I don't know the answer but looking at the [link|https://dl.dell.com/topicspdf/xps-15-9550-laptop_service-manual_en-us.pdf#_OPENTOPIC_TOC_PROCESSING_d111e6046|service manual], taken from this support [link|https://www.dell.com/support/home/en-au/product-support/product/xps-15-9550-laptop/docs|webpage] for the laptop, the antennas are connected to what is called an ''antenna module'' (see p.65) and from there to the WiFi card.
Just wondering if there's a connection problem between the antenna and the module or the module and the WiFi card. Wouldn't be the first time a cable (antenna or video) was damaged where it passes through the hinge to get from the lid to the case
I realize that you said that the BT worked OK and assuming that you checked for WiFi networks operating on the 2.4GHz band that you should detect them also as BT works on the same band. I think that there are at least two antenna connections on the WiFi card (is this correct?) so maybe the WiFi needs both to function correctly and the BT only one, but this is nothing but a guess.
Did you try checking for [link|https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-switch-from-24ghz-to-5ghz-in-windows-10/|5GHz WiFi networks] just to see if there are any detected or not?
Also try downloading, installing and running this free [link|https://www.techspot.com/downloads/5936-inssider.html|WiFi sniffer program] and check if it shows any WiFi networks being detected.
The reason I suggest this is to see if it shows if there are any networks out there at all, even if they have a weak signal strength of say -85 to -100dBm. Normally networks of this strength (usually too far away) can't be connected to as their signal is considered too weak so maybe they're not even being shown as an option by Windows. If any do show up it proves that in the main the WiFi is detecting the signals but for some reason the signal may not be strong enough. Does your network SSID show up in the sniffer program network list?
You've checked the card and the software so that leaves hardware - antenna or motherboard
FYI usual WiFi signal strength values are as follows, the levels are expressed in -ve dBm. i.e the higher the number the weaker the signal:
-30 dBm: This is the maximum signal strength. Signals having this level can sometimes also cause problems as it can be too strong and can overload the WiFi card
-50 dBm: excellent signal strength.
-60 dBm: good signal strength.
-67 dBm: reliable signal strength.
-70 dBm: not a strong signal strength.
-80 dBm: unreliable signal strength.
Just some thoughts.
=== Update: ===
-
To summarize the comments below on how to troubleshoot the problem to prove whether it is software or hardware related and in this instance solve the problem, try the following:
+
To summarize the comments below on how to troubleshoot the problem to prove whether it is software or hardware related and in this instance solve a compatibility problem between the card, the laptop and Windows OS, try the following:
Try downloading, installing and running this free [link|https://www.techspot.com/downloads/5936-inssider.html|WiFi sniffer program] and check if it shows any WiFi networks being detected.
-
If none shown, try starting the laptop with a "live" version of a Linux OS e.g. Ubuntu Lite etc. This allows you to preview the OS before installing it and check if the WiFi works OK.
+
''If none shown,'' try starting the laptop with a "live" version of a Linux OS e.g. Ubuntu Lite etc. This allows you to preview the OS before installing it and check if the WiFi works OK.
-
If it does, you may have to try a [link|https://www.dell.com/community/XPS/XPS-15-9550-Wi-Fi-Upgrade-to-Intel-AX200/td-p/7706731|different] WiFi card. (example only as the post shows that it worked, at least in their laptop).
+
''If it does'', you may have to try a [link|https://www.dell.com/community/XPS/XPS-15-9550-Wi-Fi-Upgrade-to-Intel-AX200/td-p/7706731|different] WiFi card. (example only as the post shows that it worked, at least in their laptop).
I don't know the answer but looking at the [link|https://dl.dell.com/topicspdf/xps-15-9550-laptop_service-manual_en-us.pdf#_OPENTOPIC_TOC_PROCESSING_d111e6046|service manual], taken from this support [link|https://www.dell.com/support/home/en-au/product-support/product/xps-15-9550-laptop/docs|webpage] for the laptop, the antennas are connected to what is called an ''antenna module'' (see p.65) and from there to the WiFi card.
Just wondering if there's a connection problem between the antenna and the module or the module and the WiFi card. Wouldn't be the first time a cable (antenna or video) was damaged where it passes through the hinge to get from the lid to the case
I realize that you said that the BT worked OK and assuming that you checked for WiFi networks operating on the 2.4GHz band that you should detect them also as BT works on the same band. I think that there are at least two antenna connections on the WiFi card (is this correct?) so maybe the WiFi needs both to function correctly and the BT only one, but this is nothing but a guess.
Did you try checking for [link|https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-switch-from-24ghz-to-5ghz-in-windows-10/|5GHz WiFi networks] just to see if there are any detected or not?
Also try downloading, installing and running this free [link|https://www.techspot.com/downloads/5936-inssider.html|WiFi sniffer program] and check if it shows any WiFi networks being detected.
The reason I suggest this is to see if it shows if there are any networks out there at all, even if they have a weak signal strength of say -85 to -100dBm. Normally networks of this strength (usually too far away) can't be connected to as their signal is considered too weak so maybe they're not even being shown as an option by Windows. If any do show up it proves that in the main the WiFi is detecting the signals but for some reason the signal may not be strong enough. Does your network SSID show up in the sniffer program network list?
