Lenovo IdeaCentre A300 Owner's manual

Contents
i
Contents
Chapter 1. About this manual................................................ 1
Important Safety Information ...................................................................... 1
Using eSupport.................................................................................................... 2
Important information about replacing RoHS compliant FRUs ..2
Chapter 2. Safety information................................................ 4
General safety....................................................................................................... 4
Electrical safety ....................................................................................................5
Safety inspection guide...................................................................................7
Handling electrostatic discharge-sensitive devices .........................8
Grounding requirements ...............................................................................8
Safety notices........................................................................................................9
Chapter 3. General information...........................................12
Specifications..................................................................................................... 12
Chapter 4. General Checkout ...............................................13
Problem determination tips ...................................................................... 14
Chapter 5. Using the Setup Utility ......................................15
Starting the Setup Utility program ......................................................... 15
Viewing and changing settings................................................................ 15
Using passwords .............................................................................................. 16
Using Device ...................................................................................................... 18
Selecting a startup device........................................................................... 19
Exiting from the Setup Utility program ................................................ 19

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Chapter 6. Symptom-to-FRU Index.....................................20
Hard disk drive boot error ........................................................................... 20
POST error codes ............................................................................................. 21
Undetermined problems ............................................................................. 22
Chapter 7. Locations...............................................................23
Locating components and connectors................................................. 23
Chapter 8. Replacing hardware ...........................................28
General information ....................................................................................... 28
Removing the hinge cover.......................................................................... 29
Removing the hinge from LED panel..................................................... 30
Removing the base top cover ................................................................... 30
Removing the motherboard cover ......................................................... 31
Replacing the hard disk drive .................................................................... 31
Removing the hinge from the base bottom ...................................... 33
Replacing the system fan............................................................................. 34
Replacing the heatsink.................................................................................. 35
Replacing the bluetooth module ............................................................ 36
Replacing a memory module .................................................................... 37
Replacing the TV tuner card ...................................................................... 38
Replacing the WLAN card ........................................................................... 39
Replacing the motherboard....................................................................... 40
Removing the rear cover.............................................................................. 41
Replacing the LED panel .............................................................................. 43
Replacing the invert board ......................................................................... 44
Replacing the camera.................................................................................... 45
Replacing the keyboard ............................................................................... 46
Replacing the mouse ..................................................................................... 47
Replacing the power adapter.................................................................... 48
Chapter 9. Additional Service Information.......................49
Power management ...................................................................................... 49
Appendix. Statement .............................................................50

Chapter 1. About this manual
1
About this manual 1
This manual contains service and reference information for Lenovo
IdeaCentre A3 computers listed on the cover. It is intended only for
trained servicers who are familiar with Lenovo computer products.
Before servicing a Lenovo product, be sure to read the Safety Information.
The description of the TV card in this manual is only used for the machines
which have the TV card. It is invalid for those machines which do not have
TV card.
Important Safety Information
Be sure to read all caution and danger statements in this book before
performing any of the instructions.
Veuillez lire toutes les consignes de type DANGER et ATTENTION du
présent document avant d’exécuter les instructions.
Lesen Sie unbedingt alle Hinweise vom Typ “ACHTUNG” oder “VORSICHT”
in dieser Dokumentation, bevor Sie irgendwelche Vorgänge durchführen
Leggere le istruzioni introdotte da ATTENZIONE e PERICOLO presenti nel
manuale prima di eseguire una qualsiasi delle istruzioni
Certifique-se de ler todas as instruções de cuidado e perigo neste manual
antes de executar qualquer uma das instruções
Es importante que lea todas las declaraciones de precaución y de peligro
de este manual antes de seguir las instrucciones.
执行任何说明之前，请确保已阅读本书中的所有警告和危险声明。

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Using eSupport
For Key Commodities (Examples - hard disk drive, system board,
microprocessor, LCD, and memory)
eSupport can be used to view the list of key commodities built in a•
particular machine serial.
eSupport can be accessed at the following Web site:•
http://consumersupport.lenovo.com
To view the key commodities:•
1. Click Parts information.
2. Under Parts information, click Parts lookup.
3. Under Parts lookup, type the model type and serial number; then
click Continue.
The key commodities are returned in the eSupport record under
Parts shipped with your system.
For the remaining FRUs (the complete list of FRUs at the MT Model level)
eSupport can be used to view the complete list of FRUs for a machine•
type and model.
To view the complete list of FRUs for a machine type:•
1. Point your browser to http://consumersupport.lenovo.com.
2. Type the machine type (Example: 8129) in the Use Quick Path field;
then click Go.
3. Under Browse by product, click Continue.
4. Under Important information, click Parts information.
5. In the Refine results field, select Service parts; then click the entry for
your machine type.
The list of service parts by description, with applicable machine type
model and FRU part number is displayed.
Important information about replacing RoHS compliant FRUs
RoHS, The Restriction of Hazardous Substances in Electrical and
Electronic Equipment Directive (2002/95/EC) is a European Union
legal requirement affecting the global electronics industry. RoHS
requirements must be implemented on Lenovo products placed on the
market after June 2006. Products on the market before June 2006 are
not required to have RoHS compliant parts.
So, if the parts are not compliant originally, replacement parts can
also be noncompliant, but in all cases, if the parts are compliant, the
replacement parts must also be compliant.
Lenovo plans to transition to RoHS compliance well before the

