Hardware and software wireless on/off switches

[japlytic]

On a Toshiba Tecra (~2005), I found that the wireless client could not pick up any wireless networks at all, even though they were not hidden.
There was a physical wireless on/off switch and it was on, and still could not pick up any wireless networks.
I later found that there was a software (Fn + F8) switch which fixed this problem.

But why would there be a hardware and software switch for the wireless client? There should only be a hardware or a software switch to turn the wireless client on and off. Having one or the other can prevent problems.

Also, does Toshiba still have both a hardware and software switch for the wireless client? And do you know of any others which still do that (in the past and/or present)?

[digge]

Re: Hardware and software wireless on/off switches

Doesnt really answer your question, but at least on the laptops i have the hardware button physically disconnects the wireless nic (windows gives that sound when you disconnect usb devices and stuff). The software off simply sends the hardware a turn radio of signal.

Why they have both options beats me though.

[japlytic]

Re: Hardware and software wireless on/off switches

I also found that Asus (don't know if they still do it today) uses both types of switch.

[stj]

Re: Hardware and software wireless on/off switches

hardware switch was a legal requirement in some country's, not sure if it still is.
that's why the original sony psp also had a hardware switch.

it may have been related to the use of the gear on aircraft.