U31-70 Laptop

Lenovo U31-70 Laptop

The Lenovo U31-70 is a notebook computer equipped with an LED-backlit display, integrated camera, built-in microphone, keyboard, touchpad, and wired and wireless connectivity. It includes USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 connections, HDMI output, an RJ-45 Ethernet port, a memory card reader, and a combined audio jack.

The computer provides keyboard hotkeys for adjusting volume, screen brightness, wireless communication, and display output. It also includes a Novo button for accessing BIOS Setup, the Boot Menu, and Lenovo OneKey Recovery.

Product Overview

The Lenovo U31-70 provides standard notebook functions through its keyboard, touchpad, and built-in display. The computer supports Internet access through wireless LAN or a wired Ethernet connection and can connect to compatible external monitors using HDMI.

Its integrated camera and microphone support video communication, while the built-in speakers and combination audio jack provide audio output.

The computer also supports Lenovo OneKey Recovery, which allows the system partition to be backed up and restored when the recovery software is available.

Main Features

• LED-backlit computer display.
• Integrated camera for video communication.
• Built-in microphone for voice recording and calls.
• Wireless LAN antennas.
• Keyboard with function keys and hotkeys.
• Keyboard backlight on selected configurations.
• Touchpad with left and right mouse-button functions.
• USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 connections.
• HDMI connection for external displays.
• RJ-45 Ethernet connector.
• SD, SDHC, SDXC, and MMC memory card support.
• Combination audio jack.
• USB charging support.
• Battery and power status indicators.
• Novo button for startup and recovery functions.
• UEFI and Legacy Support boot modes.
• Lenovo OneKey Recovery System.
• Windows 8.1 operating system instructions.

Technical Specifications

General Specifications

Ports and Connectivity

Battery and Power Features

Parts and Components

The Lenovo U31-70 includes components on the display assembly, keyboard base, left side, right side, and bottom panel.

Top Components

Integrated Camera

The camera supports video communication.

It can be used with compatible applications that require video input.

Built-In Microphone

The integrated microphone captures audio for:

• Video conferencing.
• Voice narration.
• Audio recording.

Wireless LAN Antennas

The built-in antennas send and receive wireless radio signals for the computer’s wireless network connection.

Power Button

Press the Power button to turn on the computer.

While the computer is operating, pressing the Power button can also place it into sleep mode.

Ventilation Slots

The ventilation slots allow heat to escape from internal components.

Important: Keep the ventilation openings unobstructed. Blocked airflow can cause the computer to overheat.

Touchpad

The touchpad controls the on-screen pointer and functions like a conventional mouse.

• Sliding a fingertip across the touchpad moves the pointer.
• The left side performs the function of a mouse’s left button.
• The right side performs the function of a mouse’s right button.

Press F6 to enable or disable the touchpad.

Left-Side Ports and Connectors

The left side contains the security slot, power connector, USB 2.0 connection, memory card reader, audio jack, and status indicators.

Left-Side Component Guide

Kensington Mini Security Slot

The security slot supports a Kensington MiniSaver Mobile lock or another compatible security cable.

Use a lock with the Cleat locking mechanism.

Locks using the T-Bar mechanism are not compatible with this slot.

AC Power Adapter Jack

Connect the computer’s AC power adapter to this connector.

USB 2.0 Port

The USB 2.0 connection supports compatible USB devices.

It also supports charging connected USB devices while the computer is operating.

The designated charging-enabled USB port can provide power when the computer is shut down, provided the laptop battery has more than 20% charge.

Memory Card Slot

The memory card reader accepts compatible SD and MultiMediaCard storage devices.

Combo Audio Jack

The combination audio connector supports compatible headsets.

Important: Conventional standalone microphones are not supported through this jack.

The recording function may also be unavailable with certain third-party headsets because of differences in audio connector standards.

Right-Side Ports and Connectors

Novo Button

The Novo button provides access to recovery and firmware functions when the computer is turned off.

It can open:

• Lenovo OneKey Recovery System.
• BIOS Setup Utility.
• Boot Menu.

The recessed button can be pressed gently using the end of an unfolded paper clip or a similar object without a sharp tip.

