The ThinkPad T430 has a few options for running it with an external display:

  • VGA port, which is pretty much obsolete at this point
  • mini DisplayPort connector on the laptop itself
  • DVI or DisplayPort on a dock

The mini DisplayPort port has annoyed me for as long as I’ve had this machine.

Most places where I’ve had to present something only offer an HDMI cable, which means that I always have to carry a dongle around, and I keep forgetting to bring one everywhere I happen to go.

Until now.

I have a few of these SATA HDD adapters that replace the optical drive on the ThinkPad T430, and I discovered that my mini DisplayPort to HDMI adapter can fit in one without a problem.

It's a snug fit so it doesn't fall out.
It's a snug fit so it doesn't fall out.
You'd never know the adapter was in here.
You'd never know the adapter was in here.

I don’t currently have a need for a second SSD in my T430, so this “mod” makes perfect sense to me.

I bet there is someone out there who is capable of routing an actual HDMI port in place of this adapter. The existence of FHD mods for this laptop suggests that this is possible. If you’re that person and created that mod, let me know.