IBM or Intel 802.11 a/b/g mini-pci compatibility with T40p

[davidashaw]

Hi,
My issue may have already been addressed, however I couldn't find it while reading through the forum messages. I have a T40p non-Centrino model with the IBM a/b mini-pci card installed. With the introduction of the T41 with the IBM a/b/g mini along with the new T42 and with the upcoming Intel Centrino version of the a/b/g recently announced by Intel, can I install and use either of these cards in my T40p and would they be fully compatible? If so, where might I purchase the card and specific software if required?

I really would like to have the 802.11g capability using the computer's built in mini-pci slot and antenna structure versus buying a plug-in PCMCIA card as an alternative.

Sorry if this is a repeat question.

Thanks,

David

[G-Man]

The new Intel a/b/g wont work in your TP. You have to wait until IBM releases its own version, which will be compatible with the ThinkPads’ BIOS. I would just swap your current IBM a/b MiniPCI with an IBM a/b/g card. Although officially you are not allowed to exchange the wireless card in the T40p, you can easily do it, or you can send it in to IBM.

Regards,
G-Man

[davidashaw]

Thanks G-Man,

I'm assuming that the IBM a/b/g card is the same one presently used in both the T-41 and T-42 models. The reason I brought up the compatibility issue is that I remember reading on Bill's site back when the IBM a/b/g card was first coming out on The T-41 models that somebody was putting out information that it would not be backward compatible with the T40 / T40p. I guess that this has all been sorted out now. Is there any specific drivers that I need to be aware of to download and install after I switch the Mini-PCI cards? Is there any compatibility issues that I should be concerned about particularly when unsing the 802.11g mode of operation? Will I need a bios upgrade for the T40p to recognize and accept this card?

David

[sktn77a]

Yes, there's an updated driver for the a/b/g card. If you have an older T40, you will need to update the BIOS and Embedded Controller first (see the installation notes with the driver and/or card). The a/b card replacement is tedious - IBM don't want you to do it so they used screws with special security Torx heads

Check back on his forum - there have been several posts on where to get the special security Torx driver.

[davidashaw]

Must the IBM 802.11 a/b/g Mini-PCI card be purchased from IBM directly or may it be purchased from other sources? How much does it cost? Can anyone provide me the IBM part number for this card?

David

[G-Man]

IBM 11a/b/g Mini PCI

Prices:
http://www.pricegrabber.com/search_getp ... ch=31P9701

http://www.bizrate.com/marketplace/sear ... sk--3.html

At IBM you get free shipping, but they also charge you tax.

By the way about this special screw thing, read this thread.

Regards,
G-Man

[davidashaw]

Thanks all, I purchased the card last night and will be looking forward to it's arrival in the next few days. I believe I have a set of the Torx screwdrivers or bits. I use to own a Chevy S-10 Blazer which used the same type screws. Again, thanks for your help. I will post again to report on how the installation process went.

David

[WilsonF]

I put an IBM a/b/g card in my T40p. I think that the size of torx screw was #7, if I recall correctly.