Lenovo Personal Computer 1654 User Manual
ThinkCentre  
User Guide  
Machine Types: 1654, 1664, 1665, 1677, 1738, 1739, 1741, 1761,  
1762, 1763, 1782, 1837, 1938, 1942, 1962, and 1966.  
 
Contents  
Important safety information . . . . . iii  
Switching to RGB adjustment .  
Making brightness adjustment.  
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Service and upgrades .  
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Static electricity prevention.  
Chapter 3. You and your computer . . 21  
Power cords and power adapters .  
Extension cords and related devices .  
Accessibility and comfort  
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Arranging your workspace .  
Plugs and outlets.  
External devices .  
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Comfort  
Glare and lighting.  
Air circulation  
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Heat and product ventilation .  
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Operating environment  
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Electrical outlets and cable lengths .  
Register your computer with Lenovo .  
Moving your computer to another country or  
Modem safety information .  
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Laser compliance statement .  
Power supply statement .  
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region .  
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Cleaning and maintenance .  
Voltage-selection switch .  
Replacement power cords .  
Chapter 1. Product overview . . . . . . 1  
Features .  
Specifications .  
Software overview .  
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Chapter 4. Security . . . . . . . . . . 25  
Security features .  
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Attaching an integrated cable lock .  
Software provided by Lenovo .  
Using passwords.  
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Adobe Reader .  
Antivirus software.  
Locations. .  
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BIOS passwords .  
Windows passwords  
Setting the fingerprint reader .  
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Locating connectors, controls, and indicators  
Using and understanding firewalls .  
Protecting data against viruses .  
on the front of your computer .  
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Locating connectors on the rear of your  
computer .  
Adjusting the computer stand .  
Machine type and model label.  
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Chapter 5. Installing or replacing  
hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29  
Installing or replacing hardware .  
Installing external options  
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Chapter 2. Using your computer . . . 13  
Installing a computer wall mount .  
Replacing the USB keyboard or mouse .  
Replacing the wireless keyboard .  
Frequently asked questions  
Using the keyboard . .  
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Using Windows shortcut keys .  
Using the blue ThinkVantage button  
Using a fingerprint reader  
Replacing the wireless mouse .  
Obtaining device drivers .  
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Using the wheel mouse .  
Adjusting audio .  
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Chapter 6. Recovery information . . . 33  
Creating and using recovery media  
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About your computer audio .  
Setting the volume from the desktop .  
Setting the volume from Control Panel  
Creating recovery media .  
Using recovery media .  
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Performing backup and recovery operations .  
Using CDs and DVDs .  
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Performing a backup operation  
Performing a recovery operation .  
Using the Rescue and Recovery workspace .  
Creating and using a rescue medium .  
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Handling and storing CD and DVD media  
Playing a CD or DVD  
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Recording a CD or DVD .  
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Using the single-touch and multi-touch feature .  
Color temperature adjustment .  
Creating a rescue medium .  
Using a rescue medium  
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Selecting a pre-defined color temperature .  
© Copyright Lenovo 2011  
i
 
Reinstalling preinstalled applications and device  
Intermittent problems .  
Keyboard, mouse, or pointing device  
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drivers .  
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Reinstalling software programs .  
problems .  
Monitor problems.  
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Reinstalling device drivers .  
Solving recovery problems .  
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Networking problems .  
Option problems .  
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Chapter 7. Using the Setup Utility  
program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41  
Performance and lockup problems .  
Printer problems .  
Serial port problems.  
Software problems .  
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Starting the Setup Utility program .  
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Viewing and changing settings  
Using passwords.  
Password considerations.  
Power-On Password  
Administrator Password .  
Hard Disk Password.  
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USB problems .  
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Diagnostic programs .  
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Lenovo ThinkVantage Toolbox .  
PC-Doctor for DOS . .  
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Setting, changing, and deleting a password  
Chapter 11. Getting information, help,  
and service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69  
Enabling or disabling a device  
Selecting a startup device .  
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Information resources .  
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Selecting a temporary startup device .  
Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools .  
Selecting or changing the startup device  
Lenovo Welcome .  
Help and Support.  
Safety and Warranty.  
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sequence .  
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Exiting from the Setup Utility program  
Lenovo Web site (http://www.lenovo.com) .  
Chapter 8. Updating system  
programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45  
Lenovo Support Web site.  
Help and service . .  
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Using system programs .  
Updating (flashing) the BIOS from a disc  
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Using the documentation and diagnostic  
programs .  
Calling for service.  
Using other services  
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Updating (flashing) the BIOS from your operating  
system.  
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Purchasing additional services  
Chapter 9. Preventing problems . . . 47  
Keeping your computer current .  
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47  
Appendix A. Notices. . . . . . . . . . 73  
Getting the latest device drivers for your  
Trademarks .  
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Updating your operating system .  
Appendix B. Regulatory  
information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75  
Using System Update .  
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Cleaning and maintenance .  
Export classification notice .  
Television output notice .  
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Basics .  
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Cleaning your computer .  
Electronic emissions notices .  
Good maintenance practices .  
Moving your computer .  
Federal Communications Commission  
Declaration of Conformity  
Additional regulatory information  
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Chapter 10. Troubleshooting and  
diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51  
Appendix C. WEEE and recycling  
Basic troubleshooting .  
Troubleshooting procedure .  
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information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79  
Important information for the European Directive  
Troubleshooting .  
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2002/96/EC .  
Recycling information .  
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Audio problems  
CD problems  
DVD problems .  
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Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81  
ii 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 ThinkCentre Safety  
and Warranty Guide that you received with this product. Reading and understanding this safety  
information reduces the risk of personal injury and damage to your product.  
If you no longer have a copy of the ThinkCentre Safety and Warranty Guide, you can obtain a Portable  
Document Format (PDF) version from the Lenovo® Support Web site at http://www.lenovo.com/support. The  
Lenovo Support Web site also provides the ThinkCentre Safety and Warranty Guide and this ThinkCentre  
User Guide in additional languages.  
Service and upgrades  
Do not attempt to service a product yourself unless instructed to do so by the Customer Support Center or  
your documentation. Only use a Service Provider who is approved to repair your particular product.  
Note: Some computer parts can be upgraded or replaced by the customer. Upgrades typically are  
referred to as options. Replacement parts approved for customer installation are referred to as Customer  
Replaceable Units, or CRUs. Lenovo provides documentation with instructions when it is appropriate for  
customers to install options or replace CRUs. You must closely follow all instructions when installing or  
replacing parts. The Off state of a power indicator does not necessarily mean that voltage levels inside a  
product are zero. Before you remove the covers from a product equipped with a power cord, always make  
sure that the power is turned off and that the product is unplugged from any power source. For more  
information on CRUs, refer to Chapter 5 “Installing or replacing hardware” on page 29. 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 2011  
iii  
 
       
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.  
iv 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.  
© Copyright Lenovo 2011  
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For your safety and to maintain optimum computer performance, always follow these basic precautions  
with your desktop computer:  
• Keep the cover closed whenever the computer is plugged in.  
• Regularly inspect the outside of the computer for dust accumulation.  
• Remove dust from vents and any perforations in the bezel. More frequent cleanings might be required for  
computers in dusty or high-traffic areas.  
• Do not restrict or block any ventilation openings.  
• Do not store or operate your computer inside furniture, as this might increase the risk of overheating.  
• Airflow temperatures into the computer should not exceed 35°C (95°F).  
• Do not install air filtration devices. They may interfere with proper cooling.  
Operating environment  
The optimal environment in which to use your computer is 10°C-35°C (50°F-95°F) with humidity ranging  
between 20% 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.  
vi 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.  
Hazardous voltage, current, and energy levels are present inside any component that has this label attached.  
There are no serviceable parts inside these components. If you suspect a problem with one of these parts,  
contact a service technician.  
Cleaning and maintenance  
Keep your computer and workspace clean. Shut down the computer and then disconnect the power  
cord before cleaning the computer. Do not spray any liquid detergent directly on the computer or use  
any detergent containing flammable material to clean the computer. Spray the detergent on a soft cloth  
and then wipe the computer surfaces.  
© Copyright Lenovo 2011  
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Chapter 1. Product overview  
This chapter provides information about the computer features, specifications, software programs provided  
by Lenovo, and locations of connectors, components, parts on the system board, and internal drives.  
Features  
This section introduces the computer features. The information covers a variety of models.  
To view the information about your specific model, do one of the following:  
• Go into the Lenovo BIOS Setup Utility program by following the instructions in Chapter 7 “Using the  
Setup Utility program” on page 41. Then, select Main ➙ System Summary to view the information.  
• In Windows environment, click Start, right-click Computer, and select Properties to view the information.  
Microprocessor  
Your computer comes with one of the following microprocessors (internal cache size varies by model type):  
• Intel® Core™ i3 microprocessor  
• Intel Core i5 microprocessor  
• Intel Core i7 microprocessor  
• Intel Celeron® microprocessor  
• Intel Pentium® microprocessor  
Memory  
Your computer supports up to two double data rate 3 small outline dual inline memory modules (DDR3  
SODIMMs).  
Note: The maximum system memory capacity is 8 GB.  
Internal drives  
• Card reader  
• One slim Serial Advanced Technology Attachment (SATA) optical drive  
• One hard disk drive (Standard SATA hard disk drive); one solid state drive (SSD) (available in some models)  
Video subsystem  
• One DisplayPort out connector  
Audio subsystem  
• Integrated high-definition (HD) audio  
• Microphone connector and headphone connector on the front panel  
• Internal speaker  
Connectivity  
• 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet controller  
© Copyright Lenovo 2011  
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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.  
• Preboot Execution Environment (PXE)  
The Preboot Execution Environment is an environment to start computers using a network interface  
independent of data storage devices (such as the hard disk drive) or installed operating systems.  
• System Management (SM) Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) and SM software  
The SM BIOS specification defines data structures and access methods in a BIOS that allows a user or  
application to store and retrieve information specific about the computer in question.  
• Wake on LAN  
Wake on LAN is an Ethernet computer networking standard that allows a computer to be turned on  
or woken up by a network message. The message is usually sent by a program running on another  
computer on the same local area network.  
• Wake on Ring  
Wake on Ring, sometimes referred to as Wake on Modem, is a specification that allows supported  
computers and devices to resume from sleep or hibernation mode.  
• Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI)  
Windows Management Instrumentation is a set of extensions to the Windows Driver Model. It provides an  
operating system interface through which instrumented components provide information and notification.  
Color temperature adjustment  
The color temperature adjustment function enables you to adjust the color temperature and brightness of  
your computer monitor. For detailed instructions, see “Color temperature adjustment” on page 17.  
Input/Output (I/O) features  
• 9-pin serial port  
• Six Universal Serial Bus (USB) connectors  
• One Ethernet connector  
• Two audio connectors (microphone connector and headphone connector)  
For more information, see “Locating connectors, controls, and indicators on the front of your computer” on  
page 8 and “Locating connectors on the rear of your computer” on page 9.  
Expansion  
• One optical drive bay  
• One hard disk drive bay  
Power supply  
Your computer comes with 150-watt automatic voltage-sensing power supply.  
Security features  
• Computrace Agent software embedded in firmware  
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• Cover presence switch (also called intrusion switch)  
• Ability to enable or disable a device  
• Ability to enable and disable USB connectors individually  
• Keyboard with fingerprint reader (shipped with some models)  
• Power-on password (POP), administrator password, and hard disk drive password to deter unauthorized  
use of your computer  
• Startup sequence control  
• Startup without keyboard or mouse  
• Support for an integrated cable lock (Kensington lock)  
• Trusted Platform Module (TPM)  
For more information, see Chapter 4 “Security” on page 25.  
Preinstalled software programs  
Your computer is preinstalled with software programs to help you work more easily and securely. For more  
information, see “Software overview” on page 4.  
Preinstalled operating system  
Your computer is preinstalled with the Microsoft® Windows® 7 operating system.  
Operating system(s), certified or tested for compatibility1 (varies by model type)  
• Linux®  
• Microsoft Windows XP Professional SP 3  
1. The operating system(s) listed here are being certified or tested for compatibility at the time this publication goes to  
press. Additional operating systems might be identified by Lenovo as compatible with your computer following the  
publication of this manual. This list is subject to change. To determine if an operating system has been certified or  
tested for compatibility, check the Web site of the operating system vendor.  
Chapter 1. Product overview  
 
