Hi Jerry, Thanks for the information.  I'm bumping this and adding some tags so that others can see what you found out.   Todd
I tried to post this on an existing thread, but in case this helps anyone else, I had purchased a new laptop that had poor wifi signal performance.  You could see the signal just bounce up and down on the taskbar indicator.  Also internet browsing would give the "unable to find server" message.  Adapter would show poor connection, speed reduced down to 11 mb.  When the laptop was moved close to the wireless modem, things would work better.  (moved like within 3 feet)  Turns out that the antennae wires were disconnected from the wireless card in back.  There are two screws that hold the plastic cover on,  and once open  a 3rd screw that holds a little bracket which secures the wires.  It's very easy to check.  Both of mine were disconnected! Anyway, tried to post this in the thread below but maybe too old, it also has a few good tips: [URL] -Jerry 
Inspiron 17 5000 5758 Series AC-3160 Intell Wireless fluctuating signal and 
poor wifi problem and solution