Table of Contents
- About this manual
- Chapter 1. Safety information
- Chapter 2. Important service information
- Chapter 3. General checkout
- Chapter 4. Related service information
- Chapter 5. Configuring RAID
- Chapter 6. Special keys
- Chapter 7. Locations
- Chapter 8. FRU replacement notices
- Chapter 9. Removing or replacing a FRU
- General guidelines
- Before servicing the computer
- Removing a major FRU
- 1010 Bottom cover
- 1020 Storage drive
- 1030 Memory module under the bottom cover
- 1040 Coin-cell battery
- 1050 Keyboard
- 1060 Memory module bracket under the keyboard
- 1070 Wireless LAN card
- 1080 Wireless WAN card
- 1090 Built-in battery
- 1110 Keyboard bezel assembly
- 1120 NFC module, cable and antenna
- 1130 Fingerprint reader cable, bracket and board
- 1140 trackpad cable and trackpad buttons with cable
- 1150 Power button board with cable
- 1160 Hinge caps
- 1170 LCD unit
- 1180 Smart card reader and smart card reader cable
- 1190 Chassis assembly
- 1210 Memory module under the keyboard
- 1220 Speaker assembly
- 1230 Thermal fan assembly
- 1240 System board
- 1250 dc-in bracket, dc-in cable assembly, and base cover assembly
- Removing an LCD FRU for non-touch models
- Removing an LCD FRU for touch models
- Appendix A. Notices
Lenovo P53 User Manual
Displayed below is the user manual for P53 by Lenovo which is a product in the Notebooks category. This manual has pages.
Related Manuals
ThinkPad P53
Hardware Maintenance Manual
Note: Before using this information and the product it supports, be sure to read the general information
under Appendix A “Notices” on page 117.
First Edition (July 2019)
© Copyright Lenovo 2019.
LIMITED AND RESTRICTED RIGHTS NOTICE: If data or software is delivered pursuant to a General Services
Administration “GSA” contract, use, reproduction, or disclosure is subject to restrictions set forth in Contract No. GS-
35F-05925.
Contents
About this manual . . . . . . . . . . . . iii
Chapter 1. Safety information . . . . . . 1
General safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Electrical safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Safety inspection guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Handling devices that are sensitive to electrostatic
discharge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Grounding requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Safety notices (multilingual translations) . . . . . . 4
Chapter 2. Important service
information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Strategy for replacing FRUs . . . . . . . . . . 21
Strategy for replacing a hard disk drive or a
solid-state drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Important notice for replacing a system
board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
How to use error message . . . . . . . . . 22
Strategy for replacing FRUs for CTO, special-bid,
and standard models. . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Product definition . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
FRU identification . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Chapter 3. General checkout . . . . . 25
What to do first . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Checkout guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Diagnosing problems . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Quick test programs . . . . . . . . . . . 27
UEFI diagnostic program . . . . . . . . . 27
Bootable diagnostic programs . . . . . . . 27
Power system checkout . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Checking the ac power adapter . . . . . . . 28
Checking the operational charging . . . . . 29
Checking the battery pack . . . . . . . . . 29
Checking the coin-cell battery . . . . . . . 30
Chapter 4. Related service
information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Recovery overview for the Windows 10 operating
system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Resetting your computer . . . . . . . . . 31
Using advanced startup options . . . . . . 31
Recovering your operating system if Windows
10 fails to start . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Creating and using a recovery USB drive . . . 32
Passwords. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Power-on password . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Hard disk password . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Supervisor password . . . . . . . . . . . 33
System management password. . . . . . . 33
How to remove the power-on password . . . 34
How to remove the hard disk password. . . . 34
How to remove the system management
password . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Power management . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Sleep mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Hibernation mode . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Symptom-to-FRU index . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Numeric error codes . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Beep errors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
No-beep symptoms . . . . . . . . . . . 41
LCD-related symptoms . . . . . . . . . . 41
Intermittent problems . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Undetermined problems . . . . . . . . . 42
Chapter 5. Configuring RAID . . . . . 43
Storage drive requirements for RAID levels . . . . 43
Configuring RAID with the Intel RST configuration
utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Entering the Intel RST configuration utility . . . 44
Creating RAID volumes . . . . . . . . . . 44
Deleting RAID volumes . . . . . . . . . . 45
Resetting storage drives to non-RAID . . . . 45
Rebuilding RAID 1 volumes . . . . . . . . 46
Rebuilding RAID 5 volumes . . . . . . . . 46
Chapter 6. Special keys . . . . . . . . 49
Chapter 7. Locations . . . . . . . . . 51
Locating computer controls, connectors, and
indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Front view . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Base view . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Left view . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Right view . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Rear view . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Bottom view . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Locating FRUs and CRUs . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Major FRUs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
LCD FRUs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Miscellaneous parts . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Connector and cable guide . . . . . . . . 60
Looking up FRU information . . . . . . . . . . 65
© Copyright Lenovo 2019 i
Chapter 8. FRU replacement
notices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Service tool kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Screw notices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Retaining serial numbers . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Restoring the serial number of the system
unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Retaining the UUID. . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Reading or writing the ECA information . . . . 70
Chapter 9. Removing or replacing a
FRU. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
General guidelines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Before servicing the computer . . . . . . . . . 72
Disable the built-in battery . . . . . . . . . 72
Removing the nano-SIM card . . . . . . . 72
Removing a major FRU . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
1010 Bottom cover. . . . . . . . . . . . 73
1020 Storage drive . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
1030 Memory module under the bottom
cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
1040 Coin-cell battery . . . . . . . . . . 77
1050 Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
1060 Memory module bracket under the
keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
1070 Wireless LAN card . . . . . . . . . . 81
1080 Wireless WAN card . . . . . . . . . 81
1090 Built-in battery . . . . . . . . . . . 82
1110 Keyboard bezel assembly . . . . . . . 83
1120 NFC module, cable and antenna . . . . 84
1130 Fingerprint reader cable, bracket and
board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
1140 trackpad cable and trackpad buttons
with cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
1150 Power button board with cable . . . . . 87
1160 Hinge caps . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
1170 LCD unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
1180 Smart card reader and smart card reader
cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
1190 Chassis assembly . . . . . . . . . . 92
1210 Memory module under the keyboard . . 93
1220 Speaker assembly. . . . . . . . . . 94
1230 Thermal fan assembly . . . . . . . . 94
1240 System board . . . . . . . . . . . 96
1250 dc-in bracket, dc-in cable assembly, and
base cover assembly . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Removing an LCD FRU for non-touch models . . . 100
2010 LCD bezel assembly . . . . . . . . . 100
2020 LED card . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
2030 LCD panel, LCD cable, and hinge
assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
2040 Microphone board. . . . . . . . . . 104
2050 Camera card and LED camera cable
assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
2060 Antenna kit and LCD rear cover
assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
Removing an LCD FRU for touch models . . . . . 109
3010 LCD strip bezel . . . . . . . . . . . 109
3020 LED card . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
3030 LCD panel assembly, LCD cable, and
hinge assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
3040 Camera card and LED camera cable
assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
3050 Antenna kit and LCD rear cover
assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
Appendix A. Notices . . . . . . . . . . 117
ii ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
About this manual
This manual contains service and reference information for the following ThinkPad® products.
ThinkPad P53 Machine Types (MT) 20QN and 20QQ
Use this manual along with the advanced diagnostic tests to troubleshoot problems.
Important: This manual is intended only for trained service technicians who are familiar with ThinkPad
products. Use this manual along with the advanced diagnostic tests to troubleshoot problems effectively.
Before servicing a ThinkPad product, be sure to read all the information under Chapter 1 “Safety information”
on page 1 and Chapter 2 “Important service information” on page 21.
© Copyright Lenovo 2019 iii
iv ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
Chapter 1. Safety information
This chapter presents following safety information that you need to be familiar with before you service a
ThinkPad notebook computer.
• “General safety” on page 1
• “Electrical safety” on page 1
• “Safety inspection guide” on page 2
• “Handling devices that are sensitive to electrostatic discharge” on page 3
• “Grounding requirements” on page 4
• “Safety notices (multilingual translations)” on page 4
General safety
Follow these rules to ensure general safety:
• Observe good housekeeping in the area of the machines during and after maintenance.
• When lifting any heavy object:
1. Make sure that you can stand safely without slipping.
2. Distribute the weight of the object equally between your feet.
3. Use a slow lifting force. Never move suddenly or twist when you attempt to lift.
4. Lift by standing or by pushing up with your leg muscles; this action removes the strain from the
muscles in your back. Do not attempt to lift any object that weighs more than 16 kg (35 lb) or that you
think is too heavy for you.
• Do not perform any action that causes hazards to the customer, or that makes the equipment unsafe.
• Before you start the machine, make sure that other service technicians and the customer's personnel are
not in a hazardous position.
• Place removed covers and other parts in a safe place, away from all personnel, while you are servicing the
machine.
• Keep your toolcase away from walk areas so that other people will not trip over it.
• Do not wear loose clothing that can be trapped in the moving parts of a machine. Make sure that your
sleeves are fastened or rolled up above your elbows. If your hair is long, fasten it.
• Insert the ends of your necktie or scarf inside clothing or fasten it with a nonconductive clip, about 8
centimeters (3 inches) from the end.
• Do not wear jewelry, chains, metal-frame eyeglasses, or metal fasteners for your clothing.
Attention: Metal objects are good electrical conductors.
• Wear safety glasses when you are hammering, drilling, soldering, cutting wire, attaching springs, using
solvents, or working in any other conditions that might be hazardous to your eyes.
• After service, reinstall all safety shields, guards, labels, and ground wires. Replace any safety device that
is worn or defective.
• Reinstall all covers correctly before returning the machine to the customer.
• Fan louvers on the machine help to prevent overheating of internal components. Do not obstruct fan
louvers or cover them with labels or stickers.
Electrical safety
Observe the following rules when working on electrical equipment.
Important: Use only approved tools and test equipment. Some hand tools have handles covered with a soft
material that does not insulate you when working with live electrical currents. Many customers have, near
their equipment, rubber floor mats that contain small conductive fibers to decrease electrostatic discharges.
Do not use this type of mat to protect yourself from electrical shock.
© Copyright Lenovo 2019 1
• Find the room emergency power-off (EPO) switch, disconnecting switch, or electrical outlet. If an electrical
accident occurs, you can then operate the switch or unplug the power cord quickly.
• Do not work alone under hazardous conditions or near equipment that has hazardous voltages.
• Disconnect all power before:
– Performing a mechanical inspection
– Working near power supplies
– Removing or installing main units
• Before you start to work on the machine, unplug the power cord. If you cannot unplug it, ask the customer
to power-off the wall box that supplies power to the machine, and to lock the wall box in the off position.
• If you need to work on a machine that has exposed electrical circuits, observe the following precautions:
– Ensure that another person, familiar with the power-off controls, is near you.
Attention: Another person must be there to switch off the power, if necessary.
– Use only one hand when working with powered-on electrical equipment; keep the other hand in your
pocket or behind your back.
Attention: An electrical shock can occur only when there is a complete circuit. By observing the above
rule, you may prevent a current from passing through your body.
– When using testers, set the controls correctly and use the approved probe leads and accessories for
that tester.
– Stand on suitable rubber mats (obtained locally, if necessary) to insulate you from grounds such as
metal floor strips and machine frames.
Observe the special safety precautions when you work with very high voltages; Instructions for these
precautions are in the safety sections of maintenance information. Use extreme care when measuring high
voltages.
• Regularly inspect and maintain your electrical hand tools for safe operational condition.
• Do not use worn or broken tools and testers.
• Never assume that power has been disconnected from a circuit. First, check that it has been powered off.
• Always look carefully for possible hazards in your work area. Examples of these hazards are moist floors,
nongrounded power extension cables, power surges, and missing safety grounds.
• Do not touch live electrical circuits with the reflective surface of a plastic dental mirror. The surface is
conductive; such touching can cause personal injury and machine damage.
• Do not service the following parts with the power on when they are removed from their normal operating
places in a machine:
– Power supply units
– Pumps
– Blowers and fans
– Motor generators
– Similar units to listed above
This practice ensures correct grounding of the units.
• If an electrical accident occurs:
– Use caution; do not become a victim yourself.
– Switch off power.
– Send another person to get medical aid.
Safety inspection guide
The purpose of this inspection guide is to assist you in identifying potentially unsafe conditions. As each
machine was designed and built, required safety items were installed to protect users and service
technicians from injury. This guide addresses only those items. You should use good judgment to identify
potential safety hazards due to attachment of non-ThinkPad features or options not covered by this
inspection guide.
If any unsafe conditions are present, you must determine how serious the apparent hazard could be and
whether you can continue without first correcting the problem.
2ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
Consider these conditions and the safety hazards they present:
• Electrical hazards, especially primary power (primary voltage on the frame can cause serious or fatal
electrical shock)
• Explosive hazards, such as a damaged CRT face or a bulging capacitor
• Mechanical hazards, such as loose or missing hardware
To determine whether there are any potentially unsafe conditions, use the following checklist at the
beginning of every service task. Begin the checks with the power off, and the power cord disconnected.
Checklist:
1. Check exterior covers for damage (loose, broken, or sharp edges).
2. Power off the computer. Disconnect the power cord.
3. Check the power cord for:
a. A third-wire ground connector in good condition. Use a meter to measure third-wire ground
continuity for 0.1 ohm or less between the external ground pin and the frame ground.
b. The power cord should be the authorized type specified for your computer. Go to: https://
support.lenovo.com/partslookup
c. Insulation must not be frayed or worn.
4. Check for cracked or bulging batteries.
5. Remove the cover.
6. Check for any obvious non-ThinkPad alterations. Use good judgment as to the safety of any non-
ThinkPad alterations.
7. Check inside the unit for any obvious unsafe conditions, such as metal filings, contamination, water or
other liquids, or signs of fire or smoke damage.
8. Check for worn, frayed, or pinched cables.
9. Check that the power-supply cover fasteners (screws or rivets) have not been removed or tampered
with.
Handling devices that are sensitive to electrostatic discharge
Any computer part containing transistors or integrated circuits (ICs) should be considered sensitive to
electrostatic discharge (ESD.) ESD damage can occur when there is a difference in charge between objects.
Protect against ESD damage by equalizing the charge so that the machine, the part, the work mat, and the
person handling the part are all at the same charge.
Notes:
1. Use product-specific ESD procedures when they exceed the requirements noted here.
2. Make sure that the ESD protective devices you use have been certified (ISO 9000) as fully effective.
When handling ESD-sensitive parts:
• Keep the parts in protective packages until they are inserted into the product.
• Avoid contact with other people.