3
Specifications  
This section lists the physical specifications for your computer.  
Dimensions  
Width: 506.8 mm (19.95 inches)  
Height: 411.0 mm (16.18 inches)  
Depth: 71.5 mm (2.81 inches) for non-touch model; 78.0 mm (3.07 inches) for touch model  
Weight  
Maximum configuration as shipped: 7.54 kg (16.62 lb) for non-touch model; 8.85 kg (19.51 lb) for touch model  
Environment  
• Air temperature:  
Operating: 10°C to 35°C (50°F to 95°F)  
Non-operating: -20°C to 60°C (-4°F to 140°F)  
Non-operating: -10°C to 60°C (14°F to 140°F) (without package)  
• Humidity:  
Operating: 20% to 80% (non-condensing)  
Non-operating: 20% to 90% (non-condensing)  
• Altitude:  
Operating: -50 to 10 000 ft (-15.2 to 3 048 m)  
Non-operating: -50 to 35 000 ft (-15.2 to 10 668 m)  
Electrical input  
• Input voltage:  
– Low range:  
Minimum: 100 V ac  
Maximum: 127 V ac  
Input frequency range: 50 to 60 Hz  
– High range:  
Minimum: 200 V ac  
Maximum: 240 V ac  
Input frequency range: 50 to 60 Hz  
Software overview  
The computer comes with a preinstalled operating system and several software programs provided by  
Lenovo.  
Software provided by Lenovo  
The following software programs are provided by Lenovo to help you improve productivity and reduce the  
cost associated with maintaining your computer. Software programs provided with your computer might  
vary depending on your computer model type and preinstalled operating system.  
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Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools  
The Lenovo ThinkVantage® Tools program guides you to a host of information sources and provides easy  
access to various tools to help you work more easily and securely.  
To access the Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools program, click Start ➙ All Programs ➙ Lenovo ThinkVantage  
Tools.  
The following table lists the programs that you can access from the Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools program. To  
access a program, double-click the corresponding icon.  
Table 1. Program icon names in Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools  
Program name  
Create Recovery Media  
Icon name in Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools  
Factory Recovery Disks  
Fingerprint Reader  
System Health and Diagnostics  
Password Vault  
Fingerprint Software  
Lenovo ThinkVantage Toolbox  
ThinkVantage Password Manager  
ThinkVantage Power Manager  
ThinkVantage Rescue and Recovery®  
ThinkVantage System Update  
Communications Utility  
Power Controls  
Enhanced Backup and Restore  
Update and Drives  
Web Conferencing  
View Management Utility  
Screen Layout  
Lenovo Welcome  
The Lenovo Welcome program introduces you to some innovative built-in features of Lenovo and guides you  
through a few important setup tasks to help you make the most of your computer.  
Fingerprint Software  
The integrated fingerprint reader provided on some keyboards enables you to enroll your fingerprint and  
associate it with your power-on password, hard disk drive password, and Windows password. As a result,  
fingerprint authentication can replace passwords and enable simple and secure user access. A fingerprint  
reader keyboard is available with select computers or can be purchased for computers that support this  
option.  
Lenovo ThinkVantage Toolbox  
The Lenovo ThinkVantage Toolbox program helps you maintain your computer, improve computing security,  
diagnose computer problems, get familiar with the innovative technologies provided by Lenovo, and get more  
information about your computer. See “Lenovo ThinkVantage Toolbox” on page 68 for detailed information.  
Product Recovery  
The Product Recovery program enables you to restore the contents of the hard disk drive to the factory  
default settings.  
ThinkVantage Password Manager  
The ThinkVantage Password Manager program automatically captures and fills in authentication information  
for Windows applications and Web sites.  
Notes:  
Chapter 1. Product overview  
 
5
   
• If the Password Vault icon in the Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools program is dimmed, it indicates that you  
need to install the ThinkVantage Password Manager program manually before enabling its features. To  
install the ThinkVantage Password Manager program, do the following:  
1. Click Start ➙ All Programs ➙ Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools, and double-click Password Vault.  
2. Follow the instructions on the screen.  
3. When the installation process completes, the Password Vault icon is activated.  
ThinkVantage Power Manager  
The ThinkVantage Power Manager program provides convenient, flexible, and complete power management  
for your ThinkCentre® computer. By using the ThinkVantage Power Manager program, you can adjust your  
power settings to achieve the best balance between system performance and power saving.  
ThinkVantage Rescue and Recovery  
The ThinkVantage Rescue and Recovery program is a one button recovery and restore solution that includes  
a set of self-recovery tools to help you diagnose computer problems, get help, and recover from system  
crashes, even if you cannot start the Windows operating system.  
Note: If the Enhanced Backup and Restore icon in the Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools program is dimmed, it  
indicates that you need to install the ThinkVantage Rescue and Recovery program manually before enabling  
its features. To install the ThinkVantage Rescue and Recovery program, do the following:  
1. Click Start ➙ All Programs ➙ Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools, and double-click Enhanced Backup  
and Restore.  
2. Follow the instructions on the screen.  
3. When the installation process completes, the Enhanced Backup and Restore icon is activated.  
ThinkVantage System Update  
The ThinkVantage System Update program helps you keep the software on your computer up-to-date by  
downloading and installing software packages (ThinkVantage applications, device drivers, BIOS updates,  
and other third party applications).  
Communication 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.  
View Management Utility  
The View Management Utility program enables you to automate window locations. It enhances productivity  
by providing the ability to move windows to hot corners and quickly snap them to a predetermined size.  
It enables you to work across multiple monitors.  
Adobe Reader  
The Adobe Reader program is a tool used to view, print, and search PDF documents.  
Antivirus software  
Your computer comes with antivirus software that you can use to detect and eliminate viruses. Lenovo  
provides a full version of antivirus software on your hard disk drive with a free 30-day subscription. After 30  
days, you must renew the license to continue receiving the antivirus program updates.  
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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.  
Chapter 1. Product overview  
7
 
 
Locating connectors, controls, and indicators on the front of your  
computer  
Figure 1 “Front connector, control, and indicator locations” on page 8 shows the locations of the connectors,  
controls, and indicators on the front of your computer.  
Figure 1. Front connector, control, and indicator locations  
1 Integrated Microphone  
6 Hard disk drive activity indictor  
7 Brightness-up / Auto-adjusting control 1  
8 Brightness-down control  
9 Foot stand  
2 Integrated camera indicator  
3 Integrated camera block shield  
4 Liquid crystal display (LCD) panel  
5 Power switch  
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Locating connectors on the rear of your computer  
Figure 2 “Rear connector locations” on page 9 shows the locations of the connectors on the rear of your  
computer. Some connectors on the rear of your computer are color-coded to help you determine where to  
connect the cables on your computer.  
Figure 2. Rear connector locations  
1 Optical drive  
7 Card reader  
2 USB connector (4)  
3 Power cord connector  
4 Ethernet connector  
5 Serial port  
8 USB connector  
9 Headphone connector  
10 Microphone connector  
11 USB connector  
6 DisplayPort connector  
Chapter 1. Product overview  
9
 
     
Connector  
Description  
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.  
USB connector  
Used to attach a device that requires a USB connector, such as a USB keyboard, a  
USB mouse, a USB scanner, or a USB printer. If you have more than six USB  
devices, you can purchase a USB hub, which you can use to connect additional  
USB devices.  
Microphone connector  
DisplayPort out connector  
Serial port  
Used to attach a microphone to your computer when you want to record sound or if  
you use speech-recognition software.  
Used to attach a high-performance monitor, a direct-drive monitor, or other devices  
that use a DisplayPort connector.  
Used to attach an external modem, a serial printer, or other devices that use a  
9-pin serial port.  
Adjusting the computer stand  
Your computer comes with a computer stand that you can use to adjust the computer to your comfortable  
position. Pull the stand open and adjust the position of the computer at an angle between 10° to 32°  
as shown in the following illustration.  
CAUTION:  
Make sure that the angle is at least 10° from the vertical; otherwise, the computer might be unstable  
and fall over.  
Figure 3. Adjusting the computer stand  
10 ThinkCentre User Guide  
 
             
Machine type and model label  
The machine type and model label identifies your computer. When you contact Lenovo for help, the machine  
type and model information helps support technicians to identify your computer and provide faster service.  
The following is a sample of the machine type and model label.  
Figure 4. Machine type and model label  
Chapter 1. Product overview 11  
 
 
12 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 33.  
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 69. Before using the Product Recovery discs, refer  
to the documentation that comes with the discs.  
Attention: A Product Recovery disc package might contain multiple discs. Make sure you have all of the  
discs ready before starting the recovery process. During the recovery process, you might be prompted  
to change discs.  
Where can I find help about the Windows operating system?  
The Windows Help and Support information system provides you detailed information about using the  
Windows operating system to help you get the most of your computer. To access the Windows Help and  
Support information system, click Start ➙ Help and Support.  
Using the keyboard  
Depending on your model, your computer comes with either a standard keyboard or a fingerprint reader  
keyboard. The Microsoft Windows shortcut keys are provided on both keyboard types.  
This section provides information about the following topics:  
•
•
•
“Using Windows shortcut keys” on page 13  
“Using the blue ThinkVantage button” on page 14  
“Using a fingerprint reader” on page 14  
Using Windows shortcut keys  
Both the standard keyboard and the fingerprint reader keyboard provide three keys you can use with your  
Microsoft Windows operating system.  
• The two Start menu keys are located beside the Alt key on either side of the spacebar. They feature the  
Windows logo. When you press either, the Windows Start menu opens. The style of the Windows logo  
varies depending on the keyboard type.  
• The context-menu key is located next to the Ctrl key on the right side of the Spacebar. Pressing the  
context-menu key opens the context menu for the active program, icon, or object.  
© Copyright Lenovo 2011  
13  
 
       
Note: You can use the mouse or the Up and Down arrow keys to highlight menu selections. You can close  
the Start menu or the context menu by clicking the mouse or pressing Esc.  
Using 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.  
• If you are using the Windows 7 operating system, pressing the blue ThinkVantage button opens the  
Lenovo ThinkVantage Toolbox program.  
For more information about the Lenovo ThinkVantage Toolbox program, see “Lenovo ThinkVantage Toolbox”  
on page 68.  
Using a fingerprint reader  
Some computers might come with a keyboard that has a fingerprint reader. For more information about the  
fingerprint reader, see “Fingerprint Software” on page 5.  
To open the ThinkVantage Fingerprint Software program and use the fingerprint reader, click Start ➙ All  
Programs ➙ Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools ➙ Fingerprint Reader  
Follow the instructions on the screen. For additional information, refer to the ThinkVantage Fingerprint  
Software help system.  
Using the wheel mouse  
1 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.  
2 Primary mouse button  
Use this button to select or start a program or menu item.  
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.  
14 ThinkCentre User Guide  
 
       
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 15.  
Adding the volume icon to the taskbar  
To add the volume icon to the taskbar on the Windows 7 operating system, do the following:  
1. From the Windows desktop, click Start ➙ Control Panel ➙ Appearance and Personalization.  
2. In the Taskbar and Start Menu topic, click Customize icons on the taskbar.  
3. Click Turn system icons on or off and change the volume behaviors from Off to On.  
4. Click OK to save the new settings.  
Setting the volume from Control Panel  
You can set the computer volume from Control Panel. To set the computer volume from Control Panel,  
do the following:  
1. From the Windows desktop, click Start ➙ Control Panel ➙ Hardware and Sound.  
2. In the Sound topic, click Adjust system volume.  
3. Move the sliders up or down to raise or lower the volume of your computer.  
Using CDs and DVDs  
Your computer might have a DVD ROM drive or recordable DVD drive installed. DVD drives use  
industry-standard, 12 cm (4.75-inch) CD media or DVD media. If your computer comes with a DVD drive,  
the drive can read DVD-ROM discs, DVD-R discs, DVD-RAM discs, DVD-RW discs, and all types of CDs,  
such as CD-ROM discs, CD-RW discs, CD-R discs, and audio CDs. If you have a recordable DVD drive,  
it can also record on DVD-R discs, DVD-RW discs, type II DVD-RAM discs, CD-RW standard and high  
speed discs, and CD-R discs.  
Follow these guidelines when using the DVD drive:  
• Do not place the computer in a location where the drive is exposed to the following:  
– High temperature  
– High humidity  
– Excessive dust  
Chapter 2. Using your computer 15  
 
         
– Excessive vibration or sudden shock  
– An inclined surface  
– Direct sunlight  
• Do not insert any object other than a CD or DVD into the drive.  
• Before moving the computer, remove the CD or DVD from the drive.  
Handling and storing CD and DVD media  
CD and DVD media are durable and reliable, but they do require some care and special handling. When  
handling and storing a CD or DVD, follow these guidelines:  
• Hold the disc by its edges. Do not touch the surface of the side that is not labeled.  
• To remove dust or fingerprints, wipe the disc with a clean, soft cloth from the center to the outside. Wiping  
the disc in a circular direction might cause loss of data.  
• Do not write or stick paper on the disc.  
• Do not scratch or mark the disc.  
• Do not place or store the disc in direct sunlight.  
• Do not use benzene, thinners, or other cleaners to clean the disc.  
• Do not drop or bend the disc.  
• Do not insert damaged discs into the drive. Warped, scratched, or dirty discs can damage the drive.  
Playing a CD or DVD  
If your computer comes with a DVD drive, you can listen to audio CDs or watch DVD movies. To play a  
CD or DVD, do the following:  
1. Press the Eject/Load button on the DVD drive to open the tray.  
2. With the tray fully extended, insert the CD or DVD into the tray. Some DVD drives have a snap hub in the  
center of the tray. If your drive has a snap hub, support the tray with one hand and then push on the  
center of the CD or DVD until it snaps into place.  
3. Press the Eject/Load button again or gently push the tray forward to close the tray. The CD or DVD  
player program starts automatically. For additional information, refer to the CD or DVD player program  
help system.  
To remove a CD or DVD from the DVD drive, do the following:  
1. With the computer on, press the Eject/Load button. When the tray slides out automatically, carefully  
remove the disc.  
2. Close the tray by pressing the Eject/Load button or by gently pushing the tray forward.  
Note: If the tray does not slide out of the drive when you press the Eject/Load button, insert a straightened  
paper clip into the emergency-eject hole located on the front of the DVD drive. Be sure the drive is powered  
off when using the emergency eject. Use the Eject/Load button instead of the emergency eject except  
in an emergency.  
Recording a CD or DVD  
If your computer comes with a recordable DVD drive, you can use the drive to record CDs or DVDs. To  
record a CD or DVD, do the following:  
1. Click Start ➙ All Programs ➙ Corel DVD MovieFactory Lenovo Edition.  
2. Follow the instructions on the screen.  
16 ThinkCentre User Guide  
 
