ThinkWiki - User contributions [en]

Installing Debian on a ThinkPad T420

2015-04-05T08:26:48Z

Dgriffi: /* Discrete Graphics versus Integrated Graphics */ add mesa-utils and correct a command line option

==The machine==
This is a {{T420}} that I bought secondhand off Ebay in December of 2013. I opted to buy this instead of a new Thinkpad because I dislike the new 6-row keyboards and the buttonless trackpads. This is its configuration:

* Intel® Core™ i5-2520M (2.5GHz, 3MB L3, 1333MHz FSB)
* Discrete NVIDIA NVS 4200M (1GB VRAM) with [[Switchable Graphics|Optimus™ Technology]]
* UEFI BIOS Version 83ET76WW (1.46)
* 4GB DDR3 - 1333MHz main memory
* 14.0" HD+ (1600 x 900) (230 NITS) TFT display
* Intel® 82577LM Gigabit (Hanksville) Digital Office ethernet adapter
* Intel Centrino Advanced-N 6205 (Taylor Peak) 2x2 AGN WLAN adapter

==Installation==
===Preparing a Bootable Flash Drive===
I installed Debian 7.3.0 (Wheezy) from a bootable flash drive. The process of creating bootable flash drive is described [http://661.org/articles/flashinstall.html here]. It is helpful to add [http://packages.debian.org/wheezy/all/firmware-iwlwifi/download firmware-iwlwifi] to this drive so wireless networking can work while you're installing. The installer will notice this and install it automatically.

===Installing ''wicd'' With Preseed===
A helpful extra step is to use preseeding to have ''wicd'' installed automatically and to add the first user added to the ''sudo'' group. With ''wicd'' you can easily connect to a WiFi access point without a GUI. Create a text file named ''preseed.cfg'' on the flash drive and put the following in it:

d-i passwd/user-default-groups string cdrom floppy sudo audio dip \
video plugdev netdev scanner bluetooth
d-i pkgsel/include string sudo wicd-curses wicd-cli

At the bottom of the aforementioned instructions on making a bootable flash drive are instructions on getting the ''preseed.cfg'' file installed to the drive.

When you boot into your new system, remember that you need to explicitly tell ''wicd'' what the wireless LAN device is. Use the {{cmdroot | ifconfig}} command to check what it is. This turned out to be ''wlan0'' for me, but it might be different if you have a different interface.

Preseeding is a great way to preselect what you want an install to do, saving you time and aggravation. Read more about it [https://wiki.debian.org/DebianInstaller/Preseed here] and [http://www.debian.org/releases/stable/i386/apbs02.html.en here]. As demonstrated here, you don't have to have a long and drawn-out preseed.cfg file.

===Booting the Flash Drive===
Plug in your bootable flash drive and turn on your T420. Quickly press F1 to get into the BIOS. Check to make sure that booting from a USB flash drive is enabled. Don't change its priority. If you changed anything, save and exit to reboot the machine. Quickly press F12 to get a boot menu and select the flash drive. The Debian installation process will then begin.

===Not Installing a GUI===
After answering questions about what keyboard you have, timezone, root password, first user, and so on; you will be shown a menu of software to install. There are ten options. "Debian Desktop Environment", "Print server", "Laptop", and "Standard system utilities" should be preselected for you. If you don't care for Gnome3, deselect "Debian Desktop Environment". That will yield a machine with no GUI at all. Detailed below is the procedure for installing MATE.

The remaining steps of the install process are uneventful. You will end up with a bootable and usable system.

==Post-Install Configuration==
===MATE Desktop===
Add this line to /etc/apt/sources.list:
deb http://packages.mate-desktop.org/repo/debian/ wheezy main
Then update your APT cache
{{cmdroot | apt-get update}}
Install the MATE keys with
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-archive-keyring}}
and press 'Y' when you're asked if your sure. Then do:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-desktop-environment}}
This installs the basic environment. If you want more, do:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-desktop-environment-extra}}
Now, if you don't want to install ''gdm3'', you'll need to install the xinit package:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install xinit}}
This will enable you to start an X session by typing "startx".

===Sleep and Hibernate===

Install the packages ''hibernate'' and ''nvram-wakeup''. The ''thinkpad'' and ''nvram'' modules should automatically install without needing to list them in /etc/modules. After a reboot, the '''Fn-F4''' and '''Fn-F12''' key combinations will cause suspend-to-RAM and hibernate-to-disk respectively.

===Discrete Graphics versus Integrated Graphics===

Make sure you have ''Nvidia Optimus'' and switchable graphics enabled in the BIOS. Then install Bumblebee.

Read [https://wiki.debian.org/Bumblebee this] from the Debian wiki about Bumblebee. This tool is now included in the Debian repos. Basically, it boils down to this:

Add this line to /etc/apt/sources.list:
deb http://YOURMIRROR.debian.org/debian wheezy-backports main contrib non-free

Do ''apt-get update'' and then install linux headers as shown below. It is important that you do this before installing anything else related to Bumblebee or else the ''bbswitch'' module won't be built and ''optirun'' will not run. The official Debian howto doesn't mention this:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install linux-headers-$(uname -r)}}

Now you can install Bumblebee. Do it like this:

{{cmdroot | apt-get install -t wheezy-backports bumblebee-nvidia primus mesa-utils}}

This specifies that you want to use the proprietary drivers. Remove ''-nvidia'' from ''bumblebee-nvidia'' if you want the open-source ones. If you want to install i386 libs, do this instead:

{{cmdroot | dpkg --add-architecture i386}}
{{cmdroot | apt-get update}}
{{cmdroot | apt-get install -t wheezy-backports bumblebee-nvidia primus primus-libs:i386 mesa-utils}}

Edit ''/etc/bumblebee/bumblebee.conf'' and look for the "[driver-nvidia]" section. There you will see a line that looks like this:
KernelDriver=nvidia

Change that to:
KernelDriver=nvidia-current

Reboot your T420. Then start an X11 session. Start a terminal emulator and type:
optirun glxgears -info

Unfortunately glxgears is a very poor test of 3D acceleration. http://unigine.com has several benchmarks of varying sophistication and cost (some are free as in beer). These benchmarks will yield good results if the quality is set to "low". Another good benchmarker is ''glxspheres'' which can be found at http://sourceforge.net/projects/virtualgl. If you install the .deb file, the binaries will be installed to ''/opt/VirtualGL/bin''.

You might want to explicitly tell Bumblebee to use the ''primus'' acceleration/rendering bridge rather than ''auto''. See the line that begins with "Bridge=primus".

Laptop video interfaces are always rather poor compared to desktop ones, so don't be disappointed when your top-of-the-line laptop pales in comparison to a desktop in the graphics department.

====If You Break Something====

I managed to break Bumblebee by following some bad advice on getting 32-bit libraries installed so I can run 32-bit binaries with the Nvidia GPU. I installed the "install libgl1-nvidia-glx:i386" package. To get out of this, I did

{{cmdroot | apt-get remove bumblebee bumblebee-nvidia}}

{{cmdroot | apt-get autoremove}}

{{cmdroot | apt-get install -t wheezy-backports bumblebee-nvidia primus primus-libs:i386}}

{{cmdroot | apt-get install -t wheezy-backports xserver-xorg-video-nvidia}}

{{cmdroot | apt-get install xserver-xorg-video-intel}}

Reboot and all should be well.

If this doesn't work, you may also need to check ''/etc/bumblebee/bumblebee.conf''. Look for the ''LibraryPath'' and ''XorgModulePath'' variables. For paths ending in ''nvidia'', and ''/current''.

===Integrated Webcam===

Skype immediately noticed the camera and used it without trouble.

Installing Debian on a ThinkPad T420

2014-12-12T01:55:44Z

Dgriffi: /* Installation */ Update dead link

==The machine==
This is a {{T420}} that I bought secondhand off Ebay in December of 2013. I opted to buy this instead of a new Thinkpad because I dislike the new 6-row keyboards and the buttonless trackpads. This is its configuration:

* Intel® Core™ i5-2520M (2.5GHz, 3MB L3, 1333MHz FSB)
* Discrete NVIDIA NVS 4200M (1GB VRAM) with [[Switchable Graphics|Optimus™ Technology]]
* UEFI BIOS Version 83ET76WW (1.46)
* 4GB DDR3 - 1333MHz main memory
* 14.0" HD+ (1600 x 900) (230 NITS) TFT display
* Intel® 82577LM Gigabit (Hanksville) Digital Office ethernet adapter
* Intel Centrino Advanced-N 6205 (Taylor Peak) 2x2 AGN WLAN adapter

==Installation==
===Preparing a Bootable Flash Drive===
I installed Debian 7.3.0 (Wheezy) from a bootable flash drive. The process of creating bootable flash drive is described [http://661.org/articles/flashinstall.html here]. It is helpful to add [http://packages.debian.org/wheezy/all/firmware-iwlwifi/download firmware-iwlwifi] to this drive so wireless networking can work while you're installing. The installer will notice this and install it automatically.

===Installing ''wicd'' With Preseed===
A helpful extra step is to use preseeding to have ''wicd'' installed automatically and to add the first user added to the ''sudo'' group. With ''wicd'' you can easily connect to a WiFi access point without a GUI. Create a text file named ''preseed.cfg'' on the flash drive and put the following in it:

d-i passwd/user-default-groups string cdrom floppy sudo audio dip \
video plugdev netdev scanner bluetooth
d-i pkgsel/include string sudo wicd-curses wicd-cli

At the bottom of the aforementioned instructions on making a bootable flash drive are instructions on getting the ''preseed.cfg'' file installed to the drive.

When you boot into your new system, remember that you need to explicitly tell ''wicd'' what the wireless LAN device is. Use the {{cmdroot | ifconfig}} command to check what it is. This turned out to be ''wlan0'' for me, but it might be different if you have a different interface.

Preseeding is a great way to preselect what you want an install to do, saving you time and aggravation. Read more about it [https://wiki.debian.org/DebianInstaller/Preseed here] and [http://www.debian.org/releases/stable/i386/apbs02.html.en here]. As demonstrated here, you don't have to have a long and drawn-out preseed.cfg file.

===Booting the Flash Drive===
Plug in your bootable flash drive and turn on your T420. Quickly press F1 to get into the BIOS. Check to make sure that booting from a USB flash drive is enabled. Don't change its priority. If you changed anything, save and exit to reboot the machine. Quickly press F12 to get a boot menu and select the flash drive. The Debian installation process will then begin.

===Not Installing a GUI===
After answering questions about what keyboard you have, timezone, root password, first user, and so on; you will be shown a menu of software to install. There are ten options. "Debian Desktop Environment", "Print server", "Laptop", and "Standard system utilities" should be preselected for you. If you don't care for Gnome3, deselect "Debian Desktop Environment". That will yield a machine with no GUI at all. Detailed below is the procedure for installing MATE.

The remaining steps of the install process are uneventful. You will end up with a bootable and usable system.

==Post-Install Configuration==
===MATE Desktop===
Add this line to /etc/apt/sources.list:
deb http://packages.mate-desktop.org/repo/debian/ wheezy main
Then update your APT cache
{{cmdroot | apt-get update}}
Install the MATE keys with
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-archive-keyring}}
and press 'Y' when you're asked if your sure. Then do:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-desktop-environment}}
This installs the basic environment. If you want more, do:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-desktop-environment-extra}}
Now, if you don't want to install ''gdm3'', you'll need to install the xinit package:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install xinit}}
This will enable you to start an X session by typing "startx".

===Sleep and Hibernate===

Install the packages ''hibernate'' and ''nvram-wakeup''. The ''thinkpad'' and ''nvram'' modules should automatically install without needing to list them in /etc/modules. After a reboot, the '''Fn-F4''' and '''Fn-F12''' key combinations will cause suspend-to-RAM and hibernate-to-disk respectively.

===Discrete Graphics versus Integrated Graphics===

Make sure you have ''Nvidia Optimus'' and switchable graphics enabled in the BIOS. Then install Bumblebee.

Read [https://wiki.debian.org/Bumblebee this] from the Debian wiki about Bumblebee. This tool is now included in the Debian repos. Basically, it boils down to this:

Add this line to /etc/apt/sources.list:
deb http://YOURMIRROR.debian.org/debian wheezy-backports main contrib non-free

Do ''apt-get update'' and then install linux headers as shown below. It is important that you do this before installing anything else related to Bumblebee or else the ''bbswitch'' module won't be built and ''optirun'' will not run. The official Debian howto doesn't mention this:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install linux-headers-$(uname -r)}}

Now you can install Bumblebee. Do it like this:

{{cmdroot | apt-get install -t wheezy-backports bumblebee-nvidia primus}}

This specifies that you want to use the proprietary drivers. Remove ''-nvidia'' from ''bumblebee-nvidia'' if you want the open-source ones. If you want to install i386 libs, do this instead:

{{cmdroot | dpkg --add-architecture i386}}
{{cmdroot | apt-get update}}
{{cmdroot | apt-get install -t wheezy-backports bumblebee-nvidia primus primus-libs:i386}}

Edit ''/etc/bumblebee/bumblebee.conf'' and look for the "[driver-nvidia]" section. There you will see a line that looks like this:
KernelDriver=nvidia

Change that to:
KernelDriver=nvidia-current

Reboot your T420. Then start an X11 session. Start a terminal emulator and type:
optirun glxgears --info

Unfortunately glxgears is a very poor test of 3D acceleration. http://unigine.com has several benchmarks of varying sophistication and cost (some are free as in beer). These benchmarks will yield good results if the quality is set to "low". Another good benchmarker is ''glxspheres'' which can be found at http://sourceforge.net/projects/virtualgl. If you install the .deb file, the binaries will be installed to ''/opt/VirtualGL/bin''.

You might want to explicitly tell Bumblebee to use the ''primus'' acceleration/rendering bridge rather than ''auto''. See the line that begins with "Bridge=primus".

Laptop video interfaces are always rather poor compared to desktop ones, so don't be disappointed when your top-of-the-line laptop pales in comparison to a desktop in the graphics department.

====If You Break Something====

I managed to break Bumblebee by following some bad advice on getting 32-bit libraries installed so I can run 32-bit binaries with the Nvidia GPU. I installed the "install libgl1-nvidia-glx:i386" package. To get out of this, I did

{{cmdroot | apt-get remove bumblebee bumblebee-nvidia}}

{{cmdroot | apt-get autoremove}}

{{cmdroot | apt-get install -t wheezy-backports bumblebee-nvidia primus primus-libs:i386}}

{{cmdroot | apt-get install -t wheezy-backports xserver-xorg-video-nvidia}}

{{cmdroot | apt-get install xserver-xorg-video-intel}}

Reboot and all should be well.

If this doesn't work, you may also need to check ''/etc/bumblebee/bumblebee.conf''. Look for the ''LibraryPath'' and ''XorgModulePath'' variables. For paths ending in ''nvidia'', and ''/current''.

===Integrated Webcam===

Skype immediately noticed the camera and used it without trouble.

Unofficial maximum memory specs

2014-09-24T16:23:13Z

Dgriffi: /* Working memory configurations */

Some ThinkPads are known to support more memory than their specs say. This page gathers information about those models, how much memory they can take and what special requirements that memory must fulfill.

Have a look at the [[Memory]] page for the official memory configs and partnumbers

==Working memory configurations==
The following table gives an overview of tested memory configurations that exceed the specified limits for that ThinkPad type.

