← notes / 2026.07.06
build log: thinkpad x220
no github repo yet, this one lives in photos and a parts list for now.
the project is to take my x220, flash libreboot onto it, and rebuild the hardware while i’m in there. so far i’ve been familiarizing myself with kali linux (the machine’s current daily os) and getting comfortable living in a terminal. next step is ordering parts.
the microcenter run
went to microcenter and picked up the start of the flashing rig.
- raspberry pi zero 2 w
- microsd card
- jumper cables
i still need to order a pomona 8-pin clip, a ram stick, a new display, the usb-c charging port upgrade, and a few other odds and ends before the build actually starts.
current phase
get the libreboot rom onto the raspberry pi. i opted for running the pi over ssh instead of a debian system or some other linux distro alternative, mostly because it was easier and honestly i wanted a raspberry pi anyway.
once the physical parts arrive i can disassemble it, clip onto the flash chip, and begin flashing.
the honest part
a bit worried about this one because i don’t want it to go wrong. external flashing is the kind of process where one loose jumper turns a laptop into a paperweight. going slow, reading everything twice, flashing once.