Thinkpads Forum

I need a compatibile motherboard for T61 7664-RWU. Currently has an Invidia 42w7867 41x5017. I want to use the same CPU but it doesnt matter whether it is an Invidia MB or not to me. Price is a consideration.

Thanks!

I believe as long as the new board is for the same size T61, 14" or 15", you should be good. If you're going nVidia to Intel, it shouldn't be a problem, but when going the other way, you need a different fan. All the part number are in the HMM.

Are there any considerations if I want to use my 2.4 8400 CPU in the replacement MB? I don't want to replace it too.
Thank you!

If you want to use your Penryn CPU you'll need either a Penryn capable board, or one that has the middleton bios installed, preference on the former rather than the latter.

If you are getting an nVidia board, be careful as many (perhaps most, especially the cheap ones) being sold online have failed gpu chips that have been reflowed which is not a solution and will result in repeat failure. To be rid of the risk of gpu failure you'd need a board from a laptop built in August 2008 or later, but you're not likely to find someone willing to remove one of these rare boards and sell it to you. A board with Intel graphics would be the most cost effective solution. I could probably get you a Penryn board, they aren't common since most laptops with Intel graphics had Merom cpu chips, or I could get you a merom board with the modified bios so it will run your Penryn cpu. You're welcome to send me a PM if you'd like my help.

You can also have a look at a table I made that show virtually every board used in this series.


ps. I can probably even get you a board with the updated nVidia GPU, but they generally cost about as much as the laptop is worth, but it's the only way to get a reliable laptop and keep your discrete graphics.