8500 mini-pci

Question

I currently have no internal wireless card installed, I would like to install one but I am not sure... a. if it will void my warranty? b. which one to get, what is compatible? c. I saw in the manual it says users can not install 5ghz cards, why is that and how do I know the difference? d. Will I be able to still use my 56k modem and 10/100 plugs in the back with the internal card installed? e. Where is the cheapest place to get one of these cards? I would like to be able to use b/g networks, with 64/128 WEP, what is this 'a' network? Would it be better for me to get an a/b/g card? I saw posts with users complaining about the quality and install of these cards, is it better to just use my pcmcia card?

bacillus · Answer

You can easily install an internal wireless card on that 8500. It would suggest you get the Dell True Mobile 1350 b/g mini PCI card. That card supports both wep and WPA encryption.

You will still be able to use your internal modem and onboard LAN port after you have installed the card.

You can buy the card by ringing the Dell parts department.

Stingray2772 · Answer

What about the 1450. Why does it say in the dell manual not to install/remove/replace this card?

Jerry Park · Answer

There is apparently some FCC rule which prohibits end users from installing 802.11a cards. Don't know why. No different than 802.11b/g. I don't think anyone will arrest you if you install one.

bacillus · Answer

hehe, are you sure the FBI isn't monitoring this forum?  :smileyvery-happy:

Jerry Park · Answer

I believe they monitor everything. But then, you can't act on everything. HeHe

Stingray2772 · Answer

I figured thats how it was, but I wasn't sure if there was something you had to change on the laptop for another antenna wire or some kind of jumper for 5ghz, thanks everybody for the help

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