Travel Technology - PCI desktop card - Vista compatible?

I just bought a new desktop and want to install a PCI card to connect to my wireless network at home. However, all the PCI descriptions say "... compatible with ... Windows me, Windows 2000, Windows XP, etc..." - they do not mention Vista.

I realize Vista just came out not to long ago. Do (or could) these work with Vista? :confused:

Another question - my router is Linksys, do I need to get a Linksys card or will some other brand (such as Netgear) work also? :confused:

It is possible that it will work with Vista, but your best bet is to go to the manufacture's website and look up your PCI wireless network card and see if there are updated drivers that include Vista or if Vista is listed on the card's info page. Vista itself may automatically detect it, or may just require a windows update.

Linksys routers don't require the same brand wireless card, but I have been in situations where it has made a difference.

The major thing is what wireless standard is your Linksys wireless router? Either 802.11b (the older slower standard), or 802.11g (the newer faster standard). If you have to buy a new wireless card, make sure it is 802.11g compatible. 802.11g is automatically backwards compatible with the slower 802.11b.

Why PCI? If I may, USB WiFi NICs are far cheaper, perform just as well, and are much easier to install and situate as needed for best signal. If it MUST be PCI, check the vendor's website for Vista drivers or at least google the vendor name and model number. If you can't find anything on Vista, chances are no driver exists.

Thanks for the fast responses! ^

Since there are only a small handful of WiFi chipsets out there, chances are your card WILL work. It's possible the original vendor won't have a driver, but the manufacturer will. That said; I am pretty sure almost every wifi chipset is supported by default in Vista (of course, there will always be an exception to that).

I have a Linksys usb wireless adapter plugged into my desktop. I have my Ipod cord plugged into the usb slot right next to the wireless adapter. Every time I plug my ipod in if the ipod cord moves even in the slightest it knocks me off my wireless network and I have to relog on. Does that happen to anyone else?