ThinkCentre User Guide
Note Before using this information and the product it supports, be sure to read and understand the ThinkCentre Safety and Warranty Guide and “Notices,” on page 61. Second Edition (May 2009) © Copyright Lenovo 2009. All rights reserved. LENOVO products, data, computer software, and services have been developed exclusively at private expense and are sold to governmental entities as commercial items as defined by 48 C.F.R. 2.101 with limited and restricted rights to use, reproduction and disclosure.
Contents Important safety information . . . . . . v Chapter 1. Product overview . . . . . . 1 Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Software overview . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Software provided with your Windows operating system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Locating connectors on the front of your computer 6 Locating connectors on the rear of your computer 7 Locating components . . . . . . . . . .
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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 ThinkCentre Safety and Warranty Guide that you received with this product for the latest safety information. Reading and understanding this safety information reduces the risk of personal injury and or damage to your product.
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Chapter 1. Product overview This chapter provides an introduction to the features and options that are available for your computer. You can expand the capabilities of your computer by adding memory modules, drives, or adapter cards. When installing or replacing an option, use these instructions along with the instructions that come with the option. Important: Before you install or replace any option, be sure to read and understand the “Important safety information” first.
Video subsystem Integrated graphics for a VGA (Video Graphics Array) connector and DisplayPort connector Audio subsystem v Audio line-in connector, audio line-out connector, and microphone connector on the rear panel v High Definition (HD) with ADI 1882 Audio Codec v Microphone connector and headphone connector on the front panel v Mono internal speaker (some models) Connectivity v 10/100/1000 Mbps integrated Ethernet controller v PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) V.
Power v 130-watt power adapter v Automatic 50/60 Hz input frequency switching v Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) support Security features v Computrace v Cover presence switch (also called intrusion switch, some models) v Diskette drive and hard disk drive I/O control v Hard Disk User Password v Keyboard with fingerprint reader (some models, see the ThinkVantage® Productivity Center program for more information) v Power-On Password (POP) and Privileged Access Password (PAP) for BIOS access
Specifications This section lists the physical specifications for your computer. Dimensions Width: 275 mm (10.83 inches) Height: 80 mm (3.15 inches) Depth: 238 mm (9.37 inches) Weight Maximum configuration as shipped: 4.18 kg (9.
Software overview This section describes the software preinstalled on the computer models that have an internal hard disk drive and an operating system from Lenovo. Software provided with your Windows operating system This section describes the Windows applications included with your computer. Software provided by Lenovo The following software applications are provided by Lenovo to help you improve productivity and reduce the cost associated with maintaining your computer.
PC-Doctor for Windows PE The PC-Doctor for Windows PE diagnostic program is preinstalled on your hard disk drive. It is part of the Rescue and Recovery workspace on each Lenovo computer to diagnose hardware problems and report operating-system-controlled settings that can cause hardware failures. Use the PC-Doctor for Windows PE if you are unable to start the Windows operating system or if the Lenovo System Toolbox has not been successful in isolating a possible problem.
Locating connectors on the rear of your computer Figure 2 shows the location 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.
8 User Guide Connector Description Audio line-in connector Used to receive audio signals from an external audio device, such as a stereo system. When you attach an external audio device, a cable is connected between the audio line-out connector of the device and the audio line-in connector of the computer.
Locating components To open the computer cover, see “Opening the computer cover” on page 12. Figure 3 shows the location of the various components in your computer. Figure 3. Component locations 1 2 3 4 Optical drive Front bezel Hard disk drive (some models) System fan assembly 5 6 7 8 Heat sink Battery Memory slots (2) Internal speaker (some models) Chapter 1.
Locating parts on the system board The system board (sometimes called the planar or motherboard) is the main circuit board in your computer. It provides basic computer functions and supports a variety of devices. Figure 4 shows the location of the parts on the system board. Figure 4.
Chapter 2. Installing options and replacing hardware This chapter provides instructions for installing options and replacing hardware for your computer. You can expand the capabilities of your computer by adding memory modules, adapter cards, or drives. When installing or replacing an option, use these instructions along with the instructions that come with the option.
