IBM ThinkPad X20 Manual

ThinkPad
®
XSeries
Service and Troubleshooting Guide


Note
Before using this information and the product it supports, be sure to read the general information under
“Appendix A. Important safety instructions” on page 43, “Appendix B. Warranty Information” on Page 49,
“Appendix C. Notices” on page 63, and “Appendix D. Wireless Regulatory Information” on page 77.
DANGER
vTo avoid electric shock hazard, connect and disconnect cables appropriately when installing, moving or opening
the covers of this product or attached devices. Use the power cord with a properly grounded outlet.
vDo not leave the base of your computer in contact with your lap or any part of your body for an extended
period when the computer is functioning or when the battery is charging. Your computer dissipates some heat
during normal operation. This heat is a function of the level of system activity and battery charge level.
Extended contact with your body, even through clothing, could cause discomfort or, eventually, a skin burn.
vTo reduce the risk of electric shock, do not use your computer in or near water.
vTo avoid electric shock, do not use your computer with the telephone cable connection during an electrical
storm. Do not connect the cable to or disconnect it from the telephone outlet on the wall during an electrical
storm.
vStore packing materials safely out of the reach of children to prevent the risk of suffocation from plastic bags.
vThe battery pack contains a small amount of harmful substances. There is danger of an explosion if the battery
pack is incorrectly replaced, exposed to fire or water, short-circuited or disassembled. Keep the battery pack
away from children and do not put it in trash that is disposed of in landfills.
vTo reduce the risk of fire, use only No. 26 AWG or thicker telephone cable.
vThe fluorescent lamp in the LCD contains mercury. Do not put it in trash that is disposed of in landfills. Rough
handling or dropping the computer can cause the LCD to break and the internal fluid to get into your eyes or
on your hands. Immediately wash the affected areas with water. If symptoms persist, seek medical care.
vDo not disassemble the optical storage drive unit, as this might result in hazardous radiation exposure.
vAvoid direct eye exposure with the laser beam contained in some drives.
First Edition (Dec 2001)
The following paragraph does not apply to the United Kingdom or any country where such provisions are
inconsistent with local law:
INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION PROVIDES THIS PUBLICATION “AS IS” WITHOUT
WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED
WARRANTIES OF NON-INFRINGEMENT, MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
Some states do not allow disclaimer of express or implied warranties in certain transactions, therefore, this statement
may not apply to you.
This information could include technical inaccuracies or typographical errors. Changes are periodically made to the
information herein; these changes will be incorporated in new editions of the publication. IBM may make
improvements and/or changes in the product(s) and/or the program(s) described in this publication at any time
without notice.
IBM may use or distribute any of the information you supply in any way it believes appropriate without incurring
any obligation to you.
© Copyright International Business Machines Corporation 2001. All rights reserved.
US Government Users Restricted Rights – Use, duplication or disclosure restricted by GSA ADP Schedule Contract
with IBM Corp.

Important Notice for Users
The FCC RF Safety Requirement
When you use a Bluetooth option or wireless PCMCIA card in your ThinkPad
X Series computer, please make sure of the following:
1. Visit the IBM site at www.ibm.com/pc/qtechinfo/MIGR-39377.html and
confirm the updated list of RF option devices that have been approved to
cooperate with the integrated wireless feature.
2. When you use any other RF option device that is not listed on the IBM
site, all other wireless features including the integrated transmitter in your
ThinkPad computer are required to be turned off.
3. Users are requested to follow the RF Safety instructions on wireless option
devices that are included in the RF option device’s user’s manual.
See ’Appendix D. Wireless Regulatory Information’on page 77 for more
details.
© Copyright IBM Corp. 2001 iii

iv ThinkPad
®
X Series Service and Troubleshooting Guide

Finding information with Access ThinkPad
Find answers to your questions about your computer and view IBM Web sites
by pressing the ThinkPad Button shown in the previous illustration to open
Access ThinkPad, your on-board computer help center.
5
4
3
2
1
© Copyright IBM Corp. 2001 v

Learn about the many features of your ThinkPad
computer. ThinkPad Features provides a visual display
of your computer and components.
Once you are familiar with the hardware features of
your system use the Tools and Tips category to get the
most out of those features like Wireless Networking,
Maximizing your battery life, etc... Click Access Help to
open a comprehensive help system offering information
such as how to change or upgrade the memory in your
computer.
Visit these IBM Web sites to join an interactive
community of ThinkPad users, download new
backgrounds, purchase accessories, or get online
support.
Keyword Search provides a quick way to search
information in Access Help.
You can view information about your system such as
model number in System Details and change the look
of your application through Personalize.
vi ThinkPad
®
X Series Service and Troubleshooting Guide

