Windows – Can’t run Hyper-V after changing to SSD

Removing and readding the Hyper-V role solved the issue (Win + r, optionalfeatures).

I was able to do this. It turns out Lenovo makes a utility specifically for secure erasing drives that is compatible with the T520 (and many other models). It looks like this utility is the more modern replacement for the BIOS extension that is available for older models.

So if you have a ThinkPad newer than circa 2011, check the "Storage" subsection under the drivers/downloads area for your model ThinkPad at the Lenovo web site.

For me, with the T520, it was the adorably Engrish Drive Erase Utility for the Resetting the Cryptographic Key and the Erasing the Solid State Drive.

1. Download the above ISO (check the supported model list to make sure it is for your ThinkPad first; search for your model on their web site if it isn't).
2. Burn it to a CD or DVD (or ThumbDrive, use UNetbootin or Rufus - although I have not tried this and have run into issues in the past with Lenovo ISO's that use the Nero Bootloader, dunno about this one though.)
3. Power off laptop, install the drive you want to erase.
4. Boot laptop with CD/DVD in. If it doesn't boot automatically hammer on F12 when the machine turns on to display the boot menu and choose the CD-ROM drive from there.
5. Follow the instructions on the screen for erasing the drive and resetting the key. Takes about 5 minutes tops.
6. Label and save the disc you just burned, it will come in handy if you have to do this again.
7. You're all done. Power off machine and remove the drive, then tell all your friends the story. They'll love it. Great conversation starter at parties as well.

The Lenovo utility accomplishes the unfreeze by generating some sort of key you have to write down, then rebooting the machine (presumably doing some magic to power cycle the SATA device without re-freezing it) and asking you for the key again.

Confirmed working with Crucial M4 and Samsung 840 EVO.

Note that you may wish to ensure that you have the latest BIOS update for your PC installed (as well as the latest firmware for your SSD drives). BIOS updates can also be found on the Lenovo site in the section for your model laptop.

I cannot explain why I am able to hotplug the M4 but not the 840. It does not really matter now but I'd still be interested to know just for academic reasons.