You've checked the card and the software so that leaves hardware - antenna or motherboard
FYI usual WiFi signal strength values are as follows, the levels are expressed in -ve dBm. i.e the higher the number the weaker the signal:
-30 dBm: This is the maximum signal strength. Signals having this level can sometimes also cause problems as it can be too strong and can overload the WiFi card
-50 dBm: excellent signal strength.
-60 dBm: good signal strength.
-67 dBm: reliable signal strength.
-70 dBm: not a strong signal strength.
-80 dBm: unreliable signal strength.
Just some thoughts.
=== Update: ===
-
Hi @erelectronics
-
To summarize the comments below on how to troubleshoot the problem to prove whether it is software or hardware related and in this instance solve the problem, try the following:
-
Try downloading, installing and running this free [link|https://www.techspot.com/downloads/5936-inssider.html|WiFi sniffer program|new_window=true] and check if it shows any WiFi networks being detected.
+
Try downloading, installing and running this free [link|https://www.techspot.com/downloads/5936-inssider.html|WiFi sniffer program] and check if it shows any WiFi networks being detected.
If none shown, try starting the laptop with a "live" version of a Linux OS e.g. Ubuntu Lite etc. This allows you to preview the OS before installing it and check if the WiFi works OK.
-
If it does, you may have to try a [link|https://www.dell.com/community/XPS/XPS-15-9550-Wi-Fi-Upgrade-to-Intel-AX200/td-p/7706731|different|new_window=true] WiFi card. (example only as the post shows that it worked, at least in their laptop).
-
-
+
If it does, you may have to try a [link|https://www.dell.com/community/XPS/XPS-15-9550-Wi-Fi-Upgrade-to-Intel-AX200/td-p/7706731|different] WiFi card. (example only as the post shows that it worked, at least in their laptop).
I don't know the answer but looking at the [link|https://dl.dell.com/topicspdf/xps-15-9550-laptop_service-manual_en-us.pdf#_OPENTOPIC_TOC_PROCESSING_d111e6046|service manual], taken from this support [link|https://www.dell.com/support/home/en-au/product-support/product/xps-15-9550-laptop/docs|webpage] for the laptop, the antennas are connected to what is called an ''antenna module'' (see p.65) and from there to the WiFi card.
Just wondering if there's a connection problem between the antenna and the module or the module and the WiFi card. Wouldn't be the first time a cable (antenna or video) was damaged where it passes through the hinge to get from the lid to the case
I realize that you said that the BT worked OK and assuming that you checked for WiFi networks operating on the 2.4GHz band that you should detect them also as BT works on the same band. I think that there are at least two antenna connections on the WiFi card (is this correct?) so maybe the WiFi needs both to function correctly and the BT only one, but this is nothing but a guess.
Did you try checking for [link|https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-switch-from-24ghz-to-5ghz-in-windows-10/|5GHz WiFi networks] just to see if there are any detected or not?
Also try downloading, installing and running this free [link|https://www.techspot.com/downloads/5936-inssider.html|WiFi sniffer program] and check if it shows any WiFi networks being detected.
The reason I suggest this is to see if it shows if there are any networks out there at all, even if they have a weak signal strength of say -85 to -100dBm. Normally networks of this strength (usually too far away) can't be connected to as their signal is considered too weak so maybe they're not even being shown as an option by Windows. If any do show up it proves that in the main the WiFi is detecting the signals but for some reason the signal may not be strong enough. Does your network SSID show up in the sniffer program network list?
You've checked the card and the software so that leaves hardware - antenna or motherboard
FYI usual WiFi signal strength values are as follows, the levels are expressed in -ve dBm. i.e the higher the number the weaker the signal:
-30 dBm: This is the maximum signal strength. Signals having this level can sometimes also cause problems as it can be too strong and can overload the WiFi card
-50 dBm: excellent signal strength.
-60 dBm: good signal strength.
-67 dBm: reliable signal strength.
-70 dBm: not a strong signal strength.
-80 dBm: unreliable signal strength.
+
Just some thoughts.
+
+
=== Update: ===
+
Hi @erelectronics
+
+
To summarize the comments below on how to troubleshoot the problem to prove whether it is software or hardware related and in this instance solve the problem, try the following:
+
+
Try downloading, installing and running this free [link|https://www.techspot.com/downloads/5936-inssider.html|WiFi sniffer program|new_window=true] and check if it shows any WiFi networks being detected.
+
+
If none shown, try starting the laptop with a "live" version of a Linux OS e.g. Ubuntu Lite etc. This allows you to preview the OS before installing it and check if the WiFi works OK.
+
+
If it does, you may have to try a [link|https://www.dell.com/community/XPS/XPS-15-9550-Wi-Fi-Upgrade-to-Intel-AX200/td-p/7706731|different|new_window=true] WiFi card. (example only as the post shows that it worked, at least in their laptop).
