[malibublues]

Hi everyone - dealing with a problem with the wireless connection on my laptop that is driving me a bit crazy. Here's the problem...

- When I initially boot up the laptop it cannot access the wireless network
- After re-booting the laptop a few times (usually between 2-5) it will access the network BUT if I move the laptop even a few inches in any direction the signal will be lost again.
- Once the signal is lost, no other wireless network appear to be available (there are usually around 5 or so other networks available)
- The only way to get back online is to reboot the laptop again
- Once the computer has been running it seems to be able to access the wireless network much faster after rebooting (usually on the first try, but occasionally will take 2-5 reboots)

So far I've adjusted the power settings for the wireless adapter, checked for interference (doesn't appear to be any, changed the channel on the router, and downloaded the latest drivers.

I've got a Dell Inspiron 600m running Windows XP, and the wireless router is no more than 10 feet away.

Any help, tips or advice you can provide would be much appreciated.

Thanks in advance...

[JohnWill]

Sounds like you may have a problem with the wireless hardware in the Dell.

[malibublues]

Originally Posted by JohnWill

Sounds like you may have a problem with the wireless hardware in the Dell.

Thanks John. The laptop is 7 years old so that could very well be the case. Any suggestions on how to fix that? How difficult is it to replace the wireless hardware and what would be involved?

[JohnWill]

WOW, seven years old, it doesn't owe you anything!

I'd probably consider a PCMCIA wireless adapter, much simpler than trying to fix an internal one.

[malibublues]

Haha yeah I know. Thanks for the suggestion, a PCMCIA wireless adapter definitely looks like the best way to go.

[Bernardo]

Or a USB adapter

[JohnWill]

USB is my last choice for networking, I'd much rather have the PCMCIA.