Used A31 For $275 - Good Deal?

[nikki605]

I've owned a T21 for years and have been posting over in that forum. This week, I saw this ad in a local newspaper:

Laptop, IBM Think Pad, P4, XP, 512MB, 1.6gig, $275.

I called and started asking questions. Found out it is an A31 and has a 20GB HDD. When I heard 20GB, I stopped asking questions so I didn't get the full model number to look up in the tawbook to get the original configuration. And, I don't know what condition it is in, I would have to go see it.

I know nothing about the A31, but it looks like it came with 11b wireless and I don't know if it can be upgraded to 11g or not.

My initial reaction was that I would at least have to upgrade the HDD and the wireless (if possible) and probably add more memory.

What do you think? Is this a good deal or not for an A31?

I'm not looking to spend $275 and then have to spend that much again in upgrades. My T21 is working fine, I just like the original IBM Thinkpads and I keep my eye out for local used TPs.

[Harryc]

I think you can probably do much better in the Marketplace forum here.

[qviri]

It's not horrible, but it's not great either. I know the marketplace here has had better deals, because I bought one. Ask about the screen resolution and overall condition.

[sjthinkpader]

The A31/A31p are great machines with lots of upgrade possibilities:

2GB max RAM
Pentium 4-M 2.6Ghz max (std is 2.0Ghz max)
UXGA resolution max
TWO Ultrabays
WiFi and BT capable
DVI output (A30p/A31p only)

The only drawback is the USB1.1 ports. Many people including I are using USB2.0 PCCards. I am using 802.11n cards in my machines.

If you don't move your machine much, they are great.

[nikki605]

Thanks for the replies.

I think I'll pass on the A31. I don't need another laptop, but I thought if it was a really good deal, I might go for it.

I have the same problem with my T21 - only a single USB1.1 port. That's why I have the Belkin USB2.0 card.

Thanks again and have a great 4th of July