Introduction

Though the methods here shown will work for virtually any PCIe x1 slot and module, for this article I've used the following hardware:

• Motherboard: Biostar G41D3C v7 (link)
• Network Adapter: tp-link TL-WN881ND 300Mbps Wireless N PCI Express Adapter (link)

Before getting started

Before you buy a module for your PCIe x1 slot, you must be sure about the following:

• Make sure it really is a module for a PCIe x1 slot
• Search for the product on the website of the manufacturer and obtain links to the following:
  • A user guide or documentation that has specifications, installation and troubleshooting information. This will help you greatly in the future
  • The drivers for your operating system (software)
• Make sure that the motherboard, BIOS and operating system support the module you're going to purchase

With all this, let's get started

Steps

Step 1: Installation

1. Shut down the system if it's running
2. Open the CPU case
   • This usually differs from vendor to vendor. Most of the times, it's just unscrewing a few bolts and sliding open a cover
   • Refer to the product manual of your case if you're not sure
3. Search for the PCIe x1 slot on the motherboard
   • This is located south of the CPU and towards the case
4. Plug in the device from the inside of the case
   • This is done so that the module brackets can be fastened to the case. These provide structural support to the module and prevent the PCIe socket from taking the weight of the module
5. Provide the module power
   • Most of the PCIe x1 modules don't require an external power, because they're low power devices. But in case the one you're installing does require one, get it from your PSU (Power Supply Unit)
6. Fasten all screws and close everything
   • Basically, screw in the bracket and close the case

And that's it for the hardware side!

Step 2: Software

You've set up the hardware, now it's time to set up additional software on your system to tell it about the module. This type of software is called a driver and is commonly provided by the vendor, so check out their website.

Additional

Useful Links

• TL-WN881ND Product documentation (information, support, documentation and drivers are all there)
  • User guide