R40e MiniPCI wireless card installation

[Pookster]

Hi all,

I was wondering if someone could give me some advise, I am considering getting an internal Mini PCI wireless card for my ThinkPad. But I am concerned about this BIOS 8210 error where it will lock you out if you do not install an approved card into the system.

I don’t really want to mess with the bios with a hex editor so I was wondering if someone could tell me which cards will work straight out of the box.

Also my second question is antennas, will I really need to install them I don’t mind fitting them, or will I get decent enough reception without having them connected, I seem to get around 97-100% out of my Belkin PCI card.

I look forward to hearing your replies and can't wait to free up my PCMCIA port.

On another point i am considering installing a different daughter board, if this is also possible to change it would be great because I really would like to have Bluetooth built in as it's really annoying having to plug in a USB pen seeing as one of my USB ports doesn't work and the R40e is slightly stingy with the amount of ports it provides.

Many thanks for all who look at this post and I look forward to your advice.

Cheers guys,

Pookster

[tfflivemb2]

What is the full model number for your R40e?

Here are some part numbers according to trwbook.pdf, that should work in your system without the BIOS hack, since they are for the R40:

31P8301 (Cisco Aironet 802.11b)
31P9701 (Intel 11a/b/g)

[darbyflier]

I used this: IBM Lenovo 802.11b/g Wireless Mini PCI Card 39T0073 found on ebay in my R40 2682. It works perfect with no problems, errors, and with full functionality. I did upgrade the bios and embedded controller for my model number from lenovo - I am not a tech and it was easy, just follow the instructions to the letter, I used the download version.

I also updated all of my computer drivers, etc (which finally got me the right wireless card driver) with the IBM Software Installer program on my computer. I did this last. I am very impressed with this little card, it works great. I have the pre-installed antennas.

[Pookster]

Hi there,

I have an IBM type 2684-HVG, have upgraded to 1 Gig ram 100gig HDD and CD/DVD-RW. But now want internal wireless too .

Hope this is the info you meant in the post,

Pookster

[bootsman]

Hello Pookster,
Adding internal wireless is easy.
Get the no 1802 hack,buy yourself a Intel 2915 ABG card,a set of wireless antenna's,install these under your keyboard(no need to hassle with the lcd cover)install the Intel drivers and you will be ok.
I have done this with my R40e 2884 and it works like a charm.
It even works with IBM's connection software and the Fn F5 power on switch although I don't use these.
You can buy the card easily on eBay USA,just look for dragon on the edge,very good seller who is very helpfull and ships for only 3-4 USD.
I do have a set of wireless antenna's left over,and a blue
tooth antenna as well,if interested just let me know.
Best regards,Jack.