Thinkpads Forum

I have a Thinkpad T61 model # 7663-12U which states that I have mode #42T0873 wireless card which is N disabled.

I would like to upgrade to a wireless card that runs "N"...

Few question...

1) I know the answer is no but I figure I will ask anyways incase I missed something... can I enable the "N" on my current wifi card??

2) What card do you guys recommend Atheros, Intel etc...

3) Does my model have a 3rd antenna already in it?

4)Is leaving the 3rd antenna under the palm rest ok?

5) Is it hard to run the 3rd wire up the side of the screen like existing 2 antenna?

6) Is there detailed instruction on how to install the new wifi card and antenna

7) Is this kind of Job recommended for a seasoned rookie of thinkpads (replaced HD's, RAM, etc)

Thanks for all your help....

Clint

1. Not unless you have a very special card (as in doesn't exist as far as I know.)

2. Currently, I recommend intel (unless you run OSX,) but I liked my Atheros G card in my t30, and they are a decent brand.

3.Almost guaranteed not, but I am not a t61 user.

4.The third antenna is not necessary, but if you have a three antenna card it will work. It will not get as good signal strength under the palm rest as in the screen though.

5. Depends on the computer. Get another user's opinion on this. I have found running them fairly simple on my previous thinkpads when upgraded or repaired. The hardest part was running the wires.

6.Have not found one yet. The biggest issue would be if a third antenna was installed.

7. The card installation is as easy as switching a ram stick. Get to it, unplug the antennas, switch the cards, and plug the antennas back in. Antenna installation can be a bit more tricky.

Bwadd wrote: 6) Is there detailed instruction on how to install the new wifi card and antenna

It's always a good idea to look up the hardware maintenance manual (HMM) for your model (it should be on Lenovo's website) --> I think this is the one.

Also this site is quite good (they have videos ): http://www.lenovoservicetraining.com/

However I'm not too sure how "detailed" you'd consider them to be.