna, do the following:
1. Turn off the computer and disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets.
2. Install the rear WiFi antenna to the rear WiFi antenna cable connector attached on the rear of the
computer.

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

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

Figure 59. Installing the rear WiFi 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 77.

Removing the rear WiFi antenna
To remove the rear WiFi antenna, do the following:
1. Turn off the computer and disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets.
2. Straighten the rear WiFi antenna so that it can be more easily twisted.
3. Hold the thicker end of the rear WiFi antenna and unscrew the WiFi antenna from the rear of the
computer.

Figure 60. Removing the rear WiFi antenna

What to do next:
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.
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ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

• To complete the installation or replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 77.

Installing or removing the front WiFi antenna
Attention:
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”
on page v.

This section provides instructions on how to install or remove the front WiFi antenna.

Installing the front WiFi antenna
To install the front WiFi antenna, do the following:
1. Turn off the computer and disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets.
2. Remove the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 36.
3. Remove the front bezel. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on page 36.
4. Peel off the paper that protects the stickers on the front antenna.

Figure 61. Peeling off the paper that protects the stickers

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

5. Stick the front antenna to the front panel as shown. Then insert the front antenna cable through the
hole in the front panel.

Figure 62. Installing the front WiFi antenna

6. Connect the front antenna cable to the WiFi card 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 77.

Removing the front WiFi antenna
To remove the front WiFi antenna, do the following:
1. Turn off the computer and disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets.
2. Remove the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 36.
3. Remove the front bezel. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on page 36.
4. Disconnect the front antenna cable from the WiFi card module.

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

5. Remove the front antenna and cable from the front of the computer.

Figure 63. Removing the front WiFi 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 77.

Replacing the keyboard
Attention:
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”
on page v.

This section provides instructions on how to replace the keyboard.
To replace the keyboard, do the following:
1. Remove all media from the drives. Then, turn off all attached devices and the computer.
2. Disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets.
3. Disconnect the old keyboard cable from the computer.
4. Connect a new keyboard to the appropriate connector on the computer. Your keyboard might be
connected to a PS/2 keyboard connector 1 or a USB connector 2 . Depending on where you want
to connect your keyboard, see “Locating connectors, controls, and indicators on the front of your
computer” on page 9 or “Locating connectors on the rear of your computer” on page 10.

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

Figure 64. Keyboard connectors

What to do next:
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.
• To complete the replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 77.

Replacing the mouse
Attention:
Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”
on page v.

This section provides instructions on how to replace the mouse.
To replace the mouse, do the following:
1. Remove all media from the drives. Then, turn off all attached devices and the computer.
2. Disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets.
3. Disconnect the old mouse cable from the computer.
4. Connect a new mouse to the appropriate connector on the computer. Your mouse might be connected
to a PS/2 mouse connector 1 or a USB connector 2 . Depending on where you want to connect your
mouse, see “Locating connectors, controls, and indicators on the front of your computer” on page 9 or
“Locating connectors on the rear of your computer” on page 10.

Figure 65. Mouse connectors

What to do next:
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.
• To complete the replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 77.

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

Completing the parts replacement
After completing the installation or replacement for all parts, you need to close the computer cover and
reconnect cables. Depending on the parts you installed or replaced, you might need to confirm the updated
information in the Setup Utility program. Refer to Chapter 7 “Using the Setup Utility program” on page 89.
To reinstall the computer cover and reconnect cables to your computer, do the following:
1. Make sure that all components have been reassembled correctly and that no tools or loose screws
are left inside your computer. See “Locating components” on page 12 for the locations of various
components in your computer.
2. Make sure that the cables are routed correctly. Keep cables clear of the hinges and sides of the
computer chassis to avoid interference with closing the computer cover.
3. Lower the drive bay assembly. See “Accessing the system board components and drives” on page 38.
4. If you have removed the front bezel, reinstall it. To reinstall the front bezel, align the three tabs on
the front bezel with the corresponding holes in the chassis and pivot the front bezel inwards until
it snaps into position.
5. Position the computer cover on the chassis so that the rail guides on the computer cover engage the
rails on the chassis. Then, slide the computer cover to the front of the computer until it snaps into
position and is closed. Then, install the two screws to secure the computer cover.

Figure 66. Reinstalling the computer cover

6. If there is a padlock available, lock the computer cover. See “Locking the computer cover” on page 32.
7. If there is an integrated cable lock available, lock the computer. See “Attaching a Kensington-style
cable lock” on page 33.
8. Reconnect the external cables and power cords to the computer. See “Locating connectors on the
rear of your computer” on page 10.
9. To update your configuration, see Chapter 7 “Using the Setup Utility program” on page 89.
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.

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

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

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Chapter 6. Recovery information
This chapter provides information about the recovery solutions provided by Lenovo.
•

“Recovery information for the Windows 7 operating system” on page 79

•

“Recovery information for the Windows 8 or Windows 8.1 operating system” on page 85

•

“Recovery information for the Windows 10 operating system” on page 86

Recovery information for the Windows 7 operating system
This section contains the following topics:
• Creating and using recovery media
• Performing backup and recovery operations
• Using the Rescue and Recovery workspace
• Creating and using a rescue medium
• Installing or reinstalling device drivers
• Solving recovery problems
Notes:
1. The recovery information in this chapter only applies to the computers that have the Rescue and
Recovery program or the Product Recovery program installed. If the Enhanced Backup and Restore
icon in the Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools program is dimmed, it indicates that you need to install
the Rescue and Recovery program manually before enabling its features. To install the Rescue and
Recovery program, do the following:
a. Click Start ➙ All Programs ➙ Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools, and double-click Enhanced Backup
and Restore.
b. Follow the instructions on the screen.
c. When the installation process completes, the Enhanced Backup and Restore icon is activated.
2. There are a variety of methods to choose from when considering how to recover in the event of a
software- or hardware-related problem. Some methods vary depending on the type of operating system
that is installed.
3. The product on the recovery media may be used only for the following purposes:
• Restore the product preinstalled on your computer
• Reinstall the product
• Modify the product using the Additional Files

Creating and using recovery media
You can use recovery media to restore the hard disk drive to the factory default state. Recovery media are
useful if you transfer the computer to another area, sell the computer, recycle the computer, or put the
computer in an operational state after all other methods of recovery have failed. As a precautionary measure,
it is important to create recovery media as early as possible.
Note: The recovery operations you can perform using recovery media vary depending on the operating
system from which the recovery media were created. The recovery media might contain a boot medium
and a data medium. Your Microsoft Windows license permits you to create only one data medium, so it is
important that you store the recovery media in a safe place after you have made them.

Creating recovery media
This section provides instructions on how to create recovery media on different operating systems.
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
This section provides instructions on how to use recovery media.
On the Windows 7 operating system, you can use recovery media to restore the contents of the hard disk
drive to the factory default state. Also, you can use recovery media to put the computer in an operational
state after all other methods of hard disk drive recovery have failed.
Attention: When you use recovery media to restore the contents of the hard disk to the factory default state,
all the files currently on the hard disk drive will be deleted and replaced by the factory default files.
To use recovery media on the Windows 7 operating system, do the following:
1. Depending on the type of your recovery media, connect the boot medium (memory key or other USB
storage device) to the computer, or insert the boot disc into the optical drive.
2. Repeatedly press and release the F12 key when turning on the computer. When the Please select
boot device window opens, release the F12 key.
3. Select the desired startup device and press Enter. The restore process begins.
4. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the operation.
Note: After restoring your computer hard disk drive to the factory default state, you might have to reinstall
device drivers for some devices. See “Reinstalling device drivers” on page 84.

Performing backup and recovery operations
The Rescue and Recovery program enables you to back up all your hard disk drive contents including the
operating system, data files, software programs, and personal settings. You can designate where the
Rescue and Recovery program stores the backup:
• In a protected area of your hard disk drive
• On the secondary hard disk drive if a secondary hard disk drive is installed in your computer
• On an attached external USB hard disk drive
• On a network drive
• On recordable discs (a recordable optical drive is required for this option)
After you have backed up the contents of the hard disk drive, you can restore the complete contents of the
hard disk drive, restore selected files only, or restore the Windows operating system and applications only
while keeping the other data on your hard disk drive.

Performing a backup operation
This section provides instructions on how to perform a backup operation using the Rescue and Recovery
program.
To perform a backup operation using the Rescue and Recovery program on the Windows 7 operating
system, do the following:

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1. From the Windows desktop, click Start ➙ All Programs ➙ Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools ➙ Enhanced
Backup and Restore. The Rescue and Recovery program opens.
2. In the Rescue and Recovery main window, click the Launch advanced Rescue and Recovery arrow.
3. Click Back up your hard drive and select backup operation options. Then, follow the instructions on
the screen to complete the backup operation.

Performing a recovery operation
This section provides instructions on how to perform a recovery operation using the Rescue and Recovery
program.
To perform a recovery operation using the Rescue and Recovery program on the Windows 7 operating
system, do the following:
1. From the Windows desktop, click Start ➙ All Programs ➙ Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools ➙ Enhanced
Backup and Restore. The Rescue and Recovery program opens.
2. In the Rescue and Recovery main window, click the Launch advanced Rescue and Recovery arrow.
3. Click the Restore your system from a backup icon.
4. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the recovery operation.
For more information about performing a recovery operation from the Rescue and Recovery workspace, see
“Using the Rescue and Recovery workspace” on page 81.

Using the Rescue and Recovery workspace
The Rescue and Recovery workspace resides in a protected, hidden area of your hard disk drive that
operates independently from the Windows operating system. This enables you to perform recovery
operations even if you cannot start the Windows operating system. You can perform the following recovery
operations from the Rescue and Recovery workspace:
• Rescue files from your hard disk drive or from a backup: The Rescue and Recovery workspace enables
you to locate files on your hard disk drive and transfer them to a network drive or other recordable media,
such as a USB device or a disc. This solution is available even if you did not back up your files or if
changes were made to the files since your last backup operation. You can also rescue individual files from
a Rescue and Recovery backup located on your local hard disk drive, a USB device, or a network drive.
• Restore your hard disk drive from a Rescue and Recovery backup: If you have backed up your hard disk
drive using the Rescue and Recovery program, you can restore the hard disk drive from a Rescue and
Recovery backup, even if you cannot start the Windows operating system.
• Restore your hard disk drive to the factory default state: The Rescue and Recovery workspace enables
you to restore the complete contents of your hard disk drive to the factory default state. If you have
multiple partitions on your hard disk drive, you have the option to restore the C: partition and leave the
other partitions intact. Because the Rescue and Recovery workspace operates independently from
the Windows operating system, you can restore the hard disk drive to the factory default state even if
you cannot start the Windows operating system.
Attention: If you restore the hard disk drive from a Rescue and Recovery backup or restore the hard disk
drive to the factory default settings, all files on the primary hard disk drive partition (usually drive C:) will be
deleted in the recovery process. If possible, make copies of important files. If you are unable to start the
Windows operating system, you can use the rescue files feature of the Rescue and Recovery workspace to
copy files from your hard disk drive to other media.
To start the Rescue and Recovery workspace, do the following:
1. Make sure the computer is turned off.

