r/toughbook

How do I get w7 to install on FZ-M1 MK1 in UEFI?

I have two of them, one on which I installed w7 in bios mode and the other that came factory imaged with w7 but UEFI (either factory, or from the ebay seller)

Both are the same build, same driver package from Panasonic
They are both FZ-M1 MK1's, same processors, ram, aptio bios numbers, etc

Unit one came with factory W7 GPT UEFI
Boot mode compatible
UEFI Enabled
CSM Enabled

The other unit is W7 MBR
Boot mode compatible
UEFI DISabled
CSM Enabled

Everything works in both units
I can swap the m.2 drives and turn off/on UEFI where applicable, and either unit boots and runs either drive with no issues

Why can't I fresh install w7 UEFI? I used archive org to get usb dvd media tool and used the same 7601.24214.180801.1700.sp1 build as is installed on both units already

Do I need to use a different usb tool to make the install drive?
or do I just need to install windows as MBR and then convert to GPT?

I've had a 29 and a 30 a number of years ago. I know they're a totally different form factor and were more modular, etc.

I love tinkering and found what appears to be an MK-1 with a CF-VEK33 for $72 at auction.

I know it will need an SSD and I assume batteries.

My plan is to confirm the model in BIOS and order just a cheap SSD from Amazon. I have an adjustable voltage USB-C trigger cable to power it with for now. Are the aftermarket batteries ok? The unit is surplus from a law enforcement agency so I hope it has onboard WWAN.

I'm gonna make sure and use drivers from Panasonic - can I even download the windows 11 from them, or do I need to start with a clean Microsoft install and then do all the drivers manually, one-by-one?

What else should I check for and do?