Wireless network hardware switch off by default

[Andie]

Issue: NEC Versa P550 (old laptop!) being recommissioned as a spare, with Intel mini-PCIcard PRO/Wirelss 2200BG, op sys XP Professional. When powered up and logged in, wireless hardware switch is off by default. No physical switch. Have to use Fn+F2. Would like wireless hardware switch on by default.

 

Have tried: BIOS update and Intel PRO update from NEC, and extensive internet search for this issue. All documentation says use the hardware switch!

 

Nothing in BIOS that automatically enables wireless card to be on, unless I can see anything.

 

Am I stuck with putting a sticker on for teachers saying please hold down Fn and press F2 to connect to wireless? This may cause issues with the running of the login script anyway if the wireless isn't on in time.

[Andie]

Anyone??

[Flakes]

normally a bios setting, just enter bios on bootup and check its enabled

[Andie]

There was nothing in BIOS, even after updating. I've fixed it by a step sideways. There was a wireless card port on the Versa (not sure why, as it obviously had onboard..). Disabled the onboard. Had some old but unused wireless cardbus cards, installed the drivers, inserted the card, various reboots, and away we go! Worth the climb to the top shelf of the IT cupboard.