     
For detailed information about using the Corel DVD MovieFactory program, see the help system for the  
program.  
You can also use Windows Media Player to record CDs and data DVDs. For more information, see “Help and  
Support” on page 69.  
Using the single-touch and multi-touch feature  
Note: The single-touch feature or multi-touch feature is only available on some computer models.  
Your computer might come with the single-touch feature or multi-touch feature depending on your model.  
If the single-touch feature or the multi-touch feature is available on your computer, you can tap the touch  
screen once with your finger to make a single click. To make a double-click, tap twice without pausing.  
To make a right-click, tap the touch screen once and then hold your finger on the touch screen until a  
round circle is displayed. Then, lift your finger off the touch screen. A context menu will be displayed,  
where you can make selections.  
Using the single-touch feature  
The single-touch feature enables you to use only one finger at a time to interact with your computer.  
Using the multi-touch feature  
The multi-touch feature enables you to use one or two fingers to interact with your computer. For example,  
you can zoom in, zoom out, scroll, or rotate on the touch screen with two fingers while browsing the Internet  
or reading or editing a document.  
The following table shows the supported touch feature on each operating system edition.  
Table 2. Operating system edition and supported touch feature  
Operating system edition  
Windows 7 Starter  
Supported touch feature  
Single-touch  
Single-touch  
Windows 7 Home Basic  
Windows 7 Home Premium  
Windows 7 Professional  
Windows 7 Ultimate  
Single-touch or multi-touch  
Single-touch or multi-touch  
Single-touch or multi-touch  
Color temperature adjustment  
The color temperature adjustment function enables you to adjust the color temperature and brightness of  
your computer monitor.  
Press the brightness-up button. The following six options are displayed:  
• Auto adjustment: Select this option, and then the monitor color temperature and brightness will be  
adjusted automatically.  
• Pre-defined color temperature: For detailed instructions, see “Selecting a pre-defined color  
temperature” on page 18.  
• Switch to RGB adjustment: For detailed instructions, see “Switching to RGB adjustment” on page 18.  
• Brightness adjustment: For detailed instructions, see “Making brightness adjustment” on page 18.  
• Default setting: Select this option to use the default settings.  
• Exit: Select this option to exit.  
Chapter 2. Using your computer 17  
 
   
Selecting a pre-defined color temperature  
To select a pre-defined color temperature, do the following:  
1. Press the brightness-up button. The following six options are displayed:  
• Auto adjustment  
• Pre-defined color temperature  
• Switch to RGB adjustment  
• Brightness adjustment  
• Default setting  
• Exit  
2. Press the brightness-down button to move to Pre-defined color temperature, and then press the  
brightness-up button to select one of the following options:  
• Cold: If you select this option, your computer produces a gentle and blue-hued image.  
• Normal: If you select this option, your computer produces a normal image.  
• Warm: If you select this option, your computer produces a red-hued image.  
• Exit: Select this option or wait for five seconds to exit .  
Switching to RGB adjustment  
After the pre-defined color temperature is selected, you can switch to RGB (Red, Green, or Blue) adjustment  
to make color adjustment for your computer.  
To switch to RGB adjustment, do the following:  
1. Press the brightness-up button. The following six options are displayed:  
• Auto adjustment  
• Pre-defined color temperature  
• Switch to RGB adjustment  
• Brightness adjustment  
• Default setting  
• Exit  
2. Press the brightness-down button to move to Switch to RGB adjustment, and then press the  
brightness-up button to bring up the following four options:  
• Red-adjustment  
• Green-adjustment  
• Blue-adjustment  
• Exit  
3. Press the brightness-down button to move to the desired option, and then press the brightness-up  
button to select the option. A color adjustment slider is displayed.  
4. Press the brightness-down button to decrease the color temperature, or press the brightness-up button  
to increase the color temperature.  
5. Select Exit or wait for five seconds, and then you will return to the previous menu.  
Making brightness adjustment  
To make brightness adjustment, do the following:  
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1. Press the brightness-up button. The following six options are displayed:  
• Auto adjustment  
• Pre-defined color temperature  
• Switch to RGB adjustment  
• Brightness adjustment  
• Default setting  
• Exit  
2. Press the brightness-down button to move to Brightness adjustment, and then press the brightness-up  
button. A brightness adjustment slider is displayed.  
3. Press the brightness-down button to decrease the brightness level, or press the brightness-up button to  
increase the brightness level.  
4. Wait for five seconds to exit.  
Chapter 2. Using your computer 19  
 
20 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.  
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Adjust the monitor so the top of the screen is at, or slightly below, eye level. Place the monitor at a  
comfortable viewing distance, usually 51 to 61 cm (20 to 24 inches), and position it so you can view it  
without having to twist your body. Also, position other equipment you use regularly, such as the telephone or  
a mouse, within easy reach.  
Glare and lighting  
Position the monitor to minimize glare and reflections from overhead lights, windows, and other light sources.  
Reflected light from shiny surfaces can cause annoying reflections on your monitor screen. Place the  
monitor at right angles to windows and other light sources, when possible. Reduce overhead lighting, if  
necessary, by turning off lights or using lower wattage bulbs. If you install the monitor near a window, use  
curtains or blinds to block the sunlight. You can adjust the brightness and contrast controls on the monitor  
as the room lighting changes throughout the day.  
Where it is impossible to avoid reflections or to adjust the lighting, an antiglare filter placed over the screen  
might be helpful. However, these filters might affect the clarity of the image on the screen; try them only after  
you have exhausted other methods of reducing glare.  
Dust buildup compounds problems associated with glare. Remember to clean your monitor screen  
periodically using a soft cloth as directed in your monitor documentation.  
Air circulation  
Your computer and monitor produce heat. The computer has a fan that pulls in fresh air and forces out hot  
air. The monitor lets hot air escape through vents. Blocking the air vents can cause overheating, which might  
result in a malfunction or damage. Place the computer and monitor so that nothing blocks the air vents;  
usually, 51 mm (2 inches) of air space is sufficient. Also, make sure the vented air is not blowing on people.  
Electrical outlets and cable lengths  
The location of electrical outlets, the length of power cords and cables that connect to the monitor, printer,  
and other devices might determine the final placement of your computer.  
When arranging your workspace:  
• Avoid the use of extension cords. When possible, plug the computer power cord directly into an electrical  
outlet.  
• Keep power cords and cables neatly routed away from walkways and other areas where they might  
get kicked accidentally.  
For more information about power cords, see “Power cords and power adapters” on page iv.  
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Register your computer with Lenovo  
To register your computer, go to http://www.lenovo.com/register. Then, follow the instructions on the screen  
to complete the registration. This can help authorities return your computer to you if it is lost or stolen.  
Registering your computer also enables Lenovo to notify you about possible technical information and  
upgrades.  
When you register your computer, information is entered into a database, which enables Lenovo to contact  
you in case of a recall or other severe problem. In addition, some locations offer extended privileges and  
services to registered users.  
Moving your computer to another country or region  
When you move your computer to another country or region, you must take local electrical standards into  
consideration. This section provides information on the following:  
•
•
“Voltage-selection switch” on page 23  
“Replacement power cords” on page 23  
Voltage-selection switch  
Some computers are equipped with a voltage-selection switch located near the power-cord connection  
point on the computer and some computers do not have a voltage-selection switch. Before you install  
your computer or relocate your computer to another country or region, you must be certain that you have  
matched your computer to the voltage available at your electrical outlet.  
CAUTION:  
You must know the voltage of the electrical connection (outlet) where your computer will be  
connected. If you do not know the voltage, contact your local electric company or refer to official  
Web sites or other literature for travelers to the country or region where you are located.  
If your computer has a voltage-selection switch, you must set the switch to match the voltage available at  
your electrical outlet. Setting the voltage-selection switch incorrectly will cause the computer to malfunction  
and might cause permanent damage to the computer. Do not connect the computer to an electrical  
outlet until you have verified that the voltage-selection switch setting matches the voltage available at the  
electrical outlets.  
If your computer does not have a voltage-selection switch, inspect the voltage-rating label on the bottom of  
the computer and note the following:  
• If the voltage-rating label shows a range of either “100-127 V” or “200-240 V,” you must ensure that the  
voltage provided at the electrical outlet matches the voltage rating on the computer label. If it does  
not match, do not attempt to connect the computer to the electrical outlet, unless an external device  
such as a voltage-converting transformer is used.  
• If the voltage-rating label shows a dual range of “100-127 V” and “200-240 V,” this signifies that the  
computer is suitable for worldwide operation and the computer will automatically adjust to the voltage at  
the electrical outlet regardless of the country or region where the computer is being connected.  
Replacement power cords  
If you relocate your computer to a country or region that uses an electrical outlet style different from the  
type you are currently using, you will have to purchase either electrical plug adapters or new power cords.  
You can order power cords directly from Lenovo.  
Chapter 3. You and your computer 23  
 
       
For power cord information and part numbers, go to:  
http://www.lenovo.com/powercordnotice  
24 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.  
• Ability to enable and disable devices and USB connectors  
For more information, see “Enabling or disabling a device” on page 43.  
• 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 43.  
• Startup without keyboard or mouse  
Your computer is able to log in to the operating system without keyboard or mouse connected.  
© Copyright Lenovo 2011  
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Attaching an integrated cable lock  
An integrated cable lock, sometimes referred to as the Kensington lock, can be used to secure your  
computer to a desk, table, or other non-permanent fixture. The cable lock attaches to the integrated cable  
lock slot at the rear of your computer and is operated with a key. The cable lock also locks the buttons used  
to open the computer cover. This is the same type of lock used with many notebook computers. You can  
order an integrated cable lock directly from Lenovo by searching for Kensington at:  
http://www.lenovo.com/support  
Figure 5. 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 42.  
• 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 42.  
26 ThinkCentre User Guide  
 
       
• 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 42.  
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 69.  
Setting the fingerprint reader  
If your keyboard has a fingerprint reader, you can set 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 reader function for entering BIOS password.  
• Erasing Fingerprint Data: clears the fingerprint data stored in a fingerprint reader.  
To set an item on the Fingerprint Setup submenu, do the following:  
1. Start the Setup Utility program. See “Starting the Setup Utility program” on page 41.  
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 Erasing Fingerprint Date as desired, and press Enter.  
4. Select the desired settings and press Enter.  
5. Press F10 to save 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 69.  
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 27  
 
       
For more information about how to use your antivirus software, refer to the help system of your antivirus  
software.  
28 ThinkCentre User Guide  
 
Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware  
This chapter provides instructions on how to install or replace hardware for your computer.  
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 iii.  
Notes:  
1. Use only computer parts provided by Lenovo.  
2. When installing or replacing an option, use the appropriate instructions in this section along with the  
instructions that come with the option.  
Installing external options  
You can connect external options to your computer, such as external speakers, a printer, or a scanner. For  
some external options, you must install additional software in addition to making the physical connection.  
When installing an external option, see “Locating connectors, controls, and indicators on the front of your  
computer” on page 8 and “Locating connectors on the rear of your computer” on page 9 to identify the  
required connector. Then, use the instructions that come with the option to help you make the connection  
and install any software or device drivers that are required for the option.  
Installing a computer wall mount  
Note: When installing a computer wall mount, make sure that you leave at least a 60 mm (2.36 inches) space  
between the wall and your computer for easy access to the connectors on the computer rear panel.  
Replacing the USB keyboard or mouse  
Attention: Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important  
safety information” on page iii.  
This section provides instructions on how to replace the USB keyboard or mouse.  
To replace the USB keyboard or mouse, do the following:  
1. Disconnect the old keyboard cable or mouse cable from the computer.  
© Copyright Lenovo 2011  
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2. Connect a new keyboard or mouse to one of the USB connectors on the computer. Depending on where  
you want to connect the new keyboard or mouse, see “Locating connectors, controls, and indicators on  
the front of your computer” on page 8 or “Locating connectors on the rear of your computer” on page 9.  
Figure 6. Connecting the USB keyboard or mouse  
Replacing the wireless keyboard  
To replace the wireless keyboard, do the following:  
1. Take away your failing wireless keyboard.  
2. Remove the new wireless keyboard from the package.  
3. Install the keyboard by opening the battery compartment cover and installing two AAA batteries  
according to the polarity indicators.  
Figure 7. Installing the keyboard batteries  
4. Remove the USB dongle from the keyboard compartment or from the wireless mouse compartment  
and connect it to an available USB connectors on the computer. See “Replacing the wireless mouse”  
on page 30.  
5. Close the compartment cover. The keyboard is ready for use.  
Replacing the wireless mouse  
To replace the wireless mouse, do the following:  
1. Disconnect the USB dongle from your computer. Then, take away your failing wireless mouse.  
2. Remove the new wireless mouse from the package.  
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3. Remove the USB dongle from the compartment of the new wireless mouse or from the compartment of  
the wireless keyboard.  
4. Then, connect the USB dongle to an available USB connector on your computer.  
5. Correctly install the batteries for the mouse, following the instructions in the table below.  
6. Switch on the power button on the bottom of the wireless mouse, and then it is ready to use.  
Press the battery compartment release button.  
Take out the USB dongle  
Figure 9. Taking out the USB dongle  
Figure 8. Opening the battery compartment  
Insert two AA batteries into the mouse compartment  
according to the polarity indicators.  
Connect the USB dongle to an available USB connector  
on the computer.  
Figure 10. Connecting the USB dongle to an USB  
connector  
Figure 11. Installing the mouse batteries  
Chapter 5. Installing or replacing hardware 31  
 
