Flame retardants

Lenovo T545 manual Flame retardants

Environmental requirements

Flame retardants are present in printed circuit boards, cables, wires, casings and housings. Their purpose is to prevent, or at least to delay the spread of fire. Up to 30% of the plastic in a computer casing can consist of flame retardant substances. Most flame retardants contain bromine or chloride, and those flame retardants are chemically related to another group of environmental toxins, PCBs. Both the flame retardants containing bromine or chloride and the PCBs are suspected of giving rise to severe health effects, including reproductive damage in fish-eating birds and mammals, due to the bio-accumulative* processes. Flame retardants have been found in human blood and researchers fear that disturbances in foetus development may occur.

The relevant TCO’99 demand requires that plastic components weighing more than 25 grams must not contain flame retardants with organically bound bromine or chlorine. Flame retardants are allowed in the printed circuit boards since no substitutes are available.

Cadmium**

Cadmium is present in rechargeable batteries and in the colour-generating layers of certain computer displays. Cadmium damages the nervous system and is toxic in high doses. The relevant TCO’99 requirement states that batteries, the colour-generating layers of display screens and the electrical or electronics components must not contain any cadmium.

Mercury**

Mercury is sometimes found in batteries, relays and switches. Mercury damages the nervous system and is toxic in high doses. TCO’99 requirement states that batteries may not contain more than 25 ppm (part oer million) of mercury. It also demands that no mercury is present in any of the electrical or electronics components concerned with the display unit. Mercury is, for the time being, permitted in the back light system of flat panel monitors as there today is no commercially available alternative. TCO aims on removing this exception when a mercury free alternative is available.

CFCs (freons)

The relevant TCO’99 requirement states that neither CFCs nor HCFCs may be used during the manufacture and assembly of the product. CFCs (freons) are sometimes used for washing printed circuit boards. CFCs break down ozone and thereby damage the ozone layer in the stratosphere, causing increased reception on earth of ultraviolet light with e.g. increased risks of skin cancer (malignant melanoma) as a consequence.

Lead**

Lead can be found in picture tubes, display screens, solders and capacitors. Lead damages the nervous system and in higher doses, causes lead poisoning. The relevant TCO’99 requirement permits the inclusion of lead since no replacement has yet been developed.

*Bio-accumulative is defined as substances which accumulate within living organisms

**Lead, Cadmium and Mercury are heavy metals which are Bio-accumulative.

37	APPENDIX
37

T545 specifications

The Lenovo T545 is a versatile and powerful laptop that caters to a wide range of users, from business professionals to students. Designed to combine performance, durability, and functionality, the T545 stands out in the competitive laptop market.

One of the main features of the T545 is its robust processing power. It is equipped with AMD Ryzen processors, which deliver exceptional performance for multitasking and demanding applications. This makes the T545 suitable for tasks such as video editing, data analysis, and software development. With options for up to 16GB of RAM, users can experience smoother performance and faster data access.

Another notable characteristic of the T545 is its display. The laptop features a 15.6-inch Full HD (1920x1080) display that offers vibrant colors and sharp details. This high-resolution screen is ideal for presentations, graphic design, and entertainment purposes, ensuring that images and videos are rendered with stunning clarity.

In terms of connectivity, the T545 does not disappoint. It comes with multiple USB ports, including USB-C, which allows for fast data transfer and charging capabilities. The inclusion of HDMI and Ethernet ports ensures compatibility with various devices, whether it's connecting to external monitors or wired networks. Additionally, the laptop supports Wi-Fi 6 technology, providing faster wireless connections and improved performance in crowded areas.

Durability is another key aspect of the Lenovo T545. Built with a strong chassis and tested against military-grade specifications, this laptop is designed to withstand the rigors of daily use. Its spill-resistant keyboard adds an extra layer of protection, making it a reliable choice for users on the go.

The T545 also boasts a long-lasting battery life, enabling users to work uninterrupted for extended periods, whether at the office or while traveling. With Lenovo's Rapid Charge technology, users can quickly recharge their device, ensuring they are never left without power when they need it most.

In conclusion, the Lenovo T545 is a well-rounded laptop that combines powerful performance, impressive display quality, sturdy design, and extensive connectivity. Its blend of features and technologies makes it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a reliable and efficient device, whether for work, study, or leisure.