64-bit, 4GB for Intel T2500

[sriram00]

Hello everybody,

As I am getting conflicting results from most sources, thought I'd put my query here. I have a T60p
Intel Core Duo processor T2500 (2GHz) with 2 MB L2 cache, 667 MHz front-side bus
256MB ATI Mobility FireGL V5200 - discrete graphics chipset
Mobile Intel 945GM/GU/PM/GMS/940GML/943GML and Intel 945GT Express Processor to DRAM Controller-27A0

I read that Intel 945GM and 945PM do not support more than 3GB memory. But I also see drivers, updates and support under T60p for 64-bit versions of XP, Vista, 7 and 8.

I am just coming to terms with the fact that this 8 year old laptop is not going to last too long. Even though I want it to, Lenovo is also doing psychological warfare on my brain and heart by sending wrong parts and behaving like humans who do not understand speech to ensure I don't use it. Before hammering the final nail in its coffin, just want to check if it somehow supports 4GB and 64-bit without Frankendpading. Will get some personal closure.

In current state, it has a couple of cracks near the palmrest and is fitted with a Lenovo-sent fan that's meant for integrated graphics, when mine has discrete graphics. Things boot up and I am able to do routine things, but I don't keep it running for more than ten minutes to keep the GPU safe.

Also, if any of you have any tips on how to deal with Lenovo, suggestions are welcome. T60p or not, I can't let them get away with this.

[FryPpy]

NO - 945s chipsets can't handle 4Gb memory. There was topic on this forum where dr_st explained why this limit is happend and what can be done and price for moving this limit.

MOREOVER - T2500 is a Core Duo processor. It is uncapable for 64bit OS. Some T60 (and T60p) was shipped with T7xxx (Core 2 Duo) processors and they can do 64bit OSes (drivers on lenovo for them).

I don't know about dealing with Lenovo. In the begining i asking IBM for downgrade rights (Vista -> XP) and they do all best for me.

[600X]

Just a get a spare T60p on ebay, pull the good parts from it and put them into your T60p. Or just get the individual parts there. I can recommend a T61 or W500 heat sink and fan, and the T7200 is also a cheap processor to come by. You might also want to check out my cooling guide: http://forum.thinkpads.com/viewtopic.php?f=31&t=114717

[sriram00]

Thank you Aurora, FryPpy. So will part number 45n5492 directly fit in the T60p without requiring any modifications? 45n5492 is what's listed as a thermal device for W/T500 discrete.

[sriram00]

Hello everybody,

Thank you for your feedback on this. I have done my research and have decided on replacing my T2500 CPU to a T7200 or a T7400 depending on what's available. Have also seen videos on how this replacement can be done. And shall go in for the T60p or T/W500 fan.

Before I get down to all of that, just wanted to confirm with you all if there is anything I need to know or keep in mind before doing this. I am still not clear if the T/W500 discrete fan will fit directly in my T60p. From photos, apart from some minor differences, I find the structure of 45N5492 (T/W500 fan) to be same as that of 41W6407 (T60p fan). But would still like to know if it will be a direct fit.

And if the T7200/7400 upgrade will enable 64-bit 4GB capability.

Thanks in advance.

[ajkula66]

I'll answer the second part of your question: yes, T7200/7400 will make the machine 64-bit capable.

With that said, given the 3GB hardware cap on this platform I *strongly* prefer a 32-bit version of W7 on machines from this era.

If you *really* need 64-bit, T61 and later units are the way to go.