This set of instructions work for an IBM Lenovo Thinkpad R30 laptop but should apply to others as well. Installing a new or replacing an existing miniPCI card is a simple and easy process that can be performed in less than 30 minutes.

First make sure that your laptop has an available slot for the wireless card and then remove the battery and disconnect the power. Most laptops that have a free miniPCI slot can easily have an 802.11 wireless card installed. The IBM Lenovo Thinkpad R30 has a back panel covering the miniPCI slot; it can be found on the lower right hand side of the back panel of the laptop. A single screw attaches the panel to the casing and will need to be removed with a small Phillips head screwdriver. The screw does not come out of the panel so do not be surprised when this happens; IBM did this to help lessen lost pieces of equipment.

The panel covers the miniPCI card which is now visible if you are replacing an existing 802.11 card; two cables will need to be removed from the card. The gray cable is the main antenna for the card and the black cable is the auxiliary. Carefully remove the existing miniPCI card if one exists. Take your new wireless card and line up the connectors, then slowly insert the card. Use your documentation form the card materials to find the antenna connector locations. Attach the antennas and seal the panel. While you have the panel off it may be a good idea to clean the area with compressed air and a small clean paint brush. This will help to remove the dust and dirt that may have accumulated within the assembly.