Lenovo T490s

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Lenovo ThinkPad T490s 14-inch Ultrabook User Manual

Model: T490s

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting your Lenovo ThinkPad T490s ultrabook. Please read this manual thoroughly to ensure safe and optimal use of your device.

2. Safety Information

Observe the following safety precautions to prevent injury or damage to your device:

  • Do not expose the device to extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, or excessive moisture.
  • Use only Lenovo-approved power adapters and accessories.
  • Avoid placing heavy objects on the laptop.
  • Do not attempt to disassemble or repair the device yourself. Refer to qualified service personnel.
  • Keep the device away from liquids and strong chemicals.

3. Getting Started (Setup)

3.1 Unpacking

Carefully remove your ThinkPad T490s and its accessories from the packaging. Ensure all components are present:

  • Lenovo ThinkPad T490s Ultrabook
  • AC Power Adapter and Power Cord
  • Documentation (this manual, warranty information)

3.2 Connecting Power

Before first use, connect the AC power adapter to your ThinkPad T490s and a power outlet to fully charge the battery.

  1. Connect the power cord to the AC adapter.
  2. Plug the AC adapter into the USB-C power port on your laptop.
  3. Plug the power cord into an electrical outlet.
Left side view of Lenovo ThinkPad T490s showing USB-C power port

Figure 3.2.1: Left side of the ThinkPad T490s, illustrating the USB-C power port (leftmost port).

3.3 Initial Boot and Windows Setup

Once connected to power, open the laptop lid and press the power button. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the Windows 10 Pro setup process. This includes selecting your region, language, creating a user account, and connecting to a Wi-Fi network.

4. Product Overview

Familiarize yourself with the physical features of your ThinkPad T490s.

4.1 Front View

Lenovo ThinkPad T490s open, showing screen and keyboard

Figure 4.1.1: Front-left view of the ThinkPad T490s with the lid open, displaying the screen, keyboard, and TrackPoint.

Top-down view of Lenovo ThinkPad T490s keyboard and screen

Figure 4.1.2: Top-down view of the ThinkPad T490s, highlighting the full keyboard, TrackPoint, touchpad, and display.

  • Display: 14.0" FHD (1920x1080) IPS, Low-power, anti-glare.
  • Webcam: HD 720p with Hybrid Infrared (IR) and ThinkShutter privacy cover.
  • Keyboard: Backlit keyboard with TrackPoint.
  • Touchpad: Multi-touch gesture support.
  • Fingerprint Reader: Integrated for secure login.

4.2 Left Side Ports

Detailed view of left side ports on Lenovo ThinkPad T490s

Figure 4.2.1: Close-up view of the left side of the ThinkPad T490s, showing various ports.

  • USB 3.1 Gen2 Type-C / Intel Thunderbolt 3: For power, data transfer, and external display.
  • USB 3.1 Gen1 Type-C: For data transfer and charging.
  • USB 3.1 Gen1: Standard USB port.
  • HDMI 1.4: For connecting to external displays.
  • Headphone/Microphone Combo Jack: For audio input/output.

4.3 Right Side Ports

Detailed view of right side ports on Lenovo ThinkPad T490s

Figure 4.3.1: Close-up view of the right side of the ThinkPad T490s, showing various ports.

  • USB 3.1 Gen1: Standard USB port.
  • Kensington Lock Slot: For physical security.
  • Combo MicroSD card reader/Micro-Sim slot: For memory cards and cellular connectivity (if equipped).

5. Operating Your ThinkPad

5.1 Power Management

  • Power On: Press the power button located on the top-right of the keyboard deck.
  • Sleep Mode: Close the lid or select "Sleep" from the Windows Start menu.
  • Shut Down: Select "Shut down" from the Windows Start menu.
  • Restart: Select "Restart" from the Windows Start menu.

5.2 Keyboard Functions

The ThinkPad T490s features a backlit keyboard with dedicated function keys (Fn keys) that provide quick access to system controls.

  • Fn + F1-F12: Control features like volume, brightness, Wi-Fi, and external display. Refer to the icons on each F-key for specific functions.
  • Keyboard Backlight: Press Fn + Spacebar to cycle through backlight levels (off, low, high).

5.3 Touchpad and TrackPoint

Your ThinkPad T490s offers two pointing devices: the multi-touch touchpad and the TrackPoint.

  • Touchpad: Use gestures for scrolling, zooming, and switching applications. Customize settings in Windows Settings > Devices > Touchpad.
  • TrackPoint: Use the red cap in the center of the keyboard to move the cursor, and the three buttons below the spacebar for left-click, right-click, and scroll functions.

5.4 Connecting Peripherals

Connect external devices using the available ports:

  • USB Devices: Plug USB drives, mice, or keyboards into the USB 3.1 Gen1 ports.
  • External Displays: Use the HDMI port or a USB-C to DisplayPort/HDMI adapter with the Thunderbolt 3 port.
  • Audio Devices: Connect headphones or external speakers to the headphone/microphone combo jack.

