It just means that your wireless connection management will either need an update to a later Intel version, or you manage your wireless via the Windows native options.

For the Broadcom network card (if you even use it), you don't really need the Broadcom software (only on servers does it really serve a purpose).

So you may need to uninstall the ProSET software and the Broadcom Management software before you install or upgrade to Windows 8(.1).

About 64 bit support. The 1705 originally came with a "Core" processor. This line of processors did not support 64-bit. However, later Dell offered the exact same model with Core2 processors (may have had a newer motherboard (not sure), but still the same model number). These do support 64-bit. With 2GB RAM (and 4GB minus overhead maximum on the 1705), I don't think you'll miss out on anything by installing a 32-bit version of Windows.

Dumb Question Source,

Some adapters will work in the compatibility mode using the older drivers.

I got this off Intel's website...

Intel® Centrino® Wi-Fi Products — Which operating systems are supported with Intel wireless products?

Rick

About 64 bit support. The 1705 originally came with a "Core" processor. This line of processors did not support 64-bit. However, later Dell offered the exact same model with Core2 processors (may have had a newer motherboard (not sure), but still the same model number). These do support 64-bit. With 2GB RAM (and 4GB minus overhead maximum on the 1705), I don't think you'll miss out on anything by installing a 32-bit version of Windows.

The processor can be changed to a T7200, T7400 or T7600 without motherboard replacement for 64 Bit Windows 7/8.1 if the processor installed is incompatible. I have done this on a few Inspiron 6400/9400 and D620/D820 systems.

The system will work fine on 32 Bit regardless. Installation of a 64 Bit OS on this model serves no great advantage as the RAM maxes out at 3.24 GB due to chipset limitations.

Thank you all for kindly responding so far. Please forgive me in advance for my atrocious ignorance, but I must clarify before I wipe out XP with this new installation. 

To clarify:

  -- My Inspiron 9400 (E1705) runs with Core-2 Duo T2300 processors @ 1.66 GHz, running XP SP3.

  -- My wireless adapter is an Intel Pro/Wireless 3945ABG Net Connection.

  -- I am holding a Windows 8 Pro 32-bit installation disk.  I do NOT have Windows 8.1.

  -- I read on Intel's website that 3945ABG is NOT supported by Windows 8.

          http://www.intel.com/support/wireless/wlan/sb/CS-033840.htm

  -- I don't have the means to replace my hardware or motherboard, etc. (if I did, I'd get a newer laptop!)

I've read several guides on replacing XP with Windows 7 or 8.

My worst case scenario:  During install of Windows 8, they'd ask me to deactivate the incompatible Intel ProSET/Wireless (I assume that's related to the 3945ABG) which would cause me to lose my wireless capability.  Result: XP is replaced before the April 8, 2014 deadline (good) but no more Net access via my wireless connection (bad) to download any driver updates, and no way to revert back to XP because that's been wiped out.

One response gave me hope - that Windows 8.1 had native drivers that would let my 3945ABG Network Connector work.  Does Windows 8 have this, too? I've been searching online, but could not get confirmation of this.

Again, my apologies for my ignorance. You've all put me on the right track, and that's wonderful of you. Please help me get all the way there. Please correct my understanding (above), if you would. My thanks.

Hi Philip (nakakuc4),

Sorry for delay in response; been putting out fires elsewhere last 24 hours.

I'm grateful to all the Dell Community experts who took time to respond with their hard-won knowledge ... but I especially wanted to THANK YOU for clarifying.  For all the excellent advice, logic, and deductions out there, NOTHING equals assurance to an overwhelmed user than someone who spells out: 

(1) I've got the exact same 3945ABG wireless card as you,

(2) I've installed the same OS s/w that you're debating about, and

(3) it works, because see, I'm using it now.

You've given me the courage to take the plunge with 8.0 soonest. I'm not done putting out fires, but will get to this well before the April 8 deadline and will post to let you all know what transpires. Again, I'm thankful to this Board, and especially grateful to you, Philip, for your expertise and patience as I sought clarification.