Thinkpads Forum

Hello everyone,

I'm going to do a clean install of Windows Vista Business x64 on my T500 the aim is to improve performance and get rid of unnecessary Lenovo bloatware. I have a clean copy of Vista x64 supplied by Microsoft with no Lenovo drivers or software. I only want essential drivers/software for hardware I have in my system e.g fingerprint reader, camera etc. I don't need or want Rescue&Recovery and Client Security Solution or any other bloatware.

My question is which drivers and software are essential or actually useful and don't use up to many resources for little benefit. Vista can do what a lot of Lenovo software does anyway e.g. Access connections which I don't want btw.

my system is as follows:

Processor1 Intel Core 2 Duo processor T9550 (2.66GHz 1066MHz 6MBL2)
Operating system12 Genuine Windows Vista Business 64
Operating system Language Genuine Windows Vista Business 64 US English
Display type 15.4" WSXGA+ TFT
System graphics ATI Mobility Radeon 3650 with 256MB
Total memory 2 GB PC3-8500 DDR3 (1 DIMM)
Keyboard Language US English Keyboard
Fingerprint Integrated fingerprint reader
Camera Integrated Camera Module
Hard drive4 320GB Hard Disk Drive, 5400rpm
Optical device5 DVD Recordable, Ultrabay Slim
System expansion slots Express Card & PC Card Slots
Bluetooth Integrated Bluetooth PAN
Integrated WiFi wireless LAN adapters Intel WiFi Link 5300
Modem Yes - AMoM
Battery60 9 cell Li-Ion Battery


The link to the Drivers and Software is:

http://www-307.ibm.com/pc/support/site. ... MIGR-70443

I appreciate it's a mission to go through and work out an accurate list any help will be well received.

Kind regards and thanks Jason

Make a copy of the SWTools folder on the C:\ drive. It contains all the applications and drivers installed on your machine. It may come in handy down the road. Also make the recovery discs as well. As for the ThinkVantage Tools, I only use the hotkey, drive protection, power manager and ultranav. Your mileage may vary.

Hi Fred and...

I'll take your advice and make a copy of the SWTools folder sounds like a good idea. I have made recovery discs before on a T61 but I can't remember where to find it I've been looking on the Lenovo support site but I must be blind or asleep as I haven't found the walk through yet. Also is there a list of the hotkey layout somewhere on the system? I'll try and find these things out but if someone knows offhand it would be good.

Thanks Fred for your reply it is appreciated