Freaky fingerprint reader

[sdjamie]

Hi folks, I've searched but can't find anything that sheds light on the problem I'm having with my T60 (2007FVG running XP).

I've configured a power-on password and enabled fingerprint access. When I turn the unit on I get the pre boot fingerprint dialog as required. However, it is often unresponsive and I have to press esc to cancel and then enter my password. Curiously, it seems that it's nearly always unresponsive when the AC adapter is plugged in, but as far as I can ascertain it is always fine when running on battery.

I also have CSS fingerprint login to the windows desktop and in all cases, regardless of any initial power-on problems, fingerprint operation under XP works perfectly!

I've run the PC Doctor diagnostics in windows and it sees no problems. Prior to upgrading Rescue and Recovery to version 4, I also had the option of running diagnostics from the recovery partion (the option seems to have gone now), but in this case the fingerprint test would hang (can't remember if this was on battery or AC).

I've upgraded the bios, fingerprint software, CSS, etc. The only things I can think of are to (1) remove the palmrest and reseat the cable(s), (2) send it to Lenovo for a full hardware check (could be a mainboard fault).


Has anyone else experienced similar problems?

sdjamie

[RealBlackStuff]

If that were my laptop, I'd disconnect the FPR under the KB-bezel, or even swap the bezel for one without FPR.
I just don't trust that technique.

[sdjamie]

I confess that the fingerprint reader is a bit gimmicky and I could live without it - and I didn't purchase this particular t60 specifically for it, however, it's there and so I expect it to work.

[i.thinkpad]

@ sdjamie

Given your fingerprint reader works perfectly under certain conditons, it doesn't seem to be a hardware problem. I suggest you enroll a few more fingers and try with more than just one finger when it is unresponsive. Practise a little while with the fingerprint reader management tool, as the pre boot fingerprint dialog won't be able to give warning message when you scan your finger incorrectly e.g. too fast, off centre etc. Also allow a few seconds interval to let the system recover from a failed scan and be ready for taking a new scan.