Ejecting devices incorrectly can corrupt data.
Thomas Northcut/Photodisc/Getty Images
ThinkPad laptops are in Lenovo's customizable "professional-grade" line. For older laptops that came with Windows 2000, Windows XP or Vista, removing external devices such as hard drives required multiple steps. If you unplugged an external hard drive or USB device without completing those steps, the ThinkPad would display an error message. Lenovo developed the EasyEject Utility program for Windows 2000, XP, and Vista to make ejecting devices require only one step.
How EasyEject Utility Works
Installing the EasyEject Utility places an icon on your desktop and in your Programs menu. Double-clicking the icon on your desktop brings up a list of currently connected external devices. Select one and it will eject completely and safely.
Who Needs EasyEject Utility?
All ThinkPad computers running Windows 2000, Windows XP Home or Professional, and Windows Vista are candidates for EasyEject Utility. The utility is not necessary to run the computer, however, and its only function is to speed up ejecting external devices. For users who rarely use external devices or don't mind the couple of extra steps to eject them, it's unnecessary.
Upgrading EasyEject Utility
Lenovo maintains current upgrades of EasyEject Utility on its website (link in Resources). Install the latest edition for your operating system without deleting the old one; the upgrade automatically overwrites the old files.
Uninstalling EasyEject Utility
Uninstalling EasyEject Utility is simple. Reasons for uninstall might include needing space on your hard drive, never using the program, or wanting to completely uninstall and reinstall to fix problems. Open Control Panel, then Add/Remove Programs, select "EasyEject Utility," and press "Uninstall" and follow the on-screen instructions.
Photo Credits
- Thomas Northcut/Photodisc/Getty Images
