On Monday 21 September 2009 00:11:12 Michael Burk wrote:
> Hi All,
>
> After years of using OpenBSD on servers, I want to take the plunge and
> setup an OpenBSD-based laptop. From what I gather on this list, it
> looks like ThinkPads are better supported than most. I've been looking
> at two models - the ThinkPad T400 and T400s. I've tried to determine
> if all the components are supported, but I'm not sure about some
> things. If anyone has direct experience with these models (they've
> been out for a year or so, I think), I'd appreciate any feedback.
>
> Here's what I've determined about support:
>
> CPU: Intel Core2 Duo (SP9600 or T9600) - yes; use AMD64 arch?
> ATI Mobility Radeon 3470 - yes
> - or -
> Intel GMA 4500MHD - ?
> UltraNav (TrackPoint and TouchPad) - probably
> DisplayPort video port for external monitor - ?
> (I'd like to be able to have two separate screens configured,
> though video mirroring would be OK)
> Intel WiFi Link 5300 - yes
> Sound card (no specs available) - ?
> Bluetooth - yes through ports
> 5 in 1 or 7 in 1 Media Card Reader - standard USB storage device?
> Integrated camera - no
> Fingerprint reader - no
>
> One serious drawback is that I can't find a place locally that sells
> them, so I can't find out how they feel, sound, or how good the screen
> looks. I'd appreciate any comments about these aspects also.
>
> Thanks,
> Michael
Michael,
I've been running OpenBSD exclusively on Thinkpads since 1999. They
are pretty much the most OpenBSD compatible laptops, and the
best built laptops.
I can attest to the T60p being good ('till it was stolen) and I currently
have a W500, of which everything works except for the winmodem
and fingerprint reader (mine doesn't have it, except that the hardware
is still there). The W500 is a kick ass system.
Neal Hogan helped me last fall when I was determining the hardware
compatibility of the W and T lines. I believe the only thing he doesn't
have is the wireless card working, which could be solved any number
of ways.
The HD Audio system that Thinkpads have are awesome, through the
azaila(4) driver. I am ecstatic with that. I have the 5300 working
trough iwn(4). Not sure about the camera.
The T400s/T500s I've bought I haven't had time to test with OpenBSD
but see Neal's mail on that. Like Neal, I'd recommend the machine,
or the W500 if you can afford it. Note that the W700s are all Nvidia
so stay away from them.
--STeve Andre'
