Z61m Upgrades

[schen]

I just picked up a low-end Z61m that I think would be a decent candidate for upgrading. Other than the obvious like RAM and HDD, I'd also like to do the display, and CPU...which is where I've run into a snag. Here is the Original Spec:

Product: ThinkPad Z61m 9452-E7U [change]
Operating system: All [change]

Original description: Celeron M 420(1.6GHz), 512MB RAM, 80GB 5400rpm HD, 15.4in 1280x800 LCD, Intel 950, CDRW/DVD, Intel 802.11abg wireless, Modem, 1Gb Ethernet, UltraNav, Secure chip, IEEE 1394, Fingerprint reader, 6c Li-Ion batt, WinXP Pro

Maybe I'm missing it, but after several searches, I haven't been able to come to any conclusions regarding using a T5550 to upgrade the CPU. I've looked all through Underclockers Z60m to Z61m upgrade and it has a comprehensive list which includes the T5500 and T5600, but no T5550. As far as I can tell by looking at the specs for it, I can see why that processor couldn't work except for maybe microcode.

So, does anyone know, have tried it? Any other comments regarding upgrading a Z61m welcome as well.

[underclocker]

Sounds like fun. The Z61m is the easiest machine to work on, IMHO. It has big sturdy parts that don't require any tricks to release or re-attach. Other than the CPU, that's a nice machine.

You can not use the T5550 because it is a Socket P CPU, you need a Socket M CPU, like the T5500. The C2D 1.66GHz T5500 is a great choice because it's fast, cool and inexpensive. It's about as fast as a Core Duo T2500 2.0GHz.

You can also upgrade the LCD panel to either WSXGA+ or WUXGA and you may even be able to use the same inverter and cable. I also believe the IBM/Atheros N Mini-PCI Express wifi adapter will work in this machine. You can use it with or without a third antenna (which you would have to install).

Good luck and have fun with that monster. (P.S. This PM was typed on a Z61m.)

[schen]

OK, great, that clears things up. I'll probably do either the T5500 or the T5600 then. I've just about decided to do a WSXGA+ panel when I can find an inexpensive donor as well as the MPCI-E "N" WiFi. I'll just have to look for that.

My one remaining decision will be, if I go with as cool of a machine as possible, I might try to find a large capacity 5400rpm drive vs. the 7200rpm drive I have on hand. I can't wait to get my hands on this thing, it'll be the most fun I've had with a machine since the A3x series.....which coincidentally were big beefy machines as well! It'll be a nice "Beast" counterpoint to my X300 "Beauty".