Chapter 6. Recovery information

2. Repeatedly press and release the F11 key when turning on the computer. When you hear beeps or
see a logo screen, release the F11 key.
3. If you have set a Rescue and Recovery password, type your password when prompted. The Rescue
and Recovery workspace opens after a short delay.
Note: If the Rescue and Recovery workspace fails to open, see “Solving recovery problems” on page 84.
4. Do one of the following:
• To rescue files from your hard disk drive or from a backup, click Rescue files and follow the
instructions on the screen.
• To restore your hard disk drive from a Rescue and Recovery backup or to restore your hard disk drive
to the factory default settings, click Restore your system and follow the instructions on the screen.
For more information about the features of the Rescue and Recovery workspace, click Help.
Note: After restoring your hard disk drive to the factory default state, you might have to reinstall device
drivers for some devices. See “Reinstalling device drivers” on page 84.

Creating and using a rescue medium
With a rescue medium, such as a disc or a USB hard disk drive, you can recover the computer from failures
that prevent you from gaining access to the Rescue and Recovery workspace on your hard disk drive.
Notes:
• 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
This section provides instructions on how to create a rescue medium.
To create a rescue medium on the Windows 7 operating system, do the following:
1. From the Windows desktop, click Start ➙ All Programs ➙ Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools ➙ Enhanced
Backup and Restore. The Rescue and Recovery program opens.
2. In the Rescue and Recovery main window, click the Launch advanced Rescue and Recovery arrow.
3. Click the Create Rescue Media icon. The Create Rescue and Recovery Media window opens.
4. In the Rescue Media area, select the type of the rescue medium you want to create. You can create a
rescue medium using a disc, a USB hard disk drive, or a secondary internal hard disk drive.
5. Click OK and follow the instructions on the screen to create a rescue medium.

Using a rescue medium
This section provides instructions on how to use the rescue medium you have created.
• If you have created a rescue medium using a disc, use the following instructions to use the rescue medium:
1. Turn off your computer.
2. Repeatedly press and release the F12 key when turning on the computer. When the Please select
boot device window opens, release the F12 key.
3. In the Please select boot device window, select the desired optical drive as the first boot device.
Then, insert the rescue disc into the optical drive and press Enter. The rescue medium starts.
• If you have created a rescue medium using a USB hard disk drive, use the following instructions to
use the rescue medium:
1. Attach the USB hard disk drive to one of the USB connectors on your computer.

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2. Repeatedly press and release the F12 key when turning on the computer. When the Please select
boot device window opens, release the F12 key.
3. In the Please select boot device window, select the USB hard disk drive as the first boot device and
press Enter. The rescue medium starts.
When the rescue medium starts, the Rescue and Recovery workspace opens. The help information for
each feature is available from the Rescue and Recovery workspace. Follow the instructions to complete
the recovery process.

Reinstalling preinstalled applications and device drivers
Your computer has provisions that enable you to reinstall selected factory-installed applications and device
drivers.
Reinstalling preinstalled applications
This section provides instructions on how to reinstall preinstalled applications.
To reinstall the selected applications preinstalled on your Lenovo computer, do the following:
1. Turn on the computer.
2. Use Windows Explorer or Computer to display the directory structure of your hard disk drive.
3. Go to the C:\SWTOOLS directory.
4. Open the apps folder. Within the apps folder, there are several subfolders named for various applications
installed in your computer.
5. Open the appropriate application subfolder.
6. In the application subfolder, look for a SETUP.EXE file or other appropriate EXE files for setup.
Double-click the file and follow the instructions on the screen to complete the installation.
Reinstalling preinstalled device drivers
This section provides instructions on how to reinstall preinstalled device drivers.
Attention: When you reinstall device drivers, you are changing the current configuration of your computer.
Reinstall device drivers only when it is necessary to correct a problem with your computer.
To reinstall the device driver for a factory-installed device, do the following:
1. Turn on the computer.
2. Use Windows Explorer or Computer to display the directory structure of your hard disk drive.
3. Go to the C:\SWTOOLS directory.
4. Open the DRIVERS folder. Within the DRIVERS folder, there are several subfolders named for various
devices installed in your computer, such as AUDIO or VIDEO.
5. Open the appropriate device subfolder.
6. Do one of the following:
• In the device subfolder, look for a SETUP.exe file. Double-click the file and follow the instructions on
the screen to complete the installation.
• In the device subfolder, look for a README.txt file or a file with the .txt extension. This file might be
named after the operating system, such as WIN98.txt. The TXT file contains information about how to
install the device driver. Follow the instructions to complete the installation.
• If the device subfolder contains a file with the .inf extension and you want to install the device driver
using the INF file, refer to your Windows help system for detailed information about how to install
the device driver.
Chapter 6. Recovery information

Note: If you need updated device drivers, see “Getting the latest device drivers for your computer” on
page 97 for more information.

Reinstalling software programs
If a software program you installed on your computer is not working correctly, you might need to remove
and reinstall it. Reinstalling overwrites the existing programs files and usually fixes any problems that
you might have had with that program.
To remove a program in your system, see Microsoft Windows help system for detailed information.
To reinstall the program, do one of the following:
Note: The method of reinstalling a program varies from program to program. Refer to the documentation
provided with the program to see if your program has special installation instructions.
• To reinstall most commercially available programs in your system, see Microsoft Windows help system
for more information.
• To reinstall selected application programs that came preinstalled from Lenovo, do the following:
1. Turn on the computer.
2. Use Windows Explorer or Computer to display the directory structure of your hard disk drive.
3. Go to the C:\SWTOOLS directory.
4. Open the APPS folder. Within the APPS folder, there are several subfolders named for various
applications installed in your computer.
5. Open the appropriate application subfolder.
6. In the application subfolder, look for a SETUP.EXE file or other appropriate EXE files for setup.
Double-click the file and follow the instructions on the screen to complete the installation.

Reinstalling device drivers
To reinstall a device driver for an option you installed, refer to the documentation that comes with the option.
When you reinstall device drivers, you are changing the current configuration of your computer. Reinstall
device drivers only when it is necessary to correct a problem with your computer.
For more information about reinstalling device drivers that came with your computer, see “Reinstalling
preinstalled applications and device drivers” on page 83.

Solving recovery problems
If you are unable to access the Rescue and Recovery workspace or the Windows environment, do one
of the following:
• Use a rescue medium to start the Rescue and Recovery workspace. See “Creating and using a rescue
medium” on page 82.
• Use recovery media if all other methods of recovery have failed and you need to restore the hard disk
drive to the factory default settings. See “Creating and using recovery media” on page 79.
Note: If you are unable to access the Rescue and Recovery workspace or the Windows environment from
a rescue medium or recovery media, you might not have the rescue device (an internal hard disk drive, a
disc, a USB hard disk drive, or other external devices) set as the first boot device in the startup device
sequence. You must first make sure that your rescue device is set as the first boot device in the startup
device sequence in the Setup Utility program. See “Selecting a startup device” on page 91 for detailed
information about temporarily or permanently changing the startup device sequence. For more information
about the Setup Utility program, see Chapter 7 “Using the Setup Utility program” on page 89.
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It is important to create a rescue medium and a set of recovery media as early as possible and store them
in a safe place for future use.

Recovery information for the Windows 8 or Windows 8.1 operating
system
This section provides information about the recovery solutions provided on computers preinstalled with
the Windows 8 or Windows 8.1 operating system.

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 without losing your personal files or changing your settings.
Attention: If you refresh your computer, the programs that came with your computer and the programs that
you installed from Windows Store will be reinstalled, but all other programs will be removed.
To refresh your computer, do one of the following:
• For Windows 8:
1. Move the pointer to the top-right or bottom-right corner of the screen to display the charms. Click
Settings ➙ Change PC settings ➙ General.
2. In the Refresh your PC without affecting your files section, click Get started.
• 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 ➙ 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 reinstall all the programs and settings that came 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 one of the following:
• For Windows 8:
1. Move the pointer to the top-right or bottom-right corner of the screen to display the charms. Click
Settings ➙ Change PC settings ➙ General.
2. In the Remove everything and reinstall Windows section, click Get started.
• 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 ➙ 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:
Chapter 6. Recovery information

• For Windows 8:
1. Move the pointer to the top-right or bottom-right corner of the screen to display the charms. Click
Settings ➙ Change PC settings ➙ General.
2. In the Advanced startup section, click Restart now ➙ Troubleshoot ➙ Advanced options.
3. Restart your computer following the instructions on the screen.
• 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 ➙ 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 or Windows 8.1 fails
to start
The Windows recovery environment on your computer is capable of operating independently from the
Windows 8 or Windows 8.1 operating system. This enables you to recover or repair the operating system
even if the Windows 8 or 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
or Windows 8.1 operating system, refer to the help information system of the Windows 8 or Windows
8.1 operating system.

Recovery information for the Windows 10 operating system
To recover your Windows 10 operating system, use the following solutions:
• Use Windows recovery solutions.
– Use recovery solutions in Windows Settings.
1. Click the Start button to open the Start menu.
2. Click Settings ➙ Update & security ➙ Recovery.
3. Choose the appropriate recovery solution by following the instructions on the screen.
– Use System Restore to restore system files and settings to an earlier point.
1. Right-click the Start button to open the Start context menu.
2. Click Control Panel. View Control Panel using Large icons or Small icons, and then click
Recovery ➙ Open System Restore.
3. Follow the instructions on the screen.
– Use the File History tool to restore your files from a backup.
Note: If you use the File History tool to restore your files from a backup, ensure that you backed up
your data earlier with the tool.
1. Right-click the Start button to open the Start context menu.
2. Click Control Panel. View Control Panel using Large icons or Small icons, and then click File
History ➙ Restore personal files.
3. Follow the instructions on the screen.
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– Use the Windows recovery environment by doing one of the following:
– After several consecutive failed boot attempts, the Windows recovery environment might start
automatically. Follow the instructions on the screen to choose the appropriate recovery solution.
– Select the recovery medium you created earlier with the Windows tool as the startup device. See
“Selecting a temporary startup device” on page 92. Then, follow the instructions on the screen
to choose the appropriate recovery solution.
Note: To create a recovery medium, see “Good maintenance practices” on page 99.
• Use the recovery USB key provided by Lenovo to restore the entire storage drive to the factory-default
settings.
– If your computer comes with the recovery USB key, follow the instructions shipped with the USB key.
– If your computer does not come with the recovery USB key, contact the Lenovo Customer
Support Center to order a recovery USB key. For a list of Lenovo Support phone numbers, go to
http://www.lenovo.com/support/phone. If you cannot find the support telephone number for your
country or region, contact your Lenovo reseller.

