Help, T420s display/video card issue!

[rpitiger]

Hi, all. I would appreciate for any input.

Recently it happened a lot with my T420s especially when I was on full-screen video playback. The screen suddenly became like the image I attach below and there was no response at all. Then after 30 seconds or so, the system would shut down. I suspect it a over-heat problem with my video card. BTW, the fan in my T420s is also running like crazy all the time, I have put up with this ever since I got my laptop

My last laptop was T61. With all the Nvidia video card problem before, I am so afraid this would hit me again. Should I return the laptop immediately to Lenovo. I am writing my thesis right now with this computer. Really cannot afford not having my computer for some time.

[ThorsHammer]

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rpitiger wrote:

Should I return the laptop immediately to Lenovo? I am writing my thesis right now with this computer.

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Did the machine ship less than 21 days ago?  If yes, yes to the question above.  At least that is what  would do.

[Kicker774]

I've seen 2 maybe 3 of these.

You'll need to send it back to Lenovo to get the systemboard replaced. (Video card issue of some sort)

[lead_org Microsoft MVP Contributor]

it is better to exchange it for new one if you are within the DOA time period, or get it repaired if it is more than 21 days old.

[NINE]

Hi rpitiger,

Wow, what ur is something i've never seen before. I must agree with the rest of the guys in this discussion though. The best bet is to contact Lenovo service and arrange for a repair it does look as if the graphics on ur machine has malfuctioned.

However i would like to know what type of graphics card do you have and which operating system do u have installed?

Do let me know and let check if there a way or at least a work around that can help.

regards

[Tug777]

I have the same exact issue with my T420s. When I watch a video longer than 45 minutes, my T240s screen goes all white (exactly the same as the picture shown in this thread).

I did update the video drivers from Lenovo website but it did not resolve the problem.

Yes, the system is under warranty but is this a product defect or an engineering issue? Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

[kayttajatunnus]

Same thing here.

Has anyone found any solution?

I have T420s, Win7 Pro 64-bit, i5-2520, Intel HD3000 graphics card.

http://i45.tinypic.com/vie6v5.jpg

Mod edit:  Converted pic to link per Forum rule, 50k limit on pics

[Kicker774]

The solution is to have the systemboard replaced.

I havn't seen a repeat of this issue on the few machines (2 or 3) since replacing the systemboard.

[kayttajatunnus]

Thanks for the info. I'll contact Lenovo support.

[nibs Guru]

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rpitiger wrote:

Really cannot afford not having my computer for some time.

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If it is foreseeable that being without your computer would create a hardship, then you should consider upgrading to one of the warranties with on-site service. I have next business day on-site service on both of my ThinkPads and it makes life easier.