{| border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2"
! ThinkPad !! Official Max !! Unoffical Max !! BIOS !! Embedded Controller !! Memory configuration successfully tested
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| ThinkPad {{A31p}} 2653-R8U || 1 GB || 2 GB || 1.10 || 1.05 ||
2 x Elpida 1 GB 200-pin DDR PC2700, FRU # 31P9835
|-
| ThinkPad {{A31p}} 2653-R?? || 1 GB || || 1.09 || 1.05 ||
2 x Kingston 1GB 200-Pin DDR, Model# KTM - TP9828/1G
|-
| ThinkPad {{SL500}} || 4 GB || 8 GB || ?.?? || ?.?? ||
2 x 4GB 200-Pin DDR2 PC2-5300
|-
| ThinkPad {{T30}} 2366-92U || 1 GB || || 2.08 || 1.06 ||
2 x Kingmax 1GB 200-Pin DDR SO-DIMM DDR333 PC2700, Model# MSAD42D-KI 
:But causes [[:Category:T30#Kernel_Panic|kernel to panic at boot]]. 
2 x Generic Brand 1GB 200-pin DDR SO-DIMM PC2700 (p/n 89898E):
:BIOS recognizes 2048MB, but Gentoo sees only 1024MB
|-
| ThinkPad {{T42}} [[2373-CTO]] || 2 GB || || 3.17 || 3.04 ||
???
|-
| ThinkPad {{T42}} [[2373-CTO]] || 2 GB || || 3.23 || 3.04 ||
???
|-
| ThinkPad {{T43p}} 2668-WTB || 2 GB || || 1.29 || 1.06 ||
* 2 x Kingston 1GB 200-Pin 533MHz DDR2, Model KTM-TP3840/1G DDR2
|-
| ThinkPad {{T61}} 6466-9MG || 4 GB || 8 GB || [[BIOS_Upgrade#Alternative_BIOS:_Middleton_BIOS|2.29 middleton (SATA-II modified)]] || 1.08 ||
2 x Crucial 4GB 200-Pin 800MHz DDR2, Model # CT51264AC800. (PC2-6400)
|-
| ThinkPad {{T61p}} 6457-5GG || 4 GB || 8 GB || 2.19 || 1.08 ||
2 x Kingston 4GB 200-Pin 667MHz DDR2, Model # KTL-TP667/4GB.
|-
| ThinkPad {{T61p}} 6460-EEG || 4 GB || 8 GB || 2.27 middleton (SATA-II modified) || 1.08 ||
2 x Samsung SODIMM 4GB PC2-5300 DDR2-667, Model # M470T5267AZ3-CE6 / 4GB.
|-
| ThinkPad {{T61p}} 6457-7XG || 4 GB || 8 GB || 2.26 || 1.08 ||
2 x Crucial 4GB 200-Pin 800MHz DDR2, Model # CT51264AC800. (PC2-6400)
|-
| ThinkPad {{T61p}} 6457-BQG || 4 GB || 8 GB || 2.27 || 1.08 ||
2 x Corsair 4GB 200-Pin 800MHz DDR2, Corsair ValueSelect SO-DIMM 4GB PC2-6400S CL6 VS4GSDS800D2 G .
|-
| ThinkPad {{T61p}} 6459-CTO || 4 GB || 8 GB || 2.26 || 1.08 ||
2 x G.Skill 4GB 200-Pin 800MHz DDR2, Model # F2-6400CL6D-8GBSQ (PC2-6400)
|-
| ThinkPad {{T61p}} 6460-8YG || 4 GB || 8 GB || 2.26 || 1.08 ||
2 x Crucial 4GB 200-Pin 667MHz DDR2, Model# CT2KIT51264AC667 ( 2x CT51264AC667)
|-
| ThinkPad {{T61p}} 6460-DVU || 4 GB || 8 GB || 2.26 || 1.08 ||
2 x G.Skil 4GB 200-Pin 667MHz DDR2, Model# F2-5300CL5D-8GBSQ, CL5-5-5-15, PC2-5300
|-
| ThinkPad {{T61p}} 8889-3FG || 4 GB || 8 GB || TBA || TBA ||
2 x Kingston 4GB 200-Pin 667MHz DDR2, KVR667D2S5/4G.
|-
| ThinkPad {{X31}} 2672-C2G || 1 GB || || 3.02 || 1.08 ||
* 2 x 1GB Kingston KVR400X64SC3A/1G DDR400MHz. Newer documentation also states 2GB, but original one did not.
* Boots with 1 bar.
|-
| ThinkPad {{X31}} 2673-C2G || 1 GB || || 3.02 || 1.08 ||
* 2 x 1GB (Team Group Inc. TSDR1024M400 DDR400MHz)
* Boots with 1 x TSDR1024M400
|-
| ThinkPad {{X41}} 2525-CTO || 1.5 GB || 2 GB || 2.09 || 1.02 ||
* 1 x 2GB ( ??? )
BIOS claims 2.5 GB. Diagnostic POST and memtest86+ both test only 2 GB. Linux and Windows XP recognize 2 GB.
|-
| ThinkPad {{X41}} 2528-5FU || 1.5 GB || || 2.09 || 1.02 ||
* 1 x 2GB (Transcend TS2GIB3847 DDR2 667 MHz)
* 1 x 2GB (FRU 73P3846 DDR2 PC2-4200)
BIOS claims 2.5 GB. Diagnostic POST tests only 2 GB. Linux and XP recognize 2 GB.
|-
| ThinkPad {{X41}} 2525-F8G || 1.5 GB || 2 GB || 2.06 || 1.01 ||
* 1 x 2GB (Crucial CT25664AC667 DDR2 PC2-5300)
BIOS claims 2.5 GB. Diagnostic POST and memtest86+ both test only 2 GB. Linux and Windows XP recognize 2 GB.
|-
| ThinkPad {{X41_Tablet}} 1866-6HU || 1.5 GB || || 2.03 || 1.02 ||
* 1 x 2GB (Transcend JM667QSU-2G DDR2 667 MHz)
BIOS claims 2.5GB. Diagnostic POST tests only 2GB. Linux and Windows XP recognize 2GB.
|-
| ThinkPad {{X61}} 7675-K2U || 4 GB || 8 GB || ?.?? || ?.?? ||
Kingston 8GB (set of 2x4GB) 200-Pin DDR2, KVR667D2S5K2/8G ''Equivalent to 2 x Kingston KVR667D2S5/4G''
|-
| ThinkPad {{X61s}} 7666AK7 || 4GB || 8GB || 2.16 || 1.03 ||
2 x Generic 4GB DDR2 SODIMM (200 pin) 667Mhz PC2 5400 / PC2 5300 CL 5.0
|-
| ThinkPad {{X61t}} 7764-CTO || 4 GB || 8 GB || 1.23 || ?.?? ||
2 x Generic 4GB 200-Pin DDR2.
|-
| ThinkPad {{X61t}} 7762-94G || 4 GB || 8 GB || 1.23 || 1.02 ||
2 x Kingston 4GB 200-Pin DDR2, KVR667D2S5/4G.
|-
| ThinkPad {{X61t}} 7762-95G || 4 GB || 8 GB || 1.23 || 1.02 ||
2 x Kingston 4GB 200-Pin DDR2, KVR667D2S5/4G. Ubuntu 10.10 64bit shows installed memory size of 7,7 GiB.
|-
|ThinkPad {{X100e}} 3508-CTO || 4GB || 8GB || 1.29 || 1.22 ||
2 x G.Skill 4GB 200-Pin 800MHz DDR2, Model # F2-6400CL6D-8GBSQ (PC2-6400)
|-
|ThinkPad {{X120e}} 0596-CTO || 4GB || 8GB || ?.?? || ?.?? ||
2 x Kingston KVR1066D3S7/4G = 8GB SODIMM DDR3 1066MHz CL7
|-
| ThinkPad {{X200}} 7459-W2H || 4 GB || 8 GB || 3.13 || 1.06 ||
2 x KVR1066D3S7/4G.
|-
| ThinkPad {{X200}} 7459-GH6 || 4 GB || 8 GB || 3.22 || 1.07 ||
2 x Samsung M471B5273DM0-CH9 = 2x4GB SODIMM DDR 1333MHz
|-
| ThinkPad {{X200s}} 7466-9QG || 4 GB || 8 GB || 3.11 || 1.06 ||
2 x KVR1333D3S9/4G.
|-
| Thinkpad {{X200s}} 7465-RH6 || 4 GB || 8 GB || 2.08 || 1.04 ||
2 x SP008GBSTU133V22/4G
|-
| ThinkPad {{X220}} 4290-2WG || 8 GB || 16 GB || 8DET58WW (1.28) || 8DHT29WW (1.13) ||
2 x Micron CT102464BF160B.C16FER = 2x8GB SODIMM DDR3 1600MHz
|-
| ThinkPad {{240}} 2609-40U || 320MByte || || IRETWWW76 || n/a ||
* Any PC100 256MB memory in 16-chip configuration
|-
| ThinkPad {{240X}} || 256MByte || || unknown || n/a ||
* Some PC100 256MB memory in 16-chip configuration may work. Chipset cannot handle more than 256MB
|-
| ThinkPad {{570}} 2644-3AU || 320MB || || 1.16 IMET65WW 11/11/99 || n/a ||
* Kingston KTM-TP390X/256 256MB MODULE FRU 16P6327 - 16 chips, 8 each side
|-
| ThinkPad {{600}} ? || 288MB || || ? || ? ||
* 416MB = 256MB '''low density''' PC100 SODIMM + 128MB PC66 SODIMM + 32MB PC66 on-board. It matters which SODIMM you put in which slot. This was first reported working on the [http://zurich.csail.mit.edu/hypermail/thinkpad/2004-04/0797.html Thinkpad Mailing List], and it worked error-free for me.
The 600E (2645-8A0) with Bios INET36WW accept two modules
of 256MB.
The ram modules have 8 chips on each side.
That results in 544MB. (RAM Typ: Micron MT16LSDF3264HG-133E4 PC133 CL3 sync).
Processor is an Intel PII 366 PE, installed platform is Windows XP Pro with SP3.
|-
| ThinkPad {{770X}} 9549|| 448MB || || 1.11 IIET42WW 09/10/99 || n/a ||
* 448MB = 256MB PC100 + 128MB PC66 + internal 64MB using IBM 256MB MODULE FRU 33L3070 PC100 CL2 - 16 chips, 8 each side
* 512MB = 2 x 256MB PC100 + 64MB internal booted up as well. 512MB is due to 440LX-Chipset limitations, 64MB are overlapping or unused.
|-
|}

==Non-working memory configurations==
{| border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2"
! ThinkPad !! max. Specs !! BIOS !! Embedded Controller !! Memory configuration unsuccessfully tested
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| ThinkPad {{A21m}} || 512MB || ? || ? ||
* 2 x Microx 144-pin 512MB PC133 SDRAM SODIMM 32x16 8C
* 1 x Microx 144-pin 512MB PC133 SDRAM SODIMM 32x16 8C
* 1 x Microx 144-pin 512MB PC133 SDRAM SODIMM 32x16 8C
:+ 1 x 144-pin 256MB PC133 SDRAM SODIMM
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| ThinkPad {{T61p}} 6460-DVU || 4GB || 7LETC7WW (2.27) 04/08/2010 || 1.08 || 6GB: 
      4GB: Micron MT16HTS51264HY 
      2GB: Kingston KTH-ZD8000C6 
Passed Windows Memory Diagnostic (Standard), 
but system became slightly unstable, app crash every 1-2 hours, 
failed Lenovo Toolbox memory test.
|-
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| ThinkPad {{T43}} || 3GB || 1YET62WW (1.27 ) || 1YHT29WW-1.06 || 3GB: 
      2GB: Micron 
      1GB: Kingston 
In 2+1 configuration system doesn't starts (black screen constantly).
In 1+2 configuration system works, but sees only 2GB in BIOS and Linux.
|-
| ThinkPad {{X200s}} || 4GB || 3.17 || 1.06 || 8GB: 
      4GB: Kingston 
      4GB: Kingston 
0 + 4: System starts but stops before bootloader (GRUB). 
4 + 4: System starts, OS boots. But several issues: 
''Segmentation faults'': Memory intensive apps crashing randomly (eclipse) 
''WLAN instability issues'': driver keeps disconnecting under load 
''Graphic card errors'': [drm:i915_hangcheck_hung] *ERROR* Hangcheck timer elapsed... GPU hung
|-
| ThinkPad {{X201}} 3680-PBG || 4GB || 6QET70WW (1.40) || 6QHT34WW (1.15) || 8GB: 
      4GB: Corsair 1333MHz 9-9-9-24 1.5v (CMSO4GX3M1A1333C9) 
      4GB: Corsair 1333MHz 9-9-9-24 1.5v (CMSO4GX3M1A1333C9) 
All combinations (4+4, 4+0 and 0+4 with either module in either slot): 
Can enter BIOS, memory amount displays correct. 
Memtest86+ corrupts display and reboots <1sec after test start. 
Reboots immediately after kernel decompressed.
|-
|}

==External Sources==
* [http://www-307.ibm.com/pc/support/site.wss/document.do?lndocid=MIGR-55644 IBM's official Memory compatibility page]

Installing Debian on a ThinkPad T420

2014-04-11T22:03:43Z

Dgriffi: /* If You Break Something */

==The machine==
This is a {{T420}} that I bought secondhand off Ebay in December of 2013. I opted to buy this instead of a new Thinkpad because I dislike the new 6-row keyboards and the buttonless trackpads. This is its configuration:

* Intel® Core™ i5-2520M (2.5GHz, 3MB L3, 1333MHz FSB)
* Discrete NVIDIA NVS 4200M (1GB VRAM) with [[Switchable Graphics|Optimus™ Technology]]
* UEFI BIOS Version 83ET76WW (1.46)
* 4GB DDR3 - 1333MHz main memory
* 14.0" HD+ (1600 x 900) (230 NITS) TFT display
* Intel® 82577LM Gigabit (Hanksville) Digital Office ethernet adapter
* Intel Centrino Advanced-N 6205 (Taylor Peak) 2x2 AGN WLAN adapter

==Installation==
===Preparing a Bootable Flash Drive===
I installed Debian 7.3.0 (Wheezy) from a bootable flash drive. The process of creating bootable flash drive is described [http://hyper.to/blog/link/debian-installer-on-a-usb-key/ here]. It is helpful to add [http://packages.debian.org/wheezy/all/firmware-iwlwifi/download firmware-iwlwifi] to this drive so wireless networking can work while you're installing. The installer will notice this and install it automatically.

===Installing ''wicd'' With Preseed===
A helpful extra step is to use preseeding to have ''wicd'' installed automatically and to add the first user added to the ''sudo'' group. With ''wicd'' you can easily connect to a WiFi access point without a GUI. Create a text file named ''preseed.cfg'' on the flash drive and put the following in it:

d-i passwd/user-default-groups string cdrom floppy sudo audio dip \
video plugdev netdev scanner bluetooth
d-i pkgsel/include string sudo wicd-curses wicd-cli

At the bottom of the aforementioned instructions on making a bootable flash drive are instructions on getting the ''preseed.cfg'' file installed to the drive.

When you boot into your new system, remember that you need to explicitly tell ''wicd'' what the wireless LAN device is. Use the {{cmdroot | ifconfig}} command to check what it is. This turned out to be ''wlan0'' for me, but it might be different if you have a different interface.

Preseeding is a great way to preselect what you want an install to do, saving you time and aggravation. Read more about it [https://wiki.debian.org/DebianInstaller/Preseed here] and [http://www.debian.org/releases/stable/i386/apbs02.html.en here]. As demonstrated here, you don't have to have a long and drawn-out preseed.cfg file.

===Booting the Flash Drive===
Plug in your bootable flash drive and turn on your T420. Quickly press F1 to get into the BIOS. Check to make sure that booting from a USB flash drive is enabled. Don't change its priority. If you changed anything, save and exit to reboot the machine. Quickly press F12 to get a boot menu and select the flash drive. The Debian installation process will then begin.

===Not Installing a GUI===
After answering questions about what keyboard you have, timezone, root password, first user, and so on; you will be shown a menu of software to install. There are ten options. "Debian Desktop Environment", "Print server", "Laptop", and "Standard system utilities" should be preselected for you. If you don't care for Gnome3, deselect "Debian Desktop Environment". That will yield a machine with no GUI at all. Detailed below is the procedure for installing MATE.

The remaining steps of the install process are uneventful. You will end up with a bootable and usable system.

==Post-Install Configuration==
===MATE Desktop===
Add this line to /etc/apt/sources.list:
deb http://packages.mate-desktop.org/repo/debian/ wheezy main
Then update your APT cache
{{cmdroot | apt-get update}}
Install the MATE keys with
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-archive-keyring}}
and press 'Y' when you're asked if your sure. Then do:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-desktop-environment}}
This installs the basic environment. If you want more, do:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-desktop-environment-extra}}
Now, if you don't want to install ''gdm3'', you'll need to install the xinit package:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install xinit}}
This will enable you to start an X session by typing "startx".

===Sleep and Hibernate===

Install the packages ''hibernate'' and ''nvram-wakeup''. The ''thinkpad'' and ''nvram'' modules should automatically install without needing to list them in /etc/modules. After a reboot, the '''Fn-F4''' and '''Fn-F12''' key combinations will cause suspend-to-RAM and hibernate-to-disk respectively.

===Discrete Graphics versus Integrated Graphics===

Make sure you have ''Nvidia Optimus'' and switchable graphics enabled in the BIOS. Then install Bumblebee.

Read [https://wiki.debian.org/Bumblebee this] from the Debian wiki about Bumblebee. This tool is now included in the Debian repos. Basically, it boils down to this:

Add this line to /etc/apt/sources.list:
deb http://YOURMIRROR.debian.org/debian wheezy-backports main contrib non-free

Do ''apt-get update'' and then install linux headers as shown below. It is important that you do this before installing anything else related to Bumblebee or else the ''bbswitch'' module won't be built and ''optirun'' will not run. The official Debian howto doesn't mention this:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install linux-headers-$(uname -r)}}

Now you can install Bumblebee. Do it like this:

{{cmdroot | apt-get install -t wheezy-backports bumblebee-nvidia primus}}

This specifies that you want to use the proprietary drivers. Remove ''-nvidia'' from ''bumblebee-nvidia'' if you want the open-source ones. If you want to install i386 libs, do this instead:

{{cmdroot | dpkg --add-architecture i386}}
{{cmdroot | apt-get update}}
{{cmdroot | apt-get install -t wheezy-backports bumblebee-nvidia primus primus-libs:i386}}

Edit ''/etc/bumblebee/bumblebee.conf'' and look for the "[driver-nvidia]" section. There you will see a line that looks like this:
KernelDriver=nvidia

Change that to:
KernelDriver=nvidia-current

Reboot your T420. Then start an X11 session. Start a terminal emulator and type:
optirun glxgears --info

Unfortunately glxgears is a very poor test of 3D acceleration. http://unigine.com has several benchmarks of varying sophistication and cost (some are free as in beer). These benchmarks will yield good results if the quality is set to "low". Another good benchmarker is ''glxspheres'' which can be found at http://sourceforge.net/projects/virtualgl. If you install the .deb file, the binaries will be installed to ''/opt/VirtualGL/bin''.

You might want to explicitly tell Bumblebee to use the ''primus'' acceleration/rendering bridge rather than ''auto''. See the line that begins with "Bridge=primus".

Laptop video interfaces are always rather poor compared to desktop ones, so don't be disappointed when your top-of-the-line laptop pales in comparison to a desktop in the graphics department.

====If You Break Something====

I managed to break Bumblebee by following some bad advice on getting 32-bit libraries installed so I can run 32-bit binaries with the Nvidia GPU. I installed the "install libgl1-nvidia-glx:i386" package. To get out of this, I did

{{cmdroot | apt-get remove bumblebee bumblebee-nvidia}}

{{cmdroot | apt-get autoremove}}

{{cmdroot | apt-get install -t wheezy-backports bumblebee-nvidia primus primus-libs:i386}}

{{cmdroot | apt-get install -t wheezy-backports xserver-xorg-video-nvidia}}

{{cmdroot | apt-get install xserver-xorg-video-intel}}

Reboot and all should be well.

If this doesn't work, you may also need to check ''/etc/bumblebee/bumblebee.conf''. Look for the ''LibraryPath'' and ''XorgModulePath'' variables. For paths ending in ''nvidia'', and ''/current''.

===Integrated Webcam===

Skype immediately noticed the camera and used it without trouble.

Installing Debian 7.0 (Wheezy) on a ThinkPad T42

2014-02-12T00:25:58Z

Dgriffi: /* Other Things */ I think I'm done here.

==The machine==
This is a {{T42}} that I ordered brand-new from IBM shortly before the Thinkpad line was sold to Lenovo. Various parts have been changed and upgraded from the stock configuration. This is its current configuration.

*Intel Pentium M 1.70GHz
*2G RAM
*Fujitsu MHU2100AT HD (100G)
*1024x768 LCD panel
*CDRW/DVD combo: HL-DT-ST RW/DVD
*ATI Mobility Radeon 9600
*Intel PRO/Wireless 2200BG
*BIOS version 3.23

==Installation==
I installed Debian 7.0 (Wheezy) from a bootable flash drive. The process of creating bootable flash drive is described [http://hyper.to/blog/link/debian-installer-on-a-usb-key/ here]. It is helpful to add the non-free firmware [http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=firmware-linux-nonfree+0.36+_all.deb package] and wifi firmware [http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=firmware-ipw2x00_0.36+_all.deb package] to this drive so wifi can work as soon as you're done installing. Deselect the option to install a desktop. We'll install MATE instead. The install process is uneventful. You will end up with a bootable and usable system.

When you boot into the new system, go to [http://debgen.simplylinux.ch/ here] and create a sources.list file that's suitable for your geographic location and software needs. I highly reccomend that you select at least Main, Contrib, Non-free, and Security. Put the resulting text in {{path|/etc/apt/sources.list}} and comment out or delete references to a CD repository. Now, if you didn't add them to the flash drive, install firmware-linux-nonfree and firmware-ipw2x00_0 by doing {{cmdroot | apt-get install firmware-linux-nonfree firmware-ipw2x00_0}}.

The ''sudo'' package is not installed because we deselected the desktop packages. These commands will install it and add you to the ''sudo'' group.
{{cmdroot | apt-get install sudo}}
{{cmdroot | adduser <myusername> sudo}}

Now let's get MATE installed. Add this line to /etc/apt/sources.list:
deb http://packages.mate-desktop.org/repo/debian/ wheezy main
Install the MATE keys with
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-archive-keyring}}
and press 'Y' when you're asked if your sure. Then do:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-core}}
This installs the basic environment. If you want more, do:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-desktop-environment}}
For even more:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-desktop-environment-extra}}
Now, if you don't want to install GDM, you'll need to install the xinit package:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install xinit}}
This will enable you to start an X session by typing "startx".

==Wireless==
I prefer using ''wicd'' for controlling network connections. Doing the following as root should install all you need for that {{cmdroot | apt-get install wicd-cli wicd-curses wicd-gtk}}
You will need to explicitly tell ''wicd'' the name of your wireless device name. It won't guess. Go to Preferences and you'll see a section labeled "Network Interfaces". The "Wireless Interface" field is blank. Put ''eth1'' there.

==Sleep and Hibernate==
This will install some packages and dependencies that will allow for presses of Fn-F4 and Fn-F12 to cause sleep and suspend respectively.
{{cmdroot | apt-get install acpid acpi-support hibernate nvram-wakeup}}
Commands will also be installed that allow you to put the machine into sleep or suspend mode at the command line.
That can be done with either of these command:
{{cmdroot | hibernate-ram}}
{{cmdroot | hibernate-disk}}
Make sure the ''thinkpad_acpi'' and ''nvram'' modules are loaded at boot time. We won't load them now because a reboot will be necessary.
{{cmdroot | echo "thinkpad_acpi" >>/etc/modules}}
{{cmdroot | echo "nvram" >>/etc/modules}}
Next, go to {{path | /etc/modprobe.d}} and look at the file radeon-kms.conf. There should be one line in there that reads:
options radeon modeset=1
That '1' there turns on KMS mode for the video interface. This does not work with the T42. Change that '1' to '0'.
{{cmdroot|echo "options radeon modeset=0" > /etc/modprobe.d/radeon-kms.conf}}

You might have a problem with Fn-F12 (see Debian Bug number [http://bugs.debian.org/cgi-bin/bugreport.cgi?bug=704275 704275]). To work around that, edit {{path|/etc/acpi/sleep_suspend.sh}} and replace the call to "pm-hibernate" with "hibernate-disk".

Now reboot so that the kernel picks up of the above ''radeon modeset=0'' setting. Your computer should now go into suspend and hibernation when the appropriate key combination is pressed.

