How to Reinstall an IBM T42

Whether your IBM ThinkPad T42 has slowed down due to a virus, has too many corrupted files to operate properly, or you just to start over, IBM allows you to do this using either the hidden partition or from Rescue and Recovery disks that you created yourself. The IBM ThinkPad T42 was shipped from the factory with a hidden partition that holds both the Windows XP operating system assigned to your ThinkPad and the drivers needed to make the laptop perform flawlessly. The Rescue and Recovery disks perform the same function.

Things You'll Need

• Rescue & Recovery disks (optional)

Instructions

Using the Hidden Partition

1. Shut down your computer completely. If you are using the original hard drive that came with the machine, Rescue and Recovery disks will not be needed.

2. Reboot your computer and press either the "F1" key or the blue "Access IBM" key when the IBM logo appears on the screen.

3. Choose "Rescue and Recovery" from the options given on the screen.

4. Click on "Restore to Factory Settings" from the new options given.

5. Allow the process to complete, which may take 10 to 20 minutes.

6. Load any software desired after the install process is complete and Windows XP is running.

Using Rescue and Recovery Disks

1. Place the disk labeled "number one" in the CD drive. Reboot your system.

2. Click "Yes" when the system asks if you wish to restore the factory settings.

3. Allow the process to complete, changing disks as requested. This process can take up to an hour to perform from the disks.

Tips & Warnings

• An alternative method of reaching the Rescue and Recovery screen is to press "F11" when the system restarts.

• You should always make a set of Rescue and Recovery disks in case of complete hard drive failure. Instructions to do this are found under "All Programs," "Access IBM," and "Create Recovery Disks" on the Start menu of Windows XP.

• If you cannot make a set of disks, contact IBM and see if disks are available for your T42 model and serial number.

References

• IBM: How to Use the Pre-boot Service Partition to Recover your Software