[ravic]

Edit: I just recieved the bluetooth module and cable from hellowifi. It fits and works awesome in dell mini 9. It goes in the same spot as the dell version of the bluetooth module.
I let windows 7 install the driver on its own.

You should also install the dell "wireless select switch software" to control the on/off state of the bluetooth module. I had to make sure it is on before the system detected and installed the driver. Works well with my touch diamond for data tethering. Currently posting while connected to net via my touch diamond.

Looks like they are now available on ebay here
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?Vi ... 0407346330

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Looking through some of the posts here, it seems like there are availability and ordering issues with the dell bluetooth internal module. Dell does not really want to sell it us but are doing so in some cases on an exception basis.

i looked at the picture some one posted and it appears dell is using the standard broadcom bluetooth module that is used in every single laptop now a days (They seem to have deviated from the 3xx series of bt modules they used to use in the past).

This module is readily available on ebay for prices ranging from $10 to $15.

When it comes to the cable, dell is using a proprietary cable with only 4 pins being used. I know that 4-pins are USB pins (will post the broadcom module pinout shortly).

I contacted one of the ebay sellers (hellowifi) about a custom cable that would work with dell mini and he responded back saying that they already have a sample and he would need more information on how many buyers are interested. If you are interested in getting the bluetooth from an alternated source please post here.

It does involve some legwork from some of us, but eliminates the need to jump through hoops to get a BT module from dell.

Thanks
Ravi

[gospeed.racer]

the connector is a Molex Panelmate 8 pin, and the pinout is easily found as well. The module is not the typical module however, it is very VERY small. I was surprised my this as well. I am sure hellowifi will have a solution, as they were there for the other netbooks.

I dont know why so many are reporting problems with getting the wifi (except when they are out of stock). mostly it is a matter of talking to the right department.

[ravic]

Sorry, i meant standard broadcom bluetooth module not wifi. I actually have one in hand right now. You are correct it is tiny compared to a standard mini pci-e wifi module.

Also, you seem to know a lot about these connectors.

I already have a cable for an HP, can i somehow purchase this mini9 compatible panelmate connector from digikey and replace the connector on the hp cable.

Not sure about panelmate connectors, but some of the other ones allow us to release the pins from the connector. So i was thinking of swapping the pins from hp connector to the dell compatible connector with the right pin order.

[ravic]

Good news, hellowifi has responded back saying that he has a dell mini compatible cable and a module. He will be shippin mine soon but wants to wait until it is tested before mass shipments.

[rick]

I am interested!

[marcmagus]

I'm quite interested in something like this.

After deciding not to get BT included in my Mini from Dell, I've found reasons to wish I had it; I've been contemplating ordering from Dell, but if there were an alternative, I'd want to look at both.

[appleguru]

I'm interested too, especially if its compatible with os x out of the box (should be) and is reasonably priced!

[udimet720]

Hey, great work finding this.

Keep us updated on the results with the BT module.

[ravic]

Will post the detailed pictures once i recieve the module.

Here is the image that he sent me.

[attachment=0:jsshomvk]DSCF2694.jpg[/attachment:jsshomvk]

I believe you can also purchase the cable if you already have a module.

Ravic

[tricknasty]

oo i would take one !