Windows 8.1 Pro on the Lenovo Thinkpad W500

I recently installed Window 8.1 Pro on my Lenovo Thinkpad W500 and had run across an issue with the AMD drivers both on the Lenovo Site and from AMD.  Because the W500 uses a Switchable Graphics card, the AMD driver does not correctly install, you are stuck with a mis-identified Radeon 3650 driver and the system does not properly utilize the graphics card feature.

I read on the Thinkpad forums that many had simply given up running 8 and went back to using Windows 7.  The switchable graphics card driver for Windows 7 is, at best, buggy.  I found this especially true on my T500, which actually does have the Radeon 3650.  My W500 constantly developed errors related to the AMD software and this was a constant source of frustration to others, requiring a specific set of steps to install drivers to minimize problems.

This is totally unacceptable, but something I just had to deal with.  My options were to accept the buggy software and simply use the Intel GMA card, disable the switchable graphics in BIOS and use the buggy mis-identified 3650 driver, or keep trying to hack on the drivers until I got something to work.  But as I primarily used the AMD/ATI grpahics card for gaming, I opted to disable the Switchable graphics option and force the Discrete Graphics card to be used.  These options are all in the BIOS, so you will need to do this first.

I found a post by one member who claimed he was able to get the Lenovo drivers to work by installing the driver package, but by cancelling out the actual driver install portion.  It seems that you can use the Windows 7 drivers by setting Windows compatibility to an earlier version and running the package as an administrator.

I tried this, but kept getting an error during the CIM portion of the install.  My solution was to open the installation folder, seek out each of the individual installers, and set each to Compatibility mode for Windows 7.  After a few tries, I eventually located the CIM installer and, it too, was set to compatibility mode for Windows 7.  While the install completed, Windows 8 then popped up a compatibility module for the driver software.

As I understood Windows 8 architecture, Microsoft .Net Framework Services are now embedded in the OS itself, meaning you no longer have to download and install the packages as with previous versions of Windows.  However, some older software may require legacy versions of the .Net Framework to operate.  This was the case with the Lenovo Windows 7 AMD Driver package.

Windows 8 prompted me to download .Net Framework files for versions 2.0 through 3.0 in order to guarantee operation of the driver software.  I did so, once the download was complete and a reboot of the OS, the AMD driver package worked properly.

The post caliming Windows 8 functionality also claimed he was able to get the switchable graphics function to work, but I have never cared for this functionality, so have decided to just use the AMD card for now.

To sum up what I did, here are my instructions for getting the AMD/ATI Discrete Graphics to work properly in Windows 8.1 Pro.

Changes to BIOS
1.  During boot, hit "Thinkvantage" button to access Thinkpad BIOS.
2.  On the Graphics card function, disable OS Detection of Switchable Graphics.
3.  Set the Primary Graphics card to "Discrete"
4.  Save Changes and EXIT BIOS.

Finding the correct driver
5.  Boot into Windows 8.1 - the graphics card will likely be detected and the OS will download a Radeon 3650 WDM- driver package from Windows Updates.  This is OK.
6.  Download the Lenovo Windows 7 W500 Switchable Graphics /AMD-ATI Driver Package from the Lenovo website.
7.  Allow the Driver Package to extract the files to the c:/Drivers directory, but do not allow the installer to install software just yet - it will fail.

Edit the properties of the Installation package components
8.  Open  the c:/drivers directory and locate the following files:

• c:/drivers/win/video/setup.exe
• c:/drivers/win/video/bin64/ATIsetup.exe
• c:/drivers/win/video/bin64/InstallManagerApp.exe
• c:/drivers/win/video/bin64/setup.exe

9.  Each of these, open the properties and set program compatibility to "Windows 7" and check the "run as administrator" option at the bottom of the check list.  Click Apply and OK.

Run the installer package manually.
10.  Run the c:/drivers/win/video/setup.exe program.  If you get any errors during the installation, make note of the item and then go back into the installer directory to locate that installer, change the compatibility of that installer, and run it again.  You should have all components successfully install.

The Net Framework portion
10.  At this point, Windows 8 will prompt you with a request to download addition .Net Framework components.  Allow Windows to download these from Windows Update and complete their installation.  At the end of this process, you may be prompted to reboot the computer.  DO IT!!!

Follow-up
11.  During the reboot, the driver package will run an automated command line prompt for WinSAT.exe  Just allow this to complete as this is part of the Windows 7 installation.  Once this has completed, you will boot tot he desktop and be all set.

12.  If you check the Graphics Card Properties, it should correctly display the Radeon Mobility FireGL V5700 properties instead of the Radeon 3650 WDM driver.

Thats it!

If you have questions, please post below and I will try to help out the best I can.

Lenovo Thinkpad T500 is a mix of great value and great performance!

