ThinkCentre
User Guide
Machine Types: 3261, 3263, 3264, 3267, 3273, 3856, 4004, and 4156
Note: Before using this information and the product it supports, be sure to read and understand the “Important safety information” on page v and Appendix A “Notices” on page 121.
Third Edition (September 2012)
© Copyright Lenovo 2012.
LIMITED AND RESTRICTED RIGHTS NOTICE: If data or software is delivered pursuant a General Services Administration “GSA” contract, use, reproduction, or disclosure is subject to restrictions set forth in Contract No. GS-35F-05925.
Contents
Important safety information . . . . . . |
v |
Service and upgrades . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
v |
Static electricity prevention. . . . . . . . . . . |
v |
Power cords and power adapters . . . . . . . . |
vi |
Extension cords and related devices . . . . . . . |
vi |
Plugs and outlets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
vii |
External devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
vii |
General battery notice . . . . . . . . . . . . |
vii |
Rechargeable battery notice . . . . . . . . . |
viii |
Heat and product ventilation . . . . . . . . . |
viii |
Operating environment . . . . . . . . . . . . |
ix |
Modem safety information . . . . . . . . . . . |
ix |
Laser compliance statement . . . . . . . . . . |
x |
Power supply statement . . . . . . . . . . . . |
x |
Cleaning and maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . |
x |
Additional important information. . . . . . . . . |
x |
Chapter 1. Product overview . . . . . . |
1 |
Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
1 |
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
4 |
Lenovo programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
4 |
Accessing Lenovo programs on the Windows |
|
7 operating system . . . . . . . . . . . . |
4 |
Accessing Lenovo programs on the Windows |
|
8 operating system . . . . . . . . . . . . |
6 |
An introduction to Lenovo programs . . . . . |
6 |
Locations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
8 |
Locating connectors, controls, and indicators |
|
on the front of your computer . . . . . . . . |
9 |
Locating connectors on the rear of your |
|
computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
10 |
Locating components . . . . . . . . . . |
11 |
Locating parts on the system board . . . . |
12 |
Machine type and model label. . . . . . . |
13 |
Chapter 2. Using your computer . . . |
15 |
Frequently asked questions . . . . . . . . . |
15 |
Accessing Control Panel on the Windows 8 |
|
operating system. . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
15 |
Using the keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
16 |
Using Windows shortcut keys . . . . . . . |
16 |
Using the blue ThinkVantage button . . . . |
16 |
Using a fingerprint reader . . . . . . . . |
16 |
Using the wheel mouse . . . . . . . . . . . |
17 |
Adjusting audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
17 |
About your computer audio . . . . . . . . |
17 |
Setting the volume from the desktop . . . . |
17 |
Setting the volume from Control Panel . . . |
18 |
Using CDs and DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . |
18 |
Handling and storing CD and DVD media . . |
18 |
Playing a CD or DVD . . . . . . . . . . |
19 |
Recording a CD or DVD . . . . . . . . . |
19 |
Chapter 3. You and your computer . |
. |
21 |
Accessibility and comfort . . . . . . . . . |
. |
21 |
Arranging your workspace . . . . . . . |
. |
21 |
Comfort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
. |
21 |
Glare and lighting . . . . . . . . . . . |
. |
22 |
Air circulation . . . . . . . . . . . . |
. |
22 |
Electrical outlets and cable lengths . . . . |
. |
22 |
Registering your computer . . . . . . . . . |
. |
23 |
Moving your computer to another country or |
|
|
region . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
. |
23 |
Voltage-selection switch . . . . . . . . |
. |
23 |
Replacement power cords . . . . . . . |
. |
24 |
Chapter 4. Security . . . . . . . . . . |
25 |
Security features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
25 |
Attaching an integrated cable lock . . . . . . . |
26 |
Using passwords. . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
26 |
BIOS passwords . . . . . . . . . . . . |
26 |
Windows passwords . . . . . . . . . . |
27 |
Configuring the fingerprint reader . . . . . . . |
27 |
Using and understanding firewalls . . . . . . . |
27 |
Protecting data against viruses . . . . . . . . |
27 |
Chapter 5. Installing or replacing |
|
hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
29 |
Handling static-sensitive devices . . . . . . . |
29 |
Installing or replacing hardware . . . . . . . . |
29 |
Installing external options . . . . . . . . |
29 |
