Adding a Sierra Wireless EM7355 4G modem

Hi @batlips ,

I don’t think that it is compatible.

Looking at the hardware maintenance manual for the laptop, there is a sata slot and an M.2 slot for storage devices.

Looking online at images of M.2 SSDs that are compatible with the laptop, the laptop’s M.2 slot may be keyed for B + M keyed devices.

If this is the case, since the Sierra Wireless EM7355 4G modem is keyed for an M key slot only, it won’t insert. You may want to verify this by checking the keying of the M.2 slot in the laptop.

B + M devices will insert into an M keyed slot but not vise versa i.e. an M keyed device will not insert into a B + M keyed slot.

If it is compatible then you will be losing an SSD to install the modem.

The usual precautions apply when working inside a laptop:

Remove or disconnect the battery as soon as it is accessible after opening the laptop (if the battery is internal). There is always power on the motherboard somewhere, even when the laptop is turned off. The Power button is not a power isolating button. You don’t want to accidentally touch something with tools etc, that may still have power on it and cause electrical problems in the laptop. This forum is full of questions by users who left the battery connected when working on electronic devices and then found out it didn’t work afterwards due to electrically damaged components.

Wear a wrist strap connected to an earth point, to avoid any ESD damage to any of the components due to you touching them. Try not to touch anything that you don’t have to, inside the laptop.

Keep some jars handy for storing and sorting the screws that are removed in the disassembly process. If any screws are longer, shorter than others etc, mark where they go. It amazing how far screws can bounce when they hit the floor ;-)

If unplugging internal cables, study how they are secured first, in case of latches, locking bars etc. Do not just yank them out by the wires.

Take your time and don’t rush it