Chapter 9. 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 101

“Making sure device drivers are current” on page 102

“Taking care of your computer” on page 103

General tips for preventing problems

This topic provides the following tips to help you prevent computing problems:

If your computer is equipped with both a hard disk drive and an M.2 solid-state drive, you are not recommended to use the M.2 solid-state drive as a bootable device. The M.2 solid-state drive is designed and developed for “cache” function purpose only. If you use the M.2 solid-state drive as a bootable device, its reliability is not guaranteed.

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

To check the hard disk drive or hybrid drive capacity, do the following:

For Windows 7: Click Start Computer.

For Windows 8 and Windows 8.1: Open the File Explorer.

Empty your recycle bin on a regular basis.

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

To free up disk space, uninstall unused application programs.

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

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

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.

Schedule system restore operations to take a system snapshot periodically. For more information about system restore, see Chapter 5 “Recovery overview” on page 59.

Update device drivers and the UEFI BIOS when needed.

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

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.

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.

If you ever need to run a recovery on your computer to return the preinstalled contents 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 your computer has the ac power connected.

© Copyright Lenovo 2013

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Lenovo S540 manual Preventing problems, General tips for preventing problems, 101

S540 specifications

The Lenovo S540 is a sophisticated laptop designed for both performance and portability, making it an excellent choice for professionals and students alike. This device showcases a blend of modern aesthetics and powerful functionality, representing a notable entry in Lenovo's versatile lineup.

At the heart of the Lenovo S540 lies an Intel Core processor, available in multiple configurations, enabling users to select the level of performance that best suits their needs. These processors deliver exceptional speed and responsiveness, allowing users to seamlessly handle demanding tasks such as video editing, graphic design, or multitasking across various applications.

One of the standout features of the S540 is its stunning display. The laptop offers a Full HD display with vibrant colors and sharp details, whether you are watching movies, editing photos, or simply browsing the web. The narrow bezels around the screen enhance the viewing experience, making it an immersive option for both work and entertainment.

In terms of design, the Lenovo S540 boasts a sleek and lightweight chassis, making it ideal for on-the-go usage. Weighing in at just over 3.5 pounds, it easily fits into backpacks or briefcases, perfect for commuters or students moving between classes. The premium build quality ensures that it not only looks good but can also withstand daily wear and tear.

Battery life is another highlight, with the S540 offering impressive longevity that can last up to 12 hours on a single charge. This capability is crucial for users who may not have immediate access to a power source while out and about. Furthermore, it features rapid charge technology allowing users to recharge the battery quickly when needed.

Connectivity options on the S540 are generous, including USB-C, USB 3.1, HDMI, and a headphone/microphone combo jack. These ports facilitate easy connection to a variety of devices and peripherals, enhancing the overall usability of the laptop.

The Lenovo S540 also makes considerable use of modern technologies such as Intelligent Cooling, which adjusts performance and efficiency based on usage patterns, and TrueBlock Privacy Shutter, providing users with physical protection for the webcam when not in use.

With its balance of style, performance, and innovative features, the Lenovo S540 stands out as a formidable option in the competitive landscape of ultrabooks, making it a prime choice for anyone in need of a reliable and capable laptop.