USB 3.0 Port

The USB 3.0 connector supports compatible USB accessories and data devices.

It also supports USB device charging while the computer is on.

Ethernet Port

The RJ-45 connector allows the computer to connect to a wired Ethernet network.

HDMI Port

The HDMI connector connects the notebook to compatible equipment with an HDMI input, such as a television or external monitor.

Bottom Components

Ventilation Louvers

Ventilation openings on the underside allow cooling air to enter the computer.

Do not cover these openings during operation.

Speakers

The notebook includes speakers on the underside for audio playback.

Battery and Power Status Indicators

The Lenovo U31-70 includes battery and power status lights to show charging and operating conditions.

Battery Status Indicator

Power Status Indicator

Understanding the Battery Lights

A fast-blinking amber battery light indicates that the remaining charge is below 5%.

A slowly blinking amber light indicates charging while the battery is below the 20% threshold.

When the charge reaches 20%, the indicator changes to slowly blinking white. The light stops blinking at 80%, although charging continues until the battery is fully charged.

Safety Instructions

Before using the Lenovo U31-70, read the supplied Lenovo Safety and General Information Guide.

Display Safety

Before closing the laptop, make sure no pens or other objects remain between the keyboard and display.

Objects trapped between the two surfaces can damage the display panel.

Ventilation Safety

Keep the ventilation slots clear during use.

Blocked cooling openings can cause overheating.

USB Device Safety

Some external USB devices require their own power supply.

If a USB accessory uses a power cord, connect it to its power source before attaching it to the computer.

This helps prevent device recognition problems.

External Device Connection Safety

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

Doing so can damage the computer.

Initial Setup Instructions

First-Time Windows Setup

When the computer is started for the first time, Windows may require initial configuration.

The setup process can include:

• Accepting the end-user license agreement.
• Configuring the Internet connection.
• Registering the operating system.
• Creating a user account.

Follow the instructions displayed on the computer to complete setup.

Turning On the Computer

Press the Power button to start the laptop.

Wait for Windows to load before opening applications.

Using Windows 8.1

Windows 8.1 includes two primary interfaces:

• Start screen.
• Windows desktop.

Switching from the Start Screen to the Desktop

Use either method:

1. Select the Desktop tile on the Start screen.
2. Press Windows + D.

Switching from the Desktop to the Start Screen

Use either method:

1. Open the Charms bar and select Start.
2. Move the pointer to the lower-left corner and select the Start button.

Windows 8.1 Charms Bar

The Charms bar provides access to common Windows functions.

Opening the Charms Bar

Use either method:

• Move the pointer to the upper-right or lower-right corner.
• Press Windows + C.

Charms and Their Functions

Using the Search Charm

The Search charm can locate applications, files, and settings.

Using the Share Charm

The Share charm allows supported applications to send links, photographs, and other content.

Using the Devices Charm

The Devices charm provides access to connected devices and functions such as printing and projecting.

Using the Settings Charm

The Settings charm provides controls for system functions, including volume, shutdown, and Control Panel access.

Keyboard Shortcuts

The keyboard includes function-key combinations and dedicated hotkeys.

Fn Key Combinations

Hold the Fn key while pressing the required key.

Function Key Hotkeys

Hotkey Mode Settings

By default, the keyboard’s special hotkey functions can be activated by pressing the corresponding function key.

Hotkey Mode can be changed through BIOS.

Disabling Hotkey Mode

1. Shut down the computer.
2. Press the Novo button.
3. Select BIOS Setup.
4. Open the Configuration menu.
5. Change HotKey Mode from Enabled to Disabled.
6. Open the Exit menu.
7. Select Exit Saving Changes.

When Hotkey Mode is disabled, hold Fn while pressing the appropriate function key to activate its special function.

Using the Touchpad

The touchpad provides pointer movement and mouse-button functions.

Moving the Pointer

1. Place a fingertip on the touchpad.
2. Slide the fingertip in the desired direction.
3. The pointer moves accordingly.

Touchpad Buttons

The left and right sections of the touchpad provide the same basic functions as the left and right buttons of a conventional mouse.

Enabling or Disabling the Touchpad

Press F6.

