Lenovo M82M92P Tower Ug En User Manual (English) Guide For Form Factor M92 Desktop (Think Centre) Type 2982

2012-06-03

User Manual: Lenovo M82M92P Tower Ug En (English) User Guide for Tower Form Factor M92 Desktop (ThinkCentre) - Type 2982 ThinkCentre M92, 2982

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ThinkCentre
User Guide

Machine Types: 2697, 2698, 2742, 2750, 2935, 2943, 2960, 2967,
2986, 2992, 2994, 2999, 3182, 3184, 3186, 3190, 3201, 3204, 3208,
3212, 3217, 3220, 3226, 3228, 3302, 3391, and 3392

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 131.

Fifth Edition (September 2012)
© Copyright Lenovo 2012.
LIMITED AND RESTRICTED RIGHTS NOTICE: If data or software is delivered pursuant a General Services Administration
“GSA” contract, use, reproduction, or disclosure is subject to restrictions set forth in Contract No. GS-35F-05925.

Contents
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 . . . . .
Modem safety information . . . .
Laser compliance statement . . .
Power supply statement . . . . .
Cleaning and maintenance . . . .

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Chapter 1. Product overview . . . . . . 1
Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lenovo programs . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accessing Lenovo programs on the Windows
7 operating system . . . . . . . . . . .
Accessing Lenovo programs on the Windows
8 operating system . . . . . . . . . . .
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 . . . . . . .

Chapter 2. Using your computer . . .
Frequently asked questions . . . . . . .
Accessing Control Panel on the Windows 8
operating system. . . . . . . . . . . .
Using the keyboard . . . . . . . . . . .
Using Windows shortcut keys . . . . .
Using the blue ThinkVantage button . .
Using a fingerprint reader . . . . . .
Using the wheel mouse . . . . . . . . .
Adjusting audio . . . . . . . . . . . .
About your computer audio . . . . . .
Setting the volume from the desktop . .
Setting the volume from Control Panel .
Using CDs and DVDs . . . . . . . . . .
Handling and storing CD and DVD media
© Copyright Lenovo 2012

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Playing a CD or DVD . . . . . . . . . .
Recording a CD or DVD . . . . . . . . .

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Chapter 3. You and your computer . .

Accessibility and comfort . . . . . . . .
Arranging your workspace . . . . . .
Comfort . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Glare and lighting . . . . . . . . . .
Air circulation . . . . . . . . . . .
Electrical outlets and cable lengths . . .
Registering your computer . . . . . . . .
Moving your computer to another country or
region . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Voltage-selection switch . . . . . . .
Replacement power cords . . . . . .

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

Security features . . . . . . .
Locking the computer cover . .
Attaching a cable lock. . . . .
Attaching an integrated cable lock
Using passwords. . . . . . .
BIOS passwords . . . . .
Windows passwords . . .
Configuring the fingerprint reader
Using and understanding firewalls
Protecting data against viruses .

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

Handling static-sensitive devices . . . . . .
Installing or replacing hardware . . . . . . .
Installing external options . . . . . . .
Removing the computer cover. . . . . .
Removing and reinstalling the front bezel .
Installing or replacing a PCI card . . . . .
Installing or replacing a memory module . .
Installing or replacing the optical drive . .
Installing or replacing the card reader . . .
Replacing the battery . . . . . . . . .
Replacing the power supply assembly . .
Replacing the heat sink and fan assembly .
Replacing the microprocessor . . . . . .
Installing the solid-state drive . . . . . .
Installing or replacing the mSATA solid-state
drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Replacing the primary hard disk drive . . .

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Replacing the secondary hard disk drive. .
Replacing the front fan assembly . . . .
Replacing the rear fan assembly . . . . .
Replacing the front audio and USB
assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Replacing the internal speaker. . . . . .
Replacing the thermal sensor . . . . . .
Replacing the cover presence switch . . .
Replacing the WiFi units . . . . . . . .
Installing or removing the rear WiFi antenna
Installing or removing the front WiFi antenna
Replacing the keyboard or 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 operating
system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Chapter 7. Using the Setup Utility
program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Starting the Setup Utility program . . . . . . .
Viewing and changing settings . . . . . . . .
Using 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 compliance mode . . . . . . . .
ICE performance mode . . . . . . . . . . .
ICE thermal alert . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Exiting the Setup Utility program . . . . . . .

ThinkCentre User Guide

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Chapter 8. Updating system
programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Using system programs . . . . . . . . . .
Updating (flashing) the BIOS from a disc . . .
Updating (flashing) the BIOS from your operating
system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Recovering from a POST/BIOS update failure .

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Chapter 9. Preventing problems . .
Keeping your computer current . . . . . .
Getting the latest device drivers for your
computer . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Updating your operating system . . . .
Using System Update . . . . . . . .
Cleaning and maintenance . . . . . . . .
Basics . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cleaning your computer . . . . . . .
Good maintenance practices . . . . .
Moving your computer . . . . . . . . .

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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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
Information resources . . . . .
Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools .
Lenovo Welcome . . . . .
Help and Support. . . . .
Safety and Warranty. . . .
Lenovo Web site . . . . .
Lenovo Support Web site. .
Help and service . . . . . . .

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Using the documentation and diagnostic
program . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Calling for service. . . . . . . . . .
Using other services . . . . . . . .
Purchasing additional services . . . .

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

Appendix B. Regulatory
information . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Export classification notice . . . . . . .
Electronic emissions notices . . . . . .
Federal Communications Commission
Declaration of Conformity . . . . .
Additional regulatory information . . . .

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

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Appendix D. Restriction of Hazardous
Substances Directive (RoHS) . . . . 141

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China RoHS.
Turkish RoHS
Ukraine RoHS
India RoHS .

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

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

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Appendix C. WEEE and recycling
information . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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iii

ThinkCentre User Guide

Important safety information
CAUTION:
Before using this manual, be sure to read and understand all the related safety information for this
product. Refer to the 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 ensure
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 33. If you have any questions or
concerns, contact the Customer Support Center.
Although there are no moving parts in your computer after the power cord has been disconnected, the
following warnings are required for your safety.
CAUTION:

Hazardous moving parts. Keep fingers and other body parts away.
CAUTION:
Before replacing any CRUs, turn off the computer and wait three to five minutes to let the computer
cool before opening the cover.

Static electricity prevention
Static electricity, although harmless to you, can seriously damage computer components and options.
Improper handling of static-sensitive parts can cause damage to the part. When you unpack an option
© Copyright Lenovo 2012

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

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

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

ThinkCentre 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.

Modem safety information
CAUTION:
To reduce the risk of fire, use only No. 26 AWG or larger (for example, No. 24 AWG) telecommunication
line cord listed by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) or certified by the Canadian Standards Association
(CSA).
To reduce the risk of fire, electrical shock, or injury when using telephone equipment, always follow basic
safety precautions, such as:
• Never install telephone wiring during a lightning storm.
• Never install telephone jacks in wet locations unless the jack is specifically designed for wet locations.
• Never touch uninsulated telephone wires or terminals unless the telephone line has been disconnected at
the network interface.
• Use caution when installing or modifying telephone lines.
• Avoid using a telephone (other than a cordless type) during an electrical storm. There may be a remote
risk of electric shock from lightning.
• Do not use the telephone to report a gas leak in the vicinity of the leak.

viii

ThinkCentre User Guide

Laser compliance statement

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

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

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 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:
• Go into the Setup Utility program by following the instructions in Chapter 7 “Using the Setup Utility
program” on page 97. Then, select Main ➙ System Summary to view the information.
• On the Microsoft® Windows® 7 operation system, click Start, right-click Computer, and select Properties
to view the information.
• On the Windows 8 operating system, move your cursor to the top-right or bottom-right corner of the
screen to display the charms. Then click Settings ➙ PC info to view the information.
Microprocessor
Your computer comes with one of the following microprocessors (internal cache size varies by model type):
• Intel® Core™ i3 microprocessor
• Intel Core i5 microprocessor
• Intel Core i7 microprocessor
• Intel Celeron® microprocessor
• Intel Pentium® microprocessor
Memory
Your computer supports up to four double data rate 3 unbuffered dual inline memory modules (DDR3
UDIMMs).
Internal drives
• Optical drive: DVD-ROM or DVD-R (optional)
• Serial Advanced Technology Attachment (SATA) hard disk drive
• SATA solid-state drive
Note: Your computer supports SATA 2.0 and SATA 3.0 devices. For more information, see “Locating parts
on the system board” on page 12.
Video subsystem
• Integrated graphics for a Video Graphics Array (VGA) connector and a DisplayPort connector
• Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) Express x16 graphics card slot on the system board for a
discrete graphics card
Audio subsystem
• Integrated high-definition (HD) audio

• Audio line-in connector, audio line-out connector, and microphone connector on the rear panel
• Microphone connector and headphone connector on the front panel
• Internal speaker (installed in some models)
Connectivity
• 100/1000 Mbps integrated Ethernet controller
• PCI Fax modem (installed in 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.
• Intel Standard Manageability
Intel Standard Manageability is hardware and firmware technology that builds certain functionality
into computers in order to make them easier and less expensive for businesses to monitor, maintain,
update, upgrade, and repair.
• Intel Matrix Storage Manager
Intel Matrix Storage Manager is a device driver that provides support for SATA RAID 5 arrays and SATA
RAID 10 arrays on specific Intel chipset system boards to enhance hard disk performance.
• 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 101 and “ICE thermal alert” on page 101.
• 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.

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Input/Output (I/O) features
• 9-pin serial port (one standard and one optional)
• Eight Universal Serial Bus (USB) connectors (two on the front panel and six on the rear panel)
• One DisplayPort connector
• One Ethernet connector
• One Personal System/2 (PS/2) keyboard connector (optional)
• One PS/2 mouse connector (optional)
• One VGA monitor connector
• 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 PCI Express x1 card slot
• One PCI Express x16 graphics card slot
• Two hard disk drive bays
• Two optical drive bays
• Two PCI card slots
Power supply
Your computer comes with one of the following types of power supply:
• 280-watt automatic voltage-sensing power supply
• 450-watt automatic voltage-sensing power supply
Security features
• Ability to enable and disable USB connectors individually
• Ability to enable or disable a device
• Computrace Agent software embedded in firmware
• Cover presence switch (also called intrusion switch)
• Keyboard with fingerprint reader (shipped with some models)
• Power-on password (POP), administrator password, and hard disk drive password to deter unauthorized
use of your computer
• Startup sequence control
• Startup without keyboard or mouse
• Support for a cable lock
• Support for a padlock
• Support for an integrated cable lock (Kensington lock)
• Trusted Platform Module (TPM)
For more information, see Chapter 4 “Security” on page 27.

Chapter 1. Product overview

Preinstalled software programs
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:
• Microsoft Windows 7 operating system
• Microsoft Windows 8 operating system
Operating system(s), certified or tested for compatibility1 (varies by model type)
• Linux®
• Microsoft Windows XP Professional SP 3

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

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Specifications
This section lists the physical specifications for your computer.
Dimensions
Width: 175 mm (6.89 inches)
Height: 414 mm (16.30 inches)
Depth: 442 mm (17.40 inches)
Weight
Maximum configuration as shipped: 11 kg (24.25 lb)
Environment
• Air temperature:
Operating: 10°C to 35°C (50°F to 95°F)
Storage: -40°C to 60°C (-40°F to 140°F) in original shipping package
Storage: -10°C to 60°C (14°F to 140°F) without package
• Humidity:
Operating: 20% to 80% (non-condensing)
Storage: 20% to 90% (non-condensing)
• Altitude:
Operating: -50 to 10 000 ft (-15.2 to 3048 m)
Storage: -50 to 35 000 ft (-15.2 to 10 668 m)
Electrical input
• Input voltage:
– Low range:
Minimum: 100 V ac
Maximum: 127 V ac
Input frequency range: 50 to 60 Hz
– High range:
Minimum: 200 V ac
Maximum: 240 V ac
Input frequency range: 50 to 60 Hz

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

Accessing Lenovo programs on the Windows 7 operating system
On the Windows 7 operating system, you can access Lenovo programs from either the Lenovo
ThinkVantage® Tools program or from Control Panel.
Accessing Lenovo programs from the Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools program
To access Lenovo programs from the Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools program, click Start ➙ All Programs ➙
Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools. Then double-click a program icon to access the program.
Chapter 1. Product overview

Note: If a program icon in the Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools program navigation window is dimmed, it
indicates that you need to install the program manually. To install the program manually, double-click the
program icon. Then, follow the instructions on the screen. When the installation process completes, the
program icon will be activated.
Table 1. Programs in the Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools program
Program

Icon name

Communications Utility

Web Conferencing

Fingerprint Software

Fingerprint Reader

Lenovo Solution Center

System Health and Diagnostics

Password Manager

Password Vault

Power Manager

Power Controls

Recovery Media

Factory Recovery Disks

Rescue and

Recovery®

Enhanced Backup and Restore

SimpleTap

System Update

Update and Drivers

View Management Utility

Screen Layout

Note: Depending on your computer model, some of the programs might not be available.
Accessing Lenovo programs from Control Panel
To access Lenovo programs from Control Panel, click Start ➙ Control Panel. Then depending on the
program you want to access, click the corresponding section and then click the corresponding green text.
Note: If you do not find the program you need in Control Panel, open the Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools
program navigation window and double-click the dimmed icon to install the program you need. Then,
follow the instructions on the screen. When the installation process completes, the program icon will be
activated, and you can find the program in Control Panel.
The programs and the corresponding sections and green texts in Control Panel are listed in the following
table.
Table 2. Programs in Control Panel
Program

Control Panel section

Green text in Control Panel

Communications Utility

Hardware and Sound

Lenovo - Web Conferencing

Fingerprint Software

System and Security

Lenovo - Fingerprint Reader

Hardware and Sound
Lenovo Solution Center

System and Security

Lenovo - System Health and
Diagnostics

Password Manager

System and Security

Lenovo - Password Vault

User Accounts and Family Safety
Power Manager

Hardware and Sound

Lenovo - Power Controls

System and Security
Recovery Media

System and Security

Lenovo - Factory Recovery Disks

Rescue and Recovery

System and Security

Lenovo - Enhanced Backup and
Restore

ThinkCentre User Guide

Table 2. Programs in Control Panel (continued)
Program

Control Panel section

Green text in Control Panel

SimpleTap

Programs

Lenovo - SimpleTap

System Update

System and Security

Lenovo - Update and Drivers

View Management Utility

System and Security

Lenovo View Management Utility

Note: Depending on your computer model, some of the programs might not be available.

