M70q Gen 2 and M90q Gen 2 User Guide
Read this first Before using this documentation and the product it supports, ensure that you read and understand the following: • Safety and Warranty Guide • Generic Safety and Compliance Notices • Setup Guide First Edition (April 2021) © Copyright Lenovo 2021. LIMITED AND RESTRICTED RIGHTS NOTICE: If data or software is delivered pursuant to a General Services Administration “GSA” contract, use, reproduction, or disclosure is subject to restrictions set forth in Contract No. GS35F-05925.
Contents Discover your Lenovo computer . . . . iii Chapter 1. Meet your computer . . . . . 1 Front . . . . . . . . . Rear . . . . . . . . . Features and specifications USB specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 3 4 5 Chapter 2. Get started with your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Access networks . . . . . . . . . . . Connect to the wired Ethernet . . . . Connect to Wi-Fi networks (for selected models) . . . .
Dust shield . . . . . . . . . . . . . External Wi-Fi antenna . . . . . . . . Computer cover . . . . . . . . . . . Hard disk drive and hard disk drive bracket Internal speaker . . . . . . . . . . . System fan . . . . . . . . . . . . . Coin-cell battery . . . . . . . . . . . Wi-Fi card and Wi-Fi card shield . . . . Bottom cover . . . . . . . . . . . . Memory module . . . . . . . . . . . M.2 solid-state drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Discover your Lenovo computer Thank you for choosing a Lenovo® computer! We are dedicated to delivering the best solution to you. Before starting your tour, please read the following information: • Illustrations in this documentation might look different from your product. • Depending on the model, some optional accessories, features, software programs, and user interface instructions might not be applicable to your computer. • Documentation content is subject to change without notice.
iv M70q Gen 2 and M90q Gen 2 User Guide
Chapter 1. Meet your computer Front M70q Gen 2 1. ThinkCentre® LED 2. Power button 3. Storage drive activity indicator 4. USB-C® (3.2 Gen 1) connector 5. Always On USB 3.2 connector Gen 2 6. Headset connector M90q Gen 2 1. ThinkCentre® LED 2. Power button 3. Storage drive activity indicator 4. USB-C (3.2 Gen 2) connector 5. Always On USB 3.2 connector Gen 2 6. Headset connector System status indicator Show the system status of your computer. • On: The computer is starting up or working.
Always On USB 3.2 connector Gen 2 With the Always On USB feature enabled, the Always On USB 3.2 connector Gen 2 can charge a USBcompatible device when the computer is on, off, in sleep mode, or in hibernation mode. To enable the Always On USB feature, do the following: 1. Enter the UEFI BIOS menu. See “Enter the BIOS menu” on page 17. 2. Click Devices ➙ USB Setup ➙ Front USB Ports ➙ USB Port 2 to enable the Always On USB feature. Related topic • 2 “USB specifications” on page 5.
Rear 1. Optional connectors* 2. Security-lock slot 3. Wi-Fi® antenna slot* 4. Ethernet connector 5. USB 3.2 connectors Gen 2 6. USB 3.2 connector Gen 1 (with smart power-on feature) 7. HDMI™ out connector 8. USB 3.2 connector Gen 1 9. DisplayPort® out connector 10. Power cord connector * for selected models Optional connectors Depending on the computer model, the connector might vary. Related topics • “USB specifications” on page 5. • “Connect an external display” on page 7.
Features and specifications For detailed specifications of your computer, go to https://psref.lenovo.com. • Width: 36.5 mm (1.4 inches) Dimensions • Height: 179 mm (7 inches) • Depth: 182.9 mm (7.2 inches) Weight (without packaging) • M70q Gen 2: Maximum configuration as shipped: 1.25 kg (2.76 lb) • M90q Gen 2: Maximum configuration as shipped: 1.74 kg (3.84 lb) 1. Right-click the Start button to open the Start context menu. Hardware configuration 2. Click Device Manager.
