My T40p Screen started getting wierd lines... GPU Solder?

[phaxmohdem]

The other day when I had my T40p on my lap working, the screen started going "fuzzy" with lots of little lines periodically when I had my hands on the palm rest. I know these models are susceptible to the solder joints on the GPU failing... I'm hoping this isn't the case... but wanted to check.

If it is... can I swap out the motherboard for a better one? say a T43p or something? (I have the 14.1" model) Do all T4x series motherboards have the same issues?

[Harryc]

Your machine has the loose GPU problem. You have several options, from board replacement, to GPU reflowing, to GPU reballing. The boards within the T4X series are interchangeable, so that is not an issue. If you use a T43 board then you start to get into having to change other parts, like CPU and RAM. GPU reflowing is probably the least expensive option, but you will be without your machine for a few weeks.

[phaxmohdem]

Hmmmm... That sucks. I looked around eBay a bit, but I don't know if its really work replacing the motherboard at this point.

I was kinda planning on waiting for the new Thinkpad refresh to come out in January and possibly upgrading to something with a Core i5/i7 if those are made available anyway. I guess this just gives me some extra incentive.

This laptop and I have had a good run (6+ years). I hate to see it end this way.

[RealBlackStuff]

For $45.- you can have it reballed, a very worthwhile option. I had very good experience there. Mention you are from TPF.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?Vi ... K:MEWAX:IT

[phaxmohdem]

Wow, thanks for the link. That is pretty darn economical. What are the odds of this issue cropping up again after reballing?

Also, My Thinkpad suffers from the USB 2.0 only running at 1.1 speeds issue, is that a chipset reballing/reflow issue that could be fixed by this company?

[RealBlackStuff]

They do Southbridge reballing as well, for the same price.
That would add up to $90.- already.
Contact them to see if you get a discount for both GPU/Southbridge reballing.
Otherwise a replacement mobo?