IdeaPad Y400/Y500

Lenovo IdeaPad Y400

The Lenovo IdeaPad Y400 and Y500 are notebook computers equipped with a keyboard, multitouch touchpad, JBL speakers, integrated camera, USB connections, external display ports, and removable hardware modules. Both models support everyday computer operations, multimedia playback, wired and wireless networking, and external peripherals.

The IdeaPad Y500 includes a separate numeric keypad, while both models provide function-key shortcuts for screen brightness, audio volume, wireless communication, sleep mode, and other system controls.

The computers feature a Novo button for accessing BIOS Setup, the boot menu, and Lenovo OneKey Recovery. The OneKey Recovery system allows users to back up the system partition and restore Windows when necessary.

Product Features and Specifications

Technical Specifications

Hardware features vary by model and configuration.

Differences Between the Y400 and Y500

Parts and Components

Top View

The top section of the IdeaPad Y400 and Y500 contains the display, camera, microphones, Power button, speakers, keyboard, and touchpad.

Using the Touchpad

The one-piece multitouch clickpad performs the functions of a conventional mouse.

• Move the pointer: Slide a fingertip across the touchpad.
• Left-click: Press the designated left-click area.
• Right-click: Press the designated right-click area.

Press Fn + F6 to enable or disable the touchpad.

Ports and Connectors

Left-Side Components

The blue USB port supports USB 3.0.

Right-Side Components

The yellow USB port supports USB 2.0 and can charge compatible external USB devices while the computer is powered off when the required settings and power conditions are met.

Removable Module Options

Depending on the configuration, the removable module bay can contain:

The Y400 is supplied with an optical drive or dummy optical drive module. The Y500 configurations include an optical drive, dummy module, or removable graphics module.

Front Components

The front edge of the computer includes system status indicators and the memory card slot.

Bottom Components

System Status Indicators

The IdeaPad Y400 and Y500 have indicators for the following functions.

When the computer is in sleep mode, the Power indicator blinks.

Safety Instructions

Display Safety

Warning: Do not open the display panel beyond 130 degrees.

When closing the display, remove pens, cables, and other objects from the space between the keyboard and the display panel. Objects trapped in this area can damage the screen.

Cooling and Ventilation

The ventilation slots release heat generated during operation.

• Keep the ventilation slots clear.
• Do not block the cooling openings.
• Avoid placing objects against the ventilation area.

Blocked ventilation can cause the computer to overheat.

Headphone Safety

Listening through headphones at excessive volume for extended periods may damage hearing.

Use a suitable listening level.

External Device Safety

Do not connect or disconnect external device cables, other than USB cables, while the computer is powered on. This can damage the computer.

High-power external USB devices, such as an external optical drive, may require their own power adapters.

Battery Safety

Use only a battery supplied or approved by Lenovo for the computer.

Warning: An incompatible battery may ignite or explode.

Always turn off the computer and disconnect the AC adapter before removing the battery or replacing a removable module.

Before First Use

Initial Computer Setup

When starting the computer for the first time, complete the operating system configuration.

The setup process may include:

1. Accepting the end-user license agreement.
2. Configuring the Internet connection.
3. Registering the operating system.
4. Creating a user account.

Follow the instructions displayed on the computer.

Turning On the Computer

Press the Power button located above the keyboard.

The computer starts the operating system.

Keyboard and Function Key Guide

The Y400 and Y500 provide keyboard shortcuts for common functions.

To use a function-key combination, press and hold the Fn key, then press the corresponding key.

Function Key Shortcuts

Model-Specific Shortcuts

Using the Y500 Numeric Keypad

The IdeaPad Y500 includes a dedicated numeric keypad.

Press Num Lock to enable or disable numeric entry.

Turning On the Keyboard Backlight

On models equipped with a backlit keyboard:

1. Press and hold Fn.
2. Press Space.
3. Repeat the shortcut to turn off the keyboard backlight.

Using Windows 8

Start Screen and Desktop

Windows 8 includes the Start screen and the conventional Windows desktop.

