If the hack is working, I think it ought to work with any d8b desk.
The error you describe is in my experience usually a matter of the cpu-unit not being able to communicate with the desk.
I'd check that the serial cable is attached solidly on both ends. I'd also check my bios settings, and if that doesn't do anything, I'd try reseating the cables between the serial port and the brain board in the desk.
You could also try "ye-olde-BFC-wiggle" for good measure - preferably while whacking the desk with a dead chicken....