Installing external options External speakers, a printer, or a scanner can be connected to your computer. For some external options, you must install additional software in addition to making the physical connection.
5. Carefully lift and position the computer upside down as shown in 6. 6. Pivot the cover-release button 1 on the rear of the computer and then open the computer cover as shown. Figure 5. Opening the computer cover Installing or replacing a memory module Attention Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information” in the ThinkCentre Safety and Warranty Guide that came with your computer.
3. If you are replacing an old memory module, open the retaining clips and remove the memory module being replaced as shown. Figure 6. Removing the memory module 4. Insert the notched end 2 of the new memory module into the slot 1 . Press the memory module firmly and pivot the memory module until it snaps into place. Make sure that the memory module is firmly fixed in the slot and does not move easily. Figure 7.
Replacing the hard disk drive Attention Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information” in the ThinkCentre Safety and Warranty Guide that came with your computer. To obtain a copy of the ThinkCentre Safety and Warranty Guide, go to: http://www.lenovo.com/support This section provides instructions on how to replace the hard disk drive if your computer has one.
7. To install the new hard disk drive into the plastic bracket, flex the bracket and align pin 1 , pin 2 , pin 3 , and pin 4 on the bracket with the holes in the hard disk drive. Do not touch the circuit board 5 on the bottom of the hard disk drive. Figure 9. Installing the hard disk drive into the bracket 8. Connect the signal cable and the power cable to the rear of the new hard disk drive. 9. Slide the new hard disk drive into the hard disk drive bay until it snaps into position. 10.
2. Remove the front bezel by releasing the two tabs and pivoting the bezel forward to remove it completely. Figure 10. Removing the front bezel 3. Disconnect the signal cable and the power cable from the rear of the optical drive. 4. Press the optical drive lock button to remove the optical drive out of the front of the computer. Figure 11. Removing the optical drive 5. Remove the optical drive retainer from the failing optical drive and install it on the side of the new optical drive. Figure 12.
6. Slide the new optical drive into the drive bay until it snaps into position. Figure 13. Installing the optical drive 7. Connect the signal cable and the power cable to the optical drive. 8. To reinstall the front bezel, align the plastic tabs on the bottom of the bezel with the corresponding holes in the chassis, and then pivot the bezel inward until it snaps into position. 9. Go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 30.
3. Remove the old battery. Figure 14. Removing the old battery 4. Install a new battery. Figure 15. Installing a new battery 5. Reconnect all the cables to the system board and close the computer cover. See “Completing the parts replacement” on page 30. Note: When the computer is turned on for the first time after battery replacement, an error message might be displayed. This is normal after replacing the battery. 6. Turn on the computer and all attached devices. 7.
3. Remove the four screws that secure the heat sink to the system board. Note: Carefully remove the four screws from the system board to avoid any possible damage to the system board. The four screws cannot be removed from the heat sink and fan assembly. Figure 16. Removing the heat sink 4. Lift the failing heat sink off the system board. Notes: a. You might have to gently twist the heat sink to free it from the microprocessor. b. Do not touch the thermal grease while handling the heat sink. 5.
Replacing the microprocessor Attention Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information” in the ThinkCentre Safety and Warranty Guide that came with your computer. To obtain a copy of the ThinkCentre Safety and Warranty Guide, go to: http://www.lenovo.com/support This section provides instructions on how to replace the microprocessor. CAUTION: The heat sink and microprocessor might be very hot.
6. Lift the microprocessor straight up and out of the socket. 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 1 on one corner of the microprocessor or note the orientation of the notches 2 on the microprocessor. This is important when installing the new microprocessor on the system board. c. Touch only the sides of the microprocessor.
8. Remove the protective cover 2 that protects the gold contacts on the new microprocessor 1 . 9. Hold the new microprocessor and align the notches on it with the tabs in the microprocessor socket, or align the small triangle on one corner with the corresponding beveled corner of the microprocessor socket. 10. Lower the new microprocessor straight down into the microprocessor socket on the system board. 11.