To switch from the Start screen to the desktop:

1. Select the Desktop tile.
2. Alternatively, press Windows + D.

To return to the Start screen, open the charms and select Start.

The Start screen can also be accessed from the lower-left corner of the display.

Opening the Charms Bar

The charms provide access to common Windows functions.

To open the charms bar:

• Move the pointer to the upper-right or lower-right corner of the screen.
• Or press Windows + C.

Windows 8 Charms

Windows Help and Support

Press Windows + F1 to open Windows Help and Support.

It can also be accessed through the Settings charm.

Sleep Mode and Shutdown

Putting the Computer to Sleep

Sleep mode reduces power use while allowing the computer to resume operation without a complete startup.

To enter sleep mode, use one of these methods:

1. Close the display panel.
2. Press the Power button when configured for sleep.
3. Open Settings > Power > Sleep.
4. Press Fn + F1.

Wait until the Power indicator begins blinking before moving the computer.

Moving a computer equipped with a spinning hard disk drive before it enters sleep can damage the drive and cause data loss.

Waking the Computer from Sleep

Press the Power button or any key on the keyboard.

Shutting Down the Computer

1. Open the charms bar.
2. Select Settings.
3. Select Power.
4. Choose Shut down.

Shut down the computer when it will not be used for an extended period.

Connecting USB Devices

The Y400 and Y500 support external USB devices such as storage drives, printers, and other compatible peripherals.

Connecting a USB Device

1. Locate an available USB port.
2. Insert the USB Type-A connector.
3. Allow Windows to identify the device.
4. Complete driver installation if prompted.

Windows normally installs a driver automatically when a compatible device is connected for the first time.

Some devices require the manufacturer-supplied driver to be installed before connection.

Disconnecting USB Storage

Before removing a USB storage device:

1. Complete all data transfers.
2. Select Safely Remove Hardware and Eject Media in the Windows notification area.
3. Select the device.
4. Disconnect it after Windows indicates it is ready.

Always-On USB Charging

The yellow USB 2.0 port supports charging compatible external USB devices while the computer is turned off.

The USB-always-on function must be enabled in BIOS Setup.

The computer must receive power from its battery or AC adapter. If a connected device does not charge, connect the AC adapter.

Connecting Bluetooth Devices

Selected configurations include an integrated Bluetooth adapter.

Bluetooth can transfer data between the computer and compatible Bluetooth devices, including phones and other computers.

The documented communication range is up to 10 meters in open space. Actual range depends on surrounding obstacles and interference.

Enabling Bluetooth

1. Press Fn + F5 to access the wireless configuration.
2. Turn off airplane mode.
3. Enable Bluetooth.
4. Open the Bluetooth device configuration.
5. Pair the required device by following its instructions.

Bluetooth devices must be paired before transferring data.

Disable Bluetooth when it is not needed to reduce battery use.

Connecting to Wi-Fi

Enabling Wireless LAN

1. Press Fn + F5 to turn off airplane mode.
2. Alternatively, open the charms bar.
3. Select Settings > Network.
4. Set airplane mode to Off.

Connecting to a Wireless Network

1. Open the wireless network list.
2. Select the required network.
3. Click Connect.
4. Enter the network security key or passphrase when prompted.
5. Complete the connection.

After wireless communication is enabled, Windows scans for available networks automatically.

Using the Memory Card Reader

The integrated memory card reader supports several memory card formats.

Supported Memory Cards

Only one memory card should be inserted at a time.

The reader does not support SDIO devices.

Inserting a Memory Card

1. Push the dummy card inward until it clicks.
2. Remove the dummy card carefully.
3. Insert the compatible memory card.
4. Push the memory card inward until it clicks into position.

Keep the dummy card for use when the slot is empty. It helps prevent dust and debris from entering the slot.

Removing a Memory Card

1. Use the Windows Safely Remove Hardware and Eject Media utility.
2. Push the memory card inward until it clicks.
3. Gently pull out the card.