Installing or removing the vertical stand . . . |
30 |
Installing or removing the VESA mount |
|
bracket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
31 |
Removing the computer cover. . . . . . . |
33 |
Installing or replacing a memory module . . . |
35 |
Replacing the optical drive . . . . . . . . |
37 |
Replacing the secondary hard disk drive. . . |
42 |
Replacing the battery . . . . . . . . . . |
48 |
Replacing the ac power adapter . . . . . . |
49 |
Replacing the ac power adapter bracket. . . |
51 |
Replacing the power switch board . . . . . |
53 |
Replacing the heat sink . . . . . . . . . |
55 |
Replacing the microprocessor . . . . . . . |
58 |
Replacing the hard disk drive bracket . . . . |
60 |
© Copyright Lenovo 2012 |
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Replacing the WiFi card module . . . . . . |
64 |
Installing or removing the rear WiFi antenna . |
66 |
Installing or removing two rear WiFi |
|
antennas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
67 |
Replacing the system fan. . . . . . . . . |
69 |
Replacing the internal speaker. . . . . . . |
72 |
Replacing the keyboard or mouse . . . . . |
74 |
Completing the parts replacement . . . . . |
75 |
Chapter 6. Recovery information . . . |
79 |
Recovery information for the Windows 7 operating |
|
system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
79 |
Creating and using recovery media . . . . . |
79 |
Performing backup and recovery operations . |
80 |
Using the Rescue and Recovery workspace . |
81 |
Creating and using a rescue medium . . . . |
82 |
Reinstalling preinstalled applications and |
|
device drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
83 |
Reinstalling software programs . . . . . . |
84 |
Reinstalling device drivers . . . . . . . . |
84 |
Solving recovery problems . . . . . . . . |
84 |
Recovery information for the Windows 8 operating |
|
system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
85 |
Chapter 7. Using the Setup Utility |
|
program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
87 |
Starting the Setup Utility program . . . . . . . |
87 |
Viewing and changing settings . . . . . . . . |
87 |
Using passwords. . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
87 |
Password considerations . . . . . . . . . |
88 |
Power-On Password . . . . . . . . . . |
88 |
Administrator Password . . . . . . . . . |
88 |
Hard Disk Password. . . . . . . . . . . |
88 |
Setting, changing, and deleting a password . |
88 |
Erasing lost or forgotten passwords (clearing |
|
CMOS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
89 |
Enabling or disabling a device . . . . . . . . |
89 |
Selecting a startup device . . . . . . . . . . |
90 |
Selecting a temporary startup device . . . . |
90 |
Selecting or changing the startup device |
|
sequence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
90 |
Enabling ErP compliance mode . . . . . . . . |
90 |
Exiting the Setup Utility program . . . . . . . |
91 |
Chapter 8. Updating system |
|
programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
93 |
Using system programs . . . . . . . . . . . |
93 |
Updating (flashing) the BIOS from a disc . . . . |
93 |
Updating (flashing) the BIOS from your operating |
|
system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
94 |
Recovering from a POST/BIOS update failure . . |
94 |
Chapter 9. Preventing problems . . . |
95 |
Keeping your computer current . . . . . . . . |
95 |
Getting the latest device drivers for your |
|
computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
95 |
Updating your operating system . . . . . . |
95 |
Using System Update . . . . . . . . . . |
96 |
Cleaning and maintenance . . . . . . . . . . |
96 |
Basics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
96 |
Cleaning your computer . . . . . . . . . |
97 |
Good maintenance practices . . . . . . . |
98 |
Moving your computer . . . . . . . . . . . |
98 |
Chapter 10. Troubleshooting and |
|
diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
99 |
Basic troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . |
99 |
Troubleshooting procedure . . . . . . . . . . |
100 |
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
100 |
Audio problems . . . . . . . . . . . . |
101 |
CD problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
102 |
DVD problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
103 |
Intermittent problems . . . . . . . . . . |
105 |
Keyboard, mouse, or pointing device |
|
problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
105 |
Monitor problems. . . . . . . . . . . . |
107 |
Networking problems . . . . . . . . . . |
108 |
Option problems . . . . . . . . . . . . |
111 |
Performance and lockup problems . . . . . |
112 |
Printer problems . . . . . . . . . . . . |
113 |
Serial port problems. . . . . . . . . . . |