Chapter 6. Recovery information

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Chapter 7. Using the Setup Utility program
The Setup Utility program is used to view and change the configuration settings of your computer, regardless
of which operating system you are using. However, the operating system settings might override any similar
settings in the Setup Utility program.

Starting the Setup Utility program
To start the Setup Utility program, do the following:
1. Make sure your computer is turned off.
2. Repeatedly press and release the F1 key when turning on the computer. When you hear multiple
beeps or see a logo screen, release the F1 key.
Note: If a Power-On Password or an Administrator Password has been set, the Setup Utility program
menu will not be displayed until you type the correct password. For more information, see “Using
BIOS passwords” on page 89.
When the POST detects that the hard disk drive has been removed from your computer or the memory
module size has decreased, an error message will be displayed when you start the computer and you will be
prompted to do one of the following:
• Press F1 to enter the Setup Utility program.
Note: After you enter the Setup Utility program, 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 and memory module size decrease. 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 89. Then, follow
the instructions on the screen.
You can use either the keyboard or the mouse to navigate through BIOS menu choices. The keys used to
perform various tasks are displayed at the bottom of each screen.

Using 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
computing security. If you decide to set any passwords, read the following sections.

Password considerations
A password can be any combination of up to 64 alphabetic and numeric characters. For security reasons, it
is recommended to use a strong password that cannot be easily compromised. To set a strong password,
use the following guidelines:
• Have at least eight characters in length
• Contain at least one alphabetic character and one numeric character
• Setup Utility program and hard disk passwords are not case sensitive
• Not be your name or your user name
• Not be a common word or a common name
• Be significantly different from your previous passwords

Power-On Password
When a Power-On Password is set, you are prompted to type a valid password each time the computer is
turned on. The computer cannot be used until the valid password is typed in.

Administrator Password
Setting an Administrator Password deters unauthorized users from changing configuration settings. If you
are responsible for maintaining the configuration settings of several computers, you might want to set an
Administrator Password.
When an Administrator Password is set, you are prompted to type a valid password each time you try to
access the Setup Utility program. The Setup Utility program cannot be accessed until a valid password
is typed in.
If both the Power-On Password and Administrator Password are set, you can type either password. However,
you must use your Administrator Password to change any configuration settings.

Hard Disk Password
Setting a Hard Disk Password prevents unauthorized access to the data on the hard disk drive. When a
Hard Disk Password is set, you are prompted to type a valid password each time you try to access the
hard disk drive.
Notes:
• After you set a Hard Disk Password, your data on the hard disk drive is protected even if the hard disk
drive is removed from one computer and installed in another.
• If the Hard Disk Password is forgotten, there is no way to reset the password or recover data from the
hard disk drive.

Setting, changing, and deleting a password
To set, change, or delete a password, do the following:
1. Start the Setup Utility program. See “Starting the Setup Utility program” on page 89.
2. From the Setup Utility program main menu, select Security.
3. Depending on the password type, select Set Power-On Password, Set Administrator Password, or
Hard Disk Password.

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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 90.

Erasing lost or forgotten passwords (clearing CMOS)
This section provides instructions on how to erase lost or forgotten passwords, such as a user password.
To erase a lost or forgotten password, do the following:
1. Remove all media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer. Then, disconnect
all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables that are connected to the computer.
2. Open the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 36.
3. Locate the Clear CMOS /Recovery jumper on the system board. See “Locating parts on the system
board” on page 13.
4. Move the jumper from the standard position (pin 1 and pin 2) to the maintenance position (pin 2 and
pin 3).
5. Close the computer cover and connect the power cord. See “Completing the parts replacement”
on page 77.
6. Turn on the computer and leave it on for approximately 10 seconds. When you hear short beeps, turn
off the computer by holding the power switch for approximately five seconds.
7. Repeat step 1 through step 3.
8. Move the Clear CMOS /Recovery jumper back to the standard position (pin 1 and pin 2).
9. Close the computer cover and connect the power cord. See “Completing the parts replacement”
on page 77.

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

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

SATA Controller

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

To enable or disable a device, do the following:
1. Start the Setup Utility program. See “Starting the Setup Utility program” on page 89.
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 and exit the Setup Utility program. See “Exiting from the Setup Utility program”
on page 94.

Selecting a startup device
If your computer does not start up from a device such as the disc or hard disk drive as expected, do one of
the following to select the startup device you want.
Chapter 7. Using the Setup Utility program

Selecting a temporary startup device
Use this procedure to select a temporary startup device.
Note: Not all discs and hard disk drives are bootable.
1. Turn off your computer.
2. Repeatedly press and release the F12 key when turning on the computer. When the Please select
boot device window displays, release the F12 key.
3. Select the desired startup device and press Enter. The computer will start up from the device you
selected.
Note: Selecting a startup device from the Please select boot device 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 89.
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 and exit the Setup Utility program. See “Exiting from the Setup Utility program”
on page 94.

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. Make sure your computer is turned off.
2. Repeatedly press and release the F1 key when turning on the computer. When you hear multiple beeps
or see a logo screen, release the F1 key. The Setup Utility program starts.
Note: If a Power-On Password or an Administrator Password has been set, the Setup Utility program
main menu will not be displayed until you type the correct password.
3. From the Setup Utility program main menu, select Power ➙ Enhanced Power Saving Mode, and
press Enter.
4. Select Enabled and press Enter.
5. From the Power menu, select Automatic Power On and press Enter.
6. Select Wake on Lan and press Enter.
7. Select Disabled and press Enter.
8. Press F10 to save changes and exit the Setup Utility program. Press Enter when prompted to confirm
the exit.
Note: When ErP LPS compliance mode is enabled, you can wake up your computer by doing one of
the following:

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

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

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 89.
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 from the Setup Utility
program” on page 94.

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

Chapter 7. Using the Setup Utility program

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 89.
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 from the Setup Utility
program” on page 94.

Exiting from 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 and exit the Setup Utility program.
• If you do not want to save the settings, select Exit ➙ Discard Changes and Exit.
• If you want to return to the default settings, press F9 to load the default settings.

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Chapter 8. Updating system programs
This chapter provides information about updating the POST and BIOS, and how to recover from a POST
and BIOS update failure.

Using system programs
System programs are the basic layer of software built into your computer. System programs include the
POST, the BIOS, and the Setup Utility program. The POST is a set of tests and procedures that are
performed each time you turn on your computer. The BIOS is a layer of software that translates instructions
from other layers of software into electrical signals that the computer hardware can execute. You can use
the Setup Utility program to view or change the configuration settings of your computer. See Chapter 7
“Using the Setup Utility program” on page 89 for detailed information.
Your computer system board has a module called electrically erasable programmable read-only memory
(EEPROM, also referred to as flash memory). You can easily update the POST, the BIOS, and the Setup
Utility program by starting your computer with a system-program-update disc or running a special update
program from your operating system.
Lenovo might make changes and enhancements to the POST and BIOS. When updates are released, they
are available as downloadable files on the Lenovo Web site at http://www.lenovo.com. Instructions for using
the POST and BIOS updates are available in a TXT file that is included with the update files. For most
models, you can download either an update program to create a system-program-update disc or an update
program that can be run from the operating system.

Updating the BIOS
When you install a new program, hardware device, or device driver, you might be informed to update
the BIOS. You can update the BIOS from your operating system or a flash update disc (supported only
on some models).
To update the BIOS, do the following:
1. Go to http://www.lenovo.com/drivers.
2. Download the flash BIOS update driver for the operating system version or the ISO image version (used
to create a flash update disc). Then, download the installation instructions for the flash BIOS update
driver you download.
3. Print the installation instructions you download and follow the instructions to update the BIOS.
Note: If you want to update the BIOS from a flash update disc, the installation instructions might not provide
the information about how to record the update disc. See “Recording a CD or DVD” on page 23.

Recovering from a POST/BIOS update failure
If the power to your computer is interrupted while the POST and BIOS is being updated, your computer
might not restart correctly. If this happens, perform the following procedure to recover from the POST and
BIOS update failure. This procedure is commonly called Boot-block Recovery.
1. Remove all media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer. Then, disconnect
all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables that are connected to the computer.
2. Open the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 36.
3. Locate the Clear CMOS /Recovery jumper on the system board. See “Locating parts on the system
board” on page 13.
© Copyright Lenovo 2013, 2016

4. Remove any cables that impede access to the Clear CMOS /Recovery jumper.
5. Move the jumper from the standard position (pin 1 and pin 2) to the maintenance position (pin 2 and
pin 3).
6. Reconnect any cables that were disconnected and reinstall the PCI card if removed.
7. Close the computer cover and reconnect the power cords for the computer and monitor to electrical
outlets. See “Completing the parts replacement” on page 77.
8. Turn on the computer and then insert the POST and BIOS update (flash update) disc into the optical
drive. Wait a few minutes. Then, the recovery session begins. The recovery session will take two to
three minutes. During this time, a warning message will be displayed and no action is needed from you.
9. After the recovery session is completed, there will be no video, and your computer will automatically
turn off.
10. Repeat step 1 through step 4.
11. Move the Clear CMOS /Recovery jumper back to the standard position (pin 1 and pin 2).
12. Reconnect any cables that were disconnected and reinstall the PCI card if removed.
13. Close the computer cover and reconnect any cables that were disconnected.
14. Turn on the computer to restart the operating system.

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Chapter 9. Preventing problems
This chapter provides information that can help you avoid common problems and keep your computer
running smoothly.

Keeping your computer current
In some situations you may find it necessary to have the most current software programs, device drivers, or
operating system. This section explains how to get the latest updates for your computer.
Select any of the following topics:
•

“Getting the latest device drivers for your computer” on page 97

•

“Getting the latest system updates” on page 97

Getting the latest device drivers for your computer
Attention: Reinstalling device drivers will change the current configuration of your computer.
To get the latest device drivers for your computer, do one of the following:
• Download the device drivers that are preinstalled on your computer. Go to http://www.lenovo.com/drivers.
• Use the Lenovo program or Windows Update. See “Getting the latest system updates” on page 97.
Note: The device drivers provided by Windows Update might not be tested by Lenovo. It is recommended
that you get device drivers from Lenovo.