==Other Things==
The ''thinkfan'' package may be desirable for exerting finer control over the CPU fan. The ''tpb'' package may be desirable if you want to use Fn key combinations other than Sleep and Suspend.

Installing Debian on a ThinkPad T420

2014-02-01T08:50:48Z

Dgriffi: /* Discrete Graphics versus Integrated Graphics */

==The machine==
This is a {{T420}} that I bought secondhand off Ebay in December of 2013. I opted to buy this instead of a new Thinkpad because I dislike the new 6-row keyboards and the buttonless trackpads. This is its configuration:

* Intel® Core™ i5-2520M (2.5GHz, 3MB L3, 1333MHz FSB)
* Discrete NVIDIA NVS 4200M (1GB VRAM) with [[Switchable Graphics|Optimus™ Technology]]
* UEFI BIOS Version 83ET76WW (1.46)
* 4GB DDR3 - 1333MHz main memory
* 14.0" HD+ (1600 x 900) (230 NITS) TFT display
* Intel® 82577LM Gigabit (Hanksville) Digital Office ethernet adapter
* Intel Centrino Advanced-N 6205 (Taylor Peak) 2x2 AGN WLAN adapter

==Installation==
===Preparing a Bootable Flash Drive===
I installed Debian 7.3.0 (Wheezy) from a bootable flash drive. The process of creating bootable flash drive is described [http://hyper.to/blog/link/debian-installer-on-a-usb-key/ here]. It is helpful to add [http://packages.debian.org/wheezy/all/firmware-iwlwifi/download firmware-iwlwifi] to this drive so wireless networking can work while you're installing. The installer will notice this and install it automatically.

===Installing ''wicd'' With Preseed===
A helpful extra step is to use preseeding to have ''wicd'' installed automatically and to add the first user added to the ''sudo'' group. With ''wicd'' you can easily connect to a WiFi access point without a GUI. Create a text file named ''preseed.cfg'' on the flash drive and put the following in it:

d-i passwd/user-default-groups string cdrom floppy sudo audio dip \
video plugdev netdev scanner bluetooth
d-i pkgsel/include string sudo wicd-curses wicd-cli

At the bottom of the aforementioned instructions on making a bootable flash drive are instructions on getting the ''preseed.cfg'' file installed to the drive.

When you boot into your new system, remember that you need to explicitly tell ''wicd'' what the wireless LAN device is. Use the {{cmdroot | ifconfig}} command to check what it is. This turned out to be ''wlan0'' for me, but it might be different if you have a different interface.

Preseeding is a great way to preselect what you want an install to do, saving you time and aggravation. Read more about it [https://wiki.debian.org/DebianInstaller/Preseed here] and [http://www.debian.org/releases/stable/i386/apbs02.html.en here]. As demonstrated here, you don't have to have a long and drawn-out preseed.cfg file.

===Booting the Flash Drive===
Plug in your bootable flash drive and turn on your T420. Quickly press F1 to get into the BIOS. Check to make sure that booting from a USB flash drive is enabled. Don't change its priority. If you changed anything, save and exit to reboot the machine. Quickly press F12 to get a boot menu and select the flash drive. The Debian installation process will then begin.

===Not Installing a GUI===
After answering questions about what keyboard you have, timezone, root password, first user, and so on; you will be shown a menu of software to install. There are ten options. "Debian Desktop Environment", "Print server", "Laptop", and "Standard system utilities" should be preselected for you. If you don't care for Gnome3, deselect "Debian Desktop Environment". That will yield a machine with no GUI at all. Detailed below is the procedure for installing MATE.

The remaining steps of the install process are uneventful. You will end up with a bootable and usable system.

==Post-Install Configuration==
===MATE Desktop===
Add this line to /etc/apt/sources.list:
deb http://packages.mate-desktop.org/repo/debian/ wheezy main
Then update your APT cache
{{cmdroot | apt-get update}}
Install the MATE keys with
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-archive-keyring}}
and press 'Y' when you're asked if your sure. Then do:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-desktop-environment}}
This installs the basic environment. If you want more, do:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-desktop-environment-extra}}
Now, if you don't want to install ''gdm3'', you'll need to install the xinit package:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install xinit}}
This will enable you to start an X session by typing "startx".

===Sleep and Hibernate===

Install the packages ''hibernate'' and ''nvram-wakeup''. The ''thinkpad'' and ''nvram'' modules should automatically install without needing to list them in /etc/modules. After a reboot, the '''Fn-F4''' and '''Fn-F12''' key combinations will cause suspend-to-RAM and hibernate-to-disk respectively.

===Discrete Graphics versus Integrated Graphics===

Make sure you have ''Nvidia Optimus'' and switchable graphics enabled in the BIOS. Then install Bumblebee.

Read [https://wiki.debian.org/Bumblebee this] from the Debian wiki about Bumblebee. This tool is now included in the Debian repos. Basically, it boils down to this:

Add this line to /etc/apt/sources.list:
deb http://YOURMIRROR.debian.org/debian wheezy-backports main contrib non-free

Do ''apt-get update'' and then install linux headers as shown below. It is important that you do this before installing anything else related to Bumblebee or else the ''bbswitch'' module won't be built and ''optirun'' will not run. The official Debian howto doesn't mention this:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install linux-headers-$(uname -r)}}

Now you can install Bumblebee. Do it like this:

{{cmdroot | apt-get install -t wheezy-backports bumblebee-nvidia primus}}

This specifies that you want to use the proprietary drivers. Remove ''-nvidia'' from ''bumblebee-nvidia'' if you want the open-source ones. If you want to install i386 libs, do this instead:

{{cmdroot | dpkg --add-architecture i386}}
{{cmdroot | apt-get update}}
{{cmdroot | apt-get install -t wheezy-backports bumblebee-nvidia primus primus-libs:i386}}

Edit ''/etc/bumblebee/bumblebee.conf'' and look for the "[driver-nvidia]" section. There you will see a line that looks like this:
KernelDriver=nvidia

Change that to:
KernelDriver=nvidia-current

Reboot your T420. Then start an X11 session. Start a terminal emulator and type:
optirun glxgears --info

Unfortunately glxgears is a very poor test of 3D acceleration. http://unigine.com has several benchmarks of varying sophistication and cost (some are free as in beer). These benchmarks will yield good results if the quality is set to "low". Another good benchmarker is ''glxspheres'' which can be found at http://sourceforge.net/projects/virtualgl. If you install the .deb file, the binaries will be installed to ''/opt/VirtualGL/bin''.

You might want to explicitly tell Bumblebee to use the ''primus'' acceleration/rendering bridge rather than ''auto''. See the line that begins with "Bridge=primus".

Laptop video interfaces are always rather poor compared to desktop ones, so don't be disappointed when your top-of-the-line laptop pales in comparison to a desktop in the graphics department.

====If You Break Something====

I managed to break Bumblebee by following some bad advice on getting 32-bit libraries installed so I can run 32-bit binaries with the Nvidia GPU. I installed the "install libgl1-nvidia-glx:i386" package. To get out of this, I did

{{cmdroot | apt-get remove bumblebee bumblebee-nvidia}}
{{cmdroot | apt-get autoremove}}
{{cmdroot | apt-get install -t wheezy-backports bumblebee-nvidia primus primus-libs:i386}}
{{cmdroot | apt-get install -t wheezy-backports xserver-xorg-video-nvidia}}
{{cmdroot | apt-get install xserver-xorg-video-intel}}

Reboot and all should be well.

If this doesn't work, you may also need to check ''/etc/bumblebee/bumblebee.conf''. Look for the ''LibraryPath'' and ''XorgModulePath'' variables. For paths ending in ''nvidia'', and ''/current''.

===Integrated Webcam===

Skype immediately noticed the camera and used it without trouble.

Installing Debian on a ThinkPad T420

2014-02-01T08:17:44Z

Dgriffi: /* If You Break Something */

==The machine==
This is a {{T420}} that I bought secondhand off Ebay in December of 2013. I opted to buy this instead of a new Thinkpad because I dislike the new 6-row keyboards and the buttonless trackpads. This is its configuration:

* Intel® Core™ i5-2520M (2.5GHz, 3MB L3, 1333MHz FSB)
* Discrete NVIDIA NVS 4200M (1GB VRAM) with [[Switchable Graphics|Optimus™ Technology]]
* UEFI BIOS Version 83ET76WW (1.46)
* 4GB DDR3 - 1333MHz main memory
* 14.0" HD+ (1600 x 900) (230 NITS) TFT display
* Intel® 82577LM Gigabit (Hanksville) Digital Office ethernet adapter
* Intel Centrino Advanced-N 6205 (Taylor Peak) 2x2 AGN WLAN adapter

==Installation==
===Preparing a Bootable Flash Drive===
I installed Debian 7.3.0 (Wheezy) from a bootable flash drive. The process of creating bootable flash drive is described [http://hyper.to/blog/link/debian-installer-on-a-usb-key/ here]. It is helpful to add [http://packages.debian.org/wheezy/all/firmware-iwlwifi/download firmware-iwlwifi] to this drive so wireless networking can work while you're installing. The installer will notice this and install it automatically.

===Installing ''wicd'' With Preseed===
A helpful extra step is to use preseeding to have ''wicd'' installed automatically and to add the first user added to the ''sudo'' group. With ''wicd'' you can easily connect to a WiFi access point without a GUI. Create a text file named ''preseed.cfg'' on the flash drive and put the following in it:

d-i passwd/user-default-groups string cdrom floppy sudo audio dip \
video plugdev netdev scanner bluetooth
d-i pkgsel/include string sudo wicd-curses wicd-cli

At the bottom of the aforementioned instructions on making a bootable flash drive are instructions on getting the ''preseed.cfg'' file installed to the drive.

When you boot into your new system, remember that you need to explicitly tell ''wicd'' what the wireless LAN device is. Use the {{cmdroot | ifconfig}} command to check what it is. This turned out to be ''wlan0'' for me, but it might be different if you have a different interface.

Preseeding is a great way to preselect what you want an install to do, saving you time and aggravation. Read more about it [https://wiki.debian.org/DebianInstaller/Preseed here] and [http://www.debian.org/releases/stable/i386/apbs02.html.en here]. As demonstrated here, you don't have to have a long and drawn-out preseed.cfg file.

===Booting the Flash Drive===
Plug in your bootable flash drive and turn on your T420. Quickly press F1 to get into the BIOS. Check to make sure that booting from a USB flash drive is enabled. Don't change its priority. If you changed anything, save and exit to reboot the machine. Quickly press F12 to get a boot menu and select the flash drive. The Debian installation process will then begin.

===Not Installing a GUI===
After answering questions about what keyboard you have, timezone, root password, first user, and so on; you will be shown a menu of software to install. There are ten options. "Debian Desktop Environment", "Print server", "Laptop", and "Standard system utilities" should be preselected for you. If you don't care for Gnome3, deselect "Debian Desktop Environment". That will yield a machine with no GUI at all. Detailed below is the procedure for installing MATE.

The remaining steps of the install process are uneventful. You will end up with a bootable and usable system.

==Post-Install Configuration==
===MATE Desktop===
Add this line to /etc/apt/sources.list:
deb http://packages.mate-desktop.org/repo/debian/ wheezy main
Then update your APT cache
{{cmdroot | apt-get update}}
Install the MATE keys with
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-archive-keyring}}
and press 'Y' when you're asked if your sure. Then do:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-desktop-environment}}
This installs the basic environment. If you want more, do:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-desktop-environment-extra}}
Now, if you don't want to install ''gdm3'', you'll need to install the xinit package:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install xinit}}
This will enable you to start an X session by typing "startx".

===Sleep and Hibernate===

Install the packages ''hibernate'' and ''nvram-wakeup''. The ''thinkpad'' and ''nvram'' modules should automatically install without needing to list them in /etc/modules. After a reboot, the '''Fn-F4''' and '''Fn-F12''' key combinations will cause suspend-to-RAM and hibernate-to-disk respectively.

===Discrete Graphics versus Integrated Graphics===

Make sure you have ''Nvidia Optimus'' and switchable graphics enabled in the BIOS. Then install Bumblebee.

Read [https://wiki.debian.org/Bumblebee this] from the Debian wiki about Bumblebee. This tool is now included in the Debian repos. Basically, it boils down to this:

Add this line to /etc/apt/sources.list:
deb http://YOURMIRROR.debian.org/debian wheezy-backports main contrib non-free

Do ''apt-get update'' and then install linux headers as shown below. It is important that you do this before installing anything else related to Bumblebee or else the ''bbswitch'' module won't be built and ''optirun'' will not run. The official Debian howto doesn't mention this:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install linux-headers-$(uname -r)}}

Now you can install Bumblebee. Do it like this:

{{cmdroot | apt-get install -t wheezy-backports bumblebee-nvidia primus}}

This specifies that you want to use the proprietary drivers. Remove ''-nvidia'' from ''bumblebee-nvidia'' if you want the open-source ones. If you want to install i386 libs, do this instead:

{{cmdroot | dpkg --add-architecture i386}}
{{cmdroot | apt-get update}}
{{cmdroot | apt-get install -t wheezy-backports bumblebee-nvidia primus primus-libs:i386}}

Edit ''/etc/bumblebee/bumblebee.conf'' and look for the "[driver-nvidia]" section. There you will see a line that looks like this:
KernelDriver=nvidia

Change that to:
KernelDriver=nvidia-current

Reboot your T420. Then start an X11 session. Start a terminal emulator and type:
optirun glxgears --info

Unfortunately glxgears is a very poor test of 3D acceleration. http://unigine.com has several benchmarks of varying sophistication and cost (some are free as in beer). These benchmarks will yield good results if the quality is set to "low". Another good benchmarker is ''glxspheres'' which can be found at http://sourceforge.net/projects/virtualgl. If you install the .deb file, the binaries will be installed to ''/opt/VirtualGL/bin''. Laptop video interfaces are always rather poor compared to desktop ones.

{{todo|Why doesn't Bumblebee with i386 libs still not work?}}

====If You Break Something====

I managed to break Bumblebee by following some bad advice on getting 32-bit libraries installed so I can run 32-bit binaries with the Nvidia GPU. I installed the "install libgl1-nvidia-glx:i386" package. To get out of this, I did

{{cmdroot | apt-get remove bumblebee bumblebee-nvidia}}
{{cmdroot | apt-get autoremove}}
{{cmdroot | apt-get install -t wheezy-backports bumblebee-nvidia primus primus-libs:i386}}
{{cmdroot | apt-get install -t wheezy-backports xserver-xorg-video-nvidia}}
{{cmdroot | apt-get install xserver-xorg-video-intel}}

Reboot and all should be well.

If this doesn't work, you may also need to check ''/etc/bumblebee/bumblebee.conf''. Look for the ''LibraryPath'' and ''XorgModulePath'' variables. For paths ending in ''nvidia'', and ''/current''.

===Integrated Webcam===

Skype immediately noticed the camera and used it without trouble.

Installing Debian on a ThinkPad T420

2014-02-01T07:50:19Z

Dgriffi:

==The machine==
This is a {{T420}} that I bought secondhand off Ebay in December of 2013. I opted to buy this instead of a new Thinkpad because I dislike the new 6-row keyboards and the buttonless trackpads. This is its configuration:

* Intel® Core™ i5-2520M (2.5GHz, 3MB L3, 1333MHz FSB)
* Discrete NVIDIA NVS 4200M (1GB VRAM) with [[Switchable Graphics|Optimus™ Technology]]
* UEFI BIOS Version 83ET76WW (1.46)
* 4GB DDR3 - 1333MHz main memory
* 14.0" HD+ (1600 x 900) (230 NITS) TFT display
* Intel® 82577LM Gigabit (Hanksville) Digital Office ethernet adapter
* Intel Centrino Advanced-N 6205 (Taylor Peak) 2x2 AGN WLAN adapter

==Installation==
===Preparing a Bootable Flash Drive===
I installed Debian 7.3.0 (Wheezy) from a bootable flash drive. The process of creating bootable flash drive is described [http://hyper.to/blog/link/debian-installer-on-a-usb-key/ here]. It is helpful to add [http://packages.debian.org/wheezy/all/firmware-iwlwifi/download firmware-iwlwifi] to this drive so wireless networking can work while you're installing. The installer will notice this and install it automatically.

===Installing ''wicd'' With Preseed===
A helpful extra step is to use preseeding to have ''wicd'' installed automatically and to add the first user added to the ''sudo'' group. With ''wicd'' you can easily connect to a WiFi access point without a GUI. Create a text file named ''preseed.cfg'' on the flash drive and put the following in it:

d-i passwd/user-default-groups string cdrom floppy sudo audio dip \
video plugdev netdev scanner bluetooth
d-i pkgsel/include string sudo wicd-curses wicd-cli

At the bottom of the aforementioned instructions on making a bootable flash drive are instructions on getting the ''preseed.cfg'' file installed to the drive.

When you boot into your new system, remember that you need to explicitly tell ''wicd'' what the wireless LAN device is. Use the {{cmdroot | ifconfig}} command to check what it is. This turned out to be ''wlan0'' for me, but it might be different if you have a different interface.

Preseeding is a great way to preselect what you want an install to do, saving you time and aggravation. Read more about it [https://wiki.debian.org/DebianInstaller/Preseed here] and [http://www.debian.org/releases/stable/i386/apbs02.html.en here]. As demonstrated here, you don't have to have a long and drawn-out preseed.cfg file.

===Booting the Flash Drive===
Plug in your bootable flash drive and turn on your T420. Quickly press F1 to get into the BIOS. Check to make sure that booting from a USB flash drive is enabled. Don't change its priority. If you changed anything, save and exit to reboot the machine. Quickly press F12 to get a boot menu and select the flash drive. The Debian installation process will then begin.

===Not Installing a GUI===
After answering questions about what keyboard you have, timezone, root password, first user, and so on; you will be shown a menu of software to install. There are ten options. "Debian Desktop Environment", "Print server", "Laptop", and "Standard system utilities" should be preselected for you. If you don't care for Gnome3, deselect "Debian Desktop Environment". That will yield a machine with no GUI at all. Detailed below is the procedure for installing MATE.

The remaining steps of the install process are uneventful. You will end up with a bootable and usable system.

==Post-Install Configuration==
===MATE Desktop===
Add this line to /etc/apt/sources.list:
deb http://packages.mate-desktop.org/repo/debian/ wheezy main
Then update your APT cache
{{cmdroot | apt-get update}}
Install the MATE keys with
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-archive-keyring}}
and press 'Y' when you're asked if your sure. Then do:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-desktop-environment}}
This installs the basic environment. If you want more, do:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-desktop-environment-extra}}
Now, if you don't want to install ''gdm3'', you'll need to install the xinit package:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install xinit}}
This will enable you to start an X session by typing "startx".

===Sleep and Hibernate===

Install the packages ''hibernate'' and ''nvram-wakeup''. The ''thinkpad'' and ''nvram'' modules should automatically install without needing to list them in /etc/modules. After a reboot, the '''Fn-F4''' and '''Fn-F12''' key combinations will cause suspend-to-RAM and hibernate-to-disk respectively.

===Discrete Graphics versus Integrated Graphics===

Make sure you have ''Nvidia Optimus'' and switchable graphics enabled in the BIOS. Then install Bumblebee.