Accessing Lenovo programs on the Windows 8 operating system
If your computer is preinstalled with the Windows 8 operating system, you can access Lenovo programs by
doing either of the following:
• Click the Lenovo Start icon from the taskbar. A list of programs is displayed. Double-click a Lenovo
program to launch it. If a desired program is not in the list, click the plus icon +.
• Press the Windows key to go to the Start screen. Click a Lenovo program to launch it. If you cannot find
the program you need, 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.
Your computer supports the following Lenovo programs:
• Fingerprint Software
• Lenovo Companion
• Lenovo Settings
• Lenovo Solution Center
• Lenovo QuickLaunch
• Lenovo Support
• Password Manager
• System Update

An introduction to Lenovo programs
This topic provides a brief introduction to some Lenovo programs.
Note: Depending on your computer model, some of the programs might not be available.
• Communications Utility
The Communications Utility program provides a central location for integrated camera and microphone
settings. It controls advanced settings for the integrated microphone and camera to optimize Web
conferencing and Voice over IP (VOIP) experience.
• Fingerprint Software
The integrated fingerprint reader provided on some keyboards enables you to enroll your fingerprint
and associate it with your power-on password, hard disk password, and Windows password. As a
result, fingerprint authentication can replace passwords and enable simple and secure user access. A
fingerprint reader keyboard is available with select computers or can be purchased for computers that
support this option.
• Lenovo Cloud Storage
The Lenovo Cloud Storage program is a cloud storage solution that enables you to store your files, such
as documents and pictures, on a server. You can access the stored files through the Internet from

Chapter 1. Product overview

different devices such as personal computers, smart phones, or tablets. For more information about the
Lenovo Cloud Storage program, go to http://www.lenovo.com/cloud.
• Lenovo Companion
Through the Lenovo Companion program, you can get the information about the accessories for your
computer, view bolgs and articles about your computer, and check for other recommended programs.
• Lenovo Settings
Use the Lenovo Settings program to enhance your computing experience by turning your computer into a
portable hotspot, configuring camera and audio settings, optimizing your power plan settings, and
creating and managing multiple network profiles.
• 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.
• Lenovo QuickLaunch
The Lenovo QuickLaunch program provides you with quick access to programs installed on your
computer, including Lenovo programs, Microsoft programs, and other third party programs.
• 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.
• Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools
The Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools program guides you to a host of information sources and provides easy
access to various tools to help you work more easily and securely.
• Lenovo Welcome
The Lenovo Welcome program introduces you to some innovative built-in features of Lenovo and guides
you through a few important setup tasks to help you make the most of your computer.
• Password Manager
The Password Manager program automatically captures and fills in authentication information for
Windows programs and Web sites.
• 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.
• Recovery Media
The Recovery Media program enables you to restore the contents of the hard disk drive to the factory
default settings.
• Rescue and Recovery
The Rescue and Recovery program is a one-button recovery and restore solution that includes a set of
self-recovery tools to help you diagnose computer problems, get help, and recover from system crashes,
even if you cannot start the Windows operating system.
• SimpleTap
The SimpleTap program provides you with a quick way to customize some basic computer settings such
as muting the speakers, adjusting the volume, locking the computer operating system, launching a
program, opening a Web page, opening a file, and so on. You also can use the SimpleTap program to
access the Lenovo App Shop, from which you can download various applications and computer software.
To start the SimpleTap program in a quick way, do any of the following:

ThinkCentre User Guide

– Click the red SimpleTap launch point on the desktop. The red launch point is available on the desktop
after you have launched the SimpleTap program for the first time.
– Press the blue ThinkVantage button if your keyboard has one.
Note: The SimpleTap program is only available on certain models preinstalled with the Windows 7
operating system. If your Windows 7 model is not preinstalled with the SimpleTap program, you can
download it from http://www.lenovo.com/support.
• System Update
The System Update program helps you keep the software on your computer up-to-date by downloading
and installing software update packages (Lenovo programs, device drivers, UEFI BIOS updates, and
other third party programs).
• View Management Utility
The View Management Utility program enables you to easily organize your open windows. It divides your
screen into multiple parts and then resizes and positions open windows into different parts to make the
best use of your desktop. The program also is able to work across multiple monitors to improve your
productivity.

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.

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

Chapter 1. Product overview

1 Hard disk drive activity indicator

5 USB 2.0 connector (USB port 1)

2 Power indicator

6 Headphone connector

3 Power switch

7 Microphone connector

4 Optical drive eject/close button

8 USB 2.0 connector (USB port 2)

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

9 Microphone connector

2 Serial port (Serial port 1)

10 Audio line-out connector

3 PS/2 keyboard and mouse connectors
(optional)

11 Audio line-in connector

4 VGA monitor connector

12 PCI Express x16 graphics card slot

5 DisplayPort connector

13 PCI Express x1 card slot

6 USB 3.0 connectors (USB ports 5 to 8)

14 PCI card slots (2)

7 USB 2.0 connectors (USB ports 3 and 4)

15 Cable lock slots (2)

8 Ethernet connector

16 Optional serial port (Serial port 2)

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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.

DisplayPort connector

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

Ethernet connector

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

Microphone connector

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
(optional)

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

PS/2 mouse connector
(optional)

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

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 connector, such as a USB
keyboard, a USB mouse, a USB scanner, or a USB printer. If you have more than
eight USB devices, you can purchase a USB hub, which you can use to connect
additional USB devices.

USB 3.0 connector

Used to attach a device that requires a USB 2.0 or 3.0 connector, such as a USB
keyboard, a USB mouse, a USB scanner, or a USB printer. If you have more than
eight USB devices, you can purchase a USB hub, which you can use to connect
additional USB devices.

VGA monitor connector

Used to attach a VGA monitor or other devices that use a VGA monitor connector.

Chapter 1. Product overview

Locating components
Figure 3 “Component locations” on page 12 shows the locations of the various components in your
computer. To remove the computer cover, see “Removing the computer cover” on page 34.

Figure 3. Component locations
1 Heat sink and fan assembly

9 Secondary hard disk drive bay

2 Memory modules

10 Primary hard disk drive

3 Optical drive

11 PCI card (installed in some models)

4 Front audio and USB assembly

12 Cover presence switch (intrusion switch) (installed in some
models)

5 Thermal sensor

13 Rear fan assembly

6 Internal speaker (installed in some models)

14 Power supply assembly

7 Front fan assembly (installed in some models)

15 Microprocessor

8 Secondary hard disk drive (installed in some
models)

Locating parts on the system board
Note: Your computer comes with one of the following system boards.

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

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

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

2 Microprocessor

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

3 Microprocessor fan connector

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

4 Memory slot 1 (DIMM 1)
5 Memory slot 2 (DIMM 2)

19 Battery
20 Front USB connector 2 (for connecting an additional USB
device)

6 Memory slot 3 (DIMM 3)

21 Serial (COM2) connector

7 Memory slot 4 (DIMM 4)

22 Internal speaker connector

8 Thermal sensor connector

23 Front audio connector

9 4-pin SATA power connectors (2)

24 PCI card slots (2)

10 14-pin power connector

25 DisplayPort connector

11 SATA connectors 1 and 2 (SATA 3.0 connectors)

26 PCI Express x1 card slot

12 Parallel connector

27 PCI Express x16 graphics card slot

13 eSATA connector

28 System fan connector

14 SATA connector 3 (SATA 2.0 connector)

29 Cover presence switch connector (Intrusion switch
connector)

15 Power fan connector

30 PS/2 keyboard and mouse connector

Chapter 1. Product overview

Figure 5 “System board part locations” on page 14 shows the locations of the parts on the other type
of system board.

Figure 5. System board part locations
1 4-pin microprocessor power connector

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

2 Microprocessor

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

3 Microprocessor fan connector

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

4 Memory slot 1 (DIMM 1)

19 Battery

5 Memory slot 2 (DIMM 2)

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

6 Memory slot 3 (DIMM 3)

21 Serial (COM2) connector

7 Memory slot 4 (DIMM 4)

22 Internal speaker connector

8 Thermal sensor connector

23 Front audio connector

9 4-pin SATA power connectors (2)

24 PCI card slots (2)

10 14-pin power connector

25 DisplayPort connector

11 SATA connector 1 (SATA 3.0 connector)

26 PCI Express x1 card slot

12 Parallel connector

27 PCI Express x16 graphics card slot

13 SATA connectors 2 and 3 (SATA 2.0 connectors)

28 System fan connector

14 eSATA connector
15 Power fan connector

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29 Cover presence switch connector (Intrusion switch
connector)
30 PS/2 keyboard and mouse connector

Locating internal drives
Internal drives are devices that your computer uses to read and store data. You can add drives to your
computer to increase storage capacity and enable your computer to read other types of media. Internal
drives are installed in bays. In this manual, the bays are referred to as bay 1, bay 2, and so on.
When installing or replacing an internal drive, it is important to note the type and size of the drive that you
can install or replace in each bay and correctly connect the cables to the drive installed. Refer to the
appropriate section in “Installing or replacing hardware” on page 33 for instructions on how to install or
replace internal drives for your computer.
Figure 6 “Drive bay locations” on page 15 shows the locations of the drive bays.

Figure 6. Drive bay locations
1 Bay 1 - Optical drive bay (with an optical drive installed in some models)
2 Bay 2 - Optical drive bay
3 Bay 3 - Card reader drive bay or mSATA solid-state drive bay
4 Bay 4 - Secondary SATA hard disk drive bay (for installing a 3.5-inch SATA hard disk drive or a 2.5-inch SATA
solid-state drive)
5 Bay 5 - Primary SATA hard disk drive bay (for installing a 3.5-inch SATA hard disk drive or a 2.5-inch SATA
solid-state drive)

Chapter 1. Product overview

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 7. Machine type and model label

ThinkCentre 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/ThinkCentreUserGuides
Where are my recovery discs?
Lenovo provides a program that enables you to create recovery discs. For details about creating recovery
discs, see “Creating recovery media” on page 90.
Additionally, in case of a hard disk failure, you can order Product Recovery discs from the Lenovo Customer
Support Center. For information about contacting the Customer Support Center, see Chapter 11 “Getting
information, help, and service” on page 127. Before using the Product Recovery discs, refer to the
documentation that comes with the discs.
Attention: A Product Recovery disc package might contain multiple discs. Ensure that you have all of the
discs ready before starting the recovery process. During the recovery process, you might be prompted
to change discs.
Where can I find help about the Windows operating system?
The Windows Help and Support information system provides you with detailed information about using the
Windows operating system to help you get the most of your computer. To access the Windows Help and
Support information system, do one of the following:
• On the Windows 7 operating system, click Start ➙ Help and Support.
• On the Windows 8 operating system, move your cursor to the top-right or bottom-right corner of the
screen to display the charms. Then click Settings ➙ Help.

Accessing Control Panel on the Windows 8 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 operating system, do one of the following:
• From the desktop
1. Move the cursor to the top-right or bottom-right corner of the screen to display the charms.
2. Click Settings.
3. Click Control Panel.
• From the Start screen
1. Move the cursor 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.

Using the keyboard
Depending on your model, your computer comes with either a standard keyboard or a fingerprint reader
keyboard. The Microsoft Windows shortcut keys are provided on both keyboard types.
This section provides information about the following topics:
•

“Using Windows shortcut keys” on page 18

•

“Using the blue ThinkVantage button” on page 18

•

“Using a fingerprint reader” on page 18

Using Windows shortcut keys
Both the standard keyboard and the fingerprint reader keyboard provide three keys you can use with your
Microsoft Windows operating system.
• The two Windows logo keys are located beside the Alt key on either side of the spacebar. They feature
the Windows logo. On the Windows 7 operating system, press the Windows key to open the Start menu.
On the Windows 8 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. On the Windows
7 operating system, you can close the Start menu or the context menu by clicking the mouse or pressing Esc.

Using the blue ThinkVantage button
Some keyboards have a blue ThinkVantage button that you can use to open a comprehensive on-board
help and information center from Lenovo.
On the Windows 7 operating system, pressing the blue ThinkVantage button opens the SimpleTap program.
See “An introduction to Lenovo programs” on page 7 for more information.

Using a fingerprint reader
Some computers might come with a keyboard that has a fingerprint reader. For more information about the
fingerprint reader, see “An introduction to Lenovo programs” on page 7.
To open the ThinkVantage Fingerprint Software program and use the fingerprint reader, click Start ➙ All
Programs ➙ Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools ➙ Fingerprint Reader.
Follow the instructions on the screen. For additional information, refer to the ThinkVantage Fingerprint
Software help system.

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

1 Primary mouse button

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

2 Wheel

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

3 Secondary mouse button

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

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

Adjusting audio
Sound is an important part of the computer experience. Your computer has a digital audio controller built
into the system board. Some models also have a high-performance audio adapter installed in one of the PCI
card slots.

About your computer audio
If a factory-installed, high-performance audio adapter is installed in your computer, the system-board
audio connectors on the rear of the computer are typically disabled; use the connectors provided on the
audio adapter.
Each audio solution provides at least three audio connectors: audio line-in connector, audio line-out
connector, and Microphone connector. On some models, a fourth connector is provided for the attachment
of unpowered stereo speakers (speakers that do not require an ac power source). The audio adapter
provides you with the ability to record and play back sound and music, as well as to enjoy sound with
multimedia applications and work with speech-recognition software.
Optionally, you can connect a set of powered stereo speakers to the audio line-out connector to enjoy
better sound with multimedia applications.

