How to Install a Wireless Mini PCI Card in My Laptop

Installing a mini PCI card in your laptop will let you surf the Internet through wireless ports.

Laptops can have all the capabilities of standard desktop computers without having all of the same full-sized motherboard ports. Instead of a standard PCI card slot, your laptop has a mini PCI port that can be used for a wireless network card. With such a card installed you can access wireless Internet networks. A new wireless card can easily be installed by opening the laptop and accessing the mini PCI port.

Things You'll Need

• Phillips-head screwdriver
• Needle-nose pliers
• Wireless mini PCI card

Instructions

1. Turn off your laptop. Close the display lid and unplug any cables connected to the computer's ports. Flip the laptop over.

2. Ground yourself by tapping your fingers against a metal device that is rooted to the floor. Locate the laptop's battery bay release button. Move the button into the unlock position and then remove the battery from the battery bay.

3. Locate the plastic cover that hides the wireless mini PCI card. Depending on your model, the wireless card may have its own cover or it could be situated underneath the memory module cover instead.

4. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to remove the screw holding the cover over the wireless mini PCI card. Some models have two screws.

5. Slide a fingernail underneath the edge of the plastic cover and lift the cover off the laptop. Remove the screws holding the wireless mini PCI card to the motherboard.

6. Pull off the two antenna cables on the side of the wireless mini PCI card. If you have trouble removing the cables manually you can use a pair of needle-nose pliers.

7. Put the new wireless mini PCI card onto the motherboard and attach it with the screws. Reconnect the antenna cables to the side of the card and then place the plastic cover onto the laptop case. Reconnect the screws and pop the battery back into place.

Tips & Warnings

• Wireless mini PCI cards are typically available through online stores that sell computer components such as memory or hard drives.

• Most laptop models house the wireless mini PCI card on the bottom side of the case, but some keep the card underneath the keyboard instead. To remove the keyboard, push the edge of a flat object, such as a flat-head screwdriver, underneath the plastic strip above the keyboard. Pop off the strip and then remove the screws holding the keyboard in place.

References

• Inside My Laptop: Disassembling HP PavilIon Laptop
• Inside My Laptop: Disassembling Compaq Presario Laptop
• Inside My Laptop: Disassembling Acer Travelmate Laptop