Getting the latest system updates
To get the latest system updates for your computer, ensure that your computer is connected to the Internet
and do one of the following:
• Use the System Update or Lenovo Companion program provided by Lenovo to get the system updates,
such as device driver updates, software updates, and BIOS updates.
Note: The Lenovo Companion program is not available on Windows 7 computer models.
To open the System Update or Lenovo Companion program. See “Accessing a program on your
computer” on page 5. For more information about using the program, refer to the help system of the
program.
• Use Windows Update to get the system updates, such as security fixes, new versions of Windows
components, and device driver updates.
1. Depending on your Windows version, do one of the following:
– For Windows 7: Click the Start button to open the Start menu, and then click Control Panel. View
Control Panel using Large icons or Small icons, and then click Windows Update.
– For Windows 8 or Windows 8.1: Move the pointer to the top-right or bottom-right corner of the
screen to display the charms. Then, click Settings ➙ Change PC settings ➙ Update and
recovery ➙ Windows Update.
– For Windows 10: Click the Start button to open the Start menu. Then, click Settings ➙ Update &
security ➙ Windows Update.
2. Follow the instructions on the screen.

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

“Basics” on page 98

•

“Cleaning your computer” on page 98

•

–

“Computer” on page 98

–

“Keyboard” on page 98

–

“Optical mouse” on page 99

–

“Display screen” on page 99

“Good maintenance practices” on page 99

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

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

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

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

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Optical mouse
This section provides instructions on how to clean an optical mouse.
An optical mouse uses a light-emitting diode (LED) and an optical sensor to navigate the pointer. If the
pointer on the screen does not move smoothly with the optical mouse, you might need to clean the mouse.
To clean an optical mouse, do the following:
1. Turn off your computer.
2. Disconnect the mouse cable from the computer.
3. Turn the mouse upside down to check the lens.
a. If there is a smudge on the lens, gently clean the area with a plain cotton-tipped swab.
b. If there is debris in the lens, gently blow the debris away from the area.
4. Check the surface on which you are using the mouse. If you have a very intricate picture or pattern
beneath the mouse, it may be difficult for the digital signal processor (DSP) to determine changes
in the mouse position.
5. Reconnect the mouse cable to the computer.
6. Turn your computer back on.

Display screen
Dust buildup compounds problems associated with glare. Remember to clean your monitor screen
periodically. See “Cleaning a flat-panel monitor surface” on page 99 or “Cleaning a glass-screen surface”
on page 99.
Cleaning a flat-panel monitor surface
If you have a flat-panel computer display that has a flexible film surface, do the following to clean the special
surface. Wipe it gently with a soft, dry cloth, or blow on the screen to remove grit and other loose particles.
Then moisten a cloth with LCD cleaner and wipe the screen surface.
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.
• Keep your computer software, device drivers, and operating system up-to-date. See “Keeping your
computer current ” on page 97.
• Empty your recycle bin on a regular basis.
• Clean out your Inbox, Sent Items, and Deleted Items folders in your e-mail application on a regular basis.
• Clean up files and free up storage drive space and memory space occasionally to prevent performance
problems. See “Performance and lockup problems” on page 116.
• 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.

Chapter 9. Preventing problems

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 determine the cause of a problem.
• Back up your data on the storage drive regularly. You can restore the storage drive from a backup.
To back up your data, do one of the following:
– For Windows 7: Open the Rescue and Recovery program. See “Accessing a program on your
computer” on page 5. For more information about backing up your data, refer to the help system
of the program.
– For Windows 8 or Windows 8.1: Open Control Panel. View Control Panel using Large icons or Small
icons, and then click File History. Follow the instructions on the screen.
Note: For detailed information on how to open Control Panel on Windows 8 and Windows 8.1, see
“Accessing Control Panel on the Windows 8 or Windows 8.1 operating system” on page 20.
– For Windows 10: Right-click the Start button to open the Start context menu, and then click Control
Panel. View Control Panel using Large icons or Small icons, and then click File History. Follow the
instructions on the screen.
• Create a recovery medium as early as possible. You can use the recovery medium to recover your
operating system even if Windows fails to start up.
To create a recovery medium, do one of the following:
– For Windows 7: Open the Create Recovery Media program. See “Accessing a program on your
computer” on page 5. For more information about creating a recovery medium, refer to the help
system of the program.
– For Windows 8 or Windows 8.1: Open Control Panel. View Control Panel using Large icons or Small
icons, and then click Recovery. Follow the instructions on the screen.
Note: For detailed information on how to open Control Panel on Windows 8 and Windows 8.1, see
“Accessing Control Panel on the Windows 8 or Windows 8.1 operating system” on page 20.
– For Windows 10: Right-click the Start button to open the Start context menu, and then click Control
Panel. View Control Panel using Large icons or Small icons, and then click Recovery. Follow the
instructions on the screen.
• For Windows 7, create a rescue medium as early as possible. You can use the rescue medium to
recover from failures that prevent you from gaining access to the Rescue and Recovery workspace
on your storage drive.
To create a rescue medium, open the Rescue and Recovery program. See “Accessing a program on your
computer” on page 5. For more information about creating a rescue medium, refer to the help system
of the program.

Moving your computer
Take the following precautions before moving your computer.
1. Back up all files and data from the hard disk drive. There are a variety of backup programs available
commercially. Your operating system also might have a backup program that you can use. Lenovo
provides the Rescue and Recovery program to help you back up and restore data. See “Performing
backup and recovery operations” on page 80 for more information.
2. Remove all media (diskettes, compact discs, tapes, and so on) from the drives.
3. Turn off the computer and all attached devices. Your hard disk drive automatically parks the read/write
head in a nondata area. This prevents damage to the hard disk drive.
4. Unplug the power cords from electrical outlets.
5. Disconnect communication cables, such as modem or network cables, from the outlets first, and then
disconnect the other ends from the computer.

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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.

Chapter 9. Preventing problems

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Chapter 10. Troubleshooting and diagnostics
This chapter describes some basic troubleshooting and diagnostic program. If your computer problem is
not described here, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and service” on page 121 for additional
troubleshooting resources.

Basic troubleshooting
The following table provides information to help you troubleshoot your computer problems.
Note: If you cannot correct the problem, have the computer serviced. For a list of service and support
telephone numbers, refer to the 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
switch.

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

The monitor screen is blank.

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

The keyboard does not work.

Verify that:
• The computer is turned on.
• The keyboard is securely connected to a USB connector on the computer.
• No keys are stuck.

The mouse does not work.

Verify that:
• The computer is turned on.
• The mouse is securely connected to a USB connector on the computer.
• The mouse is clean. Refer to “Optical mouse” on page 99 for further information.

103

Symptom

Action

The operating system does not
start.

Verify that:

The computer beeps multiple
times before the operating
system starts.

Verify that no keys are stuck.

• 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 91.

Troubleshooting procedure
Use the following procedure as a starting point for diagnosing problems you are experiencing with your
computer:
1. Verify that the cables for all attached devices are connected correctly and securely.
2. Verify that all attached devices that require ac power are connected to properly grounded, functioning
electrical outlets.
3. Verify that all attached devices are enabled in the BIOS settings of your computer. For more information
about accessing and changing the BIOS settings, refer to your Chapter 7 “Using the Setup Utility
program” on page 89.
4. Go to the “Troubleshooting” on page 105 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:
a. Open Control Panel by doing one of the following:
• For Windows 7: Click the Start button to open the Start menu, and then click Control Panel.
• For Windows 8 or Windows 8.1: See “Accessing Control Panel on the Windows 8 or Windows
8.1 operating system” on page 20.
• For Windows 10: Right-click the Start button to open the Start context menu, and then click
Control Panel.
b. View Control Panel using Large icons or Small icons, and then click Recovery ➙ Open System
Restore.
c. Follow the instructions on the screen.
If this does not correct the problem, continue with the next step.
6. Run the diagnostic program. See “Lenovo Solution Center” on page 120 for more information.
• If the diagnostic program detects a hardware failure, contact the Lenovo Customer Support Center.
See Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and service” on page 121 for more information.
• If you are unable to run the diagnostic program, contact the Lenovo Customer Support Center. See
Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and service” on page 121 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 11 “Getting
information, help, and service” on page 121 for more information.

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Troubleshooting
Use the troubleshooting information to find solutions to problems that have definite symptoms.
If the symptom your computer is experiencing occurred immediately after you installed a new hardware
option or new software, do the following before referring to the troubleshooting information:
1. Remove the new hardware option or software. If you must remove the computer cover to remove a
hardware option, make sure you review and follow the electrical safety information provided with your
computer. For your safety, do not operate the computer with the cover removed.
2. Run the diagnostic program to ensure your computer is operating correctly.
3. Reinstall the new hardware option or software following the manufacturer's instructions.
Select the problem your computer is experiencing from the following list:
•

“Audio problems” on page 105

•

“CD problems” on page 106

•

“DVD problems” on page 107

•

“Intermittent problems” on page 109

•

“Keyboard, mouse, or pointing device problems” on page 109

•

“Monitor problems” on page 111

•

“Networking problems” on page 112

•

“Option problems” on page 115

•

“Performance and lockup problems” on page 116

•

“Printer problems” on page 117

•

“Serial port problems” on page 118

•

“Software problems” on page 118

•

“USB problems” on page 119

Audio problems
Select your symptom from the following list:
•
•

“No audio in Windows” on page 105
“An audio disc or AutoPlay-enabled disc does not automatically play when it is inserted into a drive”
on page 106

•

“Sound comes from one external speaker only” on page 106

•

“No audio in DOS applications or games” on page 106

No audio in Windows
Symptom: No audio in Windows
Actions:
• If you are using powered external speakers that have an On/Off control, verify that the On/Off control is
set to the On position and the speaker power cable is connected to a properly grounded, functional ac
electrical outlet.
• If your external speakers have a volume control, verify that the volume control is not set too low.
• Double-click the speaker icon in the Windows notification area. A master volume-control window opens.
Verify that the Mute settings are not checked and none of the volume settings is set too low.
Chapter 10. Troubleshooting and diagnostics

105

• Some models have a front audio panel you can use to adjust volume. If you have a front audio panel,
verify that the volume is not set too low.
• Verify that your external speakers (and headphones, if used) are connected to the correct audio connector
on the computer. Most speaker cables are color-coded to match the connector.
Note: When external-speaker or headphone cables are attached to the audio connector, the internal
speaker, if present, is disabled. In most cases, if an audio adapter is installed in one of the expansion slots,
the audio function built into the system board is disabled; use the audio jacks on the adapter.
• Make sure that the program you are running is designed for use in the Microsoft Windows operating
system. If the program is designed to run in DOS, the program does not use the Windows sound feature
and must be configured to use SoundBlaster Pro or SoundBlaster emulation.
• Verify that the audio device drivers are correctly installed. See Microsoft Windows help system for
more information.
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the Lenovo Solution Center program. If you need technical
assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and service” on page 121.

