Introduction
Use this guide to learn how to replace the wireless Local Area Network (LAN) modules in the Nintendo Wii U. This includes the Broadcom 2878D-MICB2 Wireless 2.4Ghz Module and Broadcom 2878D-WINB2 Bluetooth 4.0 Module. This guide requires careful attention to the circuit boards, internal components, and adhesives during disassembly. Use of the tools listed will aid in this guide.
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Locate the black or white stickers on the underside of the unit. A spudger will be used to remove these stickers to revel 9 screws.
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Remove the CMOS battery door on the left side of the console.
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Remove the three Y1 Tri-Wing screws.
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Rotate the device so that the front plate is facing you.
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Remove the two Phillips #1 screws that connect the front plate to each side of the device.
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Remove the fan with a Phillips #1 by unscrewing the two connecting screws on both sides of the fan. The fan’s wires will still be attached to the motherboard as it is permanently affixed.
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Using a Phillips #0 screwdriver, unscrew the four screws (two on each side) from the disc reader connecting it to the main console and remove disc reader.
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Unscrew and remove the heatsink. You will have to carefully move the antenna cables out of the way in order to remove the heatsink shielding.
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Using a Phillips #1 unscrew all floor screws connecting the outer plate from the circuit board to remove the circuit board.
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Using a Phillips #1 unscrew the 4 screws securing the heatsink to the motherboard and remove the heatsink.
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Locate the screws lining the perimeter of the motherboard that you will remove with a Phillips #1 screwdriver. Once they are unscrewed, the motherboard should easily separate from the lower tray.
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Once the motherboard is detached, flip it over to view the wireless modules.
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To reassemble your device, follow these instructions in reverse order.
7 comments
GamePad module is model: MIC-B2 (5GHz) (BCM43237KMLG).
WiFi module is model: WIN-A2 (2.4GHz) (BCM43362KUBG).
Bluetooth module is model: WIN-B2 (BCM20702).
Great guide with clear pictures!
Question: Does the Wii U operate correctly without WiFi and without Bluetooth modules? Of course, no connection can be established thru these modules when they were removed, but, does all the other stuff work correctly and you can play your games as usual?
I am thinking you wouldn't be able to use any controllers if you did so because of their reliance on the Bluetooth module, no? I am not sure if the Gamepad controller uses only 5GHz wifi only or Bluetooth too
So after wasting quite a bit of my life looking for these parts. Here are the part numbers that you should type into the good ole Google machine or Ebay if you are looking to purchase these parts.
GamePad module (5GHz) : 2878D-MIC-B2
WiFi module (2.4GHz) Part number is: 2878D-WIN-A2
Bluetooth module Part number is: 2878D-WIN-B2