Centrino Ultimate-N 6300 in Sony Vaio SVE151190X

[idata]

So I was looking for an dual band replacement for a (in my house, compared to other devices) low performing Atheros 2.4Ghz adapter, and ended up with the Ultimate 6300. Replacement and driver install were straight forward, but I didn't realize until then that the 6300 is a 3 antenna adapter, so I left the 3rd connector unhooked for now (thought I may investigate into adding a 3rd antenna to the Vaio later). But that's about it as far as compatibility... Didn't get it to recognize Wireless was On whatsoever, even without the Vaio Smart Network Software, a wireless control add-on. After uninstalling the tool, which I thought might be causing a conflict here, the Vaio's Wireless status LED would be permanently lit as expected, but yet, Windows Mobility Center would report Wireless being Off, and with the Turn On button greyed out. But, as soon as I would put the Atheros adapter back in, WMC would show Wireless On. All I can think of is some sort of incompatibility of the Ultimate adapter with the Vaio Hardware, causing the WMC failing to report a Wireless status to the adapter. Or something of that nature..

Any suggestions as to what is really going on here, and what other Centrino adapter might have a better chance of working are welcome.

Thanks,

Martin

[idata]

Hello Martin,

The behavior you are describing would show if there's some sort of hardware restriction by the OEM, this to only use specific revisions or models of WiFi adapters provided by the computer manufacturer only.

Note that in this case what we recommend and encourage you to first contact the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) to determine if the product is approved for use in a specific system. Be aware that manufacturer's are bound by FCC regulations to certify specific adapters in specific systems to be in compliance with the International Special Committee for Radio Interference standards for radiated and conducted electromagnetic interference.

Installing a wireless adapter in your laptop can cause several issues which may affect usage of the wireless adapter or laptop. Some of these issues may include the following:

- The OEM may have installed the wireless adapter with a lock to prevent installation of another adapter.

- Your adapter may not be electrically compatible with your laptop that may cause the adapter and/or your laptop to no longer function.

- Wireless hardware installation and use is subject to regulatory approval, and the adapter purchased may not support your local regulations.

For additional tips and information, refer to:

Intel® WiFi Products - Why doesn't my laptop recognize my new Intel wireless adapter?

http://www.intel.com/support/wireless/wlan/sb/CS-031167.htm http://www.intel.com/support/wireless/wlan/sb/CS-031167.htm

Intel® WiFi Products - Upgrade or exchange Intel® wireless adapter hardware

http://www.intel.com/support/wireless/wlan/sb/CS-006006 http://www.intel.com/support/wireless/wlan/sb/CS-006006

Cheers!