How to Fix a PSP WLAN Switch

The WLAN switch on the original Sony PlayStation Portable turns the console's wireless networking capabilities on and off. Unfortunately, the switch sometimes becomes loose or "sticky" and stops working correctly. Troubleshoot the malfunctioning switch to get your PSP online again quickly.

Loose Switch

Remove any UMD game disks or memory sticks from the PSP.

Remove the battery from its casing, and unscrew the four screws in the battery compartment.

Unscrew the remaining screws -- two at the back and one on the bottom edge -- while holding the PSP's faceplate in place. Pull the faceplate off gently, and set it aside.

Jiggle the WLAN switch until its lower section -- the part usually covered by the faceplate -- slides back into place. You may want to use tweezers if the switch doesn't slide back with gentle pressure.

Unscrew the small screw holding the LCD plate down if the WLAN switch still does not slide in. You will be able to access the entire housing for the WLAN switch with the LCD plate removed. Don't touch the screen, however, because smudges are difficult to remove.

Replace all the screws, and test your PSP's wireless connection with the WLAN switch in the On position.

Broken Switch

Buy a new WLAN switch if the original is broken beyond repair. Find new WLAN switches online from replacement part sites.

Remove any UMD game disks or memory sticks from the PSP. Then remove the battery from its casing, and unscrew the four screws.

Unscrew the remaining screws holding the PSP's faceplate in place, and then pull the faceplate off gently, and set it aside.

Unscrew the small screw holding the LCD plate down.

Pull the WLAN switch connector up gently from its connection to the motherboard. Set the new WLAN switch connector onto the motherboard; it should click in with very little pressure. Re-attach the LCD plate and the faceplate, and test the new switch.