Question:
can wireless be added to the v2000z?
I have a very frustrating problem, I just received the v2000z that I ordered from HP, and it did not come with the wireless that I wanted. I wanted it and checked my config several times before I submitted the order, but I must have missed it that last time somehow. Anyway, I called them and I have two choices: Have them build me a new one and wait 3 more weeks (not an option), or install a PC card, which would be a disappointing horror on a brand new modern laptop.
My question is this : Is there a source for me to buy the internal part? I asked HP, they will not sell this to me. I am an experienced tech that has done several CPU, MB and screen replacements on laptops, so the work is not an issue. Is there a source for this part? If I had to have a wireless card sticking out of my new laptop I would hate my new toy for it's entire life. Thanks in advance.
Answer:
Re: can wireless be added to the v2000z?
Even if you can buy the wifi mini-pci card, there's no guarantee that antenna, that runs from the mini-pci slot to the back of the LCD panel, are there.
If you can get the wifi card and the antenna and okay with voiding the warranty, then yes, it's possible to do it.
I suggest that you just return the laptop and configure a new one....
Answer:
Re: can wireless be added to the v2000z?
You probably still have the mini-pci slot available, so my guess would be that you actually can add a wireless module.
My biggest concern would be, do they have internal antennas even if it did not ship with the card ?
Findind those antennas might proove difficult.
For the sake of simplicity, I would ship back the notebook to them and have them install the wireless lan modue
EDIT: Burnt by less than 1 min :D
Answer:
Re: can wireless be added to the v2000z?
You could find one of those BroadCom mini-PCI wireless cards on eBay pretty cheap( $25). About the antenna, I think most likely it is already there, just not connected. Best way is to open the Mini-PCI slot cover and check if you have those leads in the vicinity. Without antenna also you may be able to use it, but you will get less range.
Answer:
Re: can wireless be added to the v2000z?
Even if there are antenna connectors, last I knew HP still had their whitelist in the BIOS that only lets you use two or three "approved" miniPCI wireless cards.
Answer:
Re: can wireless be added to the v2000z?
Even if there are antenna connectors, last I knew HP still had their whitelist in the BIOS that only lets you use two or three "approved" miniPCI wireless cards.
That is the reason I mentioned BroadCom ones as we know those should work.
Answer:
Re: can wireless be added to the v2000z?
Arrgh, what a frustration. I can't send it back, I will have to get an external PC card.
Thanks for the replies.
Answer:
Re: can wireless be added to the v2000z?
It's not just a matter of finding a Broadcom card, it's finding the approved Broadcom cards. The BIOS checks the PCI ID.
I don't think anyone's verified that the whitelist is there in the current models though.
Answer:
Re: can wireless be added to the v2000z?
I bought a v2000z 5 months ago w/o wireless. I did open the case but found no preinstalled antenna. Since I bought it cheap about $450 after rebate so I didn't return it. I also tempted to buy a BroadCom mini-PCI wireless cards on eBay but chose not to take the chance. I hate to say this but my next notebook will definitely not HP because of the whitelist **** unless I can get a very good deal :D
So if you decide not to return your laptop, then getting an external pc card is pretty much the only less dramatic option left.
Answer:
Re: can wireless be added to the v2000z?
Yeah, which sucks, because after tax and shipping I have a brand new $950 laptop with a stupid wireless PC card sticking out of the side. Which fugging sucks.