Change laptop NIC - Centrino N-2200 (2.4 GHz) to N-6205 (dual-band)

RVC · 10 May 2020

I removed hardware from Windows pc's for other OS's but not Win10. Win10 is current with required updates on both laptops. I do not want to take this simple change for granted. If memory serves me correctly the process I used to implement was with older Microsoft OS's was similar to:

1 - Remove hardware from OS configuration (i.e, delete from Device Magr or similar)
2 - Turn of PC
3 - Remove hardware (i.e., NIC in this example)
4 - Boot PC
5 - Hardware often recognized automatically by OS

I searched for related threads and tutorials but was unsuccessful.

Berton · 10 May 2020

Biggest problem with a Notebook/Laptop is in getting to the few parts that are changeable. The Wireless adapter is usually close to the memory module slots, but not always. Getting a suitable replacement can be an issue, can't say about what you listed. Sometimes a less-costly way can be to use a USB Dongle with the features desired, I've done that on a couple of older Notebooks that had the 802.11g but for better speed they wanted the 802.11n. To get the full performance of 802.11ac requires an 802.11ac Wireless Router.

Caledon Ken · 10 May 2020

I would add that I usually reload BIOS defaults when I change installed equipment just ensure it has been discovered it correctly.

I changed a radio in an older device and found the original radio was full height and the new radio was half height. I needed a little adapter I bought off e-bay. Didn't cost $5 dollars.

Helmut · 10 May 2020

This is a Laptop in which case it is not so easy.
1) The laptop will not have a proper internal aerial for 5 GHz.
2) Laptops are not always compatible with every Mini PCI-E Wireless Card.

Far easier to get an external USB Dual Band Wireless Card dongle.

NavyLCDR · 10 May 2020

RVC said:

I removed hardware from Windows pc's for other OS's but not Win10. Win10 is current with required updates on both laptops. I do not want to take this simple change for granted. If memory serves me correctly the process I used to implement was with older Microsoft OS's was similar to:

1 - Remove hardware from OS configuration (i.e, delete from Device Magr or similar)
2 - Turn of PC
3 - Remove hardware (i.e., NIC in this example)
4 - Boot PC
5 - Hardware often recognized automatically by OS

I searched for related threads and tutorials but was unsuccessful.

Yes, that is the process.

me75006 · 10 May 2020

I disabled my internal NIC in BIOS, added a dual band USB dongle, adjust whatever as needed.
This was in my IBM Stinkpad.