My T430 Upgrades
Introduction
ThinkPad T430 is an amazing laptop known for it's durability, upgradability and compatibility with Linux. I'll discuss here upgrades which I have done.
USB-C Charging Port
I wanted easier way to charge my laptop, and now I only have to take only one charger for all my devices.
Required componets:
- USB-C PD 20V 5A
- Resistor (with resistance 10KΩ in case of T430)
- 3D print of small case for usb-c pcb (model down bellow)
USB-C PD 20V 5A
Power
Based on this table from wiki, we need to choose resistor with resistance depends on device power rate. In case of T430 we have 65W, so 10kΩ resistor.
| power rating | resistance |
|---|---|
| 65 W | 10 kΩ |
| 90 W | not connected |
| 135 W | 0 Ω |
| 170 W | 1.5 kΩ |
Wiring
Black wires to -
Red wires to +
Blue/Green like wire to ground through 10kΩ resistor.
Now we have to put it in some sort of a case. I 3D printed this, thanks to this guy I didn't had to create my own model, and usb-c pcb fits perfectly inside.
One issue you can encounter is length of a usb-c can intersect with fan... I solved this problem by rubbing the corner of the PCB with a nail file.
Final result looks like this:
Engrave Logo on Lid
It's kinda like stickers, but better, you can engrave anything you want with high detail. There is one con... this mod is permanent, so if you change your mind you are screwed.
Anyway process is simple, but not everyone have access to tools that I used (laser cutter), so if you do then let's start!
- Choose or draw your preferred image
- Convert it to svg, using programs such as Inkscape
- Upload it to your laser and watch it engrave realtime:)
Before trying it on your machine I recommend to test laser on similar surface to adjust it's power properly and not damage laptop!
Results:
Backlit Keyboard
You can also replace keyboard for the one with the backlight!
I've also decided to buy US-JP layout, because for me it looks really cool. I catched this one on ebay:
Slice Battery
In terms of battery life there is no better choice than a slice battery! It improves battery life DRASTICALLY.
I went from around 5-6h to 14-16h (for my usecase: neovim, browser - nothing fancy):
- My regular battery has 44.66Wh (93% of 47.52Wh)
- My slice battery has 80.09Wh (85% of 93.25Wh)
- Combined my laptop has 124.75Wh
Slice Battery:
Regular&Slice Battery Info
Combined:
Thanks for reading, don't be scared to mess with your thinkpad ;)