vB Easy Archive - HELP!!! RIM modem in laptop

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HELP!!! RIM modem in laptop
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Posted by: jamlinh

Hi
I am in need of some help with a r902m RIM modem That is built in a panasonic laptop (cf-72) I am wondering ,1 ,if it can be used for wireless dial-up broadband ,2,where are the drivers(not on the RIM website) and ,3,where is some software to use the card.. if not what exactly was the card used for in these laptops.
thanks
james

Posted by: jase88

This modem was made for the Mobitex analog data network only. No broadband whatsoever. In fact, throughput is only 9.6kbps--not even close to broadband.

Mobitex does not use TCP/IP. And you can't use these modems for dial up access. Typically, a large enterprise would establish a connection between Mobitex via an x25 to their own customized application.

The modem was likely used for order dispatch applications, or data collection where large amounts of bandwidth were not necessary (utilities, meter reading, service industries, public safety, etc). Mobitex was quite popular prior to the launch of GPRS networks. The first Blackberry devices worked on Mobitex networks.

RIM discontinued production of OEM radio modules several years ago.

Likely you'll need to use a PCMCIA WiFi card.

Posted by: jamlinh

OK Thanks so much.This holding true and the fact that the cf-72 has a built in telescoping antenna is it possible then to use the mini pci for a wireless mini and use the antenna as a gain? this has only one connection. and which cards would you recomend or are compatible with only one button connector?
thanks
james

Posted by: jase88

Mobitex networks operate at 900MHz, and WiFi at 2.4GHz. It's possible to wire up something internally, but likely there would be an SWR (standing wave ratio) mismatch with the antenna; assuming you could find an appropriate connector. This may result in premature radio failure, poor range/useability, interference issues, etc.

You may wish to check with Panasonic Notebook Support (notebooks@ca.panasonic.com, 1-800-668-8386--Canada info only), to see if they offer a workaround.

Your cheapest and easiest solution would likely be to go with a PCMCIA WiFi card, or a USB WiFi dongle (assuming your model runs a minimum of Win98).