5.5 Wireless Connectivity

  • Wi-Fi: Connect to wireless networks via Intel Dual-Band 9560 802.11 AC. Access Wi-Fi settings from the Windows taskbar network icon.
  • Bluetooth: Pair Bluetooth devices (e.g., headphones, mice) using Bluetooth 5.0. Manage Bluetooth devices in Windows Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices.

5.6 Camera and Microphone Usage

The integrated HD 720p IR camera and microphone are ready for video conferencing and voice commands.

  • ThinkShutter: Slide the physical cover over the camera lens for privacy when not in use.
  • Camera Settings: Adjust camera and microphone settings within applications or Windows Settings > Privacy > Camera/Microphone.

5.7 Fingerprint Reader

For enhanced security, set up Windows Hello with your fingerprint.

  1. Go to Windows Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options.
  2. Under "Windows Hello Fingerprint," click "Set up" and follow the on-screen instructions to register your fingerprint.

6. Maintenance and Care

6.1 Cleaning the Device

  • Screen: Use a soft, lint-free cloth lightly dampened with water or a screen cleaner. Do not spray liquid directly onto the screen.
  • Keyboard and Casing: Use a soft, dry cloth. For stubborn dirt, a slightly damp cloth with mild soap solution can be used, ensuring no liquid enters openings.
  • Ports: Use compressed air to gently clear dust from ports.

6.2 Battery Care

  • Avoid fully discharging the battery frequently.
  • Store the laptop in a cool, dry place if not used for extended periods.
  • For optimal battery health, avoid continuous charging at 100% for long durations. Lenovo Vantage software can help manage battery charging thresholds.

6.3 Software Updates

Regularly update your operating system and drivers to ensure optimal performance and security.

  • Windows Updates: Go to Windows Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
  • Driver Updates: Use the Lenovo Vantage application or visit the official Lenovo support website for the latest drivers.

6.4 Storage Management

Your ThinkPad T490s comes with a 1TB PCIe-NVMe SSD. To maintain performance:

  • Regularly delete unnecessary files.
  • Utilize cloud storage for large files.
  • Windows Disk Cleanup utility can help free up space.

7. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter.

7.1 No Power / Does Not Turn On

  • Ensure the AC adapter is securely connected to both the laptop and a working power outlet.
  • Check if the power outlet is functional by plugging in another device.
  • If the battery is completely drained, it may take a few minutes of charging before the laptop can power on.

7.2 No Display / Blank Screen

  • Ensure the laptop is powered on (power indicator light is on).
  • Try adjusting the screen brightness using the Fn keys (e.g., Fn + F5/F6).
  • If an external monitor is connected, try disconnecting it or pressing Fn + F7 to cycle display outputs.
  • Perform a hard reset: Disconnect all peripherals and the power adapter, then press and hold the power button for 15-20 seconds. Reconnect power and try to turn it on.

7.3 Wi-Fi Connectivity Issues

  • Ensure Wi-Fi is enabled (check the network icon in the taskbar).
  • Restart your router and modem.
  • Forget the Wi-Fi network in Windows settings and reconnect.
  • Update your Wi-Fi drivers via Lenovo Vantage or the Lenovo support website.

7.4 Slow Performance

  • Close unnecessary applications running in the background.
  • Check Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc) for processes consuming high CPU, memory, or disk usage.
  • Ensure Windows and drivers are up to date.
  • Run a disk cleanup and check for malware.

8. Specifications

FeatureSpecification
ModelLenovo ThinkPad T490s
ProcessorIntel Core i7-8565U (1.80GHz, up to 4.60GHz, 4 Cores, 8MB Cache)
Operating SystemWindows 10 Pro 64-bit
Memory16GB DDR4 2400MHz (soldered)
Storage1TB PCIe-NVMe SSD
Display14.0" FHD (1920x1080, 400 nits) IPS, Low-power, anti-glare
GraphicsIntel UHD Graphics 620
WebcamHD 720p Hybrid Infrared (IR) with ThinkShutter
ConnectivityIntel Dual-Band 9560 802.11 AC, Bluetooth 5.0
Ports2x USB 3.1 Gen1, 1x USB 3.1 Gen1 Type-C, 1x USB 3.1 Gen2 Type-C/Thunderbolt 3, HDMI 1.4, Combo MicroSD/Micro-Sim, Headphone/mic combo
KeyboardBacklit
Fingerprint ReaderYes
Weight2.81 lbs (1.27 kg)
Dimensions (WxDxH)12.95" x 8.90" x 0.67" (329mm x 226mm x 17mm)
Battery57 Wh Lithium-Ion

9. Warranty and Support

Your Lenovo ThinkPad T490s comes with a 3-Year Lenovo Depot Warranty. For warranty claims or technical support, please refer to the following resources:

  • Lenovo Support Website: Visit support.lenovo.com for drivers, manuals, and troubleshooting guides.
  • Contact Support: Information on contacting Lenovo technical support can be found on their website.
  • Warranty Details: For full terms and conditions of your warranty, please refer to the warranty documentation included with your product or on the Lenovo support website.

© 2023 Lenovo. All rights reserved.

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