Thinkpads Forum

Has anyone ever made up some kind of matrix (like was done for the various types Ultrabays on Thinkwiki) for Thinkpad motherboards and chassis?

For example, I've got a Thinkpad T30 that's in good condition case-wise but it has the well-known memory slot fault on it. I may have a go at fixing it with a soldering iron because (here in the UK) it seems impossible to source a working T30 motherboard on eBay.

It would just be interesting to know what motherboards can be put into what chassis, and if any minor modification needs to be carried out.

I don't think there is any direct interchangeability of motherboards outside of a series and Very few, if any within a series. By direct interchange, I mean No modifications to the board to fit in another series. There might be some T40 series that can interchange. T20, 21, 22 might interchange. As far as in the same number but different letter (T61 / R61 / Z61), I have no idea.

I don't think any newer series will interchange with the exception of T/W 5xx systems.

No other board will fit a T30 frame.

^^
You either need to be REAL GOOD with a soldering iron or wedge up some strips of paper / cardboard to press fit the broken micro connection together. I chose the latter on one T30. I have so far been unable to find someone local who can make the repair.