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    how to activate 3G on CF-29 Toughbook

    Discussion in 'Panasonic' started by karservices, Oct 26, 2012.

  1. karservices

    karservices Newbie

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    We bought some refurbished cf-29 toughbooks that have 3G modems built in.

    What is the best way to activate the service?
    Is there a certain provider you have to use?

    I asked the local Verizon store but just got a blank stare from the sales guy.... He didn't have a clue...

    The units have:
    Windows XP Pro
    Novatel Wireless Mobilink software installed.

    Much thanks in advance!!!
     
    karservices, Oct 26, 2012
    #1
  2. db04p71

    db04p71 Notebook Deity

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    Mobilink is for use with AT&T in the USA. You will need a sim card from AT&T.

    What is the full model number of the CF-29?
     
    db04p71, Oct 26, 2012
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  3. karservices

    karservices Newbie

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    Thanks for the info!!!

    CF-29L3LGZBM
     
    karservices, Oct 26, 2012
    #3
  4. db04p71

    db04p71 Notebook Deity

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    Model Number:
    CF-29L3LGZBM
    Status:
    DISCONTINUED
    MSRP:
    $3,526
    Description: Intel Pentium M 778 1.6GHzLV (Centrino),13.3" NON Touch XGA,256MB,60GB, Intel 802.11a+b+g, WIN XP SP2, No Drive

    These did not come from Panasonic with WWAN. You will need to verify what WWAN card is installed. Is there a pull out antenna on the upper left corner of the lid? You will need to remove the sled, above the battery door, to check the card model number.

    The seller may have used an image which already had Mobilink installed whether there is an AT&T card installed or not.
     
    db04p71, Oct 26, 2012
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  5. karservices

    karservices Newbie

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    There is a pull out antenna on the upper left corner of the lid. Above the battery door I removed a small cover which I am assuming where the sled goes. It is an empty slot. Doesn't even look like there are any connectors inside this slot.
     
    karservices, Oct 26, 2012
    #5
  6. db04p71

    db04p71 Notebook Deity

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    That's where it goes. The missing connector is normal on this model, unless it was retrofitted with WWAN or GPS. The connector, if installed, is deep in the recess, about 4 inches in.

    Is there a WWAN card in the PCMCIA card slot? Are there any unknown devices in the device manager? If not, you probably do not have WWAN.
     
    db04p71, Oct 26, 2012
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  7. karservices

    karservices Newbie

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    There is nothing in the PCMCIA slots. No unknown hardware.

    But, inside network connections under dial-up it lists a 3G connection. It says it is an Agere Systems AC'97 Modem.

    Also, when I open up the Mobilink software it says "No Device Detected"
     
    karservices, Oct 26, 2012
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  8. db04p71

    db04p71 Notebook Deity

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    AC'97 modem is the landline modem. 3G connection is probably left over from the image used to load the OS. I think you can just delete the 3G connection.

    It's unlikely that you have WWAN capability.
     
    db04p71, Oct 26, 2012
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  9. karservices

    karservices Newbie

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    Thanks for all your help!
     
    karservices, Oct 26, 2012
    #9