• Wear a grounded wrist strap against your skin to eliminate static on your body.
• Prevent the part from touching your clothing. Most clothing is insulative and retains a charge even when
you are wearing a wrist strap.
• Use a grounded work mat to provide a static-free work surface. The mat is especially useful when
handling ESD-sensitive devices.
• Select a grounding system, such as those listed below, to provide protection that meets the specific
service requirement.
Note: The use of a grounding system to guard against ESD damage is desirable but not necessary.
– Attach the ESD ground clip to any frame ground, ground braid, or green-wire ground.
Chapter 1.Safety information 3
– When working on a double-insulated or battery-operated system, use an ESD common ground or
reference point. You can use coax or connector-outside shells on these systems.
– Use the round ground prong of the ac plug on ac-operated computers.
Grounding requirements
Electrical grounding of the computer is required for operator safety and correct system function. Proper
grounding of the electrical outlet can be verified by a certified electrician.
Safety notices (multilingual translations)
The safety notices in this section are provided in the following languages:
• English
• Arabic
• Brazilian Portuguese
• French
• German
• Hebrew
• Japanese
• Korean
• Spanish
• Traditional Chinese
DANGER
DANGER
DANGER
4ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
6ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
PERIGO
PERIGO
PERIGO
PERIGO
PERIGO
8ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
DANGER
DANGER
DANGER
DANGER
VORSICHT
10 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
VORSICHT
VORSICHT
VORSICHT
12 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
14 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
16 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
18 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
20 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
Chapter 2. Important service information
This chapter introduces following important service information that applies to all machine types supported
by this manual:
• “Strategy for replacing FRUs” on page 21
– “Strategy for replacing a hard disk drive or a solid-state drive” on page 21
– “Important notice for replacing a system board” on page 22
– “How to use error message” on page 22
• “Strategy for replacing FRUs for CTO, special-bid, and standard models” on page 22
– “Product definition” on page 22
– “FRU identification” on page 22
Important:
• Advise customers to contact the Lenovo® Customer Support Center if they need any assistance in
obtaining or installing any software fixes, drivers, and UEFI BIOS downloads. Telephone numbers for
Lenovo Support are available at: https://pcsupport.lenovo.com/supportphonelist
• System Disassembly/Reassembly videos that show the FRU removals or replacements for the Lenovo
authorized service technicians are available in the following support site:
https://www.lenovoservicetraining.com/ion/
Strategy for replacing FRUs
Before replacing parts:
Ensure that all software fixes, drivers, and UEFI BIOS downloads are installed before replacing any FRUs
listed in this manual.
After a system board is replaced, ensure that the latest UEFI BIOS is loaded to the system board before
completing the service action.
To download software fixes, drivers, and UEFI BIOS, go to https://support.lenovo.com and follow the
instructions on the screen.
Use the following strategy to prevent unnecessary expense for replacing and servicing FRUs:
• If you are instructed to replace a FRU but the replacement does not correct the problem, reinstall the
original FRU before you continue.
• Some computers have both a processor board and a system board. If you are instructed to replace either
the processor board or the system board, and replacing one of them does not correct the problem,
reinstall that board, and then replace the other one.
• If an adapter or a device consists of more than one FRU, any of the FRUs may be the cause of the error.
Before replacing the adapter or device, remove the FRUs, one by one, to see if the symptoms change.
Replace only the FRU that changed the symptoms.
Strategy for replacing a hard disk drive or a solid-state drive
Always try to run a low-level format before replacing a hard disk drive or a solid-state drive. This will cause all
customer data on the drive to be lost. Be sure that the customer has a current backup of the data before
doing this task.
Attention: The drive startup sequence in the computer you are servicing may have been changed. Be
extremely careful during write operations such as copying, saving, or formatting. If you select an incorrect
drive, data or programs can be overwritten.
© Copyright Lenovo 2019 21
Important notice for replacing a system board
Some components mounted on a system board are very sensitive. Improper handling of a system board can
cause damage to those components, and may cause a system malfunction.
Attention: When handling a system board:
• Do not drop a system board or apply any excessive force to it.
• Avoid rough handling of any kind.
• Avoid bending a system board and hard pushing to prevent cracking at each BGA (Ball Grid Array)
chipset.
How to use error message
Use the error codes displayed on the screen to diagnose failures. If more than one error code is displayed,
begin the diagnosis with the first error code. Whatever causes the first error code may also cause false error
codes. If no error code is displayed, see whether the error symptom is listed in the Symptom-to-FRU Index
for the computer you are servicing.
Strategy for replacing FRUs for CTO, special-bid, and standard models
This topic provides information about the model types and FRU identification.
Product definition
This topic introduces different model types and how to identify each type.
Dynamic Configure To Order (CTO) model
This model provides the ability for a customer to configure a Lenovo solution from a Web Site, and have this
configuration sent to fulfillment, where it is built and shipped directly to the customer. The machine label and
eSupport will load these products as the 4-character MT, 4-character model, and 2-character country code.
The model is “CTO1” and the default country code is “WW” (example: 20AACTO1WW).
Special-bid model
This is a unique configuration that has been negotiated between Lenovo and the customer. A unique MTM
consists of a 4-character MT, a 4-character model, and a numeric 2-character country code is provided to
the customer to place orders (example: 20AA000955). The country code assigned is numeric and does not
designate a specific country or region. The custom model factsheet for the MTM indicates which country the
special bid MTM is set up for. Special-bid offering is not generally announced.
Standard model
Standard models (fixed configuration) are announced and offered to all customers. The MTM portion of the
machine label consists of a 4-character MT, a 4-character model, and an alphabetic 2-character country
code. The country code assigned is alphabetic and represents a designated country or region (example:
20AA0009UK).
FRU identification
Use Lenovo eSupport to identify major FRUs, FRU part numbers, and FRU descriptions for a product at an
MT - serial number level. Examples of major FRUs are hard disk drive, system board, liquid crystal display
(LCD), and memory module.
To identify FRUs for a product, do the following:
1. Go to:
https://support.lenovo.com/partslookup
22 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
24 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
Chapter 3. General checkout
This chapter introduces following information:
• “What to do first” on page 25
• “Checkout guide” on page 26
– “Diagnosing problems” on page 26
– “Quick test programs” on page 27
– “UEFI diagnostic program” on page 27
– “Bootable diagnostic programs” on page 27
• “Power system checkout” on page 28
Before you go to the checkout guide, be sure to read the following important notes.
Important notes:
• Only certified trained personnel should service the computer.
• Before replacing any FRU, read the entire page on removing and replacing FRUs.
• When you replace FRUs, it is recommended use new nylon-coated screws.
• Be extremely careful during such write operations as copying, saving, or formatting. The sequence
of the drives in the computer that you are servicing might have been altered. If you select an incorrect
drive, data or programs might be overwritten.
• Replace a FRU only with another FRU of the correct model. When you replace a FRU, ensure that the
model of the machine and the FRU part number are correct by referring to the web site: https://
support.lenovo.com/partslookup
• A FRU should not be replaced because of a single, unreproducible failure. Single failures can occur
for a variety of reasons that have nothing to do with a hardware defect, such as cosmic radiation,
electrostatic discharge, or software errors. Consider replacing a FRU only when a problem recurs. If you
suspect that a FRU is defective, clear the error log and run the test again. If the error does not recur, do
not replace the FRU.
• Be careful not to replace a nondefective FRU.
What to do first
When you return a FRU, you must include the following information in the parts exchange form or parts return
form that you attach to it:
1. Name and phone number of service technician
2. Date of service
3. Date on which the machine failed
4. Date of purchase
5. Failure symptoms, error codes appearing on the display, and beep symptoms
6. Procedure index and page number in which the failing FRU was detected
7. Failing FRU name and part number
8. Machine type, model number, and serial number
9. Customer's name and address
Note: During the warranty period, the customer may be responsible for repair costs if the computer damage
was caused by misuse, accident, modification, unsuitable physical or operating environment, or improper
maintenance by the customer. Following is a list of some common items that are not covered under warranty
and some symptoms that might indicate that the system was subjected to stress beyond normal use.
© Copyright Lenovo 2019 25
Before checking problems with the computer, determine whether the damage is covered under the warranty
by referring to the following list:
The following are not covered under warranty:
• LCD panel cracked from the application of excessive force or from being dropped
• Scratched (cosmetic) parts
• Distortion, deformation, or discoloration of the cosmetic parts
• Plastic parts, latches, pins, or connectors that have been cracked or broken by excessive force
• Damage caused by liquid spilled into the system
• Damage caused by the improper insertion of a personal-computer card (PC card) or the installation of an
incompatible card
• Improper disc insertion or use of an optical drive
• Fuses blown by attachment of a nonsupported device
• Forgotten computer password (making the computer unusable)
• Sticky keys caused by spilling a liquid onto the keyboard
• Use of an incorrect ac power adapter on laptop products
The following symptoms might indicate damage caused by nonwarranted activities:
• Missing parts might be a symptom of unauthorized service or modification.
• Check for obvious damage to a hard disk drive. If the spindle of a hard disk drive becomes noisy, the hard
disk drive might have been dropped or subject to excessive force.
Checkout guide
Use the following procedures as a guide in identifying and correcting problems with the ThinkPad notebook
computers.
Note: The diagnostic tests are intended to test only ThinkPad products. The use of non-ThinkPad products,
prototype cards, or modified options can lead to false indications of errors and invalid system responses.
1. Identify the failing symptoms in as much detail as possible.
2. Verify the symptoms. Try to re-create the failure by running the diagnostic test or by repeating the
operation.
Diagnosing problems
Many computer problems can be solved without outside assistance. If you experience a problem with your
computer, the first place to start is the troubleshooting information in your computer documentation. If you
suspect a software problem, see the documentation, including readme files and help information systems,
that come with the operating system or program. ThinkPad notebook computers come with a set of
diagnostic programs that you can use to help you identify hardware problems.
Diagnosing problems with Lenovo Vantage on the Windows 10 operating system
Note: If you are unable to isolate and repair the problem yourself after running Lenovo Vantage, save and
print the log files created by the program. You need the log files when you speak to a Lenovo technical
support representative.
Lenovo Vantage supports the hardware scan function. It combines diagnostic tests, system information
collection, security status, and support information, along with hints and tips for optimal system
performance.
The troubleshooting information or the diagnostic programs might tell you that you need additional or
updated device drivers or other software. You can get the latest technical information and download device
drivers and updates from the Lenovo Support Web site at:
26 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
https://support.lenovo.com
For additional information, see the Lenovo Vantage help system.
Quick test programs
Lenovo provides quick test programs to troubleshoot and resolve computer problems.
To download and install a quick test program, go to https://www.lenovo.com/diags, and follow the instructions
on the Web site.
To run a test using quick test program, do the following:
1. Go to the C:\SWTOOLS\ldiag directory.
2. Double-click the lsc_lite.exe file.
3. When the User Account Control window opens, click Yes.
4. Select the device class to be tested.
5. Select the devices to be tested.
6. Select the test to be performed.
7. Follow the instructions on the screen to start the test. When a problem is detected, information
messages are displayed. Refer to the messages to troubleshoot the problem.
UEFI diagnostic program
A UEFI diagnostic program is preinstalled on the computer. It enables you to test memory modules and
internal storage devices, view system information, and check and recover bad sectors on internal storage
devices.
To run the UEFI diagnostic program, do the following:
1. Turn on the computer. If the computer cannot be turned on, go to “Power system checkout” on page 28,
and check the power sources. If an error code is displayed, go to “Symptom-to-FRU index” on page 36
for error code descriptions and troubleshooting hints.
2. When the logo screen is displayed, repeatedly press and release the F10 key. The main screen of the
UEFI diagnostic program is displayed.
3. Follow the instructions on the screen to use the diagnostic program.
Bootable diagnostic programs
If the computer you are servicing is not installed with the UEFI diagnostic program, you can download a
bootable diagnostic program from the Lenovo Support Web site. The bootable diagnostic programs enable
you to test computer memory and internal storage devices, view system information, and check and recover
the internal storage devices. To use the bootable diagnostic programs, you can create a bootable diagnostic
medium on a USB device or CD.
To create a bootable diagnostic medium, do the following:
1. Go to https://www.lenovo.com/diags.
2. Click Lenovo Bootable Diagnostics.
3. Follow the instructions on the Web site to create a bootable diagnostic medium on a USB device or CD.
To use the diagnostic medium you have created, do one of the following:
• If you have created the bootable diagnostic medium on a USB device, do the following:
Chapter 3.General checkout 27
1. Attach the USB device to the computer.
2. Turn on the computer. If the computer cannot be turned on, go to “Power system checkout” on page
28, and check the power sources. If an error code is displayed, go to “Symptom-to-FRU index” on
page 36 for error code descriptions and troubleshooting hints.
3. When the logo screen is displayed, repeatedly press and release the F12 key. When the Boot Menu
window opens, release the F12 key.
4. Use the arrow keys to select USB HDD and then press Enter. The diagnostic program will be
launched automatically.
5. Follow the instructions on the screen to use the diagnostic program.
• If you have created the bootable diagnostic medium on a CD, do the following:
1. Turn on the computer. If the computer cannot be turned on, go to “Power system checkout” on page
28, and check the power sources. If an error code is displayed, go to “Symptom-to-FRU index” on
page 36 for error code descriptions and troubleshooting hints.
2. Insert the CD into the optical drive.
3. Restart the computer.
4. When the logo screen is displayed, repeatedly press and release the F12 key. When the Boot Menu
window opens, release the F12 key.
5. Use the arrow keys to select ATAPI CDx (x: 0, 1, ...) and then press Enter. The diagnostic program will
be launched automatically.
6. Follow the instructions on the screen to use the diagnostic program.
Power system checkout
To verify if a battery pack or an ac power adapter is functional, do the following:
1. Turn off the computer.
2. Connect the ac power adapter.
3. Turn on the computer. If the computer can be turned on, it means that either the battery pack or the ac
power adapter is functional.
4. Insert a straightened paper clip into the emergency reset hole to reset the computer. If the computer is
still powered on, it means that the ac power adapter is functional.
5. Turn off the computer.
6. Disconnect the ac power adapter and turn on the computer. If the computer can be turned on, it means
that the battery pack is functional.
If you suspect a power problem, see the appropriate one of the following power supply checkouts:
• “Checking the ac power adapter” on page 28
• “Checking the operational charging” on page 29
• “Checking the coin-cell battery” on page 30
Checking the ac power adapter
To check the ac power adapter, do the following:
1. Unplug the ac power adapter cable from the computer.
2. Measure the output voltage at the plug of the ac power adapter cable. See the following illustration:
28 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
(20V)
1
3
2
Pin Voltage (V dc)
1 +20
2 0
3Ground
Note: Output voltage of pin 2 of the ac power adapter might differ from the one you are servicing.
