just got a near new IBM T40

[imported_mashimaro]

T40 2374
-------
P M 1.5GHz,
512MB RAM,
40GB 5400rpm HDD,
14.1 SXGA+(1400x1050) TFT LCD,
32MB Radeon 7500,
16x10x24x/8x CD-RW/DVD,
Bluetooth/Modem(CDC),
1Gb Ethernet(LOM),
IBM 802.11a/b/g Wireless(MPCI),
Secure Chip(TCPA),
6 cell battery (3 hours)
IBM 3 year warranty

I got this and it was barely used. I have a few questions.

How do you activate the security chip? I am afraid of
getting it stolen if I leave alone at the library. I have one of those locks with a wire that I can run around a chair
leg or whatever. I would like to know what else I can do to deter thieves.

Do you think there is 1 stick of 512 RAM in there or 2x 256? I opened up the middle bay and saw just one slot. I don't think that
is where the RAM is located. Is anyone upgrading to 1 GB? do you see any difference?

I sold the toshiba laptop I got from staples for 600 over a year ago. Compare to IBM, that Toshiba was so flimsy. At first the outter
appearance of the IBM did stand out at all, but after using it for a couple weeks, this laptop is very solid.

I checked the warranty and it's covered until 4/07. Do I need to transfer the warrarnty?

Do you guys think $800 is a good deal? That was the first offer I gave the guy. I didnt know he was going to
take it. If I knew that I would have offered lower, maybe $700

 

[WackyDan]

I got just a minute........

You enable the security chip through the bios. It may already be enabled, though the bios also will give you the option to clear it which won't harm anything seeing as you are not using it currently.

You will also need to head on over to IBM.com and download the CLient Security SOftware and some other pieces of software to make this thing work right.

So Download the following:

1. Atmel Driver
2. SMBus Driver
3. CSS(Client security software) -latest version.
4 Password Manager - found further down the page.
5. File and folder protection... Download.. but don't install this one.. .We'll talk more laterz....

You essentially install in that same order.

The Chip and CSS can do many wonderful things... but the software/interface is a bit clunky.

The basic function it provides is extra layers of authentication to the local machine.

It can encrypt local data either by manual interaction with that data or you can automate that by folder. ( I don't recommend this)
It can provide password management in the form of single log on for all your web sites and applications that require a us id and or password.

It can support specific smart cards, biometric readers, RF badges, RSA Token replacement, Tivoli Access Manager, and more.

It's a Enterprise class solution that really isn't ideally used in a consumer space.

I've been running this software since it was in beta, and every version since then. I can't stress enough that this solution is a RTFM -read the f'in manual experience. If you screw up with the ESS/CSS combo - it's very much like screwing up with Microsoft's EFS as noted at the top of the OS catagory here at AT.

I would be more than happy to walk you through it in more detail including some phone coaching. It is neat... it works. The ESS will not prevent your laptop from being stolen though.... It will prevent unauthorized access to you system and data. - after-all 70% of all data theft and tampering happens loaclly at the machine.

I'll check back with you later.

 

[xcrunner51]

i think thats a pretty badass deal for a Thinkpad

 

[SKC]

you got a fantastic deal; congratulations.

Don't leave it unattended at the library. Please.

 

[imported_FishTaco]

Yeah, I second the don't leave it unattended. That security chip isn't gonna stop someone from picking up your laptop and walking away with it.