Thinkpads Forum

Dear all,

I have an X220, would you please advise me on the correct 3G GSM modem card to install?

I live in the UK and mobile broadband will only be used here. I run Windows 8 Pro.

Thank you in advance.

IMO, you would be better off getting a mobil hotspot. I have one, and it works great! Easier to upgrade as technology advances or if you decide to switch carriers.

You connect to it via WiFi or you can use a USB cable if you prefer. IIRC battery is rated for about 5 hours, and is consumer replaceable (at least on my SW 754S). I have never had my hotspot battery die before the laptop battery does. You can charge it from the included wall wart or via USB.

http://www.sierrawireless.com/en/produc ... spots.aspx

Classic600X wrote:I have an X220, would you please advise me on the correct 3G GSM modem card to install?e.

For an X220 in the the UK, use an Ericsson F5521gw. Make sure its a Lenovo supplied part, otherwise it will not match the BIOS whitelist for RF devices, and basically will not work.

See ThinkPad Mobile Broadband Global Wireless WAN - Ericsson F5521gw

Cheers,

Bill B.

Thanks for the replies guys,

Will the F5521gw work with W8 on my X220? I could only find W7 drivers on the Lenovo drivers site.

Also, how do I make sure the F5521gw I purchase is a Lenovo supplied part, I found quite a few on eBay, but not all of them say 'Lenovo'. The 'Lenovo' ones seem to be more than double the price of the others?

Many thanks

It's also worth considering just tethering off your phone if possible.

Hello,

I have an X220 (4290-2VM) and recently obtained a X220 (4290-CE3).

The former came with the F5521gw factory, but I am not certain about whether the latter is "mobile broadband ready" with WWAN antenna and SIM card slot all wired up and ready to go.

Examining the parts list for the former, does not detail any WWAN antenna assembly, although the modem is specified.

Before I order an F5521gw, how to I determine whether the new X220 is "mobile broadband ready"?

Any assistance most gratefully apprised, thank you.

the latter has the WWAN Option, meaning it is pre-wired for it.
Just add the wifi/phone cards and connect the antennas.

X220 (4290-CE3)
i5-2520M(2.5GHz), 4GB RAM, 320GB 7200rpm HD, 12.5in 1366x768 LCD, Intel HD Graphics, Intel 802.11agn wireless, WWAN option, Bluetooth, 1Gb Ethernet, UltraNav, Secure Chip, Fingerprint reader, Camera, 6c Li-Ion, Win7 Pro 64

Thank you very much RBS, for the clarification.

Best regards, CS.