* for selected models USB specifications Note: Depending on the model, some USB connectors might not be available on your computer. Connector name Description Connect USB-compatible devices, such as a USB keyboard, USB mouse, USB storage device, or USB printer. • USB 3.2 connector Gen 1 • USB 3.2 connector Gen 2 • Charge USB-C compatible devices with the output voltage and current of 5 V and 0.9 A. • Connect to USB-C accessories to help expand your computer functionality.
6 M70q Gen 2 and M90q Gen 2 User Guide
Chapter 2. Get started with your computer Access networks This section helps you access networks through connecting to a wired or wireless network. Connect to the wired Ethernet Connect your computer to a local network through the Ethernet connector on your computer with an Ethernet cable. Connect to Wi-Fi networks (for selected models) Click the network icon in the Windows® notification area, and then select a network for connection. Provide required information, if needed.
8 M70q Gen 2 and M90q Gen 2 User Guide
Chapter 3. Explore your computer The Vantage app The preinstalled Vantage app is a customized one-stop solution to help you maintain your computer with automated updates and fixes, configure hardware settings, and get personalized support. To access the Vantage app, type Vantage in the search box. Key features The Vantage app enables you to: • Know the device status easily and customize device settings. • Download and install UEFI BIOS, firmware and driver updates to keep your computer up-to-date.
1. Click the action center icon in the Windows notification area, and enable the Bluetooth feature. 2. Right-click the Bluetooth icon. 3. Select Go To Settings ➙ Add Bluetooth or other device ➙ Bluetooth. 4. Select a Bluetooth device, and then follow the on-screen instructions. Intel Turbo Boost Technology Intel Turbo Mode capability is designed to allow the processor to assess its own thermals, current, and power to come up with a dynamic upper limit on its frequency.
Purchase accessories Lenovo has a number of hardware accessories and upgrades to help expand the capabilities of your computer. Options include memory modules, storage devices, network cards, power adapters, keyboards, mice, and more. To shop at Lenovo, go to https://www.lenovo.com/accessories. Chapter 3.
12 M70q Gen 2 and M90q Gen 2 User Guide
Chapter 4. Secure your computer and information Lock the computer Note: Lenovo makes no comments, judgments, or warranties about the function, quality, or performance of the locking device and security feature. You can purchase computer locks from Lenovo. Kensington-style cable lock Lock your computer to a desk, table, or other fixtures through a Kensington-style cable lock.
When a supervisor password is set, you are prompted to enter a valid password each time you try to enter the BIOS menu. If both the power-on password and supervisor password are set, you can enter either password. However, you must use your supervisor password to change any configuration settings. • Hard disk password Setting a hard disk password prevents unauthorized access to the data on the storage drive.
1. Go to Control Panel and view by large icons or small icons. 2. Click Windows Defender Firewall, and then follow the on-screen instructions. Antivirus programs The computer is preinstalled with an antivirus program to help you guard against, detect, and eliminate viruses. Lenovo provides a full version of antivirus software on the computer with a free 30-day subscription. After 30 days, you must renew the license to continue receiving the antivirus software updates.
Cover presence switch The cover presence switch prevents the computer from logging in to the operating system when the computer cover is not properly installed or closed. To enable the cover presence switch connector on the system board: 1. Restart the computer. When the logo screen is displayed, press F1 or Fn+F1. 2. Select Security ➙ Cover Tamper Detected and press Enter. 3. Select Enabled and press Enter. 4. Press F10 or Fn+F10 to save the changes and exit.
Chapter 5. UEFI BIOS This chapter provides information about configuring and updating UEFI BIOS, and clearing CMOS. What is UEFI BIOS Note: The operating system settings might override any similar settings in UEFI BIOS. UEFI BIOS is the first program that the computer runs when the computer is turned on. UEFI BIOS initializes the hardware components and loads the operating system and other programs. Your computer comes with a setup program with which you can change UEFI BIOS settings.
