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I've been working on my stepmother's computer. For some reason, she insists on using an ancient IBM Thinkpad 380XD. Despite its comically obsolete appearance, the unit is clean and runs better than many of the newer PCs I've worked on. The problem is that it emits a high-pitched whine. It's very annoying, especially in a quiet room.
This happens whenever the unit is plugged in, regardless of whether or not it is powered on. I was thinking it might have an issue with the power supply, but the computer starts up with no problem. The whine doesn't seem to effect performance, either. The machine appears to be in good working order, despite having a dead battery.
My apologies if this is posted to the wrong area. I'm assuming this is a hardware issue, since the noise is coming from inside the computer itself (back left corner to be specific). Is this the precursor to a fire/explosion? I have my doubts, b/c the unit runs much cooler than most modern laptops I've used. Even after being on all afternoon, it's barely warm. But has whined non stop since I plugged it in.
This happens whenever the unit is plugged in, regardless of whether or not it is powered on. I was thinking it might have an issue with the power supply, but the computer starts up with no problem. The whine doesn't seem to effect performance, either. The machine appears to be in good working order, despite having a dead battery.
My apologies if this is posted to the wrong area. I'm assuming this is a hardware issue, since the noise is coming from inside the computer itself (back left corner to be specific). Is this the precursor to a fire/explosion? I have my doubts, b/c the unit runs much cooler than most modern laptops I've used. Even after being on all afternoon, it's barely warm. But has whined non stop since I plugged it in.
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