3. Press inward on the two side tabs and then pivot the system board to release it from the chassis. Figure 19. Releasing the system board 4. Place the system board on a clean and flat surface. 5. Locate the adapter card slot. See “Locating parts on the system board” on page 10. 6. Rotate the adapter card retainer to the open position and remove the adapter card being replaced by pulling it out of the adapter card slot. Figure 20. Removing the adapter card 7.
Replacing the internal speaker Attention Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information” in the ThinkCentre Safety and Warranty Guide that came with your computer. To obtain a copy of the ThinkCentre Safety and Warranty Guide, go to: http://www.lenovo.com/support This section provides instructions on how to replace the internal speaker. To 1. 2. 3. replace the internal speaker: Open the computer cover.
This section provides instructions on how to replace the front audio and USB assembly. To replace the front audio and USB assembly: 1. Open the computer cover. See “Opening the computer cover” on page 12. 2. Remove the front bezel by releasing the two tabs and pivoting the bezel forward. Figure 22. Removing the front bezel 3. Disconnect the front audio and USB assembly cables from the system board and note the cables routing. See “Locating parts on the system board” on page 10.
4. Remove the screw that secures the front audio and USB assembly to the chassis. Figure 23. Removing the front audio and USB assembly 5. Remove the failing front audio and USB assembly from the chassis. 6. Install the new front audio and USB assembly into the chassis and secure it with the screw. 7. Connect the front audio and USB assembly cables to the system board. 8.
5. Connect the new AC power adapter cable to the power adapter connector on the chassis and the electrical outlet. Figure 24. Connecting the AC power adapter 6. Go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 30.
Replacing the keyboard Attention Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information” in the ThinkCentre Safety and Warranty Guide that came with your computer. To obtain a copy of the ThinkCentre Safety and Warranty Guide, go to: http://www.lenovo.com/support This section provides instructions on how to replace the keyboard. To replace the keyboard: 1.
2. Unplug all power cords from electrical outlets. 3. Locate the connector for the mouse. Note: Your mouse might be connected to a standard mouse connector 1 or a USB connector 2 . Depending on where your mouse is connected, see “Locating connectors on the rear of your computer” on page 7 or “Locating connectors on the front of your computer” on page 6. Figure 26. Mouse connectors 4. Disconnect the failing mouse cable from the computer. 5.
2. Make sure that the cables are routed correctly before closing the computer cover. Figure 27. Cable routing Important Correctly route all power supply cables to avoid interference when closing the computer cover. Keep cables clear of the hinges and sides of the computer chassis. 3. Close the computer cover as shown. Figure 28. Closing the computer cover 4. If a computer cable lock is installed, lock the computer. 5. Reconnect the external cables and power cords to the computer.
6. To update your configuration, see Chapter 4, “Using the Setup Utility,” on page 43. Note: In most areas of the world, Lenovo requires the return of the defective Customer Replaceable Unit (CRU). Information about this will come with the CRU or will come a few days after the CRU arrives. Obtaining device drivers You can obtain device drivers for operating systems that are not preinstalled at: http://www.lenovo.
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 a security 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 a security cable directly from Lenovo by searching on Kensington at: http://www.
Erasing lost or forgotten passwords (clearing CMOS) This section contains instructions on erasing some lost or forgotten passwords, such as a user password. For more information about lost or forgotten passwords, go to the ThinkVantage Productivity Center program. To access the ThinkVantage Productivity Center program, click Start → All Programs → ThinkVantage → Productivity Center. To erase lost or forgotten passwords: 1. Open the computer cover. See “Opening the computer cover” on page 12. 2.
