Solution 1
The following descriptions only apply to IBM PC's and notebooks. General information can be found here.
Please download the hardware maintenance manual (HMM) first. All procedures are described within the HMM along with pictures.
Maintenance manuals:
http://www.pc.ibm.com/us/cdt/hmm.html (some newer models missing)
http://www.pc.ibm.com/qtechinfo/MIGR-4UYM3F.html (english HMM for T20 T21 T22 T23 series)
http://www-6.ibm.com/jp/pc/home/manual/thinkpad.html (japanese, all models)
Solution 2
You can remove the passwords stored within IBM ThinkPad onboard EEPROM using Key Maker:
http://www.ja.olm.net/unlock/
Below are excerpts from of popular HMM's.
L40SX
Use jumper J23
CL57
connector J12
. | . .
. | . .
or use connector J13 (2-pin connector)
P70, P75
To service a computer with an active, unknown, power-on password do the following.
1. Power-off the computer and unplug the power cord.
2. Remove the system-unit cover.
3. Short the two pins 1 together.
4. With the pins shorted, power-on the computer. This erases the power-on password.
5. Remove the short after POST is finished.
N45SL
To service a computer with an active, unknown, power-on password, do the following.
1. Power-off the computer and unplug the power cord.
2. Remove the battery pack.
3. Remove the math coprocessor access panel.
4. Locate the two override pins on opposite sides of the socket.
5. Install a jumper wire between the pins.
6. Install the battery pack.
7. Power-on the computer and leave it on until the LEDs blink and the computer locks up.
8. Remove the jumper wire.
9. Press and hold the lid switch, then power-on the computer.