An audio disc or AutoPlay-enabled disc does not automatically play when it is
inserted into a drive
Symptom: An audio disc or AutoPlay-enabled disc does not automatically play when it is inserted into a drive
Action: See “CD problems” on page 106.

Sound comes from one external speaker only
Symptom: Sound comes from one external speaker only.
Actions:
• Ensure that the speaker cable is inserted completely into the connector on the computer.
• Make sure the cable that attaches the left speaker to the right speaker is securely connected.
• Double-click the speaker icon in the Windows notification area. A master volume-control window opens.
Verify that the Balance settings are set correctly.
If these actions do not correct the problem, you might have a failing speaker. Have the speaker serviced. If
you need technical assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and service” on page 121.

No audio in DOS applications or games
Symptom: No audio in DOS applications or games
Actions:
• Make sure the DOS application or game is configured to use SoundBlaster Pro or SoundBlaster
emulation. Refer to the documentation that comes with the application or game for instructions on
setting sound-card settings.
• If these actions do not correct the problem, run the Lenovo Solution Center program. If you need technical
assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and service” on page 121.

CD problems
Select your symptom from the following list:
•

“An audio disc or AutoPlay-enabled disc does not automatically play when it is inserted into a CD
drive” on page 107

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•
•

“A CD or DVD does not work” on page 107
“Unable to use a startable (bootable) recovery medium, such as the Product Recovery CD, to start
your computer” on page 107

An audio disc or AutoPlay-enabled disc does not automatically play when it is
inserted into a CD drive
Symptom: An audio disc or AutoPlay-enabled disc does not automatically play when it is inserted into
a CD drive.
Actions:
• If you have multiple CD or DVD drives installed (or a combination of CD and DVD drives), try inserting the
disc into the other drive. In some cases, only one of the drives is connected to the audio subsystem.
• If you are using the Windows 7 operating system, follow the action for “A CD or DVD does not work” on
page 107.
If this does not correct the problem, follow the action for “A CD or DVD does not work” on page 107.

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

Unable to use a startable (bootable) recovery medium, such as the Product Recovery
CD, to start your computer
Symptom: Unable to use a startable (bootable) recovery medium, such as the Product Recovery CD,
to start your computer.
Action: Make sure that the CD or DVD drive is in the startup sequence before the hard disk drive. Refer
to your “Selecting or changing the startup device sequence” on page 92 for information on viewing and
changing the startup sequence. Note that on some models the startup sequence is permanently set and
cannot be changed.
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the Lenovo Solution Center program. If you need technical
assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and service” on page 121.

DVD problems
Select your symptom from the following list:
•

“Black screen instead of DVD video” on page 108

•

“DVD movie will not play” on page 108

•

“No audio or intermittent audio while playing DVD movie” on page 108

•

“Playback is very slow or choppy” on page 108

•

“Invalid disc or no disc found message” on page 108
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Black screen instead of DVD video
Symptom: Black screen instead of DVD video
Actions:
• Restart the DVD player program.
• Close any open files, turn off the computer, and then restart the computer.
• Try a lower screen resolution or color depth.
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the Lenovo Solution Center program. If you need technical
assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and service” on page 121.

DVD movie will not play
Symptom: DVD movie will not play.
Actions:
• Make sure that the disc surface is clean and not scratched.
• Check the disc or package for regional coding. You might need to purchase a disc with coding for
the region where you are using your computer.
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the Lenovo Solution Center program. If you need technical
assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and service” on page 121.

No audio or intermittent audio while playing DVD movie
Symptom: No audio or intermittent audio while playing DVD movie.
Actions:
• Check the volume control settings on your computer and on your speakers.
• Make sure that the disc surface is clean and not scratched.
• Check all cable connections to and from the speakers.
• Use the DVD menu for the video to select a different audio track.
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the Lenovo Solution Center program. If you need technical
assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and service” on page 121.

Playback is very slow or choppy
Symptom: Playback is very slow or choppy.
Actions:
• Disable any background programs, such as AntiVirus or Desktop Themes.
• Ensure that video resolution is set to less than 1152 x 864.
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the Lenovo Solution Center program. If you need technical
assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and service” on page 121.

Invalid disc or no disc found message
Symptom: Invalid disc or no disc found message
Actions:

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• 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.
• On computers that have a CD-ROM or CD-RW drive in addition to a DVD-ROM drive, make sure that the
DVD disc is in the drive labeled “DVD”.
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the Lenovo Solution Center program. If you need technical
assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and service” on page 121.

Intermittent problems
Symptom: A problem occurs only occasionally and is difficult to repeat.
Actions:
• Verify that all cables and cords are securely connected to the computer and attached devices.
• Verify that when the computer is on, the fan grill is not blocked (there is air flow around the grill), and the
fans are working. If airflow is blocked or the fans are not working, the computer might overheat.
• If SCSI devices are installed, verify that the last external device in each SCSI chain is terminated correctly.
(See your SCSI documentation.)
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the Lenovo Solution Center program. If you need technical
assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and service” on page 121.

Keyboard, mouse, or pointing device problems
Select your symptom from the following list:
•

“All or some keys on the keyboard do not work” on page 109

•

“The mouse or pointing device does not work” on page 110

•

“The pointer on the screen does not move smoothly with the mouse” on page 110

•

“The fingerprint reader does not work” on page 110

•

“The wireless keyboard does not work” on page 110

All or some keys on the keyboard do not work
Symptom: All or some keys on the keyboard do not work.
Actions:
• Verify that the keyboard cable is securely connected to the correct connector on the computer.
• If you are using an Enhanced Performance USB keyboard and one or more of the Rapid Access buttons
are the only keys that are not working, these buttons might have been disabled or have not been assigned
to a function. Use the help system in the Enhanced Performance Customization Keyboard program to
help diagnose problems with the Rapid Access buttons.
To open the Enhanced Performance Customization Keyboard program, do one of the following:
– On the Windows 7 operating system, do the following:
1. Click Start ➙ Control Panel.
2. Click Hardware and Sound.
3. Click Devices and Printers.
4. Double-click USB Enhanced Performance Keyboard. The USB Enhanced Performance
Keyboard Customization program starts.
– On the Windows 8 or Windows 8.1 operating system, do the following:
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1. Open Control Panel.
Note: For detailed information on how to open Control Panel onWindows 8 and Windows 8.1, see
“Navigating among screens on the Windows 8 and Windows 8.1 operating systems” on page 17.
2. Click Hardware and Sound.
3. Click Devices and Printers.
4. Double-click USB Enhanced Performance Keyboard. The USB Enhanced Performance
Keyboard Customization program starts.
If these actions do not correct the problem, have the computer and keyboard serviced. See Chapter 11
“Getting information, help, and service” on page 121 for details.

The mouse or pointing device does not work
Symptom: The mouse or pointing device does not work.
Actions:
• Verify that the mouse or pointing-device cable is securely attached to the correct connector on the
computer. Depending on the type of mouse you have, the mouse cable will connect to either the
mouse, serial, or USB connector. Some keyboards have integrated USB connectors that can be used
for a USB mouse or pointing device.
• Verify that the device drivers for the mouse or pointing device are installed correctly.
• If you are using a USB keyboard or mouse, verify that the USB connectors are enabled in the BIOS
settings. See “Enabling or disabling a device” on page 91.
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the Lenovo Solution Center program. If you need technical
assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and service” on page 121.

The pointer on the screen does not move smoothly with the mouse
Symptom: The pointer on the screen does not move smoothly with the mouse.
Action: Erratic movement of the mouse pointer is generally caused by a buildup of dirt, oils, and other
contaminants on the ball inside the mouse. Clean the mouse. See “Optical mouse” on page 99 for
instructions.

The fingerprint reader does not work
Symptom: The fingerprint reader does not work.
Action: The following could cause the fingerprint reader not to operate properly:
• Not enrolling your fingerprint correctly.
• Scratching the surface of the reader with a hard, pointed object.
• Scraping the surface of the reader with your nail or anything hard.
• Using or touching the reader with a dirty finger.
• The surface of your finger is very different from when you enrolled your fingerprint.

The wireless keyboard does not work
Symptom: The wireless keyboard does not work.
Action: If the Transceiver Communications LED is on and the wireless Keyboard does not work, restart your
computer. If restarting your computer does not solve the problem, verify that the following conditions are met:

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• The batteries are properly installed.
• The batteries still retain their current.
• The wireless Keyboard is located less than ten meters away from the transceiver.
• The transceiver is fully installed.
Action: If the Transceiver Communications LED is not on, reconnect the transceiver and the keyboard.

Monitor problems
Note: Many monitors have status-indicator lights and built-in controls for adjusting brightness, contrast,
width, height, and other picture adjustments. However, the controls vary from monitor type to monitor type.
For information about the status lights and using the controls, refer to the documentation that comes
with your monitor.
Select your symptom from the following list:
•

“Wrong characters appear on the screen” on page 111

•

“The monitor works when you turn on the computer, but goes blank after some period of computer
inactivity” on page 111

•

“The monitor works when you turn on the computer, but goes blank when you start some application
programs” on page 111

•

“The image appears to be flickering” on page 112

•

“The image is discolored” on page 112

Wrong characters appear on the screen
Symptom: Wrong characters appear on the screen.
Action: Have the computer serviced. For details, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and service” on
page 121.

The monitor works when you turn on the computer, but goes blank after some period
of computer inactivity
Symptom: The monitor works when you turn on the computer, but goes blank after some period of computer
inactivity.
Action: The computer is probably set for energy savings with the power-management feature. If the
power-management feature is enabled, disabling it or changing the settings might solve the problem.
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the Lenovo Solution Center program. If you need technical
assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and service” on page 121.

The monitor works when you turn on the computer, but goes blank when you start
some application programs
Symptom: The monitor works when you turn on the computer, but goes blank when you start some
application programs.
Actions:
• Make sure the monitor signal cable is securely connected to the monitor and the monitor connector on
the computer. A loose cable can cause intermittent problems.
• Verify that the necessary device drivers for the application programs are installed. Refer to the
documentation for the affected application program to see if device drivers are required.

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If these actions do not correct the problem, run the Lenovo Solution Center program. If you need technical
assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and service” on page 121.

