My laptop is all better. After logging in as the local administrator, I was able to disable the Thinkvantage fingerprint software and all was right in the world.
I’ve had this machine for seven months now. It’s due to be replaced. That’s one of the nice things about my job. When a new model laptop comes in, I usually get to take one, and then my current machine goes into circulation. I’m just waiting for the new dual-core T61s to start arriving. If I really wanted another small footprint machine, I could ask for one of the X61s. But frankly, I like the horsepower of the dual core machines.