® Document Format (PDF) version from the Lenovo Support Web site at http://support.lenovo.com. 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: •...
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.
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.
To view the information about your specific model, do one of the following: • Go into the Lenovo BIOS Setup Utility program by following the instructions in Chapter 7 “Using the Setup Utility program” on page 61. Then, select Main ➙ System Summary to view the information.
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• 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.
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Input/Output (I/O) features • One Ethernet connector • One DVI monitor connector • One optional 9-pin serial port • One VGA monitor connector • Six Universal Serial Bus (USB) connectors (two on the front panel and four on the rear panel) •...
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.
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 is only available on computers with the Windows 7 operating system from Lenovo. • 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.
Locations This section provides information to help you locate the connectors on the front and rear of your computer, parts on the system board, and components and internal drives in your computer. Locating connectors, controls, and indicators on the front of your computer Figure 1 “Front connector, control, and indicator locations”...
Locating connectors on the rear of your computer Figure 2 “Rear connector locations” on page 8 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.
Connector Ethernet connector Used to attach an Ethernet cable for a local area network (LAN). Note: To operate the computer within FCC Class B limits, use a Category 5 Ethernet cable. Microphone connector Used to attach a microphone to your computer when you want to record sound or if you use speech-recognition software.
Locating parts on the system board Figure 4 “System board part locations” on page 10 shows the locations of the parts on the system board. Figure 4. System board part locations 4-pin power connector Microprocessor Microprocessor fan connector Memory slot 1 (DIMM1) Memory slot 2 (DIMM2) Thermal sensor connector 24-pin power connector...
Locating internal drives Internal drives are devices that your computer uses to read and store data. You can add drives to your computer to increase storage capacity and enable your computer to read other types of media. Internal drives are installed in bays. In this manual, the bays are referred to as bay 1, bay 2, and so on. When installing or replacing an internal drive, it is important to note the type and size of the drive that you can install or replace in each bay and correctly connect the cables to the drive installed.
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 53. 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”...
Some keyboards have a blue ThinkVantage button that you can use to open a comprehensive on-board help and information center from Lenovo. If you are using the Windows 7 operating system, pressing the blue ThinkVantage button opens the Lenovo ThinkVantage Toolbox program.
Setting the volume from the desktop The desktop volume control is accessible through the volume icon in the taskbar, which is located at the bottom-right corner of the Windows desktop. Click the volume icon and move the slider up or down to control the volume, or click the Mute icon to turn the audio off.
If 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.
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For detailed information about using the Corel DVD MovieFactory program, see the help system for the program. You can also use Windows Media Player to record CDs and data DVDs. For more information, see “Help and Support” on page 95. Chapter 2 Using your computer...
The following topics provide information about arranging your work area, setting up your computer equipment, and establishing healthy work habits. Lenovo is committed to providing people with disabilities greater access to information and technology. As a result, the following information provides ways to help users that have hearing, vision, and mobility limitations get the most out of their computer experience.
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.
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For power cord information and part numbers, go to: http://www.lenovo.com/powercordnotice ThinkCentre User Guide...
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.
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://support.lenovo.com Figure 8.
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.
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For more information about how to use your antivirus software, refer to the help system of your antivirus software. Chapter 4 Security...
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.
Removing and reinstalling the front bezel Attention: Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information” on page v. This section provides instructions on how to remove and reinstall the front bezel. To remove and reinstall the front bezel, do the following: 1.
4. To reinstall the front bezel, align the three plastic tabs on the right side of the front bezel with the corresponding holes in the chassis, then pivot the front bezel inwards until it snaps into position on the left side. Figure 11.
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3. At the rear of the computer, remove the screw that secures the PCI card latch. Figure 12. Removing the screw that secures the PCI card latch 4. Depending on whether you are installing or replacing a PCI card, do one of the following: •...
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• If you are replacing an old PCI card, grasp the old card that is currently installed and gently pull it out of the slot. Figure 13. Removing a PCI card Notes: a. The card fits tightly into the card slot. If necessary, alternate moving each side of the card a small amount until it is removed from the card slot.
7. Pivot the card latch to the closed position to secure the PCI card. Figure 14. 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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6. Depending on whether you are installing or replacing a memory module, do one of the following: • If you are replacing an old memory module, open the retaining clips and gently pull the memory module out of the memory slot. Figure 15.
7. Position the new memory module over the memory slot. Make sure that the notch module aligns correctly with the slot key down into the slot until the retaining clips close. Figure 17. Installing a memory module 8. Reinstall the PCI Express x16 graphics card if you have removed it. What to do next: •...
4. Remove the old battery. Figure 18. Removing the old battery 5. Install a new battery. Figure 19. Installing a new battery 6. Reinstall the computer cover and connect the cables. See “Completing the parts replacement” on page 50. 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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5. Remove the four screws that secure the hard disk drive. Then, slide the hard disk drive out of the chassis. Figure 20. Removing the primary hard disk drive Chapter 5 Installing or replacing hardware...
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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This section provides instructions on how to install or replace the optical drive. Note: The optical drive is only available in some models. To replace an optical drive, do the following: 1. Turn off the computer and disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets. 2.
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. Then, install the three screws to secure the new optical drive in place.
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This section provides instructions on how to replace the power supply assembly. Although there are no moving parts in your computer after the power cord has been disconnected, the following warnings are required for your safety and proper Underwriters Laboratories (UL) certification. CAUTION: Hazardous moving parts.
