X31 - missing pci wireless card - what to replace it with?

[robpm]

I just got a used X31 that was supposed to have a wireless card, but does not. I see the information on the IBM/Lenovo website on how to install a wireless card, but can't find information about what the most advanced card (abg? Intel?) will fit.

Also would appreciate suggestions on sources of new batteries, the one with the system is a little tired.

Oddly, all the IBM specific software was removed, but I can download that.

[Harryc]

I just went through this with an X31. All X31's are wireless upgradeable, which is good news for you because the antennas and wiring are already in place for WiFi. The card that is preferred by most members has the Atheros chipset and can be purchased easily on EBay at -

802-11-a-b-g-Wireless-Mini-PCI-39T0071

An extended life battery will give you the most run time. You can find deals on them on EBay occasionally.

Here's some more info on extended life batteries for the X31

Something like this battery on EBay might do for a regular battery replacement

You can also start a thread in our Marketplace conference and ask to buy an X31 battery. (WTB: X31 Battery)

[rek]

As you may know, the X31 BIOS can be patched with the "no-1802" tweak, so that you can use non-IBM/Lenovo cards. One subtle side effect of using a non-IBM card though, is that your wireless light (below the LCD panel) and Fn-F5 radio power menu, will not work. Something to keep in mind as you decide whether it's worth paying that little bit extra for the "IBM" version of the card..

I believe you can get the IBM cards in both Intel and Atheros variants. (I agree with Harry, the Atheros is worth getting.)

[robpm]

I just went through this with an X31. All X31's are wireless upgradeable, which is good news for you because the antennas and wiring are already in place for WiFi. ...

Thanks; I ordered the card you recommended, which I have also seen recommended on a number of threads.

Question: The machine originally had only a "b" wireless card. Does that mean only a "b" antenna will be installed and I will have to get a new 'a-b-g' antenna or will the antennas likely be 'a-b-g'?

[rek]

The antennas will be the same; all wireless cards (except some Wireless-N and MIMO ones) require two antennas. You'll have two of them, MAIN and AUX.

I upgraded an X31 with an IBM/Cisco "b" card, with a (non-IBM) Broadcom "a/b/g" card without issue. (Except for those things I mentioned earlier re: non-IBM cards.)

[Jason404]

As you may know, the X31 BIOS can be patched with the "no-1802" tweak, so that you can use non-IBM/Lenovo cards. One subtle side effect of using a non-IBM card though, is that your wireless light (below the LCD panel) and Fn-F5 radio power menu, will not work. Something to keep in mind as you decide whether it's worth paying that little bit extra for the "IBM" version of the card..

This is not true actually, as far as I can see, from personal experience. I think it may have been you that told me that those things won't work. I have upgraded an X30 and an X31 with non-IBM parts. I had to use the no-1802 hack, but the wireless light and the Fn+F5 software switch do work. (The X30 has no light fitted though).

You just have to make sure that the necessary drivers are installed. I cannot remember for sure what they are in this case, but I think they are the ACPI Power Management drivers.
http://www-307.ibm.com/pc/support/site. ... 00.html#pm

I have X31 Recovery CDs on FTP server, if anybody wants to make sure they have all the correct drivers. The old Access IBM apps need to be replaced with the new ThinkVantage ones though.