How to Replace the Wireless Adapter in an HP Business Laptop

Sometimes, after troubleshooting every part of your wireless network, you find that the network adapter in the laptop itself is to blame. Here’s how you can replace it yourself in an HP laptop.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Laptop with a RAM bay underneath the keyboard
• T-8 screwdriver (star shaped)
• Small Phillips head screwdriver
• Something small, pointy and nonconductive, such as a toothpick or plastic pick
• Correct system board for your laptop
• ESD wrist strap

1. Make sure the laptop is turned off. Then unplug it from the wall, and take out the battery for safety precautions.
2. Remove the keyboard screws on the bottom of the laptop.
3. Remove the keyboard from the laptop, but you don’t need to fully detach the ribbon connector from the system board.
4. You should see the wireless network adapter connected to the system board from here. You’ll notice that it’s the detachable device that has two cords hooked into it that both work their way up into the screen. Detach those two cords.
5. Replace the wireless network adapter.
6. Reconnect those two antenna cables.
7. Replace the keyboard.
8. Reattach the screws at the bottom of the laptop.
9. Turn the laptop back on after replacing the battery and attempt to use your wireless network adapter. If all has gone well, Windows should pick it up and you shouldn’t have trouble connecting to your wireless network.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure you are wearing an ESD anti-static strap, or are in an anti-static environment, before working on the inner parts of any electronic device.
• You may have to remove plastic pieces that obscure your view to the wireless adapter. Make sure you take care when removing them not to warp or break the plastic.
• Wireless networks are finicky by nature. Make sure that you have tested the router and all other options before replacing hardware in your laptop.
• It’s very difficult to work on laptops, and any damage done internally may void your warranty. Work on laptops with discretion, and if you have any reservations, consult a professional.

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