3. If the voltage is not correct, replace the ac power adapter.
4. If the voltage is acceptable, replace the system board.
Note: Noise from the ac power adapter does not always indicate a defect.
If the computer does not charge during operation, go to “Checking the operational charging” on page 29.
Checking the operational charging
This computer supports only batteries specially designed for this specific system and manufactured by
Lenovo or an authorized builder. The system does not support unauthorized batteries or batteries designed
for other systems. If an unauthorized battery or a battery designed for another systems is installed, the
system will not charge.
Attention: Lenovo has no responsibility for the performance or safety of unauthorized batteries, and
provides no warranties for failures or damage arising out of their use.
To check whether the battery charges properly during operation, do the following:
1. Discharge the battery until the remained battery power is less than 50%.
2. Connect the computer to ac power to charge the battery. If the battery status icon in the Windows
notification area indicates that the battery is not charging, remove the battery and let it return to room
temperature.
3. Reinstall the battery. If the battery is still not charging, replace the battery pack.
4. Check the battery status icon again. If the same error still exists, replace the system board.
Checking the battery pack
This computer supports only batteries specially designed for this specific system and manufactured by
Lenovo or an authorized builder. The system does not support unauthorized batteries or batteries designed
for other systems. If an unauthorized battery or a battery designed for another systems is installed, the
system will not charge.
Attention: Lenovo has no responsibility for the performance or safety of unauthorized batteries, and
provides no warranties for failures or damage arising out of their use.
Move your pointer to the battery-status icon in the Windows notification area to check the battery status. The
battery-status icon displays the percentage of battery power remaining and how long you can use your
computer before you must charge the battery.
To check whether the battery charges properly during operation, do the following:
1. Discharge the battery until the remained battery power is less than 50%.
Chapter 3.General checkout 29
2. Connect the computer to ac power to charge the battery. If the battery status icon in the Windows
notification area indicates that the battery is not charging, remove the battery and let it return to room
temperature.
3. Reinstall the battery. If the battery is still not charging, replace the battery.
4. Check the battery status icon again. If the same error still exists, replace the system board.
Checking the coin-cell battery
To check the coin-cell battery, do the following:
1. Remove the battery pack. See “1090 Built-in battery” on page 82.
2. Remove the coin-cell battery. See “1040 Coin-cell battery” on page 77.
3. Measure the voltage of the coin-cell battery. See the following illustration.
Wire Voltage (V dc)
Red +2.5 to +3.2
Black Ground
• If the voltage is correct, replace the system board.
• If the voltage is not correct, replace the coin-cell battery.
• If the coin-cell battery discharges quickly after replacement, replace the system board.
30 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
Chapter 4. Related service information
This chapter presents following information:
• “Recovery overview for the Windows 10 operating system” on page 31
• “Passwords” on page 32
• “Power management” on page 36
• “Symptom-to-FRU index” on page 36
Service Web site: When the latest maintenance diskette and the system program service diskette become
available, they will be posted on https://support.lenovo.com
Recovery overview for the Windows 10 operating system
The Windows recovery programs enable you to reset your computer or use advanced startup options.
It is recommended that you create a recovery USB drive as early as possible. Store the recovery USB drive
as a backup or replacement for the Windows recovery programs.
For more information, see “Creating and using a recovery USB drive” on page 32.
Resetting your computer
If your computer does not perform well, you might consider resetting your computer. In the resetting
process, you can choose to keep your files or remove them, and then reinstall the Windows operating
system.
To reset your computer, do the following:
Note: The graphical user interface (GUI) items of the operating system might change without notice.
1. Open the Start menu and then click Settings. If Settings is not displayed, click All apps to display all
programs, and then click Settings ➙ Update & security ➙ Recovery.
2. In the Reset this PC section, click Get started.
3. Follow the instructions on the screen to reset your computer.
Using advanced startup options
With advanced startup options, you can change the firmware settings of the computer, change the startup
settings of the Windows operating system, start the computer from an external device, or restore the
Windows operating system from a system image.
To use advanced startup options, do the following:
Note: The GUI items of the operating system might change without notice.
1. Open the Start menu and then click Settings. If Settings is not displayed, click All apps to display all
programs, and then click Settings ➙ Update & security ➙ Recovery.
2. In the Advanced startup section, click Restart now ➙ Troubleshoot ➙ Advanced options.
3. Select a desired startup option, then follow the instructions on the screen.
© Copyright Lenovo 2019 31
Recovering your operating system if Windows 10 fails to start
The Windows recovery environment on your computer is capable of operating independently from the
Windows 10 operating system. This enables you to recover or repair the operating system even if the
Windows 10 operating system fails to start.
After two consecutive failed boot attempts, the Windows recovery environment starts automatically. Then
you can choose repair and recovery options by following the instructions on the screen.
Note: Ensure that your computer is connected to ac power during the recovery process.
Creating and using a recovery USB drive
You can create a recovery USB drive as a backup for the Windows recovery programs. With the recovery
USB drive, you can troubleshoot and fix the problems even if the preinstalled Windows recovery programs
are damaged.
Creating a recovery USB drive
The USB drive that you use to create the recovery USB drive must be at least 16 GB of storage. The actual
USB capacity that is required depends on the size of the recovery image.
Attention: The creation process deletes anything stored on the USB drive. To avoid data loss, make a
backup copy of all the data that you want to keep.
To create a recovery USB drive, do the following:
Note: Ensure that your computer is connected to ac power during the following process.
1. Connect a proper USB drive (at least 16 GB of storage).
2. Type recovery in the search box on the taskbar. Then click Create a recovery drive.
3. Click Yes in the User Account Control window to allow the Recovery Media Creator program to start.
4. In the Recovery Drive window, follow the on-screen instructions to create a recovery USB drive.
Using the recovery USB drive
If you cannot start your computer, use the recovery USB drive to recover your computer.
To use a recovery USB drive, do the following:
Note: Ensure that your computer is connected to ac power.
1. Connect the recovery USB drive to the computer.
2. Turn on or restart the computer. Before the Windows operating system starts, repeatedly press the F12
key. The Boot Menu window opens.
3. Select the recovery USB drive as the boot device.
4. Select a preferred keyboard layout.
5. Click Troubleshoot to display the optional recovery solutions.
6. Select a corresponding recovery solution according to your situation. Then follow the instructions on the
screen to complete the process.
Passwords
As many as four passwords may be needed for any ThinkPad notebook computer: the power-on password,
the hard disk password, the supervisor password, and the system management password.
32 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
If any of these passwords has been set, a prompt for it will be displayed on the screen whenever the
computer is turned on. The computer does not start until the password is entered.
Note: If only a supervisor password is set, the password prompt will not be displayed when the operating
system is started.
Power-on password
A power-on password protects the system from being powered on by an unauthorized person. The
password must be entered before an operating system can be started. For instructions on how to remove the
power-on password, see “How to remove the power-on password” on page 34.
Hard disk password
There are two kinds of hard disk passwords:
• User hard disk password - for the user
• Master hard disk password - for the system administrator, who can use it to get access to the hard disk
even if the user has changed the user hard disk password
Note: There are two modes for the hard disk password: User only and Master + User. The Master + User
mode requires two hard disk passwords; the system administrator enters both in the same operation. The
system administrator then provides the user hard disk password to the system user.
Attention: If the user hard disk password has been forgotten, check whether a master hard disk password
has been set. If it has, it can be used for access to the hard disk drive. If no master hard disk password is
available, neither Lenovo nor Lenovo authorized service technicians provide any services to reset either the
user or the master hard disk password, or to recover data from the hard disk drive. The hard disk drive can
be replaced for a scheduled fee.
For how to remove the hard disk password, see “How to remove the hard disk password” on page 34.
Supervisor password
The supervisor password protects the system information stored in the ThinkPad Setup program. It provides
the following security features:
• If only a supervisor password is set, a password prompt is displayed when you try to start the ThinkPad
Setup program. Unauthorized users cannot change most of the system configuration options in the
ThinkPad Setup program without the password.
• The system administrator can use the supervisor password to access a computer even if the user of that
computer has set a power-on password. The supervisor password overrides the power-on password.
• The system administrator can set the same supervisor password on many ThinkPad notebook computers
to make administration easier.
Attention: If the supervisor password has been forgotten and cannot be made available to the service
technician, there is no service procedure to reset the password. The system board must be replaced for a
scheduled fee.
System management password
The system management password can also protect the system information stored in UEFI BIOS like a
supervisor password, but it has lower authority by default. The system management password can be set
through the UEFI BIOS menu or through Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI) with the Lenovo
client-management interface.
Chapter 4.Related service information 33
You can enable the system management password to have the same authority as the supervisor password
to control security related features. To customize the authority of the system management password through
the UEFI BIOS menu:
1. Enter the UEFI BIOS menu.
Note: When you are prompted by the icon , enter the correct supervisor password if a supervisor
password has been set, or enter the correct system management password if no supervisor password
has been set. Otherwise, you cannot change the configurations in the following steps.
2. Select Security ➙ Password ➙ System Management Password Access Control.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions.
If you have set both the supervisor password and the system management password, the supervisor
password overrides the system management password. If you have set both the system management
password and the power-on password, the system management password overrides the power-on
password.
How to remove the power-on password
To remove a power-on password, do the following:
If no supervisor password has been set, do the following to remove the power-on password:
1. Turn off the computer.
2. Remove the battery pack. For instructions on how to remove the battery pack, see “1090 Built-in
battery” on page 82.
3. Remove the coin-cell battery. For instructions on how to remove the coin-cell battery, see “1040 Coin-
cell battery” on page 77. Wait for a few seconds.
4. Reinstall the coin-cell battery. For instructions on how to install the coin-cell battery, see “1040 Coin-cell
battery” on page 77.
5. Reinstall the battery pack. For instructions on how to install the battery pack, see “1090 Built-in battery”
on page 82.
6. Turn on the computer and wait until the POST ends. After the POST ends, the password prompt does
not appear. The power-on password has been removed.
If a supervisor password has been set and is known to the service technician, do the following to remove the
power-on password:
1. Turn on the computer.
2. When the Lenovo logo is displayed, immediately press F1.
3. Type the supervisor password to enter the ThinkPad Setup program.
4. Select Security.
5. Select Password.
6. Select Power-On Password.
7. Type the current supervisor password in the Enter Current Password field. then leave the Enter New
Password field blank, and press Enter twice.
8. In the Changes have been saved window, press Enter.
9. Press F10 to save changes and exit the ThinkPad Setup program.
How to remove the hard disk password
Attention: If User only mode is selected and the user hard disk password has been forgotten and cannot be
made available to the service technician, neither Lenovo nor Lenovo authorized service technicians provide
34 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
any services to reset the user hard disk passwords, or to recover data from the hard disk drive. To put the
system back to operational status, the only Lenovo and Lenovo-authorized service solution would be to
replace the hard disk drive (HDD) or SSD with a scheduled fee.
To remove a user hard disk password that has been forgotten, when the supervisor password and master
hard disk password are known, do the following:
1. Turn on the computer.
2. When the ThinkPad logo comes up, immediately press F1 to enter the ThinkPad Setup program. When
the power-on password icon is displayed on the screen, enter either the power-on password or the
supervisor password.
3. When the user hard disk password icon is displayed on the screen, press F1. The master hard disk
password icon is displayed.
4. Enter the master hard disk password to enter the ThinkPad Setup program.
5. Select Security.
6. Select Password.
7. Select Hard-disk x password, where x is the letter of the hard disk drive. A pop-up window opens.
8. Select Master hard disk password.
9. Type the current master hard disk password in the Enter Current Password field. Then leave the Enter
New Password field blank, and press Enter twice.
10. Press F10 to save changes and exit the ThinkPad Setup program. The user hard disk password and the
master hard disk password have been removed.
How to remove the system management password
To remove a system management password, do the following:
If no supervisor password has been set, do the following to remove the system management password:
1. Turn off the computer and disconnect ac power.
2. Disable the built-in battery. See “Disable the built-in battery” on page 72.
3. Remove the base cover assembly. See “1010 Bottom cover” on page 73.
4. Remove the internal battery pack. See “1090 Built-in battery” on page 82.
5. Remove the coin-cell battery. See “1040 Coin-cell battery” on page 77.
6. Reinstall the coin-cell battery.
7. Reinstall the internal battery pack.
8. Reinstall the base cover assembly.
9. Reconnect ac power.
10. Turn on the computer and wait until the POST ends. After the POST ends, the password prompt does
not appear. The system management password has been removed.
If a supervisor password has been set and is known to the service technician, do the following to remove the
system management password:
1. Turn on the computer.
2. When the ThinkPad logo is displayed, immediately press F1.
3. Type the supervisor password to enter the ThinkPad Setup program.
4. Select Security.
5. Select Password.
6. Select System Management Password.
Chapter 4.Related service information 35
7. Type the current supervisor password in the Enter Current Password field. Then leave the Enter New
Password field blank, and press Enter twice.
8. In the Changes have been saved window, press Enter.
9. Press F10 to save changes and exit the ThinkPad Setup program. The system management password
has been removed.
Power management
To reduce power consumption, the computer has two power management modes: sleep and hibernation.
Sleep mode
When the computer enters sleep mode, the following events occur:
• The LCD is powered off.
• The hard disk drive or solid-state drive is powered off.
• The microprocessor stops.
To put your computer into sleep mode, press Fn+4 or open the Start menu, click Power, and then click
Sleep.
To return to normal operation, press the Fn key only.
In certain circumstances, the computer goes into sleep mode automatically:
• After a period of inactivity specified in power plan settings
• When the battery power is low
Hibernation mode
In hibernation mode, the following occurs:
• The system status, random access memory (RAM), video random access memory (VRAM), and setup data
are stored on the hard disk drive or solid-state drive.
• The system is powered off.
Note: If the computer enters the hibernation mode while it is docked to the docking station or the port
replicator, do not undock it before resuming normal operation. If you do undock it and then try to resume
normal operation, you will get an error message, and you will have to restart the system.
If you have defined one of the following actions as the event that causes the system to go into hibernation
mode, perform that action.
• Closing the lid.
• Pressing the power button.
Also, the computer goes into hibernation mode automatically after a period of inactivity specified in power
plan settings.
When the power is turned on, the computer returns from hibernation mode and resumes operation. The
hibernation file in the boot record on the hard disk drive or solid-state drive is read, and system status is
restored from the hard disk drive or solid-state drive.
Symptom-to-FRU index
This section contains following information:
• “Numeric error codes” on page 37
36 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
• “Error messages” on page 39
• “Beep errors” on page 39
• “No-beep symptoms” on page 41
• “LCD-related symptoms” on page 41
• “Intermittent problems” on page 42
• “Undetermined problems” on page 42
The symptom-to-FRU index in this section lists symptoms and errors and their possible causes. The most
likely cause is listed first, in boldface type.
