Linux on an IBM / Lenovo T61 8895WFJ

Software

I'm using Gentoo Linux, but that does not matter, this document is not distribution specific.

As this device is pretty new, it's advisable to get an up-to-date kernel, I assume you're using 2.6.26, xorg-server 1.5, xf86-video-i810 2.4.2 and xf86-input-synaptics 0.15.2.

Hardware

Works out of the box
Works with extra effort
Works partly
Does not work at all
Not tested

BIOS UpdateBIOS update is available as an ISO-image, burn it on CD and boot it, no problem with Linux.
BIOS Mods/HacksThere's a modified version of the T61 BIOS. Main feature is improved SATA-II if you use modern SSD drives. Use at your own Risk.
CPU CFLAGS Starting with gcc 4.3, gcc knows the option -march=core2 to optimizes code for the Intel Core 2 Duo.
(for older gcc versions, -march=nocona is the best option)
Graphics For proper graphics acceleration, one needs GEM. You'll need at least libdrm 2.4.1, mesa 7.3, xf86-video-intel-2.5.0 and a kernel above 2.6.28.
Screen brightness The Thinkpad video support (CONFIG_THINKPAD_ACPI_VIDEO) in current kernels no longer works. Instead, you'll have to use normal ACPI video support (CONFIG_VIDEO_OUPTUT_CONTROL and CONFIG_VIDEO_ACPI enabled).
CD/DVD drive Not just Linux related, but there's an inofficial firmware update that will remove some restrictions from the drive:
Liggy's and Dee's modified Optiarc AD7910A firmwares
Disclaimer: This may destroy your hardware and I haven't tested this.
Repair Not exactly a Linux issue, but Lenovo provides a Hardware Maintenance Manual.

Links

The following links might be interesting for you:
xtops.de - Windows-free laptops
Tuxmobil - information on linux with laptops
linux-laptop.net - another page on linux with laptops

Hanno Böck
CC0