Are the Intel SSD(160GB) on T420s - G2 or G3(320 series) ?

[ssatpathy]

I have a couple of questions about the Intel SSD (160GB) that is currently being offered as an option on the T420s (Lenovo product #4170) machine:

(i) Is this a 320 series (G3) Intel SSD or is it the older G2 generation drive. Does anyone have the part number for this drive as I would be able to figure out the generation from that.
(ii) What is the form factor of the drive 1.8" or 2.5" ? Again if someone can pass along the Intel part # for the drive I can decipher the form factor as well from it.

I called Lenovo/IBM Tech customer support first and then they transferred me to their Tech support center in Atlanta, GA and while they did tell me that it was a 2.5" form factor they couldn't answer the more important questions as to whether it is G2 or a G3 drive.

Please help.

[Thrakath]

G3 including FW error! You will have to flash the newest!

[ssatpathy]

G3 including FW error! You will have to flash the newest!

You mean install the newest Firmware update ? Also can you please confirm the form factor 1.8" vs 2.5" ? I had a 1.8" on my T410s and I don't ever want the 1.8" form factor again - nightmare to find drives in the marketplace for future upgrades.

[underclocker]

T420s models definitely take thin (7mm) 2.5" drives. I've installed Intel 320 series drives in several.

[Q-Ball]

Nice HUGE text.

Anyways.

I'm pretty sure that it's the Intel 320. They phased out the old X-25M in March.

Also, it's a 2.5" drive. The T410s took 1.8" but the T420s takes 2.5" drives.

It will only accept drives that are 7mm high. There are only 4 SSDs out there that I am aware of that are designed like this and they are:

-Intel X-25
-Intel 320
-Crucial C300
-Crucial m4.


If you buy an SSD separately, which I suggest you do because it will be cheaper or faster (Windows 7 takes all of 12 minutes to install), it's easy to remove the spacer and install the drive. Link to a sample mod using the m4 is here.

(Plus you get a slimline 320GB hard drive out of the deal- which you can throw in a caddy into the UltraBay if you need more space.)

[ssatpathy]

Nice HUGE text.

Anyways.

I'm pretty sure that it's the Intel 320. They phased out the old X-25M in March.

Also, it's a 2.5" drive. The T410s took 1.8" but the T420s takes 2.5" drives.

It will only accept drives that are 7mm high. There are only 4 SSDs out there that I am aware of that are designed like this and they are:

-Intel X-25
-Intel 320
-Crucial C300
-Crucial m4.


If you buy an SSD separately, which I suggest you do because it will be cheaper or faster (Windows 7 takes all of 12 minutes to install), it's easy to remove the spacer and install the drive. Link to a sample mod using the m4 is here.

(Plus you get a slimline 320GB hard drive out of the deal- which you can throw in a caddy into the UltraBay if you need more space.)

Thanks for your detailed response. You answered all my questions.

-S-