Push the power switch to the on position and the LED  
(light-emitting diode) is on.  
Close the battery compartment cover and slide it forward  
until it clicks into place.  
Figure 13. Pushing the power switch on  
Figure 12. Closing the battery compartment cover  
Notes:  
• The green LED indicates that the mouse is ready for use.  
• The flashing amber LED indicates a low battery power level.  
• Push the power switch to the off position when you are not using the mouse. This extends the battery life.  
• Disconnect the USB dongle from your computer and store it in the wireless mouse compartment or in  
the wireless keyboard compartment.  
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.  
Notes:  
32 ThinkCentre User Guide  
 
   
Chapter 6. Recovery information  
This chapter provides information about the recovery solutions provided by Lenovo.  
This chapter contains the following topics:  
• Creating and using recovery media  
• Performing backup and recovery operations  
• Using the Rescue and Recovery workspace  
• Creating and using a rescue medium  
• Installing or reinstalling device drivers  
• Solving recovery problems  
Notes:  
1. The recovery information in this chapter only applies to the computers that have the Rescue and  
Recovery program or the Product Recovery program installed. If the Enhanced Backup and Restore  
icon in the Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools program is dimmed, it indicates that you need to install  
the Rescue and Recovery program manually before enabling its features. To install the Rescue and  
Recovery program, do the following:  
a. Click Start ➙ All Programs ➙ Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools, and double-click Enhanced Backup  
and Restore.  
b. Follow the instructions on the screen.  
c. When the installation process completes, the Enhanced Backup and Restore icon is activated.  
2. There are a variety of methods to choose from when considering how to recover in the event of a  
software- or hardware-related problem. Some methods vary depending on the type of operating system  
that is installed.  
3. The product on the recovery media may be used only for the following purposes:  
• Restore the product preinstalled on your computer  
• Reinstall the product  
• Modify the product using the Additional Files  
Creating and using recovery media  
You can use recovery media to restore the hard disk drive to the factory default state. Recovery media are  
useful if you transfer the computer to another area, sell the computer, recycle the computer, or put the  
computer in an operational state after all other methods of recovery have failed. As a precautionary measure,  
it is important to create recovery media as early as possible.  
Note: The recovery operations you can perform using recovery media vary depending on the operating  
system from which the recovery media were created. The recovery media might contain a boot medium  
and a data medium. Your Microsoft Windows license permits you to create only one data medium, so it is  
important that you store the recovery media in a safe place after you have made them.  
Creating recovery media  
This section provides instructions on how to create recovery media.  
Note: On the Windows 7 operating system, you can create recovery media using discs or external USB  
storage devices.  
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To create recovery media on the Windows 7 operating system, click Start ➙ All Programs ➙ Lenovo  
ThinkVantage Tools ➙ Factory Recovery Disks. Then, follow the instructions on the screen.  
Using recovery media  
This section provides instructions on how to use recovery media.  
On the Windows 7 operating system, you can use recovery media to restore the contents of the hard disk  
drive to the factory default state. Also, you can use recovery media to put the computer in an operational  
state after all other methods of hard disk drive recovery have failed.  
Attention: When you use recovery media to restore the contents of the hard disk to the factory default state,  
all the files currently on the hard disk drive will be deleted and replaced by the factory default files.  
To use recovery media on the Windows 7 operating system, do the following:  
1. Depending on the type of your recovery media, connect the boot medium (memory key or other USB  
storage device) to the computer, or insert the boot disc into the optical drive.  
2. Repeatedly press and release the F12 key when turning on the computer. When the Startup Device  
Menu 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 38.  
Performing backup and recovery operations  
The Rescue and Recovery program enables you to back up all your hard disk drive contents including the  
operating system, data files, software programs, and personal settings. You can designate where the  
Rescue and Recovery program stores the backup:  
• In a protected area of your hard disk drive  
• On the secondary hard disk drive if a secondary hard disk drive is installed in your computer  
• On an attached external USB hard disk drive  
• On a network drive  
• On recordable discs (a recordable optical drive is required for this option)  
After you have backed up the contents of the hard disk drive, you can restore the complete contents of the  
hard disk drive, restore selected files only, or restore the Windows operating system and applications only  
while keeping the other data on your hard disk drive.  
Performing a backup operation  
This section provides instructions on how to perform a backup operation using the Rescue and Recovery  
program.  
To perform a backup operation using the Rescue and Recovery program on the Windows 7 operating  
system, do the following:  
1. From the Windows desktop, click Start ➙ All Programs ➙ Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools ➙ Enhanced  
Backup and Restore. The Rescue and Recovery program opens.  
2. In the Rescue and Recovery main window, click the Launch advanced Rescue and Recovery arrow.  
34 ThinkCentre User Guide  
 
         
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 35.  
Using the Rescue and Recovery workspace  
The Rescue and Recovery workspace resides in a protected, hidden area of your hard disk drive that  
operates independently from the Windows operating system. This enables you to perform recovery  
operations even if you cannot start the Windows operating system. You can perform the following recovery  
operations from the Rescue and Recovery workspace:  
• Rescue files from your hard disk drive or from a backup: The Rescue and Recovery workspace enables  
you to locate files on your hard disk drive and transfer them to a network drive or other recordable media,  
such as a USB device or a disc. This solution is available even if you did not back up your files or if  
changes were made to the files since your last backup operation. You can also rescue individual files from  
a Rescue and Recovery backup located on your local hard disk drive, a USB device, or a network drive.  
• Restore your hard disk drive from a Rescue and Recovery backup: If you have backed up your hard disk  
drive using the Rescue and Recovery program, you can restore the hard disk drive from a Rescue and  
Recovery backup, even if you cannot start the Windows operating system.  
• Restore your hard disk drive to the factory default state: The Rescue and Recovery workspace enables  
you to restore the complete contents of your hard disk drive to the factory default state. If you have  
multiple partitions on your hard disk drive, you have the option to restore the C: partition and leave the  
other partitions intact. Because the Rescue and Recovery workspace operates independently from  
the Windows operating system, you can restore the hard disk drive to the factory default state even if  
you cannot start the Windows operating system.  
Attention: If you restore the hard disk drive from a Rescue and Recovery backup or restore the hard disk  
drive to the factory default settings, all files on the primary hard disk drive partition (usually drive C:) will be  
deleted in the recovery process. If possible, make copies of important files. If you are unable to start the  
Windows operating system, you can use the rescue files feature of the Rescue and Recovery workspace to  
copy files from your hard disk drive to other media.  
To start the Rescue and Recovery workspace, do the following:  
1. Make sure the computer is turned off.  
2. Turn on your computer. When you see the logo screen, press Enter, and then press F11 to enter the  
Rescue and Recovery workspace.  
3. If you have set a Rescue and Recovery password, type your password when prompted. The Rescue  
and Recovery workspace opens after a short delay.  
Chapter 6. Recovery information 35  
 
       
Note: If the Rescue and Recovery workspace fails to open, see “Solving recovery problems” on page 38.  
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 advanced usages about the ThinkVantage Rescue and Recovery, click Launch advanced  
Rescue and Recovery.  
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 38.  
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.  
36 ThinkCentre User Guide  
 
         
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.  
Chapter 6. Recovery information 37  
 
   
Note: If you need updated device drivers, see “Getting the latest device drivers for your computer” on  
page 47 for more information.  
Reinstalling software programs  
If a software program you installed on your computer is not working correctly, you might need to remove  
and reinstall it. Reinstalling overwrites the existing programs files and usually fixes any problems that  
you might have had with that program.  
To remove a program in your system, see Microsoft Windows help system for detailed information.  
To reinstall the program, do one of the following:  
Note: The method of reinstalling a program varies from program to program. Refer to the documentation  
provided with the program to see if your program has special installation instructions.  
• To reinstall most commercially available programs in your system, see Microsoft Windows help system  
for more information.  
• To reinstall selected application programs that came preinstalled from Lenovo, do the following:  
1. Turn on the computer.  
2. 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 37.  
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 36.  
• 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 33.  
Note: If you are unable to access the Rescue and Recovery workspace or the Windows environment from  
a rescue medium or recovery media, you might not have the rescue device (an internal hard disk drive, a  
disc, a USB hard disk drive, or other external devices) set as the first boot device in the startup device  
sequence. You must first make sure that your rescue device is set as the first boot device in the startup  
device sequence in the Setup Utility program. See “Selecting a startup device” on page 43 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 41.  
38 ThinkCentre User Guide  
 
           
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.  
Chapter 6. Recovery information 39  
 
40 ThinkCentre User Guide  
 
Chapter 7. Using the Setup Utility program  
The Setup Utility program is used to view and change the configuration settings of your computer, regardless  
of which operating system you are using. However, the operating system settings might override any similar  
settings in the Setup Utility program.  
Starting the Setup Utility program  
To start the Setup Utility program, do the following:  
1. Make sure your computer is turned off.  
2. Repeatedly press and release the F1 key when turning on the computer. When you hear multiple  
beeps or see a logo screen, release the F1 key.  
Note: If a Power-On Password or an Administrator Password has been set, the Setup Utility program  
menu will not be displayed until you type the correct password. For more information, see “Using  
passwords” on page 41.  
When the POST detects that the hard disk drive has been removed from your computer or the memory  
module size has decreased, an error message will be displayed when you start the computer and you will be  
prompted to do one of the following:  
• Press F1 to enter the Setup Utility program.  
Note: After you enter the Setup Utility program, select Save Changes and Exit at the bottom of the  
screen. The error message will not be displayed again.  
• Press F2 to bypass the error message and log in to the operating system.  
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 41. Then, follow  
the instructions on the screen.  
You can use the keyboard 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  
• 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.  
© Copyright Lenovo 2011  
41  
 
                   
Password considerations  
A password can be any combination of up to 64 alphabetic and numeric characters. For security reasons, it  
is recommended to use a strong password that cannot be easily compromised. To set a strong password,  
use the following guidelines:  
• Have at least eight characters in length  
• Contain at least one alphabetic character and one numeric character  
• Setup Utility program and hard disk drive passwords are not case sensitive  
• Not be your name or your user name  
• Not be a common word or a common name  
• Be significantly different from your previous passwords  
Power-On Password  
When a Power-On Password is set, you are prompted to type a valid password each time the computer is  
turned on. The computer cannot be used until the valid password is typed in.  
Administrator Password  
Setting an Administrator Password deters unauthorized users from changing configuration settings. If you  
are responsible for maintaining the configuration settings of several computers, you might want to set an  
Administrator Password.  
When an Administrator Password is set, you are prompted to type a valid password each time you try to  
access the Setup Utility program. The Setup Utility program cannot be accessed until a valid password  
is typed in.  
If both the Power-On Password and Administrator Password are set, you can type either password. However,  
you must use your Administrator Password to change any configuration settings.  
Hard Disk Password  
Setting a Hard Disk Password prevents unauthorized access to the data on the hard disk drive. When a  
Hard Disk Password is set, you are prompted to type a valid password each time you try to access the  
hard disk drive.  
Notes:  
• After you set a Hard Disk Password, your data on the hard disk drive is protected even if the hard disk  
drive is removed from one computer and installed in another.  
• If the Hard Disk Password is forgotten, there is no way to reset the password or recover data from the  
hard disk drive.  
Setting, changing, and deleting a password  
To set, change, or delete a password, do the following:  
1. Start the Setup Utility program. See “Starting the Setup Utility program” on page 41.  
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.  
42 ThinkCentre User Guide  
 
                 
Note: A password can be any combination of up to 64 alphabetic and numeric characters. For more  
information, see “Password considerations” on page 42.  
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 41.  
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 and exit the Setup Utility program. See “Exiting from the Setup Utility program”  
on page 44.  
Selecting a startup device  
If your computer does not start up from a device such as the disc or hard disk drive as expected, do one of  
the following to select the startup device you want.  
Selecting a temporary startup device  
Use this procedure to select a temporary startup device.  
Note: Not all discs and hard disk drives are bootable.  
1. Turn off your computer.  
2. Repeatedly press and release the F12 key when turning on the computer. When the Startup Device  
Menu window displays, release the F12 key.  
3. Select the desired startup device and press Enter. The computer will start up from the device you  
selected.  
Note: Selecting a startup device from the Startup Device Menu window does not permanently change  
the startup sequence.  
Selecting or changing the startup device sequence  
To view or permanently change the configured startup device sequence, do the following:  
1. Start the Setup Utility program. See “Starting the Setup Utility program” on page 41.  
2. From the Setup Utility program main menu, select Startup.  
3. Select the devices for the Primary Boot Sequence, the Automatic Boot Sequence, and the Error Boot  
Sequence. Read the information displayed on the right side of the screen.  
4. Press F10 to save and exit the Setup Utility program. See “Exiting from the Setup Utility program”  
on page 44.  
Chapter 7. Using the Setup Utility program 43  
 
