Can't unscrew RT-N66U antenna

[monsterenergy22]

I just recently moved into a new place, and when packing up the router I decided to unscrew the 3 antennas to prevent any from breaking. 2 came off just fine, but I am unable to get the third off. When I try to unscrew it, the part the antenna screws onto continuously turns with the antenna. I tried a few times to get it off, and with that, am worried that I damaged something on the inside of the router buy ending up twisting something on the inside. Not sure if I created a clear picture so I attached an image with what keeps "turning" on the router itself.

Thanks and let me know if you need any more info!

 

[hggomes]

That means internally broke the SMA connector inside probably, but thats weird because its soldered directly on the PCB, so that means bad news.

Open your router and look inside.

 

[monsterenergy22]

Since it is still under warranty from Asus, should I contact them for a repair?

 

[hggomes]

Yes, if its on warranty you can try to replace it but im not sure if they will refuse it and tell you that was damaged by bad use.

 

[monsterenergy22]

Mhmm alright.

Is there anyway to test that particular antenna to see if its working compared to the other 2?

 

[msb]

Not Good

If the connector on the router itself is turning and you turn it enough the wire on the back of the connector could break away from the connector. It seems odd considering the way the connector is attached to the mother board that it would spin. See the attached motherboard photo. And without sophisticated RF test equipment, you won't be able to test for the presence of RF signal at that antenna. If it's still under warranty I'd return it.

 

[monsterenergy22]

I can't tell for sure that the connector on the router itself is turning, but I can't imagine it wouldn't be since the antenna won't screw off. It does look like it would be hard for that SMA connector to break off. I am afraid to keep messing with it and trying to unscrew the antenna in fear of breaking anything.

Sent Asus a technical support message and will see what they say.

Thanks again for both of yalls help.

 

[wouterv]

It sounds like a bad manufactured sma connector.
See attached image.
There is the square foot part, resting on the PCB.
Attached to that is the round machined part with screw-thread.
The square foot and the machined part are, together with the interior (the central antenna pin construction and soldering points) assembled and probably clamped or tagwelded.
I assume that only the round machined part came loose and turns free on the square part.
Still odd...typical mass production.
If the soldering came loose of the PCB, you would hear (scratching) and feel that, specially if with that move you twist the antenna "cable".
Either await Asus response or find someone who can replace the connector.

 

[jim769]

At the bottom of the antenna were you put your fingers to tighten the antenna there is a round plastic piece with grooves for traction those can come loose and spin around is this maybe your issue ? If so try some needle nose pliers and carefully apply a little pressure there and turn.

 

[hggomes]

I doubt its the soldering broken on the PCB, have you ever thinked if thats the antenna twist minced?