Read [https://wiki.debian.org/Bumblebee this] from the Debian wiki about Bumblebee. This tool is now included in the Debian repos. Basically, it boils down to this:

Add this line to /etc/apt/sources.list:
deb http://YOURMIRROR.debian.org/debian wheezy-backports main contrib non-free

Do ''apt-get update'' and then install linux headers as shown below. It is important that you do this before installing anything else related to Bumblebee or else the ''bbswitch'' module won't be built and ''optirun'' will not run. The official Debian howto doesn't mention this:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install linux-headers-$(uname -r)}}

Now you can install Bumblebee. Do it like this:

{{cmdroot | apt-get install -t wheezy-backports bumblebee-nvidia primus}}

This specifies that you want to use the proprietary drivers. Remove ''-nvidia'' from ''bumblebee-nvidia'' if you want the open-source ones. If you want to install i386 libs, do this instead:

{{cmdroot | dpkg --add-architecture i386}}
{{cmdroot | apt-get update}}
{{cmdroot | apt-get install -t wheezy-backports bumblebee-nvidia primus primus-libs:i386}}

Edit ''/etc/bumblebee/bumblebee.conf'' and look for the "[driver-nvidia]" section. There you will see a line that looks like this:
KernelDriver=nvidia

Change that to:
KernelDriver=nvidia-current

Reboot your T420. Then start an X11 session. Start a terminal emulator and type:
optirun glxgears --info

Unfortunately glxgears is a very poor test of 3D acceleration. http://unigine.com has several benchmarks of varying sophistication and cost (some are free as in beer). These benchmarks will yield good results if the quality is set to "low". Another good benchmarker is ''glxspheres'' which can be found at http://sourceforge.net/projects/virtualgl. If you install the .deb file, the binaries will be installed to ''/opt/VirtualGL/bin''. Laptop video interfaces are always rather poor compared to desktop ones.

{{todo|Why doesn't Bumblebee with i386 libs still not work?}}

====If You Break Something====

I managed to break Bumblebee by following some bad advice on getting 32-bit libraries installed so I can run 32-bit binaries with the Nvidia GPU. I installed the "install libgl1-nvidia-glx:i386" package. To get out of this, I did

{{cmdroot | apt-get remove bumblebee bumblebee-nvidia}}
{{cmdroot | apt-get autoremove}}
{{cmdroot | apt-get install -t wheezy-backports bumblebee-nvidia primus primus-libs:i386}}
{{cmdroot | apt-get install -t wheezy-backports xserver-xorg-video-nvidia}}

Reboot and all should be well.

If this doesn't work, you may also need to check ''/etc/bumblebee/bumblebee.conf''. Look for the ''LibraryPath'' and ''XorgModulePath'' variables. For paths ending in ''nvidia'', and ''/current''.

===Integrated Webcam===

Skype immediately noticed the camera and used it without trouble.

Installing Debian on a ThinkPad T420

2014-02-01T07:41:30Z

Dgriffi: /* Integrated Webcam */

==The machine==
This is a {{T420}} that I bought secondhand off Ebay in December of 2013. I opted to buy this instead of a new Thinkpad because I dislike the new 6-row keyboards and the buttonless trackpads. This is its configuration:

* Intel® Core™ i5-2520M (2.5GHz, 3MB L3, 1333MHz FSB)
* Discrete NVIDIA NVS 4200M (1GB VRAM) with [[Switchable Graphics|Optimus™ Technology]]
* UEFI BIOS Version 83ET76WW (1.46)
* 4GB DDR3 - 1333MHz main memory
* 14.0" HD+ (1600 x 900) (230 NITS) TFT display
* Intel® 82577LM Gigabit (Hanksville) Digital Office ethernet adapter
* Intel Centrino Advanced-N 6205 (Taylor Peak) 2x2 AGN WLAN adapter

==Installation==
===Preparing a Bootable Flash Drive===
I installed Debian 7.3.0 (Wheezy) from a bootable flash drive. The process of creating bootable flash drive is described [http://hyper.to/blog/link/debian-installer-on-a-usb-key/ here]. It is helpful to add [http://packages.debian.org/wheezy/all/firmware-iwlwifi/download firmware-iwlwifi] to this drive so wireless networking can work while you're installing. The installer will notice this and install it automatically.

===Installing ''wicd'' With Preseed===
A helpful extra step is to use preseeding to have ''wicd'' installed automatically and to add the first user added to the ''sudo'' group. With ''wicd'' you can easily connect to a WiFi access point without a GUI. Create a text file named ''preseed.cfg'' on the flash drive and put the following in it:

d-i passwd/user-default-groups string cdrom floppy sudo audio dip \
video plugdev netdev scanner bluetooth
d-i pkgsel/include string sudo wicd-curses wicd-cli

At the bottom of the aforementioned instructions on making a bootable flash drive are instructions on getting the ''preseed.cfg'' file installed to the drive.

When you boot into your new system, remember that you need to explicitly tell ''wicd'' what the wireless LAN device is. Use the {{cmdroot | ifconfig}} command to check what it is. This turned out to be ''wlan0'' for me, but it might be different if you have a different interface.

Preseeding is a great way to preselect what you want an install to do, saving you time and aggravation. Read more about it [https://wiki.debian.org/DebianInstaller/Preseed here] and [http://www.debian.org/releases/stable/i386/apbs02.html.en here]. As demonstrated here, you don't have to have a long and drawn-out preseed.cfg file.

===Booting the Flash Drive===
Plug in your bootable flash drive and turn on your T420. Quickly press F1 to get into the BIOS. Check to make sure that booting from a USB flash drive is enabled. Don't change its priority. If you changed anything, save and exit to reboot the machine. Quickly press F12 to get a boot menu and select the flash drive. The Debian installation process will then begin.

===Not Installing a GUI===
After answering questions about what keyboard you have, timezone, root password, first user, and so on; you will be shown a menu of software to install. There are ten options. "Debian Desktop Environment", "Print server", "Laptop", and "Standard system utilities" should be preselected for you. If you don't care for Gnome3, deselect "Debian Desktop Environment". That will yield a machine with no GUI at all. Detailed below is the procedure for installing MATE.

The remaining steps of the install process are uneventful. You will end up with a bootable and usable system.

==Post-Install Configuration==
===MATE Desktop===
Add this line to /etc/apt/sources.list:
deb http://packages.mate-desktop.org/repo/debian/ wheezy main
Then update your APT cache
{{cmdroot | apt-get update}}
Install the MATE keys with
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-archive-keyring}}
and press 'Y' when you're asked if your sure. Then do:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-desktop-environment}}
This installs the basic environment. If you want more, do:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-desktop-environment-extra}}
Now, if you don't want to install ''gdm3'', you'll need to install the xinit package:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install xinit}}
This will enable you to start an X session by typing "startx".

===Sleep and Hibernate===

Install the packages ''hibernate'' and ''nvram-wakeup''. The ''thinkpad'' and ''nvram'' modules should automatically install without needing to list them in /etc/modules. After a reboot, the '''Fn-F4''' and '''Fn-F12''' key combinations will cause suspend-to-RAM and hibernate-to-disk respectively.

===Discrete Graphics versus Integrated Graphics===

Make sure you have ''Nvidia Optimus'' and switchable graphics enabled in the BIOS. Then install Bumblebee.

Read [https://wiki.debian.org/Bumblebee this] from the Debian wiki about Bumblebee. This tool is now included in the Debian repos. Basically, it boils down to this:

Add this line to /etc/apt/sources.list:
deb http://YOURMIRROR.debian.org/debian wheezy-backports main contrib non-free

Do ''apt-get update'' and then install linux headers as shown below. It is important that you do this before installing anything else related to Bumblebee or else the ''bbswitch'' module won't be built and ''optirun'' will not run. The official Debian howto doesn't mention this:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install linux-headers-$(uname -r)}}

Now you can install Bumblebee. Do it like this:

{{cmdroot | apt-get install -t wheezy-backports bumblebee-nvidia primus}}

This specifies that you want to use the proprietary drivers. Remove ''-nvidia'' from ''bumblebee-nvidia'' if you want the open-source ones. If you want to install i386 libs, do this instead:

{{cmdroot | dpkg --add-architecture i386}}
{{cmdroot | apt-get update}}
{{cmdroot | apt-get install -t wheezy-backports bumblebee-nvidia primus primus-libs:i386}}

Edit ''/etc/bumblebee/bumblebee.conf'' and look for the "[driver-nvidia]" section. There you will see a line that looks like this:
KernelDriver=nvidia

Change that to:
KernelDriver=nvidia-current

Reboot your T420. Then start an X11 session. Start a terminal emulator and type:
optirun glxgears --info

Unfortunately glxgears is a very poor test of 3D acceleration. http://unigine.com has several benchmarks of varying sophistication and cost (some are free as in beer). These benchmarks will yield good results if the quality is set to "low". Another good benchmarker is ''glxspheres'' which can be found at http://sourceforge.net/projects/virtualgl. If you install the .deb file, the binaries will be installed to ''/opt/VirtualGL/bin''. Laptop video interfaces are always rather poor compared to desktop ones.

{{todo|Why doesn't Bumblebee with i386 libs still not work?}}

===Integrated Webcam===

Skype immediately noticed the camera and used it without trouble.

{{todo|Incomplete}}

Installing Debian on a ThinkPad T420

2014-01-13T10:26:06Z

Dgriffi: /* Discrete Graphics versus Integrated Graphics */

==The machine==
This is a {{T420}} that I bought secondhand off Ebay in December of 2013. I opted to buy this instead of a new Thinkpad because I dislike the new 6-row keyboards and the buttonless trackpads. This is its configuration:

* Intel® Core™ i5-2520M (2.5GHz, 3MB L3, 1333MHz FSB)
* Discrete NVIDIA NVS 4200M (1GB VRAM) with [[Switchable Graphics|Optimus™ Technology]]
* UEFI BIOS Version 83ET76WW (1.46)
* 4GB DDR3 - 1333MHz main memory
* 14.0" HD+ (1600 x 900) (230 NITS) TFT display
* Intel® 82577LM Gigabit (Hanksville) Digital Office ethernet adapter
* Intel Centrino Advanced-N 6205 (Taylor Peak) 2x2 AGN WLAN adapter

==Installation==
===Preparing a Bootable Flash Drive===
I installed Debian 7.3.0 (Wheezy) from a bootable flash drive. The process of creating bootable flash drive is described [http://hyper.to/blog/link/debian-installer-on-a-usb-key/ here]. It is helpful to add [http://packages.debian.org/wheezy/all/firmware-iwlwifi/download firmware-iwlwifi] to this drive so wireless networking can work while you're installing. The installer will notice this and install it automatically.

===Installing ''wicd'' With Preseed===
A helpful extra step is to use preseeding to have ''wicd'' installed automatically and to add the first user added to the ''sudo'' group. With ''wicd'' you can easily connect to a WiFi access point without a GUI. Create a text file named ''preseed.cfg'' on the flash drive and put the following in it:

d-i passwd/user-default-groups string cdrom floppy sudo audio dip \
video plugdev netdev scanner bluetooth
d-i pkgsel/include string sudo wicd-curses wicd-cli

At the bottom of the aforementioned instructions on making a bootable flash drive are instructions on getting the ''preseed.cfg'' file installed to the drive.

When you boot into your new system, remember that you need to explicitly tell ''wicd'' what the wireless LAN device is. Use the {{cmdroot | ifconfig}} command to check what it is. This turned out to be ''wlan0'' for me, but it might be different if you have a different interface.

Preseeding is a great way to preselect what you want an install to do, saving you time and aggravation. Read more about it [https://wiki.debian.org/DebianInstaller/Preseed here] and [http://www.debian.org/releases/stable/i386/apbs02.html.en here]. As demonstrated here, you don't have to have a long and drawn-out preseed.cfg file.

===Booting the Flash Drive===
Plug in your bootable flash drive and turn on your T420. Quickly press F1 to get into the BIOS. Check to make sure that booting from a USB flash drive is enabled. Don't change its priority. If you changed anything, save and exit to reboot the machine. Quickly press F12 to get a boot menu and select the flash drive. The Debian installation process will then begin.

===Not Installing a GUI===
After answering questions about what keyboard you have, timezone, root password, first user, and so on; you will be shown a menu of software to install. There are ten options. "Debian Desktop Environment", "Print server", "Laptop", and "Standard system utilities" should be preselected for you. If you don't care for Gnome3, deselect "Debian Desktop Environment". That will yield a machine with no GUI at all. Detailed below is the procedure for installing MATE.

The remaining steps of the install process are uneventful. You will end up with a bootable and usable system.

==Post-Install Configuration==
===MATE Desktop===
Add this line to /etc/apt/sources.list:
deb http://packages.mate-desktop.org/repo/debian/ wheezy main
Then update your APT cache
{{cmdroot | apt-get update}}
Install the MATE keys with
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-archive-keyring}}
and press 'Y' when you're asked if your sure. Then do:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-desktop-environment}}
This installs the basic environment. If you want more, do:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-desktop-environment-extra}}
Now, if you don't want to install ''gdm3'', you'll need to install the xinit package:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install xinit}}
This will enable you to start an X session by typing "startx".

===Sleep and Hibernate===

Install the packages ''hibernate'' and ''nvram-wakeup''. The ''thinkpad'' and ''nvram'' modules should automatically install without needing to list them in /etc/modules. After a reboot, the '''Fn-F4''' and '''Fn-F12''' key combinations will cause suspend-to-RAM and hibernate-to-disk respectively.

===Discrete Graphics versus Integrated Graphics===

Make sure you have ''Nvidia Optimus'' and switchable graphics enabled in the BIOS. Then install Bumblebee.

Read [https://wiki.debian.org/Bumblebee this] from the Debian wiki about Bumblebee. This tool is now included in the Debian repos. Basically, it boils down to this:

Add this line to /etc/apt/sources.list:
deb http://YOURMIRROR.debian.org/debian wheezy-backports main contrib non-free

Do ''apt-get update'' and then install linux headers as shown below. It is important that you do this before installing anything else related to Bumblebee or else the ''bbswitch'' module won't be built and ''optirun'' will not run. The official Debian howto doesn't mention this:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install linux-headers-$(uname -r)}}

Now you can install Bumblebee. Do it like this:

{{cmdroot | apt-get install -t wheezy-backports bumblebee-nvidia primus}}

This specifies that you want to use the proprietary drivers. Remove ''-nvidia'' from ''bumblebee-nvidia'' if you want the open-source ones. If you want to install i386 libs, do this instead:

{{cmdroot | dpkg --add-architecture i386}}
{{cmdroot | apt-get update}}
{{cmdroot | apt-get install -t wheezy-backports bumblebee-nvidia primus primus-libs:i386}}

Edit ''/etc/bumblebee/bumblebee.conf'' and look for the "[driver-nvidia]" section. There you will see a line that looks like this:
KernelDriver=nvidia

Change that to:
KernelDriver=nvidia-current

Reboot your T420. Then start an X11 session. Start a terminal emulator and type:
optirun glxgears --info

Unfortunately glxgears is a very poor test of 3D acceleration. http://unigine.com has several benchmarks of varying sophistication and cost (some are free as in beer). These benchmarks will yield good results if the quality is set to "low". Another good benchmarker is ''glxspheres'' which can be found at http://sourceforge.net/projects/virtualgl. If you install the .deb file, the binaries will be installed to ''/opt/VirtualGL/bin''. Laptop video interfaces are always rather poor compared to desktop ones.

{{todo|Why doesn't Bumblebee with i386 libs still not work?}}

===Integrated Webcam===

{{todo|Incomplete}}

Installing Debian on a ThinkPad T420

2014-01-13T09:32:20Z

Dgriffi: /* MATE Desktop */

==The machine==
This is a {{T420}} that I bought secondhand off Ebay in December of 2013. I opted to buy this instead of a new Thinkpad because I dislike the new 6-row keyboards and the buttonless trackpads. This is its configuration:

* Intel® Core™ i5-2520M (2.5GHz, 3MB L3, 1333MHz FSB)
* Discrete NVIDIA NVS 4200M (1GB VRAM) with [[Switchable Graphics|Optimus™ Technology]]
* UEFI BIOS Version 83ET76WW (1.46)
* 4GB DDR3 - 1333MHz main memory
* 14.0" HD+ (1600 x 900) (230 NITS) TFT display
* Intel® 82577LM Gigabit (Hanksville) Digital Office ethernet adapter
* Intel Centrino Advanced-N 6205 (Taylor Peak) 2x2 AGN WLAN adapter

==Installation==
===Preparing a Bootable Flash Drive===
I installed Debian 7.3.0 (Wheezy) from a bootable flash drive. The process of creating bootable flash drive is described [http://hyper.to/blog/link/debian-installer-on-a-usb-key/ here]. It is helpful to add [http://packages.debian.org/wheezy/all/firmware-iwlwifi/download firmware-iwlwifi] to this drive so wireless networking can work while you're installing. The installer will notice this and install it automatically.

===Installing ''wicd'' With Preseed===
A helpful extra step is to use preseeding to have ''wicd'' installed automatically and to add the first user added to the ''sudo'' group. With ''wicd'' you can easily connect to a WiFi access point without a GUI. Create a text file named ''preseed.cfg'' on the flash drive and put the following in it:

d-i passwd/user-default-groups string cdrom floppy sudo audio dip \
video plugdev netdev scanner bluetooth
d-i pkgsel/include string sudo wicd-curses wicd-cli

At the bottom of the aforementioned instructions on making a bootable flash drive are instructions on getting the ''preseed.cfg'' file installed to the drive.

When you boot into your new system, remember that you need to explicitly tell ''wicd'' what the wireless LAN device is. Use the {{cmdroot | ifconfig}} command to check what it is. This turned out to be ''wlan0'' for me, but it might be different if you have a different interface.

Preseeding is a great way to preselect what you want an install to do, saving you time and aggravation. Read more about it [https://wiki.debian.org/DebianInstaller/Preseed here] and [http://www.debian.org/releases/stable/i386/apbs02.html.en here]. As demonstrated here, you don't have to have a long and drawn-out preseed.cfg file.

===Booting the Flash Drive===
Plug in your bootable flash drive and turn on your T420. Quickly press F1 to get into the BIOS. Check to make sure that booting from a USB flash drive is enabled. Don't change its priority. If you changed anything, save and exit to reboot the machine. Quickly press F12 to get a boot menu and select the flash drive. The Debian installation process will then begin.

===Not Installing a GUI===
After answering questions about what keyboard you have, timezone, root password, first user, and so on; you will be shown a menu of software to install. There are ten options. "Debian Desktop Environment", "Print server", "Laptop", and "Standard system utilities" should be preselected for you. If you don't care for Gnome3, deselect "Debian Desktop Environment". That will yield a machine with no GUI at all. Detailed below is the procedure for installing MATE.

The remaining steps of the install process are uneventful. You will end up with a bootable and usable system.

==Post-Install Configuration==
===MATE Desktop===
Add this line to /etc/apt/sources.list:
deb http://packages.mate-desktop.org/repo/debian/ wheezy main
Then update your APT cache
{{cmdroot | apt-get update}}
Install the MATE keys with
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-archive-keyring}}
and press 'Y' when you're asked if your sure. Then do:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-desktop-environment}}
This installs the basic environment. If you want more, do:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-desktop-environment-extra}}
Now, if you don't want to install ''gdm3'', you'll need to install the xinit package:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install xinit}}
This will enable you to start an X session by typing "startx".

===Sleep and Hibernate===

Install the packages ''hibernate'' and ''nvram-wakeup''. The ''thinkpad'' and ''nvram'' modules should automatically install without needing to list them in /etc/modules. After a reboot, the '''Fn-F4''' and '''Fn-F12''' key combinations will cause suspend-to-RAM and hibernate-to-disk respectively.

===Discrete Graphics versus Integrated Graphics===

Make sure you have ''Nvidia Optimus'' and switchable graphics enabled in the BIOS. Then install Bumblebee.

Read [https://wiki.debian.org/Bumblebee this] from the Debian wiki about Bumblebee. This tool is now included in the Debian repos. Basically, it boils down to this:

Add this line to /etc/apt/sources.list:
deb http://YOURMIRROR.debian.org/debian wheezy-backports main contrib non-free

Do ''apt-get update'' and then install linux headers as shown below. It is important that you do this before installing anything else related to Bumblebee or else the ''bbswitch'' module won't be built and ''optirun'' will not run. The official Debian howto doesn't mention this:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install linux-headers-$(uname -r)}}

Now you can install Bumblebee. Do it like this:

{{cmdroot | apt-get install -t wheezy-backports bumblebee-nvidia primus}}

This specifies that you want to use the proprietary drivers. Remove ''-nvidia'' from ''bumblebee-nvidia'' if you want the open-source ones. If you want to install i386 libs, do this instead:

{{cmdroot | dpkg --add-architecture i386}}
{{cmdroot | apt-get update}}
{{cmdroot | apt-get install -t wheezy-backports bumblebee-nvidia primus primus-libs:i386}}

Edit ''/etc/bumblebee/bumblebee.conf'' and look for the "[driver-nvidia]" section. There you will see a line that looks like this:
KernelDriver=nvidia

Change that to:
KernelDriver=nvidia-current

Reboot your T420. Then start an X11 session. Start a terminal emulator and type:
optirun glxgears --info

Unfortunately glxgears is a very poor test of 3D acceleration. http://unigine.com has several benchmarks of varying sophistication and cost (some are free as in beer). These benchmarks will yield good results if the quality is set to "low". Laptop video interfaces are always rather poor compared to desktop ones.

