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Input/Output (I/O) features

• One DisplayPort connector

• One Ethernet connector

• One optional connector (for installing a serial connector or a USB 2.0 connector)

• One VGA monitor connector

• Three Universal Serial Bus (USB) 2.0 connectors (on the rear panel)

• Two USB 3.0 connectors (on the front panel)

• Two audio connectors on the front panel (microphone connector and headset connector)

For more information, see “Locating connectors, controls, and indicators on the front of your computer” on
page 8 and “Locating connectors on the rear of your computer” on page 9.

Expansion

• One external optical drive box (optional, supporting an optical drive or a secondary hard disk drive)

• One hard disk drive bay

• One mini PCI Express card slot

Power supply

Your computer comes with a 65-watt ac power adapter.

Security features

• Ability to enable or disable a device

• Ability to enable and disable USB connectors individually

• Computrace Agent software embedded in firmware

• Cover presence switch (also called intrusion switch)

• 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 a Kensington-style cable lock

For more information, see Chapter 4 “Security” on page 29.

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

• Microsoft Windows 8.1 operating system

• Microsoft Windows 10 operating system

Chapter 1

.

Product overview

3

Summary of Contents for ThinkCentre M73

Page 1: ...ThinkCentre M73 User Guide Machine Types 10AX 10AY 10DK 10DL 10DM and 10DN ...

Page 2: ...on on page v and Appendix A Notices on page 129 Fourth Edition September 2015 Copyright Lenovo 2013 2015 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 ...

Page 3: ...ng a CD or DVD 21 Chapter 3 You and your computer 23 Accessibility and comfort 23 Arranging your workspace 23 Comfort 23 Glare and lighting 24 Air circulation 24 Electrical outlets and cable lengths 24 Accessibility information 24 Registering your computer 27 Moving your computer to another country or region 27 Chapter 4 Security 29 Security features 29 Attaching a Kensington style cable lock 30 P...

Page 4: ...ry startup device 96 Selecting or changing the startup device sequence 96 Enabling ErP LPS compliance mode 96 ICE performance mode 97 ICE thermal alert 97 Exiting the Setup Utility program 98 Chapter 8 Updating system programs 99 Using system programs 99 Updating the BIOS 99 Recovering from a POST BIOS update failure 99 Chapter 9 Preventing problems 101 Keeping your computer current 101 Getting th...

Page 5: ... C WEEE and recycling information 135 Important WEEE information 135 Recycling information for Japan 135 Recycling information for Brazil 136 Battery recycling information for Taiwan 136 Battery recycling information for the European Union 136 Appendix D Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive RoHS 139 European Union RoHS 139 China RoHS 139 Turkish RoHS 139 Ukraine RoHS 140 India RoHS 140 Ap...

Page 6: ...iv ThinkCentre M73 User Guide ...

Page 7: ...allation 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 ...

Page 8: ... 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 o...

Page 9: ...onnect the equipment from the electrical outlet External devices Do not connect or disconnect any external device cables other than Universal Serial Bus USB and 1394 cables while the computer power is on otherwise you might damage your computer To avoid possible damage to attached devices wait at least five seconds after the computer is shut down to disconnect external devices General battery noti...

Page 10: ...ways 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 bu...

Page 11: ...ge 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 bev...

Page 12: ...ponents If you suspect a problem with one of these parts contact a service technician Cleaning and maintenance Keep your computer and workspace clean Shut down the computer and then disconnect the power cord before cleaning the computer Do not spray any liquid detergent directly on the computer or use any detergent containing flammable material to clean the computer Spray the detergent on a soft c...

Page 13: ...processor information of your computer do the following On the Microsoft Windows 7 operation system click Start right click Computer and select Properties to view the information On the Microsoft Windows 8 or Windows 8 1 operating system go to the desktop and move your pointer to the top right or bottom right corner of the screen to display the charms Then click Settings PC info to view the inform...

Page 14: ...to start computers using a network interface independent of data storage devices such as the hard disk drive or installed operating systems Intelligent Cooling Engine ICE The Intelligent Cooling Engine is a system thermal management solution that enables your computer to run with better thermal and acoustic performance The ICE function also monitors the thermal performance of your computer to iden...

Page 15: ...es Ability to enable or disable a device Ability to enable and disable USB connectors individually Computrace Agent software embedded in firmware Cover presence switch also called intrusion switch 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 Sta...

Page 16: ...ou work more easily and securely Depending on the Windows operating system preinstalled the programs might vary Accessing a program on your computer Note For Windows 7 some of the Lenovo programs might be ready to be installed so you need to install them manually Then you can access and use these programs To install a program that is ready to be installed open the Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools program...

Page 17: ...unch the program For Windows 8 or Windows 8 1 1 Press the Windows key to go to the Start screen Click the name of the desired program to launch the program 2 If you cannot find the program you need depending on your Windows version do one of the following For Windows 8 Move the pointer to the bottom right corner of the screen to display the charms Then click the Search charm to search for the desi...

Page 18: ...uthentication can replace passwords and enable simple and secure user access Password Manager The Password Manager program automatically captures and fills in authentication information for Windows programs and Web sites For Windows 7 Windows 8 1 and Windows 10 Lenovo Bluetooth Lock The Lenovo Bluetooth Lock program enables you to use a Bluetooth device such as your smartphone as a proximity based...

Page 19: ...ou to adjust your computer power settings to achieve the best balance between performance and power saving REACHit or Lenovo Reach The REACHit or Lenovo Reach program enhances your cloud experience This program keeps you connected at all times and enables you to access all your favorite items from personal computers smartphones or tablets As a result you can access edit and share your files from a...

