Thinkpads Forum

I joined this forum more than 6 years ago when I bought a Thinkpad T42p for work. It has been the best laptop I've ever used. Finally needing to upgrade, I bought a custom configured T520 - with many helpful suggestions from you all.

I couldn't find as much info the T520 as I wanted, and so I was spooked by threads like the "Buyer's Remorse" thread. Have Thinkpads really gone so far downhill? It was getting me worried and concerned. I can't think of leaving a Thinkpad - the Trackpoint alone is worth putting up with other possible "issues".

So, the machine arrived yesterday, and I'm very happy to say that this machine is awesome so far. Anyone concerned about posts related to Thinkpad - perhaps the models discussed are smaller, or the screens the less expensive options. Don't be concerned about the T520 as configured below. First impressions are fantastic!

I thought I start this thread to point out the strengths of the T520 for what I'm doing with it, to pay forward your support. Let's start with the very first impressions.

Here's the configuration:

Intel Core i7-2720QM Processor (2.20GHz, 6MB L3)
Genuine Windows 7 Professional 64
Microsoft Windows 7 XP Mode - English
15.6" FHD (1920 x 1080) LED Backlit Anti-Glare Display, Mobile Broadband Ready
NVIDIA NVS 4200M Graphics with Optimus Technology, 1GB DDR3 Memory
4 GB PC3-10600 DDR3 SDRAM 1333MHz SODIMM Memory (1 DIMM)
UltraNav with TrackPoint & touchpad plus Fingerprint reader
720p Camera
500 GB Hard Disk Drive, 7200rpm
DVD recordable multiburner
Express Card Slot & 4 in 1 Card Reader
9 cell Li-Ion Battery - 55++
Country Pack North America with Line cord & 135W AC adapter
Bluetooth 3.0
Intel Centrino Ultimate-N 6300 (3x3 AGN)
Integrated Mobile Broadband - Upgradable

Accessories
ThinkPad Battery 27++ (9 Cell Slice Battery - T410/420, T510/520, W510/520)
ThinkPad Mini Dock Plus Series 3 (US/Canada/LA)

Additions:
+ 4GB RAM for total of 8 GB
Wenger Legacy Triple-Gusset CF Model WA-7654-14F00 (checkpoint-friendly)


Quick first impressions:
- The screen is awesome. I was concerned as many posts complain of some Thinkpad screens. The FHD screen is awesome. So funny that the TABOOK only lists one T520 pre-configured model with it! I love a sharp, hi-res, low-gloss screen - and this one qualifies.

- It's a lot larger than expected! Not uncomfortably large for me, but while it's really not a lot larger than the T42p, the wider aspect ratio gives the impression that it is. It's plenty light for me.

- The slice battery is downright mean-looking. With the 9-cell battery boasting such high run times, the slice might not be used a lot. But, I might bring it to meetings just for impact value. :0 It makes the T520 look like a jacked-up hot rod. More later on how it performs.

- Quad-core, multi-threaded CPU/OS is a thing of beauty. Opening the task manager and seeing 8 threads is very cool. To my surprise, even with just system utilities running, all four threads seem to be used.

- I haven't pushed it yet, but this thing is literally cool. The very low fan running was blowing out cool air.

- Keyboard is high quality. I need more time with it to see if I prefer the keys being closer together, but the action is quite good.

- I thought I would be really disappointed with the wider aspect ratio. I think I'm liking it already. It will be great for the usual landscape spreadsheets. But also, it should allow side-by-side document comparisons with a bit of room to spare on the desktop.

- Although the Lenovo configurator only allows you to buy a 135W power brick with a quad core T520, you don't have to buy another 90W brick to replace the large and heavy 135W if you buy the dock as shown above. You can swap the 90W brick from the dock, and use it on the T520, and use the 135W brick on the dock. (NOTE: I haven't tried the dock yet, but the hardcopy instructions confirm that you can do this). The 90W brick is pretty small, but I might go smaller still with the Targus offering, and keep the 90W for recharging when home.

Note that for my use, more battery and less power brick is preferable. This was the key reason why I didn't go for the W520. Traveling to meetings, and while at the actual meeting in many cases, getting to an outlet is really inconvenient. From the numbers I'm reading on run time on battery, the 9 cell, and especially 9 cell + slice when needed is going to preclude the need for plugging in often.

- When traveling, I prefer a (one) case that will hold everything I need for the computer, plus hardcopy notes. All of the cases available at local stores were really not adequate. The Wenger case mentioned above might be the perfect case. I was worried that the T520 might not fit - but indeed, it fits perfectly. I think though that it would be tough to store it in any kind of sleeve, as the fit is "just right". If an extra sleeve is desired, a very thin one, or a thin bubble wrap bag might be used.

