Member Avatar for zproteus19

i have an IBM Thinkpad T40 with an internal Intel NIC and a Linksys 802.11b router. I will have a connection for a few minutes and then it will be lost. Other people have had this same problem, but i didnt see a conclusive method for resolving the problem. Thanks.

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A few targeted tests will quickly tell whether this is the ThinkPad or the Linksys box, and will often fix transient drops without needing a service call. already noted the basic symptoms; was right to ask if you’re using the wireless radio or the wired LAN, and ’s suggestion to check support channels is reasonable once you’ve isolated the fault. Try the steps below in order and note exactly when the drop happens.

  • Isolate the problem: attach the laptop to the router with an Ethernet cable. If the drop disappears, the issue is wireless-specific. If other wireless clients stay connected while yours drops, it’s most likely the laptop/driver.
  • Update and switch software: install the latest Intel wireless driver/utility for the adapter (use Intel’s driver, not just IBM’s generic pack). If you run the vendor utility (Intel) plus Windows Zero Configuration, pick one — having both active can cause problems.
  • Power and adapter settings: in Device Manager open the wireless adapter’s properties and disable any power-saving options (including “Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power”). In the adapter’s advanced settings, reduce power-saving or roaming features.
  • Router checks: update Linksys firmware, fix the wireless channel to 1/6/11 (avoid Auto), and temporarily disable encryption to test whether authentication/rekeying is causing the disconnects. Back up the config before resets.
  • Diagnostic captures: run a continuous ping to the router and watch Event Viewer/System logs for DHCP or WLAN messages when the drop occurs. Try a static IP to rule out DHCP lease or server issues.
  • Interference and hardware: remove nearby 2.4 GHz interferers (microwaves, cordless phones, Bluetooth) and test with another AP or an inexpensive USB adapter. If the laptop still drops after all tests, gather logs and then contact IBM/Linksys with the captured data.

Run these in order and record which change stops the drop — that result points to the root cause and avoids unnecessary hardware swaps.

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Member Avatar for MAD_DOG

Call up IBM seriously let them know what is happening. Have you looked on IBM web site for lets say Internal Ethernet Card drivers? The lastest ones have you also called them to report this problem. They might say ship it in we will replace it. If you feel like there going to do that say other things are wrong with it hahaha just kidding man but seriously look on there web site and call them ASAP.

Member Avatar for PlatinumRik

Just woundering why you said you had a 802.11b router when it didn't matter? do you even have ethernet ports on your router?? are you using the wireless to connect?? or the internal ethernet port?

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