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Date: Wed, 12 Jun 2013 07:25:51 -0600 (MDT)
From: Warren Block <wblock@wonkity.com>
To: david coder <dacoder@dcoder.net>
Subject: Re: mini express cards supported by freebsd
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On Fri, 7 Jun 2013, david coder wrote:

> i need a mini express wifi card for a thinkpad laptop.  does anybody know of
> one that is supported by freebsd?  the aironet card i have is too fat.

Thinkpads have a BIOS blacklist that only allows approved cards to be 
used.  The approved cards likely vary significantly depending on the 
Thinkpad model.  The Lenovo web site has information on which cards are 
available for each model.  Some people patch the BIOS to prevent the 
test and allow other cards.

As far as FreeBSD is concerned, I've had the best experience with 
Atheros cards.  There is a list of cards here:
https://wiki.freebsd.org/dev/ath_hal%284%29/HardwareSupport

There are two sizes for mini PCIE cards, and two or three antenna 
connectors, so it's important to match the existing card.