The case is checkpoint-friendly, so in many airports, you can have the bag scanned without taking the computer out of the bag - a nice feature. The bag also has an extra compartment for hardcopy folders, books, whatever. I could not find such a bag at local stores - all have two, or one! Completely inadequate for me - I need at least three.

But there's another important consideration - how big would the case be with the wider computer. My very, very old Kensington case that I use for the T42p, and that I used for the laptop before that is "thick", but LxW is actually quite compact, and it always fits under airline seats (in coach). It still fits with the nasty room-stealing video entertainment compartments that are under some seats these days. So, the good news? This case has the exact same LxW as my old case! That's so important. I see many cases out there that are slimmer, but wider - and would be a problem in planes.

- The machine was built without a modem. There's no way to choose one anymore for the T520. I've been told that they are being phased out. The modem port is plugged - so at least there's not some silly, non-functioning exposed port. I've never used the modem on the T42p, so I don't expect I'll need one. You may need one though. If so, you might want to find a preconfigured model. But, I suggest not to sacrifice the FHD display for something like a modem!

I hope this helps people get through potential buyers fears. I probably pre-plan these things way too much, but that's because I hate returns. I just want to get it right the first time if possible. And clearly, I use these things until they are worn out. Amazing to me that the T42p still keeps going strong. Let's see if the T520 can match it for longevity.

An update for those people (perhaps rare) that are upgrading to Windows 7 from Windows Xp. I have to saw I'm impressed with Microsoft's video and pdf initial guides for learning key new features of Windows 7. In about 30 mins, looking at separate smal videos you can get a working overview of Windows 7 and start using the new features immediately, which look very powerful - just one example, the libraries feature in Windows Explorer. It's all accessed easily from the getting started link in the Start button.

Some more quick updates:

1) This display is da bomb. Any fears about not liking the wider aspect ratio are erased so far. Also helpful is to put the taskbar on the left hand side of the desktop, which then gives the full vertical width to your windows. 1920x1080 gives a bit more pixels than 1600x1200, and I am liking the orientation. Comparing / working with documents side by side is improved.

2) The keyboard has a different feel than the T42p, but is a very good keyboard. The T42p felt a bit closer to a "long throw" desktop keyboard, but it's somewhat of an illusion. The T520 keyboard picks up the action more quickly, which is good. There's no mushiness - it's a quality keyboard.

It's funny thought what things happen in your subconcious that you have to overcome. Because there's a lot more space between the left side of the laptop and the keyboard, my left hand subconciously seeks out the left side of the laptop for orientation. Because of this, I notice that instead of hitting the "a" key, I've been hitting the caps lock. I'm already getting over this - no big deal.

3) Ultranav center trackpoint key is smaller - again, no issue for me. The overall wider ultranav keys are just fine - could go with new or old setup. The new larger trakpad is preferred.

4) For simple use, the speakers are better than in the T42p.

5) Running the system without wifi, but with Aero, the slice battery drained to about 60% in about 4 hours of use. Take these as approximate numbers. As far as I'm concerned, that's great.

6) This machine runs cool. The old T42p was a little bit uncomfortable in a lap re: heat. I ran the T520 with slice battery for several hours in a recliner last night, on battery power and with plugged ethernet line, and the laptop remained cool. This is a nice plus.

I continue to be impressed.

Thanks for the review! Makes me want a FHD panel already

well if you jump from T42 to T520 everything should look like a dream no doubt...

@hman, Thank you for the post. I've been contemplating getting a T520 configured very similar to yours. You may have pushed me over the edge. Question regarding the wifi, is there really a difference between the Intel 1x1, 2x2 and 3x3 wifi cards?

Wow. 30% off coupon at lenovo.com clinched it for me.

Might have more trouble with doing things in parallel on fewer antennae.

Khaoohs - frankly - I haven't run the Wifi yet. I've only run the machine with cable connection at home at this point. I'm waiting on some software to complete the install and fully move to the T520 for work use. Home is hardwired, with many convenient spots to tap into. Work environment should be a good test though, as some areas are not Wifi friendly with the T42p (which had the "best" Wifi card option at that time).

And speaking of T42p - Deickos, this machine has been so good over the years that I basically haven't had to think of anything else. I think it speaks for the Thinkpad line - at least the "classic" ones. They are highly functional, and last "forever" if treated well. Prior laptops (very old Macbooks, high-end Dells circa 2001) just cannot compare - the T42p was a large improvement. Clearly, people reading this forum like to buy good stuff and like to research it thoroughly, and that research takes time. I don't want (actually, don't have the time) to do it often!

