PCMCIA freezes Knoppix 3.3

I have a NEC VERSA 6030x Laptop, and a RE450CT Ethernet PCMCIA adapter.
Everything worked fine until RH7.something.
Now, if I boot with Knoppix 3.3 (3.4 not available, alas...) or
Slax or Damn Small Linux live CDs, when I plug the card in I hear one
bip only, then the whole thing freezes, and only a power cycle
restores control.

How can I make it work with Knoppix, or at least figure out exactly what
the problem is? Please don't hesitate to ask for test, specific logs,
whatever.

TIA,
Marco F.