Can I install an Internal Bluetooth Module in this Laptop without any Problems?

[zyx410]

Hi there,


I just purchased an HP Pavilion 17-e186nr (specs) and found out that this model has no Bluetooth. However, after looking through its user guide it says on page 52 under the WLAN Module subheading in the component replacement procedures section:

"Ralink RT3290LE 802.11b/g/n 1×1 WiFi and Bluetooth 4.0 Combo Adapter for use on all
computer models"

I have found the Ralink RT3290LE on eBay. If I was to purchase this for my laptop, can I simply replace the existing WLAN module and install the official drivers and expect to have both the WiFi and Bluetooth working? Or has Bluetooth been left out of this model because it lacks a certain component somewhere else?

I would much rather buy and install an internal module than have one of the USB Bluetooth dongles, however if this will not work I will have to buy one of them.


Any help would be Appreciated. Thanks!

 

[photonboy]

My guess is it SHOULD work since it's plugging directly into the PCIe bus so should respond like any typical card does thus just needing drivers.

I'd like a second opinion but I can't think of a good reason why not, assuming you can locate the proper drivers (they may be part of Windows already).

*I suggest you open your laptop to ensure it can physically be installed.

FYI, the Bluetooth USB adapters come in really small sizes so don't really stick out much. I'd recommend doing it that way rather than open up your laptop.

 

[zyx410]

Yeah I thought it made sense too after looking through the user guide, just awaiting confirmation because I don't want to order a part that will not solve my problem. And yes drivers are readly available from HP's support website. Thanks for your contribution!

 

[photonboy]

Yeah I thought it made sense too after looking through the user guide, just awaiting confirmation because I don't want to order a part that will not solve my problem. Thanks for your contribution!

I did update my post.

THIS one is $8 and feedback indicates it works fine:
http://www.amazon.com/Kinivo-BTD-300-Bluetooth-3-0-adapter/dp/B005Z5HT2M/ref=sr_1_6?s=pc&ie=UTF8&qid=1416385358&sr=1-6&keywords=bluetooth+usb

 

[Paul NZ]

Depends. I tried replacing something once. Something that wasnt HP approved

After I installed it, it wouldnt boot into windows. Because it didn't support it.

On some HP laptops if it doesnt support it (because of the BIOS whitelist they call it / its like a restricted list of what you cant install on their laptops), you wont be able to boot into windows. It'll stop near the post screen

In the end I had to find a BIOS hack to fix it.It removes this whitelist / restriction

So i could put whatever I wanted into the slot

 

[zyx410]

Yeah I thought it made sense too after looking through the user guide, just awaiting confirmation because I don't want to order a part that will not solve my problem. Thanks for your contribution!

I did update my post.

Oh right sorry I didn't refresh as I was writing. It is suprisingly easy to be installed, just need to unscrew and take of the service cover. Yeah I was considering a dongle but I would rather not have another usb port being taken up as it would leave me with only one that would be free to use which I frequently use for charging devices.... 🙁

 

[zyx410]

Depends. I tried replacing something once. Something that wasnt HP approved

After I installed it, it wouldnt boot into windows. Because it didn't support it.

On some HP laptops if it doesnt support it (because of the BIOS whitelist they call it / its like a restricted list of what you cant install on their laptops), you wont be able to boot into windows. It'll stop near the post screen

In the end I had to find a BIOS hack to fix it.It removes this whitelist / restriction

So i could put whatever I wanted into the slot

Well assuming that I buy an HP approved part that works with the laptop (which, according to the pdf, should be approved) do you think that the Bluetooth will work once the correct drivers are installed? Like is it possible for the Bluetooth feature of the new module to interfere or not operate because of another component (or lack of a component like an antenna if Bluetooth devices require them?)?