Whenever you have a question about your computer, or wish to view IBM
Web sites, simply press the ThinkPad button to open Access ThinkPad.
Access ThinkPad includes a comprehensive, on-board help and information
center for your computer. It travels with you, eliminating the need to carry
reference manuals.
Find information about your ThinkPad computer and its features by using the
search function. For direct access to help and support, tips from other mobile
users, and information about accessories, software, and upgrades, visit the
IBM Web site.
View help topics to learn how to:
vUse your computer hardware features
vConnect to the internet or a local network
vSet up a projector for your presentation
vUse passwords and other security features
vInstall, remove and recover software
vUpgrade your system
vExtend the life of your battery
vTroubleshoot problems
vContact IBM for service and support
vPerform many other tasks
Click one of the Internet buttons to join an interactive ThinkPad Web
community, or to directly access information about accessories and software
updates, small business offerings, and help and support.
Finding information with Access ThinkPad vii

Some of the topics in your help system contain brief video clips that show
you how to perform certain tasks, such as replacing your battery, inserting a
PC card, or upgrading your memory. Use the controls shown to play, pause,
and rewind the video clip.
viii ThinkPad
®
X Series Service and Troubleshooting Guide

Contents
Important Notice for Users.......iii
The FCC RF Safety Requirement .....iii
Finding information with Access ThinkPad v
Chapter 1. Overview of your new ThinkPad
computer.............1
Your ThinkPad at a glance .......2
Features..............3
Specifications ............4
Caring for your ThinkPad computer ....5
Chapter 2. Solving computer problems . . 9
Diagnosing problems .........10
Troubleshooting...........11
Errormessages..........11
Errors without messages .......14
Apasswordproblem........15
A power switch problem .......16
Keyboard problems ........16
Infraredportproblems.......17
TrackPoint problems ........18
Standby or hibernation problems ....19
Computerscreenproblems......22
Batteryproblems.........23
Harddiskdriveproblems......24
Softwareproblems.........24
Bluetoothproblem.........25
Otherproblems...........25
Starting BIOS Setup Utility .......27
Recover pre-installed software ......28
Backing up your system ........29
Backing up your registry.......29
Replacingtheharddiskdrive......31
Replacing the battery .........33
Install a memory module .......34
Chapter 3. Getting help and service from
IBM...............37
Getting help and service ........38
Getting help on the Web ........38
Getting help by fax .........39
Calling IBM ............39
Getting help around the world......41
Appendix A. Important safety instructions 43
Modem safety information .......45
Lasercompliancestatement.......46
Appendix B. Warranty information ....49
Warranty period ..........49
Warranty service and support ......49
Before you call for service ......50
Calling for service .........50
IBM Statement of Limited Warranty
Z125-4753-06 8/2000 .........50
Part1-GeneralTerms.......50
Part 2 - Country-unique Terms .....54
Appendix C. Notices.........63
Notices..............63
Processing date data ........64
Trademarks...........64
Electronic emission notices ......65
Telecommunication notices ......66
Notice for Australia ........69
Notice for New Zealand Users .....69
Notice for European Union countries. . . 74
Wireless Interoperability .......76
Usage environment and your Health. . . 76
Appendix D. Wireless Regulatory
information............77
USA - Federal Communications Commission
(FCC) ..............77
Canada - Industry Canada (IC)......78
Europe - CE Declaration of Conformity . . . 78
Notice for Users in Singapore ......83
Trademarks............83
Index ..............85
© Copyright IBM Corp. 2001 ix

xThinkPad
®
X Series Service and Troubleshooting Guide

Chapter 1. Overview of your new ThinkPad computer
Your ThinkPad at a glance .......2
Features..............3
Specifications ............4
Caring for your ThinkPad computer ....5
© Copyright IBM Corp. 2001 1

Your ThinkPad at a glance
Front view
Rear view
Security keyhole
Power jack
Monitor connector
USB connector
Stereo line-in jac k
Ethernet connector
Modem connector
Your ThinkPad at a glance
2ThinkPad
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X Series Service and Troubleshooting Guide

