DIY Internal Bluetooth Module Added

In order to make sure my notebook has every available feature before it becomes completely obsolete, I have been trying to find a way to add an internal Bluetooth module to my Pavilion ZX5078CL. After researching some pictures and specs of parts online at HP, eBay, and FCC, I took the plunge and ordered a $48 Embedded Bluetooth module (HP Part #367871-001, not the part number that should go in my notebook according to my HP service guide). The part came within a few days of my order. However, it did not come with a cable to connect it to my motherboard. So I called HP Parts to obtain a cable. HP shipped another $48 Embedded Bluetooth module (HP Part #367871-001) next day and told me that the cable should have come with the part. The second part came without the cable. So I called HP Parts and they shipped me a cable kit next day. The appropriate cable was included along with many other (potentially) useful cables. I paid nothing for the second module and cable kit -- I found a very helpful person at HP Parts to handle my order.

I installed the module in just a few minutes and installed the latest Bluetooth software posted on HP's support website. The module is recognized by Windows and seems to work with the HP software that I installed. I say "seems" because I have not purchased a Bluetooth device to test with my new Bluetooth-enabled notebook.

One note: the cable kit HP sent included two internal USB cables that fit the Bluetooth module. The short flat cable will fry your Bluetooth module; the long round cable will work like a charm. I think this has to do with the position of the black wire among the eight wires in the cable.

One more note: I need to purchase two 3.0mm long, 2.0mm thread, 4.0mm head screws to secure the Bluetooth module to the mounting posts.

Now if I can only find out how to add infrared transfer to this notebook, I will be completely future proof (yeah, right!).

And sooner or later I will have to replace my AC power plug since it is not securely soldered to my motherboard -- I'm crossing my fingers for a class action lawsuit on this repair, though...

Jeremy

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Very interesting! How hard was it to install?

 

andrew11m,
I removed the strip cover (3 screws), connected the internal USB cable to the motherboard (motherboard connector located near the notebook power button), connected the internal USB cable to the Bluetooth module, forced the excess cable into a small gap, and replaced the strip cover. After booting the notebook, I turned on the WiFi which also turns on the Bluetooth module and installed the HP Bluetooth software (I do not remember which version -- I tried to find the most recent version that worked with Broadcom-based internal Bluetooth modules). When I find the correct screws, I will secure the Bluetooth module to the mounting posts.

I consider this easier than replacing the internal modem, since you do not need to remove the keyboard.

Jeremy

 

I have a HP zv6000 it calls for a 394733-001 bluetooth module.
Is this the same one yours calls for.

I have looked at a HP nc6220, it calls for the module you received.

In the service manuals they look the same but are upside down in the pictures.

The one for the HP nc6220 has a long cable because of its location.

I would guess that the cable for my zv6000 is no longer than 2 inches.

If you have the extra module, would you be willing to sell it.

Larry Lowell

 

For those with Compaq R4000 and other related laptops there is no BT driver/software on the HP support site. However, go to Pavillion laptop drivers, for instance HP Pavilion dv5003ea, and you can download "Support Software for HP Integrated Module with Bluetooth Wireless Technology". This works with Compaq R4000 with a 394733-001 module that was purchased on ebay.