T41 CPU / processor upgrade question

[Thomcat]

Hi All,
I have searched and read through numerous threads, but due to the age of some of the information am not sure I've got it all right in my head.

I just bought a T41 with a 1.7ghz banias processor and 512mb of pc2700 ram.

What is the fastest processor that one can use to upgrade this system?

- Is it the Dothan 780 @ 2.26ghz?
- Can I use a 533mhz front-side bus Dothan processor at all?
- Will it default to 400mhz?
- Do I need to use the pinmod?
- If I am able to use 533mhz bus speeds successfully, will I need to upgrade the speed of the ram to match? If so, what speed and type?

Thank you everyone for your input.
Thomas

[aaa]

Fastest is the 2.1/400 (765 I believe).

533 is not supported. If you really want it, you can break out the soldering iron, there's a post here somewhere about it.

Did you think about upgrading the ram and HD (to 7200) first?

[sktn77a]

The 765 2.1GHz 400FSB CPU is the fastest you can use. Some people have reported heat problems with this CPU, though. I used a 755 2.0GHz in mine and they get pretty hot but no problems yet. A 1.7 Banias to a 2.0 Dothan probably isn't the most cost effective upgrade but that's your choice. More RAM and a faster HDD are probably the best bang for the buck.

[Thomcat]

Thanks for the replies. I got some 533mhz sodimms laying around. Would those work in a Thinkpad t41? Or does it have to only use pc2700/400mhz fsb ram?

[sktn77a]

Thanks for the replies. I got some 533mhz sodimms laying around. Would those work in a Thinkpad t41? Or does it have to only use pc2700/400mhz fsb ram?

That sounds like DDR2 (?) which won't work in a T41.

[kyrotech]

Considering you have a 1.7 ghz banias, you will benefit upgrading to a 2.0 ghz Dothan. 2GB of PC2700 will help to improve your performance A LOT as well