114 |
Software problems . . . . . . . . . . . |
114 |
USB problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
115 |
Lenovo Solution Center . . . . . . . . . . . |
116 |
Chapter 11. Getting information, help, |
|
and service . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
117 |
Information resources . . . . . . . . . . . . |
117 |
Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools . . . . . . . . |
117 |
Lenovo Welcome . . . . . . . . . . . . |
117 |
Help and Support. . . . . . . . . . . . |
117 |
Safety and Warranty. . . . . . . . . . . |
117 |
Lenovo Web site . . . . . . . . . . . . |
117 |
Lenovo Support Web site. . . . . . . . . |
118 |
Help and service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
118 |
Using the documentation and diagnostic |
|
program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
118 |
Calling for service. . . . . . . . . . . . |
118 |
Using other services . . . . . . . . . . |
119 |
Purchasing additional services . . . . . . |
119 |
Appendix A. Notices. . . . . . . . . |
121 |
Trademarks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
122 |
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Appendix B. Regulatory
information . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
Export classification notice . . . . . . . . . . |
123 |
Electronic emissions notices . . . . . . . . . |
123 |
Federal Communications Commission |
|
Declaration of Conformity . . . . . . . . |
123 |
Additional regulatory information . . . . . . . |
125 |
Appendix C. WEEE and recycling information . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
Important WEEE information . . . . . . . . . 127 Recycling information . . . . . . . . . . . . 127 Recycling information for Brazil . . . . . . . . 128 Battery recycling information for Taiwan . . . . . 128
Battery recycling information for the European
Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129
Appendix D. Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive (RoHS) . . . . 131
China RoHS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131 Turkish RoHS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131 Ukraine RoHS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131 India RoHS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
Appendix E. ENERGY STAR model information . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
© Copyright Lenovo 2012 |
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iv ThinkCentre User Guide
CAUTION:
Before using this manual, be sure to read and understand all the related safety information for this product. Refer to the information in this section and the safety information in the Safety, Warranty, and Setup Guide that you received with this product. Reading and understanding this safety information reduces the risk of personal injury and damage to your product.
If you no longer have a copy of the Safety, Warranty, and Setup Guide, you can obtain a Portable Document Format (PDF) version from the Lenovo® Support Web site at http://www.lenovo.com/support. The Lenovo Support Web site also provides the Safety, Warranty, and Setup Guide and this User Guide in additional languages.
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, 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
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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.
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.
To prevent possible overheating, do not cover the power adapter with clothing or other objects when the power adapter is plugged into an electrical outlet.
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
vi ThinkCentre User Guide
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.
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.
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.
DANGER
Personal computers manufactured by Lenovo might contain a coin cell battery and a rechargeable battery pack to the system. Batteries supplied by Lenovo for use with your product have been tested for compatibility and should only be replaced with approved parts.
Never attempt to open or service any battery. Do not crush, puncture, or incinerate batteries or short circuit the metal contacts. Do not expose the battery to water or other liquids. Only recharge the battery pack strictly according to instructions included in the product documentation.
Battery abuse or mishandling can cause the battery to overheat, which can cause gasses or flame to “vent” from the battery pack or coin cell. If your battery is damaged, or if you notice any discharge from your battery or the buildup of foreign materials on the battery leads, stop using the battery and obtain a replacement from the battery manufacturer.
