This tutorial provides step-by-step instructions on how to remove and install the wireless card on an Inspiron 14 5445. Before you begin, power off your computer and disconnect all attached peripherals. Always wear ESD wrist strap while working inside the computer to prevent damage due to electrostatic discharge. If you need more information about Inspiron 14 5445, visit dell.com/support.
In this video, we demonstrate how to replace the wireless card in an Inspiron 14 5445 with an aluminium chassis. Ensure that you always use ESD protection when working inside the computer. Disconnect all the attached peripherals.
To begin, loosen the two captive screws and then remove the five screws that secure the base cover to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly. Next, use a plastic scribe to pry open the base cover starting from the recesses near the hinges. Continue prying along the other sides to release the base cover and remove it.
Then, disconnect the battery cable from the connector on the system board. Now, turn the computer over and open the display panel to access the power button. Press and hold the power button for 20 seconds to ground the computer and drain the flea power. To remove the wireless card, remove the screw that secures the wireless-card bracket and the wireless card to the system board.
Lift the bracket off the wireless card. Disconnect the wireless-antenna cables from the connectors on the card. Then, slide and remove the wireless card from its slot on the system board. To install the wireless card, reconnect the antenna cables. Connect the white antenna cable to the main connector marked with a white triangle.
Similarly, connect the black antenna cable to the auxiliary connector marked with a black triangle. Next, align the notch on the wireless card to the tab on the slot on the system board and slide it in at an angle. Align and place the wireless-card bracket on the system board. And then, replace the screw to secure the bracket and the wireless card to the system board.
Now, connect the battery cable to the connector on the system board. Align the base cover with the palm-rest and keyboard assembly and snap it into place. Replace the five screws and then tighten the two captive screws to secure the base cover to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly. Once the computer is fully assembled, connect the power adapter. Please note, the computer will only power on if the power adapter is connected. For more information about the Inspiron 14 5445, visit Dell.com/Support.
