Cannot see wireless networks

[Ric_]

This laptop is a Dell Latitude D505 with an Intel PRO/Wireless 2100 A3 wifi chipset and, as of a couple of days ago, it has become blind to wireless networks

I have swapped the mini-PCI card and tried different drivers to no avail. The WZC service is running and swapping to the PRO/Set utility also gives no results.

I have also tried a 3COM Wireless 11a/b/g PC Card which displays the same behaviour.

Neither Intel or 3COM cards showed any networks in NetStumbler either.

I have installed SP3 to see if that helped... it didn't. It is clearly a problem with the Windows but I want to avoid a rebuild is possible. HELP!

[Michael]

And does the 3COM card work in other laptops with no problems?

The only other thing that comes to mind is what channel the Access Point is broadcasting on. I believe European channels go upto 13, but with most devices manufactured abroad they only see upto channel 11, so the laptop is blind to the network as you describe.

[kmount]

This might be worth a go?

[Ric_]

It gets a bit stranger... my BlueSocket network had clearly thrown a wobbler and others could not get on too. That now works though.

After much refreshing, prodding, encouragement, etc. the laptop can now see networks but not connect (i.e. acquire an IP).

Other laptops are fine. The channels are within range and my hammer is at the ready!

The TCP stack seems to function perfectly for wired communications.

[Ric_]

It's really been one of those days!

Right... swapped the mini-PCI card again, rebooted and now it works better than ever! What's that about eh?

[Michael]

Really strange. Generally speaking when a laptop can see the network but not connect, it's because the security information (WEP key for example) is incorrect. You'd also find the laptop wouldn't get an IP from DHCP either. Glad you got it sorted though.