Chapter 8. Preventing problems

An important part of owning a Lenovo notebook computer is maintenance. With proper care, you can avoid common problems. The chapter provides information that can help you keep your computer running smoothly.

“General tips for preventing problems” on page 47

“Taking care of your computer” on page 48

General tips for preventing problems

1.Check the capacity of your hard disk drive from time to time. If the hard disk drive gets too full, the operating system will slow down and might produce errors.

2.Empty your recycle bin on a regular basis.

3.To free up disk space, uninstall unused application programs.

4.Clean out your Inbox, Sent, and Trash folders from your e-mail client program.

5.Back up your data at least once a week. If critical data is present, it is a good idea to perform a daily backup operation. Lenovo has many backup options available for your computer. CD-RW drives and CD-RW/DVD drives are available for most computers and are easily installed.

6.Schedule system restore operations to take a system snapshot periodically.

Note: Always take a system snapshot before installing new drivers, updating software, or installing new software.

7.Update device drivers and BIOS when needed.

8.Profile your machine at http://www.lenovo.com/support to keep up to date with current drivers and revisions.

9.Keep up to date for device drivers on other non-Lenovo hardware. You might want to read the device driver information release notes prior to updating for compatibility or known issues.

10.Keep a log book. Entries might include major hardware or software changes, driver updates, minor issues you have experienced, and how you resolved the minor issues.

11.If required, you can find your country's Customer Support Center at http://www.lenovo.com/support. When calling the Customer Support Center, make sure that you have your machine model type, serial number, and the computer in front of you. Also, if the computer is producing error codes, it is helpful to have the error screen on or the message written down.

If you need help, service, technical assistance, or just want more information about Lenovo products, you will find a wide variety of sources available from Lenovo to assist you. This section contains information about where to go for additional information about Lenovo and our products, what to do if you experience a problem with your computer, and whom to call for service should it be necessary.

Information about your computer and preinstalled software, if any, is available in the documentation that comes with your computer. That documentation includes printed books, online books, readme files, and help files. In addition, information about Lenovo products is available on the World Wide Web.

Microsoft® Service Packs are the latest software source for Windows product updates. They are available through Web download (connection charges might apply) or through discs. For more specific information and links, go to http://www.microsoft.com. Lenovo offers technical assistance with installation of, or questions related to, Service Packs for your Lenovo-preloaded Microsoft Windows product. For information, contact the Customer Support Center.

© Copyright Lenovo 2012

47

Page 61
Image 61
Lenovo B580, B480 manual Preventing problems, General tips for preventing problems

B580, B480 specifications

The Lenovo B480 and B580 are part of Lenovo's Essential series, designed for home and business users seeking reliable performance combined with an affordable price point. These laptops offer a range of features and technologies that cater to everyday computing needs while ensuring efficiency and productivity.

The B480 and B580 are equipped with Intel’s third-generation Core processors, enabling smooth multitasking and enhanced performance for various applications. Users can opt for configurations ranging from the Intel Core i3 to the more powerful Core i5 processors, allowing for flexibility based on individual requirements.

One of the main features of the Lenovo B480 and B580 is their 14-inch and 15.6-inch displays, respectively. The displays provide vibrant visuals with a resolution of 1366 x 768, making them suitable for watching movies, browsing the web, and completing work tasks. The B580's larger screen size is particularly appealing for those who prefer a more spacious viewing experience.

Both laptops come with ample storage options, featuring traditional hard disk drives (HDD) with capacities of up to 1TB. This allows users to store a significant amount of data, including documents, multimedia files, and software applications. Furthermore, the inclusion of a DVD drive in both models enhances their versatility, allowing users to play and burn CDs and DVDs.

In terms of memory, the B480 and B580 typically support up to 8GB of DDR3 RAM, ensuring smooth performance when running multiple applications simultaneously. The systems also include integrated Intel HD Graphics, which provide adequate graphics performance for standard tasks, casual gaming, and media playback.

Connectivity options are generous with several USB ports, HDMI output, and Ethernet ports available on both models. The inclusion of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth allows for easy wireless connections to networks and peripherals, enhancing the overall user experience.

Additionally, Lenovo's proprietary software tools contribute to the functionality of the B480 and B580. Lenovo Solution Center and OneKey Recovery simplify system management and provide users with an easy way to back up their data.

In conclusion, the Lenovo B480 and B580 are reliable laptops equipped with essential features and technologies suitable for a wide range of users. With their balance of performance, storage options, and connectivity, these models offer great value for anyone looking for a dependable and affordable laptop.