Note: Do the FRU replacement or other actions in the sequence shown in the column headed “FRU or
action, in sequence.” If replacing a FRU does not solve the problem, put the original part back in the
computer. Do not replace a nondefective FRU.
This index can also help you determine, during regular servicing, what FRUs are likely to need to be replaced
next.
A numeric error is displayed for each error detected in POST or system operation. In the displays, n can be
any number.
If no numeric code is displayed, check the narrative descriptions of symptoms. If the symptom is not
described there, go to “Intermittent problems” on page 42.
Note: For a device not supported by diagnostic codes in the ThinkPad notebook computers, see the manual
for that device.
Numeric error codes
Table 1. Numeric error codes
Symptom or error FRU or action, in sequence
0177
Bad SVP data, stop POST task — The checksum of the
supervisor password in the EEPROM is not correct.
Replace the system board.
0183
Bad CRC of Security Settings in EFI Variable. Enter the
ThinkPad Setup program. – The checksum of the Security
settings in the EFI Variable is not correct.
1. Run the ThinkPad Setup program. The settings
will be corrected automatically. Then save the
current settings by pressing F10.
2. Replace the system board.
0187
EAIA data access error — The access to EEPROM is
failed.
Replace the system board.
0188
Invalid RFID Serialization Information Area.
Replace the system board.
0189
Invalid RFID configuration information area — The
EEPROM checksum is not correct.
Replace the system board.
0190
Critical low-battery error
1. Charge the battery pack.
2. Replace the battery pack.
0191
System Security — Invalid Remote Change requested.
1. Run the ThinkPad Setup program, and then save
current setting by pressing F10.
2. Replace the system board.
Chapter 4.Related service information 37
Table 1. Numeric error codes (continued)
Symptom or error FRU or action, in sequence
0199
System Security — Security password retry count
exceeded.
1. Run the ThinkPad Setup program. The retry count
will be reset. Then save the current settings by
pressing F10.
2. Replace the system board.
0270
Real Time Clock Error — System Real Time Clock is not
functional.
1. Run ThinkPad Setup to reset the time and date
2. Replace the coin-cell battery and run ThinkPad Setup
to reset the time and date.
0271
Check Date and Time settings — Neither the date nor the
time is set in the computer.
1. Run ThinkPad Setup to reset the time and date
2. Replace the coin-cell battery and run ThinkPad Setup
to reset the time and date.
1802
Unauthorized network card is plugged in — Turn off and
remove the network card.
1. Remove network card.
2. Replace the system board.
1820
More than one external fingerprint reader is attached.
Power off and remove all but the reader that you set up
within your main operating system.
Remove all but the reader that you set up for the
authentication.
2100
Detection error on HDD0 (Main HDD)
1. Reseat the hard disk drive.
2. Replace the main hard disk drive.
3. Replace the system board.
2101
Detection error on SSD0 (M.2)
Detection error on Storage Device0 (M.2)
1. Reseat the M.2 solid-state drive.
2. Replace the M.2 solid-state drive.
3. Replace the system board.
2102
Detection error on SSD1 (M.2)
Detection error on Storage Device1 (M.2)
1. Reseat the M.2 solid-state drive.
2. Replace the M.2 solid-state drive.
3. Replace the system board.
2103
Detection error on Storage Device2 (M.2)
1. Reseat the M.2 solid-state drive.
2. Replace the M.2 solid-state drive.
3. Replace the system board.
2110
Read error on HDD0 (Main HDD)
1. Reseat the hard disk drive.
2. Replace the main hard disk drive.
3. Replace the system board.
2111
Read error on SSD0 (M.2)
Read error on Storage Device0 (M.2)
1. Reseat the M.2 solid-state drive.
2. Replace the M.2 solid-state drive.
3. Replace the system board.
2112
Read error on SSD1 (M.2)
Read error on Storage Device1 (M.2)
1. Reseat the M.2 solid-state drive.
2. Replace the M.2 solid-state drive.
3. Replace the system board.
2113
Read error on Storage Device2 (M.2)
1. Reseat the M.2 solid-state drive.
2. Replace the M.2 solid-state drive.
3. Replace the system board.
2200
Machine Type and Serial Number are invalid.
Replace the system board.
2201
Machine UUID is invalid
Replace the system board.
38 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
Error messages
Table 2. Error messages
Symptom or error FRU or action, in sequence
Fan error. 1. Replace the fan.
2. Apply thermal grease.
3. Replace the system board.
One fan error. 1. Replace the fan.
2. Apply thermal grease.
3. Replace the system board.
Thermal sensing error. Replace the system board.
The non-volatile system UEFI variable storage is nearly
full.
Press F1 to enter ThinkPad Setup after the error message
is displayed. Then clean up the storage.
The battery installed is not supported by this system and
will not charge. Please replace the battery with the correct
Lenovo battery for this system. Press the ESC key to
continue.
Replace the battery.
This system does not support batteries that are not
genuine Lenovo made or authorized. The system will
continue to boot, but may not charge unauthorized
batteries. Press the ESC key to continue.
Attention: Lenovo has no responsibility for the
performance or safety of unauthorized batteries, and
provides no warranties for failures or damage arising out
of their use.
Replace the battery.
Beep errors
Lenovo SmartBeep technology enables you to decode beep errors with your smartphone when a black
screen occurs with beeps from your computer. To decode the beep error with Lenovo SmartBeep
technology, do the following:
1. Go to https://support.lenovo.com/smartbeep or scan the following QR Code.
2. Download the proper diagnostic app and install it on your smartphone.
3. Run the diagnostic app and place the smartphone near the computer.
4. Press the Fn key on your computer to emit the beep again. The diagnostic app decodes the beep error
and shows possible solutions on the smartphone.
The following section describes some beep errors and the corresponding solutions.
Note: Do not attempt to service a product yourself unless instructed to do so by the Customer Support
Center or product documentation. Only use a Lenovo-authorized service provider to repair your product.
Chapter 4.Related service information 39
Error codes Solutions
0001: Reset error (platform reset not de-asserted) 1. Remove the ac power adapter and the removable
battery if your computer has one. Then, reset the
computer by doing one of the following:
• For models with the emergency-reset hole,
insert a straightened paper clip into the
emergency-reset hole. Wait for one minute.
Then, reconnect all power resources and restart
the computer.
• For models without the emergency-reset hole,
press and hold the power button for about
seven seconds. Then, reconnect to all power
resources and restart the computer.
2. Replace the system board (service provider only).
0002: Internal bus error Replace the system board (service provider only).
0281: General embedded controller error Replace the system board (service provider only).
0282: Memory module error 1. Reinstall or replace the memory module.
2. Replace the system board (service provider only).
0283: PCI resource error 1. Remove PCIe devices (the M.2 card, PCIe card,
and so on) (service provider only).
2. Replace the system board (service provider only).
0284: TCG-compliant functionality-related error (might be
the BIOS code validation failure) Replace the system board (service provider only).
0285: TCG-compliant functionality-related error (might be
the TPM initialization failure) Replace the system board (service provider only).
0286: Integrated graphics error Replace the system board (service provider only).
0287: Discrete graphics error 1. Reinstall or replace the discrete graphics card
(service provider only).
2. Replace the system board (service provider only).
0288: Computer display error 1. Reconnect the display cable on both the system
board side and the computer display side (service
provider only).
2. Replace the system board (service provider only).
40 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
No-beep symptoms
Table 3. No-beep symptoms
Symptom or error FRU or action, in sequence
No beep, power-on indicator on, LCD blank, and no
POST.
1. Run LCD Self Test.
2. Ensure that every connector is connected tightly and
correctly.
3. Reseat memory module.
4. Replace the system board.
No beep, power-on indicator on, and LCD blank during
POST. 1. Run LCD Self Test.
2. Reseat memory module.
3. Replace the system board.
The power-on password prompt appears. A power-on password or a supervisor password is set.
Type the password and press Enter.
The hard-disk password prompt appears. A hard disk password is set. Type the password and
press Enter.
LCD-related symptoms
Important: The TFT LCD for the notebook computer contains many thin-film transistors (TFTs). The
presence of a small number of dots that are missing, discolored, or always lighted is characteristic of TFT
LCD technology, but excessive pixel problems can cause viewing concerns.If the LCD you are servicing has
two or less visible defective pixels, it should not be considered faulty. However, if the LCD has three or more
visible defective pixels, it will be deemed as defective by Lenovo and it should be replaced.
Notes:
• This policy applies to all ThinkPad notebooks purchased on 1 January, 2008 or later.
• Lenovo will not provide warranty replacement if the LCD is within specifications because we cannot
guarantee that any replacement LCD will have zero pixel defects.
• One pixel consists of R, G, B sub-pixels.
LCD Self Test
When you turn on the computer and the LCD goes black, run LCD Self Test to help you determine whether
the LCD functions normally.
To run LCD Self Test:
1. Ensure that the computer is connected to ac power. Then, press the power button for about seven
seconds to turn off the computer.
2. Press Fn, left Ctrl, and the power button at the same time. If the computer displays five solid colors in
sequence across the entire screen, it indicates that the LCD functions normally.
3. The test lasts for about 20 seconds and then exits automatically. You also can press the power button to
exit the test.
Chapter 4.Related service information 41
Table 4. LCD-related symptoms
Symptom or error FRU or action, in sequence
No beep, power-on indicator on, and a blank LCD during
POST.
1. Run LCD Self Test.
2. Replace the system board.
• LCD backlight not working.
• LCD too dark.
• LCD brightness cannot be adjusted.
• LCD contrast cannot be adjusted.
1. Reseat the LCD connectors.
2. Replace the LCD assembly.
3. Replace the system board.
• LCD screen unreadable.
• Characters missing pixels.
• Screen abnormal.
• Wrong color displayed.
1. See important note for “LCD-related symptoms.”
2. Reseat the LCD connectors.
3. Replace the LCD assembly.
4. Replace the system board.
Horizontal or vertical lines displayed on LCD. Replace the LCD assembly.
Intermittent problems
Intermittent system hang problems can be due to a variety of causes that have nothing to do with a hardware
defect, such as cosmic radiation, electrostatic discharge, or software errors. FRU replacement should be
considered only when a problem recurs.
When analyzing an intermittent problem, do the following:
1. Run the diagnostic test for the system board in loop mode at least 10 times.
2. If no error is detected, do not replace any FRUs.
3. If any error is detected, replace the FRU shown by the FRU code. Rerun the test to verify that no more
errors exist.
Undetermined problems
If the diagnostic tests did not identify the adapter or device that has failed, if wrong devices are installed, or if
the system simply is not operating, follow these procedures to isolate the failing FRU (do not isolate FRUs
that have no defects).
Verify that all attached devices are supported by the computer.
Verify that the power supply being used at the time of the failure is operating correctly. See “Power system
checkout” on page 28.
1. Turn off the computer.
2. Visually check each FRU for damage. Replace any damaged FRU.
3. Remove or disconnect all of the following devices:
a. Non-ThinkPad devices
b. Devices attached to the docking station or the port replicator
c. Printer, mouse, and other external devices
d. Battery pack
e. Hard disk drive or solid-state drive
f. External diskette drive or optical drive
g. Memory module
h. PC cards
4. Turn on the computer.
5. Determine whether the problem has been solved.
6. If the problem does not recur, reconnect the removed devices one at a time until you find the failing FRU.
7. If the problem remains, replace the following FRUs one at a time (do not replace a nondefective FRU):
a. System board
b. LCD unit
42 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
Chapter 5. Configuring RAID
This chapter provides information about storage drive requirements for Redundant Array of Independent
Disks (RAID) levels, and instructions on how to configure RAID for your computer.
An Introduction to RAID
RAID is a technology that provides increased storage functions and reliability through redundancy.
When a group of independent physical storage drives is set up to use RAID technology, they are in a RAID
array. This array distributes data across multiple storage drives, but the array appears to the host computer
as one single storage unit. Creating and using RAID arrays provides high performance, such as the expedited
I/O performance, because several drives can be accessed simultaneously.
RAID drive groups configured according to certain RAID levels also improve data storage reliability and fault
tolerance compared with single-drive storage systems. Data loss resulting from a drive failure can be
prevented by reconstructing missing data from the remaining drives.
Note: For RAID 0, the missing data resulting from a drive failure cannot be reconstructed.
Storage drive requirements for RAID levels
Your computer supports the following internal storage drives:
• 2.5-inch form factor, 7-mm (0.28-inch) height hard disk drive*
• Intel® Optane™ memory*
• M.2 solid-state drive*
* for selected models
Note: Ensure that your computer has two identical storage drives installed (two M.2 NVMe solid-state drives
with the same capacity) for supported RAID levels. If only one drive is installed, or two different types of
drives are installed, the following information does not apply.
Your computer supports the following RAID levels:
• RAID 0: striped disk array
– Consists of two identical storage drives
– Supported strip size: 4 KB, 8 KB, 16 KB, 32 KB, 64 KB, or 128 KB
– Better performance without fault tolerance
– Higher risk of data loss resulting from a member drive failure compared with non-RAID configuration
• RAID 1: mirrored disk array
– Consists of two identical storage drives
– Improved reading performance and 100% redundancy
• RAID 5: block-level striped disk array with distributed parity
– Consist of at least three SATA storage drives
– Supported strip size: 16 KB, 32 KB, 64 KB, or 128 KB
– Better performance and fault tolerance
© Copyright Lenovo 2019 43
Configuring RAID with the Intel RST configuration utility
This topic provides the following instructions to help you configure RAID with the Intel RST configuration
utility:
• How to enter the Intel RST configuration utility
• How to create RAID volumes
• How to delete RAID volumes
• How to reset storage drives to non-RAID
• How to rebuild RAID 1 or RAID 5 volumes
Entering the Intel RST configuration utility
This topic provides instructions on how to enter the Intel RST configuration utility.
Enabling RAID from ThinkPad Setup
If RAID is disabled, you must enable it manually before entering the Intel RST configuration utility.
To enable RAID, do the following:
1. Restart the computer. When the logo screen is displayed, press F1 to start the ThinkPad Setup program.
2. Select Config ➙ Storage ➙ Controller Mode ➙ RST mode and then press Enter.
3. Press F10 to save changes and exit.
Entering the Intel RST configuration utility
To enter the Intel RST configuration utility, do the following:
1. Restart the computer. When the logo screen is displayed, press F1 to start the ThinkPad Setup program.
2. Select Config ➙ Storage ➙ Intel (R) Rapid Storage Technology and then press Enter to open the Intel
(R) Rapid Storage Technology window.