{{todo|Why doesn't Bumblebee with i386 libs still not work?}}

===Integrated Webcam===

{{todo|Incomplete}}

Installing Debian on a ThinkPad T420

2014-01-13T08:37:47Z

Dgriffi: /* Discrete Graphics versus Integrated Graphics */

==The machine==
This is a {{T420}} that I bought secondhand off Ebay in December of 2013. I opted to buy this instead of a new Thinkpad because I dislike the new 6-row keyboards and the buttonless trackpads. This is its configuration:

* Intel® Core™ i5-2520M (2.5GHz, 3MB L3, 1333MHz FSB)
* Discrete NVIDIA NVS 4200M (1GB VRAM) with [[Switchable Graphics|Optimus™ Technology]]
* UEFI BIOS Version 83ET76WW (1.46)
* 4GB DDR3 - 1333MHz main memory
* 14.0" HD+ (1600 x 900) (230 NITS) TFT display
* Intel® 82577LM Gigabit (Hanksville) Digital Office ethernet adapter
* Intel Centrino Advanced-N 6205 (Taylor Peak) 2x2 AGN WLAN adapter

==Installation==
===Preparing a Bootable Flash Drive===
I installed Debian 7.3.0 (Wheezy) from a bootable flash drive. The process of creating bootable flash drive is described [http://hyper.to/blog/link/debian-installer-on-a-usb-key/ here]. It is helpful to add [http://packages.debian.org/wheezy/all/firmware-iwlwifi/download firmware-iwlwifi] to this drive so wireless networking can work while you're installing. The installer will notice this and install it automatically.

===Installing ''wicd'' With Preseed===
A helpful extra step is to use preseeding to have ''wicd'' installed automatically and to add the first user added to the ''sudo'' group. With ''wicd'' you can easily connect to a WiFi access point without a GUI. Create a text file named ''preseed.cfg'' on the flash drive and put the following in it:

d-i passwd/user-default-groups string cdrom floppy sudo audio dip \
video plugdev netdev scanner bluetooth
d-i pkgsel/include string sudo wicd-curses wicd-cli

At the bottom of the aforementioned instructions on making a bootable flash drive are instructions on getting the ''preseed.cfg'' file installed to the drive.

When you boot into your new system, remember that you need to explicitly tell ''wicd'' what the wireless LAN device is. Use the {{cmdroot | ifconfig}} command to check what it is. This turned out to be ''wlan0'' for me, but it might be different if you have a different interface.

Preseeding is a great way to preselect what you want an install to do, saving you time and aggravation. Read more about it [https://wiki.debian.org/DebianInstaller/Preseed here] and [http://www.debian.org/releases/stable/i386/apbs02.html.en here]. As demonstrated here, you don't have to have a long and drawn-out preseed.cfg file.

===Booting the Flash Drive===
Plug in your bootable flash drive and turn on your T420. Quickly press F1 to get into the BIOS. Check to make sure that booting from a USB flash drive is enabled. Don't change its priority. If you changed anything, save and exit to reboot the machine. Quickly press F12 to get a boot menu and select the flash drive. The Debian installation process will then begin.

===Not Installing a GUI===
After answering questions about what keyboard you have, timezone, root password, first user, and so on; you will be shown a menu of software to install. There are ten options. "Debian Desktop Environment", "Print server", "Laptop", and "Standard system utilities" should be preselected for you. If you don't care for Gnome3, deselect "Debian Desktop Environment". That will yield a machine with no GUI at all. Detailed below is the procedure for installing MATE.

The remaining steps of the install process are uneventful. You will end up with a bootable and usable system.

==Post-Install Configuration==
===MATE Desktop===
Add this line to /etc/apt/sources.list:
deb http://packages.mate-desktop.org/repo/debian/ wheezy main
Then update your APT cache
{{cmdroot | apt-get update}}
Install the MATE keys with
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-archive-keyring}}
and press 'Y' when you're asked if your sure. Then do:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-core}}
This installs the basic environment. If you want more, do:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-desktop-environment}}
For even more:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-desktop-environment-extra}}
Now, if you don't want to install ''gdm3'', you'll need to install the xinit package:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install xinit}}
This will enable you to start an X session by typing "startx".

===Sleep and Hibernate===

Install the packages ''hibernate'' and ''nvram-wakeup''. The ''thinkpad'' and ''nvram'' modules should automatically install without needing to list them in /etc/modules. After a reboot, the '''Fn-F4''' and '''Fn-F12''' key combinations will cause suspend-to-RAM and hibernate-to-disk respectively.

===Discrete Graphics versus Integrated Graphics===

Make sure you have ''Nvidia Optimus'' and switchable graphics enabled in the BIOS. Then install Bumblebee.

Read [https://wiki.debian.org/Bumblebee this] from the Debian wiki about Bumblebee. This tool is now included in the Debian repos. Basically, it boils down to this:

Add this line to /etc/apt/sources.list:
deb http://YOURMIRROR.debian.org/debian wheezy-backports main contrib non-free

Do ''apt-get update'' and then install linux headers as shown below. It is important that you do this before installing anything else related to Bumblebee or else the ''bbswitch'' module won't be built and ''optirun'' will not run. The official Debian howto doesn't mention this:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install linux-headers-$(uname -r)}}

Now you can install Bumblebee. Do it like this:

{{cmdroot | apt-get install -t wheezy-backports bumblebee-nvidia primus}}

This specifies that you want to use the proprietary drivers. Remove ''-nvidia'' from ''bumblebee-nvidia'' if you want the open-source ones. If you want to install i386 libs, do this instead:

{{cmdroot | dpkg --add-architecture i386}}
{{cmdroot | apt-get update}}
{{cmdroot | apt-get install -t wheezy-backports bumblebee-nvidia primus primus-libs:i386}}

Edit ''/etc/bumblebee/bumblebee.conf'' and look for the "[driver-nvidia]" section. There you will see a line that looks like this:
KernelDriver=nvidia

Change that to:
KernelDriver=nvidia-current

Reboot your T420. Then start an X11 session. Start a terminal emulator and type:
optirun glxgears --info

Unfortunately glxgears is a very poor test of 3D acceleration. http://unigine.com has several benchmarks of varying sophistication and cost (some are free as in beer). These benchmarks will yield good results if the quality is set to "low". Laptop video interfaces are always rather poor compared to desktop ones.

{{todo|Why doesn't Bumblebee with i386 libs still not work?}}

===Integrated Webcam===

{{todo|Incomplete}}

Installing Debian on a ThinkPad T420

2014-01-13T07:44:46Z

Dgriffi: /* Discrete Graphics versus Integrated Graphics */

==The machine==
This is a {{T420}} that I bought secondhand off Ebay in December of 2013. I opted to buy this instead of a new Thinkpad because I dislike the new 6-row keyboards and the buttonless trackpads. This is its configuration:

* Intel® Core™ i5-2520M (2.5GHz, 3MB L3, 1333MHz FSB)
* Discrete NVIDIA NVS 4200M (1GB VRAM) with [[Switchable Graphics|Optimus™ Technology]]
* UEFI BIOS Version 83ET76WW (1.46)
* 4GB DDR3 - 1333MHz main memory
* 14.0" HD+ (1600 x 900) (230 NITS) TFT display
* Intel® 82577LM Gigabit (Hanksville) Digital Office ethernet adapter
* Intel Centrino Advanced-N 6205 (Taylor Peak) 2x2 AGN WLAN adapter

==Installation==
===Preparing a Bootable Flash Drive===
I installed Debian 7.3.0 (Wheezy) from a bootable flash drive. The process of creating bootable flash drive is described [http://hyper.to/blog/link/debian-installer-on-a-usb-key/ here]. It is helpful to add [http://packages.debian.org/wheezy/all/firmware-iwlwifi/download firmware-iwlwifi] to this drive so wireless networking can work while you're installing. The installer will notice this and install it automatically.

===Installing ''wicd'' With Preseed===
A helpful extra step is to use preseeding to have ''wicd'' installed automatically and to add the first user added to the ''sudo'' group. With ''wicd'' you can easily connect to a WiFi access point without a GUI. Create a text file named ''preseed.cfg'' on the flash drive and put the following in it:

d-i passwd/user-default-groups string cdrom floppy sudo audio dip \
video plugdev netdev scanner bluetooth
d-i pkgsel/include string sudo wicd-curses wicd-cli

At the bottom of the aforementioned instructions on making a bootable flash drive are instructions on getting the ''preseed.cfg'' file installed to the drive.

When you boot into your new system, remember that you need to explicitly tell ''wicd'' what the wireless LAN device is. Use the {{cmdroot | ifconfig}} command to check what it is. This turned out to be ''wlan0'' for me, but it might be different if you have a different interface.

Preseeding is a great way to preselect what you want an install to do, saving you time and aggravation. Read more about it [https://wiki.debian.org/DebianInstaller/Preseed here] and [http://www.debian.org/releases/stable/i386/apbs02.html.en here]. As demonstrated here, you don't have to have a long and drawn-out preseed.cfg file.

===Booting the Flash Drive===
Plug in your bootable flash drive and turn on your T420. Quickly press F1 to get into the BIOS. Check to make sure that booting from a USB flash drive is enabled. Don't change its priority. If you changed anything, save and exit to reboot the machine. Quickly press F12 to get a boot menu and select the flash drive. The Debian installation process will then begin.

===Not Installing a GUI===
After answering questions about what keyboard you have, timezone, root password, first user, and so on; you will be shown a menu of software to install. There are ten options. "Debian Desktop Environment", "Print server", "Laptop", and "Standard system utilities" should be preselected for you. If you don't care for Gnome3, deselect "Debian Desktop Environment". That will yield a machine with no GUI at all. Detailed below is the procedure for installing MATE.

The remaining steps of the install process are uneventful. You will end up with a bootable and usable system.

==Post-Install Configuration==
===MATE Desktop===
Add this line to /etc/apt/sources.list:
deb http://packages.mate-desktop.org/repo/debian/ wheezy main
Then update your APT cache
{{cmdroot | apt-get update}}
Install the MATE keys with
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-archive-keyring}}
and press 'Y' when you're asked if your sure. Then do:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-core}}
This installs the basic environment. If you want more, do:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-desktop-environment}}
For even more:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-desktop-environment-extra}}
Now, if you don't want to install ''gdm3'', you'll need to install the xinit package:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install xinit}}
This will enable you to start an X session by typing "startx".

===Sleep and Hibernate===

Install the packages ''hibernate'' and ''nvram-wakeup''. The ''thinkpad'' and ''nvram'' modules should automatically install without needing to list them in /etc/modules. After a reboot, the '''Fn-F4''' and '''Fn-F12''' key combinations will cause suspend-to-RAM and hibernate-to-disk respectively.

===Discrete Graphics versus Integrated Graphics===

Make sure you have ''Nvidia Optimus'' and switchable graphics enabled in the BIOS. Then install Bumblebee.

Read [https://wiki.debian.org/Bumblebee this] from the Debian wiki about Bumblebee. This tool is now included in the Debian repos. Basically, it boils down to this:

Add this line to /etc/apt/sources.list:
deb http://YOURMIRROR.debian.org/debian wheezy-backports main contrib non-free

Do ''apt-get update'' and then install linux headers as shown below. It is important that you do this before installing anything else related to Bumblebee or else the ''bbswitch'' module won't be built and ''optirun'' will not run. The official Debian howto doesn't mention this:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install linux-headers-$(uname -r)}}

Now you can install Bumblebee. Do it like this:

{{cmdroot | apt-get install -t wheezy-backports bumblebee-nvidia primus}}

This specifies that you want to use the proprietary drivers. Remove ''-nvidia'' from ''bumblebee-nvidia'' if you want the open-source ones. If you want to install i386 libs, do this instead:

{{cmdroot | dpkg --add-architecture i386}}
{{cmdroot | apt-get update}}
{{cmdroot | apt-get install bumblebee-nvidia primus primus-libs:i386}}

Edit ''/etc/bumblebee/bumblebee.conf'' and look for the "[driver-nvidia]" section. There you will see a line that looks like this:
KernelDriver=nvidia

Change that to:
KernelDriver=nvidia-current

Reboot your T420. Then start an X11 session. Start a terminal emulator and type:
optirun glxgears --info

Unfortunately glxgears is a very poor test of 3D acceleration. http://unigine.com has several benchmarks of varying sophistication and cost (some are free as in beer). These benchmarks will yield good results if the quality is set to "low". Laptop video interfaces are always rather poor compared to desktop ones.

{{todo|Why doesn't Bumblebee with i386 libs still not work?}}

===Integrated Webcam===

{{todo|Incomplete}}

Installing Debian on a ThinkPad T420

2014-01-13T07:41:32Z

Dgriffi: /* Discrete Graphics versus Integrated Graphics */ hopefully this works.

==The machine==
This is a {{T420}} that I bought secondhand off Ebay in December of 2013. I opted to buy this instead of a new Thinkpad because I dislike the new 6-row keyboards and the buttonless trackpads. This is its configuration:

* Intel® Core™ i5-2520M (2.5GHz, 3MB L3, 1333MHz FSB)
* Discrete NVIDIA NVS 4200M (1GB VRAM) with [[Switchable Graphics|Optimus™ Technology]]
* UEFI BIOS Version 83ET76WW (1.46)
* 4GB DDR3 - 1333MHz main memory
* 14.0" HD+ (1600 x 900) (230 NITS) TFT display
* Intel® 82577LM Gigabit (Hanksville) Digital Office ethernet adapter
* Intel Centrino Advanced-N 6205 (Taylor Peak) 2x2 AGN WLAN adapter

==Installation==
===Preparing a Bootable Flash Drive===
I installed Debian 7.3.0 (Wheezy) from a bootable flash drive. The process of creating bootable flash drive is described [http://hyper.to/blog/link/debian-installer-on-a-usb-key/ here]. It is helpful to add [http://packages.debian.org/wheezy/all/firmware-iwlwifi/download firmware-iwlwifi] to this drive so wireless networking can work while you're installing. The installer will notice this and install it automatically.

===Installing ''wicd'' With Preseed===
A helpful extra step is to use preseeding to have ''wicd'' installed automatically and to add the first user added to the ''sudo'' group. With ''wicd'' you can easily connect to a WiFi access point without a GUI. Create a text file named ''preseed.cfg'' on the flash drive and put the following in it:

d-i passwd/user-default-groups string cdrom floppy sudo audio dip \
video plugdev netdev scanner bluetooth
d-i pkgsel/include string sudo wicd-curses wicd-cli

At the bottom of the aforementioned instructions on making a bootable flash drive are instructions on getting the ''preseed.cfg'' file installed to the drive.

When you boot into your new system, remember that you need to explicitly tell ''wicd'' what the wireless LAN device is. Use the {{cmdroot | ifconfig}} command to check what it is. This turned out to be ''wlan0'' for me, but it might be different if you have a different interface.

Preseeding is a great way to preselect what you want an install to do, saving you time and aggravation. Read more about it [https://wiki.debian.org/DebianInstaller/Preseed here] and [http://www.debian.org/releases/stable/i386/apbs02.html.en here]. As demonstrated here, you don't have to have a long and drawn-out preseed.cfg file.

===Booting the Flash Drive===
Plug in your bootable flash drive and turn on your T420. Quickly press F1 to get into the BIOS. Check to make sure that booting from a USB flash drive is enabled. Don't change its priority. If you changed anything, save and exit to reboot the machine. Quickly press F12 to get a boot menu and select the flash drive. The Debian installation process will then begin.

===Not Installing a GUI===
After answering questions about what keyboard you have, timezone, root password, first user, and so on; you will be shown a menu of software to install. There are ten options. "Debian Desktop Environment", "Print server", "Laptop", and "Standard system utilities" should be preselected for you. If you don't care for Gnome3, deselect "Debian Desktop Environment". That will yield a machine with no GUI at all. Detailed below is the procedure for installing MATE.

The remaining steps of the install process are uneventful. You will end up with a bootable and usable system.

==Post-Install Configuration==
===MATE Desktop===
Add this line to /etc/apt/sources.list:
deb http://packages.mate-desktop.org/repo/debian/ wheezy main
Then update your APT cache
{{cmdroot | apt-get update}}
Install the MATE keys with
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-archive-keyring}}
and press 'Y' when you're asked if your sure. Then do:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-core}}
This installs the basic environment. If you want more, do:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-desktop-environment}}
For even more:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-desktop-environment-extra}}
Now, if you don't want to install ''gdm3'', you'll need to install the xinit package:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install xinit}}
This will enable you to start an X session by typing "startx".

===Sleep and Hibernate===

Install the packages ''hibernate'' and ''nvram-wakeup''. The ''thinkpad'' and ''nvram'' modules should automatically install without needing to list them in /etc/modules. After a reboot, the '''Fn-F4''' and '''Fn-F12''' key combinations will cause suspend-to-RAM and hibernate-to-disk respectively.

===Discrete Graphics versus Integrated Graphics===

Make sure you have ''Nvidia Optimus'' and switchable graphics enabled in the BIOS. Then install Bumblebee.

Read [https://wiki.debian.org/Bumblebee this] from the Debian wiki about Bumblebee. This tool is now included in the Debian repos. Basically, it boils down to this:

Add this line to /etc/apt/sources.list:
deb http://YOURMIRROR.debian.org/debian wheezy-backports main contrib non-free

Do ''apt-get update'' and then install linux headers as shown below. It is important that you do this before installing anything else related to Bumblebee or else the ''bbswitch'' module won't be built and ''optirun'' will not run:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install linux-headers-$(uname -r)}}

Now you can install Bumblebee. Do it like this:

{{cmdroot | apt-get install -t wheezy-backports bumblebee-nvidia primus}}

This specifies that you want to use the proprietary drivers. Remove ''-nvidia'' from ''bumblebee-nvidia'' if you want the open-source ones. If you want to install i386 libs, do this instead:

{{cmdroot | dpkg --add-architecture i386}}
{{cmdroot | apt-get update}}
{{cmdroot | apt-get install bumblebee-nvidia primus primus-libs:i386}}

Edit ''/etc/bumblebee/bumblebee.conf'' and look for the "[driver-nvidia]" section. There you will see a line that looks like this:
KernelDriver=nvidia

Change that to:
KernelDriver=nvidia-current

Reboot your T420. Then start an X11 session. Start a terminal emulator and type:
optirun glxgears --info

Unfortunately glxgears is a very poor test of 3D acceleration. http://unigine.com has several benchmarks of varying sophistication and cost (some are free as in beer). These benchmarks will yield good results if the quality is set to "low". Laptop video interfaces are always rather poor compared to desktop ones.

{{todo|Why doesn't Bumblebee with i386 libs still not work?}}

===Integrated Webcam===

{{todo|Incomplete}}

Installing Debian on a ThinkPad T420

2014-01-12T03:29:11Z

Dgriffi: /* Discrete Graphics versus Integrated Graphics */

==The machine==
This is a {{T420}} that I bought secondhand off Ebay in December of 2013. I opted to buy this instead of a new Thinkpad because I dislike the new 6-row keyboards and the buttonless trackpads. This is its configuration:

* Intel® Core™ i5-2520M (2.5GHz, 3MB L3, 1333MHz FSB)
* Discrete NVIDIA NVS 4200M (1GB VRAM) with [[Switchable Graphics|Optimus™ Technology]]
* UEFI BIOS Version 83ET76WW (1.46)
* 4GB DDR3 - 1333MHz main memory
* 14.0" HD+ (1600 x 900) (230 NITS) TFT display
* Intel® 82577LM Gigabit (Hanksville) Digital Office ethernet adapter
* Intel Centrino Advanced-N 6205 (Taylor Peak) 2x2 AGN WLAN adapter

==Installation==
===Preparing a Bootable Flash Drive===
I installed Debian 7.3.0 (Wheezy) from a bootable flash drive. The process of creating bootable flash drive is described [http://hyper.to/blog/link/debian-installer-on-a-usb-key/ here]. It is helpful to add [http://packages.debian.org/wheezy/all/firmware-iwlwifi/download firmware-iwlwifi] to this drive so wireless networking can work while you're installing. The installer will notice this and install it automatically.

