CF-28PR-bios-RAM question

Read through a number of threads and have not found the answer I am looking for.

I've a CF-28PRJGZKM, bios V2.00L13 that came with 256 RAM. Advertised by seller as having 512. He sent a 256 stick, and I've installed it a number of times using the instructions in a downloaded TB manual. It is not getting recognized. Figure it is most likely one of two things: Bad ram, or need to update bios.

Downloaded 28m3b11a, however it says good for CF-28S3/SR/ST only. Is there another bios update for my laptop, or will this work?

Unsure if there are other drivers needing downloading, as it came wiped clean. Did a clean XP Pro sp2 install using COA sticker code on bottom of unit. Touchpad and video drivers updated and installed.

Looking forward to getting this on the trails, plugging in the gps, and be able to be connected while traveling.

Thanks

gb

 

You have a Mark II toughbook (800MHz, indicated by the 3rd character in your model number, P).

As far as I know, this ( http://panasonic.ca/PDP/Software/cf28_mk2_v200l13_r-2002-0150.zip) is the latest BIOS version for the Mark II's, which seems to be the version you've got.

 

I have a mark II as well and will be getting new stick of ram for mine in the mail tomorrow..will post what I find then greg.

 

It seems that Panasonic has discontinued support of this laptop. The only way to get what you need is to scrounge the net or pool knowledge/drivers here...

 

Thanks for all the replies folks. Found a listing for my comp when it was for sale, which says came with 265, but support 512. I am thinking it should be a plug and play install...so bad RAM. Badjeep, yes please let me know how it goes.

gb

 

I see from other posts you bought the CD off e-bay that says all drivers, fixes, manuals. Would this CD have all that I need? If so, sounds like a wise purchase for me too.

Thanks

gb

 

It has just about everything you need.

 

I remember a problem some years back with certain desktop machines- apparently the memory controller wouldn't recognize certain newer ram modules. It seems that 512mb DIMMs needed high-density chips to fit in the limited space on the DIMM. Some 256mb DIMMs came with the old-style low-density chips (covering the entire card, usually on both sides) and some came with new high-density chips (looking comparatively bare).

One of my old desktops has an Intel 815 chipset, and it only uses low-density dimms. I'm not sure if they fixed that with newer 815 revisions.

 

Got the new Kingston 256ram today, and seamless install. Comp store I used could not get the Hitachi HD I had wanted, so now have the same model Seagate that Toughbook used. Of course 2-3 days after I had ordered it Toughbook posted up the Hitachi runs much cooler! Oh well.

Over the next while work towards installing the 80GIG HD loading it up with all the stuff I've been waiting with.

gb

 

Thank you all!

Found some time, and my toughbook is now sporting a new 7200rpm 80gig HDD, and a sony rw/DVD player. The mods and learning slowly advance, and it is not without gratitude and thanks. Next up is a backlit rubber keyboard!

gb

 

which back lit keyboard are you going to go for?????

 

Greg... If you do a lot of typing... You'll learn to HATE that rubber keyboard. BUT... An emissive keyboard may not work... It's a crap shoot. Some work... Some don't...

You should try to find the hard plastic chicklet style...

 

watch that connector on the keyboard!

 

Sure, now ya'll tell me

It will likely be a while before I get to doing it, but it is the rubber back lit I ordered from one of the common retailers on e-bay. The current keyboard feels great to use. One way to find out I guess, and that's to use it. No key feel?

I am simply amazed at how quiet both the new HDD and DVD player is. I have no temp measuring device, however this HDD seems quite cooler then the stock one.

I've searched and read a few comments about that connector. Hopefully I can get though it unscathed.

gb

 

Greg... After I broke mine by not paying attention I was VERY hesitant about playing around with keyboards anymore! However... When you are taking the keyboard out... (On the lower connector... The rest are easy!) Just rock the ribbon cable back and forth when pulling... When inserting the lower one just make sure you use pressure on both places when pushing down on the ribbon clamp! I've swapped a ton of keyboards in the past few months and have not had another problem. As a matter of fact, last night I just swapped in the entire keyboard lighting system into a CF-28. (By swapping PC Board below 4-screw cover on bottom, the light sensor and also 3 different connector wire sets.) I now have the PERFECT CF-28... It sat in someone's closet for over 2 years... It looks like the day it left the factory! Seriously! I added wifi and put in an illuminated keyboard. I also added a 100GB 7200 rpm drive and am loading WinXP on it now. It's a sweet, sweet machine!

 

I wish I could find a cheap backlit keyboard for my 600 that I'm gonna sell, but they all go for a fortune.

After all of what I hear about the rubber keyboards, I don't think I could use one. I'm a fast typer, and I like key feel... I'd probably break something in fast order.

 

And I have been considering getting the Rubberized Keyboard... Am not sure which one I have now.. but it sure doesn't look dust-proof to me... I love the feel of it... but kinda want one that is more resistant to crud getting under the keys..... It is backlit tho.... which is awesome!

 

I sold a mint WIFI 600MHZ CF-28 on Ebay for $200 three days ago and in my haste of Packaging and shipping I included an extra backlit rubber keyboard by accident. I just realized this today! I forgot that they were worth $50. Oh well..., I'm just making room for a CF-52 that I want to buy.