I have a Lenovo T480s running Windows 10, but its internal display no longer works. I can currently access it through RDP from a MacBook, and an HDMI-connected TV or monitor becomes usable once Windows reaches the lock screen. However, the external display shows nothing during BIOS, POST, or boot menus. I want to completely replace Windows with Ubuntu Server while minimizing the chance of losing access. I have a 32 GB USB drive, a 512 GB external drive, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and a MacBook available. What is the safest installation approach?
2 Answers
Disconnecting the damaged internal display cable is another option. The firmware may then detect that the only available display is the HDMI or USB-C monitor and send POST and setup screens there. Work carefully, disconnect power and the battery if practical, and confirm the exact cable before unplugging anything. This is worth trying before wiping Windows, since losing access to firmware settings could leave you unable to recover from a failed boot.
Before opening the laptop, try to make the external display active during startup. On some Lenovo systems, closing the lid before powering on, using the display-toggle function key, or connecting through the appropriate USB-C video output can make firmware screens appear externally. You may need to press the display-toggle key repeatedly immediately after power-on. If you can reach the firmware settings, configure the external output as the primary display and verify the boot order before starting the reinstall.
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