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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.
May 18th, 2012 at 3:57 pm
Daniel,
I believe it has to be spread out over both slots, which means that it’s 1 GB max per slot. The laptop itself has a maximum of 2 GB so I think that even if you tried to put 2 GB in each slot, it either wouldn’t boot up or it would max out at 2 GB RAM.
March 28th, 2012 at 4:54 am
In your blog, use PC2700 (DDR – 333) – PIN SODDIM RAM to upgrade the notebook Think pad models T40/T40P, T41/T41P, T42/T42P. But teh datasheet of the Think pad T40 said that must be used DDR SDRAM SO-DIM (PC2100). Also like to know if the 2GB range in a single slot, or are spread over both. Thanks for your help
November 13th, 2011 at 7:10 am
Hi!
Thank you for the useful informations!
Regards, antivirtel
October 14th, 2011 at 10:54 pm
So what brand has been proven to be 100% compatible. Kingston?
August 18th, 2011 at 8:12 am
I just replace memory ram 1gb in the bottom only.It worked but I have got so many error message what should I do?
May 15th, 2011 at 9:30 am
chris,
Turn on the laptop. When it boots to the desktop, Right-Click on My Computer (or Computer) and click on Properties.
The installed memory should be reported in the system properties.
If you see more RAM reported, it means it’s installed properly.
May 13th, 2011 at 8:31 am
i installed a second 512mb memory module in my t41 ibm think pad, how can i check if it was sucsessfully installed?
January 24th, 2011 at 6:02 am
Thank you for showing how to remove the keyboard!!!!! The instructions at the Lenovo website were wrong, and I was getting frustrated trying to follow their directions!
December 17th, 2010 at 9:19 pm
hi do they have to be matching pairs or u can put one 256 and one 1g
October 19th, 2010 at 7:08 am
I have a Kingston Technology RAM 1GB 333MHz PC2700 DDR1 (KVR333SO/1GR, same as KHappe’s, but Tech, not Value) and it works great on my T40p; guess that the Kingston Value is not compatible