Changing the PCI Wireless Card in an Apple Laptop

February 18, 2009 by techie03
Filed under: Laptop Repair Tips

With older models of Apple laptops, in this case the Pro Core Duo, have a disadvantage as they have an 802.11g laptop wireless card . To get the best performance in both g and n wireless environments an upgrade to the 802.11n card is almost a necessity. First, as always, disconnect the laptop from the power for safety concerns. There are 8 screws to be removed around the device, remove them and be sure to keep the different lengths in separate piles as they are specific to their locations on the laptop. A misplaced screw may damage the internal components if not put back into its designated spot.

It is recommended that the laptop be worked on while open; this will alleviate undue pressure on the screen. Place a soft cloth on a table and turn the device over, and remove the three screws from the back cover to reveal the hard drive and memory access. Then remove the next three screws located just above the components; they will be close to the plastic outer cover. At the opposite end of the laptop there will be 9 screws; from left to right remove the 2nd, 4th, 7th and 9th screws. Two more remain keeping the battery in place, remove these as well; they will be to the left of the previously removed screws. Next, remove the last three screws from the back cover. Be sure not to mix up the middle and shortest screw as the longer screws will hit the motherboard if used in its place.

Now you can lift up the cover and keyboard, be careful as the keyboard is still attached, then remove the clip on the connector to the keyboard. In the upper left hand corner you will find 2 antennas remove them and the 2 screws. Now the old wireless card can be removed and replaced with the new. All that is left is to replace all of the screws and you are finished. Be sure to take your time as rushing can result in faulty screw placement and damage.

Tags: apple airport card , apple laptop repair