Chapter 1. About this manual
3
implementation date and expects its suppliers to be ready to support
Lenovo’s requirements and schedule. Products sold in 2005, will contain
some RoHS compliant FRUs. The following statement pertains to these
products and any product Lenovo produces containing RoHS compliant
parts.
RoHS compliant Lenovo IdeaCentre A3 parts have unique FRU part
numbers. Before or after June, 2006, failed RoHS compliant parts must
always be replaced using RoHS compliant FRUs, so only the FRUs
identified as compliant in the system HMM or direct substitutions for
those FRUs can be used.
Products marketed before June 2006 Products marketed after June 2006
Current or
original part
Replacement
FRU
Current or
original part
Replacement
FRU
Non-RoHS Can be Non-RoHS Must be RoHS Must be RoHS
Non-RoHS Can be RoHS
Non-RoHS Can sub to RoHS
RoHS Must be RoHS
Note: A direct substitution is a part with a different FRU part number that
is automatically shipped by the distribution center at the time of
order.
Related Web URLs are:
Lenovo information for Suppliers website:•
http://www-03.ibm.com/procurement/proweb.nsf/
ContentDocsByTitle/United+States~Information+for+suppliers
RoHS Directive:•
http://europa.eu.int/eur-lex/pri/en/oj/dat/2003/l_037/
l_03720030213en00190023.pdf
California Senate Bills 20, 50:•
http://www.ciwmb.ca.gov/HHW/Events/AnnualConf/2004/
presentation/MPaparian.pdf

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Safety information 2
This chapter contains the safety information that you need to be familiar
with before servicing a computer.
General safety
Follow these rules to ensure general safety:
Observe good housekeeping in the area of the machines during and•
after maintenance.
When lifting any heavy object:•
1. Ensure you can stand safely without slipping.
2. Distribute the weight of the object equally between your feet.
3. Use a slow lifting force. Never move suddenly or twist when you
attempt to lift.
4. Lift by standing or by pushing up with your leg muscles; this action
removes the strain from the muscles in your back. Do not attempt to
lift any objects that weigh more than 16 kg (35 lb) or objects that you
think are too heavy for you.
Do not perform any action that causes hazards to the customer, or that•
makes the equipment unsafe.
Before you start the machine, ensure that other service representatives•
and the customer’s personnel are not in a hazardous position.
Place removed covers and other parts in a safe place, away from all•
personnel, while you are servicing the machine.
Keep your tool case away from walk areas so that other people will not•
trip over it.
Do not wear loose clothing that can be trapped in the moving parts of a•
machine. Ensure that your sleeves are fastened or rolled up above your
elbows. If your hair is long, fasten it.
Insert the ends of your necktie or scarf inside clothing or fasten it with•
a nonconductive clip, approximately 8 centimeters (3 inches) from the
end.
Do not wear jewelry, chains, metal-frame eyeglasses, or metal fasteners•
for your clothing.
Remember: Metal objects are good electrical conductors.

Chapter 2. Safety information
5
Wear safety glasses when you are: hammering, drilling soldering,•
cutting wire, attaching springs, using solvents, or working in any other
conditions that might be hazardous to your eyes.
After service, reinstall all safety shields, guards, labels, and ground wires.•
Replace any safety device that is worn or defective.
Reinstall all covers correctly before returning the machine to the•
customer.
Electrical safety
CAUTION:
Electrical current from power, telephone, and communication cables
can be hazardous. To avoid personal injury or equipment damage,
disconnect the attached power cords, telecommunication systems,
networks, and modems before you open the server/workstation covers,
unless instructed otherwise in the installation and configuration
procedures.
Observe the following rules when working on electrical equipment.
Important: Use only approved tools and test equipment. Some hand
tools have handles covered with a soft material that does not
insulate you when working with live electrical currents.
Many customers have, near their equipment, rubber floor mats
that contain small conductive fibers to decrease electrostatic
discharges. Do not use this type of mat to protect yourself
from electrical shock.
Find the room emergency power-off (EPO) switch, disconnecting•
switch, or electrical outlet. If an electrical accident occurs, you can then
operate the switch or unplug the power cord quickly.
Do not work alone under hazardous conditions or near equipment that•
has hazardous voltages.
Disconnect all power before:•
– Performing a mechanical inspection
– Working near power supplies
– Removing or installing main units
Before you start to work on the machine, unplug the power cord. If•
you cannot unplug it, ask the customer to power-off the wall box
that supplies power to the machine and to lock the wall box in the off
position.

