Lenovo ThinkCentre M715t Owner's manual

M715t
User Guide and
Hardware Maintenance Manual
Machine Type (MT):
10MD, 10ME
Energy Star MT:
10MD, 10ME
Overview
Locations of indicators,
connectors, and
controls provided on
your computer
Replacing hardware
Locations of the
replaceable parts on
your computer
Specications
Specications of your
computer
Replacing FRUs
Replacing instructions
for Field Replaceable
Units (FRUs) (for
technicians only)
Locking the computer
Locking devices for
your computer
Replacing CRUs
Replacing instructions
for Customer
Replaceable Units
(CRUs)

2
Overview.........................................3
Front view.......................................................................3
Rear view........................................................................4
System board ................................................................ 6
Machine type and model label................................... 8
Specications.................................9
Locking the computer...................11
Locking the computer cover.....................................11
Attaching a Kensington-style cable lock................11
Attaching a cable lock ...............................................11
Replacing hardware......................12
Before replacing hardware........................................12
Handling static-sensitive devices............................12
Knowing replaceable parts.......................................13
Customer-Replaceable Units (CRUs)...........................13
Field Replaceable Units (FRUs)..................................... 13
CRUs and FRUs locations ..............................................14
Replacing CRUs ............................17
Before replacing CRUs ..............................................17
Replacing external options .......................................19
Removing the computer cover ................................20
Replacing the front bezel ..........................................21
Replacing the optical drive........................................22
Replacing the optical drive bracket.........................23
Pivoting the drive bay assembly upward and
downward ....................................................................24
Replacing the storage drive......................................25
Replacing the 3.5-inch storage drive............................ 25
Replacing the 2.5-inch storage drive............................ 27
Replacing a memory module ...................................28
Replacing a PCI Express card ..................................29
Replacing the Wi-Fi card ...........................................30
Replacing the coin-cell battery.................................32
Replacing the M.2 solid-state drive.........................33
Replacing the M.2 solid-state drive bracket ..........35
Replacing the power supply assembly...................36
Completing the parts replacement .........................37
Replacing FRUs ............................38
Before replacing FRUs...............................................38
Replacing the Wi-Fi antennas ..................................40
Replacing the internal speaker.................................42
Replacing the front fan..............................................43
Replacing the thermal sensor..................................44
Replacing the illuminated red dot............................45
Replacing front I/O options ......................................46
Replacing the heat sink and fan assembly............48
Replacing the microprocessor.................................49
Replacing the rear fan................................................51
Replacing the cover presence switch.....................52
Replacing the system board.....................................53
Notices & Trademarks ..................55
Notices .........................................................................55
Trademarks..................................................................56
Contents

Overview 3
Overview
Front view
Note Your computer model might look slightly different from the illustration.
1Optical drive eject/close button
Used to eject the tray of the optical drive. After you insert a disc
into the tray, press the eject/close button to close the tray.
2Optical drive status indicator
This indicator is on when the optical drive is in use.
3Internal speaker (optional)
Used to listen to the sounds from your computer without using a
headset or headphones.
4Storage drive status indicator
This indicator is on when the storage drive is in use.
5Card reader slot (optional)
Used to read data from a supported memory card.
6Power button
Used to turn on your computer. When you cannot shut down the
computer from the operating system, press and hold the power
button for four or more seconds to turn off the computer.
7Power indicator
This indicator is on when the computer is on.
8Microphone connector
Used to connect a microphone to your computer. You can use the
microphone to record sounds or interact with the computer using
speech-recognition software.
9Headphone connector
Used to connect headphones to your computer.
10 USB 3.1 connectors (2)
Used to connect a USB-compatible device. For optimal data
transfer, connect a USB 3.1 device to a USB 3.1 connector instead
of a USB 3.0 or USB 2.0 connector.
11 USB 3.0 connectors (2)
Used to connect a USB-compatible device. For optimal data
transfer, connect a USB 3.0 device to a USB 3.1 or USB 3.0
connector instead of a USB 2.0 connector.
12 Illuminated red dot
This indicator is on when the computer is on.

