Which ThinkPads come with a WWAN card

[karotlopj]

Is there any way to find which (older) ThinkPads come with a WWAN card installed?

[dr_st]

You have to check the machine type-model (use the MTM link at the top of the forums). For CTO (configure-to-order) models, this will not work, but if you have the serial number, you may be able to see all the parts the machine originally shipped with.

Of course, nothing prevents someone from adding/removing such a card down the road, so the only real way to know is to ask the current owner.

[karotlopj]

I've just found that my deceased X220 had a WWAN card - a Sierra Wireless MC8355 - the same as I had installed previously. When I try using it it says my account is not activated. How do I activate it? Is it blocked?

[dr_st]

You need a cellular data package to use WWAN.

[karotlopj]

You need a cellular data package to use WWAN.

I can use either of my SIM cards in my ThinkPad X1 without doing anything special.

Is there anything I can do to find out if the card even sees the SIM?

[dr_st]

So you put the SIM in, but the card doesn't see it?

Some of the cards only work with specific cellular standards, although the list for the MC8355 seems pretty comprehensive:
https://m2msupport.net/m2msupport/produ ... 3g-module/

It could be carrier-locked, I guess. Sorry that I cannot help more, I have never actually used one of these.

[karotlopj]

I've just tried running it under Windows 7, installed the driver and tried to open up Mobile Broadband Connection which shows the Sierra Wireless MC8355 card but when I try to connect it shows Verizon but it is greyed out. When I try to connect it says service not activated. However it can't actually see Verizon as I don't think they exist in the UK.

There must be some way to unlock it.

[rkawakami]

I believe it's the same situation when dealing with a locked cellular phone. In order to unlock the WWAN card from the Verizon network, you would have to contact Verizon and give them the IMEI number (at least). That number should be printed on the card.