Thinkpads Forum

I have a big problem: I updated my computer via Thinkvantage and while it was installing a bios update, the computer rebooted by itself, upon the reboot I now get a black screen and nothing else. Is there anything I can do short of taking it in to the depot? Also what is the turnaround time for a Depot repai?. If i theoritically take it in tommorow... The get the parts from IBM/Lenovo Friday, is it reasonable to expect that I will get my computer by Monday? Thoughts comments appreciated

Make sure if this is not due to a result of overcharged capacitor by removing all batteries (i.e. internal battery and Ultrabay battery, if there is any) and holding up the power button for 2-3 mins, this will drain any remaining charge from the capacitor. Afterwards put the batteries back, connect it to a power source and turn the machine on and see if there is any progress.

Moreover, after the BIOS update, upon reboot, did the notebook ever made it to Windows (OS) welcome screen and showed a black screen?

Lenovo depot service normally will tell you 5 business days, however it could take more or less time depending on parts availability, time of the year etc...

Basically the computer rebooted then it went dead that Circle with the Z came on and the AC Plug and Battery lights came on. It never made it to windows after the reboot. I really hope that the motherboard doesn't need to be changed.

If the BIOS update process did not go through as expected then unfortunately, most likely the motherboard is dead.

Terrible Service, I took my computer in to a local IBM service partner they tried to charge me to " move me in front of the line" [censored] thieves. They also said that they need to troubleshoot the problem and that it would take 3-5 days for them to do that alone. Off to the depot it goes so long my X61T hopefully you come back in the same condition you were sent.

smoothoperator wrote:Terrible Service, I took my computer in to a local IBM service partner they tried to charge me to " move me in front of the line" [censored] thieves..........snip

Actually it's better to deal directly with EasyServ (a.k.a Solectron) than doing business with IBM authorized repair centers; even though Solectron is notorious in it's own way but comparatively it's still a superior choice. It has it's headquarters in Milpitas too.

smoothoperator wrote:Terrible Service, I took my computer in to a local IBM service partner they tried to charge me to " move me in front of the line" [censored] thieves. They also said that they need to troubleshoot the problem and that it would take 3-5 days for them to do that alone. Off to the depot it goes so long my X61T hopefully you come back in the same condition you were sent.

Where are you? OC, California? I used to live in that area. I'd recommend calling IBM service center, tell them your machine's symptom, if your warranty is 'on-site', you can make an appointment for them to repair it for your at your home/office. Otherwise if you have a depot repair, it's still good. You call them and they send the packing box to you next day, you pack your comp and ship back in the same day. They repair it, and send back your machine in the next business day. My total turnaround time was 3 days.

NaT wrote:Where are you? OC, California? I used to live in that area. I'd recommend calling IBM service center, tell them your machine's symptom, if your warranty is 'on-site', you can make an appointment for them to repair it for your at your home/office. Otherwise if you have a depot repair, it's still good. You call them and they send the packing box to you next day, you pack your comp and ship back in the same day. They repair it, and send back your machine in the next business day. My total turnaround time was 3 days.

Hi I live in Laguna Beach, I first had the support person come out and he said that he could not do anything and that the board is on backorder, so IBM said to take it either to a Authorized Service Center or send it in. I took it to the service center they gave me the runaround so now im sending it in to IBM to have the system board replaced. They have given me the option to return this unit for a full refund, I am considering this, but at this point there is nothing else on the market that fits my needs like the X61T. I was looking at the Fujitsu but the non-touch functionality is something that I do not want to give up on. Something in the back of my head says that I should return it as this could be the tip of the iceberg with regards to problems that this machine might have. I reallyhope that they are careful and do not tear up the machine when its in for service, I have had this happen in the past, and in my experience once the machine is opened up it rarely is the same. It will take ~ 3 weeks for them to fix the board according to IBM support.

full refund is a good choice. I just sent my laptop to Solectron at Memphis, and I wish they will do a good job coz i read some negative comments about their service from this forum. Peace...