CF-73 a few questions

Hello,

This is my first post so don't hit me...

I bought from ebay a CF-73 I will receive it in a few days. I read on the internet what I could find about ToughBooks and CF-73. Information about this model is thin. My model is with 1.733GHz 1GB RAM no touchscreen.

My questions:
1) What is the maximum supported RAM for this model?
2) What model of GSM Modem I need for it? I'm in Europe I need GSM/GPRS/EDGE/HSDPA version. Can I take the modem from another model of ToughBook?
3) It doesn't have bluetooth so what module do I need for this? Can I take from other model of ToughBook?
4) I looked in the manual for GPS but I didn't found anything. Can I have GPS inside/embedded for CF-73?
5) If someone can help me with the service manual for CF-73. I don't want to mess something when I will modd it.

Thanks to everyone!

 

(1) You can add 1 GB 200 pin SODIMM ddr-1 pc-2700 to your on-board 256 mb for a total of 1.25GB to your cf-73 mk-3 ( The touchscreen models have 512mb onboard
(2) I have not had any cf-73’s with wwan modems ,they are quite rare
(3) I have never seen a Bluetooth cf-73, I don’t believe it was an option, so that would have to be modded
(4) Gps was not an option on the business class Toughbooks, you would be the first around here to Mod a Gps if you could find the room inside
(5) I sent you the link



Alex

 

Thank You!

Another strange issue. On that description of the laptop I saw this model no. CF-73U3STXBG but I can't find it on www.config.toughbook.com. Maybe it is a mistake. I will see exactly when I will receive it.

I think this model is a little bit newer because I don't understand how can I have now 1GB RAM?? If there are 256MB on-board it means that I have a 768MB SODIMM in slot which it can't be. Maybe it has 512MB on-board and 512 on SODIMM slot. The service manual is old, for 1.4GHz model...

 

Check your BIOS settings for the correct model number, if the one on the bottom of the laptop is not legible. That does not look like a good model number.

 

I didn't receive the laptop yet maybe today or tomorrow.

I need a newer manual for CF-73 which includes 1.73GHz Pentium Mobile and WWAN module, SD Card. I found an SD Card Reader from a W2 but I don't know if it works on mine. Also I read the forum for rubber keyboard but I didn't found any info if I can put a rubber keyboard on my CF-73 if it's working or not.

 

No newer manual available on the internet
Its common on the manuals not to have the extra options listed
I know because its quite a hunt to find part numbers for wwan /bluetooth/stock gps part numbers etc on any of the manuals that I have seen

When you get your cf-73 you can look at the spot under the handle where the card reader is located
I have three cf-73s and only one has the reader option

The 2 wire rubber keyboard that came originaly on the cf-27s and some cf-28s might work
The cable length would be the only possible issue
If I have time I will see if the lenght of the cable is ok
I know I have a couple backlite keyboards around and I think I have a couple parts cf-73s as well to try them on

Alex

 

Only option for Bluetooth is in the PCMIA slot - no extra goodies inside - just a Mini PCI for a wireless card (internal) - GPS would be cheapest to just use a BT receiver if you add BT PCMIA -

Thats all I got - I don't play with the 73 much but they are very nice and Ubuntu friendly -

 

Hi again,

I received the laptop today. I checked the model number in BIOS and it is the same like on the back of the laptop. [CF-73U3STXBG]. I think the G is from Germany because it also has German keyboard. I have to change it with english soon. I has a 60GB drive, 1GB RAM [512MB on-board] and wifi 2915abg. Can someone tell me how can I find info about the laptop?? and also when I am downloading drivers I saw different models on site CF-73J, CF-73E, CF-73S/T/U, mk1, mk3..... I don't know what to choose.

Thanks in advance!

 

The drivers labeled CF-73S/T/U are the correct ones for your machine. I don't know about the MK designations, someone will.
CAP

 

The 1700mhz processer is the Mk-3

Alex

 

Thanks guys for all information.

I want to add that the memory inside is DDR2 PC4200 533MHz. It can take 1GB double side in the slot.

Also...Does anyone tried to change the keyboard with a rubber one? Can you tell me what type to buy? Can I order one for CF-28,29,18,19 ??!! I searched on ebay and there is no rubber keyboard for this model.

Thanks to all!

 

I have not had time to check, but the oldest style 2 connecter backlite keyboard might work
That was originaly installed on cf-27's
Cable length might be an issue
The newer style 3 connecter will not work as you would have to find a source of power for the third connecter, and then it would be at full brightness only

Alex