The following options are displayed after you enter the Intel RST configuration utility:
• Create RAID Volume: This option is used to create a RAID volume. If no internal storage drives can be
used, this option is not available.
• RAID Volumes: This option is used to confirm the information of the created RAID volumes.
• Non-RAID Physical Disks: This option is used to confirm the information of all non-RAID drives.
Press the up and down arrow keys to select an option. Press Enter to enter the menu for the selected option.
Press Esc to exit the Intel RST configuration utility.
Creating RAID volumes
This topic provides instructions on how to use the Intel RST configuration utility to create RAID volumes.
Attention: All the existing data stored on the selected drives will be erased while the RAID volume is being
created.
To create a RAID volume, do the following:
1. Enter the Intel RST configuration utility. See “Entering the Intel RST configuration utility” on page 44.
44 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
2. Press the up and down arrow keys to select Create RAID Volume, and then press Enter to open the
CREATE RAID VOLUME window.
3. Press the up and down arrow keys to select and configure the options one by one.
a. Name: You can use the default name or type a preferred name for the RAID volume.
b. RAID Level: You can press Enter to change the RAID to one of the following:
• RAID0 (Stripe)
• RAID1 (Mirror)
• RAID5 (Parity)
c. Select Disks: Press the up and down arrow keys to select a drive, and then press Spacebar or Enter
to add it into a group. An X mark is displayed next to the selected drive.
Note: The drive that cannot be used to create a RAID volume is not selectable.
d. Strip Size: Press the up and down arrow keys to select a strip size, and then press Enter to complete
the configuration.
Note: This option is only available for RAID 0 and RAID 5.
e. Capacity: Customize the capacity of the RAID volume. The default RAID volume is the largest value.
f. Create Volume: Press Enter to finish configurations of the preceding options and create a volume.
Note: The Create Volume option might not be selectable for some reasons, for example, if different
types of drives are selected, the option is not selectable. If it is not selectable, see the message
displayed under Create Volume for reference.
After the RAID volume is created, the Intel (R) Rapid Storage Technology window is displayed, and
the created volume is displayed under RAID Volumes.
4. Press F10 to save changes and exit.
Deleting RAID volumes
This topic provides instructions on how to use the Intel RST configuration utility to delete RAID volumes.
Attention: All the existing data stored on the selected drives will be erased after you delete RAID volumes.
To delete a RAID volume, do the following:
1. Enter the Intel RST configuration utility. See “Entering the Intel RST configuration utility” on page 44.
2. Press the up and down arrow keys to select the volume that you want to delete under RAID Volumes.
Press Enter to open the RAID VOLUME INFO window.
3. Select Delete and press Enter to delete it from the RAID Volumes list.
4. When prompted, select Yes to confirm the deletion of the selected RAID volume.
After you delete the RAID volume, the Intel (R) Rapid Storage Technology window is displayed. Member
drives of the deleted volume are displayed under Non-RAID Physical Disks.
5. Press F10 to save changes and exit.
Resetting storage drives to non-RAID
This topic provides instructions on how to use the Intel RST configuration utility to reset storage drives to
non-RAID.
Attention: All the existing data stored on the selected drive will be erased after you reset it to non-RAID.
Chapter 5.Configuring RAID 45
To reset a storage drive to non-RAID, do the following:
1. Enter the Intel RST configuration utility. See “Entering the Intel RST configuration utility” on page 44.
2. Press the up and down arrow keys to select the volume that you want to reset under RAID Volumes.
Press Enter to open the RAID VOLUME INFO window.
3. Press the up and down arrow keys to select the drive that you want to reset under RAID Member Disks.
Press Enter to open the PHYSICAL DISK INFO window.
4. Select Reset to Non-RAID and press Enter. When prompted, press Yes to confirm the reset action.
After the reset process finishes, the Intel (R) Rapid Storage Technology window is displayed. The reset
drive is listed under Non-RAID Physical Disks, and the volume of the reset drive is still listed under
RAID Volumes, but the status is changed from Normal to Failed or Degraded.
5. Press F10 to save changes and exit.
Rebuilding RAID 1 volumes
If the status of a RAID 1 volume is Failed or Degraded, you can rebuild it through the Intel RST configuration
utility. To rebuild a RAID 1 volume, ensure that at least one member drive of the RAID 1 volume works
correctly. Replace the failed drive with a new one that has the same capacity before you rebuild a RAID 1
volume.
To rebuild a RAID 1 volume, do the following:
1. Enter the Intel RST configuration utility. See “Entering the Intel RST configuration utility” on page 44.
2. Press the up and down arrow keys to select the volume that you want to rebuild under RAID Volumes.
Press Enter to open the RAID VOLUME INFO window.
3. Select Rebuild and press Enter to open the Rebuild Volume window.
4. Select the drive that you want to rebuild and press Enter to initiate the rebuild process.
After you initiate the rebuild process, the Intel (R) Rapid Storage Technology window is displayed. The
RAID 1 volume under rebuilding is displayed under RAID Volumes with a Rebuilding mark.
5. Wait a few minutes. When the rebuild process finishes successfully, the Rebuilding mark is changed to
the Normal mark.
6. Press F10 to save changes and exit.
Rebuilding RAID 5 volumes
If the status of a RAID 5 volume is Failed or Degraded, you can rebuild it through the Intel RST configuration
utility. To rebuild a RAID 5 volume, ensure that at least one member drive of the RAID 5 volume works
correctly. Replace the failed drive with a new one that has the same capacity before you rebuild a RAID 5
volume.
To rebuild a RAID 5 volume, do the following:
1. Enter the Intel RST configuration utility. See “Entering the Intel RST configuration utility” on page 44.
2. Press the up and down arrow keys to select the volume that you want to rebuild under RAID Volumes.
Press Enter to open the RAID VOLUME INFO window.
3. Select Rebuild and press Enter to open the Rebuild Volume window.
4. Select the drive that you want to rebuild and press Enter to initiate the rebuild process.
After you initiate the rebuild process, the Intel (R) Rapid Storage Technology window is displayed. The
RAID 5 volume under rebuilding is displayed under RAID Volumes with a Rebuilding mark.
46 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
48 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
Chapter 6. Special keys
The following table describes the functions of function keys and key combinations.
Table 5. Special keys
Special key Description
+
You can configure the Fn key and function keys in the Keyboard Properties window by doing the
following:
1. Go to Control Panel, and then change the view of Control Panel from Category to Large icons
or Small icons.
2. Click Lenovo - Keyboard Manager and the Keyboard Manager window is displayed.
3. Select the options of your preference.
Press Fn+Esc to switch the key function between the standard F1–F12 function and the special
function printed as an icon on each key. You can change the default function in the Keyboard
Properties window.
Mute or unmute the speakers.
If you mute the sound and turn off your computer, the sound will remain muted when you turn on
your computer again. To turn on the sound, press F1, F2, or F3.
Decrease the speaker volume.
Increase the speaker volume.
Mute or unmute the microphones.
Darken the display.
Brighten the display.
Manage external displays.
Enable or disable the built-in wireless networking features.
Open the Settings window.
Enable or disable the built-in Bluetooth feature.
Open a keyboard setting page.
Invoke the function defined by yourself:
1. Open the Start menu and click Lenovo Vantage.
2. Click Hardware Settings and then click Input.
3. Locate the Keyboard: User-defined Key section and follow the on-screen instructions to
complete the setting.
On this setting page, you can also define different functions for the key combinations with F12, such
as Shift+F12, Alt+F12, or Ctrl+F12.
© Copyright Lenovo 2019 49
Table 5. Special keys (continued)
Special key Description
Open the calculator.
Put your computer to sleep mode.
Open the Snipping Tool program.
Fn+Spacebar Switch between different keyboard backlight statuses if your computer supports keyboard
backlight.
Fn+4 Put the computer into sleep mode. To wake up the computer, press Fn or the power button.
Fn+B Equal the Break key on a conventional external keyboard.
Fn+K Equal the ScrLK or Scroll Lock key on a conventional external keyboard.
Fn+P Equal the Pause key on a conventional external keyboard.
Fn+S Equal the SysRq key on a conventional external keyboard.
Fn+Left arrow
key
Equal the Home key.
Fn+Right arrow
key
Equal the End key.
50 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
Chapter 7. Locations
This chapter introduces the locations of the hardware components on your computer.
Locating computer controls, connectors, and indicators
This topic introduces the locations of the computer controls, connectors, and indicators.
Front view
1 Infrared (IR) LED* 2 Camera with IR function*
3 ThinkShutter* 4 Microphones
5 Camera* 6 Multi-touch screen*
7 Device-access-status indicator 8 Wireless-status indicator
* for selected models
© Copyright Lenovo 2019 51
Base view
1 Power button 2 Numeric keypad
3 Fingerprint reader 4 NFC label*
5 Trackpad with buttons 6 TrackPoint®pointing device
7 Speaker
* for selected models
Left view
1 HDMI™ connector 2 Always On USB 3.1 connector Gen 1
3 USB 3.1 connector Gen 1 4 SD-card slot
5 Smart-card slot*
* for selected models
52 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
Bottom view
1 Emergency-reset hole 2 Keyboard drainage hole
Locating FRUs and CRUs
This topic introduces the following service parts:
• “Major FRUs” on page 55
• “LCD FRUs” on page 57
• “Miscellaneous parts” on page 60
Notes:
• CRU statement for customers:
You can resolve some problems with your product with a replacement part you can install yourself, called a
“Customer Replaceable Unit” or “CRU.” Installation of self-service CRUs is your responsibility. If you intend on
installing the CRU, Lenovo will ship the CRU to you. CRU information and replacement instructions are shipped
with your product and are available from Lenovo at any time upon request. You can find a list of CRUs for your
product in this Hardware Maintenance Manual. An electronic version of this manual can be found at https://
support.lenovo.com. Follow the on-screen instructions to find the manual for your product. You might be required to
return the defective part that is replaced by the CRU. When return is required: (1) return instructions, a prepaid
shipping label, and a container will be included with the replacement CRU; and (2) you might be charged for the
replacement CRU if Lenovo does not receive the defective CRU within thirty (30) days of your receipt of the
replacement CRU. See your Lenovo Limited Warranty documentation for full details.
ThinkPad computers contain the following types of CRUs and FRU:
– Self-service CRUs: Refer to parts that can be installed or replaced easily by customer themselves or by trained
service technicians at an additional cost.
– Optional-service CRUs: Refer to parts that can be installed or replaced by customers with a greater skill level.
Trained service technicians can also provide service to install or replace the parts under the type of warranty
designated for the customer’s machine.
– FRUs: Refer to parts that must be installed or replaced only by trained service technicians. If customers choose
to replace the FRUs by themselves, the product warranty might be affected.
54 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
Table 6. Major FRUs
No. FRU descriptions Self-service CRU Optional-service CRU
1LCD unit No No
2Nano-SIM-card tray* Yes No
3 Keyboard bezel assembly No No
4 Power button board with cable No No
5 Fingerprint reader cable No No
6 Fingerprint reader module No No
7Fingerprint reader bracket No No
8NFC cable* No No
9NFC module* No No
10 NFC antenna* No No
11 Memory module bracket under the keyboard No No
12 Speaker assembly No No
13 System board No No
14 Memory modules under the keyboard No No
15 Memory modules under the bottom cover Yes No
16 Wireless LAN card No No
17 Wireless WAN card* No Yes
18 Thermal pad for M.2 solid-state drive* No Yes
19 M.2 solid-state drive* Yes No
20 Coin-cell battery Yes No
21 Built-in battery No No
22 Bottom cover Yes No
23 Hard disk drive bracket* Yes No
24 Hard disk drive* Yes No
25 Hard disk drive cable* No Yes
26 Base cover assembly No No
27 dc-in cable assembly No No
28 dc-in bracket No No
29 Dummy smart card reader* No No
30 Smart card reader* No No
31 Smart card reader cable* No No
32 Thermal fan assembly No No
33 Chassis assembly No No
34 Hinge caps No No
56 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
Table 6. Major FRUs (continued)
No. FRU descriptions Self-service CRU Optional-service CRU
35 Keyboard No Yes
36 Trackpad button board with cable No No
37 Trackpad cable No No
aPower cord Yes No
b ac power adapter Yes No
cMiscellaneous parts (see “Miscellaneous parts” on
page 60)
No No
d Lenovo factory recovery USB key * Yes No
* for selected models
Chapter 7.Locations 57
Table 7. LCD FRUs
No. FRU descriptions Self-service CRU Optional-service CRU
1LCD bezel assembly No No
2 Microphone board* No No
3Infrared camera/mic combo board* No No
4Conventional camera/mic combo board* No No
5Infrared camera/LED cable assembly* No No
6Conventional camera/LED cable assembly* No No
7LCD rear cover assembly No No
8 Antenna kit No No
9 LED card No No
10 Hinge assembly No No
58 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
LCD FRUs
For models without touch function:
Table 7. LCD FRUs (continued)
No. FRU descriptions Self-service CRU Optional-service CRU
11 LCD cable No No
12 LCD panel No No
* for selected models
For models with touch function:
Table 8. LCD FRUs
No. FRU descriptions Self-service CRU Optional-service CRU
1LCD panel assembly No No
2LCD panel bracket No No
3Infrared camera/mic combo board No No
Chapter 7.Locations 59
Table 8. LCD FRUs (continued)
No. FRU descriptions Self-service CRU Optional-service CRU
4Infrared camera/LED cable assembly No No
5LCD rear cover assembly No No
6 Antenna kit No No
7LED card No No
8 Hinge assembly No No
9LCD cable No No
10 Touch control board No No
11 LCD strip bezel No No
Miscellaneous parts
Table 9. Miscellaneous parts
FRU descriptions Self-service CRU Optional-service CRU
Screw kit
• M1.98 × L3, black (16)
• M2 × L2.5, silver (4)
• M2 × L3, black (2)
• M2.5 × L4, silver (6)
• M2.5 × L5, black (8)
• M2.45 × L8, black (4)
• M2 × L12, black (11)
No No
System kit
• Mylar for hinge
• Mylar for keyboard
No No
Wireless WAN card miscellaneous kit No No
Wireless LAN card miscellaneous kit No No
Label kit No No
Connector and cable guide
This section provides information for Lenovo authorized service technicians to help identify connectors and
cables for replacement purpose. To view each FRU and the exploded illustration of the computer, see “Major
FRUs” on page 55 and “LCD FRUs” on page 57.
Note: Depending on your model, some connectors or cables might not be available.
60 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
For models with three M.2 solid- state-drive slots
No. Connector/feature Internal cable required Cable connection
1Thunderbolt™ 3 connector
(external)
No Connect a USB-C compatible device or a
Thunderbolt 3 compatible device to this
connector.