Overview 4
Rear view
Note Your computer model might look slightly different from the illustration.
1Microphone connector
Used to connect a microphone to your computer when you want
to record sound or use speech recognition software.
2VGA-out connector
Used to send video signals from the computer to another video
device, such as a monitor.
3DisplayPort®-out connectors (2)
Used to send audio and video signals from the computer to
another audio or video device, such as a high-performance
monitor.
4USB 3.0 connectors (2)
Used to connect a USB-compatible device. For optimal data
transfer, connect a USB 3.0 device to a USB 3.1 or USB 3.0
connector instead of a USB 2.0 connector.
5USB 2.0 connectors (2)
Used to connect a device that requires a USB 2.0 connection.
6PS/2 keyboard connector
Used to connect a keyboard that uses a Personal System/2 (PS/2)
keyboard connector.
7Audio line-out connector
Used to send audio signals from the computer to external devices,
such as powered stereo speakers, headphones, or multimedia
keyboards. To connect a stereo system or other external recording
device, connect a cable between the audio line-in connector of the
device and the audio line-out connector of the computer.
Note
If your computer has both an audio line-out connector and a headset
or headphone connector, always use the headset connector or
headphone connector for earphones, headphones, or a headset. The
headphone connector does not support headset microphones.

Overview 5
8Audio line-in connector
Used to receive audio signals from an external audio device, such
as a stereo system. To attach an external audio device, connect a
cable between the audio line-out connector of the device and the
audio line-in connector of the computer.
9Serial connector
Used to connect an external modem, a serial printer, or other
devices that use a serial connector.
10 Serial connector (optional)
Used to connect an external modem, a serial printer, or other
devices that use a serial connector.
11 Ethernet connector
Used to connect an Ethernet cable for network access.
12 PS/2 mouse connector
Used to connect a mouse, a trackball, or other pointing devices
that use a PS/2 mouse connector.
13 Cable lock slots (2)
Used to secure a cable lock.
14 PCI-Express card area
To improve the operating performance of the computer, you
can connect PCI-Express cards into this area. Depending on the
computer model, the connectors in this area vary.
15 Padlock loop
Used to secure a padlock.
16 Security-lock slot
Used to secure a Kensington-style cable lock.
17 Power cord connector
Used to connect the power cord to your computer for power
supply.

Overview 6
System board
Note See Front view or Rear view for additional component descriptions.
14-pin power connector
2Microprocessor fan connector
3Internal speaker connector
4Storage drive status indicator
5Power button board connector
6SATA power connectors (2)
710-pin power connector
8SATA 3.0 connectors (3)
9Auxiliary fan connector 1
10 Illuminated red dot connector
11 Thermal sensor connector
12 M.2 solid-state drive slot
13 Front USB 2.0 connector
(Card reader connector)
14 Front USB 2.0 connector

Overview 7
15 Parallel connector
16 Serial (COM2) connector
17 Buzzer
18 PCI Express x1 card slots (2)
19 PCI Express x16 graphics card slot
20 System fan connector
21 Microprocessor socket
22 Memory slot (DIMM1)
23 Memory slot (DIMM2)
24 Memory slot (DIMM3)
25 Memory slot (DIMM4)
26 Coin-cell battery
27 PCH
28 M.2 Wi-Fi card slot
29 Cover presence switch connector
(Intrusion switch connector)

Overview 8
Machine type and model label
The machine type and model label identies the computer. When you contact Lenovo for help, the machine
type and model information helps support technicians to identify the computer and provide faster service.
The machine type and model label is attached on the side of the computer as shown.

