WiFi switch

[barspi]

I've been meaning to ask this for some time.
The HEL80 supposedly has a WiFi switch on the front, next to the media card reader.
Well, it doesn't work on mine... I mean, the WiFi is always on... maybe I have a loose wire or something inside? I'm using Linux, but I'm almost sure that the only time I booted Windows, like 10 days ago, it also did not work. There's also a Fn-F2 key combination that, according to the icon on the F2 would accomplish the same function but I guess I need drivers for that?
Anyway, the switch on the front should be a HARDWARE switch if this world hasn't gone crazy enough so it should work in any O.S. Am I missing something?
I still haven't opened my virignal new machine more than enough to check the hard drive, memory, etc... so I want to ask first :-)

[chrisyano]

The switch has an orange LED that indicates whether the WiFi is on or off. It is possible that if you're using Linux though, that it's not supported. But it should work like a power switch in Windows.

Contact your reseller and see what they have to say about this.

[paladin44]

The only way to test it properly is in Windows. Please boot in to Windows again and if the hardware switch does not work, call our 24/7 Tech Support or email Support@PowerNotebooks.com

[barspi]

ok now i'm in windows. same behavior.
The switch (and Fn-F2) don't work.
It's not extremely important... but sometimes it may be useful to suddenly disconnect in a hard way.. like you discover someone is trying to hack you through wifi.

[chrisyano]

I suggest you call PowerNotebooks Tech support. They can help you diagnose the problem and are available 24/7 to all of their customers.

[barspi]

I will, I will... as soon as I finish this project and find time to do it :-)
Plus, I'm in South America so I have to install my VoIP ATA to call to the US.
And GMT-2 so there's like 7 hour difference hahaha..
I've talked to Donald a few times in the past, this is my second computer from them!
I know they will try their best to help me.

[djtecha]

can i ASK what wireless card you jave, because it might have something to do with it not being intel.

[barspi]

It's the standard Intel 3945 that comes standard with this notebook. Nothing fancy.
I think it probably a loose wire or the inner piece of the switch that it's loose.
I'll call PowerNotebooks as soon as I find the time.
It's not a terribly urgent matter, and I have the 3-year warranty :-)

[Pitabred]

with the HEL-80 I had for a few minutes, the front hardware switch only controlled the bluetooth as far as I could tell.

[pyro9219]

with the HEL-80 I had for a few minutes, the front hardware switch only controlled the bluetooth as far as I could tell.

It controls both if you have both the wireless card (intel atleast) and the bluetooth...

Also works in linux..