This document is a user guide for the Lenovo Y720-15IKB laptop, also referred to as the Lenovo Y720. It provides comprehensive information on getting to know the computer, starting with Windows 10, recovery systems, and troubleshooting.
Getting to Know Your Computer
The guide begins by detailing the physical components of the laptop from various views: top, left-side, right-side, and bottom.
Top View
The top view highlights several key components:
- Integrated camera: Used for video communication and taking photos.
- Built-in microphone: Captures sound for video conferencing, voice narration, or audio recording.
- Computer display: Provides visual output.
- Wireless LAN antennas: Connect to a wireless LAN adapter for sending and receiving wireless radio signals.
- Speakers: Provide audio output.
- Power button: Used to turn the computer on.
- Numeric keypad: A separate section of the keyboard for numerical input, enabled or disabled by the Num Lock key.
- Touchpad: Functions as a conventional mouse, with left and right buttons corresponding to a mouse's. It can be enabled/disabled by pressing Fn + F6.
The guide also lists various function key combinations (Fn + F1 through Fn + F12, Fn + C, Fn + S, and arrow keys) that allow instant changes to operational features such as muting/unmuting sound, adjusting volume, enabling/disabling the microphone, refreshing the desktop, enabling/disabling the touchpad, enabling/disabling Airplane mode, enabling/disabling the integrated camera, locking the screen, toggling display output, and adjusting display brightness. On select models, Fn + Space adjusts the keyboard backlight.
Left-Side View
The left side of the laptop features:
- Kensington mini security slot: For attaching a Kensington MiniSaver™ Mobile (or compatible) lock. It's important to note that the lock is not supplied, and users should choose one that utilizes the Cleat™ locking mechanism, as T-Bar™ locking mechanisms are not compatible.
- AC power adapter jack: Connects to the AC power adapter for charging.
- Battery status indicator: This indicator shows the battery's charge status. A solid white light means the battery has more than 80% charge. A solid amber light indicates 5% to 20% charge. A slowly blinking white light means the battery is between 20% and 80% charge and will stop blinking when fully charged. A slowly blinking amber light indicates 5% to 20% charge, changing to white when it reaches 20%. A quickly blinking amber light means less than 5% charge. If off, the battery is discharging with more than 20% charge.
- RJ-45 port: Connects the computer to an Ethernet network. Instructions are provided on how to gently press down the cover and insert the cable.
- USB port: Connects to USB devices. The computer has three USB ports. Windows typically installs drivers automatically upon first connection, but some devices may require manual driver installation. Users are advised to safely remove USB storage devices before disconnecting them.
- Combo audio jack: Connects to headsets. It does not support conventional microphones, and recording functions might not be supported with third-party headphones due to different industry standards.
Right-Side View
The right side of the laptop includes:
- Power status indicator: Similar to the battery status indicator, a solid white light means the computer is powered on, blinking indicates sleep mode, and off means the computer is powered off.
- Type-C port: Connects to Type-C devices.
- DisplayPort connector: Connects to an external display device.
- USB ports: Connect to USB devices.
- HDMI port: Connects to devices with HDMI input, such as a TV or external display.
- Novo button: When the computer is off, pressing this button starts the recovery system (Reset this PC), the BIOS setup utility, or the boot menu. A paper clip or similar non-sharp object can be used to gently press it.
Bottom View
The bottom view highlights:
- Ventilation slots: Dissipate internal heat. Users are cautioned to ensure these slots are not blocked to prevent overheating.
- Louvers: Allow air to enter the computer for cooling.
- Speaker: Provides subwoofer audio output.
- X-Box antennas: (On select models)
Starting to Use Windows 10
This section guides users through the initial setup and basic operations of Windows 10.
Configuring the Operating System for the First Time
New users may need to configure the operating system, which typically involves:
- Accepting the end user license agreement.
- Configuring the Internet connection.
- Registering the operating system.
- Creating a user account.
Operating System Interface
Windows 10 features a powerful Start menu, which can be opened by pressing the Windows key or selecting the Start icon on the lower-left corner of the desktop. The Start menu includes:
- Get Started app
- Settings button
- Power button
- Start button
- Search box
- Task view button
Settings: Allows users to perform basic tasks and search for more settings. It can be accessed via the Start menu.
Personalize the Start menu: Users can personalize the Start menu by right-clicking an app in the apps list and selecting "Pin to Start," or by dragging apps from the list.
