CF-18MK4 Serial port add on ideas...

I am running a CF-18MK4 (Digitizer), with all the options, and want a serial port.

I would like to explore the possibility of a combo WiFi/Bluetooth card, but can not find one in Mini PCI format, everything I come across is Mini PCI Express.

As I have a WWAN modem that I actually use, so I don't have an available Mini PCI Express slot.

I have only found ONE combo WiFi/Bluetooth Mini PCI card, and it is no longer available (even on flea bay)

My hope was to utilize the factory Bluetooth port as an RS-232 port, but it does not look like that is going to happen.

I don't want a USB-Serial converter, as several RS-232 devices I use don't work with those adaptors (tried lots).

PCMCIA serial adaptors require the cover to be open, something I want to avoid.

Any thoughts???

Thanks in advance.

Brian

 

As you probably know this option was not availably on the Digitizer model so you should be looking at a CF-18 touchscreen model or even upgrading to a CF-19 Touchscreen.

~Toughbook Talk~ Toughbook Discussion • View topic - TBT CF-18 GUIDE

http://forum.notebookreview.com/panasonic/746328-cf-19-guide.html

 

But that takes all the fun out of modding.......

I have a CF-18MK1, but REALLY like the digitizer/tablet edition os combination......

Thanks for the advice,

Brian

 

Same with me, the digitizer has less problems with the screen.

 

Read the link to the CF-18 thead posted I have some info on what others have done on the digitizers in that thread. To do a quick summary the serial port was deleted on that model because the interface is used by the digitizer. Another member tried to mod one it, but couldn't get it to work. Also on the CF-18 you can use a CF-19 daughterboard (I was warned not to use the usb on it though) to get Mini PCI Express, but it may still be limited to WWAN use only.

The best option the way the market is right now is to get a used CF-19. The 19 digitizer has a working serial port. The Mk1's are cheap. Even if the unit is missing a few things you can reuse a lot of things from the 18. Battery, charger, digitizer pen, lid, port covers, etc. You can't reuse the caddy though. (this would also give you a pc that can run xp/vista/7 with ease, 1.06 dual core, up to 4 gb of ram and intel 945 chipset)

 

Do you have a link handy for that?

Brian

 

I bought a 19 a year ago and it never did close right and I think it was Teo that said the seller must of used a 18 lid because it was just a little smaller. The 18 AC/DC port cover is a little different but all the rest of the port covers will fit.

 

Any one have a pinout for the modem connector on the motherboard?

Pondering something, and could use a broken modem, if anyone has one taking up space.....