                     
Exiting from the Setup Utility program  
After you finish viewing or changing settings, press Esc to return to the Setup Utility program main menu.  
You might have to press Esc several times. Do one of the following:  
• If you want to save the new settings, press F10 to save and exit the Setup Utility program.  
• If you do not want to save the settings, select Exit ➙ Discard Changes and Exit, 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.  
44 ThinkCentre User Guide  
 
   
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 41 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 opens, release the F12 key.  
3. On the Startup Device Menu, select the desired optical drive as the startup device. Then, insert the  
disc into this optical drive and press Enter. The update begins.  
4. When prompted to change the serial number, it is suggested that you do not make this change by  
pressing N. However, if you do want to change the serial number, press Y, then type in the serial number  
and press Enter.  
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.  
© Copyright Lenovo 2011  
45  
 
           
Updating (flashing) the BIOS from your operating system  
Note: Because Lenovo makes constant improvements to its Web sites, the Web page contents are subject  
to change without notice, including the contents referenced in the following procedure.  
To update (flash) the BIOS from your operating system, do the following:  
1. Go to http://www.lenovo.com/support.  
2. Do the following to locate the downloadable files for your machine type:  
a. In the Enter a product number field, type your machine type and click Go.  
b. Click Downloads and drivers.  
c. Select BIOS from the Refine results drop-down list box to easily locate all the BIOS related links.  
d. Click the BIOS update link.  
3. Click the TXT file that contains the instructions for updating (flashing) the BIOS from your operating  
system.  
4. Print these instructions. This is very important because these instructions will not be displayed on  
the screen after the download begins.  
5. Follow the printed instructions to download, extract, and install the update.  
46 ThinkCentre User Guide  
 
   
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 47  
“Updating your operating system” on page 47  
“Using System Update” on page 47  
Getting the latest device drivers for your computer  
You can download and install updated device drivers from the Lenovo Web site by doing the following:  
Attention: Do not download updated device drivers from the Windows Update Web site. The device  
drivers provided on the Windows Web site have not been tested by Lenovo and using them might cause  
unexpected problems. Obtain updated device drivers from Lenovo.  
1. Go to http://www.lenovo.com/support.  
2. Click Downloads and 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 47 for more information.  
To access the Microsoft Windows Update site, do the following:  
1. Go to http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com/.  
2. Follow the instructions on the screen.  
Using System Update  
The System Update program helps you keep the software on your computer up-to-date. Update packages  
are stored on Lenovo servers and can be downloaded from the Lenovo Support Web site. Update packages  
© Copyright Lenovo 2011  
47  
 
           
can contain applications, device drivers, BIOS flashes, or software updates. When the System Update  
program connects to the Lenovo Support Web site, the System Update program automatically recognizes  
the machine type and model of your computer, the installed operating system, and the language of the  
operating system to determine what updates are available for your computer. The System Update program  
then displays a list of update packages and categorizes each update as critical, recommended, and  
optional to help you understand the importance. You have complete control of which updates to download  
and install. After you select the update packages you want, the System Update program automatically  
downloads and installs the updates without any further intervention from you.  
The System Update program is preinstalled on most Lenovo computers and is ready to run. The only  
prerequisite is an active Internet connection. You can start the program manually, or you can use the  
schedule feature to enable the program to search for updates automatically at specified intervals. You also  
can predefine scheduled updates to search by severity (critical updates, critical and recommended updates,  
or all updates) so the list you choose from contains only those update types that are of interest to you.  
If the System Update program came with your computer, you can open it by completing the following  
procedure:  
On the Windows 7 operating system, do the following:  
1. Click Start ➙ Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools.  
2. Double-click Update and Drivers.  
If the System Update program is not currently installed on your computer, you can download it from the  
Lenovo Support Web site at http://www.lenovo.com/support.  
Cleaning and maintenance  
With appropriate care and maintenance your computer will serve you reliably. The following topics offer  
information to help you keep your computer in top working order.  
•
•
“Basics” on page 48  
“Cleaning your computer” on page 49  
–
“Computer” on page 49  
“Keyboard” on page 49  
–
–
–
“Optical mouse” on page 49  
“Display screen” on page 49  
•
“Good maintenance practices” on page 50  
Basics  
Here are some basic points about keeping your computer functioning properly:  
• Keep your computer in a clean, dry environment. Make sure it rests on a flat, steady surface.  
• Do not place items on top of the monitor or cover any of the vents in the monitor or computer. These  
vents provide airflow to keep your computer from overheating.  
• Keep food and drinks away from all parts of your computer. Food particles and spills might make the  
keyboard and mouse stick and unusable.  
• Do not get the power switches or other controls wet. Moisture can damage these parts and cause an  
electrical hazard.  
• Always disconnect a power cord by grasping the plug, but not the cord.  
48 ThinkCentre User Guide  
 
   
Cleaning your computer  
It is a good practice to clean your computer periodically to protect the surfaces and ensure trouble-free  
operation.  
CAUTION:  
Be sure to turn off the computer and monitor power switches before cleaning the computer and  
monitor screen.  
Computer  
Use only mild cleaning solutions and a damp cloth to clean the painted surfaces of the computer.  
Keyboard  
To clean your computer keyboard, do the following:  
1. Apply some isopropyl rubbing alcohol to a soft, dust-free cloth.  
2. Wipe each keytop surface with the cloth. Wipe the keys one by one; if you wipe several keys at a time,  
the cloth may hook onto an adjacent key and possibly damage it. Make sure that no liquid drips onto  
or between the keys.  
3. To remove any crumbs or dust from beneath the keys, you can use a camera blower with a brush  
or cool air from a hair dryer.  
Note: Avoid spraying cleaner directly onto the display or the keyboard.  
Optical mouse  
This section provides instructions on how to clean an optical mouse.  
An optical mouse uses a light-emitting diode (LED) and an optical sensor to navigate the pointer. If the  
pointer on the screen does not move smoothly with the optical mouse, you might need to clean the mouse.  
To clean an optical mouse, do the following:  
1. Turn off your computer.  
2. Disconnect the mouse cable from the computer.  
3. Turn the mouse upside down to check the lens.  
a. If there is a smudge on the lens, gently clean the area with a plain cotton-tipped swab.  
b. If there is debris in the lens, gently blow the debris away from the area.  
4. Check the surface on which you are using the mouse. If you have a very intricate picture or pattern  
beneath the mouse, it may be difficult for the digital signal processor (DSP) to determine changes  
in the mouse position.  
5. Reconnect the mouse cable to the computer.  
6. Turn your computer back on.  
Display screen  
Dust buildup compounds problems associated with glare. Remember to clean your monitor screen  
periodically. See “Cleaning a flat-panel monitor surface” on page 49 or “Cleaning a glass-screen surface”  
on page 50.  
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.  
Chapter 9. Preventing problems  
 
49  
             
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 47 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 33 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 36 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 34 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.  
50 ThinkCentre User Guide  
 
     
Chapter 10. Troubleshooting and diagnostics  
This chapter describes some basic troubleshooting and diagnostic programs. If your computer problem  
is not described here, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and service” on page 69 for additional  
troubleshooting resources.  
Basic troubleshooting  
The following table provides information to help you troubleshoot your computer problems.  
Note: If you cannot correct the problem, have the computer serviced. For a list of service and support  
telephone numbers, refer to the ThinkCentre Safety and Warranty Guide that comes with your computer or  
go to the Lenovo Support Web site at http://www.lenovo.com/support/phone.  
Symptom  
Action  
The computer does not start  
when you press the power  
switch.  
Verify that:  
• The power cord is correctly connected to the rear of the computer and to a  
working electrical outlet.  
• If your computer has a secondary power switch on the rear of the computer,  
make sure that it is switched on.  
• The power indicator on the front of the computer is on.  
• The computer voltage matches the voltage available at the electrical outlet for  
your country or region.  
The monitor screen is blank.  
Verify that:  
• The monitor signal cable is correctly connected to the monitor and to the  
appropriate monitor connector on the computer.  
• The monitor power cord is correctly connected to the monitor and to a working  
electrical outlet.  
• The monitor is turned on and the brightness and contrast controls are set  
correctly.  
• The computer voltage matches the voltage available at the electrical outlet for  
your country or region.  
• If your computer has two monitor connectors, be sure to use the connector  
on the graphics card.  
The keyboard does not work.  
The mouse does not work.  
Verify that:  
• The computer is turned on.  
• The keyboard is securely connected to a USB connector on the computer.  
• No keys are stuck.  
Verify that:  
• The computer is turned on.  
• The mouse is securely connected to a USB connector on the computer.  
• The mouse is clean. Refer to “Optical mouse” on page 49 for further information.  
© Copyright Lenovo 2011  
51  
 
       
Symptom  
Action  
The operating system does not  
start.  
Verify that:  
• The startup sequence includes the device where the operating system resides.  
Usually, the operating system is on the hard disk drive. For more information,  
see “Selecting a startup device” on page 43.  
The computer beeps multiple  
times before the operating  
system starts.  
Verify that no keys are stuck.  
Troubleshooting procedure  
Use the following procedure as a starting point for diagnosing problems you are experiencing with your  
computer:  
1. Verify that the cables for all attached devices are connected correctly and securely.  
2. Verify that all attached devices that require ac power are connected to properly grounded, functioning  
electrical outlets.  
3. Verify that all attached devices are enabled in the BIOS settings of your computer. For more information  
about accessing and changing the BIOS settings, refer to your Chapter 7 “Using the Setup Utility  
program” on page 41.  
4. Go to the “Troubleshooting” on page 52 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:  
• On the Windows 7 operating system, click Start ➙ Control Panel ➙ System and Security ➙  
System ➙ System Protection ➙ System Restore.  
If this does not correct the problem, continue with the next step.  
6. Run the diagnostic programs. See “Diagnostic programs” on page 67 for more information.  
• If the diagnostic programs detect a hardware failure, contact the Lenovo Customer Support Center.  
See Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and service” on page 69 for more information.  
• If you are unable to run the diagnostic programs, contact the Lenovo Customer Support Center. See  
Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and service” on page 69 for more information.  
• If the diagnostic programs do not detect a hardware failure, continue with the next step.  
7. Use an antivirus program to see if your computer has been infected by a virus. If the program detects a  
virus, remove the virus.  
8. If none of these actions solve the problem, seek technical assistance. See Chapter 11 “Getting  
information, help, and service” on page 69 for more information.  
Troubleshooting  
Use the troubleshooting information to find solutions to problems that have definite symptoms.  
If the symptom your computer is experiencing occurred immediately after you installed a new hardware  
option or new software, do the following before referring to the troubleshooting information:  
1. Remove the new hardware option or software. If you must remove the computer cover to remove a  
hardware option, make sure you review and follow the electrical safety information provided with your  
computer. For your safety, do not operate the computer with the cover removed.  
52 ThinkCentre User Guide  
 
     
2. Run the diagnostic programs to ensure your computer is operating correctly.  
3. Reinstall the new hardware option or software following the manufacturer's instructions.  
Select the problem your computer is experiencing from the following list:  
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
“Audio problems” on page 53  
“CD problems” on page 54  
“DVD problems” on page 55  
“Intermittent problems” on page 57  
“Keyboard, mouse, or pointing device problems” on page 57  
“Monitor problems” on page 59  
“Networking problems” on page 60  
“Option problems” on page 63  
“Performance and lockup problems” on page 64  
“Printer problems” on page 65  
“Serial port problems” on page 65  
“Software problems” on page 66  
“USB problems” on page 67  
Audio problems  
Select your symptom from the following list:  
•
•
“No audio in Windows” on page 53  
“An audio disc or AutoPlay-enabled disc does not automatically play when it is inserted into a drive”  
on page 54  
•
•
“Sound comes from one external speaker only” on page 54  
“No audio in DOS applications or games” on page 54  
No audio in Windows  
Symptom: No audio in Windows  
Actions:  
• If you are using powered external speakers that have an On/Off control, verify that the On/Off control is  
set to the On position and the speaker power cable is connected to a properly grounded, functional ac  
electrical outlet.  
• If your external speakers have a volume control, verify that the volume control is not set too low.  
• Double-click the speaker icon in the Windows notification area. A master volume-control window opens.  
Verify that the Mute settings are not checked and none of the volume settings is set too low.  
• Some models have a front audio panel you can use to adjust volume. If you have a front audio panel,  
verify that the volume is not set too low.  
• Verify that your external speakers (and headphones, if used) are connected to the correct audio connector  
on the computer. Most speaker cables are color-coded to match the connector.  
Note: When external-speaker or headphone cables are attached to the audio connector, the internal  
speaker, if present, is disabled. In most cases, if an audio adapter is installed in one of the expansion slots,  
the audio function built into the system board is disabled; use the audio jacks on the adapter.  
Chapter 10. Troubleshooting and diagnostics 53  
 