Page 20: ...control and indicator locations 1 Power button 2 Bluetooth activity indicator 3 Wireless activity indicator 4 Hard disk drive activity indicator 5 Power indicator 6 USB 3 0 connector 7 Microphone connector 8 Headset connector 9 Always On USB 3 0 connector Notes Indicators 2 3 4 and 5 are visible only when they are lit The headset connector 8 supports a microphone integrated headset and does not su...

Page 21: ...nector 2 Ethernet connector 3 VGA monitor connector 4 USB 2 0 connector 5 USB 2 0 connector 6 DisplayPort connector 7 ac power adapter connector 8 Security lock slot 9 Optional connector 10 ac power adapter cable loop 11 Wi Fi antenna slot Notes The USB 2 0 connector 4 supports the smart power on feature that enables you to turn on the computer or wake it up from S4 hibernation mode by pressing Al...

Page 22: ...h each other when connecting cables To avoid the interference ensure that you use the serial connector convert cable that comes with the computer when you connect a device to the serial connector USB 2 0 connector Used 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 USB 3 0 connector Used to attach a device th...

Page 23: ... 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 55 Figure 3 Component locations Chapter 1 Product overview 11 ...

Page 24: ... or solid state drive installed Locating parts on the system board 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 Serial COM1 connector 2 System fan connector 3 Microprocessor 4 Cover presence switch connector intrusion switch connector 5 Clear CMOS Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor Recovery jumper 6...

Page 25: ...e 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 ...

Page 26: ...14 ThinkCentre M73 User Guide ...

Page 27: ...t To set the default startup screen do the following 1 On the desktop move your pointer to the taskbar at the bottom of the screen and right click on the taskbar 2 Click Properties The Taskbar and Navigation properties window is displayed 3 On the Navigation tab locate the Start screen section and then do one of the following To set the desktop as your default startup screen select When I sign in ...

Page 28: ...on opened from the Start screen use any of the following procedures to go to another workspace that you have previously opened To navigate to a previously accessed workspace application PC settings or desktop do one of the following Using a pointing device 1 Do one of the following Move the pointer to the extreme top left corner of the screen and then move the pointer downward along the left edge ...

Page 29: ...lick the Windows screen control icon in the bottom left corner of the screen From any other workspace move the pointer to the extreme bottom left corner of the screen until the Windows screen control icon is displayed then click the icon Using a touch screen Do one of the following From the desktop tap the Windows screen control icon in the bottom left corner of the screen From any other workspace...

Page 30: ...system open the Help Tips application from the Start screen or Apps screen or refer to the Windows help system For more information see Windows help system on page 125 Accessing Control Panel on the Windows 8 or Windows 8 1 operating system On the Windows operating system you can view and change computer settings through Control Panel To access Control Panel on the Windows 8 or Windows 8 1 operati...

Page 31: ...heel controls the direction of the scrolling action 3 Secondary mouse button Use this button to display a menu for the active program icon or object You can switch the function of the primary and secondary mouse buttons and change other default behavior through the mouse properties function in the Windows Control Panel Setting the computer volume To set the computer volume do the following 1 Click...

Page 32: ...R discs and audio CDs If you have a recordable DVD drive it can also record on DVD R discs DVD RW discs type II DVD RAM discs CD RW standard and high speed discs and CD R discs Follow these guidelines when using the DVD drive Do not place the computer in a location where the drive is exposed to the following High temperature High humidity Excessive dust Excessive vibration or sudden shock An incli...

Page 33: ...lowing 1 With the computer on press the Eject Load button When the tray slides out automatically carefully remove the disc 2 Close the tray by pressing the Eject Load button or by gently pushing the tray forward Note If the tray does not slide out of the drive when you press the Eject Load button insert a straightened paper clip into the emergency eject hole located on the front of the DVD drive B...

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Page 35: ...u arrange your workspace Comfort Although no single working position is ideal for everyone here are a few guidelines to help you find a position that suits you best Sitting in the same position for a long time can cause fatigue The backrest and seat of your chair should adjust independently and provide good support The seat should have a curved front to relieve pressure on the thighs Adjust the se...

Page 36: ...so that nothing blocks the air vents usually 51 mm 2 inches of air space is sufficient Also make sure the vented air is not blowing on people Electrical outlets and cable lengths The location of electrical outlets the length of power cords and cables that connect to the monitor printer and other devices might determine the final placement of your computer When arranging your workspace Avoid the us...

Page 37: ...oose the appropriate tool by following the instructions on the screen Ease of Access Center mainly includes the following tools Magnifier Magnifier is a useful utility that enlarges the entire screen or part of the screen so that you can see the items better Narrator Narrator is a screen reader that reads aloud what is displayed on the screen and describes events such as error messages On Screen K...

Page 38: ...s with screen readers http www adobe com accessibility html promoid DJGVE Using the JAWS screen reader http www freedomscientific com jaws hq asp Using the NVDA screen reader http www nvaccess org Screen resolution You can make the text and images on your screen easier to read by adjusting the screen resolution of your computer To adjust the screen resolution do the following 1 Right click a blank...

Page 39: ...ble formats such as properly tagged PDF files or HyperText Markup Language HTML files Lenovo electronic documentation is developed to ensure that visually impaired users can read the documentation through a screen reader Each image in the documentation also includes adequate alternative text so that visually impaired users can understand the image when they use a screen reader Registering your com...

Page 40: ...28 ThinkCentre M73 User Guide ...

