When I Push the "Start" Button on My ThinkPad T20 the Hard Drive Light Flashes & Nothing Else Happens
Owners of ThinkPad T2X series laptops, including the T20, have often reported that the battery or hard drive light blinks when the "Power" button is pressed, but the machine will not start. Referred to as the “Blink of Death” (BoD), this unpredictable malfunction occurs without warning. Its cause has never been officially released, but knowledgeable owners have reported some success with their own techniques.
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Battery Issues
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One trick that may work, at least temporarily, is to eliminate all sources of power to the T20 and let the machine sit for a few hours. Many owners have discovered that replacing the batteries after this resting period allows the laptop to power up normally. Every power source must be removed, including the main battery, the adapter plug and the small CMOS battery located inside the main battery compartment. Check the output of the batteries to ensure they are still holding and offering a proper charge, as older, failing batteries sometimes contribute to the BoD problem.
Failed Capacitors
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Seated next to the CPU unit is a row of capacitors that help retain power inside the T20. These capacitors, made from tantalum or aluminum, wear faster if exposed to heat, and the CPU chip generates high levels of heat during operation. If these capacitors fail, your laptop will not have access to the proper amount of electricity it requires. Tech-savvy T20 owners may be able to solder new capacitors in place, but this also is a temporary fix and the BoD usually returns.
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Replacing the Motherboard
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The prevailing theory as to the cause of the BoD is that a power regulator chip on the main system board is faulty. Since many of the other important components of the laptop are integrated into the motherboard, replacing this faulty power regulator involves replacing the entire motherboard. All laptops require a specialized setup and configuration of the motherboard to ensure proper fit in the compact casing, so verify that any motherboard you are considering as a replacement will work with, and fit inside, your T20.
Considerations
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Lenovo's ThinkPad T20 was released in 2002, making the machine an old-timer in computer technology terms. Replacing a motherboard can be costly, and you may have trouble finding compatible boards for such an old system. Before making any decisions—or spending any money—weigh the cost of repair against the cost of replacement. In some cases, purchasing a newer laptop may be a cheaper option.
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