   
• Make sure that the program you are running is designed for use in the Microsoft Windows operating  
system. If the program is designed to run in DOS, the program does not use the Windows sound feature  
and must be configured to use SoundBlaster Pro or SoundBlaster emulation.  
• Verify that the audio device drivers are correctly installed. See Microsoft Windows help system for more  
information.  
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the diagnostic programs (see “Diagnostic programs” on  
page 67 for instructions). If you need technical assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help,  
and service” on page 69.  
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 54.  
Sound comes from one external speaker only  
Symptom: Sound comes from one external speaker only.  
Actions:  
• Ensure that the speaker cable is inserted completely into the connector on the computer.  
• Make sure the cable that attaches the left speaker to the right speaker is securely connected.  
• Double-click the speaker icon in the Windows notification area. A master volume-control window opens.  
Verify that the Balance settings are set correctly.  
If these actions do not correct the problem, you might have a failing speaker. Have the speaker serviced. If  
you need technical assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and service” on page 69.  
No audio in DOS applications or games  
Symptom: No audio in DOS applications or games  
Actions:  
• Make sure the DOS application or game is configured to use SoundBlaster Pro or SoundBlaster  
emulation. Refer to the documentation that comes with the application or game for instructions on  
setting sound-card settings.  
• If these actions do not correct the problem, run the diagnostic programs (see “Diagnostic programs” on  
page 67 for instructions). If you need technical assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and  
service” on page 69.  
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 55  
•
•
“A CD or DVD does not work” on page 55  
“Unable to use a startable (bootable) recovery medium, such as the Product Recovery CD, to start  
your computer” on page 55  
54 ThinkCentre User Guide  
 
       
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 55.  
If this does not correct the problem, follow the action for “A CD or DVD does not work” on page 55.  
A CD or DVD does not work  
Symptom: A CD or DVD does not work.  
Actions:  
• Verify that the disc is inserted correctly, with its label up.  
• Make sure that the disc you are using is clean. To remove dust or fingerprints, wipe the disc clean with a  
soft cloth from the center to the outside. Wiping a disc in a circular motion might cause loss of data.  
• Verify that the disc you are using is not scratched or damaged. Try inserting another disc that you know  
is good. If you cannot read from a known-good disc, you might have a problem with your CD or DVD  
drive or the cabling to your CD or DVD drive. Make sure that the power cable and signal cable are  
securely connected to the drive.  
Unable to use a startable (bootable) recovery medium, such as the Product Recovery  
CD, to start your computer  
Symptom: Unable to use a startable (bootable) recovery medium, such as the Product Recovery CD,  
to start your computer.  
Action: Make sure that the CD or DVD drive is in the startup sequence before the hard disk drive. Refer  
to your “Selecting or changing the startup device sequence” on page 43 for information on viewing and  
changing the startup sequence. Note that on some models the startup sequence is permanently set and  
cannot be changed.  
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the diagnostic programs (see “Diagnostic programs” on  
page 67 for instructions). If you need technical assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help,  
and service” on page 69.  
DVD problems  
Select your symptom from the following list:  
•
•
•
•
•
“Black screen instead of DVD video” on page 55  
“DVD movie will not play” on page 56  
“No audio or intermittent audio while playing DVD movie” on page 56  
“Playback is very slow or choppy” on page 56  
“Invalid disc or no disc found message” on page 56  
Black screen instead of DVD video  
Symptom: Black screen instead of DVD video  
Chapter 10. Troubleshooting and diagnostics 55  
 
         
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 diagnostic programs (see “Diagnostic programs” on  
page 67 for instructions). If you need technical assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help,  
and service” on page 69.  
DVD movie will not play  
Symptom: DVD movie will not play.  
Actions:  
• Make sure that the disc surface is clean and not scratched.  
• Check the disc or package for regional coding. You might need to purchase a disc with coding for  
the region where you are using your computer.  
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the diagnostic programs (see “Diagnostic programs” on  
page 67 for instructions). If you need technical assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help,  
and service” on page 69.  
No audio or intermittent audio while playing DVD movie  
Symptom: No audio or intermittent audio while playing DVD movie.  
Actions:  
• Check the volume control settings on your computer and on your speakers.  
• Make sure that the disc surface is clean and not scratched.  
• Check all cable connections to and from the speakers.  
• Use the DVD menu for the video to select a different audio track.  
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the diagnostic programs (see “Diagnostic programs” on  
page 67 for instructions). If you need technical assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help,  
and service” on page 69.  
Playback is very slow or choppy  
Symptom: Playback is very slow or choppy.  
Actions:  
• Disable any background programs, such as AntiVirus or Desktop Themes.  
• Ensure that video resolution is set to less than 1152 x 864.  
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the diagnostic programs (see “Diagnostic programs” on  
page 67 for instructions). If you need technical assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help,  
and service” on page 69.  
Invalid disc or no disc found message  
Symptom: Invalid disc or no disc found message  
Actions:  
56 ThinkCentre User Guide  
 
       
• Ensure that a DVD disc is in the drive with the shiny side of the disc facing down.  
• Ensure that video resolution is set to less than 1152 x 864.  
• On computers that have a CD-ROM or CD-RW drive in addition to a DVD-ROM drive, make sure that the  
DVD disc is in the drive labeled “DVD”.  
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the diagnostic programs (see “Diagnostic programs” on  
page 67 for instructions). If you need technical assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help,  
and service” on page 69.  
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 is not blocked (there is air flow around the fan), and the fan is  
working. If airflow is blocked or the fan is not working, the computer might overheat.  
• If SCSI devices are installed, verify that the last external device in each SCSI chain is terminated correctly.  
(See your SCSI documentation.)  
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the diagnostic programs (see “Diagnostic programs” on  
page 67 for instructions). If you need technical assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help,  
and service” on page 69.  
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 57  
“The mouse or pointing device does not work” on page 58  
“The pointer on the screen does not move smoothly with the mouse” on page 58  
“The fingerprint reader does not work” on page 58  
“The wireless keyboard does not work” on page 58  
All or some keys on the keyboard do not work  
Symptom: All or some keys on the keyboard do not work.  
Actions:  
• Verify that the keyboard cable is securely connected to the correct connector on the computer.  
• If you are using an Enhanced Performance USB keyboard and one or more of the Rapid Access buttons  
are the only keys that are not working, these buttons might have been disabled or have not been assigned  
to a function. Use the help system in the Enhanced Performance Customization Keyboard program to  
help diagnose problems with the Rapid Access buttons.  
• On the Windows 7 operating system, do the following:  
1. Click Start ➙ Control Panel.  
2. Click Hardware and Sound.  
3. Click Devices and Printers.  
4. Double-click USB Enhanced Performance Keyboard. The USB Enhanced Performance Keyboard  
Customization program starts.  
Chapter 10. Troubleshooting and diagnostics 57  
 
     
If these actions do not correct the problem, have the computer and keyboard serviced. See Chapter 11  
“Getting information, help, and service” on page 69 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 43.  
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the diagnostic programs (see “Diagnostic programs” on  
page 67 for instructions). If you need technical assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help,  
and service” on page 69.  
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 49 for  
instructions.  
The fingerprint reader does not work  
Symptom: The fingerprint reader does not work.  
Action: The following could cause the fingerprint reader not to operate properly:  
• Not enrolling your fingerprint correctly.  
• Scratching the surface of the reader with a hard, pointed object.  
• Scraping the surface of the reader with your nail or anything hard.  
• Using or touching the reader with a dirty finger.  
• The surface of your finger is very different from when you enrolled your fingerprint.  
The wireless keyboard does not work  
Symptom: The wireless keyboard does not work.  
Action: If the Transceiver Communications LED is on and the wireless Keyboard does not work, restart your  
computer. If restarting your computer does not solve the problem, verify that the following conditions are met:  
• The batteries are properly installed.  
• The batteries still retain their current.  
• The wireless Keyboard is located less than ten meters away from the transceiver.  
• The transceiver is fully installed.  
Action: If the Transceiver Communications LED is not on, reconnect the transceiver and the keyboard.  
58 ThinkCentre User Guide  
 
       
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 59  
“The monitor works when you turn on the computer, but goes blank after some period of computer  
inactivity” on page 59  
•
“The monitor works when you turn on the computer, but goes blank when you start some application  
programs” on page 59  
•
•
“The image appears to be flickering” on page 59  
“The image is discolored” on page 60  
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 69.  
The monitor works when you turn on the computer, but goes blank after some period  
of computer inactivity  
Symptom: The monitor works when you turn on the computer, but goes blank after some period of computer  
inactivity.  
Action: The computer is probably set for energy savings with the power-management feature. If the  
power-management feature is enabled, disabling it or changing the settings might solve the problem.  
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the diagnostic programs (see “Diagnostic programs” on  
page 67 for instructions). If you need technical assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help,  
and service” on page 69.  
The monitor works when you turn on the computer, but goes blank when you start  
some application programs  
Symptom: The monitor works when you turn on the computer, but goes blank when you start some  
application programs.  
Actions:  
• Make sure the monitor signal cable is securely connected to the monitor and the monitor connector on  
the computer. A loose cable can cause intermittent problems.  
• Verify that the necessary device drivers for the application programs are installed. Refer to the  
documentation for the affected application program to see if device drivers are required.  
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the diagnostic programs (see “Diagnostic programs” on  
page 67 for instructions). If you need technical assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help,  
and service” on page 69.  
The image appears to be flickering  
Symptom: The image appears to be flickering.  
Chapter 10. Troubleshooting and diagnostics 59  
 
         
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.  
• 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 69 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 69 for details.  
Networking problems  
The following are the most common networking problems. Select your networking problem from the  
following list:  
•
•
•
•
“Ethernet problems” on page 60  
“A wireless LAN problem” on page 62  
“A wireless WAN problem” on page 62  
“Bluetooth problems” on page 62  
For more information, see “Help and Support” on page 69.  
Ethernet problems  
For Ethernet problems, select your symptom from the following list:  
60 ThinkCentre User Guide  
 
     
•
•
•
“Your computer cannot connect to the network” on page 61  
“The adapter stops working for no apparent reason” on page 61  
“If your computer is a Gigabit Ethernet model and you use a speed of 1000 Mbps, the connection fails  
or errors occur” on page 62  
•
“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 62  
Your computer cannot connect to the network  
Symptom: Your computer cannot connect to the network.  
Actions: Make sure that:  
• The cable is installed properly.  
The network cable must be securely connected to both the Ethernet connector of your computer and  
the RJ45 connector of the hub. The maximum allowable distance from the computer to hub is 100  
meters. If the cable is connected and the distance is within acceptable limits but the problem persists, try  
a different cable.  
• The cable is installed properly.  
• You are using the correct device driver.  
On the Windows 7 operating system, do the following:  
1. Click Start ➙ Control Panel.  
2. Click Hardware and Sound.  
3. Click Device Manager. If you are prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, type the  
password or provide confirmation.  
4. If an exclamation mark is displayed next to an adapter name under Network adapters, you might not  
use the correct driver or the driver is not enabled. To update the driver, right-click the highlighted  
adapter.  
5. Click Update Driver Software, and then follow the instructions on the screen.  
• The switch port and the adapter have the same duplex setting.  
If you configured the adapter for full duplex, make sure the switch port is also configured for full duplex.  
Setting the wrong duplex mode can degrade performance, cause data loss, or result in lost connections.  
• You have installed all networking software that is necessary for your network environment.  
Check with your LAN administrator for the necessary networking software.  
The adapter stops working for no apparent reason  
Symptom: The adapter stops working for no apparent reason.  
Action: The network driver files may be corrupt or missing. Update the driver by referring to the “Solution”  
description for the procedure to make sure that the correct device driver is installed.  
The Wake on LAN feature is not working  
Symptom: The Wake on LAN (WOL) feature is not working.  
Actions:  
• Make sure that WOL is enabled in the BIOS Setup Utility program.  
• If it is, check with your LAN administrator for the necessary settings.  
Chapter 10. Troubleshooting and diagnostics 61  
 
   
If your computer is a Gigabit Ethernet model and you use a speed of 1000 Mbps, the connection  
fails or errors occur  
Symptom: If your computer is a Gigabit Ethernet model and you use a speed of 1000 Mbps, the connection  
fails or errors occur.  
Actions:  
• Use Category 5 wiring and make sure that the network cable is securely connected.  
• Connect to a 1000 BASE-T hub/switch (not 1000 BASE-X).  
If your computer is a Gigabit Ethernet model, it cannot connect to the network at 1000 Mbps. Instead,  
it connects at 100 Mbps  
Symptom: If your computer is a Gigabit Ethernet model, it cannot connect to the network at 1000 Mbps.  
Instead, it connects at 100 Mbps.  
Actions:  
• Try another cable.  
• Make sure that the link partner is set to auto-negotiate.  
• Make sure that the switch is 802.3ab-compliant (gigabit over copper).  
A wireless LAN problem  
Symptom: You cannot connect using the built-in wireless networking card.  
Actions:  
• Make sure that your wireless LAN driver is the latest version. Check the Web site and verify the driver  
version supported by Access Connections is the latest documented in the readme file.  
• Make sure that your computer is within range of a wireless access point.  
• Make sure that the wireless radio is enabled by double-clicking the Access Connections icon in the  
Windows notification area.  
Note: If your computer is preinstalled with the Windows 7 operating system, click Show hidden icons in  
the Windows notification area. The Access Connections icon is displayed. For more information about  
the icon, see the Help in Access Connections.  
• Check Network Name (SSID), and your encryption information. Use Access Connections to verify this  
case-sensitive information.  
A wireless WAN problem  
Message: Unauthorized WAN card is plugged in - Power off and remove the WAN card.  
Action: The WAN card is not supported on this computer. Remove it.  
Note: Some computer models do not have a wireless WAN.  
Bluetooth problems  
For Bluetooth problems, select your symptom from the following list:  
•
•
“Sound does not come from the Bluetooth headphone” on page 63  
“PIM items sent from the Windows 7 operating system cannot be received correctly” on page 63  
62 ThinkCentre User Guide  
 