Page 41: ...itch detects that your computer cover is not properly installed or closed when you turn on the computer an error message will be displayed To bypass the error message and log in to the operating system do the following 1 Properly install or close your computer cover See Completing the parts replacement on page 80 2 Press F1 to enter the Setup Utility program Then press F10 to save and exit the Set...

Page 42: ...ton style cable lock Preventing unauthorized access to your computer You can use BIOS passwords and Windows accounts to prevent unauthorized access to your computer and data To use BIOS passwords see Using BIOS passwords on page 93 To use Windows accounts do the following 1 Depending on your Windows version do one of the following For Windows 7 Click the Start button to open the Start menu and the...

Page 43: ...tp www lenovo com support keyboards Using and understanding firewalls A firewall can be hardware software or a combination of both depending on the level of security required Firewalls work on a set of rules to determine which inbound and outbound connections are authorized If your computer is preinstalled with a firewall program it helps protect against computer Internet security threats unauthor...

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Page 45: ...out setting the part down When this is not possible place the static protective package that the part came in on a smooth level surface and place the part on it Do not place the part on the computer cover or other metal surface Installing or replacing hardware This section provides instructions on how to install or replace hardware for your computer You can expand the capabilities of your computer...

Page 46: ...adapter To install the ac power adapter connect the ac power adapter to the ac power adapter connector at the rear of your computer and a workable electrical outlet Secure the power cord into the power adapter cable loop at the rear of the computer as shown Figure 7 Connecting the ac power adapter To remove the ac power adapter do the following 1 Turn off the computer and disconnect all power cord...

Page 47: ...mpt any repair before reading and understanding the Important safety information on page v This section provides instructions on how to install or remove the vertical stand Note The vertical stand and Video Electronics Standards Association VESA mount bracket are optional parts If your computer comes with the VESA mount bracket installed ensure that you remove the VESA mount bracket before you ins...

Page 48: ...ter 2 Align the rear of the computer with the rear of the vertical stand and position the computer on the vertical stand as shown Figure 9 Installing the vertical stand To remove the vertical stand do the following 1 Turn off the computer 36 ThinkCentre M73 User Guide ...

Page 49: ...ny repair before reading and understanding the Important safety information on page v This section provides instructions on how to install or remove the VESA mount bracket Note The VESA mount bracket is only available on some models To install the VESA mount bracket do the following 1 Turn off the computer and disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets Chapter 5 Installing or replacing har...

Page 50: ...stall the two screws to secure the VESA mount bracket to the computer Figure 12 Installing the screws that secure the VESA mount bracket To remove the VESA mount bracket do the following 1 Turn off the computer and disconnect all power cords from the electrical outlets 38 ThinkCentre M73 User Guide ...

Page 51: ...g the VESA mount bracket Installing or removing the ac power adapter bracket 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 install or remove the ac power adapter bracket Note The ac power adapter bracket is only available on some models To remove the ac power adapter...

Page 52: ...nnect all power cords from electrical outlets 2 Pull the tab 1 and then slide the ac power adapter bracket as shown to remove it from the VESA mount bracket Figure 15 Removing the ac power adapter bracket 40 ThinkCentre M73 User Guide ...

Page 53: ...tical drive Attention Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the Important safety information on page v This section provides instructions on how to replace the optical drive Note The optical drive is only available on some models To replace the optical drive do the following 1 Turn off the computer and disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets 2 ...

Page 54: ...SA mount bracket Figure 17 Removing the optical drive box 4 Remove the screw that secures the optical drive in the optical drive box Use the screwdriver to slide the optical drive forward and then remove the optical drive from the optical drive box Figure 18 Removing the optical drive from the optical drive box 42 ThinkCentre M73 User Guide ...

Page 55: ...Removing the optical drive metal plate 6 Align the two screw holes in the optical drive metal plate with the corresponding holes in the new optical drive and then install the two screws to secure the metal plate on the new optical drive Figure 20 Installing the optical drive metal plate Chapter 5 Installing or replacing hardware 43 ...

Page 56: ...til it snaps into position Figure 21 Installing the optical drive into the optical drive box 8 Install the screw that secures the optical drive in the optical drive box Figure 22 Installing the screw that secures the optical drive 44 ThinkCentre M73 User Guide ...

Page 57: ...e optical drive box with the two screws on the VESA mount bracket and then slide the optical drive box to install it on the VESA mount bracket Figure 23 Installing the optical drive box Chapter 5 Installing or replacing hardware 45 ...

Page 58: ...pleting the parts replacement on page 80 Replacing the secondary hard disk drive Attention Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the Important safety information on page v This section provides instructions on how to replace the secondary hard disk drive Note The secondary hard disk drive is only available on some models To replace the secondary hard disk...

Page 59: ...e it from the VESA mount bracket Figure 25 Removing the optical drive box 4 Slide the release button on the optical drive box and then remove the secondary hard disk drive adapter from the optical drive box Figure 26 Removing the secondary hard disk drive adapter from the optical drive box Chapter 5 Installing or replacing hardware 47 ...

Page 60: ...er bracket 6 To remove the hard disk drive from the adapter lift the adapter retaining latch Slide the hard disk drive towards the retaining latch and then lift the hard disk drive out of the adapter Figure 28 Removing the secondary hard disk drive from the adapter 7 Install the four screws to the new hard disk drive Figure 29 Installing the four screws to the hard disk drive 48 ThinkCentre M73 Us...