Batteries can degrade when they are left unused for long periods of time. For some rechargeable batteries (particularly Lithium Ion batteries), leaving a battery unused in a discharged state could
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increase the risk of a battery short circuit, which could shorten the life of the battery and also can pose a safety hazard. Do not let rechargeable Lithium-Ion batteries completely discharge or store these batteries in a discharged state.
DANGER
Do not attempt to disassemble or modify the battery pack. Attempting to do so can cause an explosion, or liquid leakage from the battery pack. A battery pack other than the one specified by Lenovo, or a disassembled or modified battery pack is not covered by the warranty.
If the rechargeable battery pack is incorrectly replaced, there is danger of an explosion. The battery pack contains a small amount of harmful substances. To avoid possible injury:
•Replace only with a battery of the type recommended by Lenovo.
•Keep the battery pack away from fire.
•Do not expose it to water or rain.
•Do not attempt to disassemble it.
•Do not short-circuit it.
•Keep it away from children.
•Do not drop the battery pack.
Do not put the battery pack in trash that is disposed of in landfills. When disposing of the battery, comply with local ordinances or regulations.
The battery pack should be stored at room temperature, charged to approximately 30 to 50% of capacity. We recommend that battery pack be charged about once per year to prevent overdischarge.
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
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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.
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.
The optimal environment in which to use your computer is 10°C-35°C (50°F-95°F) with humidity ranging between 35% and 80%. If your computer is stored or transported in temperatures less than 10°C (50°F), allow the cold computer to rise slowly to an optimal operating temperature of 10°C-35°C (50°F-95°F) before use. This process could take two hours in extreme conditions. Failure to allow your computer to rise to an optimal operating temperature before use could result in irreparable damage to your computer.
If possible, place your computer in a well-ventilated and dry area without direct exposure to sunshine.
Keep electrical appliances such as an electric fan, radio, high-powered speakers, air conditioner, and microwave oven away from your computer because the strong magnetic fields generated by these appliances can damage the monitor and data on the hard disk drive.
Do not place any beverages on top of or beside the computer or other attached devices. If liquid is spilled on or in the computer or an attached device, a short circuit or other damage might occur.
Do not eat or smoke over your keyboard. Particles that fall into your keyboard can cause damage.
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.
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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.
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.
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.
CAUTION:
Do not put any object on top of the computer or the optical drive box.
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xii ThinkCentre User Guide
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.
This section introduces the computer features. The information covers a variety of models.
To view the information about your specific model, do one of the following:
•Go into the Setup Utility program by following the instructions in Chapter 7 “Using the Setup Utility program” on page 87. Then, select Main System Summary to view the information.
•On the Microsoft® Windows® 7 operation system, click Start, right-click Computer, and select Properties to view the information.
•On the Windows 8 operating system, move your cursor to the top-right or bottom-right corner of the screen to display the charms. Then click Settings PC info to view the information.
Microprocessor
Your computer comes with one of the following microprocessors (internal cache size varies by model type):
•Intel® Core™ i3 microprocessor
•Intel Core i5 microprocessor
•Intel Celeron® microprocessor
•Intel Pentium® microprocessor
Memory
Your computer supports up to two double data rate 3 small outline dual inline memory modules (DDR3 SODIMMs).
Drives
•External optical drive: DVD-ROM or DVD-R (optional)
•Serial Advanced Technology Attachment (SATA) hard disk drive
•Solid-state drive (optional)
Video subsystem
• Integrated graphics for a Video Graphics Array (VGA) connector and a DisplayPort connector
Audio subsystem
•Integrated high-definition (HD) audio
•Microphone connector and headphone connector on the front panel
•Internal speaker
Connectivity
•100/1000 Mbps integrated Ethernet controller
•WiFi card module (optional)
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• WiFi with Bluetooth module (optional)
System management features
•Ability to store power-on self-test (POST) hardware test results
•Desktop Management Interface (DMI)
Desktop Management Interface provides a common path for users to access information about all aspects of a computer, including processor type, installation date, attached printers and other peripherals, power sources, and maintenance history.