         
Sound does not come from the Bluetooth headphone  
Symptom: Sound does not come from the Bluetooth headset/headphone but comes from the local speaker  
even though the headset/headphone is connected using Headset profile or AV profile.  
Action: Do the following:  
1. Exit the application that uses the sound device (for example, Windows Media Player).  
2. Open the Control Panel by clicking Start ➙ Control Panel.  
3. Click Hardware and Sound ➙ Sound .  
4. Select the Playback tab.  
5. If you are using Headset profile, select Bluetooth Hands-free Audio and click the Set Default button. If  
you are using AV profile, select Stereo Audio and click the Set Default button.  
6. Click OK to close the Sound window.  
PIM items sent from the Windows 7 operating system cannot be received correctly  
Symptom: Personal Information Manager (PIM) items sent from the Windows 7 operating system cannot be  
received correctly into the address book of any other Bluetooth-enabled device.  
Action: The Windows 7 operating system sends PIM items in XML format, but most Bluetooth-enabled  
devices handle PIM items in vCard format. If another Bluetooth-enabled device can receive a file through  
Bluetooth, a PIM item sent from the Windows 7 operating system might be saved as a file with the extension  
contact.  
Option problems  
Use this information to diagnose problems with Lenovo hardware options that do not have their own  
troubleshooting information.  
Select your symptom from the following list:  
•
•
“An option that was just installed does not work” on page 63  
“An option that previously worked does not work now” on page 63  
An option that was just installed does not work  
Symptom: An option that was just installed does not work.  
Action: Verify that:  
• The option is designed for your computer.  
• You followed the installation instructions supplied with the option and the installation instructions provided  
with your computer, and all option files (such as device drivers, if required) are installed correctly.  
• You have not loosened other installed options or cables.  
• If the option is an adapter, you have provided enough hardware resources for the adapter to function  
correctly. See the documentation supplied with the adapter (as well as the documentation for any other  
installed adapters) to determine the resources required for each adapter.  
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the diagnostic programs (see “Diagnostic programs” on  
page 67 for instructions). If you need technical assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help,  
and service” on page 69.  
An option that previously worked does not work now  
Symptom: An option that previously worked does not work now.  
Chapter 10. Troubleshooting and diagnostics 63  
 
         
Actions:  
• Verify that all option hardware and cable connections are secure.  
• If the option comes with its own test instructions, use those instructions to test the option.  
• If the failing option is a SCSI option, verify that:  
– The cables for all external SCSI options are connected correctly.  
– The last option in each SCSI chain, or the end of the SCSI cable, is terminated correctly.  
– All external SCSI options are turned on. External SCSI options must be turned on before the computer  
is turned on. For more information, see your SCSI documentation.  
• Verify that the option and any required device drivers are installed correctly.  
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the diagnostic programs (see “Diagnostic programs” on  
page 67 for instructions). If you need technical assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help,  
and service” on page 69.  
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 64  
“Excessive number of fragmented files” on page 65  
Make a selection from the above list to find out more about the corrective actions you can take.  
Insufficient free hard disk drive space  
Symptom: Insufficient free hard disk drive space  
The Windows operating system will slow down and might produce errors if the hard disk drive gets too full.  
To check the amount of free space on the Windows 7 operating system, do the following:  
1. Click Start ➙ Computer.  
2. Right-click your C drive entry and then click Properties. The amount of free disk space is displayed.  
Actions to free up disk space:  
• On the Windows 7 operating system, do one or all of the following:  
–
1. Click Start ➙ Computer.  
2. Right-click your C drive entry and then click Properties.  
3. Click Disk Cleanup.  
4. A list of unnecessary file categories is displayed. Select each file category you want to delete, and  
then click OK.  
–
1. Click Start ➙ Control Panel.  
2. Click Programs.  
3. Click Turn Windows features on or off.  
4. A list of optional Windows components is displayed. Follow the instructions on the screen.  
–
1. Click Start ➙ Computer.  
64 ThinkCentre User Guide  
 
   
2. Right-click your C drive entry and then click Properties.  
3. Click Disk Cleanup.  
4. Click Clean up system files.  
5. Click the More Options tab.  
6. In the Programs and Features area, click the Clean up button.  
7. A list of installed applications is displayed. Select the application you want to remove. Click  
Uninstall/Change.  
• Clean out your Inbox, Sent Items, and Deleted Items folders from your e-mail application. The folder  
names and procedures vary depending on your e-mail application. If you need assistance, see the  
help system for your e-mail application.  
Excessive number of fragmented files  
Symptom: Excessive number of fragmented files  
Action: Run the Windows Disk Defragmenter program.  
Note: Depending on the size of the hard disk drive and amount of data currently stored on the hard disk  
drive, the disk defragmentation process might take up to several hours to complete.  
• On the Windows 7 operating system, do the following:  
1. Close any programs that are currently running and close any open windows.  
2. Click Start ➙ Computer.  
3. Right-click your C drive entry and then click Properties.  
4. Click the Tools tab.  
5. Click Defragment Now, then click Continue.  
6. Click Defragment Now again to start a disk-defragmentation process.  
Printer problems  
Symptom: The printer does not work.  
Actions: Verify that:  
1. The printer is turned on and is online.  
2. Paper is loaded correctly.  
3. The printer signal cable is securely connected to the correct parallel, serial, or USB connector on the  
computer.  
Note: Non-IEEE-approved printer signal cables might cause unpredictable problems.  
1. Any device drivers and other software that came with the printer are correctly installed.  
2. You have assigned the printer port correctly in your operating system, application program, or BIOS  
settings. For more information about BIOS settings, see Chapter 7 “Using the Setup Utility program”  
on page 41.  
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 69.  
Serial port problems  
Use this information to troubleshoot the serial port and devices attached to the serial port.  
Chapter 10. Troubleshooting and diagnostics 65  
 
     
Symptom: Serial port cannot be accessed.  
Actions:  
• Make sure the serial cable is securely connected to the serial port on the computer and to the serial device.  
If the serial device has its own power cord, make sure it is attached to a properly grounded electrical outlet.  
• If the serial device has its own On/Off switch, make sure it is in the On position.  
• If the serial device has an Online switch, make sure it is in the Online position.  
• If the serial device is a printer, make sure paper is loaded correctly.  
• Verify that any software supplied with the serial device is correctly installed. Refer to the documentation  
for the serial-device option.  
• Make sure that the serial-port adapter, if you added one, is properly installed and firmly seated.  
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the diagnostic programs (see “Diagnostic programs” on  
page 67 for instructions). If you need technical assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help,  
and service” on page 69.  
Software problems  
Select your symptom from the following list:  
•
•
“When using a sort feature, dates do not sort in the correct order” on page 66  
“Software does not work as expected” on page 66  
When using a sort feature, dates do not sort in the correct order  
Symptom: When using a sort feature, dates do not sort in the correct order.  
Action: Some software developed before the year 2000 used only the last two digits of a year to sort  
dates, always assuming the first two digits were 19. Consequently, these programs sort dates out of order.  
Check with your software manufacturer to see if any updates are available. Many software manufacturers  
make updates available from the World Wide Web.  
Software does not work as expected  
Symptom: Software does not work as expected.  
Actions:  
• Most software programs have built-in help systems that provide instructions for most tasks. If you are  
having difficulty performing a specific task within a software program, refer to the help system for that  
program. Help systems are typically accessible from a menu or button in the program, and frequently  
from the F1 key.  
• If you 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.  
66 ThinkCentre User Guide  
 
     
• 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.  
• 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 69 for details.  
USB problems  
Symptom: The USB connectors cannot be accessed.  
Actions:  
• Make sure the USB cable is securely connected to the USB connector and to the USB device. If the USB  
device has its own power cord, make sure it is attached to a properly grounded electrical outlet.  
• If the USB device has its own On/Off switch, make sure it is in the On position.  
• If the USB device has an Online switch, make sure it is in the Online position.  
• If the USB device is a printer, make sure paper is loaded correctly.  
• Make sure any device drivers or other software supplied with the USB device is correctly installed.  
Refer to the documentation for the USB device.  
• Reset the device by detaching and reattaching the USB connector.  
If these actions do not correct the problem, run the diagnostic programs to test the USB connector (see  
“Diagnostic programs” on page 67 for instructions). If the USB device came with its own diagnostics, run  
those diagnostics against the USB device. If you need technical assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting  
information, help, and service” on page 69.  
Diagnostic programs  
Diagnostic programs are used to test hardware components of your computer. Diagnostic programs can  
also report operating-system-controlled settings that interfere with the correct operation of your computer.  
You can use the preinstalled Lenovo ThinkVantage Toolbox program to diagnose computer problems, if your  
computer is running the Windows operating system.  
Notes:  
1. You can also download the PC-Doctor for DOS diagnostic program from http://www.lenovo.com/support.  
See “PC-Doctor for DOS” on page 68 for detailed information.  
2. If you are unable to isolate and repair the problem yourself after running the programs, save and print  
the log files created by the programs. You will need the log files when you speak to a Lenovo technical  
support representative.  
Chapter 10. Troubleshooting and diagnostics 67  
 
     
Lenovo ThinkVantage Toolbox  
The Lenovo ThinkVantage Toolbox program helps you maintain your computer, improve computing security,  
diagnose computer problems, get familiar with the innovative technologies provided by Lenovo, and get  
more information about your computer. You can use the diagnostics feature of the Lenovo ThinkVantage  
Toolbox program to test devices, diagnose computer problems, create bootable diagnostic media, update  
system drivers, and view system information.  
• To run the Lenovo ThinkVantage Toolbox program on the Windows 7 operating system, click Start ➙ All  
Programs ➙ Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools ➙ System Health and Diagnostics. Follow the instructions  
on the screen.  
Follow the instructions on the screen. For additional information, refer to the Lenovo ThinkVantage Toolbox  
help system.  
PC-Doctor for DOS  
You can also download the latest version of the PC-Doctor for DOS diagnostic program from  
http://www.lenovo.com/support. The PC-Doctor for DOS diagnostic program runs independently of the  
Windows operating system. Use the PC-Doctor for DOS diagnostic program if you are unable to start the  
Windows operating system or if the two diagnostic programs preinstalled on your computer have not  
been successful in isolating a possible problem. You can run the PC-Doctor for DOS diagnostic program  
from a diagnostic disc that you created.  
Creating a diagnostic disc  
This section provides instructions on how to create a diagnostic disc.  
To create a diagnostic disc, do the following:  
1. Download a self-starting bootable CD/DVD image (known as an ISO image) of the diagnostic program  
from:  
http://www.lenovo.com/support  
2. Use any CD/DVD burning software to create a diagnostic disc with the ISO image.  
Running the diagnostic program from a diagnostic disc  
This section provides instructions on how to run the diagnostic program from a diagnostic disc that you  
created.  
To run the diagnostic program from a diagnostic disc that you created, do the following:  
1. Make sure the optical drive you want to use is set as the first boot device in the startup device sequence.  
See “Selecting or changing the startup device sequence” on page 43.  
2. Make sure the computer is turned on and then insert the disc into the optical drive. The diagnostic  
program opens.  
Note: You can insert the disc into the optical drive when you are setting the startup device sequence.  
However, if you insert the disc into the optical drive when you have already entered the operating  
system, you need to restart the computer to access the diagnostic program.  
3. Follow the instructions on the screen to select the diagnostic test you want to run.  
Note: For additional help, press the F1 key.  
4. Remove the diagnostic disc from the optical drive when you complete the diagnostic process.  
68 ThinkCentre User Guide  
 
     
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 ThinkVantage Technologies, and accessing  
user manuals.  
To access the Windows Help and Support information system, click Start ➙ Help and Support.  
Safety and Warranty  
The ThinkCentre Safety and Warranty Guide that is provided with your computer contains information on  
safety, setup, warranty, and notices. Read and understand all safety information before using this product.  
Lenovo Web site (http://www.lenovo.com)  
The Lenovo Web site provides up-to-date information and services to help you buy, upgrade, and maintain  
your computer. You can also do the following:  
• Shop for desktop and notebook computers, monitors, projectors, upgrades and accessories for your  
computer, and special offers.  
• Purchase additional services, such as support for hardware, operating systems, application programs,  
network setup and configuration, and custom installations.  
• Purchase upgrades and extended hardware repair services.  
• Download the latest device drivers and software updates for your computer model.  
• Access the online manuals for your products.  
• Access the Lenovo Limited Warranty.  
© Copyright Lenovo 2011  
69  
 
