How to use the Update Model Number function in BIOS updates?

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virge · #1 Post by **virge** » Wed Sep 09, 2009 5:14 am

Background: I have a T40 that boots to a RFID error. It works fine after pushing "Esc" but I would like to fix it. One thing that seems to have worked for some people is deleting, then re-entering the model/UUID information.

Problem: Here's where I need a little help. Using the BIOS update file from IBM/Lenovo, I was able to delete the old number. I am trying to enter the new (actually the same) model number. The screen shows _____-____. The cursor is in the second (3 digit) portion of the blanks, and I can't get it over to the other side. At this point, I can only get it to accept 3 digits.

This seems like something simple... but its 3AM over here, and I just don't see it. If anyone who's done this before could give me a tip, I'd appreciate it.

#2 Post by **RealBlackStuff** » Wed Sep 09, 2009 1:30 pm

To enter/change the laptop's serial numbers, model/type etc. you need the HMD or Hardware Maintenance Diskette.

EDIT: I have made a new post in the *How to and FAQ* Forum with the latest official (Lenovo) download address
http://forum.thinkpads.com/viewtopic.php?f=31&t=80127

killer · #3 Post by **killer** » Wed Sep 09, 2009 2:25 pm

Blimey, RBS, that's clever of you.

I saw virge's question early this morning and hadn't a clue.

virge · #4 Post by **virge** » Wed Sep 09, 2009 4:03 pm

Double

to you RBS. Silly how the BIOS update program will let me delete the Model Number and not re-enter it.

Thanks for the help and the link to the HMD. I will be trying this out as soon as I get home!

TTA · #5 Post by **TTA** » Wed Sep 09, 2009 4:44 pm

it's a very handy utility to have. I've 'talked' easy serve into letting me download it before so I don't think it's as hush hush as people think.
RFID error could be a bad eeprom though if I remember correctly. (it's been a long time, we've just been reading and (doing unmentionable things with them) for years

If that's the case I do have some bad boards with GPU issues I'd ship for next to nothing. (if you had to replace your eeprom of course)

#6 Post by **RealBlackStuff** » Wed Sep 09, 2009 5:17 pm

AFAIK you can disable the RFID in your BIOS, that would also help.
I have yet to see an RFID unit in any Thinkpad (and I have seen only about 120 so far...)

virge · #7 Post by **virge** » Wed Sep 09, 2009 10:21 pm

RBS, the HMD did the trick.

Thanks for the suggestion and the link to the file!

#8 Post by **RealBlackStuff** » Thu Sep 10, 2009 4:53 am

You're welcome. Glad it worked for you.

How to use the Update Model Number function in BIOS updates?

How to use the Update Model Number function in BIOS updates?

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Re: How to use the Update Model Number function in BIOS updates?

Re: How to use the Update Model Number function in BIOS updates?

Re: How to use the Update Model Number function in BIOS updates?

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