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 heat sink and fan assembly. CAUTION: The heat sink and fan assembly might be very hot. Turn off the computer and wait three to five minutes to let the computer cool before removing the computer cover. To replace the heat sink and fan assembly, do the following: 1.
b. When handling the heat sink and fan assembly, do not touch the thermal grease on the bottom of the heat sink and fan assembly. 8. Place the new heat sink and fan assembly on the system board so that the four screws are aligned with the corresponding holes in the system board.
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5. Lift the small handle and open the retainer Figure 28. Accessing the microprocessor 6. Lift the microprocessor straight up and out of the microprocessor socket. Figure 29. Removing the microprocessor Notes: a. Your microprocessor and socket might look different from the one illustrated. to access the microprocessor Chapter 5 Installing or replacing hardware...
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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 This is important when installing the new microprocessor on the system board. c.
What to do next: • To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section. • To complete the replacement, go to “Completing the parts replacement” on page 50. Replacing the front audio and USB assembly Attention: Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the “Important safety information”...
9. Reconnect the front audio and USB assembly cables to the front audio connector and the front USB connector on the system board. See “Locating parts on the system board” on page 10. What to do next: • To work with another piece of hardware, go to the appropriate section. •...
8. To update your configuration, refer to Chapter 7 “Using the Setup Utility program” on page 61. 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.
“creating Product Recovery discs.” 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.
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 on different operating systems. 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...
Password considerations A password can be any combination of up to 64 alphabetic and numeric characters. For security reasons, it is recommended to use a strong password that cannot be easily compromised. To set a strong password, use the following guidelines: •...
Note: A password can be any combination of up to 64 alphabetic and numeric characters. For more information, see “Password considerations” on page 62. Erasing lost or forgotten passwords (clearing CMOS) This section provides instructions on how to erase lost or forgotten passwords, such as a user password. To erase a lost or forgotten password, do the following: 1.
Selecting a temporary startup device Use this procedure to select a temporary startup device. Note: Not all discs and hard disk drives are bootable. 1. Turn off your computer. 2. Repeatedly press and release the F12 key when turning on the computer. When the Please select boot device window displays, release the F12 key.
• Enabling the after power loss feature The after power loss feature enables your computer to wake up when the power supply resumes after a sudden loss of electricity. To enable the after power loss feature, do the following: 1. Start the Setup Utility program. See “Starting the Setup Utility program” on page 61. 2.
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.
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 helps you keep the software on your computer up-to-date. Update packages are stored on Lenovo servers and can be downloaded from the Lenovo Support Web site. Update packages can contain applications, device drivers, BIOS flashes, or software updates. When the System Update...
• Do not get the power switches or other controls wet. Moisture can damage these parts and cause an electrical hazard. • Always disconnect a power cord by grasping the plug, but not the cord. Cleaning your computer It is a good practice to clean your computer periodically to protect the surfaces and ensure trouble-free operation.
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.
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3. Turn off the computer and all attached devices. Your hard disk drive automatically parks the read/write head in a nondata area. This prevents damage to the hard disk drive. 4. Unplug the power cords from electrical outlets. 5. Disconnect communication cables, such as modem or network cables, from the outlets first, and then disconnect the other ends from the computer.
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 95 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 95 for more information.
Select the problem your computer is experiencing from the following list: • “Audio problems” on page 77 • “CD problems” on page 78 • “DVD problems” on page 79 • “Intermittent problems” on page 81 • “Keyboard, mouse, or pointing device problems” on page 81 •...
• 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 91 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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Symptom: Playback is very slow or choppy. Actions: • Disable any background programs, such as AntiVirus or Desktop Themes. • Ensure that video resolution is set to less than 1152 x 864. If these actions do not correct the problem, run the diagnostic programs (see “Diagnostic programs” on page 91 for instructions).
• 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 91 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 83 • “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 85 • “If your computer is a Gigabit Ethernet model and you use a speed of 1000 Mbps, the connection fails or errors occur” on page 86 • “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: –...
1. Click Start ➙ Computer. 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.
3. The printer signal cable is securely connected to the correct parallel, serial, or USB connector on the computer. Note: Non-IEEE-approved printer signal cables might cause unpredictable problems. 1. Any device drivers and other software that came with the printer are correctly installed. 2.
• Most software programs have built-in help systems that provide instructions for most tasks. If you are having difficulty performing a specific task within a software program, refer to the help system for that program. Help systems are typically accessible from a menu or button in the program, and frequently from the F1 key.
2. If you are unable to isolate and repair the problem yourself after running the programs, save and print the log files created by the programs. You will need the log files when you speak to a Lenovo technical support representative.
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Note: You can insert the disc into the optical drive when you are setting the startup device sequence. However, if you insert the disc into the optical drive when you have already entered the operating system, you need to restart the computer to access the diagnostic program. 3.
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 91. You can also get the latest technical information and download device drivers and updates from Lenovo Support Web site at: http://support.lenovo.com...
• Engineering Change management - There might be changes that are required after a product has been sold. Lenovo or your reseller will make selected Engineering Changes (ECs) that apply to your hardware available. These items are not covered by the warranty: •...
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For more information about these services, go to the Lenovo Web site at: http://www.lenovo.com ThinkCentre User Guide...
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. Celeron, Intel, Intel Core, 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://support.lenovo.com and click User Guides & 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/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 information...