•ErP compliance mode
The energy-related products directive (ErP) compliance mode reduces the consumption of electricity when your computer is in standby or off mode. For more information, see “Enabling ErP compliance mode” on page 90.
•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.
Input/Output (I/O) features
•Five Universal Serial Bus (USB) 2.0 connectors (two on the front panel and three on the rear panel)
•One DisplayPort connector
•One Ethernet connector
•One optional port (for installing a serial port, a USB 2.0 connector, or an optional WiFi card module antenna)
•One VGA monitor connector
•Two audio connectors on the front panel (microphone connector and headphone connector)
For more information, see “Locating connectors, controls, and indicators on the front of your computer” on page 9 and “Locating connectors on the rear of your computer” on page 10.
Expansion
•One hard disk drive bay
•One mini PCI Express card slot
Power adapter
Your computer comes with a 65-watt ac power adapter.
Security features
•Computrace Agent software embedded in firmware
•Cover presence switch (also called intrusion switch)
•Ability to enable or disable a device
2 ThinkCentre User Guide
•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)
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 “Lenovo programs” on page 4.
Preinstalled operating system
Your computer is preinstalled with one of the following operating systems:
•Microsoft Windows 7 operating system
•Microsoft Windows 8 operating system
Operating system(s), certified or tested for compatibility1 (varies by model type)
•Linux®
•Microsoft Windows XP Professional SP 3
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
This section lists the physical specifications for your computer.
Dimensions
Width: 179 mm (7.05 inches)
Height: 34.5 mm (1.36 inches)
Depth: 182 mm (7.17 inches)
Weight
Maximum configuration as shipped: 4.86 kg (10.71 lb) (with package)
Maximum configuration as shipped: 4.14 kg (9.13 lb) (without package)
Environment
• Air temperature:
Operating: 10°C to 35°C (50°F to 95°F)
Storage: -40°C to 60°C (-40°F to 140°F) in original shipping package
Storage: -10°C to 60°C (14°F to 140°F) without package
• Humidity:
Operating: 20% to 80% (non-condensing)
Storage: 20% to 90% (non-condensing)
• Altitude:
Operating: -50 to 10 000 ft (-15.2 to 3048 m)
Storage: -50 to 35 000 ft (-15.2 to 10 668 m)
Electrical input
The ac power adapter input voltage: 100 to 240 V ac
Input frequency range: 50 to 60 Hz
Your computer comes with Lenovo programs to help you work more easily and securely. Depending on the Windows operating system preinstalled, the programs might vary.
On the Windows 7 operating system, you can access Lenovo programs from either the Lenovo ThinkVantage® Tools program or from Control Panel.
Accessing Lenovo programs from the Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools program
To access Lenovo programs from the Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools program, click Start All Programs Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools. Then double-click a program icon to access the program.
Note: If a program icon in the Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools program navigation window is dimmed, it indicates that you need to install the program manually. To install the program manually, double-click the program icon. Then, follow the instructions on the screen. When the installation process completes, the program icon will be activated.
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Table 1. Programs in the Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools program
Program |
Icon name |
|
|
Communications Utility |
Web Conferencing |
|
|
Fingerprint Software |
Fingerprint Reader |
|
|
Lenovo Solution Center |
System Health and Diagnostics |
|
|
Password Manager |
Password Vault |
|
|
Power Manager |
Power Controls |
|
|
Recovery Media |
Factory Recovery Disks |
|
|
Rescue and Recovery® |
Enhanced Backup and Restore |
SimpleTap |
SimpleTap |
|
|
System Update |
Update and Drivers |
|
|
View Management Utility |
Screen Layout |
|
|
Note: Depending on your computer model, some of the programs might not be available.
Accessing Lenovo programs from Control Panel
To access Lenovo programs from Control Panel, click Start Control Panel. Then depending on the program you want to access, click the corresponding section and then click the corresponding green text.