Page 61: ...naps into position Figure 30 Installing a new hard disk drive into the adapter 9 Position the adapter into the adapter bracket and then pivot the adapter downward until it snaps into position Figure 31 Installing the hard disk drive adapter into the adapter bracket Chapter 5 Installing or replacing hardware 49 ...

Page 62: ...10 Slide the adapter bracket into the optical drive box until it snaps into position Figure 32 Installing the adapter bracket into the optical drive box 50 ThinkCentre M73 User Guide ...

Page 63: ...e optical drive box with the two screws on the VESA mount bracket and then slide the optical drive box to install it on the VESA mount bracket Figure 33 Installing the optical drive box Chapter 5 Installing or replacing hardware 51 ...

Page 64: ...e I O box 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 install or remove the I O box Note The I O box is only available on some models The I O box provides the following connectors for connecting to external devices Four USB 2 0 connectors two on the front and two o...

Page 65: ...and then slide the I O box as shown to remove it from the VESA mount bracket Figure 35 Removing the I O box To install the I O box do the following 1 Turn off the computer and disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets Chapter 5 Installing or replacing hardware 53 ...

Page 66: ...e two holes in the I O box with the two screws on the VESA mount bracket and then slide the I O box as shown to install it on the VESA mount bracket Figure 36 Installing the I O box 54 ThinkCentre M73 User Guide ...

Page 67: ...ructions on how to remove the computer cover CAUTION Before you open the computer cover turn off the computer and wait several minutes until the computer is cool To remove the computer cover do the following 1 Remove any media from the drives and turn off all attached devices and the computer 2 Disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets 3 Disconnect the power cord Input Output cables and a...

Page 68: ...5 Remove the screw that secures the computer cover Figure 38 Removing the computer cover screw 56 ThinkCentre M73 User Guide ...

Page 69: ...portant safety information on page v This section provides instructions on how to install or remove the hard disk drive assembly To remove the hard disk drive assembly do the following 1 Turn off the computer and disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets 2 Remove the computer cover See Removing the computer cover on page 55 3 Locate the hard disk drive See Locating components on page 11 4...

Page 70: ...install the hard disk drive assembly do the following 1 Position the hard disk drive assembly on the system board so that the two holes in the hard disk drive bracket are aligned with the standoffs on the system board Slide the hard disk drive assembly as shown until the two screw holes 1 are aligned with the corresponding screw posts on the system board Figure 41 Installing the hard disk drive as...

Page 71: ...rovides instructions on how to install or replace a memory module Your computer has two slots for installing or replacing DDR3 SODIMMs that provide up to a maximum of 16 GB system memory When installing or replacing a memory module use 2 GB 4GB or 8GB DDR3 SODIMMs in any combination up to a maximum of 16 GB To install or replace a memory module do the following 1 Turn off the computer and disconne...

Page 72: ...secured in the slot and does not move easily Figure 44 Installing a memory module 7 Reinstall the hard disk drive assembly See Installing or removing the hard disk drive assembly on page 57 What to do next To work with another piece of hardware go to the appropriate section To complete the installation or replacement go to Completing the parts replacement on page 80 Replacing the battery Attention...

Page 73: ...disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets 2 Remove the computer cover See Removing the computer cover on page 55 3 Locate the battery See Locating parts on the system board on page 12 4 Remove the hard disk drive assembly to get access to the battery See Installing or removing the hard disk drive assembly on page 57 5 Remove the old battery Figure 45 Removing the old battery 6 Install a n...

Page 74: ... Turn off the computer and disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets 2 Remove the computer cover See Removing the computer cover on page 55 3 Locate the Power button board See Locating components on page 11 4 Remove the hard disk drive assembly See Installing or removing the hard disk drive assembly on page 57 5 Disconnect the Power button board cable from the corresponding connector on t...

Page 75: ...to do next To work with another piece of hardware go to the appropriate section To complete the installation or replacement go to Completing the parts replacement on page 80 Replacing the Wi Fi card module Attention Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the Important safety information on page v This section provides instructions on how to replace the Wi ...

Page 76: ...om the mini PCI Express card slot Note Do not over pivot the Wi Fi card module Figure 50 Removing the Wi Fi card module 7 Insert the new Wi Fi card module into the mini PCI Express card slot Then pivot the Wi Fi card module downward until it snaps into position and is secured by the plastic post Note Do not touch the notched edge of the Wi Fi card module Figure 51 Installing the Wi Fi card module ...

Page 77: ... front Wi Fi antenna do the following 1 Turn off the computer and disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets 2 Remove the computer cover See Removing the computer cover on page 55 3 Remove the hard disk drive assembly See Installing or removing the hard disk drive assembly on page 57 4 Peel off the paper that protects the sticker on the bottom of the front Wi Fi antenna Figure 53 Peeling o...

Page 78: ...hen connect it to the Wi Fi card module Figure 56 Installing the front Wi Fi antenna cable 9 Reconnect the signal cable and power cable to the hard disk drive To remove the rear Wi Fi antenna do the following 1 Turn off the computer and disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets 2 Disconnect the signal cable and power cable from the hard disk drive 3 Disconnect the front Wi Fi antenna cabl...

Page 79: ...removing the rear Wi Fi antenna 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 install or remove the rear Wi Fi antenna Note The rear Wi Fi antenna is only available on some models To install the rear Wi Fi antenna do the following 1 Turn off the computer and disconne...

Page 80: ...ectrical outlets 2 Straighten the rear Wi Fi antenna so that it can be more easily twisted 3 Hold the thicker end of the rear Wi Fi antenna and unscrew the Wi Fi antenna from the rear of the computer Figure 59 Removing the rear Wi Fi antenna What to do next To work with another piece of hardware go to the appropriate section To complete the installation or replacement go to Completing the parts re...

