Windows 7 or 8?

[miket82]

8 is OK but download Classic Start Button software (it's free and no nags) to give you a proper start button until and if you get used to the Metro system. Windows 8.1, to be released on 17th October is a bit better but only available free if you have an existing license. Win 7 is reliable. If you don't like change stick with 7 otherwise go for 8 but it can be annoying and can insist on doing things its way. I use both, including the preview of 8.1 but prefer 7. If you decide to get a touch screen 8 is the best choice.

[miket82]

sorry not good at explaining things, there is a a switch which I tried and nothing, it comes on and goes off, the blue thing I mean it at the end of a black cable it has 2 blue plug things that you screw to the tower and one to the monitor etc, it is the screw bit that is missing so not able to screw it in right, hope that makes sense? the on/off switch at the front just does no work,I could see the ethernet cable was working and the monitor works

The graphic plug can be used without the screw holder provided the plug is plugged in so that the ends where the screws are entered straight in and once plugged in the plug doesn't wobble if you attempt to wobble it. However, if you move either the tower and/or the cable moves this may be enough for the connection to break and the display will go dark.

 

However, if the monitor works with the plug you describe you have entered it correctly bearing in my my proviso above about possible movement. Also, I assume you can see the Ethernet cable lights flashing when you say the ethernet cable is working. This means that the on/off switch is working otherwise nothing would work and I suggest the LED indicating the switch is working is the problem.

 

If this is a new machine I suggest you contact the supplier, report the faults and take it from there as there is a strong possibility that if you have these, albeit minor faults, there are probably other more major hidden faults just waiting to bite you. It does suggest sloppy building and a lack of post testing by the supplier before dispatching it you as neither would be a result of transportation damage.

 

Hope this helps.

 

It is possible that the missing screw was removed when the graphics plug was originally used and then removed for dispatch. This can happen if during the original build the internal connection was not securely fixed or the plug was overtightened meaning that on removal it took the connecting socket screw with it. The LED failing to light will almost certainly be down to a faulty solder joint. DO NOT attempt this repair unless you have small part soldering skills.

Edited October 5, 2013 by miket82
extra info

[miket82]

Just make sure it's not Lenovo. It really is a piece of cheap junk.

I had a Lenovo laptop which I bought whilst working in Bali. It was used heavily, I made constant software alterations to, it experienced high temperatures and almost 100% humidity for most of its life with me. After 4 years I sold it on return to the UK as it is still in use today, 6 years after purchased. I never had a single problem with it and it was never cleaned, it just worked. It still does!