Note: If you do not find the program you need in Control Panel, open the Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools program navigation window and double-click the dimmed icon to install the program you need. Then, follow the instructions on the screen. When the installation process completes, the program icon will be activated, and you can find the program in Control Panel.
The programs and the corresponding sections and green texts in Control Panel are listed in the following table.
Table 2. Programs in Control Panel
Program |
Control Panel section |
Green text in Control Panel |
|
|
|
Communications Utility |
Hardware and Sound |
Lenovo - Web Conferencing |
|
|
|
Fingerprint Software |
System and Security |
Lenovo - Fingerprint Reader |
|
Hardware and Sound |
|
|
|
|
Lenovo Solution Center |
System and Security |
Lenovo - System Health and |
|
|
Diagnostics |
|
|
|
Password Manager |
System and Security |
Lenovo - Password Vault |
|
User Accounts and Family Safety |
|
|
|
|
Power Manager |
Hardware and Sound |
Lenovo - Power Controls |
|
System and Security |
|
|
|
|
Recovery Media |
System and Security |
Lenovo - Factory Recovery Disks |
|
|
|
Rescue and Recovery |
System and Security |
Lenovo - Enhanced Backup and |
|
|
Restore |
|
|
|
SimpleTap |
Programs |
Lenovo - SimpleTap |
|
|
|
System Update |
System and Security |
Lenovo - Update and Drivers |
|
|
|
View Management Utility |
System and Security |
Lenovo View Management Utility |
|
|
|
Chapter 1. Product overview 5
Note: Depending on your computer model, some of the programs might not be available.
If your computer is preinstalled with the Windows 8 operating system, you can access Lenovo programs by doing either of the following:
•Click the Lenovo QuickLaunch icon from the taskbar. A list of programs is displayed. Double-click a Lenovo program to launch it. If a desired program is not in the list, click the plus icon +.
•Press the Windows key to go to the Start screen. Click a Lenovo program to launch it. If you cannot find the program you need, move the pointer to the bottom-right corner of the screen to display the charms. Then click the Search charm to search for the desired program.
Your computer supports the following Lenovo programs:
•Fingerprint Software
•Lenovo Companion
•Lenovo Settings
•Lenovo Solution Center
•Lenovo QuickLaunch
•Lenovo Support
•Password Manager
•System Update
This topic provides a brief introduction to some Lenovo programs.
Note: Depending on your computer model, some of the programs might not be available.
•Communications Utility
The Communications Utility program provides a central location for integrated camera and microphone settings. It controls advanced settings for the integrated microphone and camera to optimize Web conferencing and Voice over IP (VOIP) experience.
•Fingerprint Software
The integrated fingerprint reader provided on some keyboards enables you to enroll your fingerprint and associate it with your power-on password, hard disk password, and Windows password. As a result, fingerprint authentication can replace passwords and enable simple and secure user access. A fingerprint reader keyboard is available with select computers or can be purchased for computers that support this option.
•Lenovo Cloud Storage
The Lenovo Cloud Storage program is a cloud storage solution that enables you to store your files, such as documents and pictures, on a server. You can access the stored files through the Internet from different devices such as personal computers, smart phones, or tablets. For more information about the Lenovo Cloud Storage program, go to http://www.lenovo.com/cloud.
•Lenovo Companion
Through the Lenovo Companion program, you can get the information about the accessories for your computer, view bolgs and articles about your computer, and check for other recommended programs.
6 ThinkCentre User Guide
•Lenovo Settings
Use the Lenovo Settings program to enhance your computing experience by turning your computer into a portable hotspot, configuring camera and audio settings, optimizing your power plan settings, and creating and managing multiple network profiles.
•Lenovo Solution Center
The Lenovo Solution Center program enables you to troubleshoot and resolve computer problems. It combines diagnostic tests, system information collection, security status, and support information, along with hints and tips for maximum system performance.
