How to Read the HMM- Bluetooth and Other Questions

[RoxyRose]

Hey,

I just bought a ThinkPad T41 2373-5U2. Haven't recieved it yet, but trying to figure out if it has an antenna for bluetooth or not. When I search the HMM it does not list this model having a bluetooth antenna (it actually doesn't list it at all). However, the system it's based on: 2373-3HU, this may have a bluetooth antenna installed. Can I assume the same for my system?

Also, it still has a warranty but it is described as:
"This product has a three year special bid limited warranty and is entitled to parts, labor and on-site repair service. Service is available Monday-Friday, except holidays, with a next business day response objective."

Special bid? What does that mean? Was this possibly part of a business fleet of systems?

Finally:
What number do I have to call to make sure it isn't a stolen machine? How do I make 100% sure that the warranty will transfer to me when I get it (try to register it? Call and have the owner's info changed?) Also, how hard is it to get an extended warranty? I see in some threads people saying they couldn't get an extended warranty because they weren't a business... And lastly, can I get the LCD replaced for keyboard impressions?

[bill bolton]

Special bid? What does that mean? Was this possibly part of a business fleet of systems??

Specifically it means its been built in a particlar configuration for a volume purchaser. In practice it generally means it was built for a large organisation, be it commercial, education or government.

Someone in the US will need to answer your other questions.

Cheers,

Bill

[RoxyRose]

Thanks for confirming my suspicions. Hopefully, there will be some volunteers for my other questions? I am dying to know.

[RoxyRose]

No other repliers? I haven't really been able to find the answers I'm looking for and I was hoping to get it from the most knowledgable laptop users in the world

[Brad]

For warranty the way I understand how it works is the laptop s/n is what they go by. Does not appear to make a difference who it is registered to or even if it was ever registered. I have called for service on client's machines and have never been asked who was the person who registered the machine. They just happily took my information and proceeded from there.

As far as screen replacement I am not sure what their policy is. I am sure if there was a defect the screen would be replaced.

Brad

[rkawakami]

Can't answer the question about the bluetooth antenna with any personal experience, but if the system is described as being "based on" another type number, then it should be configured the same. As the HMM mentions "Tape on Bluetooth wireless antenna" for the 3Hx systems, the 5U2 should also have one.

As far as the check on whether or not you have a stolen system in your possession, I generally call Lenovo's main support number (1-800-426-7378) and navigate the voicemail system as best I can until I find a live person and explain why I'm calling ("I've just purchased a used Thinkpad off of eBay/craigslist/flea market/etc and was wondering if it has been registered with you as stolen. Here's the serial number...."). That's about all you can do (in my opinion), besides keeping good records on who/where you bought the system from.

[RoxyRose]

Thanks everyone!