EM7565 and WG3526 build questions

[luigiman]

I'm putting together the EM7565 and WG3526, but before I turn it on I wanted to make sure I don't fry the EM7565. The screw I'm using to hold the PCI-E To M.2 to the WG3526 board, is touching the bottom of the EM7565, is this going to cause any issues?

Also, is it normal to feel like the MHF4 connectors are going to fall off at the slightest shake? It took me hours just to get them somewhat attached, but they still feel like they can easily detach.

[JimHelms]

I'm putting together the EM7565 and WG3526, but before I turn it on I wanted to make sure I don't fry the EM7565. The screw I'm using to hold the PCI-E To M.2 to the WG3526 board, is touching the bottom of the EM7565, is this going to cause any issues?

I would not chance it touching the modem. Most people use M2.5 x 8mm Wafer Head Machine Screws mounted thru the top of the adapter and down thru the PCB with the M2.5 nut on the bottom of the PCB.

We have been meaning to offer a kit for these installations. On orders where the Mini PCI-e to M.2 adapter, router and modem are ordered from the store, we generally try to include a complementary set with the order.

Also, is it normal to feel like the MHF4 connectors are going to fall off at the slightest shake? It took me hours just to get them somewhat attached, but they still feel like they can easily detach.

The MHF4 connectors are terribly hard to work with, especially for people (like me) whose eye sight is less than optimal. If not perfectly aligned during installation, it can damage the pigtail connector and/or the modem connector port. I have a desktop mounted magnifying glass (with a built in light) that I use to install these connectors.

I also use a small kabob (sharpened some what with a pencil sharpener) or a chop stick (both with the ends sanded perfectly flat) to help apply even pressure on the connector top. They are small so it leaves room to actually see the connector and port alignment.

And, yes, I have seen the MHF4 connectors where they appeared to be installed on the modem but also appeared loose. When I encounter this situation (which mostly happens after repeated attempts to install a misaligned or tilted connector), I generally replace it with a new one. This is especially true if the router will be moved from time to time.

And, I have went so far as to get the pigtail connector laid/twisted exactly in place, and use a strip of duct tape to secure that position. Then, I remove the modem from the router/adapter and use a hot glue gun to secure connector to the modem, both sides of the connector, and underneath. There will be those that says, "you glue what" but I have never had an issue. In fact, I do this on a regular basis when the router/modem will be installed outdoors in an external antenna or enclosure--whether its a MHF4 or U.FL connector--since it can be difficult to gain access to once installed.

[luigiman]

I would not chance it touching the modem. Most people use M2.5 x 8mm Wafer Head Machine Screws mounted thru the top of the adapter and down thru the PCB with the M2.5 nut on the bottom of the PCB.

We have been meaning to offer a kit for these installations. On orders where the Mini PCI-e to M.2 adapter, router and modem are ordered from the store, we generally try to include a complementary set with the order.

I think I got one of those complementary sets, but it didn't seem like the wafer head screw would reach through the adapter to the PCB, I'll have to measure it when I get home to see what size it was. And on that note, is it correct to install the modem on the adapter, screw->modem->nut(this also touches the bottom, but I thought maybe it was made specifically to touch the bottom of the modem)->adapter?

I also use a small kabob (sharpened some what with a pencil sharpener) or a chop stick (both with the ends sanded perfectly flat) to help apply even pressure on the connector top. They are small so it leaves room to actually see the connector and port alignment.

I'll have to try this if they do come loose.

And, yes, I have seen the MHF4 connectors where they appeared to be installed on the modem but also appeared loose. When I encounter this situation (which mostly happens after repeated attempts to install a misaligned or tilted connector), I generally replace it with a new one. This is especially true if the router will be moved from time to time.

Is it possible for them to get damaged on the modem side? Or is it usually this piece that needs replacing?

[luigiman]

Update on this, I measured the wafer head screw that was included, and it does seem to be the 8mm one, but it won't reach through the PCB to put the nut on with the spacer there. Is there something I'm missing here?

[JimHelms]

Update on this, I measured the wafer head screw that was included, and it does seem to be the 8mm one, but it won't reach through the PCB to put the nut on with the spacer there. Is there something I'm missing here?

You are right. I just tested one. They need to be a little longer for the WG3526.

You should be able to use the two OEM screws and the m2.5 nut on bottom of the PCB. May have to cut off any access if they hit the router case.

[OregonLTE]

Hey how did this build turn out and how is it running? I just ordered mine today and am looking forward to putting it together!