The image appears to be flickering
Solutions:
• The screen might be affected by interference from nearby equipment. Magnetic fields around other
devices, such as transformers, appliances, fluorescent lights, and other monitors might be causing the
problem. Move fluorescent desk lighting or any equipment that produces magnetic fields farther away
from the screen. If this does not correct the problem, turn off the computer. Then, adjust the placement of
the computer and other devices so that they are at least 305 mm (12 inches) apart. Turn on the computer.
• Reset the refresh rate supported by your computer.
1. Right-click a blank area on the desktop.
2. Depending on your Windows version, do one of the following:
– For Windows 7, Windows 8, or Windows 8.1: Click Screen resolution ➙ Advanced settings.
– For Windows 10: Click Display settings. On the Display tab, click Advanced display settings ➙
Display adapter properties.
3. Click the Monitor tab, and then reset the refresh rate to be the highest and noninterlaced.

The image is discolored
Symptom: The image is discolored.
Action: The monitor might be affected by interference from nearby equipment. Magnetic fields around other
devices, such as transformers, appliances, fluorescent lights, and other monitors might be causing the
problem. Move fluorescent desk lighting or any equipment that produces magnetic fields further away from
the monitor. If this does not correct the problem, do the following:
1. Turn off the monitor. (Moving a color monitor while it is turned on might cause screen discoloration.)
2. Adjust the placement of the monitor and other devices so that they are at least 305 mm (12 inches) apart.
3. Turn on the monitor.
If these actions do not correct the problem, your monitor might need service. See Chapter 11 “Getting
information, help, and service” on page 121 for details.

Networking problems
The following are the most common networking problems. Select your networking problem from the
following list:
•

“Ethernet problems” on page 112

•

“A wireless LAN problem” on page 114

•

“A wireless WAN problem” on page 114

•

“Bluetooth problem” on page 115

For more information, see “Windows help system” on page 121.

Ethernet problems
For Ethernet problems, select your symptom from the following list:
•

“Your computer cannot connect to the network” on page 113

•

“The adapter stops working for no apparent reason” on page 113

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•

“If your computer is a Gigabit Ethernet model and you use a speed of 1000 Mbps, the connection fails
or errors occur” on page 114

•

“If your computer is a Gigabit Ethernet model, it cannot connect to the network at 1000 Mbps. Instead, it
connects at 100 Mbps” on page 114

Your computer cannot connect to the network
Symptom: Your computer cannot connect to the network.
Actions: Ensure that:
• The cable is installed properly.
The network cable must be securely connected to both the Ethernet connector of your computer and
the RJ45 connector of the hub. The maximum allowable distance from the computer to hub is 100
meters. If the cable is connected and the distance is within acceptable limits but the problem persists, try
a different cable.
• The cable is installed properly.
• You are using the correct device driver.
On the Windows 7 operating system, do the following:
1. Click Start ➙ Control Panel.
2. Click Hardware and Sound.
3. Click Device Manager. If you are prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, type the
password or provide confirmation.
4. If an exclamation mark is displayed next to an adapter name under Network adapters, you might
not be using the correct driver or the driver is not enabled. To update the driver, right-click the
highlighted adapter.
5. Click Update Driver Software, and then follow the instructions on the screen.
On the Windows 8 or Windows 8.1 operating system, do the following:
1. Open Control Panel.
Note: For detailed information on how to open Control Panel on Windows 8 and Windows 8.1, see
“Accessing Control Panel on the Windows 8 or Windows 8.1 operating system” on page 20.
2. Click Hardware and Sound.
3. Click Device Manager. If you are prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, type the
password or provide confirmation.
4. If an exclamation mark is displayed next to an adapter name under Network adapters, you might
not be using the correct driver or the driver is not enabled. To update the driver, right-click the
highlighted adapter.
5. Click Update Driver Software, and then follow the instructions on the screen.
• The switch port and the adapter have the same duplex setting.
If you configured the adapter for full duplex, ensure that the switch port is also configured for full duplex.
Setting the wrong duplex mode can degrade performance, cause data loss, or result in lost connections.
• You have installed all networking software that is necessary for your network environment.
Check with your LAN administrator for the necessary networking software.
The adapter stops working for no apparent reason
Symptom: The adapter stops working for no apparent reason.

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Action: The network driver files may be corrupt or missing. Update the driver by referring to the “Solution”
description for the procedure to make sure that the correct device driver is installed.
The Wake on LAN feature is not working
Symptom: The Wake on LAN (WOL) feature is not working.
Actions:
• Make sure that WOL is enabled in the BIOS Setup Utility program.
• If it is, check with your LAN administrator for the necessary settings.
If your computer is a Gigabit Ethernet model and you use a speed of 1000 Mbps, the connection
fails or errors occur
Symptom: If your computer is a Gigabit Ethernet model and you use a speed of 1000 Mbps, the connection
fails or errors occur.
Actions:
• Use Category 5 wiring and make sure that the network cable is securely connected.
• Connect to a 1000 BASE-T hub/switch (not 1000 BASE-X).
If your computer is a Gigabit Ethernet model, it cannot connect to the network at 1000 Mbps. Instead,
it connects at 100 Mbps
Symptom: If your computer is a Gigabit Ethernet model, it cannot connect to the network at 1000 Mbps.
Instead, it connects at 100 Mbps.
Actions:
• Try another cable.
• Make sure that the link partner is set to auto-negotiate.
• Make sure that the switch is 802.3ab-compliant (gigabit over copper).

A wireless LAN problem
Symptom: You cannot connect using the built-in wireless networking card.
Actions:
• Ensure that your wireless LAN driver is the latest version. Check the Web site and verify the driver version
supported by Access Connections is the latest documented in the readme file.
• Ensure that your computer is within range of a wireless access point.
• Ensure that the wireless radio is enabled by double-clicking the Access Connections icon in the Windows
notification area.
• Check Network Name (SSID), and your encryption information. Use Access Connections to verify this
case-sensitive information.

A wireless WAN problem
Message: Unauthorized WAN card is plugged in - Power off and remove the WAN card.
Action: The WAN card is not supported on this computer. Remove it.
Note: Some computer models do not have a wireless WAN.

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Bluetooth problem
Symptom: 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.
Action: Do the following:
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 and Windows 8.1, see
“Accessing Control Panel on the Windows 8 or Windows 8.1 operating system” on page 20.
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 click the Set Default
button. If you are using the AV profile, select Stereo Audio and click the Set Default button.
6. Click OK to close the Sound window.

Option problems
Use this information to diagnose problems with Lenovo hardware options that do not have their own
troubleshooting information.
Select your symptom from the following list:
•

“An option that was just installed does not work” on page 115

•

“An option that previously worked does not work now” on page 115

An option that was just installed does not work
Symptom: An option that was just installed does not work.
Action: Verify that:
• The option is designed for your computer.
• You followed the installation instructions supplied with the option and the installation instructions provided
with your computer, and all option files (such as device drivers, if required) are installed correctly.
• You have not loosened other installed options or cables.
• If the option is an adapter, you have provided enough hardware resources for the adapter to function
correctly. See the documentation supplied with the adapter (as well as the documentation for any other
installed adapters) to determine the resources required for each adapter.
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the Lenovo Solution Center program. If you need technical
assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and service” on page 121.

An option that previously worked does not work now
Symptom: An option that previously worked does not work now.
Actions:
• Verify that all option hardware and cable connections are secure.
• If the option comes with its own test instructions, use those instructions to test the option.
• If the failing option is a SCSI option, verify that:
– The cables for all external SCSI options are connected correctly.

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– The last option in each SCSI chain, or the end of the SCSI cable, is terminated correctly.
– All external SCSI options are turned on. External SCSI options must be turned on before the computer
is turned on. For more information, see your SCSI documentation.
• Verify that the option and any required device drivers are installed correctly.
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the Lenovo Solution Center program. If you need technical
assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and service” on page 121.

Performance and lockup problems
Poor performance and lockup problems can be a result of any of the following:
•

“Insufficient free hard disk drive space” on page 116

•

“Excessive number of fragmented files” on page 117

•

“Insufficient memory” on page 117

Make a selection from the above list to find out more about the corrective actions you can take.

Insufficient free hard disk drive space
Solutions: Free up hard disk drive space.
• Clean out your Inbox, Sent Items, and Deleted Items folders from your e-mail application.
• Clean up your C drive.
1. Depending on your Windows version, do one of the following:
– For Windows 7: Click the Start button to open the Start menu, and then click Computer.
– For Windows 8: Open File Explorer, and then click Computer.
– For Windows 8.1: Open File Explorer.
– For Windows 10: Click the Start button to open the Start menu, and then click File Explorer ➙
This PC.
2. Right-click your C drive and then click Properties.
3. Check the amount of free space, and then click Disk Cleanup.
4. A list of unnecessary file categories is displayed. Select each file category you want to delete,
and then click OK.
• Turn some Windows features off or remove some unnecessary programs.
1. Open Control Panel by doing one of the following:
– For Windows 7: Click the Start button to open the Start menu, and then click Control Panel.
– For Windows 8 or Windows 8.1: See “Accessing Control Panel on the Windows 8 or Windows
8.1 operating system” on page 20.
– For Windows 10: Right-click the Start button to open the Start context menu, and then click
Control Panel.
2. View Control Panel using Large icons or Small icons, and then click Programs and Features.
3. Do one of the following:
– To turn some Windows features off, click Turn Windows features on or off. Follow the
instructions on the screen.
– To remove some unnecessary programs, select the program you want to remove, and then click
Uninstall/Change or Uninstall.

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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 storage drives and amount of data stored on the storage drives, the
disk-defragmentation process might take up to several hours.
1. Close any open programs and windows.
2. Depending on your Windows version, do one of the following:
• For Windows 7: Click the Start button to open the Start menu, and then click Computer.
• For Windows 8: Open File Explorer, and then click Computer.
• For Windows 8.1: Open File Explorer.
• For Windows 10: Click the Start button to open the Start menu, and then click File Explorer ➙
This PC.
3. Right-click your C drive and then click Properties.
4. Click the Tools tab.
5. Depending on your Windows version, do one of the following:
• For Windows 7: Click Defragment now.
• For Windows 8, Windows 8.1, or Windows 10: Click Optimize. Select the desired drive, and then
click Optimize.
6. Follow the instructions on the screen.

Insufficient memory
Symptom: Insufficient memory
In general, the more memory that is installed, the better the Windows operating system runs.
Action: Install additional memory. For information about purchasing memory, see Chapter 11 “Getting
information, help, and service” on page 121. For step-by-step instructions on installing memory, see
“Installing or replacing a memory module” on page 39.
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the Lenovo Solution Center program. If you need technical
assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and service” on page 121.

