How to Remove the Compaq Laptop WiFi Card & Install an Antenna
When you access a wireless Internet connection with your Compaq laptop you are using the internal WiFi card that is connected to the mini PCI port. The card has two wireless antennas that are used to send and receive data. When your wireless card fails or you want to upgrade to a newer model you can open up the laptop case and access the mini PCI port. Removing the existing wireless antennas and swapping out the card is an easy job that only requires a few simple tools.
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Instructions
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Disconnect the Compaq's AC adapter. Turn off the operating system and then close the Compaq's display lid.
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2
Tap your hands against a nearby unpainted metal surface to discharge your body's static electricity. Rotate the Compaq laptop so that the bottom half of the case is facing up.
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Push the battery latch over to it's unlock position and remove the Compaq's battery pack. The location of the release latch will vary between models, but it can usually be found at the upper-right or upper-left corner.
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4
Remove the captive screws holding the plastic cover in place over the existing WiFi card with a Phillips screwdriver. With some Compaq models the card has its own plastic cover while in others the card is positioned underneath the same cover as the memory modules.
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Pull up the plastic cover and then remove it from the Compaq's case. Twist off the two antenna cables attached to the edge of the current WiFi card with needle-nose pliers.
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Spread apart the two plastic tabs holding the WiFi card to the Compaq's motherboard. Grab the edges of the card and slide it out of the Compaq laptop.
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Push the replacement card into the open mini PCI port on the Compaq and push the clips into place to lock the card. Attach the antenna cables to the metal connectors on the side of the new card.
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Replace the Compaq's plastic cover and screws. Insert the battery back into the battery port and then turn on the Compaq laptop.
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Tips & Warnings
WiFi cards that fit inside your Compaq's mini PCI card slot can be bought at online stores that sell electronics and computer supplies.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Woman with laptop image by huaxiadragon from Fotolia.com
