I'm pretty new to building PCs—my first build was just a few days ago, and I recently replaced my motherboard from an MSI B550 to an MSI X570 Tomahawk. While assembling, I mistakenly put my old WiFi card into the third PCIE slot. I know my new motherboard has built-in WiFi, but I was keen on using parts from my old build. Now, I'm having trouble getting the WiFi card out. I pressed the release tab, but it won't budge. Any advice on what I should do? I'm worried about damaging the motherboard, and I'm not ready to take it to a shop yet.
3 Answers
Sometimes the back of the card gets caught on a screw from your case, either above or below it. A photo could help diagnose the issue! You can upload one and share the link for more targeted advice.
First, try unscrewing the card and then pull it out straight up from the motherboard. It might not have latched in properly since those latches are mainly for x16 cards. Just be careful when you pull it out!
I've tried that, but it feels stuck. I’m probably not pulling hard enough because I’m worried about breaking something.
Ensure that the card is properly unscrewed first. A neat trick is to take an 18" zip tie, loop it under the WiFi card near the PCIE contacts, and pull both the PCI bracket and zip tie straight up. Just apply enough force to loosen it, but stop if it feels too tight.
That worked! The zip tie method was a game changer! Thanks a ton!
Thanks for the tip! I was able to get it out after checking for any blockage!