Page 81: ... electrical outlets 2 Remove the computer cover See Removing the computer cover on page 55 3 Locate the internal speaker in the computer See Locating parts on the system board on page 12 4 Remove the hard disk drive assembly See Installing or removing the hard disk drive assembly on page 57 5 Disconnect the internal speaker cable from the system board 6 Release the internal speaker cable from the ...

Page 82: ...nternal speaker holder Figure 61 Removing the internal speaker 8 Press the tab 1 as shown and insert the new internal speaker into the internal speaker holder until the new internal speaker snaps into position and is secured by the tab 1 Figure 62 Installing the internal speaker 70 ThinkCentre M73 User Guide ...

Page 83: ...lacement go to Completing the parts replacement on page 80 Replacing the cover presence switch Attention Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the Important safety information on page v This section provides instructions on how to replace the cover presence switch also known as intrusion switch To replace the cover presence switch do the following 1 Turn ...

Page 84: ...ce switch 6 Attach the new cover presence switch to the thermal module Figure 65 Installing the cover presence switch 7 Connect the cable of the new cover presence switch to the cover presence switch connector on the system board See Locating parts on the system board on page 12 72 ThinkCentre M73 User Guide ...

Page 85: ...ation on page v This section provides instructions on how to replace the system fan CAUTION Hazardous moving parts Keep fingers and other body parts away To replace the system fan do the following 1 Turn off the computer and disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets 2 Remove the computer cover See Removing the computer cover on page 55 3 Locate the system fan in the computer See Locating ...

Page 86: ...5 Remove the three screws that secure the system fan to the thermal module and then lift the system fan to remove it from the computer Figure 66 Removing the system fan 74 ThinkCentre M73 User Guide ...

Page 87: ...allation or replacement go to Completing the parts replacement on page 80 Replacing the thermal module Attention Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the Important safety information on page v This section provides instructions on how to replace the thermal module CAUTION The thermal module might be very hot Before you open the computer cover turn off th...

Page 88: ...he thermal module to the system board a Partially remove screw 1 then fully remove screw 2 and then fully remove screw 1 b Partially remove screw 3 then fully remove screw 4 and then fully remove screw 3 Lift and pull the thermal module to remove it from the system board Notes Carefully remove the four screws from the system board to avoid any possible damage to the system board The four screws ca...

Page 89: ...ing the parts replacement on page 80 Replacing the microprocessor Attention Do not open your computer or attempt any repair before reading and understanding the Important safety information on page v This section provides instructions on how to replace the microprocessor CAUTION The thermal module might be very hot Before you open the computer cover turn off the computer and wait several minutes u...

Page 90: ...rated Touch only the edges of the microprocessor Do not touch the gold contacts on the bottom Do not drop anything onto the microprocessor socket while it is exposed The socket pins must be kept as clean as possible Figure 71 Removing the microprocessor 6 Ensure that the small handle is in the raised position and the microprocessor retainer is fully open 7 Remove the protective cover that protects...

Page 91: ...rocessor retainer and lock it into position with the small handle to secure the new microprocessor in the socket 10 Reinstall the thermal module See Replacing the thermal module on page 75 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 80 Replacing the keyboard or mouse Attention Do not...

Page 92: ... all parts you need to reinstall the computer cover and reconnect cables Depending on the parts you installed or replaced you might need to confirm the updated information in the Setup Utility program Refer to Chapter 7 Using the Setup Utility program on page 93 To reinstall the computer cover and reconnect cables to your computer do the following 1 Ensure that all components have been reassembled...

Page 93: ...ition the computer cover on the chassis and then push the cover to the rear of the computer until it snaps into position Figure 74 Installing the computer cover Chapter 5 Installing or replacing hardware 81 ...

Page 94: ...e 9 7 To update your configuration refer to Chapter 7 Using the Setup Utility program on page 93 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 that are not preinstalled in your operating system...

Page 95: ...e b Follow the instructions on the screen c When the installation process completes the Enhanced Backup and Restore icon is activated 2 There are a variety of methods to choose from when considering how to recover in the event of a software or hardware related problem Some methods vary depending on the type of operating system that is installed 3 The product on the recovery media may be used only ...

Page 96: ...ect boot device window opens release the F12 key 3 Select the desired startup device and press Enter The restore process begins 4 Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the operation Note After restoring your computer hard disk drive to the factory default state you might have to reinstall device drivers for some devices See Reinstalling device drivers on page 88 Performing backup and r...

Page 97: ...es you to locate files on your hard disk drive and transfer them to a network drive or other recordable media such as a USB device or a disc This solution is available even if you did not back up your files or if changes were made to the files since your last backup operation You can also rescue individual files from a Rescue and Recovery backup located on your local hard disk drive a USB device o...

Page 98: ...Creating a rescue medium This section provides instructions on how to create a rescue medium To create a rescue medium on the Windows 7 operating system do the following 1 From the Windows desktop click Start All Programs Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools Enhanced Backup and Restore The Rescue and Recovery program opens 2 In the Rescue and Recovery main window click the Launch advanced Rescue and Recovery...

Page 99: ...installation Reinstalling preinstalled device drivers This section provides instructions on how to reinstall preinstalled device drivers Attention When you reinstall device drivers you are changing the current configuration of your computer Reinstall device drivers only when it is necessary to correct a problem with your computer To reinstall the device driver for a factory installed device do the...

