CF-28 + 3G modem (identify connector)

So, i was thinking, (I know its dangerous, but still.) and i have this old ZTE 3g modem laying around. CF-28 and a 3g modem. Hmm, good idea? Yeah, but just like you all know with wifi. I get no signal whatsoever, i need an antenna. Here's where i ran into problems.

What the bloody hell is this connector called? I know you can connect an antenna to it because according to the specs, there is an external antenna connector on it. Which i'm guessing is the little bugger on the right. But what the hell is it called?

 

Are you certain this model has a WiFi module built-in? Almost ALL modern Wireless Broadband adapters have a Connection Manager Utility which will switch between your existing WiFi device and the Wireless Broadband adapter. I don't believe I EVER ran across one of these in the wild that had a WiFi adapter built into it.

That connector appears to be the standard external antenna connection that almost all USB Wireless Broadband dongles have; usually they cover it with a rubber plug or flap. If so, those antennas are all over eBay, in vehicle, tabletop, or magnetic mount versions.

Also remember that your CF-28 USB is only 1.1; this means that your Connection Manager may take FOREVER to complete some tasks, it may even freeze up on you.

mnem

 

I have. This one however isnt one of them. I have an atheros m-pci card for wifi. I'm installing this one for 3G wireless internet only. The only reason i mentioned Wifi was because you need an external antenna for that also.

Right, I'm gonna hook it up to my internal USB 2.0 mod. So that's covered. As for the antenna, are you sure? Cause those external antennas look awfully different from the connector itself. Any chance you know the name of it? cause i have a cable that's supposed to be 3g antenna to R-SMA and that one doesn't work at all.

 

I think it's called a CRC9 connector; see here:

3G GSM/UMTS antenna for broadband router E960 E968 E970 | eBay

As for using that in the PCMCIA USB adapter; be mindful that you may have issues with power. The PCMCIA slot can only provide 335ma at 3.3V for the whole card; this means the USB card has a DC-DC converter in it to get the 5V needed for USB devices. If you're LUCKY, it's good for 100ma TOTAL between the two ports. I don't believe that's enough for your dongle there.

You CAN plug the pigtail that comes with the USB Card into your existing USB port to get extra capacity; but that sure would be an ungainly MESS. If you're borderline overdrawing, it will TRY to provide the needed current; I think that's how I toasted 2 of my cards.

mnem
6 degrees of Kevin SOMETHING...

 

Blimey! I just short circuited one of my PCMCIA ports. Thankfully one of the external ones... Word of advice, Apple's airport cards aren't compatible with Toughbooks. And if you have an unlabeled card, be damn sure that its what you think it is before you stick in it...

Right... Damn, I should've realized the output was different. Damn rookie mistake. Ta for the help, mate.

 

Seems like you are going to a lot of trouble for what is an easier solution. plug a mini blutooth dongle into the usb port on the back and tether it to a smart phone.