HP Notebook Possible Motherboard Problem

HP dv6308nr, Vista Home Premium, 32 bit. Would not recognize its own wireless adapter, although hard wired works great. Took out adapter, reinstalled and downloaded drivers. Didn't work. Got new wireless adapter, still won't find it. Could it be the motherboard? How does one diagnose motherboard issues? Can't afford to send to HP or buy new notebook.

 

HP Motherboard/Wireless Adapter Problem

Thank for the response. Device Manager did not show the old wireless adapter and does not show the new one either. Otherwise, the notebook works well.

 

Some (most) laptops have a switch to turn the wireless on or off, check for a switch.

Look in the BIOS (startup configuration settings) that the wireless is enabled. You might want to set "defaults" (it might be by pressing F9).

Check if there is any troubleshooting listed in the User Guide/manual. Look up FAQs (troubleshooting) at the laptop manufacturer's website.

What do you see listed under Network Adapters in Device Manager?

As for the the adapter card, I can only ask if you have you run the driver installation disk for it?

Matt
PS Note that this thread has been moved to the Hardware forum.

 

HP Notebook Wireless/Motherboard ad nauseum

No errors in Device Manager. Downloaded Drivers. Chatted with HP. Turned switch on and off. Troubleshooted as best I can. Won't run Wireless Assistant.

 

HP Notebook

Device Manager shows the Broadcom (whatever you should call it) ethernet card, not the Adapter.

 

You haven't tried looking in the BIOS yet? I think that would be my next set of checks. Disconnect any other connected hardware because it might cause a conflict.

If you have free support from HP, get them to help you check the BIOS and find out if there is a reset for the CMOS, usually by disconnecting all power (and removing the battery), then holding down the power button for 30 seconds or more. Free support means it is still under warranty. If the motherboard is broken they will need to replace it.

You can keep trying to get the adapter card to work if it is out of warranty. I would go into the BIOS and disable the onboard wireless in that case, because as I said, it could cause conflicts. If you follow the set up instructions at what point do the instructions "not work "?

Matt