I don't know the answer but looking at the [link|https://dl.dell.com/topicspdf/xps-15-9550-laptop_service-manual_en-us.pdf#_OPENTOPIC_TOC_PROCESSING_d111e6046|service manual], taken from this support [link|https://www.dell.com/support/home/en-au/product-support/product/xps-15-9550-laptop/docs|webpage] for the laptop, the antennas are connected to what is called an ''antenna module'' (see p.65) and from there to the WiFi card.
Just wondering if there's a connection problem between the antenna and the module or the module and the WiFi card. Wouldn't be the first time a cable (antenna or video) was damaged where it passes through the hinge to get from the lid to the case
I realize that you said that the BT worked OK and assuming that you checked for WiFi networks operating on the 2.4GHz band that you should detect them also as BT works on the same band. I think that there are at least two antenna connections on the WiFi card (is this correct?) so maybe the WiFi needs both to function correctly and the BT only one, but this is nothing but a guess.
Did you try checking for [link|https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-switch-from-24ghz-to-5ghz-in-windows-10/|5GHz WiFi networks] just to see if there are any detected or not?
Also try downloading, installing and running this free [link|https://www.techspot.com/downloads/5936-inssider.html|WiFi sniffer program] and check if it shows any WiFi networks being detected.
The reason I suggest this is to see if it shows if there are any networks out there at all, even if they have a weak signal strength of say -85 to -100dBm. Normally networks of this strength (usually too far away) can't be connected to as their signal is considered too weak so maybe they're not even being shown as an option by Windows. If any do show up it proves that in the main the WiFi is detecting the signals but for some reason the signal may not be strong enough. Does your network SSID show up in the sniffer program network list?
You've checked the card and the software so that leaves hardware - antenna or motherboard
-
FYI usual WiFi signal strength values are as follows:
+
FYI usual WiFi signal strength values are as follows, the levels are expressed in -ve dBm. i.e the higher the number the weaker the signal:
-
-30 dBm: This is the maximum signal strength. ... -signals having this level can sometimes also cause problems as it can be too strong and can overload the WiFi card
+
-30 dBm: This is the maximum signal strength. Signals having this level can sometimes also cause problems as it can be too strong and can overload the WiFi card
-50 dBm: excellent signal strength.
-60 dBm: good signal strength.
-67 dBm: reliable signal strength.
-70 dBm: not a strong signal strength.
-80 dBm: unreliable signal strength.
-
The levels are expressed in -ve dBm. i.e the higher the number the weaker the signal
I don't know the answer but looking at the [link|https://dl.dell.com/topicspdf/xps-15-9550-laptop_service-manual_en-us.pdf#_OPENTOPIC_TOC_PROCESSING_d111e6046|service manual], taken from this support [link|https://www.dell.com/support/home/en-au/product-support/product/xps-15-9550-laptop/docs|webpage] for the laptop, the antennas are connected to what is called an ''antenna module'' (see p.65) and from there to the WiFi card.
Just wondering if there's a connection problem between the antenna and the module or the module and the WiFi card. Wouldn't be the first time a cable (antenna or video) was damaged where it passes through the hinge to get from the lid to the case
I realize that you said that the BT worked OK and assuming that you checked for WiFi networks operating on the 2.4GHz band that you should detect them also as BT works on the same band. I think that there are at least two antenna connections on the WiFi card (is this correct?) so maybe the WiFi needs both to function correctly and the BT only one, but this is nothing but a guess.
Did you try checking for [link|https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-switch-from-24ghz-to-5ghz-in-windows-10/|5GHz WiFi networks] just to see if there are any detected or not?
Also try downloading, installing and running this free [link|https://www.techspot.com/downloads/5936-inssider.html|WiFi sniffer program] and check if it shows any WiFi networks being detected.
The reason I suggest this is to see if it shows if there are any networks out there at all, even if they have a weak signal strength of say -85 to -100dBm. Normally networks of this strength (usually too far away) can't be connected to as their signal is considered too weak so maybe they're not even being shown as an option by Windows. If any do show up it proves that in the main the WiFi is detecting the signals but for some reason the signal may not be strong enough. Does your network SSID show up in the sniffer program network list?
You've checked the card and the software so that leaves hardware - antenna or motherboard
FYI usual WiFi signal strength values are as follows:
-30 dBm: This is the maximum signal strength. ... -signals having this level can sometimes also cause problems as it can be too strong and can overload the WiFi card
-
-50 dBm: This is considered an excellent signal strength.
+
-50 dBm: excellent signal strength.
-
-60 dBm: This is a good signal strength.
+
-60 dBm: good signal strength.
-
-67 dBm: This is a reliable signal strength. ...
+
-67 dBm: reliable signal strength.
-
-70 dBm: This is not a strong signal strength. ...
+
-70 dBm: not a strong signal strength.
-
-80 dBm: This is an unreliable signal strength.
+
-80 dBm: unreliable signal strength.
