Resolving NVRAM Brick Issue on Lenovo L490 After Hackintosh Attempt

Solution:

Experiencing a 'brick' after attempting to reset NVRAM on your Lenovo L490 during a Hackintosh installation can be a complex issue. Here are steps to address the problem:

1. Power Cycle the Laptop:

   • Completely shut down the laptop.
   • Remove the battery and disconnect any power source.
   • Hold down the power button for about 30 seconds to discharge any residual power.
   • Reconnect the battery and power source, then try booting the laptop again.

2. Accessing BIOS/UEFI Settings:

   • Repeatedly press the key to enter BIOS/UEFI settings (commonly F1, F2, DEL, or ESC) immediately after powering on the laptop.
   • If successful, reset the BIOS/UEFI settings to default as a precaution.

3. Clearing CMOS:

   • If BIOS access is not possible, consider clearing the CMOS to reset the BIOS settings. This may involve opening the laptop and temporarily removing the CMOS battery.

4. Creating a Bootable USB for BIOS Recovery:

   • If the above steps don't work, look for a BIOS recovery or update tool from Lenovo's official website.
   • Create a bootable USB drive with the BIOS firmware and follow the manufacturer's instructions for recovery.

5. Seeking Professional Help:

   • If you're not comfortable with opening the laptop or the issue persists, it might be best to seek professional repair services.

6. Future Precautions:

   • In future Hackintosh attempts, be cautious with firmware and NVRAM settings. Unexpected changes can lead to critical issues like this.

Visual Aids: Step-by-step guides or video tutorials on power cycling, accessing BIOS, and clearing CMOS can be helpful.

Additional Note: Resolving a bricked laptop can be challenging. It's essential to proceed cautiously to avoid further damage. If you're unsure about any step, professional assistance is advisable.