Framework Laptop 16 Wi-Fi Module Replacement

Escrito Por: Alex Diaz-Kokaisl

Comentários: 0

Framework Laptop 16 Wi-Fi Module Replacement

Dificuldade

Moderate

Passos

Tempo necessário

10 - 20 minutes

Introdução

Follow this guide to remove and replace the Wi-Fi module in your Framework Laptop 16.

The Wi-Fi module is a modular card that enables Wi-Fi and Bluetooth functions. While the Framework Laptop 16 works with M.2 2230 Wi-Fi cards, Framework recommends replacing it with the same model of card that the system originally came with.

The Wi-Fi module has delicate antenna connectors. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully to avoid damaging them.

Ferramentas

Framework Screwdriver

Passo 1

Unplug all cables and fully shut down your laptop.

Passo 2

Use your fingers to slide the Touchpad Spacer toward the bottom edge of the laptop and unclip it.
If you're having trouble, check if the corresponding Input Module latch is properly unlocked.
Lift the Touchpad Spacer off the laptop and remove it.

Passo 3

Repeat the same procedure for the other touchpad spacer.

Passo 4

Use your fingers to slide the Touchpad Module toward the bottom edge of the laptop and disconnect it.
If you're having trouble, check if the Input Module latches are properly unlocked.
Lift the Touchpad Module and remove it.

Passo 5

The keyboard is held in place with strong magnets. Apply gradually increasing force to avoid having the keyboard violently eject.
Grip the two pull tabs along the bottom of the keyboard and lift until its magnets release.
Remove the keyboard.

Passo 6

Your Input Module(s) might be different, but the procedure to remove them is the same.
Grip the pull tab at the bottom of the Input Module and lift until its magnets release.
Remove the Input Module.
Repeat for any remaining Input Modules.

Passo 7

Grip the black pull tab on the Mid Plate cable press connector.
Lift up to disconnect the Mid Plate cable.

Passo 8

The Mid Plate screws are ordered from 2–17 (number 1 is the press connector). You don't have to follow the order, but you can use it to help keep track of the screws you've loosened.
Use your Framework Screwdriver to loosen the 16 captive T5 Torx screws securing the Mid Plate.

Passo 9

Use your fingers to lift the Mid Plate off the laptop and remove it.

Passo 10

Use your Framework Screwdriver to loosen the captive T5 Torx screw securing Wi-Fi module.
The module might pop up at a shallow angle when you loosen the screw.

Passo 11

Slide the clear plastic cover straight off the module and remove it.

Passo 12

Grip the end of the Wi-Fi Module with the screw hole and slide it out of its socket.
Remove the Wi-Fi Module.

Passo 13

While holding the Wi-Fi module down, insert the flat end of your Framework Screwdriver under one of the coaxial connectors, where the cable meets the metal head.
Lift the screwdriver straight up to disconnect the coaxial cable.
Repeat for the other coaxial cable.

Passo 14

Congratulations on completing disassembly! The remaining steps will show how to reassemble your Framework Laptop.

Passo 15

Hold the Wi-Fi module by its edges. Don't touch the gold contacts with your fingers. If you do, wipe the contacts with a clean, lint-free cloth to remove any finger oils.
Align the Wi-Fi module's gold contacts and notch with the socket on the Mainboard.
Insert the Wi-Fi module into the socket at a shallow angle. The gold contacts should mostly be covered by the socket.
The Wi-Fi module fits into the socket in one orientation. If it doesn't fit, try flipping the module.

Passo 16

Hold the Wi-Fi module down with your finger.
Position the white antenna cable connector over the left Wi-Fi module's coaxial socket.
If you're unsure which cable goes where, refer to the arrows on the Wi-Fi module for which color cable matches with its connector.
Tweezers can help position the connector.
Use your finger to press the connector into place. You should feel a faint click, and the cable will stay attached to the socket by itself.
These connectors are very delicate! If the connector doesn't feel like it's clicking in place, reposition the connector and try again.
Repeat the procedure with the black antenna cable.

Passo 17

Slide the clear plastic cover on the module and align its screw with the screw hole cutout.

Passo 18

Use your Framework Screwdriver to tighten the captive T5 Torx screw securing Wi-Fi module.

Passo 19

Place the Mid Plate on the laptop, making sure it sits evenly on its alignment pegs.

Passo 20

Use your Framework Screwdriver to tighten the 16 captive T5 Torx screws in order (starting with 2) to secure the Mid Plate evenly.

Passo 21

Align the Mid Plate cable press connector over its socket and press down to connect it.

Passo 22

Your Input Module(s) might be different, but the procedure to remove them is the same.
Align the top edge of the Input Module with the top edge of the laptop.
Lay the Input Module on the laptop and let the magnets pull the keyboard into place
Make sure the Input Module is seated properly on its alignment pegs and sits flush with the edges of the laptop.
Repeat for any remaining Input Modules.

Passo 23

Align the top edge of the keyboard with the top edge of the laptop.
Lay the keyboard on the laptop and let the magnets pull the keyboard into place
Make sure the keyboard is seated properly on its alignment pegs and sits flush with the edges of the laptop.

Passo 24

Place the Touchpad Module flat on its cutout so its clips are properly aligned.
Press the Touchpad Module down and slide it into place so it lines up evenly with the bottom edge of the laptop.

Passo 25

Place the Touchpad Spacer over its spot on the laptop with the bottom edge overhanging slightly.
Slide the Touchpad Spacer towards the top of the laptop to secure it.
Repeat the same procedure for the other Touchpad Spacer.