Chapter 3. Recovery information This chapter will help you get familiar with recovery solutions provided by Lenovo.
v Windows Vista: use Product Recovery discs to restore your computer to the original factory contents only. When using Product Recovery discs on Windows XP, you are given the option to enter the Rescue and Recovery workspace and choose from a variety of recovery operations. When using Product Recovery discs on Windows Vista, you are prompted to insert your Product Recovery discs and are guided through the process of restoring from original factory contents only.
v On recordable CDs or DVDs (a recordable CD or DVD drive is required for this option) After you have backed up your hard disk drive, you can restore the complete contents of the hard disk drive, restore selected files only, or restore only the Windows operating system and applications. To perform a backup operation using the Rescue and Recovery program, do the following: 1. From the Windows desktop, click Start → All Programs → ThinkVantage → Rescue and Recovery. The Rescue and Recovery program opens. 2.
Attention: If you restore the hard disk drive from a Rescue and Recovery backup or restore the hard disk drive to the factory contents, 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 in the Rescue and Recovery workspace to copy files from your hard disk drive to other media.
3. Click OK. 4. Follow the instructions on the screen. The following list explains how Product Recovery discs are used on different operating systems: v Windows XP: use Product Recovery discs to restore the original factory contents, perform a custom factory recovery, or to perform other rescue and recovery operations such as rescuing individual files. v Windows Vista: use rescue media to perform all recovery operations except custom factory recovery and original factory contents recovery.
release the F11 key. You will also be able to access the Windows environment after the repair operation finishes. If an error message appears during the repair operation and the repair operation cannot be completed, you might have a problem with the partition that contains the Rescue and Recovery workspace. Use your rescue media to access the Rescue and Recovery workspace. For information about creating and using rescue media, see “Creating and using rescue media” on page 38.
Setting a rescue device in the startup sequence Before you start the Rescue and Recovery program from a CD, DVD, USB hard disk drive, or any external device, you must first change the startup sequence in the Setup Utility. To view or change the startup sequence, do the following: 1. With the computer turned off, repeatedly press and release the F1 key while you turn on the computer. 2. When the logo screen appears, or you hear a series of beeps, release the F1 key. 3.
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Chapter 4. Using the Setup Utility 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. If your computer is already on when you start this procedure, shut down the operating system and turn off the computer. 2.
Password considerations A password can be any combination of up to 12 alphabetic and numeric characters. For security reasons, it is recommended to use a strong password that cannot be easily compromised.
Enabling or disabling a device This section provides information on how to enable or disable user access to the following devices: Serial ATA External SATA Port Legacy Diskette A (some models) When this feature is set to Disabled, all devices connected to the SATA connectors (such as hard disk drives or the optical drive) are disabled and will not be displayed in the system configuration. When this feature is set to Disabled, the device connected to the External SATA connector cannot be accessed.
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 43. 2. Select Startup → Startup Sequence. See the information displayed on the right side of the screen. 3. Select the devices for the Primary Startup Sequence, the Automatic Startup Sequence, and the Error Startup Sequence. 4.
Chapter 5. Updating system programs This chapter contains information about updating POST/BIOS and how to recover from a POST/BIOS update failure. Using system programs System programs are the basic layer of software built into your computer. They include the power-on self-test (POST), the basic input/output system (BIOS) code, and the Setup Utility program. POST is a set of tests and procedures that are performed each time you turn on your computer.
8. Type in the seven character machine type/model of your computer and then press Enter. 9. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the update. Updating (flashing) BIOS from your operating system Note: Due to the constant improvements made to the Web site, Web page content (including the links referenced in the following procedure) is subject to change. 1. Go to: http://www.lenovo.com/support 2. Locate the downloadable files for your machine type as follows: a.
13. Reconnect any cables that were disconnected. 14. Close the computer cover and reconnect the power cords for the computer and monitor to electrical outlets. Refer to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 30. 15. Turn on the computer to restart the operating system. Chapter 5.
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Chapter 6. Troubleshooting and diagnostics This chapter describes some basic troubleshooting and diagnostic programs. If your computer problem is not described here, see Chapter 7, “Getting information, help, and service,” on page 57 for additional troubleshooting resources. Basic troubleshooting The following table provides information to help you troubleshoot your computer problem. Symptom Action The computer does not start when you press the power button.
