Question about purchasing IBM certified T40

I am thinking of purchasing a certified T40 and was wondering if I needed to purchase any upgrades or anything else. I will use the T40 for internet surfing, will install Microsoft office, and want to use Adobe Photoshop Elements 5 for editing and storing photos. No gaming but will watch DVDs. I hope to use the wireless connection. Do I need more memory? Specs are below. This will replace my ancient desk top and will be my only computer. Any advice or suggestions are most welcome.

Thanks!

IBM Certified Used ThinkPad T40 (72U)

$486.20 * Your price

Availability: In stock

IBM Certified Used ThinkPad T40 (72U)
Limited Warranty until 09/2006— For service please call 1—800—IBM—SERV.
General
Model name T237372U
Description IBM Certified Used ThinkPad T40 (72U)
IBM Web Price* $572.00

Software
Operating System Microsoft Windows XP Professional Edition
Productivity applications Lotus Smart Suite

Processor
Processor internal clock speed 1.50GHz
Processor (CPU) Intel® Pentium® M

Display
Screen type TFT
Viewable image size 14.1"

Memory
Memory Std/Max 512MB/2048MB

Hard Disk
Hard Disk 40GB

Optical device
Optical CD-RW/DVD Combo

Communications
Modem 56K
Network card 10/100 Ethernet
Wireless 802.11b wireless LAN

Expansion options
USB Port Yes
Weight & Dimensions
Weight 4.9 lbs
Height 1.0"
Width 12.2"
Depth 10"
Security Features
Security feature None
Warranty
Warranty 3 months limited

 

The main thing I would consider upgrading is the wireless to 802.11g. There are two ways that can be accomplished; 1) Remove the old mini-PCI card and replace it with a new one or 2) Buy a CardBus wireless-g adapter which will stick out the side of the notebook.

I upgraded my T42 from 512MB to 768MB and it runs XP great. So that might be another possible upgrade.

EDIT: If you don't plan on using wireless much then I guess wireless-g is not as important. But consider it if you plan on using a lot of wireless hotspots or want wireless in the house. Wireless-g routers go for $30-$40 dollars now.

 

Thanks for your advice! Should I buy the 802.11g mini-PCI card and the extra memory from the Lenovo web site or somewhere else?

 

No, if you are in the US, go to newegg.com for some of the best deals. If you do buy a mini-PCI card, be sure you are confident enough to open up your laptop. I believe the mini-PCI slot is below the keyboard.

 

Thanks again. So, it sounds like I could buy it the way it is configured and then buy what else I need from NewEgg. I am quite ignorant of these matters and may be back to ask about how to select additional items. I appreciate your suggestions. I think this laptop is a good deal, no?