My XPS 15 got a little wet...

Hi all,

I had a small drink bottle leak in my bag that was also carrying my XPS 9550 I started the XPS and it ran fine without any issues, however, the next morning I noticed the network adapter (DW1830) was no longer detected. When I go into Device Manager, I see an uninstalled “Multimedia Controller”, and when I physically remove the DW1830 from the system, the Multimedia Controller is no longer showing.

When I try to install the WiFi drivers, it says that the device isn’t detected. The strang thing is that BT works completely fine, and from my understanding, BT in built in to the DW1830?

Is it safe to say the DW1830 has died? Or could it be something much more serious?

Thanks

 

With the title I was expecting something else entirely.
Yes, would agree that the wireless card is dead. Its possibly there's damage to the motherboard itself but the working Bluetooth suggests its just the card. Easiest way to find out would be getting a replacement card. You can wait longer to see if it dries a bitt more and works properly but small chance. Unless you have Dell or Microsoft's accidental warranty policy, you can find a new card from several stores or eBay. You can also replace the DW1830 with an Intel 8260 ($15 to $30), which some may recommend due to higher satisfaction with Intel cards. It is 2x2 however, while the Dell card is 3x3.
Also, you probably know this but I highly recommend keeping devices completely powered off if they get wet until your sure it has dried out. Reduces a lot of damage risk

 

Thanks for the reply mate. I ended up finding an old Atheros card laying around which I put it and it works without issues - so the Dell wireless card is confirmed dead. I will look at a replacement card in the meantime. I see Intel have a newer 8265, however, wouldn't a 3x3 card be better than a 2x2? I never had any issues with the DW1830 and I always download smoothly @ 100mbps+ on my cable connection

 

Great to hear. Yes, 3x3 is "better". But there are many many factors that determine whether you'll actually see any benefit from a 3x3 card, most importantly whether you have any 3x3 APs. Most users wont see a difference between the two, and the 9560 reverts back to a 2x2. Here's an article that explains it better: https://www.networkworld.com/articl...2x3--3x3-configs-affect-wlan-performance.html
I mentioned the Intel card as its well reviewed and likely more readily available through multiple outlets. But if you have been benefitting from a 3x3, or even prefer it since you've had no issues, then definitely go for that

 

This is serious. There are plenty of guides on the internet whch you need to review but a few thoughts to begin your search.

Problem is that liquid moves very nimbly and can cause damage to traces, soldier, components etc. which will manifest themselves over the coming days, weeks and months.

You have already confirmed liquid damage relating to the wireless card although that could be a problem elsewhere and may be just the beginning. Sugary drinks may be worst case scenario. Water can also kill your computer.

I would call a local tech to clean up the computer ASAP; you can see how that is done on YouTube "Louis Rossman" but a tech will have some specialzed goodies and techniques that will maximize probability of long-term recovery (e.g. ultra pure iso alcohol, ultrasonic cleaner, drying oven).

If I were in your shoes, to start, I would immediately:

- turn off the computer
- unplug the computer
- remove the bottom cover
- unplug and remove the battery
- carefully blot any remaining liquid you can find
- air dry until you get to a tech

https://www.ifixit.com/Answers/View...y+laptop,+will+water+damage+corrode+it+slowly

 

Solid, better safe than sorry, advice

 

I ended up having a chat to Dell Support and they have agreed to send me a replacement card, which I should receive tomorrow, even though the system is out of warranty.

The leak thankfully wasn't this bad. I would say only 20-30ml leaked from the bottle, and I opened up the system as soon as I noticed and the internals looked completely dry. This is why I was very surprised I came across any issues