Chapter 8. Preventing problems

An important part of owning a ThinkPad 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 103

“Making sure device drivers are current” on page 104

“Taking care of your computer” on page 105

General tips for preventing problems

1.If your computer is equipped with both a hard disk drive and an mSATA solid-state drive, you are not recommended to use the mSATA solid-state drive as a bootable device. The mSATA solid-state drive is designed and developed for the “cache” function purpose only. If you use the mSATA solid-state drive as a bootable device, its reliability is not guaranteed.

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

To check the hard disk drive capacity, click Start Computer on the Windows 7 operating system. For the Windows 8 operating system, open Windows Explorer and click Computer.

3.Empty your recycle bin on a regular basis.

4.Use disk defragment tool regularly on your hard disk drive to improve data seek and read times.

5.To free up disk space, uninstall unused program programs.

Note: You also might want to look for program program duplication or overlapping versions.

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

7.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. Rewritable optical drives are available for most machines and are easily installed.

8.Schedule system restore operations to take a system snapshot periodically. For more information about system restore, see Chapter 5 “Recovery overview” on page 51.

9.Update device drivers and UEFI BIOS when needed.

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

11.Ensure device drivers for non-Lenovo peripheral devices are kept up to date. You might want to read the device driver information release notes prior to updating for compatibility or known issues.

12.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.

13.If you ever need to run a recovery on your computer to return the preload onto the machine, the following tips might help along the way:

Remove all external devices such as the printer, keyboard, and so on.

Make sure that your battery is charged and that you have the ac power connected.

Boot into ThinkPad Setup and load the default settings.

Restart the computer and start the recovery operation.

If your computer uses discs as the recovery media, do not remove the disc from the drive until prompted to do so.

14.For suspected hard disk drive issues, refer to “Diagnosing problems” on page 109 to run a diagnostic test of the drive before you call the Customer Support Center. If your computer does

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Lenovo E135, E130 manual Preventing problems, General tips for preventing problems, 103

E130, E135 specifications

The Lenovo E135 and E130 are compact, lightweight laptops designed primarily for the education market and small business professionals. Engineered with portability and performance in mind, both models balance functionality with affordability, making them ideal for users seeking reliable daily computing without the bulk of traditional laptops.

One of the standout features of the Lenovo E135 and E130 is their impressive battery life. Both models are equipped with energy-efficient processors that enable extended use on a single charge, an essential factor for users who are often on the go. The laptops are designed to last all day, with battery performance catering to the needs of students and professionals who may not always have access to a power outlet.

The E135 features an AMD processor, allowing for efficient multitasking and smooth operation of applications while maintaining lower power consumption. The E130, on the other hand, is powered by an Intel processor, which is noted for its reliability and efficiency in handling everyday tasks. Both models ensure seamless performance for activities such as web browsing, document creation, and media consumption.

Display quality is another highlight of these models. The 11.6-inch display offers vibrant visuals and comfortable viewing angles, enhancing the user experience whether for work or leisure activities. The anti-glare technology helps reduce eye strain during prolonged use, ensuring that users can engage with their devices comfortably.

In terms of build quality, both the E135 and E130 boast a durable design that can withstand the rigors of daily use, an essential feature for students or field professionals. The keyboards are ergonomically designed for comfortable typing, while the touchpads provide responsive navigation, making daily tasks more efficient.

Connectivity options are plentiful; users can expect multiple USB ports, HDMI output, and integrated Wi-Fi, ensuring that the laptops can easily connect to various peripherals and networks. This versatility is crucial for those who work in diverse environments or need to connect their laptops to external displays.

In summary, the Lenovo E135 and E130 are excellent choices for individuals looking for compact, efficient, and budget-friendly laptops. With their solid performance, long battery life, and user-friendly features, these models meet the demands of students and professionals alike, making them reliable companions for everyday computing tasks.