How To Install Ipk File?

[Douglas]

 I bought my son a Zaurus 5500 a couple of years ago for his 18th and have just ordered a Linksys WCF 12 card to add wireless conectivity for a Christmas present. I browsed the forums here and this seemed the best option (the card from Shirtpocket is not in stock right now). I am happy to edit the wlan-ng.conf file for him using Vi when I give it to him, but only now do I see that the terminal IPK file needs to be installed from the CD-ROM. It may be already installed (he did update the software from Sharp); How could I talk him through checking this over the 'phone (I do not have one myself, mine still runs DOS!)? If it needs to be installed is it a drag-and-drop from his Windows computer or is it more involved (I see it is "debian like")?
Sorry to post such a dumb question.
Douglas

[offroadgeek]

try this FAQ, and let us know if you need any clarification

How do I install software onto the Zaurus?

[Douglas]

 Thanks offroadgeek, nice FAQ. I will try and 'phone him tonight.
Douglas

[Douglas]

Is it necessary (or advisable) to hard reboot the Zaurus before installing a program like terminal? Would the userdata on the Zaurus 5500 be wiped out making a recovery from a  back-up necessary?
The web site (originally posted at Amazon) says:-

 To get the card working first hard reboot the system by opening the
    battery compartment and pressring the reset button. When the reboot
    is finished, install the terminal IPK file from the Zaurus CD-Rom.

But the FAQ does not suggest this.
Thoughts?
Douglas

[Douglas]

  Its OK folks, I got the message that it (Terminal) is installed.
Great site, thanks all, esp. Offroadgeek.
Douglas

[Jcroto1]

I have a 5500 and the WCF12 card.  It worked as soon as I put it in.