Page 100: ...s you are changing the current configuration of your computer Reinstall device drivers only when it is necessary to correct a problem with your computer For more information about reinstalling device drivers that came with your computer see Reinstalling preinstalled applications and device drivers on page 87 Solving recovery problems If you are unable to access the Rescue and Recovery workspace or...

Page 101: ... affecting your files section click Get started Resetting your computer to the factory default settings You can reset your computer to the factory default settings Resetting the computer will reinstall the operating system and reinstall all the programs and settings that came with your computer Attention If you reset your computer all your personal files and settings will be deleted To avoid data ...

Page 102: ...ocess For more details about the recovery solutions provided on computers preinstalled with the Windows 8 or Windows 8 1 operating system refer to the help information system of the Windows 8 or Windows 8 1 operating system Recovery information for the Windows 10 operating system To recover your Windows 10 operating system use the following solutions Use Windows recovery solutions Use recovery sol...

Page 103: ... create a recovery medium see Good maintenance practices on page 103 Use the recovery USB key provided by Lenovo to restore the entire storage drive to the factory default settings If your computer comes with the recovery USB key follow the instructions shipped with the USB key If your computer does not come with the recovery USB key contact the Lenovo Customer Support Center to order a recovery U...

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Page 105: ...to save changes and exit the Setup Utility program Press Enter when prompted to confirm the exit The error message will not be displayed again Press F2 to bypass the error message and log in to the operating system Note You have to enable the configuration change detection feature for the POST to detect the removal of the hard disk drive and memory module size decrease To enable the configuration ...

Page 106: ...s you might want to set an Administrator Password When an Administrator Password is set you are prompted to type a valid password each time you try to access the Setup Utility program The Setup Utility program cannot be accessed until a valid password is typed in If both the Power On Password and Administrator Password are set you can type either password However you must use your Administrator Pa...

Page 107: ...ord See Completing the parts replacement on page 80 Enabling or disabling a device This section provides information on how to enable or disable user access to the following devices USB Setup Use this option to enable or disable a USB connector When a USB connector is disabled the device connected to the USB connector cannot be used SATA Controller When this feature is set to Disable all devices c...

Page 108: ...rtup Sequence the Automatic Startup Sequence and the Error Startup Sequence Read the information displayed on the right side of the screen 4 Press F10 to save changes and exit the Setup Utility program See Exiting the Setup Utility program on page 98 Enabling ErP LPS compliance mode Lenovo computers meet the eco design requirements of the ErP Lot 3 regulation For more information go to http www le...

Page 109: ...erformance of your computer through the ICE Performance Mode menu Three options are available Better Acoustic Performance default setting If this option is enabled your computer will operate with less noise at a normal thermal level Better Thermal Performance If this option is enabled your computer will operate at a better thermal level with normal acoustic performance Full Speed If this option is...

Page 110: ...played 5 Select Enabled or Disabled as desired 6 Press F10 to save changes and exit the Setup Utility program See Exiting the Setup Utility program on page 98 Exiting the Setup Utility program After you finish viewing or changing settings press Esc to return to the Setup Utility program main menu You might have to press Esc several times Do one of the following If you want to save the new settings...

Page 111: ...te a system program update disc or an update program that can be run from the operating system Updating the BIOS When you install a new program hardware device or device driver you might be informed to update the BIOS You can update the BIOS from your operating system or a flash update disc supported only on some models To update the BIOS do the following 1 Go to http www lenovo com drivers 2 Down...

Page 112: ...e disc into the optical drive Wait a few minutes Then the recovery session begins The recovery session will take two to three minutes During this time a warning message will be displayed and no action is needed from you 9 After the recovery session is completed there will be no video and your computer will automatically turn off 10 Repeat step 1 through step 4 11 Move the Clear CMOS Recovery jumpe...

Page 113: ...o get the latest system updates for your computer ensure that your computer is connected to the Internet and do one of the following Use the System Update or Lenovo Companion program provided by Lenovo to get the system updates such as device driver updates software updates and BIOS updates Note The Lenovo Companion program is not available on Windows 7 computer models To open the System Update or...

Page 114: ...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 CAUTION Be sure to turn off the computer and monitor power switches before cleaning the computer and monito...

Page 115: ...with a soft dry cloth or blow on the screen to remove grit and other loose particles Then moisten a cloth with LCD cleaner and wipe the screen surface Many computer supply stores carry the special cleaning fluids for displays Use cleaning fluids developed for LCD displays only First apply the fluid to a lint free soft cloth then clean the LCD display Some computer supply stores carry pre moistened...

Page 116: ...mall icons and then click Recovery Follow the instructions on the screen Note For detailed information on how to open Control Panel on Windows 8 and Windows 8 1 see Accessing Control Panel on the Windows 8 or Windows 8 1 operating system on page 18 For Windows 10 Right click the Start button to open the Start context menu and then click Control Panel View Control Panel using Large icons or Small i...

Page 117: ... attached to the computer then remove them 7 If you saved the original shipping cartons and packing materials use them to pack the units If you are using different cartons cushion the units to avoid damage Chapter 9 Preventing problems 105 ...

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Page 119: ...ter make sure that it is switched on The power indicator on the front of the computer is on The computer voltage matches the voltage available at the electrical outlet for your country or region The monitor screen is blank Verify that The monitor signal cable is correctly connected to the monitor and to the appropriate monitor connector on the computer The monitor power cord is correctly connected...