Connecting USB Devices

The computer supports compatible USB devices through its USB connections.

Connecting a USB Device

1. Locate an available USB port.
2. Connect the device.
3. Allow Windows to recognize it.
4. Follow any instructions displayed by Windows.

When a USB device is connected to a particular port for the first time, Windows normally installs its driver automatically.

After installation, the device can usually be disconnected and reconnected without repeating the installation.

Some accessories require their drivers to be installed before they are connected.

Removing a USB Storage Device

Before disconnecting USB storage:

1. Complete any file transfers.
2. Click Safely Remove Hardware and Eject Media in the Windows notification area.
3. Select the storage device.
4. Wait for the removal confirmation.
5. Disconnect the device.

USB Devices with External Power

If the USB accessory uses its own power cord, connect the accessory to its power supply before connecting it to the laptop.

Otherwise, the device may not be recognized.

Charging External Devices Through USB

The laptop supports charging compatible USB accessories through designated USB connections.

Charging While the Computer Is On

Supported USB ports provide charging functionality while the computer is operating.

Charging While the Computer Is Shut Down

The designated charging-enabled USB 2.0 port can charge an external device while the laptop is off when the laptop battery has more than 20% charge.

Using Memory Cards

The card reader supports the following removable storage formats.

Supported Memory Cards

The reader supports one memory card at a time.

It does not support SDIO devices, such as SDIO Bluetooth cards.

Inserting a Memory Card

1. Locate the memory card slot.
2. Insert the card into the slot.
3. Continue until the card reaches the bottom of the slot.

Removing a Memory Card

1. Open Safely Remove Hardware and Eject Media in Windows.
2. Disable or eject the memory card.
3. Gently pull the card out of the slot.

Using the Windows removal function helps prevent data corruption.

Connecting an Ethernet Cable

The Lenovo U31-70 includes an RJ-45 Ethernet connector for wired networking.

Ethernet Connection Instructions

1. Locate the RJ-45 connector on the right side.
2. Hold the Ethernet cable connector.
3. Gently press down the port’s protective cover using the cable connector.
4. Insert the connector into the RJ-45 port.
5. Configure the network according to the Internet service provider’s instructions.

Connecting an External Display

The HDMI port allows the notebook to connect to compatible monitors and televisions.

Connecting Through HDMI

1. Connect a compatible HDMI cable to the notebook.
2. Connect the other end to the display.
3. Turn on the display.
4. Press F10 to open the display selection function.
5. Select the preferred display output.

Connecting to Wi-Fi

The computer uses its wireless LAN adapter to connect to compatible wireless networks.

Enabling Wireless Networking

1. Press F7 to disable Airplane Mode.
2. Open the Charms bar.
3. Select Settings.
4. Open the network configuration page.
5. Confirm that the Wi-Fi switch is set to On.

Connecting to a Wireless Network

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

If the network is protected, obtain the security key from the network administrator or Internet service provider.

Sleep Mode and Shutdown

Putting the Laptop to Sleep

Sleep mode reduces power usage while allowing the computer to resume without repeating the complete startup process.

To enter sleep:

• Close the display lid.
• Press the Power button.
• Open the Charms bar and select Settings > Power > Sleep.

Important: Wait until the power indicator begins blinking before moving the laptop. Moving the computer while its hard disk is spinning can cause disk damage and data loss.

Waking from Sleep Mode

Use either method:

• Press any key on the keyboard.
• Press the Power button.

Shutting Down the Computer

When the laptop will not be used for an extended period, shut it down.

Windows 8.1 provides several methods.

Method 1: Charms Bar

1. Open the Charms bar.
2. Select Settings > Power > Shut down.

Method 2: Start Button

1. Right-click the Start button.
2. Select Shut down or sign out.
3. Click Shut down.

Method 3: Start Screen

Select the power control in the upper-right corner of the Start screen, then choose Shut down.

Novo Button and BIOS Setup

The Novo button opens firmware and recovery functions before the operating system starts.

Opening the Novo Button Menu

1. Shut down the computer.
2. Locate the Novo button on the right side.
3. Gently press the recessed button using the tip of an unfolded paper clip or another non-sharp object.
4. Wait for the Novo Button Menu.