Connecting External Displays

The computer includes VGA and HDMI connections.

VGA Connection

Connect a compatible external monitor or projector to the VGA port.

HDMI Connection

Connect the computer to an HDMI-compatible television or display using the HDMI port.

Selecting the Display Output

Press Fn + F3 to open the display selection interface.

Select the required display arrangement.

Lenovo Novo Button

The Novo button is located on the left side of the computer.

It provides access to recovery and startup configuration functions when the computer is powered off.

Novo Button Functions

Opening the Novo Button Menu

1. Shut down the computer.
2. Press the Novo button.
3. Select the required function from the menu.

BIOS Setup Instructions

The BIOS Setup Utility allows configuration of computer hardware, startup devices, security, and other system preferences.

Entering BIOS Setup

1. Shut down the computer.
2. Press the Novo button.
3. Select BIOS Setup.

Changing Boot Mode

The computer supports two boot modes:

To change boot mode:

1. Enter BIOS Setup.
2. Open the Boot menu.
3. Locate the Boot Mode setting.
4. Select UEFI or Legacy Support as required.
5. Save the configuration.

The default boot mode is UEFI.

For the installation of a legacy Windows operating system released before Windows 8, the guide instructs users to change the boot mode to Legacy Support.

Changing Boot Device Priority

1. Enter BIOS Setup.
2. Open the Boot menu.
3. Locate Boot Device Priority.
4. Confirm that the intended startup device is included and enabled.
5. Set the required startup priority.
6. Save the changes.

Selecting a Boot Device Using Novo

1. Turn off the computer.
2. Press the Novo button.
3. Select Boot Menu.
4. Choose the preferred boot device.

Lenovo OneKey Recovery System

The Lenovo OneKey Recovery system provides backup and system restoration functions.

It can create an image backup of the system partition and restore the computer to a saved backup or its original factory system state.

How OneKey Recovery Works

The computer includes a hidden recovery partition that stores system recovery data and OneKey Recovery program files.

Because this partition uses storage space, the available disk capacity may be lower than the advertised capacity of the installed drive.

Backing Up the System Partition

1. Start Windows normally.
2. Press the Novo button to open Lenovo OneKey Recovery.
3. Select System Backup.
4. Choose a backup location.
5. Click Next.
6. Allow the backup process to complete.

Backups can be stored on the local hard disk or an external storage device.

Important: Remove the removable HDD before starting OneKey Recovery. Otherwise, data on the removable HDD may be lost.

System backup is available when Windows can start normally.

Restoring the System Partition

1. Open Lenovo OneKey Recovery using the Novo button.
2. Select System Recovery.
3. Allow the computer to restart into the recovery environment.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions.
5. Choose the original system state or a previously created backup point.

Warning: System recovery is irreversible. Important files on the system partition must be backed up before beginning recovery.

Keep the AC adapter connected throughout the recovery process.

Starting OneKey Recovery When Windows Cannot Start

1. Shut down the computer.
2. Press the Novo button.
3. From the Novo menu, select Lenovo OneKey Recovery.
4. Press Enter.
5. Follow the recovery instructions.

Restoring the Factory System

Factory recovery returns the system partition to its original state.

This function is intended for situations where the operating system fails to start or the system needs to be restored.

Back up important personal files before factory recovery.

Device Drivers and Preinstalled Software

Finding Preinstalled Software

Lenovo preinstalled software installation files are stored on the D partition of the hard disk.

If an application needs to be reinstalled, locate its installation program on that partition.

Finding Device Drivers

Drivers for the installed hardware may also be stored on the D partition.

Drivers can be obtained from Lenovo Support at:

https://support.lenovo.com

Restoring Preinstalled Software

1. Open the D partition.
2. Locate the required installation package.
3. Run the installation program.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Maintenance and Handling

Ventilation

Keep the ventilation slots unobstructed during operation.

The vents release heat from internal components and must remain clear to prevent overheating.

Moving the Computer

Before moving the computer, wait until sleep mode has fully activated.

A blinking Power indicator confirms sleep mode.

