IBM ThinkPad Laptop T42 : eBay Guides

The T42 is the last of the T-series laptops IBM released before merging with Lenovo. (IBM/Lenovo offers a range of laptops including - in order of processing power - Z series,  R series, T series, and the new/elite X series with Intel dual-core processor.)  Having recently upgraded from an IBM T23 ThinkPad to the T42,  I can honestly report that the T42 is a fast, quality machine. If you like to have the newest/latest/greatest, you'll want to look at the Lenovo X60, but if you are looking for a really good, really fast laptop in a more affordable range, you can't do much better for your money than this laptop.

As a Web programmer, I need to have a machine that can (1) stay on all the time without crashing or burning out, (2) handle multiple enterprise-level applications all open at the same time without freezing (i.e., Word, Photoshop, script and database editors, etc.),  (3) manage my wireless connection automatically, and (4) is highly reliable, flexible, and easy to upgrade as needed.  The T42 has roughly three times the processing power of the T24, and handles a demanding workload flawlessly.

Also available (and well worth the price) is the port replicator - a "dock" you slip the laptop into that allows you to use the laptop with a standard mouse, keyboard and monitor just like a standard desktop or portable workstation model. NOTE: There is a difference between a dock, ultradock and a port replicator. You may want to visit lenovo.com to read up on these options before you choose one.

The T-series laptops have several non-standard upgrades to look for and consider as you compare auctions:

• CompuTrace LoJack - this is a subscription-based (annual) tracking service that guarantees return of a lost or stolen laptop or a refund of the subscription fee.
• Security features: Typically one of the following - Smart Card reader, security cable lock, fingerprint reader, or the branded SafeGuard PrivateDisk (tier I - IV). With or without any of these options, all T-series laptops give you the ability to password protect your user ID, CMOS, and your hard drive with unique passwords - a significant and important feature you will definitely want to take advantage of.
• Removable disk/storage devices - there are a range of data storage read/write options available for T-series laptops. You can also buy additional drives that can be swapped with the push of a button. The best value for your money is the standard Combo V Ultrabay Slim Drive, which reads/writes CDs and reads DVDs.

When it comes to computers, I am not a brand snob, but I do care about performance and reliability. Older IBM systems (especially the 386-generation desktops) were well-known to be "proprietary" systems, meaning once you went with IBM, you had to stay with IBM-branded parts for any upgrades you wanted. This is no longer the case. I would still recommend sticking with a single product brand unless you really know your computer components, but that is true of every brand out there.

The base technical specs for the standard T42 are:

• Processor: Intel Pentium M Processor 750 (1.86GHz, 2MB L2, 533MHz FSB)
• Operating system: Genuine Windows XP Professional
• Display type: 15.0 inch XGA TFT (1024x768)
• Memory: 512MB PC2-4200 DDR2 SDRAM
• Hard drive: 40GB 5400rpm EIDE
• Optical device: ThinkPad 24X/24X/24X/8X MAX CD-RW/DVD-ROM Combo V Ultrabay Slim Drive
• Integrated communication: Integrated Gigabit Ethernet and 56K V.92-designed modem
• Integrated WiFi wireless LAN: Intel PRO/Wireless 2200GB
• Battery: 6-cell Lithium Ion (also available in optional 9-cell)

I recommend selecting a model with at least 1GB SDRAM (over the standard 512MB), but otherwise, the base T42 laptop is a good quality system that can do a lot of multitasking and handle a lot of constant use without freezing or crashing. This system's memory and processing speed are more than adequate for students, programmers, and casual Internet users. Now that they are not the "newest and greatest" in laptops, they are highly affordable and a great value.  (You shouldn't spend more than around $800 for a T42 with 1GB RAM.)

Comments or questions? Suggestions? Please feel free to email me! I am always open to new ideas and other opinions!