thinkpad 240x wifi install

[maharper]

Hello, I've got an Intel pro/wireless 2915abg card which I'm trying to install in my thinkpad 240x. After removing the keyboard and modem I thought installation would be a breeze.. but I quickly noticed that I can't seem to fit the new card into place. There is a small pertursion (real technical I know) just above the card which prohibits me from pressing the card down any furher. Any ideas? Have a bought a card that is not compatable? Also once installed where do I put the antennas? Thanks!

[tim S]

I use a 2915 Intel MINI ABG card in my 240 but there are 2 models with this number. The correct one has the white covering going between the two antenna connections. The other card is taller but is still called mini for some reason! For the 240 you don't need an 'IBM' specific card, the regular one for Dell and others is fine. Since your card is hitting the video connector on the mother board you either have the wrong (larger) card or, you'll have to lift off the video plug, then there's just enough room for the mini card to lay flat with the plug re-connected. On mine I installed Intel's pro driver for the card but let windows handle the rest. I also put my 2 antenna wires behind the screen which requires a lot of dismantling. If you go this route then make sure one wire is behind the screen but above the chrome insulation, by the latch. The second wire should be infront, over, or above the inverter. The 240's lid wasn't designed for wireless recepton so one in back and one in front works pretty well. The 240 is so compact I don't think keeping the wires inside the chassis will get you good reception but it might work for you, and is a whole lot easier than the screen route!
Good luck
Tim S

[maharper]

Thanks! I lifted the video connector and managed to slip the card in. Now my only question is, I am supposed to secure the antennas down? I understand that I can put them under the keyboard or behind the moniter but how are they secured?

[tim S]

Depending on the ends, it's shape to fit. The set of wires I used had specially shaped metal tips for the correct installation in whatever laptop they were for. I just flattened them out with pliers so they would fit where I needed them to go. Actually the rear was flattened but the one in front over the inverter needed to be cut and bent. It's fairly easy to do, just watch out for the antenna solder points. Use Scotch tape to hold them in place. Luckily for me the inverter side on mine had a screw hole that linded up with the screen screw, so I used that instead.
Tim S