Putting the Computer to Sleep or Shutting It Down
Putting your computer to sleep: For short breaks, users can put the computer to sleep by closing the display lid, pressing the Power button, or selecting Power → Sleep from the Start menu. A blinking power indicator light confirms sleep mode. Users are warned not to move the computer while the hard disk is spinning to avoid data loss. To wake the computer, press any key or the Power button.
Shutting down the computer: For longer periods of non-use, the computer can be shut down by selecting Power → Shut down from the Start menu, or by right-clicking the Start button and selecting Shut down or sign out → Shut down.
Task and Desktop Management
Task view: To open the task view, users can select the Task view button on the task bar or press the Windows key + Tab.
Virtual desktop management: Windows 10 supports virtual desktops. New desktops can be created by opening the task view and selecting "New desktop," or by pressing the Windows key + Ctrl + D. Users can switch between desktops by opening the task view and selecting the desired desktop, or by pressing the Windows key + Ctrl + ← / →.
Connecting to a Wireless Network
Enabling wireless connection: To enable wireless functions, press Fn + F7 to disable airplane mode, then click the network icon on the lower-right corner of the task bar to open the network configuration page.
Connecting to a wireless network: After enabling wireless, the computer scans for available networks. Users can click a network name and then "Connect." Some networks require a security key or passphrase from the network administrator or ISP.
Get Started App
The Get Started app explains new Windows 10 features. It can be accessed from the Start menu or by pressing F1 (depending on the keyboard layout).
Recovery System
The Lenovo Y720 offers two recovery options: Lenovo OneKey Recovery System or Reset this PC, depending on the pre-installed software.
Lenovo OneKey Recovery System
This software is designed to back up and restore the computer's system partition. It can restore the system to its original status in case of failure and create user backups.
- Note: It's not available on GNU/Linux systems. A hidden partition stores the system image and program files, which reduces available disk space.
Backing up the system partition:
- Double-click the OneKey Recovery icon in Windows.
- Click "System Backup."
- Select a backup location (local hard disk or external storage device) and click "Next."
- Notes: Remove removable hard drives before backup to prevent data loss. The process may take time and is only available when Windows starts normally.
Restoring:
- Double-click the OneKey Recovery icon in Windows.
- Click "System Recovery." The computer will restart into the recovery environment.
- Follow on-screen instructions to restore the system partition to its original status or a previous backup point.
- Notes: The recovery process is irreversible, so back up data first. Connect the AC power adapter during recovery. These steps apply when Windows starts normally.
If Windows cannot be started:
- Shut down the computer.
- Press the Novo button, then select "System Recovery" from the Novo Button Menu and press Enter.
- Note: OneKey Recovery System may not be available on all Lenovo computers. Check Control Panel → Programs. If not preinstalled, refer to "Reset this PC."
Reset this PC
This is a built-in Windows recovery tool that restores the operating system to its original state while preserving data and customizations.
Keep my files: Fixes software problems by reinstalling the factory default configuration, preserving personal files, but deleting apps and settings.
Remove everything: Prepares the computer for recycling or transfer by reinstalling the factory default configuration and returning all user data and applications to the original Out-of-Box Experience (OOBE) state.
Using Reset this PC:
- Novo Menu: Press the Novo button, then select System Recovery → Troubleshoot → Reset this PC.
- Windows PC settings: Go to Windows PC settings → Update & security → Recovery → Reset this PC → Start.
- Note: If OneKey Recovery System is preinstalled, refer to that section instead.
Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues and provides solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Finding information:
- Safety precautions: Refer to the Lenovo Safety and General Information Guide (accessible via the Companion or Lenovo PC Manager icon on the taskbar, or downloadable from the Lenovo Support Web site).
- Lenovo support Web site: http://support.lenovo.com
- Warranty information: Visit the Lenovo Support Web site and enter the serial number.
Lenovo preinstalled operating system and software:
- Preinstalled OS: Some Lenovo computers come with a preinstalled Windows OS, allowing immediate use without separate installation.
- Preinstalled software: Software developed by Lenovo or other vendors, often trial versions requiring a license purchase after expiration. Users should read license agreements carefully.
- Identifying preinstalled Windows: Check the sales package label for "Windows" or "WIN" next to OS.
Recovery Partition:
- Function: Contains the image file of the preinstalled Windows OS for system restoration.
- Access: Not assigned a drive letter, so it cannot be accessed via Windows File Explorer.
- Uninstalled software: If Windows is Compact-enabled, uninstalling software may not significantly increase free drive space because most files are on the Recovery Partition.
- Deleting/modifying Recovery Partition: Attention: Do not delete or modify it on Compact-enabled computers, as this can prevent Windows restoration or even cause Windows to fail to start.