Novo Button Menu Options

Entering BIOS

1. Turn off the computer.
2. Press the Novo button.
3. Select BIOS Setup.

Changing the Boot Mode

The Lenovo U31-70 supports two boot modes.

To change the boot mode:

1. Open BIOS Setup using the Novo button.
2. Select the Boot menu.
3. Find the boot mode setting.
4. Choose UEFI or Legacy Support.

For installation of legacy operating systems predating Windows 8, the guide directs users to change the boot mode to Legacy Support.

Lenovo OneKey Recovery System

Lenovo OneKey Recovery provides functions for backing up and restoring the system partition.

The recovery software uses a hidden storage partition containing system image and recovery program files.

Because this hidden partition occupies disk space, the available storage shown by Windows may be lower than the total stated drive capacity.

OneKey Recovery is not available on configurations preinstalled with GNU/Linux.

Backing Up the System Partition

1. Start Windows.
2. Press the Novo button or double-click the OneKey Recovery icon.
3. Select System Backup.
4. Choose a backup location.
5. Click Next to begin.

The backup image can be saved to a local storage location or an external storage device.

Backup Precautions

• Remove removable hard disk drives before starting OneKey Recovery to avoid possible data loss from those drives.
• Allow sufficient time for the backup.
• The backup function requires Windows to start normally.

Restoring the System from Windows

1. Start Lenovo OneKey Recovery.
2. Select System Recovery.
3. Allow the computer to restart into the recovery environment.
4. Follow the instructions.
5. Select factory restoration or a previously created backup point.

Warning: System recovery is irreversible. Back up all important information from the system partition before starting.

Keep the AC power adapter connected throughout recovery.

Restoring When Windows Cannot Start

1. Shut down the computer.
2. Press the Novo button.
3. Select System Recovery.
4. Press Enter.
5. Follow the recovery instructions.

Factory Recovery and Backup Recovery

Troubleshooting a Failed OneKey Backup

If a backup starts but fails before completion:

1. Close all open programs.
2. Restart the backup process.
3. If it fails again, check whether the destination storage device is damaged.
4. Select another backup location.
5. Try again.

Troubleshooting Guide

The following troubleshooting procedures cover the display, battery, sleep mode, audio, external devices, and operating system problems.

Common Problems and Solutions

Laptop Turns On but Screen Is Blank

1. Confirm that the AC adapter is connected properly.
2. Check that the power cord is plugged into a working outlet.
3. Press the Power button again to confirm the computer is on.

If the screen remains blank despite correct power connections, have the computer serviced.

White Cursor Appears on a Blank Screen

If the computer starts but only a white cursor appears:

1. Open Lenovo OneKey Recovery.
2. Restore backed-up files or the original factory system contents.
3. Restart the laptop.

If the white cursor remains after recovery, have the computer serviced.

Screen Goes Blank During Operation

The screen saver or power management settings may have turned off the display.

Try the following:

1. Press any key on the keyboard.
2. Press the Power button.
3. Press F9 to check whether LCD backlighting has been turned off.

Blank or Dark Display

1. Press F12 to increase screen brightness.
2. If the Power indicator is blinking, press the Power button to wake the computer.
3. Press F9 to turn on the LCD backlight.

If the screen remains blank, check the display configuration or obtain service.

Display Is Distorted or Unreadable

Check that:

• The screen resolution is configured correctly.
• Color quality settings are correct.
• The selected monitor type is appropriate.

Incorrect Characters Appear on Screen

Confirm that Windows and the installed applications are configured correctly.

If the software is correctly installed and the problem continues, have the computer serviced.

No Sound from Speakers

If the speakers do not produce sound even when the volume is increased:

1. Confirm that Mute is disabled.
2. Check whether anything is connected to the combination audio jack.
3. Confirm that the built-in speakers are selected as the playback device.

Critical Low-Battery Error

If a low-battery warning appears and the laptop shuts down immediately, connect the AC power adapter.

Computer Enters Sleep Immediately After Startup

Check that:

1. The battery is charged.
2. The operating temperature is within the acceptable range.

If both conditions are met and the problem continues, have the laptop serviced.

