CF 29 keyboard question!

I got recently got a panasonic toughbook CF-29 and I am relatively satisfied with it. One problem, the keyboard doesn't seem to tough, and the pagedown key is broken(as in physical), I was looking around, and saw some CF-28 rubber keyboards, this seems like the way to go.

However I don't see any for the CF 29, are theese compatable, and how hard is the install.

Also if someone can link the service manual it'd be great.

CF29ETKDGKM is the model number

 

The keyboards from 27's, 28's, and 29's are "interchangeable", but I'd stick with one from a 28 or 29 just because the 27 keyboards have shorter cables.

Which keyboard do you have now? Is it backlit or no?

 

I got a picture here

edit its not backlit, and I really don't think I need backlighting

also, it came with an antenna, but no cell modem is showing up in windows, and yes, I enabled it in bios, whats the easiest way to remove it and check it phsyical presence manually. I already removed the two screws on the side above the battery, but it won't come out
edit3: ok I took it out, and its got a cell modem, but I need drivers, can you help.

edit2: what else is interchangle? I presume the port covers too?

The port covers are also showing some signs of decay and I wanna replace 'em. In short, this box just might get dragged though hell and high water, it needs to survive

 

Ok, good news about your keyboard, I've seen those on eBay for $25 a piece brand new (assuming you want to stick with the same type).

If you want to go rubberised (more durable, but harder to type on), you'll be forking out some money.

I'm not sure about a whole lot on the 29's honestly. I've never used one.

Your best bet for the driver is here; http://panasonic.ca/english/customercare/sandd/softwarequery.asp#

Search for CF29 (no dash), and you'll find all the drivers.

I'll let somebody else chime in about the port covers...

 

the port covers on the 29 i believe are specific to that unit only. i have not looked at a 28 but i know for sure the 27 and the 30 flaps will not interchange

if you need some, try contacting heartland as they are the panasonic service center and sell oem parts. the website is www.heartlandsi.com

the flap part numbers are as follows.
dc flap is DFHR6066YA
lan flap is DFHR6103YA
usb flap is DFHR6104YA ( i may have the lan and usb switched)
and the serial flap is DFHR6090ZB

i would not expect to pay any more than 10 a pop and thats MAX.

 

The rubber keyboards from the 27 and 28 will work with the 29...I just installed one tonight. The bezel is a b@#ch to get back on with the rubber KB. The rubber kb backilit option also works on the 29 ...at least the MK1 . Im not sure about newer 29's. Modly is right..the 27 kb cables are short and difficult to work with on a 28 and 29...you have to be super carefull to not rip the cables.

 

could you point me to a walkthrough

edit: and how hard is it to swap the keyboard??

 

The S...manual sent, Let me know if there is a problem.

ohlip

 

If you have not already, check the other 29 keyboard thread up right now...Toughbook gives a detailed description. I wish now that I had taken pics along the way.

Overall removal is not that bad just take it slow and be careful with the kb cables and connectors on the board. Ive found that it is helpfull to use a small electricians screw driver or dental pick when handling those connectors. With the unit sitting in front of you and the kb is tilted out...looking at the connectors...the one closest to you will have two tiny tabs on either side of the ribbon cable..those hinge upward and to the left. The Ribbon cable and connector to wards the rear is different. It will also have two tabs on either side of the ribbon but those slide to the right. I work each side of the connector tabs a little at a time...have not broke on yet...knock on wood!

Again, Check Toughbook's description as well. It is also similar to the cf-28 so check the forum for that beta as well.

Install is the reverse. If you are having a hard time getting the bezel back in place...I used the same fine screw driver to help push the bezel behind the rubber keyboard while keeping pressure against the kb towards the palm rest. Be careful! You dont want to slip and slit your kb rubber. As stated earlier, I think on the other thread, it sounds like there is a bezel for the rubberized kb. At any rate the one you have will also work but again it was a little tricky. I hope some of this helps.