X2x antennas same for BT & WiFi models + WiFi Upgrades

[underclocker]

Quick question, X23's and X24's optionally came with Bluetooth OR WiFi (never both). It's clear from the IBM literature that models with WiFi have the typical dual antennas around the LCD, but it's hard to tell what was used for the Bluetooth models. Was it just one unique antenna lead or the exact same LCD antenna setup from the WiFi option with only one lead connected to the Bluetooth daughter card?

If you remove the keyboard on a Bluetooth equipped model, is there a spare lead available?

If it does have one or both antennas, does it also have the antenna cover plates that are typically found on the left and right sides of the LCD bezel?

[underclocker]

I just picked up a mint X24, model 2662-MLU, Bluetooth model with WinXP COA. The answer is YES to all of the above.

The LCD assembly for the Bluetooth models is the same as for the wireless models, with two antenna leads and the plastic inserts on either side of the LCD top cover.

Under the keyboard, the right antenna lead (usually called the "Aux" lead) is connected to the Bluetooth CDC adapter. The left antenna lead is there with the connector covered by masking tape. It is resting next to the combo modem / Ethernet mini-PCI adapter.

I will probably remove the combo adapter and install a wireless G mini-PCI adapter. And attach to the available "main" antenna lead.

I will have an X24 with both WiFi and Bluetooth (but no modem or Ethernet, although I can use a PC Card for that, if needed).

BTW, there is also a mechanical button on the right hinge cover above the keyboard for turning the Bluetooth on/off - and a Bluetooth LED just above on the hinge cover with the battery and standby LED's. Very interesting touch.

[underclocker]

Done. Upgading to internal WiFi was quite simple since the antenna was already there.

I removed the combo modem/Ethernet mini-pci adpater (under keyboard) and replaced it with a Broadcom B/G mini-pci adapter. I connected the single "main" antenna lead to the adapter's main antenna connector, leaving the adapter's aux connector vacant.

The machine booted without any issues or warnings (the no-1802 error hack was not required). I installed generic Broadcom drivers and everything works as it should. Reception seems fine.

[underclocker]

Another X24 update...I worked out an excellent X24 configuration for now;

mini-pci slot -> Broadcom b/g WiFi adapter
CDC slot -> IBM BDC Bluetooth adapter
PC Card slot -> 3Com 3CXFEM656C Combo XJack 10/100 & modem (which use the same XJack connector for either!)
CD slot -> SD to CF adapter card for access to SD cards

All good, so far. When I need USB 2.0, I swap the 3Ccom ard for a USB 2.0 PC Card.

[underclocker]

Additional internal WiFi adatper information...testing shows the following;

For X23's & X24's (don't have an X22 for testing anymore)

-Broadcom BCM94306MP B/G works fine w/o no-1802 hack
-IBM (Atheros) B/G works fine w/o no-1802 hack
-Intel 2200B/G works fine w/o no-1802 hack

-IBM (Atheros) A/B/G Adpater II seems to install fine but then shows this error in device manager This device cannot start. (Code 10), I tried several, in both X23 and X24, can not get to work

Notes: With Ethernet CDC also installed, too many Ethernet controllers error message is displayed when the IBM B/G adapter is used, ESC key bypasses issue, but is required on each boot. Removing Ethernet CDC resolves errror message issue. Broadcom B/G and Intel B/G adapters do not cause this error. It has something to do with the firmware of the adapters, the Atheros models report themselves as Ethernet adapters and the others as Network adapters (I think).

[wilsonhs]

* X21 user here

Well, instead of replacing the LAN combo to B/G WIFI,
I rather using a USB 802.11G receiver by ASUS
Its much better for me to use USB thumb recevier, other than installing a PCMCIA Lan card, and its much cheaper.
Only costed me $160HKD (EST USD22) and its a brand new good.
and still the Lan function keep(I am always moving from desk to living room , shuffling between LAN and Wifi)

I do believe that this solution is better than sacrificing the build in LAN and a PCMCIA Slot indeed, and the receiving ability is quite gd by the USB receiver( 800sq feet apartment with 4walls between the Wireless Router and my room and still 60% transmitting rate which i am using an old 11mps 802.11B router. )

Hope guys and other boardmates may treat as reference solution

[underclocker]

USB WiFi adapters are a very good, quick and inexpensive option.

However, some people don't want anything protruding from their machines.

Additionally, since the X2x's only have USB 1.1 ports, the throughput is limited to 12Mb/s - versus a "G" adapters theoretical maximum of 54Mb/s. This will reduce data transfer speeds, on a home network, transfering digital photographs for instance, but shouldn't affect Internet browsing much, unless you have a connection higher than 12Mb/s - like Verizon FIOS.

A USB WiFi adapter is tough to beat at only $20 - but for some, not ideal.