How to Install a Wireless Card in a Dell Inspiron 5100 Laptop

The Dell Inspiron 5100 is a feature-rich laptop that combines robust processing power with considerable multimedia capabilities. In its standard configuration, the Inspiron 5100 comes equipped with a 2.4 GHz Pentium 4 processor, Radeon 9000 graphics card, 256 GB of RAM, 30 GB of hard drive space, CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive and a 14-inch display. You can improve the wireless capabilities of your Dell Inspiron 5100 by adding a wireless PCI Card; installation consists of a simple procedure which you will be able to complete in a matter of minutes.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Dell Inspiron 5100 laptop
• Wireless PCI Card
• Small-tipped Phillips screwdriver
• Installation sofwtare

1. Turn off the laptop. Unplug the power cord from the electrical outlet. Disconnect the power cord and all peripheral devices from the laptop. Remove any installed PC Cards.

2. Flip the laptop over and locate the battery latch near the center. Slide the battery latch back and hold it in place while you remove the battery. Release the battery latch.

3. Locate the Mini PCI card cover on the side of the computer opposite of the battery slot. Unscrew the cover and lift it out of the way.

4. Determine if there is already a Mini PCI card installed. If so, disconnect the antenna cables attached to the existing card. Find the metal securing tabs located on the edges of the card and push outward. Remove the card from the connector.

5. Insert the wireless card into the Mini PCI connector at a 45-degree angle. Press down on the card until it locks into place. Attach the antenna cables to the wireless card.

6. Replace the Mini PCI card cover and screw into place. Reinsert the battery and reconnect the power cord and peripheral devices. Reinsert PC cards, if necessary. Turn on the laptop.

7. Locate the software that came with the wireless card and run the installer program. Follow the onscreen instructions. Installation is now complete.

Tips & Warnings

• Prepare a clean, well-lit work space prior to installation.
• Do not force the wireless card or Mini PCI card cover into place. Remove and reseat the wireless card, if necessary. Do not leave the antenna cables resting on top of or beneath the wireless card; instead, tuck them into the gap next to the installed card. Each antenna cable is designed to fit onto a particular connector; do not force them into place. Periodically ground yourself by touching the metal connectors located on the back of your laptop. Do not attempt to install a 5 GHz wireless card into your Dell Inspiron 5100; this is against FCC regulations.