Question about wireless config for T61

[brrmax]

I am definitely buying a T61. Based on the reviews, it sounds like a great machine. I am going with the X3100, WXGA+ w/ Camera, T7500, 2GB, 100GB 7200 HD, 7 cell battery, dual layer DVD, Vista Ultimate and 3yr warranty. All of this for under $1700 with Visa discount.

My only question: are there any big differences in performance between the Intel 4965AGN vs ThinkPad ABGN wireless cards?

[Tholek]

It's a loaded question.

Some say that Atheros (The one listed just as "Thinkpad") cards are more sensitive, and and run cooler, while others say Intel is more stable, although some say they run cooler. Seeing as these are new cards, the previous Atheros/Intel comparisons may be out the door here.

Personally, I've found Atheros based cards are, indeed, more sensitive, detecting more APs and experiencing less dropouts. My last Intel, a 2200BG, did drop out a lot, and seemed hot, but the dropouts might have been attributable to chassis design (VAIO).

You should have less of a problem there with either card due to the new T61/R61 chassis'.

[ryengineer]

Make your choice, other than Intels.

[bontistic]

I think I recall others saying Intel run at a lower power than Atheros. Let me see if I can get a quote or a spec for that.

[Tholek]

I think I recall others saying Intel run at a lower power than Atheros. Let me see if I can get a quote or a spec for that.

In a sense, that's good for battery life, but it also explains performance.

Too bad there isn't a Senao card option.

[ryengineer]

I think I recall others saying Intel run at a lower power than Atheros. Let me see if I can get a quote or a spec for that.

That's very minimal power usuage as compared to quality of the non Intel cards like Atheros. Imagine a user struggling with internet problems altogether to a one getting the work done, smoothly.

If the OP likes to conserve battery then go with Intels integrated graphics as compared to nVidia discrete gpu. These kinds of chips consume more power than wireless cards.