Introduction
Follow this guide to remove and replace the Wi-Fi module in your Framework Laptop 16.
The Wi-Fi module is a modular card that enables Wi-Fi and Bluetooth functions. While the Framework Laptop 16 works with M.2 2230 Wi-Fi cards, Framework recommends replacing it with the same model of card that the system originally came with.
The Wi-Fi module has delicate antenna connectors. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully to avoid damaging them.
Tools
Parts
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Unplug all cables and fully shut down your laptop.
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Use your fingernail to pull out the two Input Module latches and unlock them.
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The latch will show red if it's unlocked.
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Use your fingers to slide the Touchpad Spacer toward the bottom edge of the laptop and unclip it.
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If you're having trouble, check if the corresponding Input Module latch is properly unlocked.
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Lift the Touchpad Spacer off the laptop and remove it.
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Repeat the same procedure for the other touchpad spacer.
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Use your fingers to slide the Touchpad Module toward the bottom edge of the laptop and disconnect it.
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If you're having trouble, check if the Input Module latches are properly unlocked.
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Lift the Touchpad Module and remove it.
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The keyboard is held in place with strong magnets. Apply gradually increasing force to avoid having the keyboard violently eject.
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Grip the two pull tabs along the bottom of the keyboard and lift until its magnets release.
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Remove the keyboard.
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Your Input Module(s) might be different, but the procedure to remove them is the same.
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Grip the pull tab at the bottom of the Input Module and lift until its magnets release.
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Remove the Input Module.
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Repeat for any remaining Input Modules.
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Grip the black pull tab on the Mid Plate cable press connector and lift up to disconnect it.
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The Mid Plate screws are ordered from 2–17 (number 1 is the press connector). You don't have to follow the order, but you can use it to help keep track of the screws you've loosened.
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Use your Framework Screwdriver to loosen the 16 captive T5 Torx screws securing the Mid Plate.
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Use your fingers to lift the Mid Plate off the laptop and remove it.
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Use your Framework Screwdriver to loosen the captive T5 Torx screw securing Wi-Fi module.
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The module might pop up at a shallow angle when you loosen the screw.
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Slide the clear plastic cover straight off the module and remove it.
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While holding the Wi-Fi module down, insert the flat end of your Framework Screwdriver under one of the coaxial connectors, where the cable meets the metal head.
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Lift the screwdriver straight up to disconnect the coaxial cable.
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Repeat for the other coaxial cable.
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Grip the end of the Wi-Fi Module with the screw hole and slide it out of its socket.
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Remove the Wi-Fi Module.
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Congratulations on completing disassembly! The remaining steps will show how to reassemble your Framework Laptop.
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Hold the Wi-Fi module by its edges. Don't touch the gold contacts with your fingers. If you do, wipe the contacts with a clean, lint-free cloth to remove any finger oils.
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Align the Wi-Fi module's gold contacts and notch with the socket on the Mainboard.
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Insert the Wi-Fi module into the socket at a shallow angle. The gold contacts should mostly be covered by the socket.
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The Wi-Fi module fits into the socket in one orientation. If it doesn't fit, try flipping the module.
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Hold the Wi-Fi module down with your finger.
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Position the white antenna cable connector over the left Wi-Fi module's coaxial socket.
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If you're unsure which cable goes where, refer to the arrows on the Wi-Fi module for which color cable matches with its connector.
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Tweezers can help position the connector.
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Use your finger to press the connector into place. You should feel a faint click, and the cable will stay attached to the socket by itself.
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These connectors are very delicate! If the connector doesn't feel like it's clicking in place, reposition the connector and try again.
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Repeat the procedure with the black antenna cable.
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Slide the clear plastic cover on the module and align its screw with the screw hole cutout.
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Use your Framework Screwdriver to tighten the captive T5 Torx screw securing Wi-Fi module.
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Place the Mid Plate on the laptop, making sure it sits evenly on its alignment pegs.
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Use your Framework Screwdriver to tighten the 16 captive T5 Torx screws in order (starting with 2) to secure the Mid Plate evenly.
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Align the Mid Plate cable press connector over its socket and press down to connect it.
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Your Input Module(s) might be different, but the procedure to remove them is the same.
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Align the top edge of the Input Module with the top edge of the laptop.
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Lay the Input Module on the laptop and let the magnets pull the keyboard into place
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Make sure the Input Module is seated properly on its alignment pegs and sits flush with the edges of the laptop.
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Repeat for any remaining Input Modules.
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Align the top edge of the keyboard with the top edge of the laptop.
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Lay the keyboard on the laptop and let the magnets pull the keyboard into place
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Make sure the keyboard is seated properly on its alignment pegs and sits flush with the edges of the laptop.
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Place the Touchpad Module flat on its cutout so its clips are properly aligned.
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Press the Touchpad Module down and slide it into place so it lines up evenly with the bottom edge of the laptop.
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Place the Touchpad Spacer over its spot on the laptop with the bottom edge overhanging slightly.
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Slide the Touchpad Spacer towards the top of the laptop to secure it.
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Repeat the same procedure for the other Touchpad Spacer.
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Push the Input Module latches back into place to lock them.
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If you need help, contact Framework support.
If you need help, contact Framework support.