Getting IBM to switch out the keyboards.

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yargok · #61 Post by **yargok** » Sun Jul 18, 2004 7:06 pm

IBM originally sent me the wrong keyboard ... it was for the 15 inch model. Having since gotten the proper Thai 14" keyboard, i must say, that i enjoy typing on it. The keys are very smooth and precise.

JaimitoBond · #62 Post by **JaimitoBond** » Mon Jul 19, 2004 4:21 am

Anyone got any video showing how they are different when used?

Or how about an audio clip, of the difference in sounds the keys make.

bmwdavid071 · #63 Post by **bmwdavid071** » Mon Jul 19, 2004 1:50 pm

I am going to receive my T42 (2378FVU) this week hopefully

.
Somebody said we can go to IBM website to check the FRU part number of keyboard, and I went to that link and input my model T42 (2378FVU) and the result came out as following.
http://www-307.ibm.com/pc/support/site. ... MIGR-46503
It shows the FRU part number of keyboard for my model is 08K5044, which would be keyboard (Made in Thailand).
Did they just change back and use Thai keyboard again, or they just didn't update the FRU part number for keyboard (Made in China)?

Leon · #64 Post by **Leon** » Mon Jul 19, 2004 3:38 pm

which site did he go to, so he could find parts listing WITHOUT a serial #?

JaimitoBond · #65 Post by **JaimitoBond** » Mon Jul 19, 2004 4:02 pm

It seems for the 14" models, they have discontinued the China KB, or at least the FRU is no longer listed.

taphil · #66 Post by **taphil** » Mon Jul 19, 2004 10:16 pm

I just replaced my China keybaord with the Thai one. I don't really think there's a huge difference with the keys in terms of feel, but it is a bit quieter, which is nice. But the bigger difference between the two is the trackpoint buttons are sooooo much more quiet, smooth, and spongy. They don't creak like the China ones.

c888a · #67 Post by **c888a** » Mon Jul 19, 2004 10:29 pm

To me it is a day and night difference. I have a much better feeling toward the Thai keyboard. It is much more responsivie, quite, making the typing with it very enjoyable. The keyboard Al baseplate is stronger (although I still put several business cards underneath the lower right corner) and the arrow keys in the right hand side are at the same level with other keys. The China arrow keys are higher in comparison. Definitely worth the change.

Notnac · #68 Post by **Notnac** » Tue Jul 20, 2004 11:57 am

On Friday afternoon I ordered the "Made in Thailand" keyboard, FRU 93P4780, for my 15" T42, and this morning (Tuesday) it arrived. As others have reported the bottom plate was perfectly clean compared to the Chinese made one.

Keys are firm with no perceptible or observable flex and the TrackPoint seems a little smoother. Along with the Sony battery replacement which fits with no sloppiness, it is now a pleasure to use my new $2,500 T42.

sonyc · #69 Post by **sonyc** » Tue Jul 20, 2004 1:47 pm

What number did you guys call and option?

Thanks

DrMarco · #70 Post by **DrMarco** » Tue Jul 20, 2004 2:24 pm

Hi all,

the french azerty keyboard of my T41p bought in june is listed as a 08K5029/08K5049. Do you think this is the same as the 08K5044 except for the key layout ?

This keyboard is really nice to use and has no problems with trackpoint keys except that the right side (arrows and enter key) is not well supported and dives slightly when pressed. I guess that I can fix it as explained on this forum.

CAS · #71 Post by **CAS** » Wed Jul 21, 2004 12:20 pm

If anyone is wavering on the keyboard exchange, I highly recommend it. As others have noted, the quality of workmanship between the two is immediately evident. More important, the action on the Thai kb really is much, much better. For me the main factor is key travel - the Thai keys are set closer to the plate, so the feel is firmer, less rattle. Still not quite as smooth as my 600X, but then, nothing is.

Hangfire · #72 Post by **Hangfire** » Thu Jul 22, 2004 1:46 am

RaysMD wrote:BTW, did you know that you can look up the parts installed on your thinkpad with this handy website?

http://www-307.ibm.com/pc/support/site. ... sLookup.vm

now you'll know if you have a Thai keyboard or not.

Thanks RaysMD.

I've got the Thai KB and the Sanyo battery with no rattle.

Most importantly no dead or stuck pixels.

Total happy camper!!!

Thanks Bill!

fireracer7 · #73 Post by **fireracer7** » Tue Aug 10, 2004 11:20 am

I just my 14" Thinkpad T42 yesterday and the entire right side of the keyboard, especially the arrow keys, are demonstrating a lot of flex. I am assuming I unfortunately received the China keyboard. I called up IBM and they were extremely quick to send me out the Thai keyboard. They also sent me out the Recovery CD's. I am awaiting both of those to arrive. I was wondering how difficult it was to replace the keyboard, and if I should do it myself or bring it into a repair depot?

In addition, are there anything else I should order from IBM (Sanyo vs. Sony battery) while still in my 30 days?

