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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.
December 28th, 2008 at 12:52 am
Roger,
Here’s what you can try. Remove memory modules one by one and test your laptop with both memory modules installed into different slots.
If your laptop works fine with the original 512MB module installed into both slots but locks up with the 1GB module, it’s possible that your new module is defective.
If your laptop works fine with both modules installed into the first slot but locks up with both modules in the second slot, it’s possible that you have a faulty memory slot.
talbert said:
Yes, it could be compatibility issue, but before you buy another module I would try my suggestion.
Also, you can remove the 512MB module and run Memtest86+ on the 1GB module. If the module fails test, it’s bad.
December 28th, 2008 at 12:45 am
Rory,
You don’t have to remove the keyboard in a ThinkPad T20 because both memory slots can be accessed through the bottom door.
According to the hardware and maintenance manual, there are many different optional hard drives listed for this model, up to 60GB drives. Check out the page 171. By the way, in the same manual you’ll find instructions accessing both memory slots.
December 27th, 2008 at 11:19 pm
Hi Roger.I think your 1GB memory card might not be compatible with your original one.It is said that it’s better to choose the same type memory module on the old laptop because of the compatibility ,or choose the memory with good performence in compatibility.Try another brand,kingston is a good choice
December 27th, 2008 at 6:00 pm
I installed 1 gb in the bottom slot making a total of 1.5 gb now. laptop locks up on occasion now where it didnt do this at all with the 512mb memory. any ideas on what could be causing this?
December 27th, 2008 at 9:40 am
Hi, an excellent tutorial, i was wondering would a similiar process be followed for an IBM Thinkpad t20 as the T40s laptops to upgrade memory. Also how would you increase the c hard drive memory on this laptop?, i want to hold on to the laptop but the memory is small 512mb and the c drive has only 6gb.
December 26th, 2008 at 4:41 pm
Hi,
These instructions were very helpful for the upgrade.
Thanks
December 23rd, 2008 at 11:11 pm
After waiting so long, finally I found “short & clear”, step by step tutorial. Thanks, I appreciate it.
December 17th, 2008 at 11:27 am
I appreciate it thanks.
Gord
December 17th, 2008 at 11:00 am
Gord,
You can replace just one memory card on in the bottom easily accessible slot. If you install a 1GB module, your laptop will see 1.25GB total
December 17th, 2008 at 10:30 am
Hi…just wondering, if there are two 256mb installed, do I have to replace both or can I just replace the easily accessible one with a 1g card?
Many thanks