Moving the computer while a mechanical hard disk is still spinning may damage the drive and cause loss of data.

USB Storage Care

Always complete data transfers and safely eject USB storage devices before disconnecting them.

Memory Card Care

Use the Windows safe-removal function before removing memory cards.

Keep the dummy card in the memory card reader when the slot is not in use.

Battery Replacement Instructions

The Y400 and Y500 have removable batteries secured by manual and spring-loaded latches.

Removing the Battery

1. Turn off the computer.
2. Disconnect the AC adapter.
3. Disconnect all external cables.
4. Close the display panel.
5. Turn the computer over.
6. Move the manual battery latch to its unlocked position.
7. Hold the spring-loaded latch in its unlocked position.
8. Remove the battery pack.

Installing a Replacement Battery

1. Insert the fully charged compatible battery into the battery compartment.
2. Slide the manual battery latch into the locked position.
3. Turn the computer upright.
4. Reconnect the AC adapter and cables.

Warning: Use only a Lenovo-compatible battery approved for the computer. An unsuitable battery may ignite or explode.

Replacing the Removable Module

The Y400 and Y500 support replaceable modules in the side module compartment.

The replacement instructions apply to both models.

Removing a Module

1. Shut down the computer.
2. Disconnect the AC adapter and external cables.
3. Remove the battery.
4. Move the removable module latch in the indicated unlocking direction.
5. Hold the spring-loaded module latch in its unlocked position.
6. Gently pull the removable module out of the compartment.

Installing a Removable DVD Burner

1. Align the DVD Burner module with the removable module compartment.
2. Gently push the module into the compartment.
3. Move the module lock into the locked position.
4. Reinstall the battery.

Customer Replaceable Units

Troubleshooting Guide

Display and Startup Problems

Nothing Appears on the Screen

1. Check that the battery is installed correctly.
2. Confirm that the AC adapter is connected.
3. Check that the electrical outlet works.
4. Press the Power button.
5. Verify correct memory installation.

If these checks are satisfactory and the computer still does not display anything, the computer requires service.

White Cursor on a Blank Screen

Use Lenovo OneKey Recovery to restore a backup or the original factory system.

If the white cursor remains after recovery, contact an authorized service provider.

Display Becomes Blank During Operation

The screen saver or power management may have activated.

Try the following:

1. Touch the touchpad.
2. Press any keyboard key.
3. Press the Power button.
4. Press Fn + F2 to check whether the LCD backlight is turned off.

Screen Is Unreadable or Distorted

Check that the display device driver is installed correctly.

Confirm that the resolution, color quality, and monitor type settings are correct.

Sleep Mode Troubleshooting

Critical Low-Battery Error

If the critical low-battery message appears and the computer turns off, battery power is insufficient.

Connect the AC adapter or install a fully charged compatible battery.

Computer Enters Sleep Immediately After Startup

Check that:

• The battery is charged.
• The operating temperature is within the permitted range.

If both conditions are satisfactory, the computer may require service.

Computer Does Not Resume from Sleep

1. Connect the AC adapter.
2. Press any key or the Power button.
3. If the system remains unresponsive, press and hold the Power button for at least four seconds.
4. If the computer still does not reset, disconnect the AC adapter and remove the battery.

Unsaved data may be lost when resetting the computer.

Audio Troubleshooting

No Sound from the Speakers

Check the following:

• Mute is turned off.
• Headphones are disconnected.
• The computer speakers are selected as the audio playback device.

Sound volume can be adjusted using Fn + Left Arrow and Fn + Right Arrow.

Battery Troubleshooting

Battery Charge Indicator Is Inaccurate

If the computer shuts down before the battery indicator shows empty, or continues operating after the indicator reports empty, discharge and recharge the battery.

Battery Operating Time Is Short

Discharge and recharge the battery.

Computer Does Not Work with a Fully Charged Battery

The battery surge protector may be active.