Thank you.

cjsuh · #74 Post by **cjsuh** » Tue Aug 10, 2004 11:36 am

It is extremely easy to swap out the keyboard. Your new keyboard will come with instructions. Also, there is an instrutcional video on IBM site (there is also a link somewhere in these forums) that does a good job of explaining it.

I wouldn't worry about swapping out your battery unless you notice something wrong with the one you currently have. There has really been little consensus on which battery is better. It seems to be much more of a one-off circumstance and you may end up getting a battery that is worse than the one you have now.

Humpa · #75 Post by **Humpa** » Tue Aug 10, 2004 12:19 pm

fireracer7 wrote:In addition, are there anything else I should order from IBM (Sanyo vs. Sony battery) while still in my 30 days?

cjsuh seemed to sum it up nicely, but the 30days is just your time limit for a "no reason" return/exchange.
Not sure which model you have, but you have at least a 1yr warranty and you should definately upgrade to the 3yr at some point (if you dont have it already).
IBM will send you a keyboard just as easily next year as they will today.

Matt_ · #76 Post by **Matt_** » Wed Aug 18, 2004 1:22 am

Thank you everyone for all the great info. in this thread !

I've decided on a T42 2373-CWU.
With regards to the Thailand keyboard, there is something that I am not clear on.
When I order the laptop, will I able to tell the IBM sales person, "I want my 2373-CWU to have keyboard FRU # .... ", or am I going to be stuck having to wait and see which keyboard I end up with and then, if necessary, calling IBM to request a replacement Thai keyboard ?

Other question is in regards to an earlier post on page "4"

Conmee Posted: Sun Jul 18, 2004 3:26 am
I ordered a replacement keyboard and specifically specified the China keyboard (for my work machine), and they sent me the Thai keyboard. Looks like the Thai keyboard is being phased out.

Was that a typo and did you mean to say that the "China" keyboard is being phased out ?

Thanks in advance

Leon · #77 Post by **Leon** » Wed Aug 18, 2004 1:41 am

no, you can't specify, it will be a surprise....

yes, China is being phased out (it appears), so you will probably get Thai...

Matt_ · #78 Post by **Matt_** » Wed Aug 18, 2004 2:37 am

Thank you for the reply -- so it sounds like my chances are good for getting a Thailand keyboard.

One more question on a related ordering matter: I've just started reading through the various threads regarding the Sanyo vs Sony batteries. I'm not trying to get this thread off-course; rather, what I was wondering is that if I conclude that it's important to me to have a specific brand of battery, will what you said apply for this, too ? i.e. will I just have to wait and see what brand of battery comes with the laptop and then, if necessary, request the other brand that I wanted ?

Thank you again

Humpa · #79 Post by **Humpa** » Wed Aug 18, 2004 7:04 am

Matt_, there is definately a lot of hype about the battery/keyboard on the new T42's. Originally, it was the people with the 14" T42's that had the problem with the keybd flex. The 15" doesn't seem to have the "flex" issue.
Some people with the 15" even preferred the China made keyboard.
I received my 15" with the China keybd, I had no real issues with it until I removed/replaced it a few times, and then I had some creaking in the trackpoint buttons. So, I ordered the Thai one. The keys do have a better feel to them, but I am certainly holding on to the China one for a backup.

The battery is even more subjective. Many people are reporting that the Sony doesnt really fit any better or worse than the Sanyo. And, again, I think this may have been more of an issue with the 14" form factor. I would never have noticed anything remotely wrong with the fit of the Sanyo battery in my 15" T42 - I can manage to move it, but it is very slight (perhaps as much as 1mm).

Bottom line: just enjoy your new thinkpad, because I know you will.

... if you do have the China keyboard, and you find that you want to try the Thai one, then just call ibm and get one.

Leon · #80 Post by **Leon** » Wed Aug 18, 2004 7:39 am

and, no, you can't request a spcecific battery when ordering, unless it's for an EXTRA battery....

Matt_ · #81 Post by **Matt_** » Thu Aug 19, 2004 4:30 pm

Thank you both for your help. Your points, Humpa, are important ones -- the last thing that I want is to do anything that would take advantage of IBM's generosity by ordering a ___-made keyboard/battery solely because of where it was made.
I just wanted to be sure I understood how to resolve things *if* I received a laptop with parts that definitely had some detectable quality-issue.

gruen · #82 Post by **gruen** » Fri Aug 27, 2004 2:46 pm

Just to add to the excitement-

I just received the thai keyboard replacing my china keyboard (FRU: 93P4810).

The key action is a lot more solid, although the keys make a bit more of a clicking sound (and it's not because i type to hard, it's that you can't really hit a key accidentally) the difference in typing is night and day. If you're considering a new keyboard, but aren't sure, give it a shot-- I think it's totally worth it. Comparison of fingerprints on the back tells all (thai has none, china's looks like the entire population contributed to the construction of your keyboard.)

Oh- the better part is that the ultranav's left mouse button actually feels like a button as opposed to a loose tooth!

