In this video we show how to replace the wireless card on your computer. Before working on your computer, read through and follow the safety guidelines to protect your system from potential damage and ensure your personal safety. For more information about safety guidelines, see the Owner's Manual at: Dell.com/Support.
Before you begin, create a recovery drive and backup all data. After the backup is complete, turn off the computer and disconnect all the attached peripherals. To enter Service Mode press and hold the <B> key on the keyboard, and then press the power button. Now, the computer will boot up and the Owner Tag information will be displayed on the screen. Press any key to proceed, the computer will emit three short beeps and shutdown.
To begin, loosen the two captive screws that secure the base cover to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly. Then, remove the seven screws that secure the base cover to the assembly. Using a plastic scribe, pry the base cover from the top left at the hinge, and then continue to work on the sides to open the base cover. Lift the base cover off the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
If your computer does not go into Service Mode, disconnect the battery cable. and drain the flea power. Locate the wireless card and remove the screw that secures the wireless-card bracket to the system board. Disconnect the antenna cables from the card. Then lift the card at angle and remove it from its slot.
To install the wireless card. Connect the antenna cables to the card. Then align the notch on the card with the tab on the slot and slide it in. Place the wireless-card bracket on the wireless card. Aligning the screw hole on the bracket to the screw mount on the system board. Then replace the screw that secures the bracket to the system board. Align and snap the base cover into place.
Tighten the two captive screws and replace the seven screws that secure the base cover to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly. Connect the power adapter and press the power button to turn on the computer and exit from Service Mode. Note: The computer will only turn on if the power adapter is connected. For more information or support about your computer, visit: Dell.com/Support.
