Wireless N Upgrade Options

So after looking around, it seems most users use the 4965AGN which can be had for under $25 on amazon.
Amazon.com: Intel Wireless WiFi Link 4965AGN - Network adapter - PCI Express Mini Card - 802.11b, 802.11a, 802.11g, 802.11n (draft): Electronics

Apparently it sometimes needs a mod. But then i took a look, and found the 633ANHMW which is around $35 but is 450mb vs the 300mb and its centrino so it uses less power = more battery life.

Amazon.com: Intel Ultimate N 633ANHMW IEEE 802.11n (draft) Wi-Fi Adapter - Mini PCI Express - 450Mbps: Electronics

Also for either card in order to achieve max transfer rates, i assume a 3rd antenna mod is needed. Hmm is that worth it, or just get a usb, ahh i guess internal is better.

Also i do believe i came across some posts that the wireless switch no longer works when you upgrade. Is this true? If so i may as well just get a usb version then.

 

The 5100 is a step up from the 4965 and it uses 2 antennae. Anything using the high performing internal antennae will work better than a usb version. If it needs a mod it is simple. Either tape 1 pin or cut the trace to it. I put a 5100 in my cf 51 and I am very happy with it. ! thing, make sure wlan is enabled in the bios before you swap cards. The bios only shows a limited number of cards. If wlan is enabled the unrecognized cards do work anyway.

 

does the wireless switch still work?

 

Do you mean a physical switch or software switch? I have the 5100 in my CF 51. It does not have a hardware switch. I can right click on the icon and disable it. It then shows up with the red X in the XP control panel.
If you get a used one avoid the Dell and IBM versions. I believe those are the ones with the oddball connections. A Google search will give a lot of information about these cards.

 

Oh, ya the cf 30 has a actual hard switch. i would go with the amazon order, no need to get used its only $35.