® 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.
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: •...
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. •...
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.
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• Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) The Advanced Configuration and Power Interface is an open industry standard for configuration and power management. • 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.
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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.
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.
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.
The ThinkVantage Password Manager program automatically captures and fills in authentication information for Windows applications and Web sites. Notes: 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.
Locating connectors, controls, and indicators on the front of your computer Figure 1 “Front connector, control, and indicator locations” on page 7 shows the locations of the connectors, controls, and indicators on the front of your computer. Figure 1. Front connector, control, and indicator locations Hard disk drive activity indicator USB connector Power indicator...
Locating connectors and parts on the rear of your computer Figure 2 “Rear connector and part locations” on page 8 shows the locations of the connectors and parts on the rear of your computer. Some connectors on the rear of your computer are color-coded to help you determine where to connect the cables on your computer.
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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. Microphone connector Used to attach a microphone to your computer when you want to record sound or if you use speech-recognition software.
Locating components Figure 3 “Component locations” on page 10 shows the locations of the various components in your computer. To remove the computer cover and gain access to the inside of the computer, see “Removing the computer cover” on page 30. Figure 3.
Locating parts on the system board Figure 4 “System board part locations” on page 11 shows the locations of the parts on the system board. Figure 4. System board part locations Microprocessor Front panel connector (for connecting LED indicators and power switch) Microprocessor fan connector USB connectors (2) Memory slots (2)
Locating internal drives Internal drives are devices that your computer uses to read and store data. You can add drives to your computer to increase storage capacity and enable your computer to read other types of media. Internal drives are installed in bays. In this manual, the bays are referred to as bay 1, bay 2, and so on. When installing or replacing an internal drive, it is important to note the type and size of the drive that you can install or replace in each bay and correctly connect the cables to the drive installed.
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.
Lenovo provides a program that enables you to create recovery discs. For details about creating recovery discs, see “Creating recovery media” on page 51. 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”...
“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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
If you relocate your computer to a country or region that uses an electrical outlet style different from the type you are currently using, you will have to purchase either electrical plug adapters or new power cords. You can order power cords directly from Lenovo. For power cord information and part numbers, go to: http://www.lenovo.com/powercordnotice...
Locking the computer cover Locking the computer cover helps prevent unauthorized people from gaining access to the inside of your computer. Your computer comes with a padlock loop so that the computer cover cannot be removed when a padlock is installed. Figure 7.
Attaching a cable lock A cable lock can be used to secure devices, such as the keyboard and the mouse, by locking the device cables to your computer. The cable lock attaches to the cable lock slots on the rear of your computer. See “Locating connectors and parts on the rear of your computer”...
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 9.
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.
Attention: Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information” on page v. Notes: 1. Use only computer parts provided by Lenovo. 2. When installing or replacing an option, use the appropriate instructions in this section along with the instructions that come with the option.
Removing the computer cover Attention: Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information” on page v. This section provides instructions on how to remove the computer cover. CAUTION: Turn off the computer and wait three to five minutes to let the computer cool before removing the computer cover.
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To remove and reinstall the front bezel, do the following: 1. Turn off the computer and disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets. 2. Remove the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 30. 3. Remove the front bezel by releasing the three plastic tabs on the left side and pivoting the front bezel outward.
What to do next: • To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section. • To complete the installation or replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 48. Installing or replacing a PCI card Attention: Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”...
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Figure 14. Removing the PCI card Notes: a. The card fits tightly into the card slot. If necessary, alternate moving each side of the card a small amount until it is removed from the card slot. b. If the card is held in place by a retaining latch, press the card retaining latch as shown to disengage the latch.
7. Pivot the card latch to the closed position to secure the PCI card. Figure 15. Installing a PCI card 8. Reinstall the screw to secure the PCI card latch in place. What to do next: • To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section. •...
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• If you are replacing an old memory module, open the retaining clips and gently pull the memory module out of the memory slot. Figure 16. Removing a memory module • If you are installing a memory module, open the retaining clips of the memory slot into which you want to install the memory module.
7. Position the new memory module over the memory slot. Make sure that the notch on the memory module aligns correctly with the slot key on the system board. Push the memory module straight down into the slot until the retaining clips close. Figure 18.
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4. Remove the three screws that secure the optical drive. Then, slide the optical drive out of the front of the computer. Figure 19. Removing the optical drive 5. Slide the new optical drive into the drive bay from the front and align the screw holes in the new optical drive with the corresponding holes in the drive bay.
6. Connect one end of the signal cable to the rear of the new optical drive and the other end to an available SATA connector on the system board. See “Locating parts on the system board” on page 11. Then, locate an available five-wire power connector and connect it to the rear of the new optical drive.
5. Install a new battery. Figure 23. Installing a new battery 6. Reinstall the computer cover and connect the cables. See “Completing the parts replacement” on page 48. Note: When the computer is turned on for the first time after replacing the battery, an error message might be displayed.