Change the display mode of UEFI BIOS (for selected models) You can use UEFI BIOS in the graphic mode or the text mode according to your needs. The keys on the keyboard used to perform various tasks are displayed at the bottom of the screen. In addition to the keyboard, you also can use the mouse to make selections. To change the display mode of UEFI BIOS: 1. Restart the computer. When the logo screen is displayed, press F1 or Fn+F1. 2. Select Main ➙ Setup Mode Select and press Enter. 3.
2. Restart the computer. When the logo screen is displayed, press F12 or Fn+F12. 3. Select the storage device as desired and press Enter. If you want to change the boot priority order permanently, select Enter Setup on Startup Device Menu and press Enter to enter the BIOS menu.
You can enable the ErP LPS compliance mode to reduce the consumption of electricity when the computer is off or in sleep mode. To enable or disable the ErP LPS compliance mode: 1. Restart the computer. When the logo screen is displayed, press F1 or Fn+F1. 2. Select Power ➙ Enhanced Power Saving Mode and press Enter. 3. Depending on whether you select Enabled or Disabled, do one of the following: • If you select Enabled, press Enter. Then, select Power ➙ Automatic Power On and press Enter.
To change the BIOS settings: 1. Restart the computer. When the logo screen is displayed, press F1 or Fn+F1. 2. From the main interface, select Security ➙ Secure Boot and press Enter. 3. Depending on the operating system to be installed, do one of the following: • To install the Windows 10 (64-bit) and most of Linux operating system, select Enabled for Secure Boot. • To install an operating system that does not support secure boot, select Disabled for Secure Boot. 4.
Clear CMOS 1. Remove all media from the drives and turn off all connected devices and the computer. 2. Disconnect all power cords from electrical outlets. Then, remove any parts that impede access to the Clear CMOS/Recovery jumper. 3. Move the jumper from the standard position to the maintenance position. 4. Reconnect the power cords for the computer and the monitor to electrical outlets. 5. Turn on the computer and the monitor. When the computer beeps, wait for approximately 10 seconds. 6.
Chapter 6. Troubleshooting, diagnostics, and recovery This chapter provides solutions to resolve computer problems. Use the basic procedure as a starting point for resolving computer problems. Basic procedure for resolving computer problems Prerequisite Before you start, read Generic Safety and Compliance Notices, and print the following instructions. 1. Check that: a. The cables for all connected devices are connected correctly and securely. b. All components have been reassembled correctly. c.
Startup problems Problem Solution • Ensure that the power cord is correctly connected to the rear of the computer and to a working electrical outlet. The computer does not start up when you press the power button. • If the computer has a secondary power switch on the rear of the computer, ensure that it is switched on. • The power indicator on the front of the computer is on. • The computer voltage matches the voltage available at the electrical outlet for your country or region.
Audio problems Problem Solution • If you are using powered external speakers that have an On/Off control, ensure that: – The On/Off control is set to the On position. – The speaker power cable is connected to a properly grounded, functional ac electrical outlet. • If your external speakers have a volume control, ensure that the volume is not set too low. • Click the volume icon in the Windows notification area on the taskbar. Check the speaker and volume settings.
Problem Solution • Connect the cable from the Ethernet connector to the RJ45 connector of the hub. • Enable the Ethernet LAN feature in UEFI BIOS. • Enable the Ethernet LAN adapter. 1. Go to Control Panel and view by large icons or small icons. 2. Click Network and Sharing Center ➙ Change adapter settings. The computer cannot connect to an Ethernet LAN. 3. Right-click the Ethernet LAN adapter icon and click Enable. • Update or reinstall the Ethernet LAN driver.
Problem Solution • Enable the Bluetooth feature in UEFI BIOS. • Enable all Bluetooth devices. 1. Right-click the Start button to open the Start context menu. 2. Click Device Manager. Type the administrator password or provide confirmation if prompted. 3. Expand Bluetooth to display all Bluetooth devices. Right-click each Bluetooth device, and then click Enable device. The Bluetooth feature does not work. 4. Expand Network adapters to display all network devices.
