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Using this guide you’ll be able to replace or upgrade memory modules (aka RAM) in IBM ThinkPad T40, T40p, T41, T41p, T42, T42p series laptops. In my case I’ll be working with a ThinkPad T41.
This laptop came with 512MB RAM installed. There are two 256MB memory modules installed. One of them can be easily accessed from the bottom of the laptop. The second module is hidden under the keyboard.
Before you start, turn off the laptop, unplug the adapter and remove the battery.
Removing RAM module located on the bottom.
First of all, remove the memory cover.
Spread latches located on both sides of the memory module until the module pops up at a 30 degree angle, as it shown on the picture below.
Grab the memory module by the edges and pull it from the slot.
Removing RAM module located on under the keyboard.
The second memory slot is located under the keyboard, so we’ll have to remove the keyboard first.
Remove four screws securing the keyboard.
Insert a small flathead screwdriver between the keyboard and palm rest and carefully lift up the keyboard.
Place the keyboard on the palm rest so you can access the cable.
Disconnect the keyboard cable from the motherboard. Now you can access the second memory module.
Remove the internal memory module the same way you removed the first one.
On the picture below you can see the original module.
According to the official hardware maintenance manual for ThinkPad T40/T40p, T41/T41p, T42/T42p, these laptops can take up to 2GB memory total. You can install up to 1GB memory module into each slot.
You should use PC2700 (DDR-333) 200-Pin SODIMM RAM.
October 6th, 2010 at 8:01 am
KHappe,
Thank you for your comment.
That’s what I thought. Apparently, you have to find memory which is “certified” for this laptop.
October 6th, 2010 at 7:49 am
I borrowed an older version of the Kingston memory and it worked.
So
Kingston Technology KVR333X64SC25/1G PC2700 1GB ValuRAM CL2.5 SODIMM Memory
works and
Kingston ValueRAM 1GB 333MHz PC2700 DDR1 Notebook Memory (KVR333SO/1GR)
does not work
October 6th, 2010 at 7:07 am
I tried a different brand of memory, and I have the same issue. I guess I have a faulty T42.
October 1st, 2010 at 1:07 pm
khappe,
It’s hard to tell what’s going on.
There is a chance that this is some kind of compatibility issue between laptop motherboard and memory brand you are trying to use.
In a case like that I would test the laptop with different RAM brand.
I’ve seen compatibility issues before (with different laptop brands) but it’s not very common.
October 1st, 2010 at 10:17 am
Each memory module tests out completely fine. I have also ran the Thinkpad’s PC Doctor against the memory( both installed, booted from PC Doctor CD). But it locks up just a few seconds after the OS starts up. The behavior existed in XP and I installed Win 7 and it happens there to.
September 30th, 2010 at 8:02 am
KHappe,
Did you try reseating memory modules? Maybe one of the is not connected properly.
Try memory modules one at a time in different slots.
September 30th, 2010 at 7:42 am
I have the latest version of the bios and the Embedded controller. From what I can tell I have installed all of the latest versions of bios, drivers etc.
September 29th, 2010 at 10:01 am
KHappe,
Find out if there is a newer version of BIOS available for downloads.
Try updating the BIOS.
September 29th, 2010 at 7:07 am
I am experiencing the same lockup after upgrading to 2GBs.
Anyone have a solution for the 2GB lockup on the T42s?
September 18th, 2010 at 12:44 pm
Hi – I currently have a T41 with 768Mb RAM installed. I’m considering upgrading to 2GB – do you think it’d be worth it?