How to check the factory date of a computer
When buying a second-hand computer or needing to know how long the device has been in use, checking when the computer was manufactured is an important step. This article will introduce in detail a variety of methods to help you quickly obtain the factory date of your computer, and provide hot topics in the past 10 days as a reference.
1. Common methods to check the factory date of a computer

The following are several common query methods, applicable to Windows and Mac systems:
| method | Operation steps | Applicable system |
|---|---|---|
| BIOS/UEFI information | When booting, press specific keys (such as F2, Del) to enter the BIOS and check the date in the system information. | Windows/Mac |
| System commands | At the command prompt entersysteminfo, look for "System Installation Date" | Windows |
| Serial number query | Enter the serial number query through the brand's official website (such as Dell, HP, Lenovo, etc.) | Windows/Mac |
| Third party tools | Use CPU-Z, AIDA64 and other software to read hardware information | Windows |
2. Examples of querying the factory time of computers of different brands
| Brand | Query method | Things to note |
|---|---|---|
| Dell | The official website supports entering service tags (Service Tag) on the page. | Account registration required |
| HP | Serial number on product label + official website warranty query | Some older models require telephone consultation |
| Lenovo | Use Vantage software or official website SN query | ThinkPad series is more accurate |
| Apple | About This Mac→System Report→Hardware Overview | Internet verification required |
3. Reference for hot topics in the past 10 days (updated in 2023)
Combined with current Internet hot spots, the following are popular discussions related to computers:
| topic | heat index | Related content |
|---|---|---|
| Windows 11 23H2 update | ★★★★★ | New feature sparks compatibility discussion |
| The rise of AI PC concept | ★★★★☆ | Notebooks equipped with NPU are launched |
| DDR5 memory price cut | ★★★☆☆ | Installed cost reduced by 30% |
| Second-hand mining card identification | ★★★☆☆ | GPU-Z detection tutorial popular |
4. Precautions
1. Factory time ≠ usage time, there may be an inventory period
2. Some assembled machines do not have a unified factory date, so you need to check the motherboard/CPU date.
3. Laptop battery information (such as first use time) can assist in judgment.
4. Enterprise customized models may need to contact the OEM manufacturer for inquiries
5. Expand knowledge: How to verify the accuracy of query results?
Cross-validation can be done in the following ways:
- Compare the production weeks of main components such as motherboards, batteries, hard drives, etc. (e.g. DATE CODE of WD hard drives)
- Check the device's first network activation record (professional tools required)
- Check the start date in warranty status
Knowing how to query the factory date of a computer can not only help evaluate the value of the equipment, but also provide a reference for troubleshooting hardware faults. It is recommended to combine multiple verification methods to ensure the accuracy of the information.
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