That's probably my biggest pet peeve with PDA cell phones - they are changing so quickly that you basically can't wait 5 or 6 years to replace them. And, I dread in each step forward what's going to happen with PDA/laptop synching - if it "breaks" at any given step, it will be upsetting, as I use it so much. I'm a real computer person at heart, but I just don't have the time to put in this level of research on computer stuff this often. It's fun, but at some point, you just have to go back to work.
(FWIW, only had three PDAs over the years - (i) the original US Robotics Pilot (!!!), (ii) the HTC Mogul, and (iii) the HTC Touch Pro 2). I don't want to upgrade the present one any time soon! (man, I ran that original Pilot into the ground! It still works - buried somewhere around here....)

More detail coming re: T520 once I switch over to it for everyday work use...

You might want to get the 90W Ultraslim AC/DC Combo Adapter instead of buying a Targus travel charger. I bought one and it is awesome. It has every charger you could possibly want. They also have different tips for it so that you can use it with many different laptops. Not to mention the USB charger that is included.

http://shop.lenovo.com/SEUILibrary/cont ... de=41R4493

khaoohs wrote:@hman, Thank you for the post. I've been contemplating getting a T520 configured very similar to yours. You may have pushed me over the edge. Question regarding the wifi, is there really a difference between the Intel 1x1, 2x2 and 3x3 wifi cards?

Wow. 30% off coupon at lenovo.com clinched it for me.

1x1 can only do 150mbit, 2x2 does 300mbit and the 3x3 can do 450mbit. You will need a wireless-n router that runs at those speeds to take full advantage of them though.

MIMO with multiple antennae is a bonus for wireless multitasking assuming your other devices support it.

Does anyone know of a good neoprene sleeve that fits the T520? I ordered one along with mine and it came and doesn't fit very easily/comfortably because it's too wide. Kind of annoying considering an accessory they sell with it doesn't really work.

Redhook - spending even a few minutes deciding on a slim travel adapter is too much, but I confess that I have. I searched for info about the slim adapters "thoroughly", and I came to the conclusion that if I was going to buy any, it would be the Lenovo.

I don't have it yet, but can you comment on the following list of pros/cons from what I've read:

Pros:
1) slimmer form factor than standard 90W adapter - will fit in a slim, flapped slot in the Wenger case.
2) Allows charging of cell phone (however, that can be done with the computer out by charging it, then charging cell phone from the "always on" USB port. (That's sometimes a lot less convenient though)

Cons:
1) Same weight as standard 90W adapter if you only take brick + AC + DC power cord (not really a con - just no "pro" on the weight)
2) I've read that the DC output cord near the connector to the laptop is fragile and frays after several months of use (???)
3) AC power cord is 1m - too short - EASY solution - buy a replacement 2m cord from cable.com for $5 - which would bring the total length about equal to a standard 90W adapter.
4) You have to connect two cords to the brick each time before using if you stash the slim brick in a narrow sleeve in a case. (seems like a very minor con - unless wear-and-tear due to plugging and unplugging is an issue (???)

So Redhook - what do you think? Is the Lenovo Ultraslim 90W adapter (i) rugged and sturdy, and (ii) why do you see it as a large advantage over the standard 90W adapter?

Thanks in advance for a reply. Perhaps we should start a separate thread on the Ultraslim adapter?

qqqqqqqfnq wrote:Does anyone know of a good neoprene sleeve that fits the T520? I ordered one along with mine and it came and doesn't fit very easily/comfortably because it's too wide. Kind of annoying considering an accessory they sell with it doesn't really work.

Do you have the 9-cell battery? I bought the ThinkPad branded one with my T510 and it fits perfectly with the 9cell battery installed.

hman wrote:Redhook - spending even a few minutes deciding on a slim travel adapter is too much, but I confess that I have. I searched for info about the slim adapters "thoroughly", and I came to the conclusion that if I was going to buy any, it would be the Lenovo.

I don't have it yet, but can you comment on the following list of pros/cons from what I've read:

Pros:
1) slimmer form factor than standard 90W adapter - will fit in a slim, flapped slot in the Wenger case.
2) Allows charging of cell phone (however, that can be done with the computer out by charging it, then charging cell phone from the "always on" USB port. (That's sometimes a lot less convenient though)

Cons:
1) Same weight as standard 90W adapter if you only take brick + AC + DC power cord (not really a con - just no "pro" on the weight)
2) I've read that the DC output cord near the connector to the laptop is fragile and frays after several months of use (???)
3) AC power cord is 1m - too short - EASY solution - buy a replacement 2m cord from cable.com for $5 - which would bring the total length about equal to a standard 90W adapter.
4) You have to connect two cords to the brick each time before using if you stash the slim brick in a narrow sleeve in a case. (seems like a very minor con - unless wear-and-tear due to plugging and unplugging is an issue (???)

So Redhook - what do you think? Is the Lenovo Ultraslim 90W adapter (i) rugged and sturdy, and (ii) why do you see it as a large advantage over the standard 90W adapter?

