Solving computer problems

Recover pre-installed software

If the data on your hard disk drive is damaged or accidentally erased, you can restore the software that was shipped with your computer. This software includes your pre-installed operating system, applications, and device drivers.

To restore your pre-installed software, you can use either the Product

Recovery program or a Recovery CD.

The Product Recovery program is in a section of your hard disk drive that is not displayed by Windows Explorer. You may use a Recovery CD if it was provided with your computer.

In case of a hard disk drive failure, or if the Product Recovery program is accidentally deleted or becomes damaged, you can order a Product Recovery CD from IBM.

Note: The recovery process might take up to 2 hours.

Attention

All of the files on the C:\ drive will be lost in the recovery process. Be sure to back up copies of the files you have saved on your C:\ drive before you begin.

Note: You might need to use a CD-ROM drive or a diskette drive in the recovery process. Use a drive that is compatible with your computer.

To use the Product Recovery program to restore your pre-installed software, do the following:

1.Save all your files and shut down your desktop.

2.Turn off your computer.

3.Turn on your computer. Quickly press F11 when this message is displayed on the screen: To start the Product Recovery program, press F11.This message is displayed for only a few seconds.

Note: If this message does not appear, you can use a Recovery Repair diskette to get access to the Product Recovery program.

4.From the list displayed on the screen, select the operating system you want to recover.

5.Select the recovery options you want, and follow the instructions on the screen.

26ThinkPad® A21e Service and Troubleshooting Guide

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IBM A21e manual Recover pre-installed software

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.