Upgrading the Dell Inspiron 1525 to 801.11n Wireless

A major shift toward 801.11n has pushed manufacturers to adapt to a better wireless band.  Compared to Wireless-B/G, Wireless-N has nearly double the range and almost 3 times the data transfer rate.  So it's a no-brainer to upgrade any platform that is capable.  Thankfully, the Dell Inspiron 1525 is capable. Details after the break




After searching for wifi cards with 801.11n capabilities, I found that a Mini-PCI card was available through Intel.  The Intel 4965AGN Wifi Card works perfectly with the Dell Inspiron 1525.  Although Windows 7 has stock driver and will see the Intel card without issue, I went the extra step of installing the driver built by Intel.  

The Intel card installed.  I found wiring to be a bit tricky until my search led me to this next photo that lends wire-color coordination instead of the numbered pins on the card I purchased.

This image will help with wiring.  Just re-install the card and follow the colored triangles next the pins. 









Now, time to enjoy double the range and 3 times more data transfer rate. 

Awesome.