The levels are expressed in -ve dBm. i.e the higher the number the weaker the signal
I don't know the answer but looking at the [link|https://dl.dell.com/topicspdf/xps-15-9550-laptop_service-manual_en-us.pdf#_OPENTOPIC_TOC_PROCESSING_d111e6046|service manual], taken from this support [link|https://www.dell.com/support/home/en-au/product-support/product/xps-15-9550-laptop/docs|webpage] for the laptop, the antennas are connected to what is called an ''antenna module'' (see p.65) and from there to the WiFi card.
Just wondering if there's a connection problem between the antenna and the module or the module and the WiFi card. Wouldn't be the first time a cable (antenna or video) was damaged where it passes through the hinge to get from the lid to the case
I realize that you said that the BT worked OK and assuming that you checked for WiFi networks operating on the 2.4GHz band that you should detect them also as BT works on the same band. I think that there are at least two antenna connections on the WiFi card (is this correct?) so maybe the WiFi needs both to function correctly and the BT only one, but this is nothing but a guess.
Did you try checking for [link|https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-switch-from-24ghz-to-5ghz-in-windows-10/|5GHz WiFi networks] just to see if there are any detected or not?
Also try downloading, installing and running this free [link|https://www.techspot.com/downloads/5936-inssider.html|WiFi sniffer program] and check if it shows any WiFi networks being detected.
The reason I suggest this is to see if it shows if there are any networks out there at all, even if they have a weak signal strength of say -85 to -100dBm. Normally networks of this strength (usually too far away) can't be connected to as their signal is considered too weak so maybe they're not even being shown as an option by Windows. If any do show up it proves that in the main the WiFi is detecting the signals but for some reason the signal may not be strong enough. Does your network SSID show up in the sniffer program network list?
You've checked the card and the software so that leaves hardware - antenna or motherboard
FYI usual WiFi signal strength values are as follows:
-
-30 dBm: This is the maximum signal strength. ... -signals having this level can also cause problems as it can be too strong and can overload the WiFi card
+
-30 dBm: This is the maximum signal strength. ... -signals having this level can sometimes also cause problems as it can be too strong and can overload the WiFi card
-50 dBm: This is considered an excellent signal strength.
-60 dBm: This is a good signal strength.
-67 dBm: This is a reliable signal strength. ...
-70 dBm: This is not a strong signal strength. ...
-80 dBm: This is an unreliable signal strength.
The levels are expressed in -ve dBm. i.e the higher the number the weaker the signal
I don't know the answer but looking at the [link|https://dl.dell.com/topicspdf/xps-15-9550-laptop_service-manual_en-us.pdf#_OPENTOPIC_TOC_PROCESSING_d111e6046|service manual], taken from this support [link|https://www.dell.com/support/home/en-au/product-support/product/xps-15-9550-laptop/docs|webpage] for the laptop, the antennas are connected to what is called an ''antenna module'' (see p.65) and from there to the WiFi card.
Just wondering if there's a connection problem between the antenna and the module or the module and the WiFi card. Wouldn't be the first time a cable (antenna or video) was damaged where it passes through the hinge to get from the lid to the case
I realize that you said that the BT worked OK and assuming that you checked for WiFi networks operating on the 2.4GHz band that you should detect them also as BT works on the same band. I think that there are at least two antenna connections on the WiFi card (is this correct?) so maybe the WiFi needs both to function correctly and the BT only one, but this is nothing but a guess.
Did you try checking for [link|https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-switch-from-24ghz-to-5ghz-in-windows-10/|5GHz WiFi networks] just to see if there are any detected or not?
Also try downloading, installing and running this free [link|https://www.techspot.com/downloads/5936-inssider.html|WiFi sniffer program] and check if it shows any WiFi networks being detected.
The reason I suggest this is to see if it shows if there are any networks out there at all, even if they have a weak signal strength of say -85 to -100dBm. Normally networks of this strength (usually too far away) can't be connected to as their signal is considered too weak so maybe they're not even being shown as an option by Windows. If any do show up it proves that in the main the WiFi is detecting the signals but for some reason the signal may not be strong enough. Does your network SSID show up in the sniffer program network list?
You've checked the card and the software so that leaves hardware - antenna or motherboard
FYI usual WiFi signal strength values are as follows:
-
-30 dBm: This is the maximum signal strength. ... -signals having this level can also cause problems as it's too strong and can overload the WiFi card
+
-30 dBm: This is the maximum signal strength. ... -signals having this level can also cause problems as it can be too strong and can overload the WiFi card
-50 dBm: This is considered an excellent signal strength.
-60 dBm: This is a good signal strength.
-67 dBm: This is a reliable signal strength. ...
-70 dBm: This is not a strong signal strength. ...
-80 dBm: This is an unreliable signal strength.
The levels are expressed in -ve dBm. i.e the higher the number the weaker the signal
I don't know the answer but looking at the [link|https://dl.dell.com/topicspdf/xps-15-9550-laptop_service-manual_en-us.pdf#_OPENTOPIC_TOC_PROCESSING_d111e6046|service manual], taken from this support [link|https://www.dell.com/support/home/en-au/product-support/product/xps-15-9550-laptop/docs|webpage] for the laptop, the antennas are connected to what is called an ''antenna module'' (see p.65) and from there to the WiFi card.
