Thinkpads Forum

I wonder if any hardware component with an IBM FRU# sticker on it is 100% genuine and will not cause any incompatibility trouble such as bios error warning at startup etc..

Will there be a difference to order them from Ebay?

Actually I was thinking of getting a bluetooth/modem card for my T43. I found one on Ebay which has a FRU number but it doesn't come with any manuals and box etc. Will I have problems?

ulrich.von.lich wrote:I wonder if any hardware component with an IBM FRU# sticker on it is 100% genuine.......snip

If bought directly from IBM/lenovo or any of it's business partners then yes otherwise can't say for sure.

But why would it have an IBM FRU number if it's not made by IBM?

In my experience, the FRU number does not necessarily mean that it's made by IBM, only supported by them in the products they have sold. For example, many memory modules made by various manufacturers will have the same FRU number. That only indicates that they will work in the designated systems which use/require that particular FRU.

Some people/sellers may create fake FRU numbers in the hopes that buyers will think that they are getting a "factory approved" piece of equipment. Can't say how common this is, but it's something to keep in mind.

Thanks! I'd better order the card from IBM/Lenovo.