Setting the volume from the desktop
The desktop volume control is accessible through the volume icon in the taskbar, which is located at the
bottom-right corner of the Windows desktop. Click the volume icon and move the slider up or down to
control the volume, or click the Mute icon to turn the audio off. If the volume icon is not in the taskbar, see
“Adding the volume icon to the taskbar” on page 19.
Adding the volume icon to the taskbar
To add the volume icon to the taskbar on the Windows 7 operating system, do the following:

Chapter 2. Using your computer

1. From the Windows desktop, click Start ➙ Control Panel ➙ Appearance and Personalization.
2. In the Taskbar and Start Menu section, click Customize icons on the taskbar.
3. Click Turn system icons on or off and change the volume behaviors from Off to On.
4. Click OK to save the new settings.
To add the volume icon to the taskbar on the Windows 8 operating system, do the following:
1. Open Control Panel, and click Appearance and Personalization.
2. In the Taskbar section, click Customize icons on the taskbar.
3. Click Turn system icons on or off and change the volume behaviors from Off to On.
4. Click OK to save the new settings.

Setting the volume from Control Panel
You can set the computer volume from Control Panel. To set the computer volume from Control Panel,
do the following:
1. On the Windows 7 operating system, click Start ➙ Control Panel ➙ Hardware and Sound. On the
Windows 8 operating system, open Control Panel, and click Hardware and Sound.
2. In the Sound section, click Adjust system volume.
3. Move the sliders up or down to raise or lower the volume of your computer.

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

Handling and storing CD and DVD media
CD and DVD media are durable and reliable, but they do require some care and special handling. When
handling and storing a CD or DVD, follow these guidelines:
• 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.

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• Do not write or stick paper on the disc.
• Do not scratch or mark the disc.
• Do not place or store the disc in direct sunlight.
• Do not use benzene, thinners, or other cleaners to clean the disc.
• Do not drop or bend the disc.
• Do not insert damaged discs into the drive. Warped, scratched, or dirty discs can damage the drive.

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

Recording a CD or DVD
If your computer comes with a recordable DVD drive, you can use the drive to record CDs or DVDs.
To record a CD or DVD, do one of the following:
• On the Windows 7 operating system, you have either the Corel DVD MovieFactory Lenovo Edition program
or the Power2Go program installed on your computer.
– To run the Corel DVD MovieFactory Lenovo Edition program, click Start ➙ All Programs ➙ Corel
DVD MovieFactory Lenovo Edition ➙ Corel DVD MovieFactory Lenovo Edition. Follow the
instructions on the screen.
– To run the Power2Go program, click Start ➙ All Programs ➙ PowerDVD Create ➙ Power2Go.
Follow the instructions on the screen.
• On the Windows 8 operating system, run the Power2Go program by doing the following:
1. Move the cursor to the top-right or bottom-right corner of the screen to display the charms. Then
click Search and type Power2Go.
2. Click Power2Go in the left panel to open the program.
3. Follow the instructions on the screen.
You also can use Windows Media® Player to record CDs and data DVDs. For more information, see “Help
and Support” on page 127.

Chapter 2. Using your computer

ThinkCentre 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:
Lenovo is committed to providing people with disabilities greater access to information and technology.
As a result, the following information provides ways to help users that have hearing, vision, and mobility
limitations get the most out of their computer experience.
Assistive technologies enable users to access information in the most appropriate way. Some of these
technologies are already provided in your operating system, others can be purchased through vendors, or
accessed through the World Wide Web:
http://www.lenovo.com/healthycomputing

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

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

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, ensure that the vented air is not blowing on people.

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

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Registering your computer
When you register your computer, information is entered into a database, which enables Lenovo to contact
you in case of a recall or other severe problem. After you register your computer with Lenovo, you will receive
quicker service when you call Lenovo for help. In addition, some locations offer extended privileges and
services to registered users.
To register your computer with Lenovo, do one of the following:
• Go to http://www.lenovo.com/register and follow the instructions on the screen to register your computer.
• Connect your computer to the Internet and register your computer through a preinstalled registration
program:
– For Windows 7: The preinstalled Lenovo Product Registration program launches automatically after you
have used your computer for a time. Follow the instructions on the screen to register your computer.
– For Windows 8: Open the Lenovo Support program. Then click Registration and follow the instructions
on the screen to register your computer.

Moving your computer to another country or region
When you move your computer to another country or region, you must take local electrical standards into
consideration. This section provides information on the following:
•

“Voltage-selection switch” on page 25

•

“Replacement power cords” on page 26

Voltage-selection switch
Some computers are equipped with a voltage-selection switch located near the power-cord connection
point on the computer and some computers do not have a voltage-selection switch. Before you install
your computer or relocate your computer to another country or region, you must be certain that you have
matched your computer to the voltage available at your electrical outlet.
CAUTION:
You must know the voltage of the electrical connection (outlet) where your computer will be
connected. If you do not know the voltage, contact your local electric company or refer to official
Web sites or other literature for travelers to the country or region where you are located.
If your computer has a voltage-selection switch, you must set the switch to match the voltage available at
your electrical outlet. Setting the voltage-selection switch incorrectly will cause the computer to malfunction
and might cause permanent damage to the computer. Do not connect the computer to an electrical
outlet until you have verified that the voltage-selection switch setting matches the voltage available at the
electrical outlets.
If your computer does not have a voltage-selection switch, inspect the voltage-rating label on the bottom of
the computer and note the following:
• If the voltage-rating label shows a range of either “100-127 V” or “200-240 V,” you must ensure that the
voltage provided at the electrical outlet matches the voltage rating on the computer label. If it does
not match, do not attempt to connect the computer to the electrical outlet, unless an external device
such as a voltage-converting transformer is used.
• If the voltage-rating label shows a dual range of “100-127 V” and “200-240 V,” this signifies that the
computer is suitable for worldwide operation and the computer will automatically adjust to the voltage at
the electrical outlet regardless of the country or region where the computer is being connected.

Chapter 3. You and your computer

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

ThinkCentre 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 97.
2. Set the Administrator Password. See “Setting, changing, and deleting a password” on page 98.
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 86.
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 99.
• 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 100.
• Startup without keyboard or mouse
Your computer is able to log in to the operating system without keyboard or mouse connected.
• Trusted Platform Module (TPM)
Trusted Platform Module is a secure cryptoprocessor that can store cryptographic keys that protect
information stored in your computer.

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 8. Installing a padlock

ThinkCentre User Guide

Attaching a cable lock
A cable lock can be used to secure devices, such as the keyboard and the mouse, by locking the device
cables to your computer. The cable lock attaches to the cable lock slots on the rear of your computer. See
“Locating connectors on the rear of your computer” on page 10.
To install a cable lock, do the following:
1. Insert the clip 1 into the cable lock slot 4 .
2. Pull the cables you want to lock through the dents in the cable lock.
3. Press the clip 2 into the cable lock slot 3 until it snaps into position.

Figure 9. Installing a cable lock

Chapter 4. Security

Attaching an integrated cable lock
An integrated cable lock, sometimes referred to as the Kensington lock, can be used to secure your
computer to a desk, table, or other non-permanent fixture. The cable lock attaches to the integrated cable
lock slot at the rear of your computer and is operated with a key. The cable lock also locks the buttons used
to open the computer cover. This is the same type of lock used with many notebook computers. You can
order an integrated cable lock directly from Lenovo by searching for Kensington at:
http://www.lenovo.com/support

Figure 10. Integrated cable lock

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

BIOS passwords
You can use the BIOS Setup Utility program to set passwords to prevent unauthorized access to your
computer and data. The following types of passwords are available:
• Power-On Password: When a Power-On Password is set, you are prompted to type a valid password
each time the computer is turned on. The computer cannot be used until the valid password is typed
in. For more information, see “Power-On Password” on page 98.
• Hard Disk Password: Setting a Hard Disk Password prevents unauthorized access to the data on the hard
disk drive. When a Hard Disk Password is set, you are prompted to type a valid password each time you
try to access the hard disk drive. For more information, see “Hard Disk Password” on page 98.

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• Administrator Password: Setting an Administrator Password deters unauthorized users from changing
configuration settings. If you are responsible for maintaining the configuration settings of several
computers, you might want to set an Administrator Password. For more information, see “Administrator
Password” on page 98.
You do not have to set any passwords to use your computer. However, using passwords improves
computing security.

Windows passwords
Depending on your version of the Windows operating system, you can use passwords for a variety of
features, including controlling login access, access to shared resources, network access, and individual user
settings. For more information, see “Help and Support” on page 127.

Configuring the fingerprint reader
If your keyboard has a fingerprint reader, you can configure the fingerprint reader in the Setup Utility program.
The Fingerprint Setup submenu under the Security menu of the Setup Utility program provides the
following options:
• Preboot Authentication: enables or disables the fingerprint authentication for accessing the BIOS.
• Erase Fingerprint Data: clears the fingerprint data stored in a fingerprint reader.
To configure the fingerprint reader, do the following:
1. Start the Setup Utility program. See “Starting the Setup Utility program” on page 97.
2. From the Setup Utility program main menu, select Security ➙ Fingerprint Setup, and press Enter.
The Fingerprint Setup window opens.
3. Select Preboot Authentication or Erase Fingerprint Data as desired, and press Enter.
4. Select the desired settings and press Enter.
5. Press F10 to save changes and exit the Setup Utility program. Press Enter when prompted to confirm
the exit.

Using and understanding firewalls
A firewall can be hardware, software, or a combination of both depending on the level of security required.
Firewalls work on a set of rules to determine which inbound and outbound connections are authorized. If
your computer is preintalled with a firewall program, it helps protect against computer Internet security
threats, unauthorized access, intrusions, and Internet attacks. It also protects your privacy. For more
information about how to use the firewall program, refer to the help system of your firewall program.
The Windows operating system preinstalled on your computer provides the Windows Firewall. For details on
using the Windows Firewall, refer to “Help and Support” on page 127.

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.

Chapter 4. Security

For more information about how to use your antivirus software, refer to the help system of your antivirus
software.

ThinkCentre 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:
1. Use only computer parts provided by Lenovo.
2. When installing or replacing an option, use the appropriate instructions in this section along with the
instructions that come with the option.

Installing external options
You can connect external options to your computer, such as external speakers, a printer, or a scanner. For
some external options, you must install additional software in addition to making the physical connection.
When installing an external option, see “Locating connectors, controls, and indicators on the front of your
computer” on page 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 remove the computer cover.
CAUTION:
Turn off the computer and wait three to five minutes to let the computer cool before removing the
computer cover.
To remove the computer cover, do the following:
1. Remove any media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer.
2. Disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets.
3. Disconnect the power cords, Input/Output cables, and any other cables that are connected to the
computer. See “Locating connectors, controls, and indicators on the front of your computer” on page 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 a padlock or an integrated cable
lock. See “Locking the computer cover” on page 28 and “Attaching an integrated cable lock” on page 30.
5. Remove any screws that secure the computer cover.
6. Press the cover-release button on the side of the computer and slide the cover to the rear of the
computer to remove the cover.

Figure 11. Removing the computer cover

ThinkCentre User Guide

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

This section provides instructions on how to remove and reinstall the front bezel.
To remove and reinstall the front bezel, do the following:
1. Turn off the computer and disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets.
2. Remove the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 34.
3. Remove the front bezel by releasing the three plastic tabs on the left side and pivoting the front bezel
outward.

Figure 12. Removing the front bezel

4. To reinstall the front bezel, align the three plastic tabs on the right side of the front bezel with the
corresponding holes in the chassis, then pivot the front bezel inwards until it snaps into position on
the left side.
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 86.

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

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

This section provides instructions on how to install or replace a PCI card. Your computer has two standard
PCI card slots, one PCI Express x1 card slot, and one PCI Express x16 graphics card slot.
To install or replace a PCI card, do the following:
1. Turn off the computer and disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets.
2. Remove the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 34.
3. At the rear of the computer, press the release button 1 to open the card latch 2 .

Figure 13. Opening the PCI card latch

4. Depending on whether you are installing or replacing a PCI card, do one of the following:
• If you are installing a PCI card, remove the appropriate metal slot cover.
• If you are replacing an old PCI card, grasp the old card that is currently installed and gently pull it
out of the slot.

ThinkCentre User Guide

Figure 14. Removing a PCI card

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

5. Remove the new PCI card from its static-protective package.
6. Install the new card into the appropriate slot on the system board. See “Locating parts on the system
board” on page 12.
Note: If you are installing a PCI Express x16 graphics card, ensure that the memory slot retaining clips
are closed before you install the graphics card.

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

7. Pivot the card latch to the closed position to secure the PCI card.

Figure 15. Installing a PCI card

What to do next:
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.
• To complete the installation or replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 86.

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

This section provides instructions on how to install or replace a memory module.
Your computer has four slots for installing or replacing DDR3 UDIMMs that provide up to a maximum of
32 GB system memory. When installing or replacing a memory module, use 2 GB, 4 GB, or 8 GB DDR3
UDIMMs in any combination up to a maximum of 32 GB.
The following table provides information about the memory module installation rules that you should
consider when installing or removing a memory module. The “X” mark indicates the memory slot(s) into
which the memory module(s) should be installed in different situations. The numbers 1, 2, 3, and 4 indicate
the installation sequence. To locate the memory module slots, see “Locating parts on the system board”
on page 12.

ThinkCentre User Guide

UDIMM

DIMM 1

DIMM 2

DIMM 3

DIMM 4

One UDIMM

Two UDIMMs

X, 1

X, 2
X, 2

Three UDIMMs

X, 3

X, 1

Four UDIMMs

X, 3

X, 1

X, 4

X, 2

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 34.
3. Lay the computer on its side for easier access to the system board.
4. Locate the memory slots. See “Locating parts on the system board” on page 12.
5. Remove any parts that might prevent your access to the memory slots. Depending on your computer
model, you might need to remove the PCI Express x16 graphics card for easier access to the memory
slots. See “Installing or replacing a PCI card” on page 35.
6. Depending on whether you are installing or replacing a memory module, do one of the following:
• If you are replacing an old memory module, open the retaining clips and gently pull the memory
module out of the memory slot.