Features
Processor
Intel
®
Mobile PentiumIII-M Processor
Memory
Built-in: 128MB
Maximum:
640MB for 128MB memory
Storage devices
2.5-inch hard disk drive
Display
The color display uses TFT technology
1. XGA
vUp to 1024-by-768 resolution on the 12.1-inch LCD
vUp to 1600-by-1200 resolution on an external monitor
vBrightness control
Keyboard
85-key, 86-key, or 90-key
TrackPoint
®
pointing device
Fn key function
ThinkPad Button
Volume buttons
Your ThinkPad at a glance
Chapter 1. Overview of your new ThinkPad computer 3

External interface
External-monitor connector
PC Card slot (Type I, Type II, Type II Plus)
Type II Compact Flash slot
Headphone jack, Microphone jack (supports a condenser microphone with the
type of connector that is shown circled in the following illustration)
Line-in jack
Universal Serial Bus (USB) connector
Telephone connector (available if the modem Mini-PCI Card or the Combo
Mini-PCI Card is installed)
Ethernet connector (available if the Ethernet Mini-PCI Card or the Combo
Mini-PCI Card is installed)
UltraPort connector to support an optional IBM digital camera
UltraBase X2 connector
IrDA port
Wireless LAN Interface
Specifications
Size
With a 12.1-inch display:
–Width: 279.4 mm
–Depth: 226.8 mm
–Height: 24.9-30.2 mm
Environment
Temperature (at altitudes less than 2438 m (8000 ft.)):
–Operating: 5°Cto35°C (41°Fto95°F)
Your ThinkPad at a glance
4ThinkPad
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X Series Service and Troubleshooting Guide

–Non-operating: -20°Cto60°C (-4°Fto140°F)
Note: When you charge the battery pack, its temperature must be at least
10°C (50°F).
Relative humidity:
–Operating: 8% to 90%
–Non-operating: 5% to 95%
Maximum altitude: 3048 m (10,000 ft.) in unpressurized conditions
–Maximum temperature at 3048 m (10,000 ft.): 31°C (88°F)
Electrical (AC Adapter)
Sine-wave input, at 50 to 60 Hz is required
The input rating of the AC Adapter: 100-240 V ac, 50/60 Hz
Lithium-ion battery pack
Nominal voltage Capacity
14.4 V dc 1.8 AH
10.8 V dc 3.9 AH
Caring for your ThinkPad computer
Though your computer is designed to function reliably in normal work
environments, you need to use common sense in handling it. By following
these important tips, you will get the most use and enjoyment out of your
computer.
Important tips:
Be careful about where and how you work
vDo not leave the base of your computer in contact with your lap or any
part of your body for an extended period when the computer is functioning
or when the battery is charging. Your computer dissipates some heat during
normal operation. This heat is a function of the level of system activity and
battery charge level. Extended contact with your body, even through
clothing, could cause discomfort or, eventually, a skin burn.
vPlace liquids away from your computer to avoid spills, and keep your
computer away from water (to avoid the danger of electrical shock).
vStore packing materials safely out of the reach of children to prevent the
risk of suffocation from plastic bags.
vKeep your computer away from magnets, activated cellular phones,
electrical appliances, or speakers (within 13cm/5 in).
Your ThinkPad at a glance
Chapter 1. Overview of your new ThinkPad computer 5

vAvoid subjecting your computer to extreme temperatures (below 5°C/41°F
or above 35°C/95°F).
Be gentle with your computer
vAvoid placing any objects (including paper) between the display and the
keyboard or under the keyboard.
vDo not drop, bump, scratch, twist, hit, vibrate, push or place heavy objects
on your computer, display, or external devices.
vYour computer display is designed to be opened and used at an angle
slightly greater than 90 degrees. Do not open the display beyond 135
degrees, as this might damage the computer hinge.
Carry your computer properly
vBefore moving your computer, be sure to remove any media, turn off
attached devices, and disconnect cords and cables.
vBe sure your computer is in standby or hibernation mode, or turned off,
before moving it. This will prevent damage to the hard disk drive and data
loss.
vWhen picking up your open computer, hold it by the bottom. Do not pick
up or hold your computer by the display.
vUse a quality carrying case that provides adequate cushion and protection.
Do not pack your computer in a tightly packed suitcase or bag.
Handle storage media and drives properly
vIf your computer comes with a diskette drive, avoid inserting diskettes at
an angle and attaching multiple or loose diskette labels, as these can lodge
in the drive.
vIf your computer comes with a CD or DVD drive, do not touch the surface
of a CD or the lens on the CD or DVD tray.
vWait until you hear the CD or DVD click into the center pivot of the CD or
DVD drive before closing the CD or DVD tray.
vWhen installing your hard disk, diskette, CD, or DVD drive, follow the
instructions shipped with your hardware, and apply pressure only where
needed on the device. See Access ThinkPad, your on-board help system, for
information on replacing your hard disk drive (open Access ThinkPad by
pressing the ThinkPad button).
Take care in setting passwords
vRemember your passwords. If you forget a supervisor or hard disk
password, IBM will not reset it, and you might have to replace your system
board or hard disk drive.
Other important tips
Caring for your ThinkPad computer
6ThinkPad
®
X Series Service and Troubleshooting Guide