===Installing ''wicd'' With Preseed===
A helpful extra step is to use preseeding to have ''wicd'' installed automatically and to add the first user added to the ''sudo'' group. With ''wicd'' you can easily connect to a WiFi access point without a GUI. Create a text file named ''preseed.cfg'' on the flash drive and put the following in it:

d-i passwd/user-default-groups string cdrom floppy sudo audio dip \
video plugdev netdev scanner bluetooth
d-i pkgsel/include string sudo wicd-curses wicd-cli

At the bottom of the aforementioned instructions on making a bootable flash drive are instructions on getting the ''preseed.cfg'' file installed to the drive.

When you boot into your new system, remember that you need to explicitly tell ''wicd'' what the wireless LAN device is. Use the {{cmdroot | ifconfig}} command to check what it is. This turned out to be ''wlan0'' for me, but it might be different if you have a different interface.

Preseeding is a great way to preselect what you want an install to do, saving you time and aggravation. Read more about it [https://wiki.debian.org/DebianInstaller/Preseed here] and [http://www.debian.org/releases/stable/i386/apbs02.html.en here]. As demonstrated here, you don't have to have a long and drawn-out preseed.cfg file.

===Booting the Flash Drive===
Plug in your bootable flash drive and turn on your T420. Quickly press F1 to get into the BIOS. Check to make sure that booting from a USB flash drive is enabled. Don't change its priority. If you changed anything, save and exit to reboot the machine. Quickly press F12 to get a boot menu and select the flash drive. The Debian installation process will then begin.

===Not Installing a GUI===
After answering questions about what keyboard you have, timezone, root password, first user, and so on; you will be shown a menu of software to install. There are ten options. "Debian Desktop Environment", "Print server", "Laptop", and "Standard system utilities" should be preselected for you. If you don't care for Gnome3, deselect "Debian Desktop Environment". That will yield a machine with no GUI at all. Detailed below is the procedure for installing MATE.

The remaining steps of the install process are uneventful. You will end up with a bootable and usable system.

==Post-Install Configuration==
===MATE Desktop===
Add this line to /etc/apt/sources.list:
deb http://packages.mate-desktop.org/repo/debian/ wheezy main
Then update your APT cache
{{cmdroot | apt-get update}}
Install the MATE keys with
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-archive-keyring}}
and press 'Y' when you're asked if your sure. Then do:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-core}}
This installs the basic environment. If you want more, do:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-desktop-environment}}
For even more:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-desktop-environment-extra}}
Now, if you don't want to install ''gdm3'', you'll need to install the xinit package:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install xinit}}
This will enable you to start an X session by typing "startx".

===Sleep and Hibernate===

Install the packages ''hibernate'' and ''nvram-wakeup''. The ''thinkpad'' and ''nvram'' modules should automatically install without needing to list them in /etc/modules. After a reboot, the '''Fn-F4''' and '''Fn-F12''' key combinations will cause suspend-to-RAM and hibernate-to-disk respectively.

===Discrete Graphics versus Integrated Graphics===

Make sure you have ''Nvidia Optimus'' and switchable graphics enabled in the BIOS. Then install Bumblebee.

Read [https://wiki.debian.org/Bumblebee this] from the Debian wiki about Bumblebee. This tool is now included in the Debian repos. Basically, it boils down to this:

Add this line to /etc/apt/sources.list:
deb http://YOURMIRROR.debian.org/debian wheezy-backports main contrib non-free

Do ''apt-get update'' and then this:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install -t wheezy-backports bumblebee-nvidia primus mesa-utils}}

This specifies that you want to use the proprietary drivers. Remove ''-nvidia'' from ''bumblebee-nvidia'' if you want the open-source ones.

Edit ''/etc/X11/xorg.conf'' and add the following "Device" section just below the first:
Section "Device"
Driver "nvidia"
BusID "PCI:1:0:0"
Identifier "Card1"
EndSection

Edit ''/etc/bumblebee/bumblebee.conf'' and look for the "[driver-nvidia]" section. There you will see a line that looks like this:
KernelDriver=nvidia

Change that to:
KernelDriver=nvidia-current

Restart bumblebeed:
{{cmdroot | service bumblebeed restart}}

Now you should be able to start an X11 session. Start a terminal emulator and type:
optirun glxgears --info

Unfortunately glxgears is a very poor test of 3D acceleration. http://unigine.com has several benchmarks of varying sophistication and cost (some are free as in beer). These benchmarks will yield good results if the quality is set to "low". Laptop video interfaces are always rather poor compared to desktop ones.

{{todo|Not Fully Tested}}

===Integrated Webcam===

{{todo|Incomplete}}

Installing Debian on a ThinkPad T420

2014-01-07T12:57:29Z

Dgriffi: /* Discrete Graphics versus Integrated Graphics */

==The machine==
This is a {{T420}} that I bought secondhand off Ebay in December of 2013. I opted to buy this instead of a new Thinkpad because I dislike the new 6-row keyboards and the buttonless trackpads. This is its configuration:

* Intel® Core™ i5-2520M (2.5GHz, 3MB L3, 1333MHz FSB)
* Discrete NVIDIA NVS 4200M (1GB VRAM) with [[Switchable Graphics|Optimus™ Technology]]
* UEFI BIOS Version 83ET76WW (1.46)
* 4GB DDR3 - 1333MHz main memory
* 14.0" HD+ (1600 x 900) (230 NITS) TFT display
* Intel® 82577LM Gigabit (Hanksville) Digital Office ethernet adapter
* Intel Centrino Advanced-N 6205 (Taylor Peak) 2x2 AGN WLAN adapter

==Installation==
===Preparing a Bootable Flash Drive===
I installed Debian 7.3.0 (Wheezy) from a bootable flash drive. The process of creating bootable flash drive is described [http://hyper.to/blog/link/debian-installer-on-a-usb-key/ here]. It is helpful to add [http://packages.debian.org/wheezy/all/firmware-iwlwifi/download firmware-iwlwifi] to this drive so wireless networking can work while you're installing. The installer will notice this and install it automatically.

===Installing ''wicd'' With Preseed===
A helpful extra step is to use preseeding to have ''wicd'' installed automatically and to add the first user added to the ''sudo'' group. With ''wicd'' you can easily connect to a WiFi access point without a GUI. Create a text file named ''preseed.cfg'' on the flash drive and put the following in it:

d-i passwd/user-default-groups string cdrom floppy sudo audio dip \
video plugdev netdev scanner bluetooth
d-i pkgsel/include string sudo wicd-curses wicd-cli

At the bottom of the aforementioned instructions on making a bootable flash drive are instructions on getting the ''preseed.cfg'' file installed to the drive.

When you boot into your new system, remember that you need to explicitly tell ''wicd'' what the wireless LAN device is. Use the {{cmdroot | ifconfig}} command to check what it is. This turned out to be ''wlan0'' for me, but it might be different if you have a different interface.

Preseeding is a great way to preselect what you want an install to do, saving you time and aggravation. Read more about it [https://wiki.debian.org/DebianInstaller/Preseed here] and [http://www.debian.org/releases/stable/i386/apbs02.html.en here]. As demonstrated here, you don't have to have a long and drawn-out preseed.cfg file.

===Booting the Flash Drive===
Plug in your bootable flash drive and turn on your T420. Quickly press F1 to get into the BIOS. Check to make sure that booting from a USB flash drive is enabled. Don't change its priority. If you changed anything, save and exit to reboot the machine. Quickly press F12 to get a boot menu and select the flash drive. The Debian installation process will then begin.

===Not Installing a GUI===
After answering questions about what keyboard you have, timezone, root password, first user, and so on; you will be shown a menu of software to install. There are ten options. "Debian Desktop Environment", "Print server", "Laptop", and "Standard system utilities" should be preselected for you. If you don't care for Gnome3, deselect "Debian Desktop Environment". That will yield a machine with no GUI at all. Detailed below is the procedure for installing MATE.

The remaining steps of the install process are uneventful. You will end up with a bootable and usable system.

==Post-Install Configuration==
===MATE Desktop===
Add this line to /etc/apt/sources.list:
deb http://packages.mate-desktop.org/repo/debian/ wheezy main
Then update your APT cache
{{cmdroot | apt-get update}}
Install the MATE keys with
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-archive-keyring}}
and press 'Y' when you're asked if your sure. Then do:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-core}}
This installs the basic environment. If you want more, do:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-desktop-environment}}
For even more:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-desktop-environment-extra}}
Now, if you don't want to install ''gdm3'', you'll need to install the xinit package:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install xinit}}
This will enable you to start an X session by typing "startx".

===Sleep and Hibernate===

Install the packages ''hibernate'' and ''nvram-wakeup''. The ''thinkpad'' and ''nvram'' modules should automatically install without needing to list them in /etc/modules. After a reboot, the '''Fn-F4''' and '''Fn-F12''' key combinations will cause suspend-to-RAM and hibernate-to-disk respectively.

===Discrete Graphics versus Integrated Graphics===

Make sure you have ''Nvidia Optimus'' and switchable graphics enabled in the BIOS. Then install Bumblebee.

Read [https://wiki.debian.org/Bumblebee|this] from the Debian wiki about Bumblebee. This tool is now included in the Debian repos. Basically, it boils down to this:

Add this line to /etc/apt/sources.list:
deb http://YOURMIRROR.debian.org/debian wheezy-backports main contrib non-free

Do ''apt-get update'' and then this:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install -t wheezy-backports bumblebee-nvidia primus mesa-utils}}

This specifies that you want to use the proprietary drivers. Remove ''-nvidia'' from ''bumblebee-nvidia'' if you want the open-source ones.

Edit ''/etc/X11/xorg.conf'' and add the following "Device" section just below the first:
Section "Device"
Driver "nvidia"
BusID "PCI:1:0:0"
Identifier "Card1"
EndSection

Edit ''/etc/bumblebee/bumblebee.conf'' and look for the "[driver-nvidia]" section. There you will see a line that looks like this:
KernelDriver=nvidia

Change that to:
KernelDriver=nvidia-current

Now you should be able to start an X11 session. Start a terminal emulator and type:
optirun glxgears --info

Unfortunately glxgears is a very poor test of 3D acceleration. http://unigine.com has several benchmarks of varying sophistication and cost (some are free as in beer). These benchmarks will yield good results if the quality is set to "low". Laptop video interfaces are always rather poor compared to desktop ones.

{{todo|Not Fully Tested}}

===Integrated Webcam===

{{todo|Incomplete}}

Installing Debian on a ThinkPad T420

2014-01-07T12:33:16Z

Dgriffi: Optimus graphics

==The machine==
This is a {{T420}} that I bought secondhand off Ebay in December of 2013. I opted to buy this instead of a new Thinkpad because I dislike the new 6-row keyboards and the buttonless trackpads. This is its configuration:

* Intel® Core™ i5-2520M (2.5GHz, 3MB L3, 1333MHz FSB)
* Discrete NVIDIA NVS 4200M (1GB VRAM) with [[Switchable Graphics|Optimus™ Technology]]
* UEFI BIOS Version 83ET76WW (1.46)
* 4GB DDR3 - 1333MHz main memory
* 14.0" HD+ (1600 x 900) (230 NITS) TFT display
* Intel® 82577LM Gigabit (Hanksville) Digital Office ethernet adapter
* Intel Centrino Advanced-N 6205 (Taylor Peak) 2x2 AGN WLAN adapter

==Installation==
===Preparing a Bootable Flash Drive===
I installed Debian 7.3.0 (Wheezy) from a bootable flash drive. The process of creating bootable flash drive is described [http://hyper.to/blog/link/debian-installer-on-a-usb-key/ here]. It is helpful to add [http://packages.debian.org/wheezy/all/firmware-iwlwifi/download firmware-iwlwifi] to this drive so wireless networking can work while you're installing. The installer will notice this and install it automatically.

===Installing ''wicd'' With Preseed===
A helpful extra step is to use preseeding to have ''wicd'' installed automatically and to add the first user added to the ''sudo'' group. With ''wicd'' you can easily connect to a WiFi access point without a GUI. Create a text file named ''preseed.cfg'' on the flash drive and put the following in it:

d-i passwd/user-default-groups string cdrom floppy sudo audio dip \
video plugdev netdev scanner bluetooth
d-i pkgsel/include string sudo wicd-curses wicd-cli

At the bottom of the aforementioned instructions on making a bootable flash drive are instructions on getting the ''preseed.cfg'' file installed to the drive.

When you boot into your new system, remember that you need to explicitly tell ''wicd'' what the wireless LAN device is. Use the {{cmdroot | ifconfig}} command to check what it is. This turned out to be ''wlan0'' for me, but it might be different if you have a different interface.

Preseeding is a great way to preselect what you want an install to do, saving you time and aggravation. Read more about it [https://wiki.debian.org/DebianInstaller/Preseed here] and [http://www.debian.org/releases/stable/i386/apbs02.html.en here]. As demonstrated here, you don't have to have a long and drawn-out preseed.cfg file.

===Booting the Flash Drive===
Plug in your bootable flash drive and turn on your T420. Quickly press F1 to get into the BIOS. Check to make sure that booting from a USB flash drive is enabled. Don't change its priority. If you changed anything, save and exit to reboot the machine. Quickly press F12 to get a boot menu and select the flash drive. The Debian installation process will then begin.

===Not Installing a GUI===
After answering questions about what keyboard you have, timezone, root password, first user, and so on; you will be shown a menu of software to install. There are ten options. "Debian Desktop Environment", "Print server", "Laptop", and "Standard system utilities" should be preselected for you. If you don't care for Gnome3, deselect "Debian Desktop Environment". That will yield a machine with no GUI at all. Detailed below is the procedure for installing MATE.

The remaining steps of the install process are uneventful. You will end up with a bootable and usable system.

==Post-Install Configuration==
===MATE Desktop===
Add this line to /etc/apt/sources.list:
deb http://packages.mate-desktop.org/repo/debian/ wheezy main
Then update your APT cache
{{cmdroot | apt-get update}}
Install the MATE keys with
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-archive-keyring}}
and press 'Y' when you're asked if your sure. Then do:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-core}}
This installs the basic environment. If you want more, do:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-desktop-environment}}
For even more:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-desktop-environment-extra}}
Now, if you don't want to install ''gdm3'', you'll need to install the xinit package:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install xinit}}
This will enable you to start an X session by typing "startx".

===Sleep and Hibernate===

Install the packages ''hibernate'' and ''nvram-wakeup''. The ''thinkpad'' and ''nvram'' modules should automatically install without needing to list them in /etc/modules. After a reboot, the '''Fn-F4''' and '''Fn-F12''' key combinations will cause suspend-to-RAM and hibernate-to-disk respectively.

===Discrete Graphics versus Integrated Graphics===

Make sure you have ''Nvidia Optimus'' and switchable graphics enabled in the BIOS. Then install Bumblebee.

Read [https://wiki.debian.org/Bumblebee|this] from the Debian wiki about Bumblebee. This tool is now included in the Debian repos. Basically, it boils down to this:

Add this line to /etc/apt/sources.list:
deb http://YOURMIRROR.debian.org/debian wheezy-backports main contrib non-free

Do ''apt-get update'' and then this:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install -t wheezy-backports bumblebee-nvidia primus mesa-utils}}

This specifies that you want to use the proprietary drivers. Remove ''-nvidia'' from ''bumblebee-nvidia'' if you want the open-source ones.

Edit ''/etc/X11/xorg.conf'' and add the following "Device" section just below the first:
Section "Device"
Driver "nvidia"
BusID "PCI:1:0:0"
Identifier "Card1"
EndSection

Edit ''/etc/bumblebee/bumblebee.conf'' and look for the "[driver-nvidia]" section. There you will see a line that looks like this:
KernelDriver=nvidia

Change that to:
KernelDriver=nvidia-current

Now you should be able to start an X11 session. Start a terminal emulator and type:
optirun glxgears --info

Unfortunately glxgears is a very poor test of 3D acceleration. http://unigine.com has several benchmarks of varying sophistication and cost (some are free as in beer).

{{todo|Not Fully Tested}}

===Integrated Webcam===

{{todo|Incomplete}}

Installing Debian on a ThinkPad T420

2014-01-07T08:51:24Z

Dgriffi: /* MATE Desktop */

Installing Debian on a ThinkPad T420

2014-01-07T08:08:21Z

Dgriffi: /* Sleep and Hibernate */

Template:Models

2014-01-07T07:50:50Z

Dgriffi: /* Current Series */ spelling

{| width="100%"
| <div style="margin: 0; margin-right:10px; border: 1px solid #dfdfdf; padding: 0em 1em 1em 1em; background-color:#F8F8FF; align:right;">
=== ThinkPad Models [{{SERVER}}{{localurl:{{NAMESPACE}}:{{PAGENAME}}|from=A Series}} <nowiki>[</nowiki>exclude numbered<nowiki>]</nowiki>] [{{SERVER}}{{localurl:{{NAMESPACE}}:{{PAGENAME}}|from=220}} <nowiki>[</nowiki>include numbered<nowiki>]</nowiki>]===
This page offers information about the various models published throughout the [[ThinkPad History|history of ThinkPad computers]]. 
You can also read about the [[ThinkPad|origin of the ThinkPad brand]]. 
If you need more specific information about a precise model, try to find it within the [[Hardware Specifications]].
</div>
|| <thinkwiki>7</thinkwiki>
|}

If your ThinkPad model series is not listed here yet, please read [[Adding a new ThinkPad series or category to ThinkWiki]].

The following is a list of models from various [[ThinkPad series|series of ThinkPad computers]]:

=== Current Series ===
* '''[[:Category:E Series|ThinkPad E or Edge]]''': Stylish Business Laptops
* '''[[:Category:L Series|ThinkPad L]]''': Affordable Business
* '''[[:Category:S Series|ThinkPad S]]''': Ultrabooks for Business
* '''[[:Category:T Series|ThinkPad T]]''': Legendary Business Tools
* '''[[:Category:W Series|ThinkPad W]]''': Mobile Workstations
* '''[[:Category:X Series|ThinkPad X]]''': Thin and Light Laptops
* '''ThinkPad {{Yoga}}''': Multimode Business laptops
* '''ThinkPad {{Twist}}''': Convertable Ultrabook
* '''ThinkPad {{Helix}}''': Detachable Business Ultrabook

=== Withdrawn Series ===
* '''[[:Category:A Series|ThinkPad A]]''': All in One Notebooks, heavy, large, three spindle machines, all drives internal, one or two swappable drive bays.
* '''[[:Category:G Series|ThinkPad G]]''': Desktop replacement machines built on desktop processors, large and heavy with limited battery runtime.
* '''[[:Category:R Series|ThinkPad R]]''': Traditionally the budget laptop line.
* '''[[:Category:SL Series|ThinkPad SL]]''': Lower-end notebook designed for small business owners on a budget looking for both multimedia entertainment and business functionality.
* '''[[:Category:Z Series|ThinkPad Z]]''': Offers widescreen for the ultimate multimedia experience
* '''[[:Category:Lenovo 3000| Lenovo 3000]]''': Not a ThinkPad, but Lenovo's "house brand".
* '''ThinkPad 130''': Japanese version of the i1300
* '''[[:Category:2 Series|ThinkPad 2xx]]''': Classic 10"-sub-notebook models.
* '''[[:Category:3 Series|ThinkPad 3xx]]''': Classic mid-range models.
* '''[[:Category:5 Series|ThinkPad 5xx]]''': Classic ultraportable models.
* '''[[:Category:6 Series|ThinkPad 6xx]]''': Classic Slimline models.
* '''[[:Category:7 Series|ThinkPad 7xx]]''': Classic high-end models.
* '''[[:Category:8 Series|ThinkPad 8xx]]''': Classic PowerPC models.
*'''[[:Category:I Series|ThinkPad i series]]''': Classic budget models manufactured by Acer under license from IBM.
* '''[[:Category:TransNote|ThinkPad TransNote]]''': Classic model.
* '''[[PC110]]''': Classic Palm-Top model.

