~Toughbooktalk~

1. I know nothing about gigabit LAN. Actually I know a tiny bit because this post brought it up and I read a few things.

2. Would this help? https://www.amazon.com/StarTech-com-Gig ... B00D8XTOD0

3.See #1.

Matt,
If you mean the 2nd LAN option, that is listed as a Panasonic installed option only.

From what I can find, the optional port goes in the rear next to the serial port. I imagine that there is a PCB that needs to be installed and probably a different "main" flat flexible cable that goes above the DVD.

To retrofit the 2nd LAN, we will need the service manual for a CF 53 that came with the 2nd LAN port. We need that in order to get the proper part numbers. Panasonic does not sell this as a kit. Hopefully both models use the same motherboard. I could determine that once we have the proper service manual.

Jeffs usb converter would work as an external solution.

My other idea is find a Mini PCIE ethernet LAN card to replace the WWAN card. Only problem is the Mini PCIE MUST use USB not the PCIE. This is because the mini PCIE//WWAN ports on a Toughbook are usb only and not true mini PCIE.

june 30th 2016 : So heres what my tech friend found on the 2nd LAN, Its a new item, Heartland dosent even have it yet, its info is not even in the system yet so they dont have pricing and availablity yet, its only on the newest MK4 literature at this point HOWEVER it should be compatable with ALL marks, I assume its rather simple and will use the empty slot next to the serial port/SIM card. Panasonic has drivers for it available for all for MKs of 53 fyi

As a guess, you will use or lose the USB3 port.....................after much reading on gigabit.....IOW the connections must be behind the existing gigabit connector.

Good luck,

J

https://www.amazon.de/Delock-PCMCIA-Car ... lan+pcmcia

pcmcia gigabit lan with RTL8169 chip - works with Windows, Linux, OpenBSD