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    Dell Precision M4800 - Malfunctioning wifi switch. How difficult is the fix?

    Discussion in 'Hardware Components and Aftermarket Upgrades' started by gmm22, Nov 15, 2020.

  1. gmm22

    gmm22 Notebook Consultant

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    I have a Dell Precision M4800. A while ago, it went to airplane mode on its own and I could no longer get on the internet wireless. Since then on perhaps two occasions the airplane mode kicked off and wireless worked, but it no longer works at all. I am 95% certain the problem is in the mechanical wireless switch. On a hunch I used an exacto blade to trim the little switch just a touch in the event the length of slide was inadequate to make contact. I can't see what's going on inside there but I'm guessing the actual switch is right behind. I also drilled a small hole in the chassis where the battery goes in, so I could spray some Caig contact cleaner at where I think the switch is. I feel I got it where I wanted because a bit seeped out of the switch, but no luck. Still no wireless. Troubleshooting still says turn wireless switch on.

    Any other quick and dirty ideas how to get my wireless back? Could there be some other switch or setting I'm missing? The airplane mode and little airplane icon stays on all the time.

    Is this a difficult fix for a Dell service center? Any other thoughts would be welcome.
     
  2. gmm22

    gmm22 Notebook Consultant

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    I found a picture of the switch itself. Does anyone know if it is mounted right behind the external switch? Maybe I didn't get any contact cleaner where it needs to be.

    [​IMG]

    [​IMG]
     
  3. Buontinh

    Buontinh Notebook Enthusiast

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    Yes it's mounted right behind the external switch. You should be able to replace it yourself. Just remove the keyboard then the top cover and you will see it.

    Check out this YouTube video at around 2:45
     
    Last edited: Nov 21, 2020