cf-t7, what it takes for wwan

I have recently bought one of these units from ebay. I wanted it mainly for travel purposes but after realizing how ugly the usb wwan modem looks sticking out of a tiny notebook I want to install an internal module.

From the limited research I conducted on the topic, versions of this model come with wwan built-in which I assume makes bios and drivers a non-issue. I have however failed to locate a service manual for my system so I don't have much of a clue about how to take one apart except for some vague ideas I got from looking at the cf-t5 service manual. Also, the bigger issue seems to be with the lid that is on my model. Looking at the pictures of T7s from professional and user reviews, these devices seem have two different types of lids, something i mistakenly chalked up to the poor photography standards of the usual business notebook reviewers.

What does it take me to install a wwan module for my device. I live in Turkey so most european 3G devices are compatible with the mobile infrastructure of my country. Any help as to direct me towards achieving wwan capabilities with an internal module will be much appreciated.

Thanks.

 

What is the full model # of your T7?

Does it have the "hump" on the lid?

The WWAN modem mounts in the lid, top center.

 

CF-T7BWASZAF and nope I have the other lid...

Is it possible to replace the lid? Other than the lid, are there any other differences between this model and the "hump"ed lid one?

perhaps I should be looking at a flush PCMCIA wwan modem?

Oh, just another question I wanted to ask. What is the dimension/type of the screw that is used on the side of the lid (small one next to the large one holding the hinges)? I seem to have one of those missing and would like to replace it.

 

It probably is possible to swap lids. I think finding the lid would be the biggest problem. I think it should be plug and play but, don't know for sure.

Not sure on the size of the screw.

 

Thanks for the help Glen, I am beginning favor a pcmcia wwan card as it is overall a cheaper and easier solution. Granted it's a compromise, but it's better than worrying about a large, ugly usb dongle sticking out of the tiny computer and it's not difficult to locate. now, just have to find one that plays well with linux.

 

There are some flat patch GSM antennas for sale on eBay, which might be able to be hidden somewhere inside the body or lid. I did something similar when adding wifi to my CF-28, and although the reception wasn't ideal, it worked OK. Combine those with an internal WWAN card and you might be in business.

 

what internal wwan cards do you recommend in order to not have issues with recognition in bios? i would prefer linux support.

 

According to https://www.codeaurora.org/contribute/projects/gobi/, Gobi cards work under linux, so maybe try one of those? What provider are you planning to use (or do you want to stick to a universal WWAN card)?

Once I get my Gobi card ordered and installed, I'll let you know if it works under Linux

 

Gobi200 works fine under linux, the GPS part as well.
you can find a useful info/howto here

 

Thanks for the replies, gear6 and packetcollision... yes I want to stick to a universal card (I think they are called sim-lock free) and through some research I have found that huawei e800 (comes in expresscard form) has linux drivers and can be used with a pcmcia-expresscard adapter while being easily available on ebay or international dropshippin e-tailers of the hong-kong/taiwanese origin.

That said, my first experience with Linux using the T7 wasn't pretty so I'm considering whether I should re-install. Perhaps I am spoiled by Thinkpads where I had total control over fan speed, read many temp sensors and could use middle click scroll with the trackpoint etc.

I have absolutely no control over fanspeed (panasonic has a driver for this on windows called "misc") which causes heat to build at the bottom where the hand strap is and circular scrolling settings are lost every time I reboot, log out or the screen goes blank. Right now, it's easier for me (at home) to remote connect to my virtualized linux machines, from windows.