Question:

“I have a Lenovo Ideapad 3 15alc6 that was previously running Windows 11, where I enabled the battery charge limit feature through Lenovo Vantage. After switching to Linux, I’m unable to turn off this setting. Could you advise on whether it’s possible to resolve this issue via BIOS settings, or through any method that doesn’t involve reinstalling the operating system or manually resetting the CMOS?”

Answer:

If you’ve recently transitioned from Windows 11 to Linux on your Lenovo Ideapad 3 15alc6 and are facing difficulties with a previously set battery charge limit, you’re not alone. This is a common concern among users who have utilized the Lenovo Vantage software to set battery thresholds and are seeking solutions that don’t involve a fresh OS installation or manual CMOS reset.

Understanding the Problem

The battery charge limit feature is designed to extend the battery’s lifespan by preventing it from charging beyond a certain percentage. While this is beneficial in the long run, it can be inconvenient if the setting persists after changing operating systems, as the Lenovo Vantage software is not available on Linux.

Exploring BIOS Solutions

The first place to look for a solution is the BIOS settings. Some Lenovo laptops include options to manage battery thresholds within the BIOS. To access these settings, reboot your laptop and enter the BIOS setup by pressing the appropriate key during startup. Navigate through the power settings or battery options to see if there is an option to disable the battery charge limit.

Linux-Based Solutions

If the BIOS doesn’t offer a solution, you can turn to Linux-based tools and commands. For instance, the `tp_smapi` kernel module is known to help manage battery settings on ThinkPad laptops, but it may not support the Ideapad series. However, there are alternative methods available:

1.

ACPI Call

: Some users have found success using ACPI calls to set charge levels. For example, to set the charge to 100%, you can use the following command:

“` echo ‘\\_SB.PCI0.LPCB.EC0.VPC0.SBMC 5’ | sudo tee /proc/acpi/call “` To disable the conservation mode, you might use: “` echo 0 > /sys/bus/platform/drivers/ideapad_acpi/VPC2004:00/conservation_mode “` These commands interact directly with the laptop’s firmware to manage power settings.

2.

Laptop Mode Tools

: Installing `laptop-mode-tools` can help manage power settings more efficiently. This tool can be installed using the following command:

“` sudo apt-get install laptop-mode-tools “` After installation, a restart may be required to apply the changes.

3.

Gnome Extensions

: For a more user-friendly approach, Gnome extensions like ‘Ideapad Mode’ or ‘Battery Health Charging’ can provide a graphical interface to manage battery conservation mode.

Conclusion

While it may require some exploration, there are multiple avenues to address the battery charge limit issue on your Lenovo Ideapad 3 15alc6 after switching to Linux. Whether through BIOS settings, terminal commands, or Gnome extensions, you can regain control over your laptop’s battery behavior without the need for drastic measures.

Remember, while these solutions have worked for others, the effectiveness may vary based on the specific model and firmware version of your laptop. Always proceed with caution when making changes to system settings.

—