Description
A CF-31 for your ham radio workspace
I prepare laptop kits one at a time for people who want a practical starting point for their station. This listing is for one used Panasonic Toughbook CF-31 Mk3, model CF-31VBAEB1M, with an Intel Core i3 processor, 8GB of RAM and a 256GB Samsung SSD.
Linux Mint 22.3 Cinnamon runs from the internal SSD. There is no separate system USB drive that needs to stay plugged in. This is a Linux kit; Windows dual boot is not included.
This laptop’s configuration
- Laptop: Panasonic Toughbook CF-31 Mk3.
- Exact model: CF-31VBAEB1M.
- CPU: Intel Core i3-3110M at 2.40 GHz, with 2 cores and 4 threads.
- RAM: 8GB.
- System drive: internal Samsung SSD 850 PRO, 256GB, SATA.
- Operating system: Linux Mint 22.3, Cinnamon, 64-bit.
A TEAC DV-W28S-V optical drive is fitted.
What comes with this kit
- This used CF-31 with its internal SSD and Linux setup.
- A compatible charger.
- A stylus.
- First-use guidance to help you get started.
Your radio, antenna, interface and station cables are separate. An audio interface may be built into your radio; the connections you need depend on your equipment.
Getting your station set up
JS8Call is an application for JS8 text messaging. FLDIGI works with several digital modes, while companion tools can help with radio control, forms and file transfer. My JS8Call and FLDIGI guides below explain what these tools do and how the laptop fits into a station.
Tell me which radio and interface you use and what you want to do. Callsign and grid details, audio-device selection, levels, CAT control and PTT need to suit your actual equipment. I’ll help you understand the starting point. The final connections and settings still need to match your station.
CustomVectors prepares kits independently and is not affiliated with or endorsed by AMRRON.
Used laptop and gallery examples
This used Toughbook is in great cosmetic condition and is fully working. This particular unit includes a disc drive, charger and stylus. Battery life is good in normal use; runtime varies with settings and workload.
The gallery shows a previous CF-31 setup, not this laptop. Use it as an example of the kit; the pictured wear, software versions and demonstrations are not current-unit test results or a battery-runtime measurement.
I personally clean, configure and test each laptop before shipment.
Preparation, shipping and help
I’m a one-person business. Once your kit and order are agreed, allow five business days for preparation before shipment. Shipping transit is additional. Laptop kits ship from Melissa, Texas, with free USPS Ground Advantage to all 50 states and Washington, DC, including Alaska and Hawaii. Territories and international destinations are not included.
I don’t offer change-of-mind returns. If your kit arrives damaged or differs from its description, contact me so I can help; applicable consumer rights and eligible PayPal protections still apply.
Have a question about this CF-31 or your station? Email [email protected] or call 262-770-5288. You can also compare my ham radio kits or visit Support.
