T43 - easy fingerprint reader upgrade

[underclocker]

I have an Intel graphics based T43 model that did not originally come with the fingerprint reader option. I was interested in adding the fingerprint functionality.

From the forum, I was able to learn that only three parts are required for the upgrade, 1) a motherboard that supports the fingerprint reader technolology, 2) the correct Ultrabay drive cage rail assembly, and 3) the palmrest with fingerprint reader.

Obviously, the mobo is the key piece to this upgrade equation. Luckily, Lenovo used the same motherboard for all Intel graphics based T43 models! (I checked the HMM for Intel graphics based T43's.) That meant I was good to go, only a couple of relatively inexpensive parts were required.

The Ultrabay drive cage rail assembly for the fingerprint models only varies on the section that covers the hard drive, just below the fingerprint reader section of the palmrest. Basically there is a depression and cut-out that accomodates the fingerprint reader assembly from above. (I suppose you could modify a non-fingerprint reader assembly with a few common household tools).

I was happily surprised to discover the assembly that was originally installed in my model was the correct one for the fingerprint reader! Perhaps at some point Lenovo started using the fingerprint rail assembly since there isn't any disadvantage for the non-fingerprint reader models? Manufacturing, stocking, and tracking one multi-purpose part is easier. All I needed was the fingerprint reader palmrest!

I picked one up, installed it (the fingerprint reader ties into the touchpad cabling, so the connector plug to the motherboard does not change, you just plug it right in to the same mobo connector as the touchpad.

Voila! The fingerprint reader option appeared in the BIOS and the device was automatically detected by Windows.

Bottom line, all I needed for the fingerprint reader upgraded was a new palmrest. Very nice, low cost and easy upgrade.

[schen]

Ed,

Interesting post; I'll have to keep it in mind when I finally upgrade to a T43. What model is your upgraded machine?

Oh, by the way, I received the long-fan yesterday. Do you just put some Artic Silver on it and attach? I'm assuming it should go on the extended part that goes over the GPU.

Do mean to hijack your thread

Thanks,
Stan

[underclocker]

No problem. I've upgraded dozens of Pentium M ThinkPads the following way.

-Clean off all the old thermal grease from the fan and CPU
-Apply less than 1/2 grain of rice sized amount of Arctic Silver to the shiny/metal part of the top of the CPU
-Spread to thinnest layer you can and remove any excess grease
-Carefully replace the fan and fan screws

Do not place any thermal grease on the fan section that covers the GPU!

With this method, on battery power with a conservative power setting scheme, my CPU's rarely go over 40 degrees C. Which mean the fan stays off or on the lowest speed.

[richk]

Regarding the fan question, Arctic Silver goes on the CPU, not the GPU. The pad needs to make direct contact.

[ARD]

Would this also apply to ATI based motherboard T43s?
I have one that does not have a fingerprint reader.
I am tempted to add one.

[underclocker]

This thread seem to indicate that the ATI model T43's all support the fingerprint reader. I can not tell by the HMM, since there are eight motherboard models listed (there is only one listed for the Intel video T43's).

Perhaps other can provide feedback. Definitely post your results if you proceed.

[underclocker]

I also have a 2668-CTO that originally came without the fingerprint reader. I checked the system board part number in the HMM and it does support the fingerprint reader. It also happens to have the correct ultrabay guide rail. And yes, the fingerprint reader works perfectly.

So, some 2668 model (ATI video) T43's are good to go without any modifications other than the actual palmrest.