Toshiba laptop problem

Hi, ive got hold of a second hand laptop which is a toshiba satellite pro 4600 and am having problems getting the wifi connection to work. I ahave downloaded the latest driver etc but cant seem to work out how to set it up to use wifi. Does anyone have a similar machine that could maybe point out where i am going wrong.

Cheers

What wireless adapter do you have? Brand? PCMCIA? USB?

Its built in to the computer as far as im aware.

Check the BIOS if you haven't already - it might be disabled there.

You sure? I've just checked and there are a couple of different variations on the Pro 4600 spec - some have wifi, some don't.

If yours does it will only be 802.11b. If your wireless router is set to 802.11g only then it won't be able to connect.

If you go into Network Connections you should see Local Area Connection, and Wireless Connection. right-click it and choose "View Wireless Networks".

Yeah, I noticed that too GFK, but this laptop does have a wifi on/off switch. But ive checked the network connections as you have sugested and there isnt a wireless connection listed, so maybe it isnt present. But as you say even if it is fitted the protocal will prob be different so i'll just have to use a cable.

Thanks for the advice all

Do you have a wireless adapter listed under "Network adapters" in Device Manager?

Not necessarily - there's nothing to stop you using a third-party PCMCIA or USB wireless adapter. I'd recommend D-Link or Netgear as reliable and affordable. Avoid Edimax.

No there's no adapter listed in device manager.

Using a PCMCIA adapter is a possibility as you say, it might well be worth investing a few quid in one. Thanks for your recommendations, I will bear that in mind.

Just seems a bit strange to me that there is a switch on the laptop if there is no adapter fitted.

you haven't said if you checked the bios?

I had one of those (I think it was that model). I think all had the switch, but only some had the wifi capability!!

Even so the wifi was 'glitchy'...
Personally I'd recommend a pcmcia card over the wifi in the earlier toshes.