replacing system board on TP 390x

[rabouk]

My thinkpad 390x PIII 450Mhz freezes frequently, I did BIOS upgrade
with no luck, I am planning to replace system board, I appriciate any tips
in that regards.

[G-Man]

Have you upgraded the memory recently?

Regards,
G-Man

[Bruce Guttman]

A freezing computer is often the result of heat buildup. Here are a few things that may work without replacing the System Board:

1. Make sure the fan and its ductwork are free of dust. You may need to use a micro-vacuum or can of compressed air to blow it out.

2. When you run the computer, make sure where you are working does not block the air duct to or from the fan.

3. When you are "inside" the computer, check the connection of the fan to its source of power. This could be a problem. Also, make sure the fan turns freely. It may just be the fan has failed and that is your problem.

If you are going to crack open your laptop, make sure you have downloaded the Hardware Maintenance Manual for your model, and have the teardown diagrams available either as hard copy or on another machine.

One other point: if you are going to disassemble and reassemble your laptop, don't overtighten the screws. IBM uses a plastic coated screw that deforms slightly at the proper torque setting so that it stays in place. If you don't use new screws where recommended, it may be prudent to place a dot of lacquer to keep the screw from loosening.

Hope this helps.