2Thunderbolt™ 3 connector
(external)
No Connect a USB-C compatible device or a
Thunderbolt 3 compatible device to this
connector.
3Ethernet connector (external) No Connect the computer to a LAN through
this connector.
4Speaker connector (internal) Speaker assembly cable The speaker assembly comes with cable.
Connect the cable to this connector.
5Memory module slot (internal) No Insert the memory module into this slot.
6Memory module slot (internal) No Insert the memory module into this slot.
7Camera connector (internal) Camera/LED assembly
cable
Connect one end of the cable to the
camera/mic combo board and the other
end to this connector.
Chapter 7.Locations 61
No. Connector/feature Internal cable required Cable connection
8Thermal fan assembly connector
(internal)
Thermal fan assembly
cable
The thermal fan assembly comes with
cable. Connect the cable to this connector.
9Power-button-card connector
(internal)
Power-button-card cable The power button card comes with cable.
Connect the power-button-card cable to
this connector.
10 Nano-SIM-card slot (external) No If the computer supports wireless WAN,
insert a nano-SIM card into this slot to
establish wireless-WAN connection.
11 USB-C connector (external) No Connect USB-C compatible devices or a
USB-C power adapter to this connector.
12 Audio connector (external) No Connect headphones or a headset with 3.5-
mm (0.14-inch) 4-pole plug to this
connector.
13 Fingerprint reader connector
(internal)
Fingerprint reader cable Connect one end to the fingerprint reader
card and the other end to this connector.
14 NFC module connector (internal) NFC module cable Connect one end to the NFC module and
the other end to this connector.
15 Trackpad connector (internal) Trackpad cable Connect one end to the trackpad and the
other end to this connector.
16 SD card slot (external) No Insert the SD card into this slot.
17 USB 3.1 connector Gen 1
(external)
No Connect USB-compatible devices to this
connector.
18 Always On USB 3.1 connector
Gen 1 (external)
No Connect USB-compatible devices to this
connector.
19 HDMI connector (external) No Connect a compatible digital audio device
or video monitor to this connector.
20 Smart-card connector (internal) Smart card cable Connect one end to the smart card reader
and the other end to this connector.
21
22
Keyboard connectors (internal) Keyboard assembly with
cable
The keyboard assembly comes with the
cables. Connect the cables to these
connectors.
23 Thermal fan assembly connector
(internal)
Thermal fan assembly
cable
The thermal fan assembly comes with
cable. Connect the cable to this connector.
24 LCD connector (internal) LCD cable Connect one end of the LCD cable to the
LCD panel and the other end to this
connector.
25 Coin-cell battery connector
(internal)
Coin-cell battery cable The coin-cell battery comes with cable.
Connect the cable to this connector.
26 ac power LED connector (internal) ac power LED connector
cable
The ac power card comes with cable.
Connect the cable to this connector.
27 dc-in connector (external) dc-in connector cable Connect the dc-in connector cable to this
connector.
28 Solid-state drive slots (internal) No Insert the solid-state drive into this slot.
29 Memory module slot (internal) No Insert the memory module into this slot.
30 Built-in battery connector (internal) built-in battery cable The battery comes with the cable. Connect
the cable to this connector.
62 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
No. Connector/feature Internal cable required Cable connection
31 WWAN connector (internal) No Insert the wireless-WAN card into this slot.
32 WLAN connector (internal) No Insert the wireless-LAN card into this slot.
For models with two M.2 solid- state-drive slots
No. Connector/feature Internal cable required Cable connection
1Thunderbolt™ 3 connector
(external)
No Connect a USB-C compatible device or a
Thunderbolt 3 compatible device to this
connector.
2Thunderbolt™ 3 connector
(external)
No Connect a USB-C compatible device or a
Thunderbolt 3 compatible device to this
connector.
3Ethernet connector (external) No Connect the computer to a LAN through
this connector.
4Speaker connector (internal) Speaker assembly cable The speaker assembly comes with cable.
Connect the cable to this connector.
5Memory module slot (internal) No Insert the memory module into this slot.
Chapter 7.Locations 63
No. Connector/feature Internal cable required Cable connection
6Memory module slot (internal) No Insert the memory module into this slot.
7Camera connector (internal) Camera/LED assembly
cable
Connect one end of the cable to the
camera/mic combo board and the other
end to this connector.
8Thermal fan assembly connector
(internal)
Thermal fan assembly
cable
The thermal fan assembly comes with
cable. Connect the cable to this connector.
9Power-button-card connector
(internal)
Power-button-card cable The power button card comes with cable.
Connect the power-button-card cable to
this connector.
10 Nano-SIM-card slot (external) No If the computer supports wireless WAN,
insert a nano-SIM card into this slot to
establish wireless-WAN connection.
11 USB-C connector (external) No Connect USB-C compatible devices or a
USB-C power adapter to this connector.
12 Audio connector (external) No Connect headphones or a headset with 3.5-
mm (0.14-inch) 4-pole plug to this
connector.
13 Fingerprint reader connector
(internal)
Fingerprint reader cable Connect one end to the fingerprint reader
card and the other end to this connector.
14 NFC module connector (internal) NFC module cable Connect one end to the NFC module and
the other end to this connector.
15 Trackpad connector (internal) Trackpad cable Connect one end to the trackpad and the
other end to this connector.
16 SD card slot (external) No Insert the SD card into this slot.
17 USB 3.1 connector Gen 1
(external)
No Connect USB-compatible devices to this
connector.
18 Always On USB 3.1 connector
Gen 1 (external)
No Connect USB-compatible devices to this
connector.
19 HDMI connector (external) No Connect a compatible digital audio device
or video monitor to this connector.
20 Smart-card connector (internal) Smart card cable Connect one end to the smart card reader
and the other end to this connector.
21
22
Keyboard connectors (internal) Keyboard assembly with
cable
The keyboard assembly comes with the
cables. Connect the cables to these
connectors.
23 Thermal fan assembly connector
(internal)
Thermal fan assembly
cable
The thermal fan assembly comes with
cable. Connect the cable to this connector.
24 LCD connector (internal) LCD cable Connect one end of the LCD cable to the
LCD panel and the other end to this
connector.
25 Coin-cell battery connector
(internal)
Coin-cell battery cable The coin-cell battery comes with cable.
Connect the cable to this connector.
26 ac power LED connector (internal) ac power LED connector
cable
The ac power card comes with cable.
Connect the cable to this connector.
27 dc-in connector (external) dc-in connector cable Connect the dc-in connector cable to this
connector.
64 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
No. Connector/feature Internal cable required Cable connection
28 Solid-state drive slots (internal) No Insert the solid-state drive into this slot.
29 HDD cable connector (internal) HDD cable Connect the HDD cable to this connector.
30 Memory module slot (internal) No Insert the memory module into this slot.
31 Built-in battery connector (internal) built-in battery cable The battery comes with the cable. Connect
the cable to this connector.
32 WWAN connector (internal) No Insert the wireless-WAN card into this slot.
33 WLAN connector (internal) No Insert the wireless-LAN card into this slot.
Looking up FRU information
For detailed FRU information, including part numbers, descriptions, and substitution part numbers, go to:
https://support.lenovo.com/partslookup
Chapter 7.Locations 65
66 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
Chapter 8. FRU replacement notices
This chapter presents notices related to removing and replacing parts. Read this chapter carefully before
replacing any FRU.
CRU statement for customers:
You can resolve some problems with your product with a replacement part you can install yourself, called a
“Customer Replaceable Unit” or “CRU.” Some CRUs are designated as self-service CRUs and others are
designated as optional-service CRUs. Installation of self-service CRUs is your responsibility. For optional-
service CRUs, you can either install the CRU yourself or you can request that a Service Provider install the
CRU according to the warranty service for your product. If you intend on installing the CRU, Lenovo will ship
the CRU to you. CRU information and replacement instructions are shipped with your product and are
available from Lenovo at any time upon request. You can find a list of CRUs for your product in this Hardware
Maintenance Manual. An electronic version of this manual can be found at https://support.lenovo.com. Click
Documentation and then follow the on-screen instructions to find the manual for your product. You might be
required to return the defective CRU. When return is required: (1) return instructions, a prepaid shipping label,
and a container will be included with the replacement CRU; and (2) you might be charged for the
replacement CRU if Lenovo does not receive the defective CRU within thirty (30) days of your receipt of the
replacement CRU. See your Lenovo Limited Warranty documentation for full details.
Service tool kit
Ensure that the following service tool kit is prepared before you service a ThinkPad notebook computer.
No. Tool name Tool type
1 Phillips-head screwdriver Common tool
2 Torx-head screwdriver Common tool
3Conductive tweezers Common tool
4 Hexagonal socket Common tool
5Silicone grease Consumable tool
6 Polyamide tape Consumable tool
7 Mylar tape Consumable tool
8 Eraser Consumable tool
9 Electrical tape Consumable tool
10 Double-sided tape Consumable tool
11 Conductive tape Consumable tool
Note: The silicone grease can be applied to the surfaces of the microprocessor and heatsink to eliminate air
gaps. The hexagonal socket is used to pick up the antenna connectors.
Screw notices
Loose screws can cause a reliability problem. In the ThinkPad notebook computer, this problem is
addressed with special nylon-coated screws that have the following characteristics:
• They maintain tight connections.
© Copyright Lenovo 2019 67
• They do not easily come loose, even with shock or vibration.
• They are harder to tighten.
Do the following when you service this machine:
• Keep the screw kit in your tool bag. For the part number of the screw kit, go to https://support.lenovo.com/
partslookup.
• It is recommended to use new screws.
• It is recommended to use each screw only once.
Tighten screws as follows:
• Plastic to plastic
Turn an additional 90 degrees after the screw head touches the surface of the plastic part.
• Logic card to plastic
Turn an additional 180 degrees after the screw head touches the surface of the logic card.
Notes:
• Ensure that you use the correct screw. It is recommended to use new screws for replacements. If you
have a torque screwdriver, tighten all screws firmly to the torque specified in the screw information table
for each step.
• Ensure that torque screwdrivers are calibrated correctly following country specifications.
Retaining serial numbers
This section includes the following descriptions:
• “Restoring the serial number of the system unit” on page 68
• “Retaining the UUID” on page 69
Restoring the serial number of the system unit
When the computer was manufactured, the EEPROM on the system board was loaded with the serial
numbers of the system and all major components. These numbers need to remain the same throughout the
life of the computer.
If you replace the system board, you must restore the serial number of the system unit to its original value.
The serial number of the system unit is written on the label attached to the bottom of the computer.
68 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
If you can not find the serial number of the system unit on the bottom of the computer, try the following
method to get the number:
Note: Before you perform the operation, ensure that the UEFI/Legacy setting within the Startup menu in the
ThinkPad Setup program is set to UEFI Only.
1. Connect a USB memory key to the computer.
2. Go to https://www.lenovo.com/maintenanceutilities and follow the instructions on the screen to create a
Maintenance Key.
Note: Only an authorized Lenovo service technician can access the above Web site.
3. Restart the computer.
4. When the logo is displayed, press Esc. The ThinkPad Config Information Update Utility interface is
displayed.
5. Type 1 under Enter the action desired, then press Enter. The ThinkPad Serial Number Update Utility for
Asset ID screen is displayed.
6. Type 2 under Enter the action desired, then press Enter. The serial number of each device in your
computer is displayed; the serial number of the system unit is listed as follow:
20- Serial number
7. Record the serial number of the system unit.
After you replace the system board, do the following to restore the serial number of the system unit:
1. Connect the Maintenance Key to the computer.
2. When the logo is displayed, press Esc. The ThinkPad Config Information Update Utility interface is
displayed.
3. Type 1 under Enter the action desired, then press Enter. The ThinkPad Serial Number Update Utility for
Asset ID screen is displayed.
4. Type 1 under Enter the action desired, then press Enter. Then follow the instructions on the screen to
restore the serial number of the system unit.
Retaining the UUID
The Universally Unique Identifier (UUID) is a 128-bit number uniquely assigned to your computer at
production and stored in the EEPROM of your system board.
The algorithm that generates the number is designed to provide unique IDs until the year A.D. 3400. No two
computers in the world have the same number.
When you replace the system board, perform the following steps to create a new UUID for the system board
if the system board does not have a UUID:
Note: Before you perform the operation, ensure that the UEFI/Legacy setting within the Startup menu in the
ThinkPad Setup program is set to UEFI Only.
1. Connect a USB memory key to the computer.
2. Go to https://www.lenovo.com/maintenanceutilities and follow the instructions on the screen to create a
Maintenance Key.
Note: Only an authorized Lenovo service technician can access the above Web site.
3. Restart the computer.
4. When the logo screen is displayed, press Esc. The ThinkPad Config Information Update Utility interface
is displayed.
5. Type 2 under Enter the action desired, then press Enter. The Auto UUID generation utility interface is
displayed.
Chapter 8.FRU replacement notices 69
6. Type y under Change UUID. OK? [Y/N], then press Enter. A new UUID is created and written. If a valid
UUID already exists, it is not overwritten.
Reading or writing the ECA information
Information on Engineering Change Announcements (ECA) is stored in the EEPROM of the system board.
The electronic storage of this information simplifies the procedure to check if the ECA has been previously
applied to a machine. The machine does not need to be disassembled to check for the ECA application.
To check what ECAs have been previously applied to the machine, use the ECA Information Read/Write
function on the LENOVO ThinkPad Hardware Maintenance Diskette or Maintenance Key.
1. Insert the latest version of LENOVO ThinkPad Hardware Maintenance Diskette or Maintenance Key, and
then restart the computer.
2. From the main menu, select 6. Set ECA Information.
3. To read the ECA information, select 2. Read ECA/rework number from EEPROM and follow the
instructions on the screen; To read box build date, select 5. Read box build date from EEPROM, and
follow the instructions on the screen.
After an ECA has been applied to the machine, the EEPROM must be updated to reflect the ECA's
application. Use the latest version of LENOVO ThinkPad Hardware Maintenance Diskette or Maintenance
Key to update the EEPROM.
Note: Only the ECA number is stored in the EEPROM. The machine type of the ECA is assumed to be the
same as the machine type of the machine that had the ECA applied to it.
1. Insert the latest version of LENOVO ThinkPad Hardware Maintenance Diskette or Maintenance Key, and
then restart the computer.
2. From the main menu, select 6. Set ECA Information.
3. To write the ECA information, select 1. Write ECA/rework number from EEPROM, and follow the
instruction; To write box build date, select 4. Write box build date from EEPROM, and follow the
instruction on the screen.
If the system board is being replaced, try to read the ECA information from the old system board and transfer
the information to the new system. If the system board is inoperable, this will not be possible.
