Laptop designs follow defacto standards. So there should be some commonality
as to how things get connected. This is to allow laptop ODMs to quickly
switch from one source of supply to another (like if they run out of
Bluetooth modules).
Many Bluetooth devices connect via USB. The cable from the Bluetooth
assembly could be USB. That would involve a connector with four
pins (+5V, GND, Data+, Data-). There might also be a wire for
shield ground.
As long as you can find an assembly which fits the space provided
for it, and it has the USB interface, you should be able to fit it.
The connector is probably designed for easy insertion or removal
without soldering.
One thing you have to consider, is how the Bluetooth signal gets out
of the laptop. For things like Wifi, the Wifi module has a couple
antenna leads.
Bluetooth may use an integrated antenna, like a dipole right on the
PCB, made out of copper track. But whether that will give good
coverage or not, would be determined by what objects are in the
way.
So before spending money on any Bluetooth part, make sure you
understand how the antenna scheme works.
It is possible some Wifi modules, include Bluetooth in them.
So removing your existing Wifi module, and installing a module
with Bluetooth added, would be another option. You still have
to consider the antenna issue, matching both the Wifi antenna
scheme, as well as supporting however the Bluetooth is connected.
Your existing Wifi card looks like this.
http://h20141.www2.hp.com/Hpparts/PicPop.aspx?mscssid=54224CF218A8446....
There is no Bluetooth module listed at the HP Parts Store for
your computer. But that doesn't mean that HP doesn't have a
suitable component. I just don't know how to find it. For
example, the motherboard in your computer, may be common to
several laptops, and one of the other laptops may have a
Bluetooth module in the parts list.
On Ebay, I found a picture of one. Does this match the packaging
concept you can see inside your unit ? This has more wires than
I expected. And it would be silly to route RF signals on wires
like this.
http://i180.photobucket.com/albums/x178/pauldel/CPU/Laptops/HP/ZD8000...
Another example from Ebay. On this one, you can see the antenna
is a "squiggle" on the bottom end of the module. The cable
assembly is removable for some reason, rather than being captive.
http://i.ebayimg.com/01/!BW2jD+gBWk~$(KGrHgoH-CwEjlLl)G!HBKZY8jgcjw~~...
So I would evaluate how much room is provided for that module,
then shop for something to fit. Something with the right
connectors on the end. For whatever module you buy, it should
come with a software CD, with a Bluetooth stack for the product.
Buying a bare module without software, would be more frustration
for you.
Another example here. For some reason, this Acer Aspire 1690
Bluetooth module, has an extremely long cable. Which means the
Bluetooth module must be located somewhere, where it can
shoot out the signal from its built-in antenna.
http://laptopparts.com.au/images/acer bluetooth module.jpg
Another one here.
http://www.justop.com/support/products/acer_bluetooth_module/acer_blu...
The connectors on the cables, all look a bit similar. You may just
need to find a webpage that details what all the pins are for.
I would have expected 4 wires to be enough, but they seem to
have more than that.
Buying an external USB one, takes all the fun out of it.
Good luck,
Paul