•Lenovo QuickLaunch
The Lenovo QuickLaunch program provides you with quick access to programs installed on your computer, including Lenovo programs, Microsoft programs, and other third party programs.
•Lenovo Support
The Lenovo Support program enables you to register your computer with Lenovo, check the computer health condition and battery status, download and view user manuals for your computer, get the warranty information of your computer, and explore help and support information.
•Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools
The Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools program guides you to a host of information sources and provides easy access to various tools to help you work more easily and securely.
•Lenovo Welcome
The Lenovo Welcome program introduces you to some innovative built-in features of Lenovo and guides you through a few important setup tasks to help you make the most of your computer.
•Password Manager
The Password Manager program automatically captures and fills in authentication information for Windows programs and Web sites.
•Power Manager
The Power Manager program provides convenient, flexible, and complete power management for your computer. It enables you to adjust your computer power settings to achieve the best balance between performance and power saving.
•Recovery Media
The Recovery Media program enables you to restore the contents of the hard disk drive to the factory default settings.
•Rescue and Recovery
The Rescue and Recovery program is a one-button recovery and restore solution that includes a set of self-recovery tools to help you diagnose computer problems, get help, and recover from system crashes, even if you cannot start the Windows operating system.
•SimpleTap
The SimpleTap program provides you with a quick way to customize some basic computer settings such as muting the speakers, adjusting the volume, locking the computer operating system, launching a program, opening a Web page, opening a file, and so on. You also can use the SimpleTap program to access the Lenovo App Shop, from which you can download various applications and computer software.
To start the SimpleTap program in a quick way, do any of the following:
–Click the red SimpleTap launch point on the desktop. The red launch point is available on the desktop after you have launched the SimpleTap program for the first time.
–Press the blue ThinkVantage button if your keyboard has one.
Note: The SimpleTap program is only available on certain models preinstalled with the Windows 7 operating system. If your Windows 7 model is not preinstalled with the SimpleTap program, you can download it from http://www.lenovo.com/support.
Chapter 1. Product overview 7
•System Update
The System Update program helps you keep the software on your computer up-to-date by downloading and installing software update packages (Lenovo programs, device drivers, UEFI BIOS updates, and other third party programs).
•View Management Utility
The View Management Utility program enables you to easily organize your open windows. It divides your screen into multiple parts and then resizes and positions open windows into different parts to make the best use of your desktop. The program also is able to work across multiple monitors to improve your productivity.
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.
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Figure 1 “Front connector, control, and indicator locations” on page 9 shows the locations of the connectors, controls, and indicators on the front of your computer.
Figure 1. Front connector, control, and indicator locations
1 |
Bluetooth activity indicator |
2 |
Power indicator |
3 |
Power switch |
4 |
Wireless activity indicator |
5 |
Hard disk drive activity indicator |
6 |
USB 2.0 connector (USB port 1) |
7 |
Microphone connector |
8 |
Headphone connector |
9 |
USB 2.0 connector (USB port 2) |
Chapter 1. Product overview 9
Figure 2 “Rear connector locations” on page 10 shows the locations of the connectors on the rear of your computer. Some connectors on the rear of your computer are color-coded to help you determine where to connect the cables on your computer.
Figure 2. Rear connector locations
1 |
USB 2.0 connector (USB port 5) |
2 |
Ethernet connector |
3 |
VGA monitor connector |
4 |
USB 2.0 connector (USB port 3) |
5 |
USB 2.0 connector (USB port 4) |
6 |
DisplayPort connector |
7 ac power adapter connector
8 Integrated cable lock slot
9 Optional port
10 ac power adapter cable loop
11 WiFi card module antenna slot
Connector |
Description |
DisplayPort connector |
Used to attach a high-performance monitor, a direct-drive monitor, or other devices |
|
that use a DisplayPort connector. |
Ethernet connector |
Used to attach an Ethernet cable for a local area network (LAN). |
|
Note: To operate the computer within FCC Class B limits, use a Category 5 Ethernet |
|
cable. |
Optional port |
Used to install a serial port, a USB 2.0 connector, or an optional WiFi card module |
|
antenna. |
USB 2.0 connector |
Use this connector to attach a device that requires a USB 2.0 connection, such as a |
|
keyboard, a mouse, a scanner, a printer, or a personal digital assistant (PDA). |
VGA monitor connector |
Used to attach a VGA monitor or other devices that use a VGA monitor connector. |
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Figure 3 “Component locations” on page 11 shows the locations of the various components in your computer. To remove the computer cover, see “Removing the computer cover” on page 33.
