Thinkpads Forum

Guys, I am disappointed.

Where I can purchase the X61s in Europe, the only model that has the Ultralight screen comes with an old 3945a/b/g card. Which is quite disappointing because I have heard over and over about the right palm rest getting warm with this card and that the 4965AGN is cooler (plus I have the plus of having an N card).

I was offered 3 computers:

X61s - UK383UK (766683G) Link to specs
TMD Ultralight XGA
CPU L7500 1.60GHz 4MB
80GB HD 5400rpm
Intel 3945 a/b/g wireless

X61s - UK33AUK (76663AG) Link to specs
Normal XGA (non ultralight)
CPU L7500 1.60GHz 4MB
100Gb HD 7200rpm
Intel 4965AGN

X61 - UX276UK (767376G) Link to specs
Normal XGA (non ultralight)
CPU T7300 2.00GHz 4MB
120GB HD
Intel 4965AGN

It's annoying that the only Ultalight model available has the old 3945 which I don't like because I heard it generated more heat under the right palm rest than the 4965 would. Besides, I think having the N is a good thing. The HD speed is also annoying, but that I can easily upgrade (I don't mind paying extra for performance whenever possible).

I asked the distributor if I can purchase the X61s - UK383UK (the one with ultalight screen), and if I can get installed the 4965AGN instead and did not get an answer yet. But from what I have heard so far the answer would probably be NO and even if I would be able to purchase that card elsewhere, I wold probably void the warrenty if I open the X61s and install it myself. And losing the warrenty for such a bran new computer isn't nice. Plus not sure of the installation procedure is that easy.

Now I am lost again not having the configuration that I want.

I'm surprised I haven't heard more buzz about it - but the X61s palmrest is most definitely cooler than the X60s palrest!

I have both notebooks atm - both with the 3945 wireless card - and the X60s (XP) palmrest is uncomfortably warm while the X61s (Vista) palmrest heat is barely noticeable.

I would just buy the ultralight + 3945 model. You can always buy the n card later and install it if you really want, but in my experience, you won't want to switch out the 3945 card based on heat alone - speed is another issue which the n card is obviously better for.

The wireless N-speed difference is only usable inside your intranet, e.g. between your computer and router etc. as far as the other devices are N-capable. - For an internet DSL wlan connection speed the N-card won't give you any advantages, beside maybe some longer wireless distance connections, as far as your wlan router or access point supports the N-card well.