Just wondering if there's a connection problem between the antenna and the module or the module and the WiFi card. Wouldn't be the first time a cable (antenna or video) was damaged where it passes through the hinge to get from the lid to the case
I realize that you said that the BT worked OK and assuming that you checked for WiFi networks operating on the 2.4GHz band that you should detect them also as BT works on the same band. I think that there are at least two antenna connections on the WiFi card (is this correct?) so maybe the WiFi needs both to function correctly and the BT only one, but this is nothing but a guess.
Did you try checking for [link|https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-switch-from-24ghz-to-5ghz-in-windows-10/|5GHz WiFi networks] just to see if there are any detected or not?
Also try downloading, installing and running this free [link|https://www.techspot.com/downloads/5936-inssider.html|WiFi sniffer program] and check if it shows any WiFi networks being detected.
The reason I suggest this is to see if it shows if there are any networks out there at all, even if they have a weak signal strength of say -85 to -100dBm. Normally networks of this strength (usually too far away) can't be connected to as their signal is considered too weak so maybe they're not even being shown as an option by Windows. If any do show up it proves that in the main the WiFi is detecting the signals but for some reason the signal may not be strong enough. Does your network SSID show up in the sniffer program network list?
-
You've checked the card and the software so that leaves hardware - antenna or motherboard i.e. from card into wherever it goes presumably the IO chipset
+
You've checked the card and the software so that leaves hardware - antenna or motherboard
FYI usual WiFi signal strength values are as follows:
-30 dBm: This is the maximum signal strength. ... -signals having this level can also cause problems as it's too strong and can overload the WiFi card
-50 dBm: This is considered an excellent signal strength.
-60 dBm: This is a good signal strength.
-67 dBm: This is a reliable signal strength. ...
-70 dBm: This is not a strong signal strength. ...
-80 dBm: This is an unreliable signal strength.
The levels are expressed in -ve dBm. i.e the higher the number the weaker the signal
I don't know the answer but looking at the [link|https://dl.dell.com/topicspdf/xps-15-9550-laptop_service-manual_en-us.pdf#_OPENTOPIC_TOC_PROCESSING_d111e6046|service manual], taken from this support [link|https://www.dell.com/support/home/en-au/product-support/product/xps-15-9550-laptop/docs|webpage] for the laptop, the antennas are connected to what is called an ''antenna module'' (see p.65) and from there to the WiFi card.
Just wondering if there's a connection problem between the antenna and the module or the module and the WiFi card. Wouldn't be the first time a cable (antenna or video) was damaged where it passes through the hinge to get from the lid to the case
I realize that you said that the BT worked OK and assuming that you checked for WiFi networks operating on the 2.4GHz band that you should detect them also as BT works on the same band. I think that there are at least two antenna connections on the WiFi card (is this correct?) so maybe the WiFi needs both to function correctly and the BT only one, but this is nothing but a guess.
Did you try checking for [link|https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-switch-from-24ghz-to-5ghz-in-windows-10/|5GHz WiFi networks] just to see if there are any detected or not?
Also try downloading, installing and running this free [link|https://www.techspot.com/downloads/5936-inssider.html|WiFi sniffer program] and check if it shows any WiFi networks being detected.
-
The reason I suggest this is to see if it shows if there there are networks out there at all, even if they have a weak signal strength of say -85 to -100dBm. Normally networks of this strength (usually too far away) can't be connected to as their signal is considered too weak so maybe they're not even being shown as an option by Windows. If any do show up it proves that in the main the WiFi is detecting the signals but for some reason the signal isn't strong enough. Does your network SSID show up in the sniffer program network list?
+
The reason I suggest this is to see if it shows if there are any networks out there at all, even if they have a weak signal strength of say -85 to -100dBm. Normally networks of this strength (usually too far away) can't be connected to as their signal is considered too weak so maybe they're not even being shown as an option by Windows. If any do show up it proves that in the main the WiFi is detecting the signals but for some reason the signal may not be strong enough. Does your network SSID show up in the sniffer program network list?
You've checked the card and the software so that leaves hardware - antenna or motherboard i.e. from card into wherever it goes presumably the IO chipset
FYI usual WiFi signal strength values are as follows:
-30 dBm: This is the maximum signal strength. ... -signals having this level can also cause problems as it's too strong and can overload the WiFi card
-50 dBm: This is considered an excellent signal strength.
-60 dBm: This is a good signal strength.
-67 dBm: This is a reliable signal strength. ...
-70 dBm: This is not a strong signal strength. ...
-80 dBm: This is an unreliable signal strength.
The levels are expressed in -ve dBm. i.e the higher the number the weaker the signal
I don't know the answer but looking at the [link|https://dl.dell.com/topicspdf/xps-15-9550-laptop_service-manual_en-us.pdf#_OPENTOPIC_TOC_PROCESSING_d111e6046|service manual], taken from this support [link|https://www.dell.com/support/home/en-au/product-support/product/xps-15-9550-laptop/docs|webpage] for the laptop, the antennas are connected to what is called an ''antenna module'' (see p.65) and from there to the WiFi card.
