Just an update to anyone else having the problem and unable to get it resolved --I bought a dell intel 5300 agn (on ebay - $17 USD) and the problem is now resolved :). No fuss, just plug it in, connect the cables, and let windows install the drivers.
Hi all, I have a Dell Studio 1535 that comes with a dell 1397 wireless network card.When I try to connect wirelessly to any (absolutely any) network in the area the connection fails. I've brought this to work and used it on an unsecure network, my neighbors who have wep and wpa-psk (tkip), and my own which I am using wpa2-psk (tkip). Routers ranging from wrt54g, wrt160n, dir-615, dir-625, and a belkin n (forgot the model). I'm able to see ALL the networks in the area, but when connecting it fails.  I have the dir-615 at home and I've tried every security combination, as well as disabling everything. I can connect with my other laptops (lenovo t42, dell latitude d800 -- think this one comes with a dell 1300 wireless card) after the changes are made without issue.I have absolutely no idea how to resolve this issue. All the drivers and firmware are up to date. I've reinstalled vista home premium several times and even tried windows 7 (use this on my lenovo). Has anyone ever run into this issue or have any idea's on how I could resolve this issue ? Thanks, Shawn
dell 1397 -- Cannot connect to wireless network