T30 System Board Replacement Questions

[lgchristianson]

So, have to replace the board in my 236651u and the original has the security chip. I suspect that option makes it more expensive. Can I replace it with the mobo without it?

Anyone have any other ideas?

Almost cheaper to just buy a new cheapie laptop with replacement boards listing at $600 US.

[betabill]

I would trust a new system board over a refurbished T-30. Have you checked for proper fan operation? If it runs longer cold, then maybe the fan/heatpipe just needs the dust blown out. Thre cpus in thinkpads are allowed to run hot, the fan usually switches on for a few seconds when the system posts.

[LtTPfan]

You can replace with a mobo that doesn't have the security chip. I haven't seen a naked T30 mobo but it's possible they all come socketed but just not equipped with the security chip. If that's the case you can transplant your chip.

[lgchristianson]

I would trust a new system board over a refurbished T-30. Have you checked for proper fan operation? If it runs longer cold, then maybe the fan/heatpipe just needs the dust blown out. Thre cpus in thinkpads are allowed to run hot, the fan usually switches on for a few seconds when the system posts.

Had the fan out and it was pretty clean. Heard from someone else on this forum who thinks the board has some cold solder joint issues and I tend to agree. Trying to find someone who might be able to repair it cheaply.

Wife got one of the kids a new Compaq w 15" LCD 2.8 GB CPU, 80GB HDD with built in wi-fi. Included a printer and wireless router for $500. At that price I think maybe new cheape laptops are the way to go. When they puke just pitch it and buy new.