s3-391-9606. Please help me replace the wifi/wireless module?

This S3-391-9606 is under warranty by Fry's, but I do not want to take it in for some indeterminate period. Last time, it took weeks..

The wifi radio is unreliable. I am sure it's a hardware issue, because various drivers made no difference. I am currently using a Realtek USB radio, which works perfectly. However, Bluetooth is often flaky, and I suspect that the same module that provides the wifi function also does Bluetooth.

I really need that USB port and reliable Bluetooth, so wish to replace the radio module. Can you help me identify and find the right item? Any special precautions?

And while in there, I'll clean out the cooling system.

Thanks!

Accepted answers

laurent_14

Hello,

They are the same specifications: 3RD WIFI 2X2 AGN+ BT4.0 ATHEROS WB222. They are interchangeable.

Hmmm! 5$ only! Be careful... it costs normally about 30USD.

NI.23600.102 or NI.23600.103

All comments

laurent_14

Hello,

Could you indicate me the first ten characters of the serial numbers (S/N)?

Notaguru

NXM10AA004

??

laurent_14

P/N: NX.M10AA.004

Model: Aspire S3-391-9606

OS: Windows 7-64 bits

You'll find the part numbers of WLAN/BT board:

NI.23600.102 - WIRELESS LAN - NON-WIDI COMPATIBLE - & BLUETOOTH BOARD (FOXCONN - ATHEROS)

NI.23600.103 - WIRELESS LAN - NON-WIDI COMPATIBLE - & BLUETOOTH BOARD (LITE ON - ATHEROS)

Notaguru

Thank you. Are those two interchangeable?

Notaguru

Also, if they are interchangeable - is one better than the other?

I found both part numbers on eBay at $5 including shipping!!!

laurent_14

Hello,

They are the same specifications: 3RD WIFI 2X2 AGN+ BT4.0 ATHEROS WB222. They are interchangeable.

Hmmm! 5$ only! Be careful... it costs normally about 30USD.

NI.23600.102 or NI.23600.103

Notaguru

After three days' experience with that $5 replacement radio module, I'm happy to report that this S3 is solid. Both wifi and Bluetooth seem to be improved - perhaps they're both on the same board.

Opening the computer was easy - just 2,993,122 philips screws. With the computer upside down, it's necessary to prop up the back because there are still some connections between the rear edge and the main board.

The wifi (and Bluetooth?) module is held in place by one philips screw and a bit of tape. It slides from the edge connector easily. There are two RF connections that snap into place.