Figure 16. Removing a memory module

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

• 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 17. Opening the retaining clips

7. Position the new memory module over the memory slot. Ensure 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 18. Installing a memory module

8. Reinstall the PCI Express x16 graphics card if you have removed it.
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 86.

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.
To install or replace an optical drive, do the following:

ThinkCentre User Guide

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 34.
3. Remove the front bezel. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on page 35.
4. Depending on whether you are installing or replacing an optical drive, do one of the following:
• If you are installing a secondary optical drive, remove the plastic panel in the front bezel for the
drive bay you want to use. If there is a metal static shield installed in the drive bay, remove the
metal static shield.
• If you are replacing an optical drive, disconnect the signal cable and the power cable from the rear
of the optical drive, press the blue release button, and then slide the optical drive out of the front
of the computer.

Figure 19. Removing the optical drive

5. Install the optical drive retainer on the side of the new optical drive.

Figure 20. Installing the optical drive retainer

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

6. Slide the new optical drive into the drive bay from the front of the computer until the optical drive
snaps into position.

Figure 21. Installing the optical drive

7. Connect the signal cable and the power cable to the new optical drive.

Figure 22. Connecting the optical drive

8. Reinstall the front bezel. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on page 35.
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 86.

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

ThinkCentre User Guide

This section provides instructions on how to install or replace the card reader.
Note: The card reader is only available in some models. For new installation, see “Installing the card reader”
on page 43. For replacement, see “Replacing the card reader” on page 45.

Installing the card reader
To install the card reader, do the following:
1. Remove all media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer. Then, disconnect
all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables that are connected to the computer.
2. Remove the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 34.
3. Remove the front bezel. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on page 35.
4. Locate the card reader drive bay. See “Locating internal drives” on page 15.
5. Pivot the card reader retainer to the left and slide it out of the chassis.

Figure 23. Removing the card reader retainer

6. Install the card reader retainer on the side of the new card reader.

Figure 24. Installing the card reader retainer
Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

7. Slide the card reader with retainer into the card reader drive bay until it snaps into position.

Figure 25. Installing the card reader

8. Connect the card reader cable to Front USB connector 2 on the system board. See “Locating parts on
the system board” on page 12.
9. Reinstall the front bezel. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on page 35.
Note: You might have to remove the card reader cover 2 from the front bezel. To remove the card read
cover, pivot the two retaining clips 1 that secure the card reader cover outwards and then completely
disengage the card reader cover from the front bezel.

Figure 26. Removing the card reader cover

ThinkCentre User Guide

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 86.

Replacing the card reader
To replace the card reader, do the following:
1. Remove all media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer. Then, disconnect
all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables that are connected to the computer.
2. Remove the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 34.
3. Remove the front bezel. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on page 35.
4. Locate the card reader. See “Locating components” on page 12.
5. Disconnect the card reader cable from the USB connector on the system board. See “Locating parts on
the system board” on page 12.
6. Press the blue retaining clip to remove the card reader out of the chassis.

Figure 27. Removing the card reader

7. Install the card reader retainer on the side of the new card reader.

Figure 28. Installing the card reader retainer

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

8. Slide the new card reader into the drive bay until it snaps into position.

Figure 29. Installing the card reader

9. Reconnect the card reader cable to Front USB connector 2 on the system board. See “Locating parts
on the system board” on page 12.
10. Reinstall the front bezel. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on page 35.
11. To complete the installation or replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 86.

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.
2. Remove the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 34.
3. Locate the battery. See “Locating parts on the system board” on page 12.

ThinkCentre User Guide

4. Remove the old battery.

Figure 30. Removing the old battery

5. Install a new battery.

Figure 31. Installing a new battery

6. Reinstall the computer cover and connect the cables. See “Completing the parts replacement” on
page 86.
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 97.
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 86.

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:

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

Hazardous moving parts. Keep fingers and other body parts away.
CAUTION:
Never remove the cover on a power supply or any part that has the following label attached.

Hazardous voltage, current, and energy levels are present inside any component that has this label
attached. There are no serviceable parts inside these components. If you suspect a problem with
one of these parts, contact a service technician.
To replace the power supply assembly, do the following:
1. Turn off the computer and disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets.
2. Remove the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 34.
3. Disconnect the power supply assembly cables from the system board and all drives. See “Locating
parts on the system board” on page 12.
4. Release the power supply assembly cables from the cable clips and ties in the chassis.

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5. Lay the computer on its side and remove the four screws at the rear of the chassis that secure the
power supply assembly.

Figure 32. Removing the screws for the power supply assembly

6. Slide the power supply assembly to the front of the computer and then lift it out of the chassis.
7. Ensure that the new power supply assembly is the correct replacement.
8. Install the new power supply assembly into the chassis so that the screw holes in the power supply
assembly align with those in the chassis.
9. Install and tighten the four screws to secure the power supply assembly.
Note: Use only screws provided by Lenovo.
10. Reconnect the power supply assembly cables to the system board and each of the drives.
11. Secure the power supply assembly cables with the cable clips and ties in the chassis.
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 86.

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

This section provides instructions on how to replace the heat sink and fan assembly.
CAUTION:
The heat sink and fan assembly might be very hot. Turn off the computer and wait three to five
minutes to let the computer cool before removing the computer cover.

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

To replace the heat sink and fan assembly, 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 34.
3. Lay the computer on its side for easier access to the system board.
4. Locate the heat sink and fan assembly. See “Locating parts on the system board” on page 12.
5. Disconnect the heat sink and fan assembly cable from the microprocessor fan connector on the system
board. See “Locating parts on the system board” on page 12.
6. Follow this sequence to remove the four screws that secure the heat sink and fan assembly to the
system board:
a. Partially remove screw 1 , then fully remove screw 2 , and then fully remove screw 1 .
b. Partially remove screw 3 , then fully remove screw 4 , and then fully remove screw 3 .
Note: Carefully remove the four screws from the system board to avoid any possible damage to the
system board. The four screws cannot be removed from the heat sink and fan assembly.

Figure 33. Removing the heat sink and fan assembly

7. Lift the failing heat sink and fan assembly off the system board.
Notes:
a. You might have to gently twist the heat sink and fan assembly to free it from the microprocessor.
b. Do not touch the thermal grease while handling the heat sink and fan assembly.
8. Position the new heat sink and fan assembly on the system board so that the four screws are aligned
with the holes on the system board.
Note: Position the new heat sink and fan assembly so that the heat sink and fan assembly cable is
toward the microprocessor fan connector on the system board.
9. Follow the following sequence to install the four screws to secure the new heat sink and fan assembly.
Do not over-tighten the screws.

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a. Partially tighten screw 1 , then fully tighten screw 2 , and then fully tighten screw 1 .
b. Partially tighten screw 3 , then fully tighten screw 4 , and then fully tighten screw 3 .
10. Connect the heat sink and fan assembly cable to the microprocessor fan connector on the system
board. See “Locating parts on the system board” on page 12.
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 86.

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

This section provides instructions on how to replace the microprocessor.
CAUTION:
The heat sink and microprocessor might be very hot. Turn off the computer and wait three to five
minutes to let the computer cool before removing the computer cover.
To replace the microprocessor, do the following:
1. Remove all media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer. Then, disconnect
all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables that are connected to the computer.
2. Remove the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 34.
3. Lay the computer on its side for easier access to the system board.
4. Locate the system board and disconnect all cables connected to the system board. See “Locating
parts on the system board” on page 12.
5. Remove the heat sink and fan assembly. See “Replacing the heat sink and fan assembly” on page 49.
Note: Place the heat sink and fan assembly on its side so that the thermal grease on the bottom of it
does not get in contact with anything.

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

6. Lift the small handle 1 and open the retainer 2 to access the microprocessor 3 .

Figure 34. Accessing the microprocessor

7. Lift the microprocessor straight up and out of the microprocessor socket.

Figure 35. Removing the microprocessor

Notes:
a. Your microprocessor and socket might look different from the one illustrated.

ThinkCentre User Guide

b. Note the orientation of the microprocessor in the socket. You can either look for the small triangle 1
on one corner of the microprocessor or note the orientation of the notches 2 on the microprocessor.
This is important when installing the new microprocessor on the system board.

c. Touch only the edges of the microprocessor. Do not touch the gold contacts on the bottom.
d. Do not drop anything onto the microprocessor socket while it is exposed. The socket pins must be
kept as clean as possible.
8. Ensure that the small handle is in the raised position and the microprocessor retainer is fully open.
9. Remove the protective cover that protects the gold contacts of the new microprocessor.
10. Hold the new microprocessor by its sides and align the small triangle on one corner of the new
microprocessor with the corresponding small triangle on one corner of the microprocessor socket.
11. Lower the new microprocessor straight down into the microprocessor socket on the system board.

Figure 36. Installing the microprocessor

12. Close the microprocessor retainer and lock it into position with the small handle to secure the new
microprocessor in the socket.
13. Reinstall the heat sink and fan assembly. See “Replacing the heat sink and fan assembly” on page 49.
14. Reconnect all cables that were disconnected from the system board.

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

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 86.

Installing 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.

This section provides instructions on how to install the 2.5-inch solid-state drive.
To install the solid-state drive, do the following:
1. Install the solid-state drive into the storage converter. Then, install the four screws to secure the
solid-state drive to the storage converter.

Figure 37. Installing the solid-state drive into the storage converter

ThinkCentre User Guide

2. To install the solid-state drive with the storage converter into the 3.5-inch hard disk drive bracket, flex
the bracket and align pin 1 , pin 2 , pin 3 , and pin 4 on the bracket with the corresponding holes in
the storage converter.

Figure 38. Installing the solid-state drive with the storage converter into the hard disk drive bracket

3. Connect the signal cable and the power cable to the solid-state drive.
4. Install the solid-state drive into the desired hard disk drive bay. See “Replacing the primary hard disk
drive” on page 61 or “Replacing the secondary hard disk drive” on page 63.
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 86.

Installing or replacing the mSATA solid-state 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 mSATA solid-state drive.
Note: The mSATA solid-state drive is only available in some models. For new installation, see “Installing
the mSATA solid-state drive” on page 55. For replacement, see “Replacing the mSATA solid-state drive”
on page 57.

Installing the mSATA solid-state drive
To install the mSATA solid-state drive, do the following:

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

1. Insert the mSATA solid-state drive into the mini PCI Express slot on the storage converter, and then
press the mSATA solid-state drive downward.

Figure 39. Installing the mSATA solid-state drive into the storage converter

2. Install the two screws to secure the mSATA solid-state drive to the storage converter.

Figure 40. Installing the screws that secure the mSATA solid-state drive

ThinkCentre User Guide

3. Slide the mSATA solid-state drive storage converter into the card reader drive bay until it snaps into
position.

Figure 41. Installing the mSATA solid-state drive

4. Connect the signal cable and the power cable to the mSATA 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 86.

Replacing the mSATA solid-state drive
To replace the mSATA solid-state drive, do the following:
1. Remove all media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer. Then, disconnect
all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables that are connected to the computer.
2. Remove the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 34.
3. Remove the front bezel. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on page 35.
4. Locate the card reader. See “Locating components” on page 12.
5. Disconnect the signal cable and power cable from the mSATA solid-state drive.

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

6. Press the blue retaining clip to remove the mSATA solid-state drive storage converter out of the chassis.

Figure 42. Removing the mSATA solid-state drive storage converter

7. Remove the two screws that secure the mSATA solid-state drive from the storage converter.

Figure 43. Removing the screws that secure the mSATA solid-state drive

ThinkCentre User Guide

8. Pull the mSATA solid-state drive from the mini PCI Express slot on the storage converter.

Figure 44. Removing the mSATA solid-state drive

9. To install a new mSATA solid-state drive, insert the mSATA solid-state drive into the mini PCI Express
slot on the storage converter, and then press the mSATA solid-state drive downward.

Figure 45. Installing the mSATA solid-state drive into the storage converter

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

10. Install the two screws to secure the mSATA solid-state drive to the storage converter.

Figure 46. Installing the screws that secure the mSATA solid-state drive

11. Slide the mSATA solid-state drive storage converter into the card reader drive bay until it snaps into
position.

Figure 47. Installing the mSATA solid-state drive

12. Connect the signal cable and the power cable to the mSATA 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 86.

ThinkCentre User Guide

Replacing the primary 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 primary hard disk drive.
Note: Depending on your model type, your computer might come with a 2.5-inch solid-state drive. To install
the solid-state drive, see “Installing the solid-state drive” on page 54.
To replace the primary 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 34.
3. Locate the primary hard disk drive. See “Locating internal drives” on page 15.
4. Disconnect the signal cable and the power cable from the hard disk drive.
5. Pull the blue handle to release and remove the hard disk drive from the drive cage.

Figure 48. Removing the primary hard disk drive

6. Flex the sides of the blue bracket to remove the hard disk drive from the bracket.

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

7. To install a new hard disk drive into the blue bracket, flex the bracket and align pin 1 , pin 2 , pin 3 ,
and pin 4 on the bracket with the corresponding holes in the hard disk drive. Do not touch the circuit
board 5 on the bottom of the hard disk drive.

Figure 49. Installing the hard disk drive into the bracket

8. Slide the new hard disk drive into the drive cage until it snaps into position.

Figure 50. Installing the primary hard disk drive

9. Connect the signal cable and the power cable to the new 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 86.
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ThinkCentre User Guide

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

Note: Your computer comes with a secondary hard disk drive bay for installing or replacing a secondary
3.5-inch hard disk drive or a 2.5-inch solid-state drive. To install the solid-state drive, see “Installing the
solid-state drive” on page 54.
This section provides instructions on how to replace the secondary hard disk drive.
To replace the secondary 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 34.
3. Locate the secondary hard disk drive. See “Locating internal drives” on page 15.
4. Disconnect the signal cable and the power cable from the hard disk drive.
5. Pull the blue handle to release and remove the hard disk drive from the hard disk drive cage.

