Thinkpads Forum

Hey everyone, this is my first post here!

I recently bought a T60 (15-inch 4:3), and after cleaning and repasting it, I accidentally caught the wireless antenna cable in the keyboard bezel while reassembling it. After turning it on, WiFi remained disabled, no matter what I tried. I opened it up again and saw that the cable was slightly crushed but also destroyed maybe by the fan? I don’t know if it wasn’t already like that.

Now, I’m wondering:
- Do I need to replace the entire antenna assembly or can I just replace the gray wire?
- How do I find out which wire or antenna assembly are compatible with my T60?

I’ve attached some photos of the damaged cable for reference : https://imgur.com/a/tSyroLJ

I searched the forum but couldn't find any similar information. Sorry if this has been discussed before.

I’d really appreciate the help. Thanks in advance!

IMO any form of antenna damage wouldn't cause the WiFi card to be disabled-- I have a non-Thinkpad laptop that lacks its entire lid assembly (including WiFi antennas), but the WiFi card is enabled and is even able to detect access points (but not connect to them).

Check :

WiFi enable switch
BIOS settings
Fn+F5

OTOH it's also possible that the card itself is malfunctioning.

That little nick on the insulation is insufficient to cause any dysfunction.

Best try axur-delmeria’s solutions and see if that helps.

axur-delmeria wrote: ↑

Sat Feb 01, 2025 3:12 pm

IMO any form of antenna damage wouldn't cause the WiFi card to be disabled-- I have a non-Thinkpad laptop that lacks its entire lid assembly (including WiFi antennas), but the WiFi card is enabled and is even able to detect access points (but not connect to them).

Check :

WiFi enable switch
BIOS settings
Fn+F5

OTOH it's also possible that the card itself is malfunctioning.

Oh , it turns out the solution was simpler than I thought. I feel a bit embarrassed, but I wasn’t aware of the Wi-Fi switch and must have accidentally turned it off. I turned it back on, and the internet is working now.

Thank you both for your replies and help!