I posted this review to my eBay page.  Unfortunately, I was somewhat limited as to how many characters I could post, but with no such limitations here, decided to also post it here.

I purchased the T500 as a replacement to my T61, which had gone down when the cooling fan died. I'd found a replacement fan assembly and planned to replace the damaged component, but I also was interested in getting a newer system that utilized the less expensive DDR3 RAM.

What I like about the T500 is the larger display and the additional expansion. On the smaller T400, SD and Memory Card expansion occupies the Express/PCMCIA bays. This is a compromise that can limit your expansion capabilities. On the T500, SD is placed on the front of the palm rest, which greatly simplifies access, while freeing the Express Card Bay for further expansion.

The larger display of the T500 gives you more real estate on your desktop, but also give you a larger picture for watching video, playing games. The ATI discrete graphics gives excellent performance for gaming, graphics and video emitting, and makes for an excellent portable workstation.

What I don't like about the T500 - RAM
This has more to do with the internals than anything else.  The T500 is extremely touchy when it comes to RAM, so make doubly sure you verify compatibility of the RAM you choose. Choosing the wrong RAM will result in severe memory stability problems in Windows and Linux.  If you are getting memory errors in Windows, Linux, or, more specifically during installation you should pull the RAM in the system and replace it with modules rated for the system.  I suggest Newegg's Memory Finder as even Crucial was throwing out incompatible modules.

The memory problems actually lead me to purchase the Thinkpad W500.  The Lenovo Diagnostic tool gives a generic answer when diagnosing Memory and System Board errors, relying on your warranty to allow Lenovo Support to give you a specific diagnosis of your problem.  As my T500 was two years past its warranty, I decided to look up my issue via the Thinkpad Community Forums.  In the mean time, my girlfriend ordered me a W500 from a reputable retailer offering the W500 with a new copy of Windows 7 for $350 shipped.  While more expensive, but came with a no DOA warranty that my eBay retailer did not offer.

Shortly before my W500 arrived, I was able to replace both memory modules on my T500, therefore completely eliminating further problems with my T500.  Instead of returning the W500, I opted to send my T400 to my mom, who had been using an aging Gateway laptop since 2004.  This older machine was equally finicky when it came to finding RAM, so I opted to give her a machine I knew she could count on.

Switchable Graphics - ATI & Intel GMA
The Discrete Graphics can cause overheating issues in the T400 Series, the T500 seems to address this with a larger cooling system, but the ATI graphics does run hotter than the Intel GMA-only versions. For this reason, I suggest having the cooling system cleaned thoroughly.  This requires partial dis-assembly of the system to accomplish.  If you are comfortable opening your system, this isn't a problem and there are several excellent videos detailing this procedure on Youtube, but it can be inconvenient. Knowing this, you should consider a laptop cooler if you intend extended gaming or if you need to push performance.

Another drawback is the Switchable Graphics layout. The system has both ATI and Intel GMA. You can go into the BIOs and force ATI or GMA depending upon your power and performance requirements; I believe this to the best way.

The AMD/ATI Switchable Graphics driver is problematic at times.  Performance during gaming can suffer if the system jumps between graphics options, which can happen when running on battery power or when operating power saving options.

Lastly, the AMD Control Panel for ATI graphics can cause performance issues when a newer driver becomes available.  Newer drivers are not always installed properly or there are, at times, problems with installation itself.  In my opinion, this is more of an issue with AMD than the T500, itself.  Many times, I prefer to get ATI Drivers from Lenovo's support site, even though they are not as up to date.  
 
T500 vs W500 vs R500 - Which to buy?
If you do not require the ATI-enabled versions and think the Intel GMA version will suffice, I suggest instead looking to the R500.  It has the same basic layout as the T500, only with Intel GMA Graphics option. If you need more performance, I'd suggest the W500  Here are some basic specifications of the three systems:

T500 you will get Switchable Graphics w/ Intel GMA 4500/ATI Radeon 3650 with 256MB, Core 2 Duo 2.0 - 2.93 GHz processor options, 8GB Max of RAM, 15.4" screen.

W500 you will get Switchable Graphics w/ Intel GMA 4500/ATI FireGL V5700 with 512MB, Core 2 Duo 2.0 - 3.17 GHz processor, 8GGB Max of RAM, 15.4" screen

R500 you will get Intel GMA 4500, Core 2 Duo 2.0 - 3GHz processor, 8GGB Max of RAM, 15.4" screen

It comes down to the graphics options, choose the one that fits your budget and needs.

My Personal History with the Thinkpad

Many may wonder why I choose a Thinkpad and simply put, it is every bit a reliable business machine.  When you work in IT where you are responsible for fixing broken and failing computers, its nice to have a quality machine.  I decided to write this short article about my experiences with the Thinkpad line.