Figure 51. Removing the secondary hard disk drive

6. Flex the sides of the blue bracket to remove the hard disk drive from the bracket.

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

Figure 52. Installing the hard disk drive into the bracket

8. Slide the new hard disk drive into the hard disk drive cage until it snaps into position.

Figure 53. Installing the secondary hard disk drive

ThinkCentre User Guide

Replacing the front 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 front fan assembly.
Note: The front fan assembly is only available in some models.
To replace the front fan assembly, 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 34.
3. Remove the front bezel. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on page 35.
4. Disconnect the front fan assembly cable from the power fan connector on the system board. See
“Locating parts on the system board” on page 12.
5. The front fan assembly is attached to the chassis by four rubber mounts. Remove the front fan assembly
by breaking or cutting the rubber mounts and gently pulling the front fan assembly out of the chassis.
Note: The new front fan assembly will have four new rubber mounts attached.

Figure 54. Removing the front fan assembly

6. Install the new front fan assembly by aligning the new rubber mounts with the corresponding holes in
the chassis and push the rubber mounts through the holes.

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

7. Pull the tips of the rubber mounts until the front fan assembly is secured in place.

Figure 55. Installing the front fan assembly

8. Connect the front fan assembly cable to the power fan connector on the system board.
9. Reinstall the front bezel. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on page 35.
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 86.

Replacing the rear 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 rear fan assembly.
To replace the rear fan assembly, 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 34.
3. Locate the rear fan assembly. See “Locating components” on page 12.
4. Disconnect the rear fan assembly cable from the system fan connector on the system board. See
“Locating parts on the system board” on page 12.

ThinkCentre User Guide

5. The rear fan assembly is attached to the chassis by four rubber mounts. Remove the rear fan assembly
by breaking or cutting the rubber mounts and gently pulling the rear fan assembly out of the chassis.
Note: The new rear fan assembly will have four new rubber mounts attached.

Figure 56. Removing the rear fan assembly

6. Install the new rear fan assembly by aligning the new rubber mounts with the corresponding holes in the
chassis and push the rubber mounts through the holes.

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

7. Pull the tips of the rubber mounts until the rear fan assembly is secured in place.

Figure 57. Installing the rear fan assembly

8. Connect the rear fan assembly cable to the system fan connector 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 86.

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. Turn off the computer and disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets.
2. Remove the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 34.
3. Remove the front bezel. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on page 35.
4. Locate the front audio and USB assembly. See “Locating components” on page 12.

ThinkCentre User Guide

5. Disconnect the front audio and USB assembly cables from the system board. See “Locating parts on
the system board” on page 12.
Note: Ensure that you note the locations of the cables when you disconnect the cables from the
system board.
6. Remove the screw that secures the front audio and USB assembly bracket to the chassis to remove
the bracket from the chassis.

Figure 58. Removing the screw that secures the front audio and USB assembly to the chassis

7. Remove the two screws that secure the front audio and USB assembly to its bracket and 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 into the chassis and align the screw hole in the
bracket with the corresponding hole in the chassis.
10. Install the screw to secure the bracket to the chassis.
11. Reconnect the front audio and USB assembly cables to the front audio connector and the front USB
connector on the system board. See “Locating parts on the system board” on page 12.
12. Reinstall the front bezel. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on page 35.
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 86.

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

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

This section provides instructions on how to replace the internal speaker.
Note: The internal speaker is only available on some models.
To replace the internal speaker, 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 34.
3. Locate the internal speaker connector on the system board. See “Locating parts on the system board”
on page 12.
4. Disconnect the internal speaker cable from the system board.
5. Push the metal tab 1 on the right side of the internal speaker and slide the internal speaker toward the
right to completely remove it from the chassis.

Figure 59. Removing the old internal speaker

ThinkCentre User Guide

6. Position the new internal speaker into the four metal clips 1 and push the internal speaker toward the
left until it is secured in place.

Figure 60. Installing a new internal speaker

7. Connect the internal speaker cable to the system board. See “Locating parts on the system board”
on page 12.
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 86.

Replacing the thermal sensor
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 thermal sensor.
To replace the thermal sensor, 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 34.
3. Remove the front bezel. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on page 35.
4. Locate the thermal sensor. See “Locating components” on page 12.
5. Disconnect the thermal sensor cable from the thermal sensor connector on the system board. See
“Locating parts on the system board” on page 12.

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

6. From inside the chassis, pivot the upper retaining clip 1 that secures the plastic holder of the thermal
sensor downward and then push the clip outward to release the clip. Then disengage the plastic
holder holding the thermal sensor from the chassis.

Figure 61. Removing the thermal sensor

7. Pull the entire thermal sensor out of the chassis.

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8. Insert the connector and cable of the new thermal sensor into the lower hole 1 in the chassis. Then
align the two tabs on the plastic holder holding the thermal sensor with the two holes 1 and 2 in the
chassis, and push the plastic holder until it snaps into position.

Figure 62. Installing the new thermal sensor

9. Reconnect the thermal sensor cable to the system board. See “Locating parts on the system board”
on page 12.
10. Reinstall the front bezel. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on page 35.
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 86.

Replacing the cover presence switch
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 cover presence switch (intrusion switch).
To replace the cover presence switch, 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 34.
3. Remove the front bezel. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on page 35.
4. Locate the cover presence switch. See “Locating components” on page 12.
5. Disconnect the cover presence switch cable from the cover presence switch connector on the system
board. See “Locating parts on the system board” on page 12.

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

6. Remove the screw that secures the cover presence switch and remove the cover presence switch
from the chassis.

Figure 63. Removing the cover presence switch

ThinkCentre User Guide

7. Position the new cover presence switch so that the screw hole in the cover presence switch is aligned
with the corresponding hole in the chassis. Then install the screw to secure the cover presence
switch to the chassis.

Figure 64. Installing the new cover presence switch

8. Reconnect the cover presence switch cable to the system board. See “Locating parts on the system
board” on page 12.
9. Reinstall the front bezel. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on page 35.
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 86.

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 76

•

“Removing the WiFi card module” on page 78

•

“Installing the WiFi units” on page 79

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

Removing the WiFi adapter card
To remove a 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 34.
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 65. 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.

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4. At the rear of the computer, press the release button 1 to open the PCI card latch 2 .

Figure 66. Opening the PCI card latch

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 67. 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 68. Removing the WiFi antenna cables

ThinkCentre User Guide

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

Figure 69. 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 70. 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 71. Installing the WiFi card module

ThinkCentre User Guide

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

Figure 72. Installing the WiFi antenna cables

3. Install the WiFi adapter card into the PCI Express x1 slot on the system board. See “Locating parts on
the system board” on page 12.
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. Pivot the card latch to the closed position to secure the WiFi adapter card.

Figure 73. Installing the WiFi adapter card

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

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 86.

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

6
7

Figure 74. 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 86.

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.
82

ThinkCentre User Guide

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.

6
7

Figure 75. Removing 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 86.

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 34.
3. Remove the front bezel. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on page 35.
4. Peel off the paper that protects the sticker on the front antenna.

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

Figure 76. Peeling off the paper that protects the sticker

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 77. Installing the front WiFi antenna

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

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What to do next:
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.
• To complete the installation or replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 86.

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 34.
3. Remove the front bezel. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on page 35.
4. Disconnect the front antenna cable from the WiFi card module.
5. Remove the front antenna and cable from the front of the computer.

Figure 78. 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 86.

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

This section provides instructions on how to replace the keyboard or mouse.
To replace the keyboard or mouse, do the following:
1. Remove any media from the drives. Then, turn off all attached devices and the computer.
2. Disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets.
Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

3. Disconnect the old keyboard cable or mouse cable from the computer.
4. Connect a new keyboard or mouse to one of the USB connectors on the computer. Depending on where
you want to connect the new keyboard or mouse, see “Locating connectors, controls, and indicators on
the front of your computer” on page 9 or “Locating connectors on the rear of your computer” on page 10.

Figure 79. Connecting the USB keyboard or mouse

What to do next:
• To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section.
• To complete the installation or replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 86.

Completing the parts replacement
After completing the installation or replacement for all parts, you need to reinstall the computer cover and
reconnect cables. Depending on the parts you installed or replaced, you might need to confirm the updated
information in the Setup Utility program. Refer to Chapter 7 “Using the Setup Utility program” on page 97.
To reinstall the computer cover and reconnect cables to your computer, do the following:
1. Ensure that all components have been reassembled correctly and that no tools or loose screws are left
inside your computer. See “Locating components” on page 12 for the locations of various components
in your computer.
2. If you have removed the front bezel, reinstall it. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on
page 35.
3. Ensure that the cables are routed correctly before reinstalling the computer cover. Keep cables clear of
the hinges and sides of the computer chassis to avoid interference with reinstalling the computer cover.

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4. Position the computer cover on the chassis so that the rail guides on the bottom of the computer
cover engage the rails on the chassis. Then, push the cover to the front of the computer until it snaps
into position.

Figure 80. Reinstalling the computer cover

5. Install the screws to secure the computer cover.
6. If there is a padlock available, lock the computer cover. See “Locking the computer cover” on page 28.
7. If there is an integrated cable lock available, lock the computer. See “Attaching an integrated cable
lock” on page 30.
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, refer to Chapter 7 “Using the Setup Utility program” on page 97.
Note: In most areas of the world, Lenovo requires the return of the defective Customer Replaceable Unit
(CRU). Information about this will come with the CRU or will come a few days after the CRU arrives.

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

Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware

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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 89

•

“Recovery information for the Windows 8 operating system” on page 95

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 94.

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 91.

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. Ensure that the computer is turned off.

Chapter 6. Recovery information

2. Turn on your computer. When you see the logo screen, press Enter, and then press F11 to enter the
Rescue and Recovery workspace.
3. If you have set a Rescue and Recovery password, type your password when prompted. The Rescue
and Recovery workspace opens after a short delay.
Note: If the Rescue and Recovery workspace fails to open, see “Solving recovery problems” on page 94.
4. Do one of the following:
• To rescue files from your hard disk drive, click Rescue files and follow the instructions on the screen.
• To restore your hard disk drive from a Rescue and Recovery backup or to restore your hard disk drive
to the factory default settings, click Full Restore and follow the instructions on the screen.
For more information about the features of the Rescue and Recovery workspace, click Help.
Note: After restoring your hard disk drive to the factory default state, you might have to reinstall device
drivers for some devices. See “Reinstalling device drivers” on page 94.

Creating and using a rescue medium
With a rescue medium, such as a disc or a USB hard disk drive, you can recover the computer from failures
that prevent you from gaining access to the Rescue and Recovery workspace on your hard disk drive.
Notes:
1. The recovery operations you can perform using a rescue medium vary depending on the operating
system.
2. The rescue disc can be started in all types of optical drives.

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

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

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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. Go to the C:\SWTOOLS directory.
3. Open the apps folder. Within the apps folder, there are several subfolders named for various applications
installed in your computer.
4. Open the appropriate application subfolder.
5. In the application subfolder, look for a SETUP.EXE file or other appropriate EXE files for setup.
Double-click the file and follow the instructions on the screen to complete the installation.
Reinstalling preinstalled device drivers
This section provides instructions on how to reinstall preinstalled device drivers.
Attention: When you reinstall device drivers, you are changing the current configuration of your computer.
Reinstall device drivers only when it is necessary to correct a problem with your computer.
To reinstall the device driver for a factory-installed device, do the following:
1. Turn on the computer.
2. Go to the C:\SWTOOLS directory.
3. Open the DRIVERS folder. Within the DRIVERS folder, there are several subfolders named for various
devices installed in your computer, such as AUDIO or VIDEO.
4. Open the appropriate device subfolder.
5. Do one of the following:
• In the device subfolder, look for a SETUP.exe file. Double-click the file and follow the instructions on
the screen to complete the installation.
• In the device subfolder, look for a README.txt file or a file with the .txt extension. This file might be
named after the operating system, such as WIN98.txt. The TXT file contains information about how to
install the device driver. Follow the instructions to complete the installation.
• If the device subfolder contains a file with the .inf extension and you want to install the device
driver using the INF file, refer to your Windows Help and Support information system for detailed
information about how to install the device driver.
Note: If you need updated device drivers, see “Getting the latest device drivers for your computer” on
page 105 for more information.
Chapter 6. Recovery 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. Go to the C:\SWTOOLS directory.
3. Open the APPS folder. Within the APPS folder, there are several subfolders named for various
applications installed in your computer.
4. Open the appropriate application subfolder.
5. In the application subfolder, look for a SETUP.EXE file or other appropriate EXE files for setup.
Double-click the file and follow the instructions on the screen to complete the installation.

Reinstalling device drivers
To reinstall a device driver for an option you installed, refer to the documentation that comes with the option.
When you reinstall device drivers, you are changing the current configuration of your computer. Reinstall
device drivers only when it is necessary to correct a problem with your computer.
For more information about reinstalling device drivers that came with your computer, see “Reinstalling
preinstalled applications and device drivers” on page 93.

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 92.
• 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 89.
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 ensure that your rescue device is set as the first boot device in the startup device sequence
in the Setup Utility program. See “Selecting a startup device” on page 100 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 97.
It is important to create a rescue medium and a set of recovery media as early as possible and store them
in a safe place for future use.

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Recovery information for the Windows 8 operating system
This section provides information about the recovery solutions provided on computers preinstalled with the
Windows 8 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 the following:
1. Move the cursor 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.
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 the following:
1. Move the cursor 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.
Advanced startup options
Advanced startup options enable you to change the startup settings of your Windows operating system,
start the computer from an external device, or restore the Windows operating system from a system image.
To use the advanced startup options, do the following:
1. Move the cursor 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 more details about the recovery solutions provided on computers preinstalled with the Windows 8
operating system, refer to the help information system of the Windows 8 operating system.

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. Ensure that your computer is turned off.
2. Repeatedly press and release the F1 key when turning on the computer. When you hear multiple
beeps or see a logo screen, release the F1 key.
Note: If a Power-On Password or an Administrator Password has been set, the Setup Utility program
menu will not be displayed until you type the correct password. For more information, see “Using
passwords” on page 97.
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. 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 97. Then, follow
the instructions on the screen.
You can use either the keyboard or the mouse to navigate through BIOS menu choices. The keys used to
perform various tasks are displayed at the bottom of each screen.