Just wondering if there's a connection problem between the antenna and the module or the module and the WiFi card. Wouldn't be the first time a cable (antenna or video) was damaged where it passes through the hinge to get from the lid to the case
I realize that you said that the BT worked OK and assuming that you checked for WiFi networks operating on the 2.4GHz band that you should detect them also as BT works on the same band. I think that there are at least two antenna connections on the WiFi card (is this correct?) so maybe the WiFi needs both to function correctly and the BT only one, but this is nothing but a guess.
Did you try checking for [link|https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-switch-from-24ghz-to-5ghz-in-windows-10/|5GHz WiFi networks] just to see if there are any detected or not?
-
Also try downloading, installing and running this free [https://www.techspot.com/downloads/5936-inssider.html|WiFi sniffer program] and check if it shows any WiFi networks being detected.
+
Also try downloading, installing and running this free [link|https://www.techspot.com/downloads/5936-inssider.html|WiFi sniffer program] and check if it shows any WiFi networks being detected.
-
The reason I suggest this is that it show that there are networks out there that have a weak signal strength of say -85 to -100dBm. Normally networks of this strength can't be connected to as their signal is considered too weak so maybe they're not even being shown as an option. If any do show up it proves that in the main the WiFi is detecting but for some reason the signal isn't strong enough. You've checked the card and the software so that leaves hardware - antenna or motherboard i.e. from card into wherever it goes presumably the IO chipset
+
The reason I suggest this is to see if it shows if there there are networks out there at all, even if they have a weak signal strength of say -85 to -100dBm. Normally networks of this strength (usually too far away) can't be connected to as their signal is considered too weak so maybe they're not even being shown as an option by Windows. If any do show up it proves that in the main the WiFi is detecting the signals but for some reason the signal isn't strong enough. Does your network SSID show up in the sniffer program network list?
+
+
You've checked the card and the software so that leaves hardware - antenna or motherboard i.e. from card into wherever it goes presumably the IO chipset
FYI usual WiFi signal strength values are as follows:
-30 dBm: This is the maximum signal strength. ... -signals having this level can also cause problems as it's too strong and can overload the WiFi card
-50 dBm: This is considered an excellent signal strength.
-60 dBm: This is a good signal strength.
-67 dBm: This is a reliable signal strength. ...
-70 dBm: This is not a strong signal strength. ...
-80 dBm: This is an unreliable signal strength.
The levels are expressed in -ve dBm. i.e the higher the number the weaker the signal
I don't know the answer but looking at the [link|https://dl.dell.com/topicspdf/xps-15-9550-laptop_service-manual_en-us.pdf#_OPENTOPIC_TOC_PROCESSING_d111e6046|service manual], taken from this support [link|https://www.dell.com/support/home/en-au/product-support/product/xps-15-9550-laptop/docs|webpage] for the laptop, the antennas are connected to what is called an ''antenna module'' (see p.65) and from there to the WiFi card.
Just wondering if there's a connection problem between the antenna and the module or the module and the WiFi card. Wouldn't be the first time a cable (antenna or video) was damaged where it passes through the hinge to get from the lid to the case
I realize that you said that the BT worked OK and assuming that you checked for WiFi networks operating on the 2.4GHz band that you should detect them also as BT works on the same band. I think that there are at least two antenna connections on the WiFi card (is this correct?) so maybe the WiFi needs both to function correctly and the BT only one, but this is nothing but a guess.
Did you try checking for [link|https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-switch-from-24ghz-to-5ghz-in-windows-10/|5GHz WiFi networks] just to see if there are any detected or not?
-
Also try downloading, installing and running this free [https://www.techspot.com/downloads/5936-inssider.html|WiFi sniffer program} and check if it shows any WiFi networks being detected.
+
Also try downloading, installing and running this free [https://www.techspot.com/downloads/5936-inssider.html|WiFi sniffer program] and check if it shows any WiFi networks being detected.
The reason I suggest this is that it show that there are networks out there that have a weak signal strength of say -85 to -100dBm. Normally networks of this strength can't be connected to as their signal is considered too weak so maybe they're not even being shown as an option. If any do show up it proves that in the main the WiFi is detecting but for some reason the signal isn't strong enough. You've checked the card and the software so that leaves hardware - antenna or motherboard i.e. from card into wherever it goes presumably the IO chipset
FYI usual WiFi signal strength values are as follows:
-30 dBm: This is the maximum signal strength. ... -signals having this level can also cause problems as it's too strong and can overload the WiFi card
-50 dBm: This is considered an excellent signal strength.
-60 dBm: This is a good signal strength.
-67 dBm: This is a reliable signal strength. ...
-70 dBm: This is not a strong signal strength. ...
-80 dBm: This is an unreliable signal strength.
The levels are expressed in -ve dBm. i.e the higher the number the weaker the signal
I don't know the answer but looking at the [link|https://dl.dell.com/topicspdf/xps-15-9550-laptop_service-manual_en-us.pdf#_OPENTOPIC_TOC_PROCESSING_d111e6046|service manual], taken from this support [link|https://www.dell.com/support/home/en-au/product-support/product/xps-15-9550-laptop/docs|webpage] for the laptop, the antennas are connected to what is called an ''antenna module'' (see p.65) and from there to the WiFi card.