The Thinkpad laptop was essentially a group effort by all of the Japanese electronics industry to create an American business laptop that was reliable, robust, and able to withstand the rigors of mobile computing.  It wasn't by any means, the best or fastest hardware, but they were built to last and work.  I feel Lenovo was passed that torch and has done quite well in keeping the Thinkpad line alive well after IBM got out of the personal computer market.

A major benefit to using a business class machine is the Thinkpad is well-supported with drivers and replacement hardware.  They are also quite easy to work with, not requiring removal of over-sized toy-like and bulky chassis like a Dell and not requiring an Nth level of redundant dis-assembly to service like Sony or HP.  They are quite easy to work on and typically require minimal maintenance.

IBM Thinkpad 600x

IBM Thinkpad 600X
I was first introduced to the Thinkpad line in 2000 while working at the Odessa American.  One of the reporters had a 600X with a Pentium 3 450MHz processor and a 20GB hard drive.  I remember this because, at the time, the specs matched that of my dad's Gateway and slightly higher than my own Gateway. 

My co-worker often bragged of playing Rogue Spear on the machine, which I had also played very nearly every night.  I was impressed by the amount of power and the fact he'd spent close to 2 grand for it.  Still, I would have loved such a high-priced toy.  Before this, my only experience with an IBM machine was a very quirky ThinkCenter at McDonald's which seemed to crash simply by looking at it.

IBM Thinkpad 380 Series

IBM Thinkpad 380
In 2007, I was given an IBM THinkpad 380 Series by my boss at Discover-net.  The machine sported a Pentium II 300MHz processor and 196MB of RAM (2x 128MB of RAM) and a 10GB hard drive.  At first she wanted me to fix it up for her son to use, but after getting several viruses, she gave up on it. 

Her only stipulation on it was if I sold it, she be reimbursed for the two sticks of RAM she had bought.  $50.  Easily enough, I reformatted the hard drive, stuck Windows 2000 Pro on it, and used it for a makeshift Unreal Tournament server.  Eventually, I decided to sell it and was able to split the $100 with my boss.

IBM Thinkpad T20

IBM Thinkpad T20
Shortly before my gave me the 380, I'd purchased a T60 from eBay to use as my secondary machine at work.  I used it mostly for working in Putty for SSH sessions.  The machine sported a Pentium III 650MHz processor, 512MB of RAM and a 20GB hard drive and was running Windows 98 Second Edition.

The machine has a SiS 8MB graphics card, but was easily able to run games like Unreal Tournament, Return to Castle Wolfenstein, and Soldier of Fortune.  Through stroke of luck, I was given a 40GB hard drive by a client when they upgraded their laptop to a more spacious 120GB drive.

Running Windows 2000, I was fortunate to resell the computer for $150, the same amount I had purchased it for.  I only sold the machine in 2008 because my Supervisor had given me an HP Compaq Evo N600 in exchange for refurbishing several additional machines he'd brought for projects and to sell.

IBM Thinkpad A20

IBM Thinkpad A20 repairs
Around this time, my boss's daughter brought her Thinkpad A20 into the office for repairs.   She'd damaged the PCMCIA modem and had wanted me to remove the damaged card and find a replacement for her.  Fortunately for her, I went one better and simply replaced the integrated hardware modem the system had internally. 

The 20, 30, and 40 Series all were equipped with the needed ports for modem and ethernet, they simply had to have the correct daughter card installed to add the functionality.  She was back up and running within a week.  Again, the vast amount of replacement parts made repairs very simple.

IBM Thinkpad T40

IBM Thinkpad T40
This is where I ran into one of my first duds in the Thinkpad lines.  As nice as the Evo N600 was, they were not Thinkpad class and I decided to replace it with similar hardware.  After searching eBay, I found an excellent seller in Colorado who was selling T40s for $150 shipped and promptly placed my order.

When I received it, the machine was running Windows 98 and I promptly upgraded to Windows 2000.  Unfortunately, I'd noticed the sound driver had not been loaded during the previous install and made a note to grab the correct Windows 2000 drivers.  After completing the installation of network drivers, the sound still was not working.

After a few days of trying to detect hardware, I noticed the modem was also not functioning.  After checking with Thinkforums, i found it to be a common issue with the T40.  Luckily, the seller graciously accepted a return, even offering to compensate me for the additional RAM I'd purchased.

IBM Thinkpad T41

IBM Thinkpad T41
After running into my first eBay dud, I'd decided to play it safe and order a refurbished T41 from Tiger Direct.  I paid an extra $50 for peace of mind and got the original IBM OS Install CDs with it.  The computer was in stellar condition and served me well for the next two years.

Pentium 4M - 1.6GHz, 2 Gigs of RAM, and a 60GB Hard drive.  The graphics were an ATI Radeon 9700 with 32 MB of RAM - I might add, a slight boost over the Evo N600's P3 1.3GHz, more RAM, but the same graphics card.