Performance problems Problem Solution Note: Depending on the volume of the storage drives and amount of data stored on the storage drives, the disk-defragmentation process might take up to several hours. 1. Close any open programs and windows. 2. Open the Start menu. Excessive fragmented files exist on the storage drives. 3. Click Windows System ➙ File Explorer ➙ This PC. 4. Right-click your C drive and then click Properties. 5. Click the Tools tab. 6. Click Optimize.
Storage drive problems Problem Solution • Ensure that the signal cables and power cables for all the storage drives are connected correctly. • Ensure that the computer is configured correctly to support the storage drives. Some or all storage drives are missing from the BIOS menu. – If the computer is installed with SATA storage drives, ensure that the SATA storage drive enablement module (one to five storage drives) is installed.
Problem Solution The playback is slow or choppy. • Disable any background programs, such as AntiVirus or Desktop Themes. • Ensure that video resolution is less than 1152 x 864 pixels. A message indicating invalid disc or no disc found is displayed. • Ensure that the disc is in the drive with the shiny side of the disc facing down. • Ensure that video resolution is less than 1152 x 864 pixels. • Ensure that the DVD or CD is inserted into an appropriate optical drive.
Software problems Problem Solution 1. Check whether the problem is caused by a program. a. Ensure that the software is compatible with the computer. Refer to the information supplied with the software for more information. b. Verify that other software works correctly on the computer. c. Verify that the software you are using works on another computer. Some programs do not work as expected. 2.
Use advanced options 1. Open the Start menu, and then click Settings ➙ Update & Security ➙ Recovery. 2. In the Advanced startup section, click Restart now ➙ Troubleshoot ➙ Advanced options. 3. Select a preferred option, and then follow the on-screen instructions. Windows automatic recovery Note: Ensure that your computer is connected to ac power during the recovery process. The Windows recovery environment on your computer operates independently from the Windows 10 operating system.
You should download the latest driver for a component when you notice poor performance from that component or when you added a component. This action might eliminate the driver as the potential cause of a problem. Download and install the latest driver by one of the following methods: • From the Vantage app: Open the Vantage app to check the available update packages. If the latest UEFI BIOS update package is available, follow the on-screen instructions to download and install the package.
34 M70q Gen 2 and M90q Gen 2 User Guide
Chapter 7. CRU replacement Customer Replaceable Units (CRUs) are parts that can be upgraded or replaced by the customer. Lenovo computers contain the following types of CRUs: • Self-service CRUs: Refer to parts that can be installed or replaced easily by customer themselves or by trained service technicians at an additional cost. • Optional-service CRUs: Refer to parts that can be installed or replaced by customers with a greater skill level.
• Hard disk drive bracket* • System fan • Wi-Fi card* • Wi-Fi card shield* * for selected models Remove or replace a CRU This section provides instructions on how to remove or replace a CRU. Power adapter and power cord Prerequisite Before you start, read Generic Safety and Compliance Notices, and print the following instructions. For access, do the following: 1. Turn off the computer and remove all connected devices and cables. 2. Disconnect the computer from ac power and all connected cables.
Power adapter bracket Prerequisite Before you start, read Generic Safety and Compliance Notices, and print the following instructions. For access, do the following: 1. Turn off the computer and remove all connected devices and cables. 2. Disconnect the computer from ac power and all connected cables. Replacement procedure Chapter 7.
Vertical stand Prerequisite Before you start, read Generic Safety and Compliance Notices, and print the following instructions. For access, do the following: 1. Turn off the computer and remove all connected devices and cables. 2. Disconnect the computer from ac power and all connected cables.