vYour computer modem might use only an analog telephone network, or
public-switched telephone network (PSTN). Do not connect the modem to a
PBX (private branch exchange) or any other digital telephone extension line
because this could damage your modem. Analog phone lines are often used
in homes, while digital phone lines are often used in hotels or office
buildings. If you are not sure which kind of phone line you are using,
contact your telephone company.
vYour computer might have both an Ethernet connector and a modem
connector. If so, be sure to connect your communication cable to the correct
one, so your connector is not damaged. See Access ThinkPad, your
on-board help system, for information on the location of these connectors
(press the ThinkPad button to open Access ThinkPad).
vRegister your ThinkPad products with IBM (refer to the Web page:
www.pc.ibm.com/register). This can help authorities return your computer
to you if it is lost or stolen. Registering your computer also enables IBM to
notify you about possible technical information and upgrades.
vOnly an authorized IBM ThinkPad repair technician should disassemble
and repair your computer.
vDo not modify or tape the latches to keep the display open or closed.
vTake care not to turn your computer over while the ac adapter is plugged
in. This could break the adapter plug.
vTurn off your computer if you are replacing a device in a device bay, or else
verify that the device is warm- or hot-swappable.
vIf you exchange drives in your computer, reinstall the plastic bezel faces (if
supplied).
vStore your external and removable hard disk, diskette, CD, and DVD drives
in the appropriate containers or packaging when they are not being used.
Cleaning your computer
Occasionally clean your computer as follows:
vUse a soft cloth moistened with nonalkaline detergent to wipe the exterior
of the computer.
vAvoid spraying cleaner directly on the display or the keyboard.
vGently wipe the display with a dry, soft cloth.
Caring for your ThinkPad computer
Chapter 1. Overview of your new ThinkPad computer 7

Caring for your ThinkPad computer
8ThinkPad
®
X Series Service and Troubleshooting Guide

Chapter 2. Solving computer problems
Diagnosing problems .........10
Troubleshooting...........11
Errormessages..........11
Errors without messages .......14
Apasswordproblem........15
A power switch problem .......16
Keyboard problems ........16
Infraredportproblems.......17
TrackPoint problems ........18
Standby or hibernation problems ....19
Computerscreenproblems......22
Batteryproblems.........23
Harddiskdriveproblems......24
Softwareproblems.........24
Bluetoothproblem.........25
Otherproblems...........25
Starting BIOS Setup Utility .......27
Recover pre-installed software ......28
Backing up your system ........29
Backing up your registry.......29
Replacingtheharddiskdrive......31
Replacing the battery .........33
Install a memory module .......34
© Copyright IBM Corp. 2001 9

Diagnosing problems
If you have a problem with your computer, you can test it by using
PC-Doctor
®
for Windows
®
. To run PC-Doctor for Windows, do as follows:
1. Click Start.
2. Move the cursor to Programs(in Windows XP, All Programs) and then to
PC-Doctor for Windows.
3. Click PC-Doctor for Windows.
4. Choose either the Run Quick Test Set or the Run Normal Test Set.
Attention
Running the Quick Test set can take 10 minutes or longer. Make sure
you have time to run the entire test; do not interrupt the test while it is
running.
The Quick Test set runs many tests of critical hardware components, but it
does not run all of the diagnostic tests in PC-Doctor for Windows. If
PC-Doctor for Windows reports that all of the tests in the Quick Test set have
been run and that it has found no problems, consider running more of the
tests.
If you are preparing to contact IBM for support, be sure to print the test log
so that you can rapidly provide information to the help technician.
Solving computer problems
10 ThinkPad
®
X Series Service and Troubleshooting Guide