How to Disable Wi-Fi on an Epson XP-7100 by Locating the Wi-Fi Board (Step-by-Step Guide)

Question:
A customer asked how to disable Wi-Fi on an Epson XP-7100 by removing the internal Wi-Fi board and wanted guidance on where to find that part inside the printer and how to identify the correct board.

Answer:

To address your question about disabling Wi-Fi on the Epson XP-7100: yes, you can disable the Wi-Fi function by removing the internal Wi-Fi board, but it must be done carefully. Identifying the correct board is the most important step before removal or replacement.

How to Locate and Identify the Wi-Fi Board in an Epson XP-7100

Removing the Wi-Fi cable or board will disable the wireless function entirely. To do this properly, here are the steps and considerations:

1. Identify the Wi-Fi Board's Connector Type

Before anything else, you need to verify which connector your XP-7100 uses:

• Pin Count: Some units use a 4-pin connector, while others use a 5-pin.

• Orientation: The connector may be vertical or horizontal.

Even if the model numbers seem similar, the physical orientation can vary, and mixing them will cause the board to not fit or not operate properly.

2. Locate the Wi-Fi Board Model Number

The most reliable identifier is the model number printed directly on the Wi-Fi board itself. Because the print is small, you'll likely need your phone to zoom in on it.

• Every character must match exactly.

• Even if two boards look identical, a mismatch such as J26H006 vs. J26H005 means they are not compatible.

• Ignore markings such as:

  • PCB version codes

  • Manufacturing dates

  • Factory stamps

Only the main printed model number matters.

3. Physically Finding the Wi-Fi Board in the XP-7100

In most XP-series printers, including the XP-7100, the Wi-Fi board is typically located:

• Along the side panel behind a plastic cover, or

• Mounted near the control-panel assembly behind the scanner unit

You will usually see a small rectangular PCB with a short ribbon cable leading to the mainboard.

If your goal is simply to disable Wi-Fi, removing the ribbon cable from the Wi-Fi board is typically enough. If you intend to replace the board, note the connection type and model number before ordering.

4. Searching for the Correct Board on Our Website

Once you confirm:

• the model number, and

• the connector orientation (4-pin/5-pin, vertical/horizontal)

you can visit BCH Technologies (https://bchtechnologies.com/) and search for a matching part.

For example:

• If your board is 5-pin vertical, search for that term and verify that the model number matches your existing board exactly.

• Always match the model number first-connector orientation alone is not enough for compatibility.

Important Note About Disabling Wi-Fi

After removing the board or disconnecting the cable:

• The printer will continue working normally through USB.

• You may see a minor notification in settings indicating Wi-Fi hardware is unavailable, which is expected.

This method is commonly used in secure print environments to prevent wireless access.

Addressing printer issues can be a complex, hands-on process, so we're not able to provide remote troubleshooting or repair support. We do offer in-person evaluation and repair through our local diagnostic facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service [https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service]). Because of high demand, service operates on a first-come, first-served basis, and there may be a waiting period before drop-off. Our services cover complete printers or individual components, but we recognize our rates may not be the most economical. For this reason, we also recommend exploring self-help resources on YouTube, including our channel's homepage at BCH Technologies (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies [https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies]). Use the search icon next to "About" to quickly locate videos on specific models or repairs. With hundreds of videos created over nine years, this is the fastest way to find relevant instructions-YouTube may even recommend helpful videos from other channels.

Thank you again for reaching out and for your continued support. Your questions help us improve and serve the community better.