Adding an Ethernet Port

Question

I have a Inspiron 4000 which only has the port/plug for a telephone plug to dial-up to the Internet.  I really should have purchased this laptop with an Ethernet port so that when i am traveling or in a hotel I can just plug the Ethernet connection in and use the Internet.   What are my options?  Can I add a new Ethernet port in?  There is a space for it next to the dial up plug.  If so, how much does it cost and where do I do that?  Is it worth it?  This is only a 20GB HD laptop with pentium 3 should I just upgrade to resolve this problem?    Please help.  Thanks!

funtoupgrade · Answer

You need to scrap your mini-pci modem card and replace it with combo mini-pci modem/network card.  They are $15-$25 and readily available on eBay or from other parts resellers.  You will pay top dollar if you try to buy directly from Dell. Get either an Actiontec MP100IM or 3Com 3CN3AC.   funtoupgrade

rickmktg · Answer

@abcd123md wrote:

FUN: Do you mean that I have to literally take apart the laptop, remove the current modem and then add in the new one you suggest I purchase? If so, is there somewhere on the web,elsewhere that has instructions on how to do that? Thanks.

You have to undo one screw... Click on the Product Support tab, then User Guides. Follow links to add/remove parts. Quite easy to do.

rickmktg · Answer

@funtoupgrade wrote:
You need to scrap your mini-pci modem card and replace it with combo mini-pci modem/network card. They are $15-$25 and readily available on eBay or from other parts resellers. You will pay top dollar if you try to buy directly from Dell. Get either an Actiontec MP100IM or 3Com 3CN3AC.

funtoupgrade

Good advice except do NOT get the ActionTec, only the 3Com. ActionTec products were problematic on these machines. I got an 8100 new with ActionTec and for 30 days had issues. Dell, when forced, gave me a new 3Com card and it worked flawlessly.

abcd123md · Answer

Thank you will do, and I will go with the 3Com.  Wish me luck!

abcd123md · Answer

FUN: Do you mean that I have to literally take apart the laptop, remove the current modem and then add in the new one you suggest I purchase?  If so, is there somewhere on the web,elsewhere that has instructions on how to do that?  Thanks.

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Adding an Ethernet Port

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