Using passwords
By using the Setup Utility program, you can set passwords to prevent unauthorized access to your computer
and data. The following types of passwords are available:
• Power-On Password
© Copyright Lenovo 2012

• Administrator Password
• Hard Disk Password
You do not have to set any passwords to use your computer. However, using passwords improves
computing security. If you decide to set any passwords, read the following sections.

Password considerations
A password can be any combination of up to 64 alphabetic and numeric characters. For security reasons, it
is recommended to use a strong password that cannot be easily compromised. To set a strong password,
use the following guidelines:
• Have at least eight characters in length
• Contain at least one alphabetic character and one numeric character
• Setup Utility program and hard disk 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 97.

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2. From the Setup Utility program main menu, select Security.
3. Depending on the password type, select Set Power-On Password, Set Administrator Password, or
Hard Disk Password.
4. Follow the instructions on the right side of the screen to set, change, or delete a password.
Note: A password can be any combination of up to 64 alphabetic and numeric characters. For more
information, see “Password considerations” on page 98.

Erasing lost or forgotten passwords (clearing CMOS)
This section provides instructions on how to erase lost or forgotten passwords, such as a user password.
To erase a lost or forgotten password, do the following:
1. Remove all media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer. Then, disconnect
all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables that are connected to the computer.
2. Remove the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 34.
3. Locate the Clear CMOS /Recovery jumper on the system board. See “Locating parts on the system
board” on page 12.
4. Move the jumper from the standard position (pin 1 and pin 2) to the maintenance position (pin 2 and
pin 3).
5. Reinstall the computer cover and connect the power cord. See “Completing the parts replacement”
on page 86.
6. Turn on the computer and leave it on for approximately 10 seconds. Then, turn off the computer by
holding the power switch for approximately five seconds.
7. Repeat step 1 through step 3.
8. Move the Clear CMOS /Recovery jumper back to the standard position (pin 1 and pin 2).
9. Reinstall the computer cover and connect the power cord. See “Completing the parts replacement”
on page 86.

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 97.
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 a SATA device.
4. Select the desired settings and press Enter.
5. Press F10 to save changes and exit the Setup Utility program. See “Exiting the Setup Utility program”
on page 102.

Chapter 7. Using the Setup Utility program

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

Selecting a temporary startup device
Use this procedure to select a temporary startup device.
Note: Not all discs and hard disk drives are bootable.
1. Turn off your computer.
2. Repeatedly press and release the F12 key when turning on the computer. When the 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 97.
2. From the Setup Utility program main menu, select Startup.
3. Select the devices for the Primary Startup Sequence, the Automatic Startup Sequence, and the Error
Startup Sequence. Read the information displayed on the right side of the screen.
4. Press F10 to save changes and exit the Setup Utility program. See “Exiting the Setup Utility program”
on page 102.

Enabling ErP compliance mode
You can enable the energy-related products directive (ErP) compliance mode through the Power menu in the
Setup Utility program to reduce the consumption of electricity when your computer is in standby or off mode.
To enable ErP compliance mode in the Setup Utility program, do the following:
1. Start the Setup Utility program. See “Starting the Setup Utility program” on page 97.
2. From the Setup Utility program main menu, select Power ➙ Enhanced Power Saving Mode, and
press Enter.
3. Select Enabled and press Enter.
4. From the Power menu, select Automatic Power On and press Enter.
5. Select Wake on Lan and press Enter.
6. Select Disabled and press Enter.
7. Press F10 to save changes and exit the Setup Utility program. Press Enter when prompted to confirm
the exit.
Note: When ErP compliance mode is enabled, you can wake up your computer by doing one of the following:
• Pressing the power switch
• Enabling the wake up on alarm feature
The wake up on alarm feature enables your computer to wake up at a set time. To enable the wake
up on alarm feature, do the following:
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1. Start the Setup Utility program.
2. From the Setup Utility program main menu, select Power ➙ Automatic Power On, and press Enter.
3. Select Wake Up on Alarm and press Enter. Then follow the instructions on the screen.
4. Press F10 to save changes and exit the Setup Utility program. Press Enter when prompted to
confirm the exit.
• Enabling the after power loss feature
The after power loss feature enables your computer to wake up when the power supply resumes after a
sudden loss of electricity. To enable the after power loss feature, do the following:
1. Start the Setup Utility program.
2. From the Setup Utility program main menu, select Power ➙ After Power Loss, and press Enter.
3. Select Power On and press Enter.
4. Press F10 to save changes and exit the Setup Utility program. Press Enter when prompted to
confirm the exit.

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 97.
2. From the Setup Utility program main menu, select Power.
3. Select Intelligent Cooling Engine (ICE). The Intelligent Cooling Engine (ICE) window is displayed.
4. Select ICE Performance Mode. The ICE Performance Mode window is displayed.
5. Select Better Acoustic Performance or Better Thermal Performance as desired.
6. Press F10 to save changes and exit the Setup Utility program. See “Exiting the Setup Utility program”
on page 102.

ICE thermal alert
You can monitor the thermal function of your computer under critical thermal situations through the ICE
Thermal Alert menu. Two choices are available:
• Enabled (default setting)
• Disabled
After enabling the ICE thermal alert function, when critical thermal situations occur, such as malfunctioning
fans, abnormally high temperature, and poor cooling performances, an alert log will be written into the
Windows system log. The alert log can help you identify the thermal problems.
To configure the ICE thermal alert function, do the following:
1. Start the Setup Utility program. See “Starting the Setup Utility program” on page 97.
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2. From the Setup Utility program main menu, select Power.
3. Select Intelligent Cooling Engine (ICE). The Intelligent Cooling Engine (ICE) window is displayed.
4. Select ICE Thermal Alert. The ICE Thermal Alert window is displayed.
5. Select Enabled or Disabled as desired.
6. Press F10 to save changes and exit the Setup Utility program. See “Exiting the Setup Utility program”
on page 102.

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

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

Using system programs
System programs are the basic layer of software built into your computer. System programs include the
POST, the BIOS, and the Setup Utility program. The POST is a set of tests and procedures that are
performed each time you turn on your computer. The BIOS is a layer of software that translates instructions
from other layers of software into electrical signals that the computer hardware can execute. You can use
the Setup Utility program to view or change the configuration settings of your computer. See Chapter 7
“Using the Setup Utility program” on page 97 for detailed information.
Your computer system board has a module called electrically erasable programmable read-only memory
(EEPROM, also referred to as flash memory). You can easily update the POST, the BIOS, and the Setup
Utility program by starting your computer with a system-program-update disc or running a special update
program from your operating system.
Lenovo might make changes and enhancements to the POST and BIOS. When updates are released, they
are available as downloadable files on the Lenovo Web site at http://www.lenovo.com. Instructions for using
the POST and BIOS updates are available in a TXT file that is included with the update files. For most
models, you can download either an update program to create a system-program-update disc or an update
program that can be run from the operating system.

Updating (flashing) the BIOS from a disc
This section provides instructions on how to update (flash) the BIOS from a disc.
Note: You can download a self-starting bootable disc image (known as an ISO image) with the system
program updates to create a system-program-update disc. Go to:
http://www.lenovo.com/support
To update (flash) the BIOS from a disc, do the following:
1. Turn off your computer.
2. Repeatedly press and release the F12 key when turning on the computer. When the Startup Device
Menu window opens, release the F12 key.
3. From the Startup Device Menu window, select the desired optical drive as the startup device. Then,
insert the disc into this optical drive and press Enter. The update begins.
4. When prompted to change the serial number, it is suggested that you do not make this change by
pressing N. However, if you do want to change the serial number, press Y, then type in the serial number
and press Enter.
5. When prompted to change the machine type and model, it is suggested that you do not make this
change by pressing N. However, if you do want to change the machine type and model, press Y, then
type in the machine type and model and press Enter.
6. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the update. After the update is completed, remove the
disc from the optical drive.

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Updating (flashing) the BIOS from your operating system
Note: Because Lenovo makes constant improvements to its Web sites, the Web page contents are subject
to change without notice, including the contents referenced in the following procedure.
To update (flash) the BIOS from your operating system, do the following:
1. Go to http://www.lenovo.com/support.
2. Click Download Drivers & Software.
3. Click Use Quick Path.
4. Type the 4-digit machine type for your computer in the Quick Path field and then click Find My Product.
5. Click BIOS.
6. Locate the BIOS version that you want to download.
7. Click Click for files. All available files will be displayed.
8. Click the link for the readme file that contains the instructions for updating (flashing) the BIOS from
your operating system.
9. Print these instructions. This is very important because these instructions will not be displayed on
the screen after the download begins.
10. Follow the printed instructions to download, extract, and install the update.

Recovering from a POST/BIOS update failure
If the power to your computer is interrupted while the POST and BIOS is being updated, your computer
might not restart correctly. If this happens, perform the following procedure to recover from the POST and
BIOS update failure. This procedure is commonly called Boot-block Recovery.
1. Remove all media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer. Then, disconnect
all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables that are connected to the computer.
2. Remove the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 34.
3. Locate the Clear CMOS /Recovery jumper on the system board. See “Locating parts on the system
board” on page 12.
4. Remove any cables that impede access to the Clear CMOS /Recovery jumper.
5. Move the jumper from the standard position (pin 1 and pin 2) to the maintenance position (pin 2 and
pin 3).
6. Reconnect any cables that were disconnected and reinstall the PCI card if removed.
7. Reinstall the computer cover and reconnect the power cords for the computer and monitor to electrical
outlets. See “Completing the parts replacement” on page 86.
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. Reinstall 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 105

•

“Updating your operating system” on page 105

•

“Using System Update” on page 106

Getting the latest device drivers for your computer
Note: Because Lenovo makes constant improvements to its Web sites, the Web page contents are subject
to change without notice, including the contents referenced in the following procedure.
You can download and install updated device drivers from the Lenovo Web site by doing the following:
Attention: Do not download updated device drivers from the Windows Update Web site. The device
drivers provided on the Windows Web site have not been tested by Lenovo and using them might cause
unexpected problems. Obtain updated device drivers from Lenovo.
1. Go to http://www.lenovo.com/support.
2. Click Download & Drivers.
3. Select the machine type of your computer from the machine type list.
4. Click the category of device for which you need the device driver.
5. Click the appropriate device driver.
6. Download and install the device driver.

Updating your operating system
Microsoft makes updates available for the various Windows operating systems through the Microsoft
Windows Update Web site. The Web site automatically determines what Windows updates are available for
your specific computer and lists those updates only. Updates could include security fixes, new versions of
Windows components (such as Media Player), fixes to other portions of the Windows operating system,
or enhancements.
Attention: Do not download updated device drivers from the Windows Web site. The device drivers
provided on the Windows Web site have not been tested by Lenovo and using them might cause unexpected
problems. Obtain updated device drivers from Lenovo. See “Getting the latest device drivers for your
computer” on page 105 for more information.
To access the Microsoft Windows Update site, do the following:
1. Go to http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com/.
2. Follow the instructions on the screen.

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Using System Update
The System Update program helps you keep the software on your computer up-to-date. Update packages
are stored on Lenovo servers and can be downloaded from the Lenovo Support Web site. Update packages
can contain applications, device drivers, BIOS flashes, or software updates. When the System Update
program connects to the Lenovo Support Web site, the System Update program automatically recognizes
the machine type and model of your computer, the installed operating system, and the language of the
operating system to determine what updates are available for your computer. The System Update program
then displays a list of update packages and categorizes each update as critical, recommended, and
optional to help you understand the importance. You have complete control of which updates to download
and install. After you select the update packages you want, the System Update program automatically
downloads and installs the updates without any further intervention from you.
The System Update program is preinstalled on most Lenovo computers and is ready to run. The only
prerequisite is an active Internet connection. You can start the program manually, or you can use the
schedule feature to enable the program to search for updates automatically at specified intervals. You also
can predefine scheduled updates to search by severity (critical updates, critical and recommended updates,
or all updates) so the list you choose from contains only those update types that are of interest to you.
To open the System Update program, see “Accessing Lenovo programs on the Windows 7 operating system”
on page 5 or “Accessing Lenovo programs on the Windows 8 operating system” on page 7.
If the System Update program is not currently installed on your computer, you can download it from the
Lenovo Support Web site at http://www.lenovo.com/support.

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

“Basics” on page 106

•

“Cleaning your computer” on page 107

•

–

“Computer” on page 107

–

“Keyboard” on page 107

–

“Optical mouse” on page 107

–

“Display screen” on page 107

“Good maintenance practices” on page 108

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

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

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

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

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

Display screen
Dust buildup compounds problems associated with glare. Remember to clean your monitor screen
periodically. See “Cleaning a flat-panel monitor surface” on page 107 or “Cleaning a glass-screen surface”
on page 108.
Cleaning a flat-panel monitor surface
If you have a flat-panel computer display that has a flexible film surface, do the following to clean the special
surface. Wipe it gently with a soft, dry cloth, or blow on the screen to remove grit and other loose particles.
Then moisten a cloth with LCD cleaner and wipe the screen surface.

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Many computer supply stores carry the special cleaning fluids for displays. Use cleaning fluids developed for
LCD displays only. First apply the fluid to a lint-free, soft cloth, then clean the LCD display. Some computer
supply stores carry pre-moistened towelettes for LCD maintenance.
Cleaning a glass-screen surface
To clean a glass-screen surface, wipe it gently with a soft, dry cloth, or blow on the screen to remove grit and
other loose particles. Then use a soft cloth moistened with a nonabrasive liquid glass cleaner.

