Total Shutdown not possible! - Idea???!

[argy110]

Hi,

Problem is, that after shutting down the battery icon turn off for 4 or 5 sec and then, even though device it totally braindead it turns on again, like being in standby and keeps sucking power.

Any Idea? I don't!

Apreciate any help.
tx,

Ralf

[Thane_Bitter]

If your ThinkPad is off, but still plugged in, the battery indicator will remain on. It's not a defect, its just letting you know that the laptop is still plugged. Depending on what the charge level of the battery, this icon may also blink green (indicating that the battery is recharging), or if the battery is very low (under 30% charge) but charging, blink orange.
If however the AC adapter is not plugged in, or your not docked with a port replicator or docking station, you unfortunately have a hardware issue.

Thane

[argy110]

Its like you said in your last sentence. The AC adaptor is disconnected and still the icon turn on - again. Because it shortly turns off and then on again to stay that way.

Hardware issue? [censored]!
Do you know which part of the hardware it could be - I'd replace it!

Or does anybody know a good place to get this fixed in Germany? Because I don't have any guarantee nomore.

tx,

Ralf

[Thane_Bitter]

Which ThinkPad series and model do you have?
The Series is usually printed near the right side hinge below the display. On the bottom of your ThinkPad locate a label with a barcode on it which will list 4 numbers followed by a dash and 3 more letters or number. For example, my laptop is an R31, 2656-6FU.
One more question, aside from this battery indicator problem, have you had any other issues with your ThinkPad?
Thane

[argy110]

Hi Tahne - tx,

Model is R51 2888-EGO.

The indicator problem is the only thing I got with this book. The screen is a little loose, but nothing else in the curciut.

What did you think when you asked the question. Looking for hints?

tx, Ralf

[Thane_Bitter]

Hi argy110,

First off verify that you have the latest system BIOS and Embedded Controller firmware; the most resent versions for both items are a year old, however do make references to changes with battery/power management. Try running PC-doctor for DOS (there is a CD version available for your system if you don’t happen to have a floppy drive) just to verify that there no other issues with your system.
Secondly, since you mention a slightly loose screen it is possible that some of the connectors have come apart. If you feel comfortable about opening up your ThinkPad I suggest that you try reseating the LCD panel connector on the system board, and the inverter card inside the LCD panel assembly. In either case you will have to open up and remove several sub assemblies to get to these connectors, but if you have the time and the tools it’s not going to cost you anything. Go to IBM/Lenovo and download the Hardware Maintenance Manual (HMM) for your system and study the appropriate sections; the upside to this operation is you may be able to reduce the looseness of the LCD panel by tightening up the screws that secure lid hinges.
Thirdly, if the connectors are seated, other possibilities are a faulty system board (expensive to replace) or a faulty inverter card assembly which also contains the battery & other indicators (less expensive). From the systems you have previously described that indicator acts exactly as it would if the system was plugged in with the AC adapter; this kind of makes me think that something’s gone on the main board, but it is odd only this indicator would be effected. The inverter card assembly also contains the indicator LEDs, and is much less expensive to change.
Hopefully it's just the connectors - good luck!

Thane

[argy110]

Tx Thane,

Well, thats some tutorial. In the nearest future I wont habe time for this operation. But I kind of feel like tighening the LCD and who knows, maybe I see a little something on my way down into thos computer guds.

But really a great Thankyou,

arg