VESA mount bracket Prerequisite Before you start, read Generic Safety and Compliance Notices, and print the following instructions. For access, do the following: 1. Turn off the computer and remove all connected devices and cables. 2. Disconnect the computer from ac power and all connected cables. Removal steps External optical drive box and external optical drive Prerequisite Before you start, read Generic Safety and Compliance Notices, and print the following instructions.
Replacement procedure 40 M70q Gen 2 and M90q Gen 2 User Guide
Dust shield Prerequisite Before you start, read Generic Safety and Compliance Notices, and print the following instructions. For access, do the following: 1. Turn off the computer and remove all connected devices and cables. 2. Disconnect the computer from ac power and all connected cables. Chapter 7.
Replacement procedure 42 M70q Gen 2 and M90q Gen 2 User Guide
External Wi-Fi antenna Prerequisite Before you start, read Generic Safety and Compliance Notices, and print the following instructions. For access, do the following: 1. Turn off the computer and remove all connected devices and cables. 2. Disconnect the computer from ac power and all connected cables. Removal steps Computer cover Prerequisite Before you start, read Generic Safety and Compliance Notices, and print the following instructions. For access, do the following: 1.
Removal steps Hard disk drive and hard disk drive bracket Prerequisite Before you start, read Generic Safety and Compliance Notices, and print the following instructions. Attention: The internal storage drive is sensitive. Inappropriate handling might cause damage and permanent loss of data. When handling the internal storage drive, observe the following guidelines: • Replace the internal storage drive only for upgrade or repair.
Replacement procedure Chapter 7.
Internal speaker Prerequisite Before you start, read Generic Safety and Compliance Notices, and print the following instructions. For access, do the following: 1. Remove the computer cover. See “Computer cover” on page 43. 2. Disconnect the internal speaker cable from the internal speaker connector on the system board.
Removal steps System fan Prerequisite Before you start, read Generic Safety and Compliance Notices, and print the following instructions. For access, do the following: 1. Remove the computer cover. See “Computer cover” on page 43. 2. Remove the internal speaker. See “Internal speaker” on page 46. 3. Disconnect the system fan cable from the system fan connector on the system board. Replacement procedure • M70q Gen 2 Chapter 7.
• M90q Gen 2 Coin-cell battery Prerequisite Before you start, read Generic Safety and Compliance Notices, and print the following instructions.
Your computer has a special type of memory that maintains the date, time, and settings for built-in features, such as parallel connector assignments (configurations). A coin-cell battery keeps this information active when you turn off the computer. The coin-cell battery normally requires no charging or maintenance throughout its life; however, no coin-cell battery lasts forever. If the coin-cell battery fails, the date and time information is lost.
Removal steps Note: While installing, ensure that you connect the gray cable to the connector labeled 1 (auxiliary) and the black cable to connector labeled 2 (main) on the card. Bottom cover Prerequisite Before you start, read Generic Safety and Compliance Notices, and print the following instructions. For access, do the following: • Remove the computer cover. See “Computer cover” on page 43. • Turn over the computer so that the bottom cover is facing up.
Replacement procedure Memory module Prerequisite Before you start, read Generic Safety and Compliance Notices, and print the following instructions. Ensure that you follow the installation order for memory modules shown in the following illustration. Chapter 7.
For access, remove the following parts in order: • “Computer cover” on page 43. • “Bottom cover” on page 50.
M.2 solid-state drive Prerequisite Before you start, read Generic Safety and Compliance Notices, and print the following instructions. Attention: The M.2 solid-state drive is sensitive. Inappropriate handling might cause damage and permanent loss of data. When handling the M.2 solid-state drive, observe the following guidelines: • Replace the M.2 solid-state drive only for upgrade or repair. The M.2 solid-state drive is not designed for frequent changes or replacement. • Before replacing the M.
• “Bottom cover” on page 50.
• M90q Gen 2 Chapter 7.