Computer Does Not Wake from Sleep

1. Connect the AC power adapter.
2. Press the Power button.

If the system remains unresponsive, press and hold the Power button for at least five seconds.

Attention: Forcing a shutdown can cause unsaved data to be lost.

If the computer still cannot be reset, disconnect the AC adapter.

Battery Level Appears Incorrect

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

Laptop Does Not Respond

1. Press and hold the Power button for five seconds or longer.
2. If it remains unresponsive, disconnect the AC adapter.

The computer may also become locked when it enters sleep mode during a network communication operation.

Disable the sleep timer when performing communication tasks that should not be interrupted.

External Device Does Not Work

Check the following:

• Non-USB external device cables should not be connected or disconnected while the laptop is powered on.
• High-power USB accessories may require their own external power adapter.

A device without sufficient power may not be recognized and can cause the computer to shut down.

Drivers and Preinstalled Software

Lenovo supplies device drivers and preinstalled software through the computer’s storage and support resources.

Finding Preinstalled Software

Installation programs for Lenovo’s preinstalled desktop software can be located on the D: partition of the hard disk.

If an installer is unavailable there, it can be obtained through Lenovo Support.

Finding Device Drivers

For configurations preinstalled with Windows, the required device drivers are supplied on the D: partition.

Driver downloads are also available through Lenovo’s support website.

Maintenance Instructions

Ventilation Maintenance

Keep all ventilation openings unobstructed to allow internal heat to escape.

USB Storage Maintenance

Before disconnecting USB storage devices, use Windows Safely Remove Hardware and Eject Media.

This helps reduce the risk of data corruption.

Memory Card Care

• Insert only one card at a time.
• Use a supported SD, SDHC, SDXC, or MMC card.
• Eject the card through Windows before removing it.
• Do not use SDIO devices with the card reader.

Display Protection

Before closing the laptop, remove loose objects from the keyboard area to avoid damaging the screen.

System Backup

Use Lenovo OneKey Recovery to create a system partition backup while Windows is operating normally.

A saved backup can be used when restoring the system.

Warranty Information

Lenovo provides warranty information through its support website.

The warranty status for the U31-70 can be checked at: https://support.lenovo.com/warrantystatus

The applicable Safety and General Information Guide contains additional safety and service information.

Customer Support Information

Lenovo provides documentation, drivers, warranty information, and product assistance.

Official Support Resources

For customer support contact instructions, refer to the Getting Help and Service section in the Lenovo Safety and General Information Guide supplied with the computer.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I enter BIOS on the Lenovo U31-70?

Shut down the laptop and press the Novo button on the right side. Select BIOS Setup from the Novo Button Menu.

2. How do I reset the Lenovo U31-70 when it freezes?

Press and hold the Power button for at least five seconds. If the computer remains unresponsive, disconnect the AC power adapter. Unsaved work may be lost during a forced shutdown.

3. How do I turn on Wi-Fi on the Lenovo U31-70?

Press F7 to disable Airplane Mode. Open the Charms bar, select Settings, and open network configuration. Turn on Wi-Fi, select the required network, and enter the password if requested.

4. What do the Lenovo U31-70 battery indicator lights mean?

Solid white indicates more than 20% charge, solid amber indicates 5%–20%, and fast-blinking amber indicates less than 5%. Slow-blinking amber or white indicates charging, with the color depending on the charge level.

5. How do I restore the Lenovo U31-70 to factory settings?

Shut down the computer, press the Novo button, and select System Recovery. Follow the OneKey Recovery instructions to restore the system partition to its factory state. Back up important files before starting because recovery is irreversible.

6. How do I turn on the Lenovo U31-70 keyboard backlight?

On configurations with a backlit keyboard, press Fn + Space to adjust the keyboard illumination.

7. Why does my Lenovo U31-70 screen stay black?

Check the AC power connection, press F12 to increase brightness, and use F9 to confirm that LCD backlighting is enabled. If the computer is sleeping, press the Power button. Continued display problems may require service.

8. Where can I download Lenovo U31-70 drivers?

Drivers for Windows-preinstalled configurations can be found on the D: partition or through Lenovo Support.