Specications 9
Specications
Power supply •180 watt automatic voltage-sensing power supply
•210 watt automatic voltage-sensing power supply
Storage drives Up to two 2.5-inch or 3.5-inch storage drives and one M.2 solid-state drive
Video features The integrated graphics card supports the following:
••DisplayPort-out connector
•VGA-out connector
Audio features The integrated audio card supports the following:
•Audio line-in connector
•Audio line-out connector
•Headphone connector
•Internal speaker (optional)
•Microphone connector
The optional discrete audio card provides an enhanced audio experience and
extended capabilities.
Input/Output (I/O) features •Audio connectors (audio line-in, audio line-out, headphone, and
microphone)
•Card reader slot (optional)
•Display connectors (DisplayPort-out and VGA-out)
•Ethernet connector
•PS/2 keyboard connector
•PS/2 mouse connector
•Serial connector
•USB connector
Expansion •Card reader (optional)
•Memory slot
•Optical drive
•PCI Express x1 card slot
•PCI Express x16 graphics card slot
•Storage drive bay

Specications 10
Network features •Ethernet LAN
•Wireless LAN (optional)
•Bluetooth (optional)
Physical dimensions •Width: 145.0 mm (5.7 inches)
•Height: 366.0 mm (14.4 inches)
•Depth: 292.7 mm (11.5 inches)
Weight (without the package) •Maximum conguration as shipped: 6.5 kg (14.3 lb)

Locking the computer 11
Locking the computer
Locking the computer cover
Locking the computer cover helps prevent unauthorized access
to the inside of your computer. Your computer features a padlock
loop so that the computer cover cannot be removed when a
padlock is installed.
Attaching a Kensington-style cable lock
You can use a Kensington-style cable lock to secure your
computer to a desk, table, or other nonpermanent xture. The
cable lock connects to the security-lock slot at the rear of your
computer. Depending on the type selected, the cable lock can be
operated with a key or combination. The cable lock also locks the
buttons used to open the computer cover. This is the same type
of lock used with many notebook computers. You can order such
a cable lock directly from Lenovo by searching for Kensington at:
http://www.lenovo.com/support.
Attaching a cable lock
A cable lock can be used to secure devices, such as the keyboard
and the mouse, by locking the device cables to the computer.
The cable lock connects to the cable-lock slots on the rear of the
computer.
To install a cable lock, do the following:
1 Insert the clip 1into the cable-lock slot 4.
2 Guide the cables you want to lock into the grooves of the
cable lock.
3 Press the clip 2into the cable-lock slot 3until it snaps into
position.

Replacing hardware 12
Replacing hardware
Before replacing hardware
Attention Do not open your computer or attempt any repairs before reading the Important
Product Information Guide.
Read these notes before replacing hardware:
• Some of the hardware components explained in this manual are optional.
• Use computer components provided only by Lenovo.
• When installing or replacing an option, use the appropriate instructions explained in this manual along
with the instructions that come with the option.
• In most areas of the world, Lenovo requires the return of defective CRUs. Information about this will come
with the CRU or will come a few days after the CRU arrives.
Handling static-sensitive devices
Do not open the static-protective package containing the new component until the defective component
has been removed and you are ready to install the new component. Static electricity, although harmless to
you, can seriously damage computer components.
When you handle parts and other computer components, take these precautions to avoid static damage:
• Limit your movement. Movement can cause static electricity to build up around you.
• Always handle parts and other computer components carefully. Handle PCI/PCI-Express cards, memory
modules, system boards, and microprocessors by the edges. Never touch any exposed circuitry.
• Prevent others from touching the parts and other computer components.
• Touch the static-protective package containing the part to a metal expansion-slot cover or other
unpainted metal surface on the computer for at least two seconds. This reduces static electricity from
the package and your body before you install or replace a new part.
• When possible, remove the new part from the static-protective package, and install it directly in the
computer without 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 the package.
• Do not place the part on the computer cover or other metal surface.