Page 120: ... the older configuration settings do not solve the problem or have adverse effects To restore a captured configuration do the following a Open Control Panel by doing one of the following For Windows 7 Click the Start button to open the Start menu and then click Control Panel For Windows 8 or Windows 8 1 See Accessing Control Panel on the Windows 8 or Windows 8 1 operating system on page 18 For Win...

Page 121: ...Monitor problems on page 115 Networking problems on page 116 Option problems on page 119 Performance and lockup problems on page 120 Printer problems on page 121 Serial connector problems on page 122 Software problems on page 122 USB problems on page 123 Audio problems Select your symptom from the following list No audio in Windows on page 109 An audio disc or AutoPlay enabled disc does not automa...

Page 122: ...a drive Symptom An audio disc or AutoPlay enabled disc does not automatically play when it is inserted into a drive Action See CD problems on page 110 Sound comes from one external speaker only Symptom Sound comes from one external speaker only Actions Ensure that the speaker cable is inserted completely into the connector on the computer Make sure the cable that attaches the left speaker to the r...

Page 123: ... is not scratched or damaged Try inserting another disc that you know is good If you cannot read from a known good disc you might have a problem with your CD or DVD drive or the cabling to your CD or DVD drive Make sure that the power cable and signal cable are securely connected to the drive Unable to use a startable bootable recovery medium such as the Product Recovery CD to start your computer ...

Page 124: ...audio or intermittent audio while playing DVD movie Symptom No audio or intermittent audio while playing DVD movie Actions Check the volume control settings on your computer and on your speakers Make sure that the disc surface is clean and not scratched Check all cable connections to and from the speakers Use the DVD menu for the video to select a different audio track If these actions do not corr...

Page 125: ...Keyboard mouse or pointing device problems Select your symptom from the following list All or some keys on the keyboard do not work on page 113 The mouse or pointing device does not work on page 114 The pointer on the screen does not move smoothly with the mouse on page 114 The fingerprint reader does not work on page 114 The wireless keyboard does not work on page 114 All or some keys on the keyb...

Page 126: ...bling or disabling a device on page 95 If these actions do not correct the problem run the Lenovo Solution Center program If you need technical assistance see Chapter 11 Getting information help and service on page 125 The pointer on the screen does not move smoothly with the mouse Symptom The pointer on the screen does not move smoothly with the mouse Action Erratic movement of the mouse pointer ...

Page 127: ...screen Action Have the computer serviced For details see Chapter 11 Getting information help and service on page 125 The monitor works when you turn on the computer but goes blank after some period of computer inactivity Symptom The monitor works when you turn on the computer but goes blank after some period of computer inactivity Action The computer is probably set for energy savings with the pow...

Page 128: ...aced The image is discolored Symptom The image is discolored Action The monitor might be affected by interference from nearby equipment Magnetic fields around other devices such as transformers appliances fluorescent lights and other monitors might be causing the problem Move fluorescent desk lighting or any equipment that produces magnetic fields further away from the monitor If this does not cor...

Page 129: ...r right click the highlighted adapter 5 Click Update Driver Software and then follow the instructions on the screen On the Windows 8 or Windows 8 1 operating system do the following 1 Open Control Panel Note For detailed information on how to open Control Panel on Windows 8 and Windows 8 1 see Accessing Control Panel on the Windows 8 or Windows 8 1 operating system on page 18 2 Click Hardware and ...

Page 130: ...uter is a Gigabit Ethernet model it cannot connect to the network at 1000 Mbps Instead it connects at 100 Mbps Actions Try another cable Make sure that the link partner is set to auto negotiate Make sure that the switch is 802 3ab compliant gigabit over copper A wireless LAN problem Symptom You cannot connect using the built in wireless networking card Actions Make sure that your wireless LAN driv...

Page 131: ...on that previously worked does not work now on page 119 An option that was just installed does not work Symptom An option that was just installed does not work Action Verify that The option is designed for your computer You followed the installation instructions supplied with the option and the installation instructions provided with your computer and all option files such as device drivers if req...

Page 132: ...ion do one of the following For Windows 7 Click the Start button to open the Start menu and then click Computer For Windows 8 Open File Explorer and then click Computer For Windows 8 1 Open File Explorer For Windows 10 Click the Start button to open the Start menu and then click File Explorer This PC 2 Right click your C drive and then click Properties 3 Check the amount of free space and then cli...

Page 133: ... Insufficient memory In general the more memory that is installed the better the Windows operating system runs Action Install additional memory For information about purchasing memory see Chapter 11 Getting information help and service on page 125 For step by step instructions on installing memory see Installing or replacing a memory module on page 59 If these actions do not correct the problem ru...

Page 134: ...ed technical assistance see Chapter 11 Getting information help and service on page 125 Software problems Select your symptom from the following list When using a sort feature dates do not sort in the correct order on page 122 Software does not work as expected on page 122 When using a sort feature dates do not sort in the correct order Symptom When using a sort feature dates do not sort in the co...

Page 135: ...rge icons or Small icons and then click Recovery Open System Restore 3 Follow the instructions on the screen If you are unable to resolve the problem through other methods uninstall the software program and reinstall it If these actions do not correct the problem you might need technical assistance Contact your software manufacturer or see Chapter 11 Getting information help and service on page 12...

Page 136: ...re using a Windows operating system other than Windows 7 Windows 8 Windows 8 1 or Windows 10 go to http www lenovo com diags for the latest information on diagnostics for your computer To run the Lenovo Solution Center program see Lenovo programs on page 4 For additional information refer to the Lenovo Solution Center help system Note If you are unable to isolate and repair the problem yourself af...