1. Turn off the computer.
2. Leave it powered off for one minute.
3. Turn it on again.

Hard Disk Troubleshooting

Hard Disk Drive Does Not Work

1. Open BIOS Setup.
2. Select the Boot menu.
3. Check Boot Device Priority.
4. Confirm that the hard disk drive is included correctly.

OneKey Recovery Troubleshooting

System Backup Cannot Be Created

Possible causes include:

• Windows is not running.
• There is insufficient free space for the backup.

Close unnecessary applications, free storage space, or select another backup destination.

Backup Process Fails

1. Close all open programs.
2. Restart the backup process.
3. Check the destination storage device.
4. Choose another backup location if necessary.

Factory Recovery Fails

Factory restoration may fail when the system partition has been modified.

Changes to partition size or drive capacity can interfere with the OneKey Recovery process.

Other Troubleshooting

Computer Does Not Respond

1. Hold the Power button for at least four seconds.
2. If the computer remains unresponsive, disconnect the AC adapter.
3. Remove the battery.

If the computer freezes while entering sleep during a communication operation, disable the sleep timer while working on the network.

Computer Does Not Boot from the Required Device

1. Enter BIOS Setup.
2. Open the Boot menu.
3. Confirm that the required device is included in Boot Device Priority.
4. Check that the device is enabled.
5. Select the device through the Novo Boot Menu if necessary.

External Device Does Not Work

High-power USB devices may require their own external power supply.

Use the external device’s power adapter when required.

Do not connect or disconnect non-USB external device cables while the computer is running.

BIOS Password Problems

Forgotten User Password

Contact the system administrator to reset the user password.

Forgotten Hard Disk Password

A Lenovo authorized service provider cannot reset a forgotten hard disk password or recover the protected data.

The hard disk drive must be replaced through an authorized service provider or Lenovo representative.

Proof of purchase is required, and parts and service fees apply.

Forgotten Administrator Password

A forgotten administrator password cannot be reset by an authorized service provider.

The system board must be replaced through Lenovo-authorized service.

Proof of purchase is required, and applicable service charges apply.

Warranty Information

Warranty coverage for the Lenovo IdeaPad Y400 and Y500 is governed by the Lenovo Limited Warranty provided with the computer.

The applicable warranty period and available service type are stated in the Lenovo limited warranty flyer supplied with the product.

The warranty documentation should be reviewed before requesting repair or replacement service.

Customer Support Information

Lenovo provides technical support, driver downloads, and service information.

For assistance with hardware problems, warranty claims, or authorized repairs, refer to the Lenovo Safety and General Information Guide and Lenovo Support resources.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I enter BIOS on the Lenovo IdeaPad Y400 or Y500?

Shut down the computer and press the Novo button on the left side. Select BIOS Setup from the Novo menu.

2. How do I restore the IdeaPad Y400 or Y500 to factory settings?

Press the Novo button and open Lenovo OneKey Recovery. Select System Recovery and follow the instructions to restore the original system state. Back up important data first because recovery is irreversible.

3. How do I turn on Wi-Fi on the IdeaPad Y400 or Y500?

Press Fn + F5 to turn off airplane mode, or open Settings from the Windows 8 charms bar and disable airplane mode. Select the required wireless network and connect.

4. How do I turn on the keyboard backlight?

On configurations with a backlit keyboard, press Fn + Space to turn the keyboard backlight on or off.

5. How do I replace the IdeaPad Y400 or Y500 battery?

Shut down the computer, disconnect power, and turn it over. Unlock the manual battery latch, hold the spring-loaded latch open, and remove the battery. Install the compatible replacement and secure the latch.

6. How do I remove the optical drive from the IdeaPad Y400 or Y500?

Turn off the computer, disconnect power, and remove the battery. Unlock the removable module latches and gently pull the optical drive module out of its compartment.

7. What should I do if my IdeaPad Y400 or Y500 screen stays black?

Check battery and AC power, confirm the computer is turned on, press Fn + Up Arrow to increase brightness, and press Fn + F2 to check the LCD backlight. If the screen remains blank, the computer may require service.