Replacing hardware 13
Knowing replaceable parts
Customer-Replaceable Units (CRUs)
CRUs are computer parts that a user can upgrade or replace. There are two types of CRUs: self-service and
optional-service.
Self-service CRUs You can install self-service CRUs easily. These CRUs might be standalone,
latched, or secured by up to two screws.
Examples of self-service CRUs include the keyboard, mouse, any USB
device, and the power cord. Other self-service CRUs might include memory
modules, adapter cards, hard disk drives, and optical drives.
Note Users are responsible for replacing all self-service CRUs.
Optional-service
CRUs
Handling optional-service CRUs requires some technical skills and simple
tools (such as a screwdriver).
These CRUs are isolated parts within the computer. They are usually
concealed by an access panel that is secured by more than two screws. You
must remove the screws and panel to access the specic CRU.
Optional-service CRUs can be removed and installed by users or, during the
warranty period, by a Lenovo service technician.
Field Replaceable Units (FRUs)
FRUs are computer parts that a trained technician can upgrade or replace.
For detailed FRU information, such as the FRU part numbers and supported computer models, go to:
http://www.lenovo.com/serviceparts-lookup

Replacing hardware 14
CRUs and FRUs locations
Refer to the following illustrations to check the locations of CRUs and FRUs within the computer.
Note Some of the following parts are optional on some models.
Self-service CRU
1Computer cover p. 20
6Coin-cell battery p. 32
8Memory module p. 28
10 M.2 solid-state drive p. 33
11
M.2 solid-state drive bracket p. 35
15 Optical drive bracket p. 23
21 Optical drive p. 22
22 Front bezel p. 21
23 Dust shield p. 19
24 Keyboard
25 Mouse
26 Power cord
28 Storage converter p. 25
30 Primary or secondary storage
drive (a 2.5-inch or 3.5-inch
storage drive) p. 25
34 PCI Express card p. 29

Replacing hardware 15
Optional-service CRU
4Wi-Fi card p. 30
5Wi-Fi card shield p. 30
32
Power supply assembly p. 36

Replacing hardware 16
FRU
2Heat sink and fan assembly
p. 48
3Rear fan p. 51
7Microprocessor p. 49
9System board p. 53
12 Power button board p. 46
13 Optical drive cable
14 Card reader p. 46
16 Front I/O bracket p. 46
17 Internal speaker p. 42
18 Wi-Fi antennas (2) p. 40
19 Illuminated red dot p. 45
20 Thermal sensor p. 44
27 Storage drive rubber
cushions (4)
29 Storage drive cable
31 Front fan p. 43
33 Chassis
35 Cover presence switch
(Intrusion switch) p. 52

Replacing CRUs 17
Replacing CRUs
Before replacing CRUs
To check the locations of CRUs, see CRUs and FRUs locations.
Attention Do not open your computer or attempt any repairs before reading the Important
Product Information Guide.
Before replacing a CRU, click the illustration of the part to check the brief procedures.
External options
Optical drive
Front bezel
Drive bay assembly
Computer cover
Optical drive bracket

Replacing CRUs 18
Wi-Fi card
M.2 solid-state drive
bracket
M.2 solid-state driveCoin-cell battery
Power supply assembly
Note To replace a component that is not in the list above, contact a Lenovo service
technician. The support phone numbers are available at: http://www.lenovo.com/
support/phone
Storage drive PCI Express cardMemory module

Replacing CRUs 19
Replacing external options
Attention Do not open your computer or attempt any repairs before reading the Important
Product Information Guide.
1 Remove any media from the drives and turn off all connected devices and the computer.
2 Disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables from the computer.
3 Replace the dust shield.
12
4 Reconnect all cables.

Replacing CRUs 20
Removing the computer cover
Attention Do not open your computer or attempt any repairs before reading the Important
Product Information Guide.
Caution Before you open the computer cover, turn off the computer and wait several minutes
until the computer is cool.
1 Remove any media from the drives and turn off all connected devices and the computer.
2 Disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets and disconnect all cables from the computer.
3 Unlock any locking device that secures the computer cover.
4 Remove the computer cover.
5 Complete the replacement. For details, see Completing the parts replacement.