Page 137: ...r Windows 10 Click the Start button to open the Start menu and then click Get started Safety and Warranty The Safety Warranty and Setup Guide that is provided with your computer contains information on safety setup warranty and notices Read and understand all safety information before using this product Lenovo Web site The Lenovo Web site http www lenovo com provides up to date information and ser...

Page 138: ...al information and download device drivers and updates from Lenovo Support Web site at http www lenovo com support Calling for service During the warranty period you can get help and information by telephone through the Customer Support Center The following services are available during the warranty period Problem determination Trained service personnel are available to assist you with determining...

Page 139: ... procedures vary by country and some services might not be available in all countries International Warranty Service is delivered through the method of service such as depot carry in or on site service that is provided in the servicing country Service centers in certain countries might not be able to service all models of a particular machine type In some countries fees and restrictions might appl...

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Page 141: ...ublication Lenovo may make improvements and or changes in the product s and or the program s described in this publication at any time without notice The products described in this document are not intended for use in implantation or other life support applications where malfunction may result in injury or death to persons The information contained in this document does not affect or change Lenovo...

Page 142: ... Windows and Windows Media are trademarks of the Microsoft group of companies Intel is a trademark of Intel Corporation in the U S and or other countries DisplayPort and VESA are Trademarks of the Video Electronics Standards Association Linux is a registered trademark of Linus Torvalds Other company product or service names may be trademarks or service marks of others 130 ThinkCentre M73 User Guid...

Page 143: ...eption which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected Consult an authorized deale...

Page 144: ...d zu betreiben Des Weiteren dürfen auch nur von der Lenovo empfohlene Kabel angeschlossen werden Lenovo übernimmt keine Verantwortung für die Einhaltung der Schutzanforderungen wenn das Produkt ohne Zustimmung der Lenovo verändert bzw wenn Erweiterungskomponenten von Fremdherstellern ohne Empfehlung der Lenovo gesteckt eingebaut werden Deutschland Einhaltung des Gesetzes über die elektromagnetisch...

Page 145: ...ncia En Mexico la operación de este equipo estásujeta a las siguientes dos condiciones 1 es posible que este equipo o dispositivo no cause interferencia perjudicial y 2 este equipo o dispositivo debe aceptar cualquier interferencia incluyendo la que pueda causar su operación no deseada Additional regulatory information For additional regulatory information refer to the Regulatory Notice shipped wi...

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Page 147: ...and recovery of WEEE and to minimize any potential effects of EEE on the environment and human health due to the presence of hazardous substances For additional WEEE information go to http www lenovo com recycling Recycling information for Japan Collecting and recycling a disused Lenovo computer or monitor If you are a company employee and need to dispose of a Lenovo computer or monitor that is th...

Page 148: ...puter at home and need to dispose of a lithium battery you must comply with local ordinances and regulations Recycling information for Brazil Declarações de Reciclagem no Brasil Descarte de um Produto Lenovo Fora de Uso Equipamentos elétricos e eletrônicos não devem ser descartados em lixo comum mas enviados à pontos de coleta autorizados pelo fabricante do produto para que sejam encaminhados e pr...

Page 149: ...o indicate that they are to be collected separately and recycled at end of life The label on the battery may also include a chemical symbol for the metal concerned in the battery Pb for lead Hg for mercury and Cd for cadmium Users of batteries and accumulators must not dispose of batteries and accumulators as unsorted municipal waste but use the collection framework available to customers for the ...

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Page 151: ...us substances in electrical and electronic equipment RoHS recast or RoHS 2 For more information about Lenovo progress on RoHS go to http www lenovo com social_responsibility us en RoHS_Communication pdf China RoHS Turkish RoHS The Lenovo product meets the requirements of the Republic of Turkey Directive on the Restriction of the Use of Certain Hazardous Substances in Waste Electrical and Electroni...

Page 152: ...Ukraine RoHS India RoHS RoHS compliant as per E Waste Management Handling Rules 2011 140 ThinkCentre M73 User Guide ...

Page 153: ...Appendix E China Energy Label Copyright Lenovo 2013 2015 141 ...

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Page 155: ... to http www energystar gov Lenovo encourages you to make efficient use of energy an integral part of your day to day operations To help in this endeavor set the following power management features to take effect when your computer has been inactive for a specified duration Table 1 ENERGY STAR power management features Windows 7 Windows 8 Windows 8 1 or Windows 10 operating system Power plan Think...

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Page 157: ...ion 10 device drivers 82 devices handling static sensitive 33 diagnostics program using 126 diagnostics troubleshooting 107 DisplayPort connector 10 documentation using 126 drivers device 82 E environment operating 4 Ethernet 2 Ethernet connector 10 exiting Setup Utility 98 expansion 3 external options installing 33 F failure recovering from POST BIOS 99 features 1 front connectors controls indica...

Page 158: ...recovery boot block 99 operations backup and 84 problems solving 88 recovery media creating and using 83 removing computer cover 55 replacing battery 60 cover presence switch 71 hard disk drive 57 heat sink and fan assembly 75 microprocessor 77 Power button board 62 Rescue and Recovery 83 workspace Rescue and Recovery 85 Rescue and Recovery workspace 85 resources information 125 S safety v safety ...

Page 159: ...ium creating and 86 diagnostic program 126 documentation 126 other services 127 passwords 93 Setup Utility 93 V vertical stand installing or removing 35 VESA mount bracket installing or removing 37 VGA monitor connector 10 video subsystem 1 viewing and changing settings 93 W warranty information 125 WiFi card module replacing 63 workspace backup and recovery 85 Copyright Lenovo 2013 2015 147 ...

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