- Determining Compact-enabled Windows: Right-click the Start button, select "Disk Management." If "Compact" is labeled on the Windows partition, it's enabled. This is common on SSD/eMMC-only models with Windows 10 Update.
- Drivers: Check the C partition for drivers. If not found, download from the Lenovo consumer support website.
Lenovo OneKey Recovery System (Troubleshooting):
- Recovery discs: Not provided. Use OneKey Recovery System for factory status restoration.
- Backup process fails:
- Close all open programs and restart the backup.
- Check destination media for damage and try another path.
BIOS Setup Utility
- What it is: ROM-based software for basic computer information, setting boot devices, security, hardware mode, and other preferences.
- Starting it: Shut down the computer, press the Novo button, and select "BIOS Setup."
- Changing boot mode (select models): Two modes: UEFI First and Legacy Support. Change in the BIOS setup utility's boot menu.
- When to change boot mode: Default is UEFI First. Change to Legacy Support to install a legacy Windows operating system.
Getting Help
- Customer support: Refer to "Chapter 3. Getting help and service" in the Lenovo Safety and General Information Guide.
Display Problems
- Blank screen on startup:
- Ensure AC power adapter is connected and plugged into a working outlet.
- Confirm computer power is on (press Power button again).
- If blank, have the computer serviced.
- White cursor on blank screen: Restore backed-up files or the entire hard disk to factory contents using the recovery system. If the issue persists, service the computer.
- Screen goes blank during use: Screen saver or power management may be enabled. Exit by touching the touchpad, pressing any key, or pressing the Power button.
BIOS Password Problems
- Forgot user password: Ask the system administrator to clear it.
- Forgot hard disk drive password: Lenovo authorized servicers cannot reset it or recover data. The hard disk drive must be replaced, requiring proof of purchase and a fee.
- Forgot administrator password: Lenovo authorized servicer cannot reset it. The system board must be replaced, requiring proof of purchase and a fee.
Sleep Problems
- Critical low-battery error/immediate shutdown: Battery is low. Connect the AC power adapter.
- Computer enters sleep mode after POST:
- Ensure battery pack is charged.
- Ensure operating temperature is within range (refer to Lenovo Safety and General Information Guide).
- If these are met, have the computer serviced.
- Computer does not return from sleep mode/does not work:
- If in sleep mode, connect AC power adapter, then press any key or Power button.
- If still unresponsive, reset by pressing and holding the Power button for four seconds or more. If still not reset, remove the AC power adapter. Unsaved data may be lost.
Display Panel Problems
- Blank screen:
- If using AC adapter or battery, and battery status indicator is on, press Fn + F12 to brighten the screen.
- If power indicator is blinking, press Power button to resume from sleep mode.
- If problem persists, refer to "The screen is unreadable or distorted."
- Unreadable or distorted screen:
- Ensure display device driver is installed correctly.
- Ensure screen resolution and color quality are correctly set.
- Ensure monitor type is correct.
- Incorrect characters on screen:
- Check if the operating system or programs are installed and configured correctly. If so, have the computer serviced.
Sound Problems
- No sound from speaker:
- Ensure Mute function is off.
- Ensure combo audio jack is not being used.
- Ensure speakers are selected as the playback device.
Battery Pack Problems
- Computer shuts down before indicator shows empty, or operates after indicator shows empty: Discharge and recharge the battery pack.
- Computer does not operate with fully charged battery pack: The surge protector in the battery pack might be active. Turn off the computer for one minute to reset it, then turn it on again.
Hard Disk Drive Problem
- Hard disk drive does not work: Ensure the hard disk drive is included in the Boot menu in the BIOS setup utility.
Recovery System Problems
- Failure to restore system partition to factory default: The system partition (e.g., size or C drive capacity) has been modified.
Other Problems
- Computer does not respond:
- To turn off, press and hold the Power button for four seconds or more. If still unresponsive, remove the AC power adapter.
- Computer might lock during sleep mode during communication. Disable the sleep timer when on a network.
- Computer does not start from desired device:
- Check the Boot menu in the BIOS setup utility to ensure the computer is set to start from the desired device and that the device is enabled.
- While turned off, press the Novo button to select the device to start from.
- Connected external device does not work:
- Do not connect or disconnect non-USB external device cables while the computer is on to avoid damage.
- For high-power consumption external devices (e.g., external USB optical disk drive), use an external power adapter. Otherwise, the device may not be recognized, or the system may shut down.
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