In December 2009, I picked up an HP Mini, which replaced my Thinkpad in the hardware department and brought me to the Windows 7 OS.  Having a newer system with better hardware, I decided to loan out the Thinkpad to my sister, who had been struggling with a slightly older Dell laptop.  From there, my story jumps forward a few years.

also see blog post phasing-out-older-machines July 2013

Changes to the Thinkpad line
During the mid-2000s, IBM shifted production of the Thinkpad line to computer company, Lenovo.  I believe this included Series 40 and on.

In 2005, Lenovo purchased the IBM personal computer business and the ThinkPad brand along with it. Speaking of the purchase of IBM's personal computer division, Liu Chuanzhi said, "We benefited in three ways from the IBM acquisition. We got the ThinkPad brand, IBM's more advanced PC manufacturing technology and the company's international resources, such as its global sales channels and operation teams. These three elements have shored up our sales revenue in the past several years." ~ "Acquisition by Lenovo," ThinkPad Wikipedia Article

Many of the people I knew on the Thinkpad Enthusiasts' sites were worried quality would take a dive when Lenovo acquired the Thinkpad line.  There have been issues with batteries, but that was not necessarily a Lenovo issue, but rather, a battery issue that affected many other computer manufacturers.  I confess, I haven't noticed significant changes in quality, but rather, more diversity in the product lineups.

Lenovo Thinkpad Tablets
In February on 2013, I was discussing tablets with a fellow airsofter on Airsoft Ohio chat.  His school had issued Lenovo Thinkpad x230 Tablets to students.  He'd mentioned it's sluggish performance and the monetary details of his responsibility towards the school-issued equipment.

My solution to his problem was adding RAM to the system and getting around the draconian school OS installations by removing the harddrive, installing his own, and installing his OS of choice.  This would allow him to use the machine as he wished on his time, but return the school drive for use when needed for various school-related functions.  Oh, and I also found a very inexpensive source for Lenovo Stylus to save him $50, should he lose it, with an additional scheme to sell them to his fellow students at a tidy profit.  :D

My research into the tablet led me to the realization that its compact size and better processing power made it an ideal replacement for the netbooks I'd had.  Preferring a smaller machine due to having to carry my computer to work on foot and because I had limited space at my new apartment, I began to scour eBay for an affordable netbook replacement.

Lenovo Thinkpad X61 Tablet

Lenovo Thinkpad X61 Tablet
In early March (2013), I ordered my first X61 Tablet from eBay.  It was in poor shape, but otherwise was operational.  The system sported a 12" multitouch display, 150GB hard drive, Ram expandable to 8GB, and the much-coveted 1.8GHz Core 2 Duo processor. 

The X61 Tablet is an expanded version of the compact X61 Series notebook.  It's a smaller-sized machine that lacks integrated optical drive to save on power and space requirements.  The idea behind it being you have the power of a full-sized notbook in a very compact form factor.

Indeed, the X61 Tablet was preceded by the X40/41 tablet which was powered by Penitum 4-M archecture and sported similar 1.5 GHz - 1.8 GHz processors.  The X60/61 Tablets were offered in Core 2 Duo 1.6 and 1.8 GHz versions, the 1.8GHz being somewhat more difficult to find.  I lucked out and got one ont he first try!

I soon began to pick up replacement parts and components to fully restore the X61 to full functionality when I came across a second 1.6 GHz Tablet for $80.  YOINK!!!  I simply had to replace the missing hard drive and find an AC adapter - problem was solved, problem would stay solved.

Lenovo Thinkpad T61

Lenovo Thinkpad T61
As I had mentioned in an earlier blog post, my experiences with the T61 Series had been a few years earlier while working for a client.  I had performed an OS downgrade and was very pleased with the newest Lenovo offering.  I made a mental note to look back at the machine a few years later when I'd begun looking for a new laptop.

As much as I enjoy my X61 tablets and my current work computer, a Dell Inspiron E1505, I want something with better processing options, better RAM upgrades, and better screen resolution.  I also wanted to continue to be able to have a reliable system with access to spare and replacement parts.

Realistically, my T61 can be upgraded to a 2.5Ghz Core 2 Duo, 8 GB of RAM, and has excellent high resolution at 1440 x 900.  And at around $180 for a used machine, I'm staying within a very low budget and still coming out ahead.

Gaming vs. Work
To those who do follow my blog, I do enjoy playing a few old favorites - Unreal Tournament, Battlefield 2, etc.  But I do, very much, work from my machines.  I watch movies, I write boring blog posts, and troll Airsoft Ohio Chat.  At the end of the day, I want a machine I can trust to do my job and help in winding down when I get home.

I don't need a dedicated gaming machine that requires constant tweaking and special cooling considerations.  I just need something that works and that will let me do my work.