Good maintenance practices
By performing a few good maintenance practices, you can maintain good computer performance, protect
your data, and be prepared in case of a computer failure.
• Empty your recycle bin on a regular basis.
• Run the Windows Disk Defragmenter program occasionally to prevent performance problems caused by
an excessive number of fragmented files.
• Clean out your Inbox, Sent Items, and Deleted Items folders in your e-mail application on a regular basis.
• Make backup copies of critical data on removable media memory at regular intervals and store the
removable media in a safe location. The frequency of making backup copies depends on how critical the
data is to you or your business. Lenovo makes a number of removable-media storage devices available
as options, such as CD-RW drives and recordable DVD drives.
• Back up your entire hard disk drive on a regular basis.
• Keep your computer software up-to-date. See “Keeping your computer current ” on page 105 for more
information.
• Keep a log book. Entries might include major software or hardware changes, device-driver updates,
intermittent problems and what you did to resolve them, and any minor issues you might have
experienced. A log book can help you or a Lenovo technician determine if a problem is related to change
in hardware, change in software, or some other action that might have taken place.
• Create Product Recovery discs. See “Creating and using recovery media” on page 89 for more information
about using Product Recovery discs to restore the hard disk drive to the factory default settings.
• Create rescue media. See “Creating and using a rescue medium” on page 92 for more information about
using a Rescue medium such as a CD or DVD to recover from failures that prevent you from gaining
access to the Windows environment or the Rescue and Recovery workspace on your hard disk drive.

Moving your computer
Take the following precautions before moving your computer.
1. Back up all files and data from the hard disk drive. There are a variety of backup programs available
commercially. Your operating system also might have a backup program that you can use. Lenovo
provides the Rescue and Recovery program to help you back up and restore data. See “Performing
backup and recovery operations” on page 90 for more information.
2. Remove all media (diskettes, compact discs, tapes, and so on) from the drives.
3. Turn off the computer and all attached devices. Your hard disk drive automatically parks the read/write
head in a nondata area. This prevents damage to the hard disk drive.
4. Unplug the power cords from electrical outlets.
5. Disconnect communication cables, such as modem or network cables, from the outlets first, and then
disconnect the other ends from the computer.
6. Note where any remaining cables are attached to the computer; then, remove them.
7. If you saved the original shipping cartons and packing materials, use them to pack the units. If you are
using different cartons, cushion the units to avoid damage.

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Chapter 10. Troubleshooting and diagnostics
This chapter provides information about diagnosing and troubleshooting computer problems. If your
computer problem is not described here, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and service” on page
127 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,
ensure that it is switched on.
• The power indicator on the front of the computer is on.
• The computer voltage matches the voltage available at the electrical outlet for
your country or region.

The monitor screen is blank.

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 107 for further
information.

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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 100.

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 97.
4. Go to the “Troubleshooting” on page 110 and follow the instructions for the type of problem you are
experiencing. If the Troubleshooting information does not help you resolve a problem, continue with the
next step.
5. Try using a previously captured configuration to see if a recent change to hardware or software settings
has caused a problem. Before restoring a previous configuration, capture your current configuration in
case the older configuration settings do not solve the problem or have adverse affects. To restore a
captured configuration, do the following:
• For Windows 7: Click Start ➙ Control Panel ➙ System and Security ➙ System ➙ System
Protection ➙ System Restore.
• For Windows 8: Open Control Panel, and then click System and Security ➙ System ➙ System
Protection ➙ System Restore.
If this does not correct the problem, continue with the next step.
6. Run the diagnostic program. See “Lenovo Solution Center” on page 126 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 127 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 127 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 127 for more information.

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

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1. Remove the new hardware option or software. If you must remove the computer cover to remove a
hardware option, ensure that you review and follow the electrical safety information provided with your
computer. For your safety, do not operate the computer with the cover removed.
2. Run the diagnostic program to ensure that 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 111

•

“CD problems” on page 112

•

“DVD problems” on page 113

•

“Intermittent problems” on page 115

•

“Keyboard, mouse, or pointing device problems” on page 115

•

“Monitor problems” on page 117

•

“Networking problems” on page 118

•

“Option problems” on page 121

•

“Performance and lockup problems” on page 122

•

“Printer problems” on page 123

•

“Serial port problems” on page 124

•

“Software problems” on page 124

•

“USB problems” on page 125

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

“No audio in Windows” on page 111
“An audio disc or AutoPlay-enabled disc does not automatically play when it is inserted into a drive”
on page 112

•

“Sound comes from one external speaker only” on page 112

•

“No audio in DOS applications or games” on page 112

No audio in Windows
Symptom: No audio in Windows
Actions:
• If you are using powered external speakers that have an On/Off control, verify that the On/Off control is
set to the On position and the speaker power cable is connected to a properly grounded, functional ac
electrical outlet.
• If your external speakers have a volume control, verify that the volume control is not set too low.
• Double-click the speaker icon in the Windows notification area. A master volume-control window opens.
Verify that the Mute settings are not checked and none of the volume settings is set too low.
• Some models have a front audio panel you can use to adjust volume. If you have a front audio panel,
verify that the volume is not set too low.
• Verify that your external speakers (and headphones, if used) are connected to the correct audio connector
on the computer. Most speaker cables are color-coded to match the connector.

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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.
• Ensure that the program you are running is designed for use in the Microsoft Windows operating system.
If the program is designed to run in DOS, the program does not use the Windows sound feature 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 127.

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 112.

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.
• Ensure that 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 127.

No audio in DOS applications or games
Symptom: No audio in DOS applications or games
Actions:
• Ensure that 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 127.

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 113
“A CD or DVD does not work” on page 113
“Unable to use a startable (bootable) recovery medium, such as the Product Recovery CD, to start
your computer” on page 113

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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 113.
If this does not correct the problem, follow the action for “A CD or DVD does not work” on page 113.

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.
• Ensure that the disc you are using is clean. To remove dust or fingerprints, wipe the disc clean with a soft
cloth from the center to the outside. Wiping a disc in a circular motion might cause loss of data.
• 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. Ensure 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: Ensure 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 100 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 127.

DVD problems
Select your symptom from the following list:
•

“Black screen instead of DVD video” on page 113

•

“DVD movie will not play” on page 114

•

“No audio or intermittent audio while playing DVD movie” on page 114

•

“Playback is very slow or choppy” on page 114

•

“Invalid disc or no disc found message” on page 114

Black screen instead of DVD video
Symptom: Black screen instead of DVD video

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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 127.

DVD movie will not play
Symptom: DVD movie will not play.
Actions:
• Ensure that the disc surface is clean and not scratched.
• Check the disc or package for regional coding. You might need to purchase a disc with coding for
the region where you are using your computer.
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 127.

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.
• Ensure that the disc surface is clean and not scratched.
• Check all cable connections to and from the speakers.
• Use the DVD menu for the video to select a different audio track.
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 127.

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 127.

Invalid disc or no disc found message
Symptom: Invalid disc or no disc found message
Actions:
• Ensure that a DVD disc is in the drive with the shiny side of the disc facing down.
• Ensure that video resolution is set to less than 1152 x 864.

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• On computers that have a CD-ROM or CD-RW drive in addition to a DVD-ROM drive, ensure 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 127.

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 127.

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 115

•

“The mouse or pointing device does not work” on page 116

•

“The pointer on the screen does not move smoothly with the mouse” on page 116

•

“The fingerprint reader does not work” on page 116

•

“The wireless keyboard does not work” on page 116

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 operating system, do the following:
1. Open Control Panel.
2. Click Hardware and Sound.
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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 127 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 99.
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 127.

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 107 for
instructions.

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

The wireless keyboard does not work
Symptom: The wireless keyboard does not work.
Action: If the Transceiver Communications LED is on and the wireless Keyboard does not work, restart your
computer. If restarting your computer does not solve the problem, verify that the following conditions are met:
• The batteries are properly installed.
• The batteries still retain their current.
• The wireless Keyboard is located less than ten meters away from the transceiver.
• The transceiver is fully installed.

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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 117

•

“The monitor works when you turn on the computer, but goes blank after some period of computer
inactivity” on page 117

•

“The monitor works when you turn on the computer, but goes blank when you start some application
programs” on page 117

•

“The image appears to be flickering” on page 117

•

“The image is discolored” on page 118

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 127.

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 127.

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:
• Ensure that the monitor signal cable is securely connected to the monitor and the monitor connector on
the computer. A loose cable can cause intermittent problems.
• Verify that the necessary device drivers for the application programs are installed. Refer to the
documentation for the affected application program to see if device drivers are required.
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the Lenovo Solution Center program. If you need technical
assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and service” on page 127.

The image appears to be flickering
Symptom: The image appears to be flickering.

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Actions:
• The monitor might be operating in a low-refresh rate display mode. Set the monitor to the highest,
noninterlaced refresh rate supported by your monitor and the video controller in your computer.
Attention: Using a resolution or refresh rate that is not supported by your monitor might damage it. Check
the documentation that comes with your monitor to verify the supported refresh rates.
• The monitor might be affected by interference from nearby equipment. Magnetic fields around other
devices, such as transformers, appliances, fluorescent lights, and other monitors might be causing the
problem. Move fluorescent desk lighting or any equipment that produces magnetic fields farther away
from the monitor. If this does not correct the problem, do the following:
1. Turn off the monitor. (Moving a color monitor while it is turned on might cause screen discoloration.)
2. Adjust the placement of the monitor and other devices so that they are at least 305 mm (12 inches)
apart.
3. Turn on the monitor.
• You can reset the refresh rate through your operating system Control Panel:
On the Windows 7 operating system, click Start ➙ Control Panel ➙ Hardware and Sound ➙ Adjust
screen resolution ➙ Advanced Settings. Then click the Monitor tab and select a new refresh rate.
On the Windows 8 operating system, open Control Panel and click Hardware and Sound ➙ Adjust
screen resolution ➙ Advanced Settings. Then click the Monitor tab and select a new refresh rate.
• See your operating system documentation or help for further information on monitor settings.
If these actions do not correct the problem, your monitor might need service. See Chapter 11 “Getting
information, help, and service” on page 127 for details.

The image is discolored
Symptom: The image is discolored.
Action: The monitor might be affected by interference from nearby equipment. Magnetic fields around other
devices, such as transformers, appliances, fluorescent lights, and other monitors might be causing the
problem. Move fluorescent desk lighting or any equipment that produces magnetic fields further away from
the monitor. If this does not correct the problem, do the following:
1. Turn off the monitor. (Moving a color monitor while it is turned on might cause screen discoloration.)
2. Adjust the placement of the monitor and other devices so that they are at least 305 mm (12 inches) apart.
3. Turn on the monitor.
If these actions do not correct the problem, your monitor might need service. See Chapter 11 “Getting
information, help, and service” on page 127 for details.

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

“Ethernet problems” on page 119

•

“A wireless LAN problem” on page 120

•

“A wireless WAN problem” on page 120

•

“Bluetooth problems” on page 121

For more information, see “Help and Support” on page 127.

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

“Your computer cannot connect to the network” on page 119

•

“The adapter stops working for no apparent reason” on page 119

•

“If your computer is a Gigabit Ethernet model and you use a speed of 1000 Mbps, the connection fails
or errors occur” on page 120

•

“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 120

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 operating system, do the following:
1. Open 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.
• 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 ensure 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:
• Ensure 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 ensure 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.
• Ensure that the link partner is set to auto-negotiate.
• Ensure 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 problems
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.
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 121

•

“An option that previously worked does not work now” on page 121

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 127.

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.
– The last option in each SCSI chain, or the end of the SCSI cable, is terminated correctly.

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– 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 127.

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 122

•

“Excessive number of fragmented files” on page 123

•

“Insufficient memory” on page 123

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

Insufficient free hard disk drive space
Symptom: Insufficient free hard disk drive space
The Windows operating system will slow down and might produce errors if the hard disk drive gets too full.
To check the amount of free space on the Windows 7 operating system, do the following:
1. Click Start ➙ Computer.
2. Right-click your C drive entry and then click Properties. The amount of free disk space is displayed.
To check the amount of free space on the Windows 8 operating system, do the following:
1. Open the Windows Explorer and click Computer.
2. Right-click your C drive entry and then click Properties. The amount of free disk space is displayed.
To free up disk space, do any of the following:
• Procedure 1
1. On the Windows 7 operating system, click Start ➙ Computer. On the Windows 8 operating system,
open the Windows Explorer and click Computer.
2. Right-click your C drive entry and then click Properties.
3. Click Disk Cleanup.
4. A list of unnecessary file categories is displayed. Select each file category you want to delete,
and then click OK.
• Procedure 2
1. Open Control Panel.
2. Click Programs.
3. Click Turn Windows features on or off.
4. A list of optional Windows components is displayed. Follow the instructions on the screen.
• Procedure 3
1. On the Windows 7 operating system, click Start ➙ Computer. On the Windows 8 operating system,
open the Windows Explorer and click Computer.
2. Right-click your C drive entry and then click Properties.
3. Click Disk Cleanup.
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4. Click Clean up system files.
5. Click the More Options tab.
6. In the Programs and Features area, click the Clean up button.
7. A list of installed programs is displayed. Select the program that you want to remove. Click
Uninstall/Change.
• Clean out your Inbox, Sent Items, and Deleted Items folders from your e-mail application. The folder
names and procedures vary depending on your e-mail application. If you need assistance, see the
help system for your e-mail application.

Excessive number of fragmented files
Symptom: Excessive number of fragmented files
Action: Run the Windows Disk Defragmenter program.
Note: Depending on the size of the hard disk drive and amount of data currently stored on the hard disk
drive, the disk-defragmentation process might take up to several hours to complete.
On the Windows 7 operating system, do the following:
1. Close any programs that are currently running and close any open windows.
2. Click Start ➙ Computer.
3. Right-click your C drive entry and then click Properties.
4. Click the Tools tab.
5. Click Defragment Now, then click Continue.
6. Click Defragment Now again to start a disk-defragmentation process.
On the Windows 8 operating system, do the following:
1. Close any programs that are currently running and close any open windows.
2. Open the Windows Explorer and click Computer.
3. Right-click your C drive entry and then click Properties.
4. Click the Tools tab.
5. Click Optimize.
6. Click Optimize again to start a disk-defragmentation process.

