T30 BIOS Upgrade

[Mr. Bum Bam]

I am currently using an IBM T30 with Windows XP SP3 (BIOS version 2.03). I want to upgrade to BIOS version 2.10. The Thinkpad site recommends that I have an AC adapter and a chrged battery to do the upgrade. However, I currently don't have a functioning battery. I would like to know if it is absolutely necessary to have a battery for the BIOS upgrade. I would probably have to buy one if that's the case.

Thank you.

Also, can anyone tell me how to check which MiniPCI card is in my computer?

[rkawakami]

Is it absolutely necessary to have a charged, working battery for a BIOS upgrade? Yes, unless you want to take a chance of "bricking" your system. In the unlikely event that the system loses power during the firmware upgrade, it can result in the system never booting again (that is, without replacing the motherboard). There have been some workarounds detailed before which will allow you to perform the upgrade but I personally cannot recommend them.

MiniPCI card can be checked by opening up the (larger) panel on the bottom of the system. I think it's the one which has three screws holding it in. Sorry, TWO screws; the third one slips through a hole in the panel.

ref: http://www-307.ibm.com/pc/support/site. ... MIGR-42308 (HMM for the T30)

[Mr. Bum Bam]

Thanks for the advice. Responses here are so fast and efficient!!

Thanks again!!