Symptom Action The keyboard does not work. The computer does not respond to the keyboard. Verify that: v The computer is turned on. v The monitor is turned on and the brightness and contrast controls are set correctly. v The keyboard is securely connected to the keyboard connector on the computer. v No keys are stuck. If you cannot correct the problem, have the computer serviced.
Diagnostic programs Diagnostic programs are used to test hardware components of your computer and report operating-system-controlled settings that can cause hardware failures. There are two diagnostic programs preinstalled on your computer: v Lenovo System Toolbox (used when the Windows operating system is running) v PC-Doctor for Windows PE (used when the Windows operating system does not start) Notes: 1.
5. The diagnostic program opens automatically. Select the diagnostic test you want to run. Press the F1 key for additional help. 6. Follow the instructions on the screen. Note: Rescue media includes PC-Doctor for Windows PE. For more information about rescue media, see “Creating and using rescue media” on page 38. PC-Doctor for DOS You can also download the latest version of the PC-Doctor for DOS diagnostic program from: http://www.lenovo.
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. Non-optical mouse The non-optical mouse uses a ball to navigate the pointer.
8. If the rollers are dirty, clean them by using a cotton swab soaked in isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol. Turn the rollers with your finger and continue swabbing them until all the dirt is removed. Be sure the rollers are still centered in their channels after you clean them. 9. Remove any fibers from the swab that might be remaining on the rollers. 10. Replace the ball and the retainer ring. Twist the retainer ring to the locked position. 11. Reconnect the mouse cable to the computer. 12.
Chapter 7. Getting information, help, and service This chapter contains information about help, service, and technical assistance for products manufactured by Lenovo. Information resources This section describes how to access useful resources relating to your computing needs. Note: The Online Books folder, ThinkVantage Productivity Center, Lenovo Welcome, and Access Help are only available on computers that have an internal hard disk drive and preinstalled software from Lenovo.
Note: The ThinkVantage Technologies are only available on select Lenovo computers. To access the ThinkVantage Productivity Center program, click Start → All Programs → ThinkVantage → Productivity Center. 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 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 6, “Troubleshooting and diagnostics,” on page 51. For information on additional resources to help you troubleshoot your computer problem, see “Information resources” on page 57.
If possible, be at your computer when you call.
Appendix. 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.
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. Television output notice The following notice applies to models that have the factory-installed television-output feature.
Index A E access help 58 adapter card, replacing 23 advanced settings 46 antivirus software, updating audio line-in connector 8 audio line-out connector 8 audio subsystem 2 environment, operating 4 Ethernet 2 Ethernet connector 8 exiting, Setup Utility 46 expansion 2 external options, installing 12 6 F B failure, recovering from POST/BIOS 48 features 1 flashing BIOS 47 folder, books online 57 front audio and USB assembly, replacing 25 front connectors 6 backup and recovery operations 36 basic troubl
L Lenovo System Toolbox 53 Lenovo Web site 58 Lenovo Welcome 58 locating components 9 M media, creating and using rescue memory module installing 13 system board 13 Microphone connector 8 mouse cleaning 54 non-optical 55 optical mouse 54 mouse connector 8 mouse, replacing 29 38 S N non-optical mouse 55 notice, television output notices 61 62 O online books folder 57 opening the computer cover 12 operations, backup and recovery optical drive, replacing 16 optical mouse 54 36 P parts replacement, comp
T television output notice 62 temporary startup device 45 ThinkVantage productivity center trademarks 62 troubleshooting, basic 51 troubleshooting, diagnostics 51 57 U updating (flashing) BIOS 47 antivirus software 6 system programs 47 updating (flashing) BIOS 48 USB connector 8 using diagnostic programs 59 documentation 59 other services 60 passwords 43 recovery repair diskette, creating and using rescue media, creating and 38 Setup Utility 43 39 V VGA monitor connector 8 video subsystem 2 viewing and
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Part Number: 53Y9936 Printed in USA (1P) P/N: 53Y9936