70 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
Chapter 9. Removing or replacing a FRU
This chapter provides instructions on how to remove or replace a FRU.
CRU statement for customers:
You can resolve some problems with your product with a replacement part you can install yourself, called a
“Customer Replaceable Unit” or “CRU.” Some CRUs are designated as self-service CRUs and others are
designated as optional-service CRUs. Installation of self-service CRUs is your responsibility. For optional-
service CRUs, you can either install the CRU yourself or you can request that a Service Provider install the
CRU according to the warranty service for your product. If you intend on installing the CRU, Lenovo will ship
the CRU to you. CRU information and replacement instructions are shipped with your product and are
available from Lenovo at any time upon request. You can find a list of CRUs for your product in this Hardware
Maintenance Manual. An electronic version of this manual is available for downloading at https://
support.lenovo.com. Follow the on-screen instructions to find the manual for your product. You might be
required to return the defective CRU. When return is required: (1) return instructions, a prepaid shipping label,
and a container will be included with the replacement CRU; and (2) you might be charged for the
replacement CRU if Lenovo does not receive the defective part within thirty (30) days of your receipt of the
replacement CRU. See your Lenovo Limited Warranty documentation for full details.
General guidelines
When removing or replacing a FRU, be sure to observe the following general guidelines:
1. Do not try to service any computer unless you have been trained and certified. An untrained person runs
the risk of damaging parts.
2. Before replacing any FRU, review Chapter 8 “FRU replacement notices” on page 67.
3. Begin by removing any FRUs that have to be removed before replacing the failing FRU. Any such FRUs
are listed at the beginning of each FRU replacement section. Remove them in the order in which they are
listed.
4. Follow the correct sequence in the steps for removing a FRU, as given in the illustrations by the numbers
in square callouts.
5. When turning a screw, turn it in the direction as given by the arrow in the illustration.
6. When removing a FRU, move it in the direction as given by the arrow in the illustration.
7. To put the new FRU in place, reverse the removal procedure and follow any notes that pertain to
replacement.
8. When replacing a FRU, use the correct screws as shown in the replacement procedures.
DANGER
Before removing any FRU, turn off the computer, unplug all power cords from electrical outlets,
remove the battery pack, and then disconnect any interconnecting cables.
Attention:
• After replacing a FRU, do not turn on the computer until you have made sure that all screws, springs, and
other small parts are in place and none are loose inside the computer. Verify this by shaking the computer
gently and listening for rattling sounds. Metallic parts or metal flakes can cause electrical short circuits.
© Copyright Lenovo 2019 71
• The system board is sensitive to, and can be damaged by, electrostatic discharge (ESD). Before touching
it, establish personal grounding by touching a ground point with one hand or by using an electrostatic
discharge strap.
Before servicing the computer
Carefully read this topic before servicing the computer.
Disable the built-in battery
Before replacing any FRU/CRU, ensure that you disable the built-in battery.
To disable Fast Startup, do the following:
1. Go to Control Panel, and then change the view of Control Panel from Category to Large icons or Small
icons.
2. Click Power Options, and then click Choose what the power buttons do on the left pane.
3. Click Change settings that are currently unavailable at the top.
4. If prompted by User Account Control (UAC), click Yes.
5. Clear the Turn on fast startup check box, and then click Save changes.
To disable the built-in battery, do the following:
1. Restart your computer. When the logo screen is displayed, immediately press F1 to enter ThinkPad
Setup.
2. Select Config ➙ Power. The Power submenu is displayed.
3. Select Disable built-in battery and press Enter.
4. Select Yes in the Setup Confirmation window. The built-in battery is disabled and the computer turns off
automatically. Wait three to five minutes to let the computer cool.
Removing the nano-SIM card
If the computer has a nano-SIM card installed, you need to remove the nano-SIM card before you start the
servicing.
After you finish the servicing, ensure that you install the nano-SIM card back into the slot firmly.
Removing a major FRU
This section provides instructions on how to remove a major FRU.
72 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
1010 Bottom cover
Removal steps of the bottom cover
1020 Storage drive
For access, remove these FRUs:
• “1010 Bottom cover” on page 73
Attention:
• Do not drop the drive or apply any physical shock to it. The drive is sensitive to physical shock. Improper
handling can cause damage and permanent loss of data.
• Before removing the drive, have the user make a backup copy of all the information on it if possible.
• Never remove the drive while the system is operating or in suspend mode.
Removal steps of the Hard disk drive, drive cable and drive bracket
Chapter 9.Removing or replacing a FRU 73
Removal steps of the M.2 solid-state drive and thermal pad (for models with two M.2 solid- state-drive
slots)
For computer models that support the Intel Optane technology, disable the Intel Optane memory before
removing it. To disable the Intel Optane memory, do the following:
1. Restart the computer. When the logo screen is displayed, press F1.
Note: If a supervisor password has been set, enter the correct password when prompted. You also can
press Enter to skip the password prompt and enter the BIOS menu. However, you cannot change the
system configurations that are protected by the supervisor password.
2. Select Config ➙ Storage ➙ Intel (R) Rapid Storage Technology ➙ Intel Optane ➙ Disable.
3. Select to preserve user data and select Yes to confirm your operation.
4. Select Disable and wait for the process to complete.
Note: The disabling process may take from a couple of minutes to hours. Do not restart the computer
until the process is completed.
5. Press F10 to save changes and exit.
74 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
When installing: If your computer is installed with only one M.2 solid-state drive, ensure that the M.2 solid-
state drive is installed into slot 0.
0
Removal steps of M.2 solid-state drive and thermal pad (for models with three M.2 solid- state-drive
slots)
For computer models that support the Intel Optane technology, disable the Intel Optane memory before
removing it. To disable the Intel Optane memory, do the following:
1. Restart the computer. When the logo screen is displayed, press F1.
Note: If a supervisor password has been set, enter the correct password when prompted. You also can
press Enter to skip the password prompt and enter the BIOS menu. However, you cannot change the
system configurations that are protected by the supervisor password.
2. Select Config ➙ Storage ➙ Intel (R) Rapid Storage Technology ➙ Intel Optane ➙ Disable.
3. Select to preserve user data and select Yes to confirm your operation.
4. Select Disable and wait for the process to complete.
Note: The disabling process may take from a couple of minutes to hours. Do not restart the computer
until the process is completed.
Chapter 9.Removing or replacing a FRU 75
5. Press F10 to save changes and exit.
When installing:
• If your computer is installed with only one M.2 solid-state drive, ensure that the M.2 solid-state drive is
installed into slot 0.
• If your computer is installed with only two M.2 solid-state drives, ensure that two M.2 solid-state drives
are installed into slot 0 and 1.
0
Step Screw (quantity) Color Torque
2M2 × 3 mm, flat-head, nylon-coated (1) Black 0.181 Nm
(1.85 kgf-cm)
1030 Memory module under the bottom cover
For access, remove these FRUs:
• “1010 Bottom cover” on page 73
76 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
Removal steps of the memory module under the bottom cover
When installing:
• If your computer is installed with only one memory module, ensure that the memory module is installed
into the memory slot next to the built-in battery.
• Ensure that the memory module is firmly installed in the slot and does not move easily.
1040 Coin-cell battery
For access, remove these FRUs:
• “1010 Bottom cover” on page 73
DANGER
Use only the authorized battery specified for your computer. Any other battery could ignite or
explode.
Chapter 9.Removing or replacing a FRU 77
Removal steps of the coin-cell battery
When installing:
Ensure that the coin-cell battery connector is attached firmly.
1050 Keyboard
Removal steps of the keyboard
Notes:
• Depending on the model, your computer might look different from the illustrations in this topic.
• If your new keyboard is not shipped with the special tool shown in the below procedure, you might need
to use alternative tools to remove it.
a b
78 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
1070 Wireless LAN card
For access, remove these FRUs:
• “1010 Bottom cover” on page 73
Removal steps of the wireless LAN card
Step Screw (quantity) Color Torque
2M2 × 3 mm, flat-head, nylon-coated (1) Black 0.181 Nm
(1.85 kgf-cm)
When installing:
Plug the gray cable into the main connector on the card; and plug the black cable into the auxiliary connector
on the card.
1080 Wireless WAN card
For access, remove these FRUs:
• “1010 Bottom cover” on page 73
Chapter 9.Removing or replacing a FRU 81
Removal steps of the wireless WAN card
Step Screw (quantity) Color Torque
3M2 × 3 mm, flat-head, nylon-coated (1) Black 0.181 Nm
(1.85 kgf-cm)
When installing:
Plug the orange cable into the main connector on the card; and plug the blue cable into the auxiliary
connector on the card.
1090 Built-in battery
For access, remove these FRUs:
• “1010 Bottom cover” on page 73
Removal steps of the built-in battery
82 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
Step Screw (quantity) Color Torque
2M2 × 12 mm flat-head coated (3) Black 0.294 Nm
(3.0 kgf-cm)
1110 Keyboard bezel assembly
For access, remove these FRUs:
• “1010 Bottom cover” on page 73
• “1090 Built-in battery” on page 82
• “1050 Keyboard” on page 78
Removal steps of keyboard bezel assembly
Step Screw (quantity) Color Torque
1M2.5 × 5 mm flat-head coated (5) Black 0.294 Nm
(3.0 kgf-cm)
2M2 × 3 mm flat-head coated (1) Black 0.294 Nm
(3.0 kgf-cm)
3M2 × 12 mm flat-head coated (3) Black 0.294 Nm
(3.0 kgf-cm)
Chapter 9.Removing or replacing a FRU 83
Step Screw (quantity) Color Torque
4M2 × 12 mm flat-head coated (1) Black 0.294 Nm
(3.0 kgf-cm)
When installing: Ensure that all the latches are well assembled and there is no abnormal gap.
1120 NFC module, cable and antenna
For access, remove these FRUs in order:
• “1010 Bottom cover” on page 73
• “1090 Built-in battery” on page 82
• “1050 Keyboard” on page 78
• “1110 Keyboard bezel assembly” on page 83
84 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
Removal steps of the NFC module, cable and antenna
When installing:
Ensure that the connector is attached firmly.
1130 Fingerprint reader cable, bracket and board
For access, remove these FRUs in order:
• “1010 Bottom cover” on page 73
• “1090 Built-in battery” on page 82
• “1050 Keyboard” on page 78
• “1110 Keyboard bezel assembly” on page 83
Chapter 9.Removing or replacing a FRU 85
Removal steps of the fingerprint reader cable, bracket and board
When installing:
Ensure that the connector is attached firmly.
1140 trackpad cable and trackpad buttons with cable
For access, remove these FRUs in order:
• “1010 Bottom cover” on page 73
• “1090 Built-in battery” on page 82
• “1050 Keyboard” on page 78
• “1110 Keyboard bezel assembly” on page 83
86 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
Removal steps of the trackpad cable
When installing:
Ensure that the connector is attached firmly.
Removal steps of the trackpad buttons with cable
Step Screw (quantity) Color Torque
3M2 × 3 mm, flat-head, nylon-coated (2) Black 0.143 Nm
(1.4 kgf-cm)
1150 Power button board with cable
For access, remove these FRUs in order:
• “1010 Bottom cover” on page 73
• “1090 Built-in battery” on page 82
• “1050 Keyboard” on page 78
• “1110 Keyboard bezel assembly” on page 83
Chapter 9.Removing or replacing a FRU 87
Removal steps of the power button board with cable
Step Screw (quantity) Color Torque
2M2 × 3 mm, flat-head, nylon-coated (1) Black 0.143 Nm
(1.4 kgf-cm)
When installing:
Ensure that the connector is attached firmly.
1160 Hinge caps
For access, remove these FRUs:
• “1010 Bottom cover” on page 73
• “1090 Built-in battery” on page 82
• “1050 Keyboard” on page 78
• “1110 Keyboard bezel assembly” on page 83
Removal steps of the hinge caps
88 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
Step Screw (quantity) Color Torque
1M 2.5 × 3 mm, flat-head, nylon-coated (2) Black 0.294 Nm
(3.0 kgf-cm)
1170 LCD unit
For access, remove these FRUs:
• “1010 Bottom cover” on page 73
• “1090 Built-in battery” on page 82
• “1050 Keyboard” on page 78
• “1110 Keyboard bezel assembly” on page 83
• “1160 Hinge caps” on page 88
Removal steps of the LCD unit
Chapter 9.Removing or replacing a FRU 89
Step Screw (quantity) Color Torque
2M2.5 × 8 mm, flat-head, nylon-coated (4) Black 0.294 Nm
(3.0 kgf-cm)
90 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
Step Screw (quantity) Color Torque
8M2 × 12 mm, flat-head, nylon-coated (2) Black 0.181 Nm
(1.85 kgf-cm)
When installing:
Ensure that you route the cables firmly and tape up in the proper positions.
Attention: When you route the cables, ensure that they are not subject to any tension. Tension could cause
the cables to be damaged by the cable guides, or a wire to be broken.
1180 Smart card reader and smart card reader cable
For access, remove these FRUs:
• “1010 Bottom cover” on page 73
• “1050 Keyboard” on page 78
• “1090 Built-in battery” on page 82
• “1110 Keyboard bezel assembly” on page 83
Removal steps of the smart card reader and smart card reader cable
Chapter 9.Removing or replacing a FRU 91
Step Screw (quantity) Color Torque
3M2 × 3 mm, flat-head, nylon-coated (2) Black 0.181 Nm
(1.85 kgf-cm)
1190 Chassis assembly
For access, remove these FRUs in order:
• “1010 Bottom cover” on page 73
• “1020 Storage drive” on page 73
• “1050 Keyboard” on page 78
• “1090 Built-in battery” on page 82
• “1110 Keyboard bezel assembly” on page 83
• “1160 Hinge caps” on page 88
• “1170 LCD unit” on page 89
• “1180 Smart card reader and smart card reader cable” on page 91
Removal steps of the chassis assembly
92 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
Step Screw (quantity) Color Torque
3M2 × 12 mm, flat-head, nylon-coated (2) Black 0.294 Nm
(3.0 kgf-cm)
4M2.5 × 5 mm, flat-head, nylon-coated (3) Black 0.181 Nm
(1.85 kgf-cm)
1210 Memory module under the keyboard
For access, remove these FRUs in order:
• “1010 Bottom cover” on page 73
• “1020 Storage drive” on page 73
• “1050 Keyboard” on page 78
• “1060 Memory module bracket under the keyboard” on page 80
• “1090 Built-in battery” on page 82
• “1110 Keyboard bezel assembly” on page 83
• “1160 Hinge caps” on page 88
• “1170 LCD unit” on page 89
• “1190 Chassis assembly” on page 92
Removal steps of the memory module under the keyboard
When installing:
Chapter 9.Removing or replacing a FRU 93
Ensure that the memory module is firmly installed in the slot and does not move easily.