56 M70q Gen 2 and M90q Gen 2 User Guide
Chapter 8. Help and support Self-help resources Use the following self-help resources to learn more about the computer and troubleshoot problems. Resources How to access? Use the Vantage app to: • Configure device settings. • Download and install UEFI BIOS, drivers and firmware updates. • Secure you computer from outside threats. • Diagnose hardware problems. Type Vantage in the search box. • Check the computer warranty status. • Access User Guide and helpful articles.
Call Lenovo If you have tried to correct the problem yourself and still need help, you can call Lenovo Customer Support Center. Before you contact Lenovo Prepare the following before you contact Lenovo: 1. Record the problem symptoms and details: • What is the problem? Is it continuous or intermittent? • Any error message or error code? • What operating system are you using? Which version? • Which software applications were running at the time of the problem? • Can the problem be reproduced? If so, how? 2.
• Lenovo hardware repair - If the problem is determined to be caused by Lenovo hardware under warranty, trained service personnel are available to provide the applicable level of service. • Engineering change management - Occasionally, there might be changes that are required after a product has been sold. Lenovo or your reseller, if authorized by Lenovo, will make selected Engineering Changes (ECs) that apply to your hardware available.
60 M70q Gen 2 and M90q Gen 2 User Guide
Appendix A. Accessibility and ergonomic information This chapter provides information about accessibility and ergonomics. Accessibility information Lenovo is committed to providing users who have hearing, vision, and mobility limitations with greater access to information and technology. This section provides information about the ways these users can get the most out of their computer experience. You also can get the most up-to-date accessibility information from the following Web site: https://www.
keyboard with all the standard keys. You can select keys using the mouse or another pointing device, or you can tap to select the keys if your computer supports multi-touch screen. • High Contrast High Contrast is a feature that heightens the color contrast of some text and images on your screen. As a result, those items are more distinct and easier to identify. • Personalized keyboard Adjust keyboard settings to make your keyboard easier to use.
– Change the size of all the items on your screen. 1. Right-click an empty area of the desktop and then click Display settings ➙ Display. 2. Change the item size by following the on-screen instructions. For some applications, your configuration might not take effect until you sign out and then sign in again. – Change the size of the items on a Web page. Press and hold Ctrl, and then press the plus-sign key (+) to enlarge or the minus-sign key (–) to reduce the text size.
Display: Position the display to maintain a comfortable viewing distance of 510 mm to 760 mm (20 inches to 30 inches). Avoid glare or reflections on the display from overhead lighting or outside sources of light. Keep the display screen clean and set the brightness to levels that enable you to see the screen clearly. Press the brightness control keys to adjust display brightness. Head position: Keep your head and neck in a comfortable and neutral (vertical, or upright) position.
Appendix B. Compliance information Note: For more compliance information, refer to Generic Safety and Compliance Notices at https:// pcsupport.lenovo.com. Certification-related information Product name Machine types ThinkCentre M70q Gen 2 11MY, 11N0, 11N3, 11N4, 11N1, 11N2, 11N5, and 11N6 ThinkCentre M90q Gen 2 11MQ, 11MR, 11MU, 11MV, 11MS, 11MT, 11MW, and 11MX The latest compliance information is available at: https://www.lenovo.
Morrisville, NC 27560 Email: FCC@lenovo.com Operating environment Maximum altitude (without pressurization) • Operating: From -15.2 m (-50 ft) to 3048 m (10 000 ft) • Storage: From -15.
Appendix C. Notices and trademarks Notices Lenovo may not offer the products, services, or features discussed in this document in all countries. Consult your local Lenovo representative for information on the products and services currently available in your area. Any reference to a Lenovo product, program, or service is not intended to state or imply that only that Lenovo product, program, or service may be used.
Any performance data contained herein was determined in a controlled environment. Therefore, the result obtained in other operating environments may vary significantly. Some measurements may have been made on development-level systems and there is no guarantee that these measurements will be the same on generally available systems. Furthermore, some measurements may have been estimated through extrapolation. Actual results may vary.
