Thinkpads Forum

Hi,

I have a problem with a machine that I recently bought. It is a used X200 (in very good conditions actually ) that I will use as backup for my other Thinkpad.

The store that bought it from said that it has been restored, etc. but I'd like to to a full reinstall in any case, just to be sure.
Now I find that it does not seem to be possible... There does not even look like you can install software even when logged on as administrator...

I have tried all the usual ways (blue button, F1 to 12...) but the only choices I ever get is to enter bios, choose startup facility;... nothing about restore like you usually do (I have already reinstalled a few Thinkpads)

Any ideas as to why??

Many thanks in advance,
Magnus

magnus_spain wrote:Any ideas as to why??

Perhaps the recovery partition has been wiped. What happens when you try to install software?

That is the weirdest thing, seems like there is even a problem installing software.
Tried to install Chrome but it seems like something blocks the last part of the download of the "install package"...

Should I try and install something from a CD/DVD?

I have tried to install a simple program (Nero) from an external CD/DVD and that worked fine.

But something like Chrome (via internet) seems impossible
In addition, it takes ages to load pages via IE, not a problem on the other PC I have at home...h

I have tried to install a simple program (Nero) from an external CD/DVD and that worked fine.

But something like Chrome (via internet) seems impossible
In addition, it takes ages to load pages via IE, not a problem on the other PC I have at home...h

Are you connecting to the internet with a wired or wireless connection?

Wireless...
Can it make a difference?

Yes, it can make a difference. If you are having trouble downloading applications, it is most likely a connectivity problem.
Which wireless adapter does your ThinkPad have? What OS is installed? Do you have the correct drivers for your hardware?

Good point, I will try with with a LAN cable.

I have not touched the drivers yet or anything in the installation, it is running on Vista using Windows for the wifi connection.

The strange thing is that the only Thinkvantage module that is installed is the power manager, no access connections.

Thanks!

Seems fairly obvious that you don't have the original factory OS installed from Lenovo recovery media. Thus, the missing recovery partition, and F12 failing to work. Probably a vanilla Vista install with a few (one?) ThinkPad application.

I doubt you will need Access Connections anyway (I never install it), as Windows does a fine job managing wireless for most people.

When you get the ethernet cable connected, you might want to download and install System Update, and just let it manage your drivers and Lenovo applications.

Pretty normal for a used Thinkpad to not have a recovery partition. As Neil said, you got a generic install of Windows Vista. I prefer this anyways as now you can load only the software that you want.

Download and install the wireless and Ethernet drivers, then use Windows Update to update until you can't anymore. After that use Lenovo's ThinkVantage System Update. Then install the other software that you want/need.

Thanks Neil and Cigarguy!

You were right about the LAN connection, worked much better. Could install Chrome, update Thinkvantage and Windows.
Have used PCs for work since 1989 so I must admit that I feel like a right [censored] now

Now I just need to sort my X300 that is acting up

Thanks!!