Chapter 8. Replacing FRUs - CNET Content Solutions

Chapter 12. Additional Service Information
Security features
BIOS levels
This chapter provides additional information that the service representative might
find helpful.
Security features in this section include the following:
v Passwords
v Vital Product Data
v Management Information Format (MIF)
Hardware controlled Passwords
Hardware controlled passwords are set using the Setup Utility program. For more
information about passwords, see “Using passwords” on page 51.
Operating system password
An operating system password is very similar to a power-on password and denies
access to the computer by an unauthorized user when the password is activated.
The computer is unusable until the password is entered and recognized by the
computer.
Vital product data
Each computer has a unique Vital Product Data (VPD) code stored in the
nonvolatile memory on the system board. After you replace the system board, the
VPD must be updated. To update the VPD, see “Updating (flashing) BIOS from a
CD-ROM or diskette” on page 786.
An incorrect level of BIOS can cause false errors and unnecessary FRU
replacement. Use the following information to determine the current level of BIOS
installed in the computer, the latest BIOS available for the computer, and where to
obtain the latest level of BIOS.
v To determine the current Level of BIOS:
– Start the Setup Utility.
– Select Standard CMOS Features.
v Sources for obtaining the latest level BIOS available
1. Lenovo support web site:
http://www.lenovo.com/support/
2. Lenovo Customer Support Center
3. Levels 1 and 2 Support
To update (flash) the BIOS, see “Updating (flashing) BIOS from a CD-ROM or
diskette” on page 786.
© Lenovo 2005, 2008. Portions © IBM Corp. 2005. 785