Maybe I'm dumb?

[thinkpad1]

I feel really stupid right now. I was putting together my laptop (after replacing wireless card) with help but it was my fault since I should have instructed better and been better prepared. Long story made short, I used the wrong screws and two went through. Also, keyboard doesn't work properly as some keys don't register.

I feel even worse that I am posting this embarrassment but I am hoping someone could advise. I want to buy a new laptop so I can forget this experience and have one that works. I wanted to learn how to do laptop repairs but I guess this failure might help me learn how not to do something stupid.

Actually, I wanted a 2nd laptop anyway but now it will my main/only one? I was wondering about whether to get the same one or go for a T60 or T61.

I had a T41 with SVGA screen (1400x1050) and ATI 9000 card. I was getting used to the resolution and liked it. I was all set to replace the HDD with a larger capacity and maybe even add a RAM stick to get 2GB. I liked this computer but I am wondering if I should go for a more powerful machine like a T60 or T61.

What should I do? Please save the insults or pm me that I'm a dummy. I don't need to read it publicly as I already know I was an idiot to not go slow and realize what I was doing.

I ordered screws and had everything; I had some pictures (PDF) plus I was using the Lenovo videos. I forget to measure the screw sizes and got mixed up. There was an extra long screw included in the bag....anyway, please advise.

I like the T400/T500 but might be out of my price range and the T41 was fine but the T60/T60p/T61/T61p sounds cool but maybe a lot of die-hard Thinkpad enthusiasts prefer the T4x series or like both or?????

Thanks for any recommendations/advice and if you sugarcoat your criticism, then that is good, too. I'm sure repairing/replacing parts on the Thinkpad is one of the easiest things for you but I guess I didn't have my vitamins that day.

[RealBlackStuff]

How about repairing the damage?
Would be a lot cheaper than buying a new/other laptop.
A malfunctioning keyboard can be replaced.
A palmrest with screwholes (if that's what it is) can be replaced.
Together those parts probably cost less than $50.-
Read the HMM real good, and make a note next time, which screw goes where...

[poshgeordie]

Hi TP1 and good to hear from you again

It can be sorted so take a step back, have a stiff drink (if you're of legal age, and have one anyway if you're not!), put your feet up and read the PM I've sent you.