Thinkpads Forum

Hi,
so...I just got my new T60 and while I'm very happy with it (after I upgraded the CPU and the memory), I would definitely like to upgrade the WLAN as well because the reception with the Atheros AR5212 is not the best (the connection gets interrupted quite a lot and Ubuntu 10.04 doesn't recognize it). I wouldn't mind the upgrade to N either since I have a draft N router, but that would be just a bonus. So, here are my questions:

1) Which inexpensive WLAN/Wifi card would you recommend? I already have Zenders whilelist patch installed (together with middleton's Fn/Ctrl swap) and I'm hoping that I can find a good deal on ebay for under 20€/$25 (eg. the Intel 4965 is less than 10 bucks including shipping!). I did search the forum here and it seems Atheros is favored to Intel, but which one would be a good model?

2.1) If there is a good and fairly cheap "N" card, which antenna do I need?

2.2) ...and is there a pictured description on how to install it? As I have written, I have no problem taking the thing apart, but I would really like to careful when the display comes into play.

Thank you very much in advance!

Nobody has a recommendation for me?

I'm looking into buying a new WLAN card myself and have been looking at the SparkLAN:
http://www.oxfordtec.com/uk/p204/SparkL ... _info.html

It's wireless N. There's also the Intel 5100, but there seems to be problems with those on what I've been reading.

Worzyl wrote:I'm looking into buying a new WLAN card myself and have been looking at the SparkLAN: ...It's wireless N...

Markstar as per Worzyl's post above - I can confirm that this card (SparkLAN WPEA-110N) did turn in a stable rock-solid performance and held-on to AP's even when the signal levels were very low, but in my opinion just lacked a little less range when searching for semi-distant AP's compared to my current card - HP Broadcomm BCM94322MC (r3). As your BIOS is already modified, both these cards should work just fine and will only require the two existing WLAN antenna's.

If however you do decide to get a WLAN card that requires a third antenna and want to install the correct thinkpad antenna within the LCD housing, refer to the ThinkPad T60/p Hardware Maintenance Manual for the correct FRU part No's and full installation guide.

Happy hunting & good luck!