Just wondering if there's a connection problem between the antenna and the module or the module and the WiFi card. Wouldn't be the first time a cable (antenna or video) was damaged where it passes through the hinge to get from the lid to the case
I realize that you said that the BT worked OK and assuming that you checked for WiFi networks operating on the 2.4GHz band that you should detect them also as BT works on the same band. I think that there are at least two antenna connections on the WiFi card (is this correct?) so maybe the WiFi needs both to function correctly and the BT only one, but this is nothing but a guess.
Did you try checking for [link|https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-switch-from-24ghz-to-5ghz-in-windows-10/|5GHz WiFi networks] just to see if there are any detected or not?
Also try downloading, installing and running this free [https://www.techspot.com/downloads/5936-inssider.html|WiFi sniffer program} and check if it shows any WiFi networks being detected.
-
The reason I suggest this is that it may pick up networks that have a signal strength of say -80 to -90bDm. Normally networks of this strength can't be connected to as their signal is too weak so maybe they're not even being shown as an option.
+
The reason I suggest this is that it show that there are networks out there that have a weak signal strength of say -85 to -100dBm. Normally networks of this strength can't be connected to as their signal is considered too weak so maybe they're not even being shown as an option. If any do show up it proves that in the main the WiFi is detecting but for some reason the signal isn't strong enough. You've checked the card and the software so that leaves hardware - antenna or motherboard i.e. from card into wherever it goes presumably the IO chipset
-
WiFi signal strength are as follows:
+
FYI usual WiFi signal strength values are as follows:
-
-30 dBm: This is the maximum signal strength. ...
+
-30 dBm: This is the maximum signal strength. ... -signals having this level can also cause problems as it's too strong and can overload the WiFi card
-50 dBm: This is considered an excellent signal strength.
-60 dBm: This is a good signal strength.
-67 dBm: This is a reliable signal strength. ...
-70 dBm: This is not a strong signal strength. ...
-80 dBm: This is an unreliable signal strength.
The levels are expressed in -ve dBm. i.e the higher the number the weaker the signal
I don't know the answer but looking at the [link|https://dl.dell.com/topicspdf/xps-15-9550-laptop_service-manual_en-us.pdf#_OPENTOPIC_TOC_PROCESSING_d111e6046|service manual], taken from this support [link|https://www.dell.com/support/home/en-au/product-support/product/xps-15-9550-laptop/docs|webpage] for the laptop, the antennas are connected to what is called an ''antenna module'' (see p.65) and from there to the WiFi card.
Just wondering if there's a connection problem between the antenna and the module or the module and the WiFi card. Wouldn't be the first time a cable (antenna or video) was damaged where it passes through the hinge to get from the lid to the case
I realize that you said that the BT worked OK and assuming that you checked for WiFi networks operating on the 2.4GHz band that you should detect them also as BT works on the same band. I think that there are at least two antenna connections on the WiFi card (is this correct?) so maybe the WiFi needs both to function correctly and the BT only one, but this is nothing but a guess.
Did you try checking for [link|https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-switch-from-24ghz-to-5ghz-in-windows-10/|5GHz WiFi networks] just to see if there are any detected or not?
-
Also try downloading, installing and running this free https://www.techspot.com/downloads/5936-inssider.html|WiFi sniffer program} and check if it shows any WiFi networks being detected.
+
Also try downloading, installing and running this free [https://www.techspot.com/downloads/5936-inssider.html|WiFi sniffer program} and check if it shows any WiFi networks being detected.
The reason I suggest this is that it may pick up networks that have a signal strength of say -80 to -90bDm. Normally networks of this strength can't be connected to as their signal is too weak so maybe they're not even being shown as an option.
WiFi signal strength are as follows:
-30 dBm: This is the maximum signal strength. ...
-50 dBm: This is considered an excellent signal strength.
-60 dBm: This is a good signal strength.
-67 dBm: This is a reliable signal strength. ...
-70 dBm: This is not a strong signal strength. ...
-80 dBm: This is an unreliable signal strength.
The levels are expressed in -ve dBm. i.e the higher the number the weaker the signal
I don't know the answer but looking at the [link|https://dl.dell.com/topicspdf/xps-15-9550-laptop_service-manual_en-us.pdf#_OPENTOPIC_TOC_PROCESSING_d111e6046|service manual], taken from this support [link|https://www.dell.com/support/home/en-au/product-support/product/xps-15-9550-laptop/docs|webpage] for the laptop, the antennas are connected to what is called an ''antenna module'' (see p.65) and from there to the WiFi card.
Just wondering if there's a connection problem between the antenna and the module or the module and the WiFi card. Wouldn't be the first time a cable (antenna or video) was damaged where it passes through the hinge to get from the lid to the case
I realize that you said that the BT worked OK and assuming that you checked for WiFi networks operating on the 2.4GHz band that you should detect them also as BT works on the same band. I think that there are at least two antenna connections on the WiFi card (is this correct?) so maybe the WiFi needs both to function correctly and the BT only one, but this is nothing but a guess.