                           
• 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 at:  
http://www.lenovo.com/support  
This portal is updated with the latest information about the following subjects:  
Download & Drivers  
Warranty  
Download drivers, flash BIOS, and update your software.  
Check your warranty status and upgrade your warranty.  
Technical Support  
Click Need Help? for self-help tips to help diagnose a  
problem.  
ThinkVantage  
Learn more about ThinkVantage software to improve  
productivity and reduce cost.  
Lenovo Forums  
Search the community knowledge base for your computer  
to share and discover information with other users.  
Read or print any publications related to your product.  
User Guides & Manuals  
Help and service  
This section contains information about obtaining help and service.  
Using the documentation and diagnostic programs  
If you experience a problem with your computer, see Chapter 10 “Troubleshooting and diagnostics”  
on page 51. For information on additional resources to help you troubleshoot your computer problem,  
see “Information resources” on page 69.  
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 set of diagnostic programs that help you identify hardware problems. For  
instructions on using the diagnostic programs, see “Diagnostic programs” on page 67.  
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.  
70 ThinkCentre User Guide  
 
             
• 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 ThinkCentre Safety and Warranty 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 ThinkCentre Safety and Warranty 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; upgraded or extended  
hardware repair services; and custom installations. Service availability and service name might vary by  
Chapter 11. Getting information, help, and service 71  
 
       
country or region. For more information about these services, go to the Lenovo Web site at:  
http://www.lenovo.com  
72 ThinkCentre User Guide  
 
Appendix A. Notices  
Lenovo may not offer the products, services, or features discussed in this document in all countries. Consult  
your local Lenovo representative for information on the products and services currently available in your  
area. Any reference to a Lenovo product, program, or service is not intended to state or imply that only that  
Lenovo product, program, or service may be used. Any functionally equivalent product, program, or service  
that does not infringe any Lenovo intellectual property right may be used instead. However, it is the user's  
responsibility to evaluate and verify the operation of any other product, program, or service.  
Lenovo may have patents or pending patent applications covering subject matter described in this  
document. The furnishing of this document does not give you any license to these patents. You can send  
license inquiries, in writing, to:  
Lenovo (United States), Inc.  
1009 Think Place - Building One  
Morrisville, NC 27560  
U.S.A.  
Attention: Lenovo Director of Licensing  
LENOVO PROVIDES THIS PUBLICATION “AS IS” WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS  
OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF NON-INFRINGEMENT,  
MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. Some jurisdictions do not allow  
disclaimer of express or implied warranties in certain transactions, therefore, this statement may not apply  
to you.  
This information could include technical inaccuracies or typographical errors. Changes are periodically  
made to the information herein; these changes will be incorporated in new editions of the publication.  
Lenovo may make improvements and/or changes in the product(s) and/or the program(s) described in this  
publication at any time without notice.  
The products described in this document are not intended for use in implantation or other life support  
applications where malfunction may result in injury or death to persons. The information contained in this  
document does not affect or change Lenovo product specifications or warranties. Nothing in this document  
shall operate as an express or implied license or indemnity under the intellectual property rights of Lenovo  
or third parties. All information contained in this document was obtained in specific environments and is  
presented as an illustration. The result obtained in other operating environments may vary.  
Lenovo may use or distribute any of the information you supply in any way it believes appropriate without  
incurring any obligation to you.  
Any references in this publication to non-Lenovo Web sites are provided for convenience only and do not in  
any manner serve as an endorsement of those Web sites. The materials at those Web sites are not part of  
the materials for this Lenovo product, and use of those Web sites is at your own risk.  
Any performance data contained herein was determined in a controlled environment. Therefore, the result  
obtained in other operating environments may vary significantly. Some measurements may have been  
made on development-level systems and there is no guarantee that these measurements will be the same  
on generally available systems. Furthermore, some measurements may have been estimated through  
extrapolation. Actual results may vary. Users of this document should verify the applicable data for their  
specific environment.  
© Copyright Lenovo 2011  
73  
 
   
Trademarks  
The following terms are trademarks of Lenovo in the United States, other countries, or both:  
Lenovo  
The Lenovo logo  
Rescue and Recovery  
ThinkVantage  
Microsoft, Windows are trademarks of the Microsoft group of companies.  
Celeron, Intel, Intel Core and Pentium are trademarks of Intel Corporation in the United States, other  
countries, or both.  
Other company, product, or service names may be trademarks or service marks of others.  
74 ThinkCentre User Guide  
 
   
Appendix B. Regulatory information  
Export classification notice  
This product is subject to the United States Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and has an Export  
Classification Control Number (ECCN) of 4A994.b. It can be re-exported except to any of the embargoed  
countries in the EAR E1 country list.  
Television output notice  
The following notice applies to models that have the factory-installed television-output feature.  
This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by method claims of certain U.S.  
patents and other intellectual property rights owned by Macrovision Corporation and other rights owners.  
Use of this copyright protection technology must be authorized by Macrovision Corporation, and is intended  
for home and other limited viewing uses only unless otherwise authorized by Macrovision Corporation.  
Reverse engineering or disassembly is prohibited.  
Electronic emissions notices  
The following information refers to Lenovo personal computer machine types 1654, 1664, 1665, 1677, 1738,  
1739, 1741, 1761, 1762, 1763, 1782, 1837, 1938, 1942, 1962, and 1966.  
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  
© Copyright Lenovo 2011  
75  
 
         
Industry Canada Class B emission compliance statement  
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.  
Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.  
European Union - Compliance to the Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive  
This product is in conformity with the protection requirements of EU Council Directive 2004/108/EC on the  
approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to electromagnetic compatibility. Lenovo cannot  
accept responsibility for any failure to satisfy the protection requirements resulting from a non-recommended  
modification of the product, including the installation of option cards from other manufacturers.  
This product has been tested and found to comply with the limits for Class B Information Technology  
Equipment according to European Standard EN 55022. The limits for Class B equipment were derived  
for typical residential environments to provide reasonable protection against interference with licensed  
communication devices.  
German Class B compliance statement  
Deutschsprachiger EU Hinweis:  
Hinweis für Geräte der Klasse B EU-Richtlinie zur Elektromagnetischen Verträglichkeit  
Dieses Produkt entspricht den Schutzanforderungen der EU-Richtlinie 2004/108/EG (früher 89/336/EWG) zur  
Angleichung der Rechtsvorschriften über die elektromagnetische Verträglichkeit in den EU-Mitgliedsstaaten  
und hält die Grenzwerte der EN 55022 Klasse B ein.  
Um dieses sicherzustellen, sind die Geräte wie in den Handbüchern beschrieben zu installieren und zu  
betreiben. Des Weiteren dürfen auch nur von der Lenovo empfohlene Kabel angeschlossen werden.  
Lenovo übernimmt keine Verantwortung für die Einhaltung der Schutzanforderungen, wenn das Produkt  
ohne Zustimmung der Lenovo verändert bzw. wenn Erweiterungskomponenten von Fremdherstellern ohne  
Empfehlung der Lenovo gesteckt/eingebaut werden.  
Deutschland:  
Einhaltung des Gesetzes über die elektromagnetische Verträglichkeit von Betriebsmitteln  
Dieses Produkt entspricht dem „Gesetz über die elektromagnetische Verträglichkeit von Betriebsmitteln“  
EMVG (früher „Gesetz über die elektromagnetische Verträglichkeit von Geräten“). Dies ist die Umsetzung der  
EU-Richtlinie 2004/108/EG (früher 89/336/EWG) in der Bundesrepublik Deutschland.  
Zulassungsbescheinigung laut dem Deutschen Gesetz über die elektromagnetische Verträglichkeit  
von Betriebsmitteln, EMVG vom 20. Juli 2007 (früher Gesetz über die elektromagnetische  
Verträglichkeit von Geräten), bzw. der EMV EG Richtlinie 2004/108/EC (früher 89/336/EWG), für  
Geräte der Klasse B.  
Dieses Gerät ist berechtigt, in Übereinstimmung mit dem Deutschen EMVG das EG-Konformitätszeichen  
- CE - zu führen. Verantwortlich für die Konformitätserklärung nach Paragraf 5 des EMVG ist die Lenovo  
(Deutschland) GmbH, Gropiusplatz 10, D-70563 Stuttgart.  
76 ThinkCentre User Guide  
 
Informationen in Hinsicht EMVG Paragraf 4 Abs. (1) 4:  
Das Gerät erfüllt die Schutzanforderungen nach EN 55024 und EN 55022 Klasse B.  
Korea Class B compliance statement  
Japanese VCCI Class B statement  
Japan compliance statement for products which connect to the power mains with rated current  
less than or equal to 20 A per phase  
Lenovo product service information for Taiwan  
Keyboard and mouse compliance statement for Taiwan  
Additional regulatory information  
For additional regulatory information, refer to the ThinkCentre Regulatory Notice shipped with your computer.  
Depending on the configuration of your computer and the country or region where the computer was  
purchased, you might have received additional printed regulatory notices. All regulatory notices are available  
on the Lenovo Support Web site in electronic format. To access electronic copies of the documentation, go  
to http://www.lenovo.com/support and click User Guides and Manuals.  
Appendix B. Regulatory information 77  
 
 
78 ThinkCentre User Guide  
 
Appendix C. WEEE and recycling information  
Important information for the European Directive 2002/96/EC  
EU Only  
The Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) mark applies only to countries within the European  
Union (EU) and Norway. Appliances are labeled in accordance with European Directive 2002/96/EC  
concerning waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE). The Directive determines the framework for  
the return and recycling of used appliances as applicable throughout the European Union. This label is  
applied to various products to indicate that the product is not to be thrown away, but rather reclaimed upon  
end of life per this Directive. Users of electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) with the WEEE marking per  
Annex IV of the WEEE Directive must not dispose of end of life EEE as unsorted municipal waste, but use the  
collection framework available to them for the return, recycle, recovery of WEEE and 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/lenovo/environment.  
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/lenovo/environment/recycling  
Collecting and recycling a disused Lenovo computer or monitor  
© Copyright Lenovo 2011  
79  
 
     
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/social_responsibility/us/en/sustainability/ptb_japan.html.  
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/social_responsibility/us/en/sustainability/ptb_japan.html.  
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.  
80 ThinkCentre User Guide  
 
Index  
A
front  
connectors, controls, indicators  
8
a rescue medium, creating and using 36  
Administrator, password 42  
antivirus software  
audio subsystem  
6
1
G
getting  
help 69  
information 69  
service 69  
B
backup and recovery operations 34  
basic troubleshooting 51  
H
C
help  
cable lock, security 26  
changing  
and service 70  
getting 69  
password 42  
Help and Support 69  
startup device sequence 43  
cleaning an optical mouse 49  
connector 10  
I
connectors  
important safety information iii  
information  
getting 69  
important safety iii  
resources 69  
rear  
connectors, controls, indicators  
front  
considerations, passwords 42  
creating  
and using a rescue medium 36  
creating and using  
recovery media 33  
9
8
safety 69  
warranty 69  
Input/Output (I/O) features  
2
internal drives  
1
customer support center 70  
K
D
keyboard, replacing 29  
deleting a password 42  
Description 10  
device drivers 32  
L
diagnostics programs, using 70  
diagnostics, troubleshooting 51  
DisplayPort out connector 10  
documentation, using 70  
drivers, device 32  
Lenovo ThinkVantage Toolbox 68  
Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools 69  
Lenovo Welcome 5, 69  
M
E
media, creating and using recovery media 33  
environment, operating  
4
Microphone connector 10  
mouse, replacing 29  
Ethernet  
Ethernet connector 10  
exiting, Setup Utility 44  
1
expansion  
external options, installing 29  
2
N
notices 73  
F
O
features  
1
flashing the BIOS 45  
operations, backup and recovery 34  
© Copyright Lenovo 2011  
81  
 
 
optical mouse  
cleaning 49  
Setup Utility, exiting 44  
software  
recovering 33  
solving recovery problems 38  
starting the Setup Utility program 41  
startup device 43  
sequence, changing 43  
temporary, selecting 43  
system  
P
password  
Administrator 42  
considerations 42  
Power-On Password 42  
setting, changing, deleting 42  
passwords, using 41  
management  
2
programs 45  
physical specifications  
power  
4
T
features  
2
power-on self-test (POST) 45  
Power-On, Password 42  
temporary startup device 43  
the BIOS, updating (flashing) 45–46  
trademarks 74  
troubleshooting, basic 51  
troubleshooting, diagnostics 51  
programs, updating system 45  
purchasing additional services 71  
R
U
updating  
rear connectors  
9
recovering  
software 33  
recovery  
operations, backup and 34  
problems, solving 38  
recovery media, creating and using 33  
Rescue and Recovery 33  
workspace, Rescue and Recovery 35  
Rescue and Recovery workspace 35  
resources, information 69  
(flashing) the BIOS 45  
system programs 45  
updating (flashing) the BIOS 46  
USB connector 10  
using  
a rescue medium, creating and 36  
diagnostic programs 70  
documentation 70  
other services 71  
passwords 41  
Setup Utility 41  
S
safety iii  
V
safety information 69  
security  
video subsystem  
1
cable lock 26  
enabling or disabling 43  
viewing and changing settings 41  
features  
2
selecting  
W
startup device 43  
temporary startup device 43  
Serial port 10  
service  
warranty information 69  
workspace, backup and recovery 35  
and help 70  
customer support center 70  
getting 69  
services  
other 71  
purchasing additional 71  
setting  
password 42  
settings  
changing 41  
viewing 41  
Setup Utility 41  
Setup Utility program, starting 41  
82 ThinkCentre User Guide  
 
 
Part Number: 0B03427  
Printed in  
(1P) P/N: 0B03427  
*0B03427*  
 

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