Insufficient memory
Symptom: Insufficient memory
In general, the more memory that is installed, the better the Windows operating system runs.
Action: Install additional memory. For information about purchasing memory, see Chapter 11 “Getting
information, help, and service” on page 127. For step-by-step instructions on installing memory, see
“Installing or replacing a memory module” on page 38.
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 127.

Printer problems
Symptom: The printer does not work.

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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 97.
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 127.

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:
• Ensure 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, ensure that it is attached to a properly grounded electrical outlet.
• If the serial device has its own On/Off switch, ensure that it is in the On position.
• If the serial device has an Online switch, ensure that it is in the Online position.
• If the serial device is a printer, ensure that 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.
• Ensure 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 127.

Software problems
Select your symptom from the following list:
•

“When using a sort feature, dates do not sort in the correct order” on page 124

•

“Software does not work as expected” on page 124

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.
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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 are having difficulty with the Windows operating system or one of its components, refer to the
Windows help system. It is accessible from the Windows Start menu.
• To determine if problems are caused by newly installed software, verify that:
– Your computer has the minimum memory requirements needed to use the software. See the
information supplied with the software to verify memory requirements. (If you just installed an adapter
or memory, you might have a memory-address conflict.)
– The software is designed to operate on your computer.
– Other software works on your computer.
– The software you are using works correctly on another computer.
• If you received any error messages while using the software program, see the printed documentation
supplied with the software or the help system for that software for a description of the messages and
solutions to the problem.
• Check with your software manufacturer to see if any updates are available. Many software manufacturers
make updates available from the World Wide Web.
• If the software program used to work correctly, but does not work correctly now, do the following:
– On the Windows 7 operating system, click Start ➙ Control Panel ➙ System and Security ➙ System
➙ System Protection ➙ System Restore. Then, follow the instructions on the screen.
– On the Windows 8 operating system, open Control Panel and click System and Security ➙ System ➙
System Protection ➙ System Restore. Then, 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 127 for details.

USB problems
Symptom: The USB connectors cannot be accessed.
Actions:
• Ensure that the USB cable is securely connected to the USB connector and to the USB device. If the USB
device has its own power cord, ensure that it is attached to a properly grounded electrical outlet.
• If the USB device has its own On/Off switch, ensure that it is in the On position.
• If the USB device has an Online switch, ensure that it is in the Online position.
• If the USB device is a printer, ensure that paper is loaded correctly.
• Ensure that 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 to test the USB
connector. 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 127.

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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 other Windows operating system rather than Windows 7 and Windows 8, 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.

Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools
The Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools program guides you to a host of information sources and provides easy
access to various tools to help you work more easily and securely.
Note: The Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools program is only available on computers preinstalled with the Windows
7 operating system from Lenovo.
To access the Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools program, click Start ➙ All Programs ➙ Lenovo ThinkVantage
Tools.

Lenovo Welcome
The Lenovo Welcome program introduces you to some innovative built-in features of Lenovo and guides you
through a few important setup tasks to help you make the most of your computer.

Help and Support
The Windows Help and Support information system guides you to various help and support information from
Lenovo and Microsoft, such as updating drivers, accessing programs, and accessing user manuals.
To access the Windows Help and Support information system, do one of the following:
• On the Windows 7 operating system, click Start ➙ Help and Support.
• On the Windows 8 operating system, move the cursor to the top-right or bottom-right corner of the screen
to display the charms. Then click Settings ➙ Help.

Safety and Warranty
The Safety, Warranty, and Setup Guide that is provided with your computer contains information on safety,
setup, warranty, and notices. 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.

127

• 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.

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 109. For information on additional resources to help you troubleshoot your computer problem, see
“Information resources” on page 127.
If you suspect a software problem, see the documentation that comes with the operating system or software
program, including readme files and online help.
Most computers come with a diagnostic program that help you identify hardware problems.
You can also get the latest technical information and download device drivers and updates from Lenovo
Support Web site at:
http://www.lenovo.com/support

Calling for service
During the warranty period, you can get help and information by telephone through the Customer Support
Center.
The following services are available during the warranty period:
• Problem determination - Trained service personnel are available to assist you with determining a
hardware problem and deciding what action is necessary to fix the problem.
• Hardware repair - If the problem is caused by hardware under warranty, trained service personnel are
available to provide the applicable level of service.

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

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

Purchasing additional services
During and after the warranty period, you can purchase additional services, such as support for hardware,
operating systems, and application programs; network setup and configuration services; upgraded or
extended hardware repair services; and custom installation services. Service availability and service name
Chapter 11. Getting information, help, and service

129

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

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

131

Trademarks
The following terms are trademarks of Lenovo in the United States, other countries, or both:
Lenovo
The Lenovo logo
Rescue and Recovery
ThinkCentre
ThinkVantage
Microsoft, Windows, and Windows Vista are trademarks of the Microsoft group of companies.
Intel, Intel Core, Celeron, and Pentium are trademarks of Intel Corporation in the U.S. and/or other countries.
Other company, product, or service names may be trademarks or service marks of others.

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

Electronic emissions notices
The following information refers to Lenovo personal computer machine types 2697, 2698, 2742, 2750,
2935, 2943, 2960, 2967, 2986, 2992, 2994, 2999, 3182, 3184, 3186, 3190, 3201, 3204, 3208, 3212, 3217,
3220, 3226, 3228, 3302, 3391, and 3392.

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

Industry Canada Class B emission compliance statement
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.

133

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

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

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Japanese VCCI Class B statement

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

Lenovo product service information for Taiwan

Keyboard and mouse compliance statement for Taiwan

Additional regulatory information
For additional regulatory information, refer to the 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.

Appendix B. Regulatory information

135

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Appendix C. WEEE and recycling information
Important WEEE information

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

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

137

Collecting and recycling a disused Lenovo computer or monitor
If you are a company employee and need to dispose of a Lenovo computer or monitor that is the property
of the company, you must do so in accordance with the Law for Promotion of Effective Utilization of
Resources. Computers and monitors are categorized as industrial waste and should be properly disposed
of by an industrial waste disposal contractor certified by a local government. In accordance with the Law
for Promotion of Effective Utilization of Resources, Lenovo Japan provides, through its PC Collecting
and Recycling Services, for the collecting, reuse, and recycling of disused computers and monitors. For
details, visit the Lenovo Web site at http://www.lenovo.com/recycling/japan. Pursuant to the Law for
Promotion of Effective Utilization of Resources, the collecting and recycling of home-used computers
and monitors by the manufacturer was begun on October 1, 2003. This service is provided free of
charge for home-used computers sold after October 1, 2003. For details, visit the Lenovo Web site at
http://www.lenovo.com/recycling/japan.
Disposing of Lenovo computer components
Some Lenovo computer products sold in Japan may have components that contain heavy metals or other
environmental sensitive substances. To properly dispose of disused components, such as a printed circuit
board or drive, use the methods described above for collecting and recycling a disused computer or monitor.
Disposing of disused lithium batteries from Lenovo computers
A button-shaped lithium battery is installed on the system board of your Lenovo computer to provide power
to the computer clock while the computer is off or disconnected from the main power source. If you want to
replace it with a new one, contact your place of purchase or ask for a repair service provided by Lenovo. If
you have replaced it by yourself and want to dispose of the disused lithium battery, insulate it with vinyl tape,
contact your place of purchase, and follow their instructions. If you use a Lenovo computer at home and
need to dispose of a lithium battery, you must comply with local ordinances and regulations.

Recycling information for Brazil
Declarações de Reciclagem no Brasil
Descarte de um Produto Lenovo Fora de Uso
Equipamentos elétricos e eletrônicos não devem ser descartados em lixo comum, mas enviados à pontos de
coleta, autorizados pelo fabricante do produto para que sejam encaminhados e processados por empresas
especializadas no manuseio de resíduos industriais, devidamente certificadas pelos orgãos ambientais, de
acordo com a legislação local.
A Lenovo possui um canal específico para auxiliá-lo no descarte desses produtos. Caso você possua
um produto Lenovo em situação de descarte, ligue para o nosso SAC ou encaminhe um e-mail para:
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. For proper collection and treatment, go to:
http://www.lenovo.com/recycling

Appendix C. WEEE and recycling information

139

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Appendix D. Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive
(RoHS)
China RoHS

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

Ukraine RoHS

141

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

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Appendix E. ENERGY STAR model information

ENERGY STAR® is a joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department
of Energy aimed at saving money and protecting the environment through energy efficient products and
practices.
Lenovo is proud to offer our customers products with an ENERGY STAR compliant designation. Some
models of the following machine types have been designed and tested to conform to the ENERGY STAR
program requirement for computers at the time of manufacture: 2697, 2698, 2742, 2750, 2935, 2943, 2960,
2967, 2986, 2992, 2994, 2999, 3182, 3184, 3186, 3190, 3201, 3204, 3208, 3212, 3217, 3220, 3226, and 3228.
For more information about ENERGY STAR ratings for Lenovo computers, go to http://www.lenovo.com.
By using ENERGY STAR compliant products and taking advantage of the power-management features of
your computer, you reduce the consumption of electricity. Reduced electrical consumption contributes to
potential financial savings, a cleaner environment, and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
For more information about ENERGY STAR, go to:
http://www.energystar.gov
Lenovo encourages you to make efficient use of energy an integral part of your day-to-day operations. To
help in this endeavor, set the following power-management features to take effect when your computer has
been inactive for a specified duration:
Table 3. ENERGY STAR power-management features
Windows 7 or Windows 8 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 or Standby mode, press any key on your keyboard. For more
information about these settings, refer to your Windows Help and Support information system.

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Index
A
a rescue medium, creating and using
Administrator, password 98
audio line-in connector 11
audio line-out connector 11
audio subsystem 1

B
backup and recovery operations
basic troubleshooting 109
battery, replacing 46
boot-block recovery 104

C
cable lock, security 29–30
card reader, installing 42
card reader, replacing 45
changing
password 98
startup device sequence 100
cleaning an optical mouse 107
CMOS, clearing 99
components, internal 12
computer cover
removing 34
computer cover, reinstalling 86
connector 11
connectors
rear 10
connectors, controls, indicators
front 9
considerations, passwords 98
cover presence switch, replacing 73
creating
and using a rescue medium 92
creating and using
recovery media 89
CRU
completing the installation 86
customer support center 128

D
deleting a password 98
Description 11
device drivers 87
devices, handling static-sensitive 33
diagnostics program, using 128
diagnostics, troubleshooting 109
DisplayPort connector 11
documentation, using 128
drivers, device 87

drives
bays 15
specifications

E
environment, operating 5
Ethernet 2
Ethernet connector 11
exiting, Setup Utility 102
expansion 3
external options, installing 33

F
failure, recovering from POST/BIOS 104
features 1
flashing the BIOS 103
front
connectors, controls, indicators 9
front audio and USB assembly, replacing 68
front bezel
front bezel, removing 35
front bezel, reinstalling 35
front fan assembly, replacing 65
front WiFi antenna, installing, removing 83

G
getting
help 127
information 127
service 127

H
hard disk drive, replacing 61
heat sink and fan assembly, replacing
help
and service 128
getting 127
Help and Support 127

I
important safety information v
information
getting 127
important safety v
resources 127
safety 127
warranty 127
Input/Output (I/O) features 3

145

installing
mSATA solid-state drive
solid-state drive 54
installing options
memory module 38
PCI card 35
internal drives 1
internal speaker, replacing

slots 35
physical specifications 5
power
features 3
power supply assembly, replacing 47
power-on self-test (POST) 103
Power-On, Password 98
programs, updating system 103
purchasing additional services 129

K
keyboard connector
keyboard, replacing

11
85

L
Lenovo Solution Center 126
Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools 127
Lenovo Welcome 127
locating components 12

M
media, creating and using recovery media
memory module
installing, replacing 38
system board 38
Microphone connector 11
microprocessor
replacing 51
mouse connector 11
mouse, replacing 85
mSATA solid-state drive, installing 55
mSATA solid-state drive, replacing 57

N
notices

131

O
operations, backup and recovery
optical drive, replacing 40
optical mouse
cleaning 107

P
parts replacement, completing 86
password
Administrator 98
considerations 98
Power-On Password 98
setting, changing, deleting 98
passwords
erasing 99
lost or forgotten 99
passwords, using 97
PCI card 35
installing, replacing 35

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rear connectors 10
rear fan assembly, replacing 66
rear WiFi antenna, installing, removing 82
recovering
from a POST/BIOS update failure 104
software 89
recovery
boot-block 104
operations, backup and 90
problems, solving 94
recovery media, creating and using 89
removing computer cover 34
replacing
battery 46
card reader 45
hard disk drive 61
heat sink and fan assembly 49
microprocessor 51
mSATA solid-state drive 57
Rescue and Recovery 89
workspace, Rescue and Recovery 91
Rescue and Recovery workspace 91
resources, information 127

safety v
safety information 127
security
cable lock 29–30
enabling or disabling 99
features 3
selecting
startup device 100
temporary startup device 100
serial port 11
service
and help 128
customer support center 128
getting 127
services
other 129
purchasing additional 129
setting
password 98
settings
changing 97
viewing 97

Setup Utility 97
Setup Utility program, starting 97
Setup Utility, exiting 102
software
recovering 89
solid-state drive, installing 54
solving recovery problems 94
starting the Setup Utility program 97
startup device 100
sequence, changing 100
temporary, selecting 100
static-sensitive devices, handling 33
system
management 2
programs 103
system board
connectors 13–14
locating parts 13
locations 13–14
memory module 38

T
temporary startup device 100
the BIOS, updating (flashing) 103–104
thermal sensor, replacing 71
trademarks 132
troubleshooting, basic 109
troubleshooting, diagnostics 109

U
updating
(flashing) the BIOS 103
system programs 103
updating (flashing) the BIOS 104
USB 2.0 connector 11
USB 3.0 connector 11
using
a rescue medium, creating and 92
diagnostic program 128
documentation 128
other services 129
passwords 97
Setup Utility 97

V
VGA monitor connector 11
video subsystem 1
viewing and changing settings

W
warranty information 127
WiFi units, WiFi adapter card, WiFi card module, WiFi
antenna cable, replacing 75
workspace, backup and recovery 91

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