Thinkpad BOD a22m resurrection? - sorta

[BillMS]

Hi all,

I have a pristine IBM Thinkpad A22m that no longer boots (the ol' BOD power problem).

I say 'pristine' because I bought it new ('refurnished') from IBM, and haven't used it more than about 10-15 hours total. (I got it because a client got one; thought I needed one for support -- very little support required tho. Therefore limited use until about two years ago, when I started using it some -- few weeks, and then it BODd. )

It is Type 2633 - TTU; 1 Ghz,P3,1GB ram, Windows 2000

Now the somewhat odd question (or, is it worth it question):

I can get a 'working' a22m TYPE: 2628-TSU. P3 1Ghz. (Stripped of HD, memory, etc). Has a 'bad' LCD, but shown booted using an external monitor. Cost $29.

I'm thinking that I have two possible attacks; swap 2628 mobo into my 2633, or move my LCD (and good parts) over to the 'working' 2628.

BUT-BUT -- only IF the mobo and LCD fit in their new homes.

A long shot (since the systems are so 'vintage') -- but does anyone have any information or experience that would help me out? (I simply hate to trash/dismember clean systems (even old ones ).

I have downloaded the Service Manuals, and checked the best I can. But, those manuals and part nos/FRU numbers are quite difficult to compare in this manner.

Any suggestions very much appreciated (even opinions by more knowledgeable folks that would suggest I 'give it up').

Bill

[RealBlackStuff]

Both are 14.1" XGA machines, and they have identical hardware.
A mix-N-match is entirely possible.
It may be easier to swap just the complete lid from the 2633 onto the 2628.
What I can't see, is if either or both has wifi antennas, they need to be transferred if so.
For better looks, swap the good 2628 mobo into your newer-looking 2633.
Have fun.

[BillMS]

Thanks, RBS, for the 'encouraging' input about swapping parts.

Now, the question is -- do I want to do it (or, is it really worth it).

I emailed the ebay seller about the a22m LCD. He confirmed that it is 14", but didn't answer my other questions. I tend to get 'feelings' about sellers (I have bought a *lot* on ebay -- mostly *real* old laptops/parts). I feel stupid now. Gheeez.

I'm pretty sure that the a22m doesn't have wifi (or antenna). At least mine didn't have.

Thanks again.

Bill

[RealBlackStuff]

For a few $$$ more, get a tested mobo from this eBay supplier LaptopAid (many here have bought from them):
http://cgi.ebay.com/IBM-A22m-14-1-Mothe ... 0589245505

[BillMS]

Thanks for tip, RBS. The link was outdated but I found LaptopAid in ebay stores.

Very interesting to know about, not only for my current quest but for my other 'patients'.

Do you happen to know if the so-called BOD power interruption *is* on the mobo (or, is there a separate 'power' card/part involved -- I know my Cpq Amadas M/xxx do it that way)?

I think I recall, reading on this forum, various folks had tried 'fixing' the mobo (for BOD). Or, even sending one away to be fixed somewhere. Mixed results tho.

I'd hate to buy a mobo, not fix the problem.

BTW, LaptopAid has two mobo available - about $33-36

Another BTW, I was surprised how many other parts are available (even for a22m). Sort of burst my bubble -- I was thinking maybe I could get rich by parting out my a22m .

Thanks again. These forums are a wealth of info.

Bill

[rkawakami]

My best guess as to the ultimate cause of the BoD, after reading about a similar issue on an X31, is a bad capacitor(s) connected to one or both of the MAX1632 Power Controller output pins. It's firmly affixed to the motherboard and not on some separate daughterboard. The recent problem reported with the X31 is here:

http://forum.thinkpads.com/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=94160

Essentially what is happening is the the power controller "sees" too much voltage at power up and it shuts down to protect the system.

[BillMS]

Thanks, Ray.

Most interesting info. Looks like a new/tested mobo would be OK in the BOD area -- I think. Unless the testers used a 'jig' to power the mobo during testing, rather than an adapter or battery. Seems to be farfetched tho.

Or, I could try to find those offending capacitors (on my own mobo) -- and 'fix' it. Hmmmmm..

If I don't get another mobo (cost may be not worth it, for old system), I may even try the 'fix'.
(Old retired engineers do the strangest things.)

Thanks for the link also

Bill