The subcategories below are collections of all information regarding specific models of ThinkPads.

Installing Debian on a ThinkPad T420

2013-12-23T10:14:05Z

Dgriffi: /* Installing wicd With Preseed */ sp

Installing Debian on a ThinkPad T420

2013-12-23T10:12:40Z

Dgriffi: fleshing it out

Installing Debian on a ThinkPad T420

2013-12-22T16:30:49Z

Dgriffi: â†Created page with '==The machine== This is a {{T420}} that I bought secondhand off Ebay in December of 2013. I opted to buy this instead of a new Thinkpad because I dislike the new 6-row...'

Installing Debian 7.0 (Wheezy) on a ThinkPad T42

2013-12-22T15:49:30Z

Dgriffi:

Installing Debian 7.0 (Wheezy) on a ThinkPad T42

2013-09-16T04:03:41Z

Dgriffi: /* Installation */ MATE

==The machine==
This is a {{T42}} that I ordered brand-new from IBM shortly before the Thinkpad line was sold to Lenovo. Various parts have been changed and upgraded from the stock configuration. This is its current configuration.

*Intel Pentium M 1.70GHz
*2G RAM
*Fujitsu MHU2100AT HD (100G)
*1024x768 LCD panel
*CDRW/DVD combo: HL-DT-ST RW/DVD
*ATI Mobility Radeon 9600
*Intel PRO/Wireless 2200BG
*BIOS version 3.23

==Installation==
I installed Debian 7.0 (Wheezy) from a bootable flash drive. The process of creating bootable flash drive is described [http://hyper.to/blog/link/debian-installer-on-a-usb-key/ here]. It is helpful to add the non-free firmware [http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=firmware-linux-nonfree+0.36+_all.deb package] and wifi firmware [http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=firmware-ipw2x00_0.36+_all.deb firmware] to this drive so wifi can work as soon as you're done installing. Deselect the option to install a desktop. We'll install MATE instead. The install process is uneventful. You will end up with a bootable and usable system.

When you boot into the new system, go to [http://debgen.simplylinux.ch/ here] and create a sources.list file that's suitable for your geographic location and software needs. I highly reccomend that you select at least Main, Contrib, Non-free, and Security. Put the resulting text in {{path|/etc/apt/sources.list}} and comment out or delete references to a CD repository. Now, if you didn't add them to the flash drive, install firmware-linux-nonfree and firmware-ipw2x00_0 by doing {{cmdroot | apt-get install firmware-linux-nonfree firmware-ipw2x00_0}}.

The ''sudo'' package is not installed because we deselected the desktop packages. These commands will install it and add you to the ''sudo'' group.
{{cmdroot | apt-get install sudo}}
{{cmdroot | adduser <myusername> sudo}}

Now let's get MATE installed. Add this line to /etc/apt/sources.list:
deb http://packages.mate-desktop.org/repo/debian/ wheezy main
Install the MATE keys with
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-archive-keyring}}
and press 'Y' when you're asked if your sure. Then do:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-core}}
This installs the basic environment. If you want more, do:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-desktop-environment}}
For even more:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install mate-desktop-environment-extra}}
Now, if you don't want to install GDM, you'll need to install the xinit package:
{{cmdroot | apt-get install xinit}}
This will enable you to start an X session by typing "startx".

==Wireless==
I prefer using ''wicd'' for controlling network connections. Doing the following as root should install all you need for that {{cmdroot | apt-get install wicd-cli wicd-curses wicd-gtk}}
You will need to explicitly tell ''wicd'' the name of your wireless device name. It won't guess. Go to Preferences and you'll see a section labeled "Network Interfaces". The "Wireless Interface" field is blank. Put ''eth1'' there.

==Sleep and Hibernate==
This will install some packages and dependencies that will allow for presses of Fn-F4 and Fn-F12 to cause sleep and suspend respectively.
{{cmdroot | apt-get install acpid acpi-support hibernate nvram-wakeup}}
Commands will also be installed that allow you to put the machine into sleep or suspend mode at the command line.
That can be done with either of these command:
{{cmdroot | hibernate-ram}}
{{cmdroot | hibernate-disk}}
Make sure the ''thinkpad_acpi'' and ''nvram'' modules are loaded at boot time. We won't load them now because a reboot will be necessary.
{{cmdroot | echo "thinkpad_acpi" >>/etc/modules}}
{{cmdroot | echo "nvram" >>/etc/modules}}
Next, go to {{path | /etc/modprobe.d}} and look at the file radeon-kms.conf. There should be one line in there that reads:
options radeon modeset=1
That '1' there turns on KMS mode for the video interface. This does not work with the T42. Change that '1' to '0'.
{{cmdroot|echo "options radeon modeset=0" > /etc/modprobe.d/radeon-kms.conf}}

You might have a problem with Fn-F12 (see Debian Bug number [http://bugs.debian.org/cgi-bin/bugreport.cgi?bug=704275 704275]). To work around that, edit {{path|/etc/acpi/sleep_suspend.sh}} and replace the call to "pm-hibernate" with "hibernate-disk".

Now reboot so that the kernel picks up of the above ''radeon modeset=0'' setting. Your computer should now go into suspend and hibernation when the appropriate key combination is pressed.

==Other Things==
The ''thinkfan'' package may be desirable for exerting finer control over the CPU fan. The ''tpb'' package may be desirable if you want to use Fn key combinations other than Sleep and Suspend.

{{todo|Incomplete}}

Installing Debian 7.0 (Wheezy) on a ThinkPad T42

2013-09-13T02:44:37Z

Dgriffi: /* Installation */ better procedure for making a bootable flash drive

==The machine==
This is a {{T42}} that I ordered brand-new from IBM shortly before the Thinkpad line was sold to Lenovo. Various parts have been changed and upgraded from the stock configuration. This is its current configuration.

*Intel Pentium M 1.70GHz
*2G RAM
*Fujitsu MHU2100AT HD (100G)
*1024x768 LCD panel
*CDRW/DVD combo: HL-DT-ST RW/DVD
*ATI Mobility Radeon 9600
*Intel PRO/Wireless 2200BG
*BIOS version 3.23

==Installation==
I installed Debian 7.0 (Wheezy) from a bootable flash drive. The process of creating bootable flash drive is described [http://hyper.to/blog/link/debian-installer-on-a-usb-key/ here]. It is helpful to add the non-free firmware [http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=firmware-linux-nonfree+0.36+_all.deb package] and wifi firmware [http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=firmware-ipw2x00_0.36+_all.deb firmware] to this drive so wifi can work as soon as you're done installing. The install process is uneventful. You will end up with a bootable and usable system.

When you boot into the new system, go to [http://debgen.simplylinux.ch/ here] and create a sources.list file that's suitable for your geographic location and software needs. I highly reccomend that you select at least Main, Contrib, Non-free, and Security. Put the resulting text in {{path|/etc/apt/sources.list}} and comment out or delete references to a CD repository. Now, if you didn't add them to the flash drive, install firmware-linux-nonfree and firmware-ipw2x00_0 by doing {{cmdroot | apt-get install firmware-linux-nonfree firmware-ipw2x00_0}}.

The ''sudo'' package is still not standard. These commands will install it and add you to the ''sudo'' group.
{{cmdroot | apt-get install sudo}}
{{cmdroot | adduser <myusername> sudo}}

==Wireless==
I prefer using ''wicd'' for controlling network connections. Doing the following as root should install all you need for that {{cmdroot | apt-get install wicd-cli wicd-curses wicd-gtk}}
You will need to explicitly tell ''wicd'' the name of your wireless device name. It won't guess. Go to Preferences and you'll see a section labeled "Network Interfaces". The "Wireless Interface" field is blank. Put ''eth1'' there.

==Sleep and Hibernate==
This will install some packages and dependencies that will allow for presses of Fn-F4 and Fn-F12 to cause sleep and suspend respectively.
{{cmdroot | apt-get install acpid acpi-support hibernate nvram-wakeup}}
Commands will also be installed that allow you to put the machine into sleep or suspend mode at the command line.
That can be done with either of these command:
{{cmdroot | hibernate-ram}}
{{cmdroot | hibernate-disk}}
Make sure the ''thinkpad_acpi'' and ''nvram'' modules are loaded at boot time. We won't load them now because a reboot will be necessary.
{{cmdroot | echo "thinkpad_acpi" >>/etc/modules}}
{{cmdroot | echo "nvram" >>/etc/modules}}
Next, go to {{path | /etc/modprobe.d}} and look at the file radeon-kms.conf. There should be one line in there that reads:
options radeon modeset=1
That '1' there turns on KMS mode for the video interface. This does not work with the T42. Change that '1' to '0'.
{{cmdroot|echo "options radeon modeset=0" > /etc/modprobe.d/radeon-kms.conf}}

You might have a problem with Fn-F12 (see Debian Bug number [http://bugs.debian.org/cgi-bin/bugreport.cgi?bug=704275 704275]). To work around that, edit {{path|/etc/acpi/sleep_suspend.sh}} and replace the call to "pm-hibernate" with "hibernate-disk".

Now reboot so that the kernel picks up of the above ''radeon modeset=0'' setting. Your computer should now go into suspend and hibernation when the appropriate key combination is pressed.

==Other Things==
The ''thinkfan'' package may be desirable for exerting finer control over the CPU fan. The ''tpb'' package may be desirable if you want to use Fn key combinations other than Sleep and Suspend.

{{todo|Incomplete}}

Installing Debian 7.0 (Wheezy) on a ThinkPad T42

2013-09-13T02:38:05Z

Dgriffi: /* The machine */ verified stuff

==The machine==
This is a {{T42}} that I ordered brand-new from IBM shortly before the Thinkpad line was sold to Lenovo. Various parts have been changed and upgraded from the stock configuration. This is its current configuration.

*Intel Pentium M 1.70GHz
*2G RAM
*Fujitsu MHU2100AT HD (100G)
*1024x768 LCD panel
*CDRW/DVD combo: HL-DT-ST RW/DVD
*ATI Mobility Radeon 9600
*Intel PRO/Wireless 2200BG
*BIOS version 3.23

==Installation==
I installed Debian 7.0 (Wheezy) from a bootable flash drive. The process of creating bootable flash drive is described [http://www.debian.org/releases/stable/i386/ch04s03.html.en here]. It is helpful to add the non-free firmware [http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=firmware-linux-nonfree+0.36+_all.deb package] and wifi firmware [http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=firmware-ipw2x00_0.36+_all.deb firmware] to this drive so wifi can work as soon as you're done installing. The install process is uneventful. You will end up with a bootable and usable system.

When you boot into the new system, go to [http://debgen.simplylinux.ch/ here] and create a sources.list file that's suitable for your geographic location and software needs. I highly reccomend that you select at least Main, Contrib, Non-free, and Security. Put the resulting text in {{path|/etc/apt/sources.list}} and comment out or delete references to a CD repository. Now, if you didn't add them to the flash drive, install firmware-linux-nonfree and firmware-ipw2x00_0 by doing {{cmdroot | apt-get install firmware-linux-nonfree firmware-ipw2x00_0}}.

The ''sudo'' package is still not standard. These commands will install it and add you to the ''sudo'' group.
{{cmdroot | apt-get install sudo}}
{{cmdroot | adduser <myusername> sudo}}

==Wireless==
I prefer using ''wicd'' for controlling network connections. Doing the following as root should install all you need for that {{cmdroot | apt-get install wicd-cli wicd-curses wicd-gtk}}
You will need to explicitly tell ''wicd'' the name of your wireless device name. It won't guess. Go to Preferences and you'll see a section labeled "Network Interfaces". The "Wireless Interface" field is blank. Put ''eth1'' there.

==Sleep and Hibernate==
This will install some packages and dependencies that will allow for presses of Fn-F4 and Fn-F12 to cause sleep and suspend respectively.
{{cmdroot | apt-get install acpid acpi-support hibernate nvram-wakeup}}
Commands will also be installed that allow you to put the machine into sleep or suspend mode at the command line.
That can be done with either of these command:
{{cmdroot | hibernate-ram}}
{{cmdroot | hibernate-disk}}
Make sure the ''thinkpad_acpi'' and ''nvram'' modules are loaded at boot time. We won't load them now because a reboot will be necessary.
{{cmdroot | echo "thinkpad_acpi" >>/etc/modules}}
{{cmdroot | echo "nvram" >>/etc/modules}}
Next, go to {{path | /etc/modprobe.d}} and look at the file radeon-kms.conf. There should be one line in there that reads:
options radeon modeset=1
That '1' there turns on KMS mode for the video interface. This does not work with the T42. Change that '1' to '0'.
{{cmdroot|echo "options radeon modeset=0" > /etc/modprobe.d/radeon-kms.conf}}

You might have a problem with Fn-F12 (see Debian Bug number [http://bugs.debian.org/cgi-bin/bugreport.cgi?bug=704275 704275]). To work around that, edit {{path|/etc/acpi/sleep_suspend.sh}} and replace the call to "pm-hibernate" with "hibernate-disk".

Now reboot so that the kernel picks up of the above ''radeon modeset=0'' setting. Your computer should now go into suspend and hibernation when the appropriate key combination is pressed.

==Other Things==
The ''thinkfan'' package may be desirable for exerting finer control over the CPU fan. The ''tpb'' package may be desirable if you want to use Fn key combinations other than Sleep and Suspend.

{{todo|Incomplete}}

Installing Debian 7.0 (Wheezy) on a ThinkPad T42

2013-03-30T22:47:27Z

Dgriffi: /* Sleep and Hibernate */ bug 704275 workaround

==The machine==
This is a {{T42}} that I ordered brand-new from IBM shortly before the Thinkpad line was sold to Lenovo. Various parts have been changed and upgraded from the stock configuration. This is its current configuration.

*Intel Pentium M 1.70GHz
*2G RAM
*Fujitsu MHU2100AT HD (100G)
*1024x768 LCD panel
*CDRW/DVD combo: HL-DT-ST RW/DVD (fixme)
*ATI Mobility Radeon 9600
*Intel PRO/Wireless 2200BG (verify)
*BIOS version 3.23 (verify)

{{todo|I need to verify this information with a reboot}}

==Installation==
I installed Debian 7.0 (Wheezy) from a bootable flash drive. The process of creating bootable flash drive is described [http://www.debian.org/releases/stable/i386/ch04s03.html.en here]. It is helpful to add the non-free firmware [http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=firmware-linux-nonfree+0.36+_all.deb package] and wifi firmware [http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=firmware-ipw2x00_0.36+_all.deb firmware] to this drive so wifi can work as soon as you're done installing. The install process is uneventful. You will end up with a bootable and usable system.

When you boot into the new system, go to [http://debgen.simplylinux.ch/ here] and create a sources.list file that's suitable for your geographic location and software needs. I highly reccomend that you select at least Main, Contrib, Non-free, and Security. Put the resulting text in {{path|/etc/apt/sources.list}} and comment out or delete references to a CD repository. Now, if you didn't add them to the flash drive, install firmware-linux-nonfree and firmware-ipw2x00_0 by doing {{cmdroot | apt-get install firmware-linux-nonfree firmware-ipw2x00_0}}.

The ''sudo'' package is still not standard. These commands will install it and add you to the ''sudo'' group.
{{cmdroot | apt-get install sudo}}
{{cmdroot | adduser <myusername> sudo}}

==Wireless==
I prefer using ''wicd'' for controlling network connections. Doing the following as root should install all you need for that {{cmdroot | apt-get install wicd-cli wicd-curses wicd-gtk}}
You will need to explicitly tell ''wicd'' the name of your wireless device name. It won't guess. Go to Preferences and you'll see a section labeled "Network Interfaces". The "Wireless Interface" field is blank. Put ''eth1'' there.

==Sleep and Hibernate==
This will install some packages and dependencies that will allow for presses of Fn-F4 and Fn-F12 to cause sleep and suspend respectively.
{{cmdroot | apt-get install acpid acpi-support hibernate nvram-wakeup}}
Commands will also be installed that allow you to put the machine into sleep or suspend mode at the command line.
That can be done with either of these command:
{{cmdroot | hibernate-ram}}
{{cmdroot | hibernate-disk}}
Make sure the ''thinkpad_acpi'' and ''nvram'' modules are loaded at boot time. We won't load them now because a reboot will be necessary.
{{cmdroot | echo "thinkpad_acpi" >>/etc/modules}}
{{cmdroot | echo "nvram" >>/etc/modules}}
Next, go to {{path | /etc/modprobe.d}} and look at the file radeon-kms.conf. There should be one line in there that reads:
options radeon modeset=1
That '1' there turns on KMS mode for the video interface. This does not work with the T42. Change that '1' to '0'.
{{cmdroot|echo "options radeon modeset=0" > /etc/modprobe.d/radeon-kms.conf}}

You might have a problem with Fn-F12 (see Debian Bug number [http://bugs.debian.org/cgi-bin/bugreport.cgi?bug=704275 704275]). To work around that, edit {{path|/etc/acpi/sleep_suspend.sh}} and replace the call to "pm-hibernate" with "hibernate-disk".

Now reboot so that the kernel picks up of the above ''radeon modeset=0'' setting. Your computer should now go into suspend and hibernation when the appropriate key combination is pressed.

==Other Things==
The ''thinkfan'' package may be desirable for exerting finer control over the CPU fan. The ''tpb'' package may be desirable if you want to use Fn key combinations other than Sleep and Suspend.

{{todo|Incomplete}}

Installing Debian 7.0 (Wheezy) on a ThinkPad T42

2013-03-29T07:16:46Z

Dgriffi: /* Installation */ typo

==The machine==
This is a {{T42}} that I ordered brand-new from IBM shortly before the Thinkpad line was sold to Lenovo. Various parts have been changed and upgraded from the stock configuration. This is its current configuration.

*Intel Pentium M 1.70GHz
*2G RAM
*Fujitsu MHU2100AT HD (100G)
*1024x768 LCD panel
*CDRW/DVD combo: HL-DT-ST RW/DVD (fixme)
*ATI Mobility Radeon 9600
*Intel PRO/Wireless 2200BG (verify)
*BIOS version 3.23 (verify)

{{todo|I need to verify this information with a reboot}}

==Installation==
I installed Debian 7.0 (Wheezy) from a bootable flash drive. The process of creating bootable flash drive is described [http://www.debian.org/releases/stable/i386/ch04s03.html.en here]. It is helpful to add the non-free firmware [http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=firmware-linux-nonfree+0.36+_all.deb package] and wifi firmware [http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=firmware-ipw2x00_0.36+_all.deb firmware] to this drive so wifi can work as soon as you're done installing. The install process is uneventful. You will end up with a bootable and usable system.

When you boot into the new system, go to [http://debgen.simplylinux.ch/ here] and create a sources.list file that's suitable for your geographic location and software needs. I highly reccomend that you select at least Main, Contrib, Non-free, and Security. Put the resulting text in {{path|/etc/apt/sources.list}} and comment out or delete references to a CD repository. Now, if you didn't add them to the flash drive, install firmware-linux-nonfree and firmware-ipw2x00_0 by doing {{cmdroot | apt-get install firmware-linux-nonfree firmware-ipw2x00_0}}.

The ''sudo'' package is still not standard. These commands will install it and add you to the ''sudo'' group.
{{cmdroot | apt-get install sudo}}
{{cmdroot | adduser <myusername> sudo}}

==Wireless==
I prefer using ''wicd'' for controlling network connections. Doing the following as root should install all you need for that {{cmdroot | apt-get install wicd-cli wicd-curses wicd-gtk}}
You will need to explicitly tell ''wicd'' the name of your wireless device name. It won't guess. Go to Preferences and you'll see a section labeled "Network Interfaces". The "Wireless Interface" field is blank. Put ''eth1'' there.