So- if you're having doubts- do it. My 2 cents.

cwrulawguy · #83 Post by **cwrulawguy** » Wed Sep 08, 2004 10:24 pm

I was so unhappy with my keyboard's noise and the left trackpoint mouse button and the right hand side flex UNTIL I read this thread. I spoke with IBM on the last day of my 30 day period and got the Thai keyboard (if the guy didn't mess it up) coming plus the restore cd's.

I am looking forward to less clickety times in class. Funny sotry though, this guy actually requested the prof move him so that he wouldn't have to withstand my typing. He said he might have ADD though, so who knows...

Anyhow, THANK YOU to all who have contributed to this *former* lurker!

ZPrime · #84 Post by **ZPrime** » Wed Sep 08, 2004 11:38 pm

has anyone in here typed on an A2x? I *loved* the keyboard on my A22m. The one on my 15" T42p is the "China" keyboard - it feels ok to me but not as nice as the one on the A-series.

I don't know WTF you people mean about flex - if you've got keyboard flex, maybe you didn't assemble it properly? My keyboard doesn't flex, the keys just feel more "wimpy" than the A-series. The A keyboard had this EXCELLENT feel - somewhat spongy, but also stiff enough to not have a loud clicking noise. This China KB feels like cheaper plastic on top of a similar key mechanism... so it is "clicky" but still has the feel of a membrane switch rather than a mechanical (like the IBM model M).

I'm trying to figure out if the T-series "Thai" keyboard has a feel closer to what I enjoyed on the A22m. Any ideas?

cwrulawguy wrote:I am looking forward to less clickety times in class. Funny sotry though, this guy actually requested the prof move him so that he wouldn't have to withstand my typing. He said he might have ADD though, so who knows...

Heh, get used to it man. You're at CWRU. (Or should I say CASE?) You'll find people who love technology, and on the other end of the spectrum, people who are so anal retentive and techphobic it isn't even funny.

In case you can't tell, I'm a CWRU grad.

I was in Weatherhead... I imagine Law is worse. Wish I had this T42 during my classes in PBL...

jmaynard · #85 Post by **jmaynard** » Thu Sep 09, 2004 3:24 am

I have a T41 2373-GEU, just got it a couple of days ago - love it

After reading this thread and checking my keyboards FRU (china) I decided to call and see if I could get the thai one, mostly due to the audible loudness of typing on it and a somewhat loose left navtrack button. Maybe it was my fault for calling at 1:15am PDT but the tech I talked to in Atlanta (where it was like 4am) tried, several times, to convince me that the keyboard was not field replacable (!?), and that they'd have to send me an empty box for me to send my whole laptop back to them, where they would replace it. Finally I told him "no thanks" and will try again tomorrow, and hopefully get a more awake tech

One question - has anyone running really intensive DX9 apps (read: games) noticed a heat increase while using the thai keyboard? My T41 levels out at about 74c when playing DX9 games (BF:V, Tribes Vengeance beta, etc) with my china keyboard. Anyone notice any heat diff. between china and thai keyboards?

jdm

conniec · #86 Post by **conniec** » Sun Sep 12, 2004 11:41 am

I had the same problem as the last poster. I called to say my T41 keyboard doesn't fit well, hoping the rep would just offer to send me a new one. When he didn't, I mentioned that I heard many thinkpad owners had problems traced to a particular part number, and that perhaps
it could be replaced with the newer version (my is the China version). The rep claimed not to know what I was talking about and suggested I send my laptop back, even though I bought the onsite warranty (in the U.S).

My 30 day return period ends this week. I'd rather not have to return it, but how do I get past the IBM rep?

Humpa · #87 Post by **Humpa** » Sun Sep 12, 2004 12:24 pm

conniec, just call back. IBM will send you a keyboard as long as you are under warranty. Tell them there is a problem with it, and you want another one sent to you. Is there a key that doesnt work consistently? Perhaps a squeeking left/right/center trackpoint button?

Also, those reps don't have info on where the keyboards were made - so, most of them won't know what you are talking about. They should just come and read here.

BTW, welcome to these Forums ...

conniec · #88 Post by **conniec** » Mon Sep 13, 2004 12:29 pm

Humpa, thanks for your advice. It took a few more calls but IBM is finally sending me a new keyboard (the "Thai" version) via overnight courier. It pays to be persistent!

And thanks for the welcome, I think I've already read every post in the archive and already picked up some great tips. I'm sure I'll have more questions in the future.

Connie

Matt · #89 Post by **Matt** » Mon Sep 13, 2004 6:30 pm

I just got off the phone with them, just said that the keyboard flexes downward in the lower right corner as if it wasn't properly supported, they said no problem and are sending a new keyboard overnight. Didn't mention the China/Thai thing at all.

SloMo · #90 Post by **SloMo** » Tue Sep 14, 2004 5:48 pm

Just wondering if you have to specify to IBM that you want the "Thai" keyboard when asking for a replacement or will they just automatically send you the "Thai" one? My 30 days is almost up and Im planning on giving them a call.

Thanks

Mo

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A Huge Thank You to my fellow Thinkpadders!

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