In this video, we'll demonstrate how to replace the WLAN card. Before removing the WLAN card, read through the safety guidelines to protect your computer 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, disconnect all attached peripherals and enter service mode.
To enter service mode, shut down the computer and disconnect the AC adapter. Press and hold the "B" key on the keyboard and then press the power button for three seconds until the Dell logo appears on the screen.
Now, the computer will boot up and the owner tag screen is displayed. Press any key to proceed. The computer will emit three short beeps and shut down to enter service mode.
Now, turn the computer over and loosen the eight captive screws that secure the base cover to the palm rest assembly. Using the flat end of a plastic scribe, pry the base cover from the U-shaped indents on the top edge of the base cover and continue to work the sides to release it from the palm rest assembly.
Then, lift and remove the base cover. Now, let's remove the WLAN card. Remove the single screw that secures the WLAN card bracket and WLAN card to the system board.
Then, remove the WLAN card bracket. Gently slide and lift the card away from the WLAN card slot on the system board. Carefully disconnect the antenna cables from the connectors on the WLAN card.
You have successfully removed the WLAN card. Now, let's see how to install it. To begin, connect the antenna cables to its connectors as indicated by the black and white triangles on the WLAN card.
You can now align the notches on the WLAN card with the tabs on the WLAN card slot and insert the card into the connector on the system board.
Now, align the bracket on the card and replace the screw to secure the WLAN card bracket and WLAN card to the system board. Align and place the base cover on the palm rest assembly and snap it into place.
Then, tighten the eight captive screws to secure the base cover to the palm rest assembly. Now, connect the AC adapter and press the power button to turn on the computer and exit service mode.
You have now successfully installed the WLAN card and can now connect all the peripherals and turn on your computer. For more information, see the service manual at Dell.com/Support.
