Solving computer problems

Other problems

Problem: The computer locks or does not accept input.

Solution: Your computer may lock when it enters standby mode during a communication operation. Disable the standby timer when you are working on the network.

To turn off the computer, press and hold the power switch for 4 seconds or more.

Problem: The computer does not turn off with the power switch.

Solution: If the standby indicator is on and you are working under battery power, replace the battery with a fully charged one or change your power source to ac power. If you still have a problem, press and hold the power switch for 4 seconds or more; this forces the computer to turn off.

Problem: The computer does not start from a device you want, such as a diskette drive.

Solution: Refer to the Startup menu of the IBM BIOS Setup Utility. Make sure that the startup sequence in the IBM BIOS Setup Utility is set so that the computer starts from the device you want.

Also make sure that the device from which the computer starts is enabled by checking there is no ! mark preceding the device name.

Problem: Windows NT does not start; however, the message saying that Windows NT is loading remains on the screen.

Solution: The USB setting may have been changed to Enabled. If so, it may cause a conflict in allocating memory resources during startup. Disable the setting, using the BIOS Setup Utility as follows:

1.Turn your computer off and then on again; then, while the message,

“Press F1 for IBM BIOS Setup Utility,” is displayed at the lower left of the screen, press the F1 key to start the BIOS Setup Utility. The BIOS Setup Utility menu appears.

2.With the cursor key, select Config; then press Enter.

3.Select USB by pressing Enter.

4.With the cursor key, select Disable; then press Enter.

5.Press F10 and Enter to save this setting and exit this utility.

24ThinkPad® A21e Service and Troubleshooting Guide

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IBM A21e manual Other problems

A21e specifications

The IBM A21e is a notable entry in the realm of Lenovo's ThinkPad series, primarily aimed at the educational sector and consumers seeking a reliable, budget-friendly option. Released as a part of IBM's initiative to enhance educational technology, the A21e brings together essential features, practical technologies, and robust characteristics that cater to students and everyday users alike.

One of the most distinguishing features of the A21e is its display. The laptop typically comes with a 14.1-inch screen, offering a resolution of 1024 x 768 pixels. This size provides a balance between portability and usability, making it ideal for students who need to carry their devices between classes without sacrificing screen real estate.

The keyboard is another highlight of the A21e. Renowned for its tactile feedback and comfortable typing experience, the spill-resistant keyboard enables users to write long essays or perform programming tasks with ease. Additionally, the laptop's design includes function keys that make it convenient to perform common computing tasks swiftly.

Under the hood, the A21e is powered by Intel processing technology, typically featuring Intel Celeron or Pentium processors. This ensures that the device is equipped to handle daily tasks such as word processing, web browsing, and multimedia playback. The laptop usually features a discrete graphics option for users who may require a bit more graphical power, catering to casual gamers or multimedia creators.

The memory options for the A21e generally range up to 1GB of RAM, which supports smooth multitasking for basic applications. With a hard drive capacity extending to 40GB or more, users have ample storage for documents, media files, and educational resources. It also features a DVD-ROM drive, allowing for the playback of multimedia and installation of software from physical media.

Connectivity-wise, the IBM A21e supports a variety of ports, including USB 1.1 for peripheral connections, a multimedia card slot, and an Ethernet port for networking capabilities. This emphasis on connectivity ensures that users can integrate the laptop into diverse environments, whether for classroom use or home study.

The laptop's build quality contributes to its perceived durability. With rugged features designed to withstand the rigors of school life, the A21e stands as a practical choice for students and educational institutions alike. Overall, the IBM A21e combines essential features with flexible technologies, making it an enduring tool for learning and productivity.