How to Install a Mini PCI Wireless Card
A wireless network card (commonly identified by a small antenna visible in the back of the computer) is a small card used to wirelessly connect a computer to a wide variety of external devices such as cable modems, wireless printers and other computers. Installing a wireless network card may seem like a difficult and time-consuming task for someone who is not familiar with the internal workings of a desktop computer, but with a few basic instructions you will be able to install your wireless network card quickly and easily.
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Instructions
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1
Turn off your computer and unplug all of the cables connected to the back of your PC tower.
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2
Move the tower to your flat work surface.
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3
Remove the side panel of the tower. Depending on the manufacturer, you may need to remove a retaining screw or press a retaining clip located in the back of the tower.
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4
Attach an anti-static strip to your wrist and clip the other end to the side of your PC tower. If you choose not to use an anti-static strip, simply touch the exposed unpainted metal on the side of your tower to discharge any static electricity you may have in your body.
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5
Install the card in the motherboard by gently pushing downward in the available PCI slot. Do not force it into place or you may cause damage to both the wireless card and the motherboard.
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6
Insert the screw to hold the network card in place using the Phillips screwdriver.
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7
Return the side panel to your tower and make sure it is secured using the screws or clips, depending on the model.
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8
Return your tower to its usual location and plug all cords back into the tower.
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9
Reboot your computer. Depending on your operating system, your computer should automatically detect the new card and install existing drivers from the driver cache.
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Configure your computer to communicate to the wireless device of your choosing by following the instructions included with the card or the network wizard program available on Windows operating systems.
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Tips & Warnings
Whenever you buy a computer component, they come in an anti-static bag. It is always a good idea to save these bags in the event you remove a component from your computer. This way you can safely store it without risk of static shock damage.
Avoid doing computer maintenance on carpeted surfaces if at all possible. Carpeted surfaces greatly increase the risk of static charge buildup, and this can seriously damage most of the components inside a computer.