Did you try checking for [link|https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-switch-from-24ghz-to-5ghz-in-windows-10/|5GHz WiFi networks] just to see if there are any detected or not?
+
Also try downloading, installing and running this free https://www.techspot.com/downloads/5936-inssider.html|WiFi sniffer program} and check if it shows any WiFi networks being detected.
+
+
The reason I suggest this is that it may pick up networks that have a signal strength of say -80 to -90bDm. Normally networks of this strength can't be connected to as their signal is too weak so maybe they're not even being shown as an option.
+
+
WiFi signal strength are as follows:
+
+
-30 dBm: This is the maximum signal strength. ...
+
+
-50 dBm: This is considered an excellent signal strength.
+
+
-60 dBm: This is a good signal strength.
+
+
-67 dBm: This is a reliable signal strength. ...
+
+
-70 dBm: This is not a strong signal strength. ...
+
+
-80 dBm: This is an unreliable signal strength.
+
+
The levels are expressed in -ve dBm. i.e the higher the number the weaker the signal
I don't know the answer but looking at the [link|https://dl.dell.com/topicspdf/xps-15-9550-laptop_service-manual_en-us.pdf#_OPENTOPIC_TOC_PROCESSING_d111e6046|service manual], taken from this support [link|https://www.dell.com/support/home/en-au/product-support/product/xps-15-9550-laptop/docs|webpage] for the laptop, the antennas are connected to what is called an ''antenna module'' (see p.65) and from there to the WiFi card.
Just wondering if there's a connection problem between the antenna and the module or the module and the WiFi card. Wouldn't be the first time a cable (antenna or video) was damaged where it passes through the hinge to get from the lid to the case
I realize that you said that the BT worked OK and assuming that you checked for WiFi networks operating on the 2.4GHz band that you should detect them also as BT works on the same band. I think that there are at least two antenna connections on the WiFi card (is this correct?) so maybe the WiFi needs both to function correctly and the BT only one, but this is nothing but a guess.
Did you try checking for [link|https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-switch-from-24ghz-to-5ghz-in-windows-10/|5GHz WiFi networks] just to see if there are any detected or not?
I don't know the answer but looking at the [https://dl.dell.com/topicspdf/xps-15-9550-laptop_service-manual_en-us.pdf#_OPENTOPIC_TOC_PROCESSING_d111e6046|service manual], taken from this support [https://www.dell.com/support/home/en-au/product-support/product/xps-15-9550-laptop/docs|webpage] for the laptop, the antennas are connected to what is called an ''antenna module'' (see p.65) and from there to the WiFi card.
+
I don't know the answer but looking at the [link|https://dl.dell.com/topicspdf/xps-15-9550-laptop_service-manual_en-us.pdf#_OPENTOPIC_TOC_PROCESSING_d111e6046|service manual], taken from this support [link|https://www.dell.com/support/home/en-au/product-support/product/xps-15-9550-laptop/docs|webpage] for the laptop, the antennas are connected to what is called an ''antenna module'' (see p.65) and from there to the WiFi card.
-
Just wondering if there's a connection problem between the antenna and the module or the module and the WiFi card.
+
Just wondering if there's a connection problem between the antenna and the module or the module and the WiFi card. Wouldn't be the first time a cable (antenna or video) was damaged where it passes through the hinge to get from the lid to the case
I realize that you said that the BT worked OK and assuming that you checked for WiFi networks operating on the 2.4GHz band that you should detect them also as BT works on the same band. I think that there are at least two antenna connections on the WiFi card (is this correct?) so maybe the WiFi needs both to function correctly and the BT only one, but this is nothing but a guess.
-
Did you try checking for [https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-switch-from-24ghz-to-5ghz-in-windows-10/|5GHz WiFi networks] just to see if there are any detected or not?
+
Did you try checking for [link|https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-switch-from-24ghz-to-5ghz-in-windows-10/|5GHz WiFi networks] just to see if there are any detected or not?
Hi @erelectronics
I don't know the answer but looking at the [https://dl.dell.com/topicspdf/xps-15-9550-laptop_service-manual_en-us.pdf#_OPENTOPIC_TOC_PROCESSING_d111e6046|service manual], taken from this support [https://www.dell.com/support/home/en-au/product-support/product/xps-15-9550-laptop/docs|webpage] for the laptop, the antennas are connected to what is called an ''antenna module'' (see p.65) and from there to the WiFi card.
Just wondering if there's a connection problem between the antenna and the module or the module and the WiFi card.
I realize that you said that the BT worked OK and assuming that you checked for WiFi networks operating on the 2.4GHz band that you should detect them also as BT works on the same band. I think that there are at least two antenna connections on the WiFi card (is this correct?) so maybe the WiFi needs both to function correctly and the BT only one, but this is nothing but a guess.
Did you try checking for [https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-switch-from-24ghz-to-5ghz-in-windows-10/|5GHz WiFi networks] just to see if there are any detected or not?