==Sleep and Hibernate==
This will install some packages and dependencies that will allow for presses of Fn-F4 and Fn-F12 to cause sleep and suspend respectively.
{{cmdroot | apt-get install acpid acpi-support hibernate nvram-wakeup}}
Commands will also be installed that allow you to put the machine into sleep or suspend mode at the command line.
That can be done with either of these command:
{{cmdroot | hibernate-ram}}
{{cmdroot | hibernate-disk}}
Make sure the ''thinkpad_acpi'' and ''nvram'' modules are loaded at boot time. We won't load them now because a reboot will be necessary.
{{cmdroot | echo "thinkpad_acpi" >>/etc/modules}}
{{cmdroot | echo "nvram" >>/etc/modules}}
Next, go to {{path | /etc/modprobe.d}} and look at the file radeon-kms.conf. There should be one line in there that reads:
options radeon modeset=1
That '1' there turns on KMS mode for the video interface. This does not work with the T42. Change that '1' to '0'.
{{cmdroot|echo "options radeon modeset=0" > /etc/modprobe.d/radeon-kms.conf}}

Now reboot so that the kernel picks up of the above ''radeon modeset=0'' setting. Your computer should now go into suspend and hibernation when the appropriate key combination is pressed.

==Other Things==
The ''thinkfan'' package may be desirable for exerting finer control over the CPU fan. The ''tpb'' package may be desirable if you want to use Fn key combinations other than Sleep and Suspend.

{{todo|Incomplete}}

Installing Debian 7.0 (Wheezy) on a ThinkPad T42

2013-03-25T18:55:35Z

Dgriffi: fleshing out hibernate/suspend stuff

==The machine==
This is a {{T42}} that I ordered brand-new from IBM shortly before the Thinkpad line was sold to Lenovo. Various parts have been changed and upgraded from the stock configuration. This is its current configuration.

*Intel Pentium M 1.70GHz
*2G RAM
*Fujitsu MHU2100AT HD (100G)
*1024x768 LCD panel
*CDRW/DVD combo: HL-DT-ST RW/DVD (fixme)
*ATI Mobility Radeon 9600
*Intel PRO/Wireless 2200BG (verify)
*BIOS version 3.23 (verify)

{{todo|I need to verify this information with a reboot}}

==Installation==
I installed Debian 7.0 (Wheezy) from a bootable flash drive. The process of creating bootable flash drive is described [http://www.debian.org/releases/stable/i386/ch04s03.html.en here]. It is helpful the non-free firmware [http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=firmware-linux-nonfree+0.36+_all.deb package] and wifi [http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=firmware-ipw2x00_0.36+_all.deb firmware] to this drive so wifi can work as soon as you're done installing. The install process is uneventful. You will end up with a bootable and usable system.

When you boot into the new system, go to [http://debgen.simplylinux.ch/ here] and create a sources.list file that's suitable for your geographic location and software needs. I highly reccomend that you select at least Main, Contrib, Non-free, and Security. Put the resulting text in {{path|/etc/apt/sources.list}} and comment out or delete references to a CD repository. Now, if you didn't add them to the flash drive, install firmware-linux-nonfree and firmware-ipw2x00_0 by doing {{cmdroot | apt-get install firmware-linux-nonfree firmware-ipw2x00_0}}.

The ''sudo'' package is still not standard. These commands will install it and add you to the ''sudo'' group.
{{cmdroot | apt-get install sudo}}
{{cmdroot | adduser <myusername> sudo}}

==Wireless==
I prefer using ''wicd'' for controlling network connections. Doing the following as root should install all you need for that {{cmdroot | apt-get install wicd-cli wicd-curses wicd-gtk}}
You will need to explicitly tell ''wicd'' the name of your wireless device name. It won't guess. Go to Preferences and you'll see a section labeled "Network Interfaces". The "Wireless Interface" field is blank. Put ''eth1'' there.

==Sleep and Hibernate==
This will install some packages and dependencies that will allow for presses of Fn-F4 and Fn-F12 to cause sleep and suspend respectively.
{{cmdroot | apt-get install acpid acpi-support hibernate nvram-wakeup}}
Commands will also be installed that allow you to put the machine into sleep or suspend mode at the command line.
That can be done with either of these command:
{{cmdroot | hibernate-ram}}
{{cmdroot | hibernate-disk}}
Make sure the ''thinkpad_acpi'' and ''nvram'' modules are loaded at boot time. We won't load them now because a reboot will be necessary.
{{cmdroot | echo "thinkpad_acpi" >>/etc/modules}}
{{cmdroot | echo "nvram" >>/etc/modules}}
Next, go to {{path | /etc/modprobe.d}} and look at the file radeon-kms.conf. There should be one line in there that reads:
options radeon modeset=1
That '1' there turns on KMS mode for the video interface. This does not work with the T42. Change that '1' to '0'.
{{cmdroot|echo "options radeon modeset=0" > /etc/modprobe.d/radeon-kms.conf}}

Now reboot so that the kernel picks up of the above ''radeon modeset=0'' setting. Your computer should now go into suspend and hibernation when the appropriate key combination is pressed.

==Other Things==
The ''thinkfan'' package may be desirable for exerting finer control over the CPU fan. The ''tpb'' package may be desirable if you want to use Fn key combinations other than Sleep and Suspend.

{{todo|Incomplete}}

Installing Debian 7.0 (Wheezy) on a ThinkPad T42

2013-03-25T00:29:54Z

Dgriffi: tweak again

Installing Debian 7.0 (Wheezy) on a ThinkPad T42

2013-03-25T00:23:18Z

Dgriffi: /* Sleep and Hibernate */ stuff

Installing Debian 7.0 (Wheezy) on a ThinkPad T42

2013-03-25T00:14:14Z

Dgriffi: more tweaks

Installing Debian 7.0 (Wheezy) on a ThinkPad T42

2013-03-25T00:08:03Z

Dgriffi: touchups

Installing Debian 7.0 (Wheezy) on a ThinkPad T42

2013-03-24T23:32:17Z

Dgriffi: â†Created page with '==The machine== This is a T42 that I ordered brand-new from IBM shortly before the Thinkpad line was sold to Lenovo. Various parts have been changed and upgraded from ...'

==The machine==
This is a T42 that I ordered brand-new from IBM shortly before the Thinkpad line was sold to Lenovo. Various parts have been changed and upgraded from the stock configuration. This is its current configuration.

*Intel Pentium M 1.70GHz
*2G RAM
*Fujitsu MHU2100AT HD (100G)
*1024x768 LCD panel
*CDRW/DVD combo: HL-DT-ST RW/DVD (fixme)
*ATI Mobility Radeon 9600
*Intel PRO/Wireless 2200BG (verify)
*BIOS version 3.23 (verify)

{{todo|I need to verify this information with a reboot}}

==Installation==
I installed Debian 7.0 (Wheezy) from a bootable flash drive. The process of creating bootable flash drive is described [http://www.debian.org/releases/stable/i386/ch04s03.html.en here]. It is helpful the non-free firmware [http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=firmware-linux-nonfree+0.36+_all.deb package] and wifi [firmware-ipw2x00_0.36_all.deb firmware] to this drive so wifi can work as soon as you're done installing. The install process is uneventful. You will end up with a bootable and usable system.

When you boot into the new system, go to [http://debgen.simplylinux.ch/] and create a sources.list file that's suitable for your geographic location and software needs. I highly reccomend that you select at least Main, Contrib, Non-free, and Security. Put the resulting text in /etc/apt/sources.list and comment out or delete references to a CD repository. Now, if you didn't add them to the flash drive, install firmware-linux-nonfree and firmware-ipw2x00_0 by doing
apt-get install firmware-linux-nonfree firmware-ipw2x00_0
as root. The ''sudo'' package appears to be standard now. Make sure your username is in the ''sudo'' group.

==Wireless==
I prefer using ''wicd'' for controlling network connections. Doing the following as root should install all you need for that:
apt-get install wicd-cli wicd-curses wicd-gtk
You will need to explicitly tell ''wicd'' the name of your wireless device name. It won't guess. Go to Preferences and you'll see a section labeled "Network Interfaces". The "Wireless Interface" field is blank. Put ''eth1'' there.

==Sleep and Hibernate==
Sleep and hibernate do not work out of the box. First make sure the ''nvram'' kernel module is loaded by doing
modprobe nvram
as root and then add ''nvram'' to /etc/modules. Next, go to /etc/modprobe.d and look at the file radeon-kms.conf. There should be one line in there that reads:
options radeon modeset=1
That '1' there turns on KMS mode for the video interface. This does not work with the T42. Change that '1' to '0'.

{{todo|Incomplete}}

User:Dgriffi/Installing Ubuntu 7.04 (Feisty Faun) on a ThinkPad T42

2007-07-20T01:30:49Z

Dgriffi: Initial creation

Created by: [[User:Dgriffi|Dgriffi]] 01:30, 20 July 2007 (UTC)

This article describes how to install Ubuntu Linux 7.04 (Feisty Faun) on an IBM/Ubuntu Thinkpad T42. This is not meant to be a definitive guide (see the Ubuntu Guide at http://www.ubuntuguide.org/ for that).

This article is currently a work in progress and is not meant to be followed yet. For that reason, it is not yet visible in any of the expected categories. Please do not add this article to any category yet. Once I am finished, I will move/copy this article to regular wikispace and add appropriate categories.

==Introduction==

===My Thinkpad===

These are the specifics for my particular Thinkpad.

* IBM Thinkpad T42 2005
* Intel Pentium M (Dothan) 1.7 GHz
* ATI Mobility Radeon 9600 with 64MB
* 14.1" TFT display with 1024x768 resolution (XGA)
* 512 MB PC2700 memory
* 30 GB HDD PATA
* Intel PRO/Wireless 2915ABG Mini-PCI Adapter

===Why Thinkpad?===

Pretty much any distribution of Linux can be expected to work well out of the box with any desktop computer. This is not so for notebooks. In 2005, when I decided that I needed a notebook, I scoured the internet looking for discussions of which notebook is the best for Linux. The Thinkpad is not the cheapest, nor is it the most powerful of notebooks on the market. Mostly due to this wiki, I concluded that it is the best choice because it is the best understood from a Linux perspective. I much prefer to have a computer that works well than something on the bleeding edge of technology.

===Why Ubuntu===

As I previously stated, one can now expect a given Linux distribution to work more or less out of the box on a desktop system -- not so with notebooks. I fiddled around with assorted distributions including Debian, Redhat, Suse, and Slackware. I also tried NetBSD and FreeBSD. I initially resisted the thought of Ubuntu because I didn't like the idea of ultimate control over the machine being taken away from me. By and by, I wiped the drive yet again and decided to give Ubuntu a try. I was pleasantly surprised to find that mostly everything worked well straight from installation.

==The Installation==

===Dealing with Windows===

===Booting Ubuntu===

===Wireless Network===

==The First Reboot==

===Setting up APT and Friends===

===Trackpoint===

Ubuntu should have already installed "xserver-xorg-input-synaptics". If not, please do that.

FIXME
After installation, Ubuntu does have passable support for the Trackpoint touchpad. If you want to modify the defaults, you should install the packages "gsynaptics" and/or "qsynaptics" for GUI interface or "tpconfig" for a command-line interface.

===Thinkpad Buttons===

===Fingerprint Reader===

Never used it.

===Bluetooth===

Never used it.

===Audio===

*Open /etc/defaults/acpi-support and make sure that HIBERNATE_MODE is set to "platform". If this is not done, then audio output will be disabled.

===Proprietary ATI Display Drivers===

==Ready For Use==
This section describes things to be aware of during regular daily use of your Thinkpad T42 notebook.

Category:Ubuntu
Category:T42

Talk:How to setup Bluetooth

2007-01-29T06:58:57Z

Dgriffi: Enhanced Data Rate module on a T42

I just wanted to write down my experiences using Bluetooth to connect my Nokia N70 to my Thinkpad T43, using Gentoo Linux. I'm not sure if ThinkWiki is the right place for this. Feel free to point me into another direction.

Tobias Brox, tobias@nordicbet.com - 2005-12-04

----
Hi,

indeed ThinkWiki is not exactly the right place since the information has not very much to do with ThinkPads in particular. However, since we are missing any Bluetooth documentation at the time, I'm going to give this page a reasonable title and will do some reformatting later on. Please read [[Help:Editing]].

[[User:Wyrfel|Wyrfel]] 20:18, 5 Jan 2006 (CET)
----

Hei,

I renamed the page to reflect the idea of having it as a general Bluetooth setup howto. The first two sections are already generic enough for that. Connecting to a mobile phone should be a section in this page, like it is at current state in the serial connection section. I think that's fine, since you might want to connect to other modem like devices through serial over bluetooth and the procedure should be the same. Hence, lets structure this page in "applications" like "serial over bluetooth", "obex file transfer" etc., very much as it is now. However, things still need to be improved.

[[User:Wyrfel|Wyrfel]] 12:23, 8 Jan 2006 (CET)
----

== BT_RFCOMM note ==

Why does BT_RFCOMM can not be made a module? There is no explanation anywhere in the text for that note...

[[User:Hmh|hmh]] 2006-02-22 01:48 UTC
----
It's an information the original author took from an external HOWTO. Don't know about it but was always wondering myself. If anyone can prove this wrong, please remove the note.

[[User:Wyrfel|Wyrfel]] 13:33, 27 February 2006 (CET)
----
I'm using BT_RFCOMM as a module with my BTA-6030 USB dongle. I expect the same with a one built-in Thinkpads.

cstamas 20:05, 8 Apr 2006 (CET)
----

The recent addition regarding file mounting and fuse, while accurate, was added without regard for the duplicate information in the article (was just "pasted" on top.) It makes the article long and confusing. I'll revise, and am open to comments.
[[User:gsmenden|gsmenden]] 11:43, 24 September 2006 (EST)

== Bluetooth bonding ==

This HOWTO doesn't address the concept of bonding and how to do it using the Bluez stack. Without this, many new users are going to get confused because even elementary BT operations cannot be executed. [[User:Achitnis|Achitnis]] 07:36, 10 December 2006 (CET)

== Enhanced Data Rate module on a T42 ==

Does anyone here know if a [[ThinkPad_Bluetooth_with_Enhanced_Data_Rate_(BDC-2)]] can be used in a T42? The idea is to get Bluetooth 2.0 in the cdc slot. [[User:Dgriffi|Dgriffi]] 07:58, 29 January 2007 (CET)

Category talk:T42

2007-01-28T22:24:42Z

Dgriffi: memory under the keyboard?

Previously I used on a T20: Debian and Ubuntu, former provided suspend->ram, latter ->disk OK, but neither worked well on T42. Also, to use internal wireless-2200 only SUSE would work. Fedora: no good.

Debian and others are OK but no suspend or 2200 support for now.

I never liked SUSE before, but this 9.3 is OK, in any event, I'm stuck with it as I need some suspend.

Standby hasn't worked for with 600e, 240x, t20 or t42 (but I think did with 365).

== Ubuntu works wonderfully ==

I've found that Ubuntu works wonderfully on the T42. I started this machine with Ubuntu Dapper, then moved to Eft. The upgrade had some problems, but that was because of Ubuntu itself. Out of the box, just about everything works: sleep, suspend, sound, brightness control, etc. [[User:Dgriffi|Dgriffi]] 21:03, 19 January 2007 (CET)

== memory under the keyboard? ==

I removed the keyboard on my T42 to see about replacing the modem in the CDC slot with one that includes Bluetooth. Below and to the right of the CDC slot is a SODIMM. I confirmed that I wasn't actually looking at the back of the one accessed through the small plate on the bottom. Can I replace this SODIMM under the keyboard without any danger of the BIOS rejecting it? [[User:Dgriffi|Dgriffi]] 23:24, 28 January 2007 (CET)

Category talk:T42

2007-01-19T20:03:00Z

Dgriffi: Ubuntu works wonderfully

CardBus slot

2006-10-30T21:00:09Z

Dgriffi: typo

{| width="100%"
<div style="margin: 0; margin-right:10px; border: 1px solid #dfdfdf; padding: 0em 1em 1em 1em; background-color:#F8F8FF; align:right;">
The [[CardBus]] slot is a 32bit [[PC Card]] slot, that is backwards compatible with the older 16-bit [[PCMCIA]] standard.

It exists in ThinkPads both as a Type II and Type III implementation. Type III is double the thickness of Type II, and most Type III implementations can accept two Type II cards.

* A Type III slot can accept a Type III, Type II or Type I card
* A Type II slot can accept a Type II or Type I card
</div>
|}
__NOTOC__
* [[Wikipedia:PCMCIA|Wikipedia article on PCMCIA, PC Card, CardBus and ExpressCard]]

=== Linux support ===
Cardbus adapters are handled by the Linux PCI subsystem as hotplug PCI adapters.

PCMCIA adapters where handled by the older Linux PCMCIA package, until the 2.6 kernel where PCMCIA hotplug is now directly supported.

=== Models featuring this Technology ===
'''(1) Type II slot'''
* ThinkPad {{240}}, {{240X}}
* ThinkPad {{R51e}}, {{R52}}
* ThinkPad {{T43}}, {{T43p}}, {{T60}}, {{T60p}}
* ThinkPad {{X Series}}
* ThinkPad {{Z60m}}, {{Z60t}}
* ThinkPad {{TransNote}}

'''(1) Type III slot'''
* ThinkPad {{G40}}
* ThinkPad {{i1200}}, {{i1210}}, {{i1230}}, {{i1250}}, {{i1260}}
* ThinkPad {{i1300}}, {{i1330}}, {{i1370}}
* ThinkPad {{i1420}}, {{i1421}}, {{i1422}}, {{i1441}}, {{i1442}}, {{i1460}}, {{i1480}}, {{i1482}}, {{i1483}}, {{i1492}}
* ThinkPad {{i1540}}, {{i1541}}, {{i1542}}, {{i1560}}, {{i1562}}, {{i1592}}
* ThinkPad {{R30}}, {{R31}}, {{R32}}
* ThinkPad {{R40}}, {{R40e}}
* ThinkPad {{R50}}, {{R50e}}, {{R51}}

'''(2) Type III slots'''
* [[ThinkPad 380/385 Port Replicator]]
* [[ThinkPad Enhanced Port Replicator]]
* [[ThinkPad Port Replicator with Advanced EtherJet]]

'''(2) Type II, or (1) Type III slot'''
* ThinkPad {{310}}, {{310E}}, {{310ED}}
* ThinkPad {{380XD}}, {{380Z}}
* ThinkPad {{385XD}}
* ThinkPad {{390}}, {{390E}}, {{390X}}
* ThinkPad {{560X}}, {{560Z}}
* ThinkPad {{570}}, {{570E}}
* ThinkPad {{600}}, {{600E}}, {{600X}}
* ThinkPad {{760E}}, {{760ED}}, {{760EL}}, {{760ELD}}, {{760XL}}, {{760XD}}
* ThinkPad {{765L}}, {{765D}}
* ThinkPad {{770}}, {{770E}}, {{770ED}}, {{770X}}, {{770Z}}
* ThinkPad {{G41}}
* ThinkPad {{i1410}}, {{i1411}}, {{i1412}}, {{i1450}}, {{i1451}}, {{i1452}}, {{i1472}}
* ThinkPad {{i1512}}, {{i1552}}
* ThinkPad {{i1720}}, {{i1721}}
* ThinkPad {{R50p}}
* ThinkPad {{T20}}, {{T21}}, {{T22}}, {{T23}}, {{T30}}, {{T40}}, {{T40p}}, {{T41}}, {{T41p}}, {{T42}}, {{T42p}}
* [[SelectaBase PC Card Enabler with Advanced EtherJet]]
* [[SelectaBase PC Card Enabler]]
* [[SelectaDock III]]
* [[ThinkPad Dock]]
* [[ThinkPad Dock II]]

[[Category:Components]]