Figure 3. Component locations
1 |
Computer cover |
2 |
System fan |
7 |
Power switch board |
8 |
ac power adapter |
Chapter 1. Product overview 11
3 |
Heat sink |
4 |
Microprocessor |
5 |
Cover presence switch (Intrusion switch) |
6 |
Memory module(s) |
9 WiFi card module
10 Battery
11 Internal speaker
12 Hard disk drive or solid-state drive
Figure 4 “System board part locations” on page 12 shows the locations of the parts on the system board.
Figure 4. System board part locations
1 |
Internal speaker connector |
2 |
Power switch board cable connector |
3 |
Mini PCI Express card slot |
4 |
Hard disk drive power connector |
5 |
SATA connector |
6 |
Optional USB connector |
7 |
Serial (COM1) connector |
8 |
System fan connector |
9 |
Battery |
10 Clear CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) /Recovery jumper
11 |
Microprocessor |
12 Cover presence switch connector (Intrusion switch connector)
13 |
Memory slots (2) |
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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 5. Machine type and model label
Chapter 1. Product overview 13
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This chapter provides information on using some of the computer components.
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 80.
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 117. 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 with detailed information about using the Windows operating system to help you get the most of your computer. To access the Windows Help and Support information system, do one of the following:
•On the Windows 7 operating system, click Start Help and Support.
•On the Windows 8 operating system, move your cursor to the top-right or bottom-right corner of the screen to display the charms. Then click Settings Help.
On the Windows operating system, you can view and change computer settings through Control Panel. To access Control Panel on the Windows 8 operating system, do one of the following:
•From the desktop
1.Move the cursor to the top-right or bottom-right corner of the screen to display the charms.
2.Click Settings.
3.Click Control Panel.
•From the Start screen
1.Move the cursor to the top-right or bottom-right corner of the screen to display the charms.
2.Click Search.
3.On the Apps screen, scroll to the right side, and click Control Panel in the Windows System section.
© Copyright Lenovo 2012 |
15 |
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 16
•“Using the blue ThinkVantage button” on page 16
•“Using a fingerprint reader” on page 16
Both the standard keyboard and the fingerprint reader keyboard provide three keys you can use with your Microsoft Windows operating system.
•The two Windows logo keys are located beside the Alt key on either side of the spacebar. They feature the Windows logo. On the Windows 7 operating system, press the Windows key to open the Start menu. On the Windows 8 operating system, press the Windows key to switch between the current workspace and the Start screen. The style of the Windows logo varies depending on the keyboard type.
•The context-menu key is located next to the Ctrl key on the right side of the Spacebar. Pressing the context-menu key opens the context menu for the active program, icon, or object.
Note: You can use the mouse or the Up and Down arrow keys to highlight menu selections. You can close the Start menu or the context menu by clicking the mouse or pressing Esc.
Some keyboards have a blue ThinkVantage button that you can use to open a comprehensive on-board help and information center from Lenovo. Pressing the blue ThinkVantage button opens the SimpleTap program on the Windows 7 operating system or the Lenovo PC Device Experience program on the Windows 8 operating system.
Some computers might come with a keyboard that has a fingerprint reader. For more information about the fingerprint reader, see “An introduction to Lenovo programs” on page 6.
To open the ThinkVantage Fingerprint Software program and use the fingerprint reader, see “Lenovo programs” on page 4.
Follow the instructions on the screen. For additional information, refer to the ThinkVantage Fingerprint Software help system.
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