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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.
March 7th, 2009 at 3:17 pm
Needed to replace the keyboard. Thanks for the detailed help!
March 7th, 2009 at 3:35 am
Of all the sites viewed to upgrade RAM, this was the most precise and clearly presented information available.Going from 256mb to 2GB is like owning a new notebook!
Thank You.
March 3rd, 2009 at 5:29 am
Thanks!!! i was woundering where that annoying 256mb memory is hiding
February 21st, 2009 at 9:34 am
Hi,
THANK YOU!! I never thought that I’d tackle the job of upgrading memory myself – but the steps necessary were so clearly posted that I knew that I could do it. Also, thank you for saying exactly what RAM I needed to buy.
You made something that was so alien to me simple.
THANK YOU!!!
February 17th, 2009 at 1:00 pm
This tutorial gets 5 stars! Outstanding! Thank you!
February 10th, 2009 at 4:27 pm
Really helpful instructions. Thanks
February 4th, 2009 at 1:01 am
IBM has had a habit of being conservative on memory and you might try low density modules in any of the TPs. I had trouble with a pc2700 in my t41 and when I installed a pc2100 it worked fine. I also had a problem with HI Density PC133 in a a20 and had to buy LO Density modules. HI density works in a t23 but not in the a Series.
January 26th, 2009 at 7:29 am
Just insall 2 identical RAM modules of exactly the same specification (brand and speed, size etc.) and this will allow dual channel operation.
January 23rd, 2009 at 10:45 am
Ray
so how do you fix this issue?
January 21st, 2009 at 1:07 pm
To Roger:
Using 2 Identical Ram modules will allow it to work in Dual Channel, currently you are in single channel mode and the issue you are having maybe because part of what your system is trying to read from Ram might be split between the 2 rams, and locks up trying to access large data.