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6. Follow this sequence to remove the four screws that secure the heat sink and fan assembly to the system board: a. Partially remove screw , then fully remove screw , and then fully remove screw b. Partially remove screw , then fully remove screw , and then fully remove screw Note: Carefully remove the four screws from the system board to avoid any possible damage to the...
Replacing the power supply assembly Attention: Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information” on page v. This section provides instructions on how to replace the power supply assembly. Although there are no moving parts in your computer after the power cord has been disconnected, the following warnings are required for your safety and proper Underwriters Laboratories (UL) certification.
8. Install and tighten the four screws to secure the power supply assembly. Note: Use only screws provided by Lenovo. 9. Reconnect the power supply assembly cables to the system board and each of the drives.
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This section provides instructions on how to replace the microprocessor. CAUTION: The heat sink and microprocessor might be very hot. Turn off the computer and wait three to five minutes to let the computer cool before removing the computer cover. To replace the microprocessor, do the following: 1.
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Figure 27. Removing the microprocessor Notes: a. Your microprocessor and socket might look different from the one illustrated. b. Note the orientation of the microprocessor in the socket. You can either look for the small triangle on one corner of the microprocessor or note the orientation of the notches on the microprocessor.
• To complete the replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 48. Replacing the primary hard disk drive Attention: Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information” on page v. This section provides instructions on how to replace the primary hard disk drive.
6. Slide the new hard disk drive into the hard disk drive bay and align the screw holes in the new hard disk drive with the corresponding holes in the drive bay. Then, install the four screws to secure the new hard disk drive in place.
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To replace the front audio and USB assembly, do the following: 1. Turn off the computer and disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets. 2. Remove the computer cover. See “Removing the computer cover” on page 30. 3. Remove the front bezel. See “Removing and reinstalling the front bezel” on page 30. 4.
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 v. This section provides instructions on how to replace the USB keyboard or mouse. To replace the USB keyboard or mouse, do the following: 1.
9. To update your configuration, refer to Chapter 7 “Using the Setup Utility program” on page 59. Note: In most areas of the world, Lenovo requires the return of the defective Customer Replaceable Unit (CRU). Information about this will come with the CRU or will come a few days after the CRU arrives.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
• 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.
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It is important to create a rescue medium and a set of recovery media as early as possible and store them in a safe place for future use. Chapter 6 Recovery information...
• Have at least eight characters in length • Contain at least one alphabetic character and one numeric character • Setup Utility program password is not case sensitive • Not be your name or your user name • Not be a common word or a common name •...
6. Turn on the computer and leave it on for approximately 10 seconds. Then, turn off the computer by holding the power switch for approximately five seconds. 7. Repeat step 1 through step 3. 8. Move the Clear CMOS /Recovery jumper back to the standard position (pin 1 and pin 2). 9.
1. Start the Setup Utility program. See “Starting the Setup Utility program” on page 59. 2. From the Setup Utility program main menu, select Startup. 3. Select the devices for the Primary Startup Sequence, the Automatic Startup Sequence, and the Error Startup Sequence.
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.
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.
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14. Turn on the computer to restart the operating system. Chapter 8 Updating system programs...
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.
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.
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.
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.
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...
See Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and service” on page 91 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 91 for more information.
Select the problem your computer is experiencing from the following list: • “Audio problems” on page 73 • “CD problems” on page 74 • “DVD problems” on page 75 • “Intermittent problems” on page 77 • “Keyboard, mouse, or pointing device problems” on page 77 •...
• 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 87 for instructions). If you need technical assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and service”...
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. •...
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• 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 87 for instructions). If you need technical assistance, see Chapter 11 “Getting information, help, and service”...
• 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 87 for instructions).
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.
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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 79 • “The monitor works when you turn on the computer, but goes blank after some period of computer inactivity”...
• 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.
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• “The adapter stops working for no apparent reason” on page 81 • “If your computer is a Gigabit Ethernet model and you use a speed of 1000 Mbps, the connection fails or errors occur” on page 82 • “If your computer is a Gigabit Ethernet model, it cannot connect to the network at 1000 Mbps. Instead, it connects at 100 Mbps”...
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.
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: •...
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: –...
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.
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.
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. •...
3. 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.
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.
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.
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 87. 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...
Service availability and service name might vary by country or region. For more information about these services, go to the Lenovo Web site at: http://www.lenovo.com...
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.
Trademarks The following terms are trademarks of Lenovo in the United States, other countries, or both: Lenovo The Lenovo logo Rescue and Recovery ThinkCentre ThinkVantage Microsoft and Windows are trademarks of the Microsoft group of companies. Intel, Intel Core, Celeron, and Pentium are trademarks of Intel Corporation in the United States, other countries, or both.
• 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.
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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. ThinkCentre User Guide...
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.
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...
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.
Customer participation is important to minimize any potential effects of batteries and accumulators on the environment and human health due to the potential presence of hazardous substances. For proper collection and treatment, go to: http://www.lenovo.com/lenovo/environment Appendix C. WEEE and recycling statements...