Printer problems
Symptom: The printer does not work.
Actions: Verify that:
1. The printer is turned on and is online.
2. Paper is loaded correctly.
3. The printer signal cable is securely connected to the correct parallel, serial, or USB connector on the
computer.
Note: Non-IEEE-approved printer signal cables might cause unpredictable problems.
1. Any device drivers and other software that came with the printer are correctly installed.
2. You have assigned the printer port correctly in your operating system, application program, or BIOS
settings. For more information about BIOS settings, see Chapter 7 “Using the Setup Utility program”
on page 89.

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If the problem persists, run the tests described in the documentation that comes with your printer. If you
cannot correct the problem, have the computer serviced. See Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and
service” on page 121.

Serial port problems
Use this information to troubleshoot the serial port and devices attached to the serial port.
Symptom: Serial port cannot be accessed.
Actions:
• Make sure the serial cable is securely connected to the serial port on the computer and to the serial
device. If the serial device has its own power cord, make sure it is attached to a properly grounded
electrical outlet.
• If the serial device has its own On/Off switch, make sure it is in the On position.
• If the serial device has an Online switch, make sure it is in the Online position.
• If the serial device is a printer, make sure paper is loaded correctly.
• Verify that any software supplied with the serial device is correctly installed. Refer to the documentation
for the serial-device option.
• Make sure that the serial-port adapter, if you added one, is properly installed and firmly seated.
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the Lenovo Solution Center program. If you need technical
assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and service” on page 121.

Software problems
Select your symptom from the following list:
•

“When using a sort feature, dates do not sort in the correct order” on page 118

•

“Software does not work as expected” on page 118

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

Software does not work as expected
Symptom: Software does not work as expected.
Actions:
• Most software programs have built-in help systems that provide instructions for most tasks. If you are
having difficulty performing a specific task within a software program, refer to the help system for that
program. Help systems are typically accessible from a menu or button in the program, and frequently
from the F1 key.
• If you have difficulty with the Windows operating system or one of its components, refer to the Windows
help system.
• To determine if problems are caused by newly installed software, verify that:

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– Your computer has the minimum memory requirements needed to use the software. See the
information supplied with the software to verify memory requirements. (If you just installed an adapter
or memory, you might have a memory-address conflict.)
– The software is designed to operate on your computer.
– Other software works on your computer.
– The software you are using works correctly on another computer.
• If you received any error messages while using the software program, see the printed documentation
supplied with the software or the help system for that software for a description of the messages and
solutions to the problem.
• Check with your software manufacturer to see if any updates are available. Many software manufacturers
make updates available from the World Wide Web.
• If the software program used to work correctly, but does not work correctly now, do the following:
1. Open Control Panel by doing one of the following:
– For Windows 7: Click the Start button to open the Start menu, and then click Control Panel.
– For Windows 8 or Windows 8.1: See “Accessing Control Panel on the Windows 8 or Windows
8.1 operating system” on page 20.
– For Windows 10: Right-click the Start button to open the Start context menu, and then click
Control Panel.
2. View Control Panel using Large icons or Small icons, and then click Recovery ➙ Open System
Restore.
3. Follow the instructions on the screen.
• If you are unable to resolve the problem through other methods, uninstall the software program and
reinstall it.
If these actions do not correct the problem, you might need technical assistance. Contact your software
manufacturer or see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and service” on page 121 for details.

USB problems
Symptom: The USB connectors cannot be accessed.
Actions:
• Make sure the USB cable is securely connected to the USB connector and to the USB device. If the USB
device has its own power cord, make sure it is attached to a properly grounded electrical outlet.
• If the USB device has its own On/Off switch, make sure it is in the On position.
• If the USB device has an Online switch, make sure it is in the Online position.
• If the USB device is a printer, make sure paper is loaded correctly.
• Make sure any device drivers or other software supplied with the USB device is correctly installed.
Refer to the documentation for the USB device.
• Reset the device by detaching and reattaching the USB connector.
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the Lenovo Solution Center program. If the USB device came
with its own diagnostics, run those diagnostics against the USB device. If you need technical assistance,
see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and service” on page 121.

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Lenovo Solution Center
The Lenovo Solution Center program enables you to troubleshoot and resolve computer problems. It
combines diagnostic tests, system information collection, security status, and support information, along
with hints and tips for maximum system performance.
Notes:
• The Lenovo Solution Center program can be downloaded from http://www.lenovo.com/diags.
• If you are using a Windows operating system other than Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1, or Windows
10, go to http://www.lenovo.com/diags for the latest information on diagnostics for your computer.
To run the Lenovo Solution Center program, see “Lenovo programs” on page 5.
For additional information, refer to the Lenovo Solution Center help system.
Note: If you are unable to isolate and repair the problem yourself after running the program, save and print
the log files. You will need the log files when you speak to a Lenovo technical support representative.

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Chapter 11. Getting information, help, and service
This chapter contains information about help, service, and technical assistance for products manufactured
by Lenovo.

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

Windows help system
Note: If you use the online help for Windows 7, Windows 8, or Windows 8.1, or the help for Windows 10,
ensure that your computer is connected to the Internet.
The Windows help system provides you with detailed information about using the Windows operating system.
To access the Windows help system, do one of the following:
• For Windows 7: Click the Start button to open the Start menu, and then click Help and Support. You can
choose to use the online or offline help at the bottom of the screen.
• For Windows 8 or Windows 8.1: Move the pointer to the top-right or bottom-right corner of the screen
to display the charms. Then, click Settings ➙ Help. You can choose to use the online or offline help
at the bottom of the screen.
• For Windows 10: Click the Start button to open the Start menu, and then click Get started.

Safety and Warranty
The Safety, Warranty, and Setup Guide that is provided with your computer contains information on safety,
setup, warranty, and notices. Read and understand all safety information before using this product.

Lenovo Web site
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.
• Access troubleshooting and support information for your computer model and other supported products.
• Find the service and support phone numbers for your country or region.
• Find a Service Provider located near you.

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

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

Using the documentation and diagnostic program
If you experience a problem with your computer, see Chapter 10 “Troubleshooting and diagnostics” on
page 103. For information on additional resources to help you troubleshoot your computer problem, see
“Information resources” on page 121.
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 enables you to identify hardware problems.
You can also get the latest technical information and download device drivers and updates from Lenovo
Support Web site at:
http://www.lenovo.com/support

Calling for service
During the warranty period, you can get help and information by telephone through the Customer Support
Center.
The following services are available during the warranty period:
• Problem determination - Trained service personnel are available to assist you with determining a
hardware problem and deciding what action is necessary to fix the problem.
• Hardware repair - If the problem is caused by hardware under warranty, trained service personnel are
available to provide the applicable level of service.
• Engineering Change management - There might be changes that are required after a product has
been sold. Lenovo or your reseller will make selected Engineering Changes (ECs) that apply to your
hardware available.
These items are not covered by the warranty:
• Replacement or use of parts not manufactured for or by Lenovo or non-warranted Lenovo parts
• Identification of software problem sources
• Configuration of BIOS as part of an installation or upgrade
• Changes, modifications, or upgrades to device drivers
• Installation and maintenance of network operating systems (NOS)

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

Using other services
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.
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, such as support for hardware,
operating systems, and application programs; network setup and configuration; upgraded or extended
hardware repair services; and custom installations. Service availability and service name might vary by
country or region. For more information about these services, go to the Lenovo Web site at:
http://www.lenovo.com

Chapter 11. Getting information, help, and service

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Appendix A. Notices
Lenovo may not offer the products, services, or features discussed in this document in all countries. Consult
your local Lenovo representative for information on the products and services currently available in your
area. Any reference to a Lenovo product, program, or service is not intended to state or imply that only that
Lenovo product, program, or service may be used. Any functionally equivalent product, program, or service
that does not infringe any Lenovo intellectual property right may be used instead. However, it is the user's
responsibility to evaluate and verify the operation of any other product, program, or service.
Lenovo may have patents or pending patent applications covering subject matter described in this
document. The furnishing of this document does not give you any license to these patents. You can send
license inquiries, in writing, to:
Lenovo (United States), Inc.
1009 Think Place - Building One
Morrisville, NC 27560
U.S.A.
Attention: Lenovo Director of Licensing
LENOVO PROVIDES THIS PUBLICATION “AS IS” WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS
OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF NON-INFRINGEMENT,
MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. Some jurisdictions do not allow
disclaimer of express or implied warranties in certain transactions, therefore, this statement may not apply
to you.
This information could include technical inaccuracies or typographical errors. Changes are periodically
made to the information herein; these changes will be incorporated in new editions of the publication.
Lenovo may make improvements and/or changes in the product(s) and/or the program(s) described in this
publication at any time without notice.
The products described in this document are not intended for use in implantation or other life support
applications where malfunction may result in injury or death to persons. The information contained in this
document does not affect or change Lenovo product specifications or warranties. Nothing in this document
shall operate as an express or implied license or indemnity under the intellectual property rights of Lenovo
or third parties. All information contained in this document was obtained in specific environments and is
presented as an illustration. The result obtained in other operating environments may vary.
Lenovo may use or distribute any of the information you supply in any way it believes appropriate without
incurring any obligation to you.
Any references in this publication to non-Lenovo Web sites are provided for convenience only and do not in
any manner serve as an endorsement of those Web sites. The materials at those Web sites are not part of
the materials for this Lenovo product, and use of those Web sites is at your own risk.
Any performance data contained herein was determined in a controlled environment. Therefore, the result
obtained in other operating environments may vary significantly. Some measurements may have been
made on development-level systems and there is no guarantee that these measurements will be the same
on generally available systems. Furthermore, some measurements may have been estimated through
extrapolation. Actual results may vary. Users of this document should verify the applicable data for their
specific environment.

125

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.
DisplayPort is a Trademark of the Video Electronics Standards Association.
Linux is a registered trademark of Linus Torvalds.
Other company, product, or service names may be trademarks or service marks of others.

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Appendix B. Regulatory information
The latest compliance information is available at http://www.lenovo.com/compliance.

Export classification notice
This product is subject to the United States Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and has an Export
Classification Control Number (ECCN) of 5A992.c. It can be re-exported except to any of the embargoed
countries in the EAR E1 country list.

Television output notice
The following notice applies to models that have the factory-installed television-output feature.
This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by method claims of certain U.S.
patents and other intellectual property rights owned by Macrovision Corporation and other rights owners.
Use of this copyright protection technology must be authorized by Macrovision Corporation, and is intended
for home and other limited viewing uses only unless otherwise authorized by Macrovision Corporation.
Reverse engineering or disassembly is prohibited.

Electronic emissions notices
The following information refers to Lenovo personal computer machine types 10B4, 10B5, 10B6, 10B7,
10HL, and 10HM.

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.