Thanks in advance for a reply. Perhaps we should start a separate thread on the Ultraslim adapter?

It's seems pretty sturdy so far, I've only had it for about 3 months though. None of the connections feel like they're fragile or going to break, and the brick seems to stay cooler than the stock 90w that came with my T510. The bag with all the connectors in it fits in my bag pretty well, doesn't take up much room at all. The main advantage of having it over the stock 90w for me is that it doesn't take up much space in my bag and I can always keep my laptop charged (I travel often), and I can keep the 90w plugged in at my desk.

Hey hman, thanks for the post. It looks like we have identical machines, except I added more RAM and an SSD. Here is my review:

http://forum.notebookreview.com/lenovo- ... eview.html

I am loving everything about my T520, except for the pulsing fan, which I hope Lenovo engineers will find a solution for soon. I was wondering if you've noticed the fan pulsing on your laptop. On mine, it happens at any fan RPM, i.e. it may be subtle at low spinning fan speeds or may be quite noticeable when the fan is more than 1900 RPMs, but it's always there.

I bought a T520 too but I'm not ready to quit XP yet so I got the XP downgrade disks too. They won't install the video drivers. I downloaded the Nvidia 4200M drivers for XP from Lenovo and it says it cannot find the hardware.

XP does not support optimus. Select discrete only in the bios.

(also, there's nothing wrong with moving on to windows 7. XP is a dinosaur)

fcampbel wrote:I'm not ready to quit XP yet

If this is because you prefer XP's user interface over 7's, you may want to consider Vista, which is still somewhat similar to XP.

Remember to set PowerMizer to use 2D Low Power Clocks on battery with the discrete chip. This lets you reduce power consumption by a fair bit.

OT: Still running 98 too?
Revolutions Pack'd/KernelEx'd it?

EDIT: Vista? KILL IT WITH FIRE. Could consider Server 08 R2...

From XP, there is no reason to go to vista. vista is crap.
7 though, is a massive upgrade from either. Performance, security, UI, app support, etc.

blackomegax wrote:From XP, there is no reason to go to vista. vista is crap.

*Was* crap but not any more. See our earlier discussion in this thread: http://67.214.227.38/~thinkpad/forum/vi ... 35&start=0

blackomegax wrote:7 though, is a massive upgrade from either. Performance, security, UI, app support, etc.

IMO, 7 and Vista are about the same in terms of performance, security and app support -- Vista is really Windows 6 and Windows "7" is really 6.1. As far as UI, I like Vista much more.

They fixed quite a few issues with the service packs. It's still got that bad image associated with it and that weird turquoise tint by default.

You probably will get better driver support with 7, especially on newer hardware. Plus, there's that whole effort in optimizing 7 for performance and power savings that just wasn't there with Vista (at least not from the start).

Thanks folks, and yes, Colonel O'Neill, I do still run 98 on my A21p. I was running XP on it but it was very slow and eventually suffered some sort of nervous breakdown and would not recognize the network anymore. So, I put its old HD back in and am using it with 98.

In dealing daily with all three versions of MS Windows, XP, Vista and 7, I would have to say that Windows 7 is by far the most responsive and reliable performer. For me there is no question between using Vista or 7. The only question is between XP and 7 ... and XP is only decided on when it REALLY has to be so.

To the OP: have you noticed any build quality issues with the T520? A review I read recently had this to say:

"Then there was the T520′s poor build quality. This machine just does not feel like a ThinkPad. Its plastic feels cheap, its lid fits poorly and makes a rattling sound when you pick it up, with the hinge not settling the display seamlessly onto the laptop’s bottom when the lid is shut, and the same is true of its battery — the unit just does not sit squarely with the rest of the laptop and rattles when you pick the laptop up."

http://delimiter.com.au/2011/06/29/len ... 20-review/

Dear hman,

Thank you for the helpful review! I am considering replacing my trusty T42 15.0" model with a T520 in the next three days while they have a 20% coupon available.

Unfortunately, I am far away from home and any access to rulers marked in inches. Could you please compare the outside dimensions of your old machine with the T520 to help me visualize how much larger the T520 is? How much wider? Is it thicker too?

I really liked the tall 1400 x 1050 display on the T42, so am considering the T520 FHD 1920 x 1080 display to have the benefit of about the same pixel height with the additional pixel width, as long as it is not terribly cumbersome in physical width. I do like to have numerous windows open.

Thanks! Have a great summer.

Dave

T520 FHD dimensions (widthXdepthXthickness): 372.8mm x 245.1mm x 32.8-36.6mm
T42 15" dimensions (widthXdepthXthickness): 329mm x 268mm x 31-36mm

So the T520 is somewhat thicker, but should be a bit lighter (with similar size batteries).