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If you need to work on a machine that has exposed electrical circuits,•
observe the following precautions:
– Ensure that another person, familiar with the power-off controls, is
near you.
Remember: Another person must be there to switch off the power, if
necessary.
– Use only one hand when working with powered-on electrical
equipment; keep the other hand in your pocket or behind your back.
Remember: There must be a complete circuit to cause electrical
shock. By observing the above rule, you may prevent a current from
passing through your body.
– When using testers, set the controls correctly and use the approved
probe leads and accessories for that tester.
– Stand on suitable rubber mats (obtained locally, if necessary) to
insulate you from grounds such as metal floor strips and machine
frames.
Observe the special safety precautions when you work with very
high voltages; these instructions are in the safety sections of
maintenance information. Use extreme care when measuring high
voltages.
Regularly inspect and maintain your electrical hand tools for safe•
operational condition.
Do not use worn or broken tools and testers.•
Never assume•that power has been disconnected from a circuit. First,
check that it has been powered-off.
Always look carefully for possible hazards in your work area. Examples•
of these hazards are moist floors, nongrounded power extension cables,
power surges, and missing safety grounds.
Do not touch live electrical circuits with the reflective surface of a•
plastic dental mirror. The surface is conductive; such touching can
cause personal injury and machine damage.
Do not service the following parts with the power on when they are•
removed from their normal operating places in a machine:
– Power supply units
– Pumps
– Blowers and fans
– Motor generators
and similar units. (This practice ensures correct grounding of the units.)
If an electrical accident occurs:•
– Use caution; do not become a victim yourself.
– Switch off power.
– Send another person to get medical aid.

Chapter 2. Safety information
7
Safety inspection guide
The intent of this inspection guide is to assist you in identifying potentially
unsafe conditions on these products. Each machine, as it was designed
and built, had required safety items installed to protect users and service
personnel from injury. This guide addresses only those items. However,
good judgment should be used to identify potential safety hazards due to
attachment of features or options not covered by this inspection guide.
If any unsafe conditions are present, you must determine how serious the
apparent hazard could be and whether you can continue without first
correcting the problem.
Consider these conditions and the safety hazards they present:
Electrical hazards, especially primary power (primary voltage on the•
frame can cause serious or fatal electrical shock).
Explosive hazards, such as a damaged CRT face or bulging capacitor•
Mechanical hazards, such as loose or missing hardware•
The guide consists of a series of steps presented in a checklist. Begin the
checks with the power off, and the power cord disconnected.
Checklist:
1. Check exterior covers for damage (loose, broken, or sharp edges).
2. Power-off the computer. Disconnect the power cord.
3. Check the power cord for:
a. A third-wire ground connector in good condition. Use a meter to
measure third-wire ground continuity for 0.1 ohm or less between
the external ground pin and frame ground.
b. The power cord should be the appropriate type as specified in the
parts listings.
c. Insulation must not be frayed or worn.
4. Remove the cover.
5. Check for any obvious alterations. Use good judgment as to the safety
of any alterations.
6. Check inside the unit for any obvious unsafe conditions, such as metal
filings, contamination, water or other liquids, or signs of fire or smoke
damage.
7. Check for worn, frayed, or pinched cables.
8. Check that the power-supply cover fasteners (screws or rivets) have not
been removed or tampered with.

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Handling electrostatic discharge-sensitive devices
Any computer part containing transistors or integrated circuits (ICs)
should be considered sensitive to electrostatic discharge (ESD). ESD
damage can occur when there is a difference in charge between objects.
Protect against ESD damage by equalizing the charge so that the machine,
the part, the work mat, and the person handling the part are all at the
same charge.
Notes:
1. Use product-specific ESD procedures when they exceed the
requirements noted here.
2. Make sure that the ESD protective devices you use have been certified
(ISO 9000) as fully effective.
When handling ESD-sensitive parts:
Keep the parts in protective packages until they are inserted into the•
product.
Avoid contact with other people.•
Wear a grounded wrist strap against your skin to eliminate static on•
your body.
Prevent the part from touching your clothing. Most clothing is insulative•
and retains a charge even when you are wearing a wrist strap.
Use the black side of a grounded work mat to provide a static-free•
work surface. The mat is especially useful when handling ESD-sensitive
devices.
Select a grounding system, such as those listed below, to provide•
protection that meets the specific service requirement.
Note: The use of a grounding system is desirable but not required to
protect against ESD damage.
– Attach the ESD ground clip to any frame ground, ground braid, or
green-wire ground.
– Use an ESD common ground or reference point when working on a
double-insulated or battery-operated system. You can use coax or
connector-outside shells on these systems.
– Use the round ground-prong of the ac plug on ac-operated
computers.
Grounding requirements
Electrical grounding of the computer is required for operator safety and
correct system function. Proper grounding of the electrical outlet can be
verified by a certified electrician.