127

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 Directives for ITE (Information Technology Equipment) and Radio
Equipment
Models without a radio device: This product is in conformity with the protection requirements of EU Council
Directive 2004/108/EC (until 19 April, 2016) and Council Directive 2014/30/EU (from 20 April, 2016) on the
approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to electromagnetic compatibility.
Models with a radio device: This product is in conformity with all the requirements and essential norms that
apply to EU Council R&TTE Directive 1999/5/EC on the approximation of the laws of the Member States
relating to radio equipment.
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 equipment
according to European Standards harmonized in the Directives in compliance. 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 2014/30/EU (früher 2004/108/EC) zur
Angleichung der Rechtsvorschriften über die elektromagnetische Verträglichkeit in den EU-Mitgliedsstaaten
und hält die Grenzwerte der Klasse B der Norm gemäß Richtlinie.
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:

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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
EMV EU Richtlinie 2014/30/EU (früher 2004/108/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 EU Richtlinie 2014/30/EU (früher 2004/108/EC), 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, Meitnerstr. 9, 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

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

Japan notice for ac power cord
The ac power cord shipped with your product can be used only for this specific product. Do not use the ac
power cord for other devices.

Lenovo product service information for Taiwan

Keyboard and mouse compliance statement for Taiwan

Appendix B. Regulatory information

129

Eurasian compliance mark

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

Mexico wireless-radio compliance information
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/support and click User Guides and Manuals.

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Appendix C. 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. The latest environmental information about our products is available at
http://www.lenovo.com/ecodeclaration.

Important WEEE information

The WEEE marking on Lenovo products applies to countries with WEEE and e-waste regulations (for
example, the European WEEE Directive, 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. Lenovo electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) may contain
parts and components, which at end-of-life might qualify as hazardous waste.
EEE and waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) can be delivered free of charge to the place of
sale or any distributor that sells electrical and electronic equipment of the same nature and function as
the used EEE or WEEE.
For additional WEEE information, go to:
http://www.lenovo.com/recycling
WEEE information for Hungary
Lenovo, as a producer, bears the cost incurred in connection with the fulfillment of Lenovo’s obligations
under Hungary Law No. 197/2014 (VIII.1.) subsections (1)-(5) of section 12.

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
© Copyright Lenovo 2013, 2016

131

for Promotion of Effective Utilization of Resources, Lenovo Japan provides, through its PC Collecting
and Recycling Services, for the collecting, reuse, and recycling of disused computers and monitors. For
details, visit the Lenovo Web site at http://www.lenovo.com/recycling/japan. Pursuant to the Law for
Promotion of Effective Utilization of Resources, the collecting and recycling of home-used computers
and monitors by the manufacturer was begun on October 1, 2003. This service is provided free of
charge for home-used computers sold after October 1, 2003. For details, visit the Lenovo Web site at
http://www.lenovo.com/recycling/japan.
Disposing of Lenovo computer components
Some Lenovo computer products sold in Japan may have components that contain heavy metals or other
environmental sensitive substances. To properly dispose of disused components, such as a printed circuit
board or drive, use the methods described above for collecting and recycling a disused computer or monitor.
Disposing of disused lithium batteries from Lenovo computers
A button-shaped lithium battery is installed 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

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Battery recycling information for the European Union

Notice: This mark applies only to countries within the European Union (EU).
Batteries or packaging for batteries are labeled in accordance with European Directive 2006/66/EC
concerning batteries and accumulators and waste batteries and accumulators. The Directive determines the
framework for the return and recycling of used batteries and accumulators as applicable throughout the
European Union. This label is applied to various batteries to indicate that the battery is not to be thrown
away, but rather reclaimed upon end of life per this Directive.
In accordance with the European Directive 2006/66/EC, batteries and accumulators are labeled to indicate
that they are to be collected separately and recycled at end of life. The label on the battery may also
include a chemical symbol for the metal concerned in the battery (Pb for lead, Hg for mercury, and Cd for
cadmium). Users of batteries and accumulators must not dispose of batteries and accumulators as unsorted
municipal waste, but use the collection framework available to customers for the return, recycling, and
treatment of batteries and accumulators. Customer participation is important to minimize any potential
effects of batteries and accumulators on the environment and human health due to the potential presence of
hazardous substances.
Before placing electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) in the waste collection stream or in waste collection
facilities, the end user of equipment containing batteries and/or accumulators must remove those batteries
and accumulators for separate collection.
Disposing of lithium batteries and battery packs from Lenovo products
A coin-cell type lithium battery might be installed inside your Lenovo product. You can find details about the
battery in the product documentation. If the battery needs to be replaced, contact your place of purchase or
contact Lenovo for service. If you need to dispose of a lithium battery, insulate it with vinyl tape, contact
your place of purchase or a waste-disposal operator, and follow their instructions.
Disposing of battery packs from Lenovo products
Your Lenovo device might contain a lithium-ion battery pack or a nickel metal hydride battery pack. You can
find details on the battery pack in the product documentation. If you need to dispose of a battery pack,
insulate it with vinyl tape, contact Lenovo sales, service, or your place of purchase, or a waste-disposal
operator, and follow their instructions. You also can refer to the instructions provided in the manuals for
your product.
For proper collection and treatment, go to:
http://www.lenovo.com/lenovo/environment

Appendix C. WEEE and recycling information

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Appendix D. Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS)
Directive
The latest environmental information is available at http://www.lenovo.com/ecodeclaration.

European Union RoHS
This Lenovo product, with included parts (cables, cords, and so on) meets 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 worldwide compliance on RoHS, go to:
http://www.lenovo.com/social_responsibility/us/en/RoHS_Communication.pdf

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 Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE).

Ukraine RoHS

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

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China RoHS

Taiwan RoHS

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Appendix E. China Energy Label

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Appendix F. 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: 10B4, 10B5, 10HL, and 10HM. 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 1. ENERGY STAR power-management features
Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1, or Windows 10 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.
To change power settings, do the following:
1. Open Control Panel by doing one of the following:
• For Windows 7: Click the Start button to open the Start menu, and then click Control Panel.
• For Windows 8 or Windows 8.1: See “Accessing Control Panel on the Windows 8 or Windows
8.1 operating system” on page 20.
• For Windows 10: Right-click the Start button to open the Start context menu, and then click Control
Panel.
2. View Control Panel using Large icons or Small icons, and then click Power Options.
© Copyright Lenovo 2013, 2016

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3. Follow the instructions on the screen.

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Index
A
a rescue medium, creating and using 82
accessing
system board components and drives 38
Administrator, password 90
audio line-in connector 10
audio line-out connector 10
audio subsystem 1

B
backup and recovery operations
basic troubleshooting 103
battery, replacing 43
boot-block recovery 95

E
environment, operating 5
Ethernet 2
Ethernet connector 11
exiting, Setup Utility 94
expansion 3
external options, installing 35

C
cable lock, security 33
cables, connecting 77
changing
password 90
startup device sequence 92
cleaning an optical mouse 99
CMOS, clearing 91
components, internal 12
computer cover
opening 36
connector 10
connectors
rear 10
connectors, controls, indicators
front 9
considerations, passwords 90
creating
and using a rescue medium 82
creating and using
recovery media 79
CRU
completing the installation 77
customer support center 122

D
deleting a password 90
Description 10
device drivers 78
devices, handling static-sensitive 35
diagnostics program, using 122
diagnostics, troubleshooting 103
DisplayPort connector 11
documentation, using 122
drivers, device 78
drives

bays 14
specifications

F
failure, recovering from POST/BIOS 95
features 1
front
connectors, controls, indicators 9
front audio and USB assembly, replacing 63
front bezel
removing, reinstalling 36
front WiFi antenna, installing, removing 73

G
getting
help 121
information 121
service 121

H
hard disk drive, replacing 44
heat sink and fan assembly
replacing 54
help
and service 122
getting 121

I
important safety information v
information
getting 121
important safety v
resources 121
safety 121
warranty 121
Input/Output (I/O) features 3
installing options
memory module 39
PCI Express card 41
internal drives 1

141

purchasing additional services

Kensington-style
cable lock 33
keyboard
replacing 75
keyboard connector

R
11

L
Lenovo Solution Center 120
locating components 12

M
media, creating and using recovery media
memory module
installing, replacing 39
system board 39
Microphone connector 11
microprocessor
replacing 61
mouse
replacing 76
mouse connector 11

N
notices

125

O
opening computer cover 36
operations, backup and recovery 80
optical drive, installing or replacing 51
optical mouse
cleaning 99

P
parts replacement, completing 77
password
Administrator 90
considerations 90
Power-On Password 90
setting, changing, deleting 90
passwords
erasing 91
lost or forgotten 91
passwords, using 89
PCI Express card 41
installing, replacing 41
physical specifications 5
power
features 3
power supply assembly
replacing 57
power-on self-test (POST) 95
Power-On, Password 90
programs, updating system 95

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rear connectors 10
rear WiFi antenna, installing, removing 71
recovering
from a POST/BIOS update failure 95
software 79
recovery
boot-block 95
operations, backup and 80
problems, solving 84
recovery media, creating and using 79
removing, reinstalling
front bezel 36
replacing
battery 43
hard disk drive 44
heat sink and fan assembly 54
keyboard 75
microprocessor 61
mouse 76
power supply assembly 57
solid-state drive 46
system fan assembly 64
Rescue and Recovery 79
workspace, Rescue and Recovery 81
Rescue and Recovery workspace 81
resources, information 121

S
safety v
safety information 121
security
enabling or disabling 91
features 3
selecting
startup device 91
temporary startup device 92
serial port 11
service
and help 122
customer support center 122
getting 121
services
other 123
purchasing additional 123
setting
password 90
settings
changing 89
viewing 89
Setup Utility 89
Setup Utility program, starting 89
Setup Utility, exiting 94
software
recovering 79
solid-state drive, replacing 46

solving recovery problems 84
starting the Setup Utility program 89
startup device 91
sequence, changing 92
temporary, selecting 92
static-sensitive devices, handling 35
system
management 2
programs 95
system board
connectors 13
locating parts 13
locations 13
memory module 39
system board components and drives
accessing 38
system fan assembly
replacing 64

T
temporary startup device 92
trademarks 126
troubleshooting, basic 103
troubleshooting, diagnostics 103

U
updating
system programs 95
USB 2.0 connector 11
USB 3.0 connector 11
using
a rescue medium, creating and
diagnostic program 122
documentation 122
other services 123
passwords 89
Setup Utility 89

V
VGA connector 11
video subsystem 1
viewing and changing settings

W
warranty information 121
WiFi units, WiFi adapter card, WiFi card module, WiFi
antenna cable, replacing 66
workspace, backup and recovery 81

143

144

ThinkCentre M73 User Guide

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Lenovo M73 Sff Ug En User Manual (English) Guide (Small Form Factor) Think Centre Desktop (Think Centre) Type 10AY

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