IBM Client Security Software

[Kristi2k]

Just received a ThinkPad A31 at work and enabled the embedded security chip. Instructions say to download the ibm client security software and install it. During installation an error message comes up "Atmel LPC Bus Driver version 0.2 or later must be installed prior to this software installation" so far IBM has not been able to resolve this issue. Any thoughts or solutions would be greatly appreciated.

I have not dealt with one of these before.

 

[Kristi2k]

TTT

 

[Kristi2k]

Bump

 

[Kristi2k]

anyone?

 

[WackyDan]

Yeah me...

You need to log back into IBM's site for the CSS (client security software), and download not only the most current CSS but also the Atmel driver (It's the name of the Company that Fabs the chip) and the SMBus driver.

You first must ensure that the chip is enabled in the bios. You may also choose to wipe it at this time in case it was a hand-me-down. NEVER WIPE IT AFTER YOU HAVE EVERYTHING WORKING FOR YOU>....

Then you install the SMBus driver.

Then you install the Atmel driver.

Then you install the IBM CSS.

Once CSS is installed, and config'ed you need to move the admin and personal keys off to a USB mem key or CDR and keep them in safe place --BUT KEEP THE ADMIN PRIVATE KEY handy ala mem key for future use. The key archice is exactly that and should not be stored on the drive where it is vulnerable to theft. The chip actually stores the keys for use on it's EPROM layer where they are safe from hack.

I will also suggest that you download the IBM (CSS) Password Manager add on if you are interested in single login ability.

You can download the on the fly file and folder encryption add on if you want, but I wouldn't mess with it until you firmly understand the solution/tech.

Reading the "manual" really does apply here.

I've been running the chip and CSS for quite some time now on a T23, A31, T40, and now a T41. I have it coupled with a Targus fingerprint reader for my single logon ability for all my initial system logon, web sites, apps, etc.

 

[THELAIR]

hey wackydan, your in on the info wtih IBM, when is the next X series of ibm thinkpads coming out?

I want an x32 with more video ram, usb 2.0, built in wifi/bluetooth and a hard drive larger than 20 gigs

 

[WackyDan]

There is no X32.... They have done a whole new chassis called the X40. It's already selling in Japan. If they had maintained the same chassis, it would have been called the X32.

I believe the new X40 does not use discreet graphics.... In other words, it uses the Intel integrated. That is a departure from the x31 model. Probably came down to customer fit/use.... You don't find many users in an ultra portable that need even mid-range 3D graphics.

It is lighter though. They have gotten rid of the CF slot and replaced it with an SD slot.

So... least your USB 2.0, bluetooth (select models) and larger drive will be in the X40.

 

[WackyDan]

Oh.... You'll probaby see an announce on the x40 in February, but probably no later than March.

 

[WackyDan]

Bump for THELAIR

 

[THELAIR]

thanks for the heads up... maybe the X40 will be my next laptop