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 service manual at: Dell.com/Support.
Before you begin, create a recovery drive and backup all data. After the data backup is completed, turn off the computer and disconnect all attached peripherals. To enter Service Mode, press and hold the <B> key on the keyboard and then press the power button. 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 shut down.
To begin, Loosen the two captive screws that secure the base cover to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly. Then, remove the five screws that secure the base cover to the palm-rest and keyboard 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 wireless card. Then lift the card at angle and remove it from its slot on the system board.
To install the wireless card, connect the antenna cables to the card, then align the notch on the wireless card with a tab on the slot on the system board. Place the wireless-card bracket on the wireless card. Align 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 on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly. Tighten the two captive screws, then replace the five screws that secure the base cover to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
Connect the power adapter and press the power button to power 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.
