How to Install PCMCIA Generic Wireless
Regardless of the brand name of PCMCIA wireless card you may have, you must follow the same process to install the devices. The steps below will not assume that you have any specific card and will present information pertinent to generic wireless PC cards. In most cases, you will install a PC Card into a older laptop. If you have a newer laptop or a desktop, you may be able to purchase an adapter that works with one of your available slots. Most newer laptops feature ExpressCards. If you are unsure of what slots are available on your computer, please see your computer manufacturer's documentation.
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Things You'll Need
- Available PCMCIA slot
- Computer that meets card's system requirements
- Internet access
Instructions
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1
Boot up your computer.
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2
Slide your PCMCIA generic wireless card into your available PC Card or ExpressCard slot. The position of your card slot will vary according to your computer manufacturer and model. You will hear a click once the card is properly seated and secure.
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3
Allow Windows to detect your wireless card and to install required drivers.
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4
Click on "Start," then "Control Panel."
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5
Click on "Classic View" in the left column.
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Open "System." Click on "Device Manager" in the left column in Windows Vista and Windows 7. Click on the "Hardware" tab, then "Device Manager" in Windows XP.
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7
Expand the "Network adapters" category by clicking on the "+" to the left.
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8
Double-click your PCMCIA wireless card. Jot down the name and model of the card. Click on the "Driver" tab, then select "Update driver."
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9
Allow Windows to update to a new driver, if found.
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10
Click "OK."
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Tips & Warnings
Search for software for your PCMCIA card after you've discovered the make and model of the card.
Always eject cards prior to removing them by using the "Safely Remove Hardware" icon in your task bar.
If you're installing a mobile broadband wireless card that allows you to connect to a cellular Internet network, you will have to download and install the connection manager software for your device.
