Add WWAN to CF-29 w/internal GPS

First of all, I apologize if this question has already been asked. If it has, could someone post a link? (I couldn't find a post with this question)

I have a CF29L3LGWBM with internal GPS, factory antenna on the lid, and factory wireless button on the front. The toughbook configurator says it is "wireless ready." I removed the sled, and I see a spot for the WWAN card. My question is this: can I add a WWAN card, and if so, how does it plug into the sled? I would like to add a Verizon card if possible.

Thanks-

 

It depends on the setup of the sled. If it is a GPS only sled then it has the larger GPS engine... A much better GPS engine. The ones I have seen (And I just sold one) that have the modem AND the GPS need to have a smaller GPS engine installed as the modem is too large for it to fit with the current GPS engine. The smaller GPS engine (I think) is the same GPS engine that was used in the CF-28. If THAT is the GPS engine you have then just make sure that you have a good compass in your pocket or be sure to leave a trail of breadcrumbs.

 

TB-

I don't have any breadcrumbs in my truck, so I guess I will have to use "crimp-on fork terminals", or the pieces from a non-toughbook that couldn't cut the mustard on the job!

I am not sure which GPS engine it has. It does not have a modem installed in the sled. FWIW- The sled does have provisions for a SIM card slot where the modem would sit. I read somewhere that "wireless ready" only means that it has the antenna and switch (no cabling on sled?) I guess I could measure the spacing available to see if a card would fit. Is it worth the $$$ and trouble to find the parts necessary to install a WWAN card?

Since posting this, I found a post on here that said that there are cables, standoffs, etc. that need to be installed. If I post a picture, could you tell from the pic which gps engine it is, or is there another way to tell? The GPS seems to work pretty well. The only difference I notice is when I am in the front seat of my service truck. The WinFast Navigator software always seems to have a good fix. When I use Delorme Street Atlas, the signal comes and goes, and I usually have to switch back to WinFast Navigator to re-aquire a fix, and then go back to Delorme. Any thoughts on this?

Anyways, I digress... If a WWAN modem will fit, is it worth it to retrofit, or is it better to find a WWAN sled? Would a WWAN modem work with this type of sled?

My company is getting me Verizon WWAN, and I want to get the TB fitted with a modem, instead of a USB dongle hanging out of the back, just begging to be snapped off. Besides, the "cool factor" is an 11. Also, I read on here that someone makes a WWAN PC card that will fit with the door closed? Does anyone know which make/model this is?

Thanks!

 

If it is truy WWAN Ready... All you should have to do is to slide in the sled.

 

The "W" in the model number (according to the Panasonic config website) means "Wireless Ready - GPS." That is sort of a generic statement. If I slide a modem in the sled, how does it connect to the sled itself? I don't have a WWAN modem yet, so I am not sure how it plugs into the sled. Would this require any additional hardware to mount / connect the modem? I know these questions are probably obvious to those of you with lots of experience in Toughbooks. I have a lot of computer experience, but I want to make sure that what I want to do is cost effective before I buy the wrong parts.

 

There is a PC board that the modem mounts to which in turn screws to the sled... Then you slide it in. I have one Verizon EVDO modem sled left... If you are interested... PM me... You MAY be able to either add the modem to your GPS or vice/versa.... Either way... Some trimming would be required and a light touch.

 

I always thought you had to have the external antenna on the top left of the screen for WWAN. However i have see a couple that do have WWAN but no antenna. I just got a new 29 (or new to me) how can i check to see if it has WWAN.. Or how to see if i can add WWAN? Or... Anyone know where i can pickup a fairly cheap 29 with WWAN for Verizon.....