1220 Speaker assembly
For access, remove these FRUs:
• “1010 Bottom cover” on page 73
• “1090 Built-in battery” on page 82
• “1020 Storage drive” on page 73
• “1050 Keyboard” on page 78
• “1110 Keyboard bezel assembly” on page 83
• “1160 Hinge caps” on page 88
• “1170 LCD unit” on page 89
• “1190 Chassis assembly” on page 92
Removal steps of the speaker assembly
Step Screw (quantity) Color Torque
1M2 × 3 mm, flat-head, nylon-coated (2) Black 0.181 Nm
(1.85 kgf-cm)
1230 Thermal fan assembly
For access, remove these FRUs:
• “1010 Bottom cover” on page 73
• “1090 Built-in battery” on page 82
• “1020 Storage drive” on page 73
• “1050 Keyboard” on page 78
• “1110 Keyboard bezel assembly” on page 83
• “1160 Hinge caps” on page 88
• “1170 LCD unit” on page 89
• “1190 Chassis assembly” on page 92
94 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
Removal steps of the thermal fan assembly
2f 2d 2g 2a
2e
2c
2h
2b
When installing:
• Ensure that the connector is attached firmly.
• Do not press the top of the fan cover and the fan hub.
• Before you attach the fan assembly to the computer, apply thermal grease, at an amount of 0.2 grams, on
the parts marked a and b as shown in the following illustrations. Either too much or too less application
of grease can cause a thermal problem due to imperfect contact with a component.
Chapter 9.Removing or replacing a FRU 95
1240 System board
Important notices for handling the system board:
When handling the system board, read the following:
• The system board has an accelerometer, which can be broken when several thousands of G-forces are
applied.
Note: Dropping a system board from a height of as little as six inches so that it falls flat on a hard bench
can subject the accelerometer to as much as 6000 G's of shock.
• Be careful not to drop the system board on a bench top that has a hard surface, such as metal, wood, or
composite.
• Avoid rough handling of any kind.
• At every point in the process, be sure not to drop or stack the system board.
• If you put a system board down, be sure to put it only on a padded surface such as an ESD mat or a
corrugated conductive material.
For access, remove these FRUs in order:
• “1010 Bottom cover” on page 73
• “1020 Storage drive” on page 73
• “1030 Memory module under the bottom cover” on page 76
• “1040 Coin-cell battery” on page 77
• “1050 Keyboard” on page 78
• “1060 Memory module bracket under the keyboard” on page 80
• “1070 Wireless LAN card” on page 81
• “1080 Wireless WAN card” on page 81
• “1090 Built-in battery” on page 82
• “1110 Keyboard bezel assembly” on page 83
• “1160 Hinge caps” on page 88
• “1170 LCD unit” on page 89
• “1180 Smart card reader and smart card reader cable” on page 91
• “1190 Chassis assembly” on page 92
• “1210 Memory module under the keyboard” on page 93
• “1220 Speaker assembly” on page 94
• “1230 Thermal fan assembly” on page 94
The following components soldered on the top side of the system board are extremely sensitive. When you
service the system board, avoid any kind of rough handling.
a Graphic Processing Unit (GPU)
b Central Processing Unit (CPU)
c Platform Controller Hub (PCH)
d Accelerometer chip for the hard disk drive Active Protection System ® (APS)
96 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
Step Screw (quantity) Color Torque
3M2 × 3 mm, flat-head, nylon-coated (3) Black 0.181 Nm
(1.85 kgf-cm)
1250 dc-in bracket, dc-in cable assembly, and base cover assembly
The base cover assembly will stand out after you remove these FRUs in order:
• “1010 Bottom cover” on page 73
• “1020 Storage drive” on page 73
• “1030 Memory module under the bottom cover” on page 76
• “1040 Coin-cell battery” on page 77
• “1050 Keyboard” on page 78
• “1060 Memory module bracket under the keyboard” on page 80
• “1070 Wireless LAN card” on page 81
• “1080 Wireless WAN card” on page 81
• “1090 Built-in battery” on page 82
• “1110 Keyboard bezel assembly” on page 83
• “1160 Hinge caps” on page 88
• “1170 LCD unit” on page 89
• “1180 Smart card reader and smart card reader cable” on page 91
• “1190 Chassis assembly” on page 92
• “1210 Memory module under the keyboard” on page 93
• “1220 Speaker assembly” on page 94
• “1230 Thermal fan assembly” on page 94
• “1240 System board” on page 96
98 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
Removal steps of the dc-in bracket, dc-in cable assembly, and base cover assembly
Step Screw (quantity) Color Torque
1M2 × 3 mm, flat-head, nylon-coated (1) Black 0.181 Nm
(1.85 kgf-cm)
Label locations on the base cover assembly
The following illustration shows the location of each label.
1 India GEO label 2 Korea/CHINA GEO label
3 TW GEO label 4 CECP label
5 Serial number label 6 IMEI label
7 Win10 COA label 8 Genuine Microsoft label (GML)
Chapter 9.Removing or replacing a FRU 99
9 Asset tag label 10 Country label
11 TAA label
Removing an LCD FRU for non-touch models
This section provides instructions on how to remove an LCD FRU for models without touch feature.
2010 LCD bezel assembly
For access, remove this FRU:
• “1170 LCD unit” on page 89
Removal steps of the LCD bezel assembly
When installing:
Ensure that all the latches are attached firmly.
2020 LED card
For access, remove these FRUs in order:
• “1170 LCD unit” on page 89
• “2010 LCD bezel assembly” on page 100
Removal steps of the LED card
100 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
2030 LCD panel, LCD cable, and hinge assembly
For access, remove these FRUs in order:
• “1170 LCD unit” on page 89
• “2010 LCD bezel assembly” on page 100
• “2020 LED card” on page 100
Removal steps of removing the LCD panel and the LCD cable
1. Grasp the end of two elastic adhesive tapes with tweezers. Pull out each tape slowly in the direction as
shown until two elastic tapes are all released from LCD unit 1.
Note: Do not pull the tapes too fast, otherwise, the tapes might snap.
Chapter 9.Removing or replacing a FRU 101
2. Turn over the LCD panel and then detach the LCD cable from the LCD panel as shown.
Installation steps of the LCD panel and the LCD cable
1. Peel off the release liners from one side of the new elastic adhesive tapes. Apply the tapes to the correct
locations. Peel off the release liners from the other side of the tapes. Ensure that two tapes are applied
correctly as shown.
102 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
2. Attach the LCD cable to the LCD panel as shown. Turn over the LCD panel to secure the LCD panel with
tapes.
Notes: For LCD panel with the factory color calibration feature, do the following to install new color profiles:
1. Connect your computer to a network and close the X-Rite Color Assistant program.
2. Go to C:\Program files (x86)\X-Rite Color Assistant and locate the
ProfileUpdaterForDisplayReplacement exe file.
3. Double-click the EXE file. Follow the on-screen instructions to input the display serial number and click
Submit. You can find the display serial number and instructions on a sticker affixed to the front of the
new LCD part. When the new color profiles are installed successfully, a prompted window will be
displayed.
Removal steps of removing the hinge assembly
Chapter 9.Removing or replacing a FRU 103
Step Screw (quantity) Color Torque
3M2.5 × 4 mm, flat-head, nylon-coated (6) Silver 0.294 Nm
(3.0 kgf-cm)
2040 Microphone board
If your computer model does not have a camera, there might be a microphone rubber attached.
For access, remove this FRU:
• “1170 LCD unit” on page 89
• “2010 LCD bezel assembly” on page 100
• “2020 LED card” on page 100
• “2030 LCD panel, LCD cable, and hinge assembly” on page 101
104 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
Removal steps of the microphone board
2050 Camera card and LED camera cable assembly
For access, remove these FRUs:
• “1170 LCD unit” on page 89
• “2010 LCD bezel assembly” on page 100
• “2020 LED card” on page 100
• “2030 LCD panel, LCD cable, and hinge assembly” on page 101
Removal steps of the conventional camera/microphone module
Chapter 9.Removing or replacing a FRU 105
Removal steps of the infrared camera/microphone module
Removal steps of the conventional camera/LED cable assembly
106 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
When installing:
Ensure that the connectors are attached firmly.
Removal steps of the infrared camera/LED cable assembly
2060 Antenna kit and LCD rear cover assembly
For access, remove these FRUs in order:
• “1170 LCD unit” on page 89
• “2010 LCD bezel assembly” on page 100
• “2020 LED card” on page 100
• “2030 LCD panel, LCD cable, and hinge assembly” on page 101
• “2050 Camera card and LED camera cable assembly” on page 105
Chapter 9.Removing or replacing a FRU 107
Removal steps of the antenna kit and LCD rear cover assembly
Cable routing:
When you install the antenna kit, route the cables as shown in the following illustration.
108 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
a Wireless LAN auxiliary antenna (black)
b Wireless WAN auxiliary antenna (blue)
c Wireless WAN main antenna (orange)
d Wireless LAN main antenna (grey)
Attention: As you route the cables, ensure that they are not subject to any tension. Tension could cause the
cables to be damaged by the cable guides, or a wire to be broken.
Removing an LCD FRU for touch models
This section provides instructions on how to remove an LCD FRU for models with touch feature.
3010 LCD strip bezel
For access, remove this FRU:
• “1170 LCD unit” on page 89
Removal steps of the LCD strip bezel
When installing:
Ensure that all the latches are attached firmly.
Chapter 9.Removing or replacing a FRU 109
3020 LED card
For access, remove these FRUs in order:
• “1170 LCD unit” on page 89
• “3010 LCD strip bezel” on page 109
Removal steps of the LED card
3030 LCD panel assembly, LCD cable, and hinge assembly
For access, remove these FRUs in order:
• “1170 LCD unit” on page 89
• “3010 LCD strip bezel” on page 109
• “3020 LED card” on page 110
Removal steps of the LCD panel assembly
Step Screw (quantity) Color Torque
1M2.5 × 4 mm, flat-head, nylon-coated (2) Silver 0.294 Nm
(3.0 kgf-cm)
110 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
Removal steps of the hinge assembly
Step Screw (quantity) Color Torque
3M2.5 × 4 mm, flat-head, nylon-coated (4) Silver 0.294 Nm
(3.0 kgf-cm)
4M2 × 3 mm, flat-head, nylon-coated (2) Silver 0.181 Nm
(1.85 kgf-cm)
3040 Camera card and LED camera cable assembly
For access, remove these FRUs:
• “1170 LCD unit” on page 89
• “3010 LCD strip bezel” on page 109
• “3020 LED card” on page 110
• “3030 LCD panel assembly, LCD cable, and hinge assembly” on page 110
112 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
3050 Antenna kit and LCD rear cover assembly
For access, remove these FRUs in order:
• “1170 LCD unit” on page 89
• “3010 LCD strip bezel” on page 109
• “3020 LED card” on page 110
• “3030 LCD panel assembly, LCD cable, and hinge assembly” on page 110
• “3040 Camera card and LED camera cable assembly” on page 112
114 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
Attention: As you route the cables, ensure that they are not subject to any tension. Tension could cause the
cables to be damaged by the cable guides, or a wire to be broken.
Antenna locations
a. Wireless LAN antenna (auxiliary)
b. Wireless WAN antenna (auxiliary, for selected models)
c. Wireless WAN antenna (main, for selected models)
d. Wireless LAN antenna (main)
Chapter 9.Removing or replacing a FRU 115
116 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
Appendix A. Notices
Lenovo may not offer the products, services, or features discussed in this document in all countries. Consult
your local Lenovo representative for information on the products and services currently available in your
area. Any reference to a Lenovo product, program, or service is not intended to state or imply that only that
Lenovo product, program, or service may be used. Any functionally equivalent product, program, or service
that does not infringe any Lenovo intellectual property right may be used instead. However, it is the user’s
responsibility to evaluate and verify the operation of any other product, program, or service.
Lenovo may have patents or pending patent applications covering subject matter described in this
document. The furnishing of this document does not give you any license to these patents. You can send
license inquiries, in writing, to:
Lenovo (United States), Inc.
1009 Think Place - Building One
Morrisville, NC 27560
U.S.A.
Attention: Lenovo Director of Licensing
LENOVO PROVIDES THIS PUBLICATION “AS IS” WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS
OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF NON-INFRINGEMENT,
MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. Some jurisdictions do not allow
disclaimer of express or implied warranties in certain transactions, therefore, this statement may not apply to
you.
This information could include technical inaccuracies or typographical errors. Changes are periodically made
to the information herein; these changes will be incorporated in new editions of the publication. Lenovo may
make improvements and/or changes in the product(s) and/or the program(s) described in this publication at
any time without notice.
The products described in this document are not intended for use in implantation or other life support
applications where malfunction may result in injury or death to persons. The information contained in this
document does not affect or change Lenovo product specifications or warranties. Nothing in this document
shall operate as an express or implied license or indemnity under the intellectual property rights of Lenovo or
third parties. All information contained in this document was obtained in specific environments and is
presented as an illustration. The result obtained in other operating environments may vary.
Lenovo may use or distribute any of the information you supply in any way it believes appropriate without
incurring any obligation to you.
Any references in this publication to non-Lenovo Web sites are provided for convenience only and do not in
any manner serve as an endorsement of those Web sites. The materials at those Web sites are not part of the
materials for this Lenovo product, and use of those Web sites is at your own risk.
Any performance data contained herein was determined in a controlled environment. Therefore, the result
obtained in other operating environments may vary significantly. Some measurements may have been made
on development-level systems and there is no guarantee that these measurements will be the same on
generally available systems. Furthermore, some measurements may have been estimated through
extrapolation. Actual results may vary. Users of this document should verify the applicable data for their
specific environment.
© Copyright Lenovo 2019 117
Electronic emissions notices
For electronic emission information on Class B digital devices, refer to the corresponding information in the
User Guide.
EU contact: Lenovo (Slovakia), Landererova 12, 811 09 Bratislava, Slovakia
Trademarks
The following terms are trademarks of Lenovo in the United States, other countries or both:
Lenovo
Lenovo logo
ThinkPad
ThinkPad logo
TrackPoint
Microsoft, Windows, Windows Server, and Cortana are trademarks of the Microsoft group of companies.
The terms HDMI and HDMI High-Definition Multimedia Interface are trademarks or registered trademarks of
HDMI Licensing LLC in the United States and other countries.
USB-C is a trademark of USB Implementers Forum.
Other company, product, or service names may be the trademarks or service marks of others.
118 ThinkPad P53 Hardware Maintenance Manual
Part Number: SP40T79775
Printed in China
(1P) P/N: SP40T79775
*1PSP40T79775*