OK, so here's the tutorial for replacing the built-in mini-pci 802.11g WiFi card with a more linux-compatible card:
[Disclaimer]By following this guide, you assume all risk of damage to hardware, software, data, or self, and release the author from any and all responsibilities.[/Disclaimer]
server is down for now, i'll try to get it back up soon
Sorry for the fuzzy pictures. I couldn't find the macro mode on my dad's camera.
First, unplug the laptop and turn it over on its back.
Next, get a small screwdriver and unscrew the two screws that hold the door closed.
http://outlinux.ath.cx/pictures/ze4560us/P1010131.JPG
Now gently open the door. The screws end comes out first and the other end has little tabs holding it in. They will come free once you tilt the door up.
http://outlinux.ath.cx/pictures/ze4560us/P1010132.JPG
There are two wires attached to the card. Grab the little metal connector on the end of the first wire and tug gently straight up. You can wiggle it on its rotatable axis to break the friction. Keep in mind that these connectors are not screw-on, and they will come off after a little bit of wiggling and tugging.
http://outlinux.ath.cx/pictures/ze4560us/P1010133.JPG
Make sure you keep track of which wire goes to which terminal. Next, detach the second wire and remove the card by pressing outward on the two metal clips. The card will pop up when it is free of its restraints. If you have ever installed RAM in a laptop, this is the same mechanism.
http://outlinux.ath.cx/pictures/ze4560us/P1010134.JPG
Once the card has popped up,
http://outlinux.ath.cx/pictures/ze4560us/P1010135.JPG
grasp it by the part that has come farthest out of the case and pull it up and away from the slot.
http://outlinux.ath.cx/pictures/ze4560us/P1010136.JPG
Great! Now you take the new card, and simply do all of these steps in reverse.
Notes:
When putting the new card in, make sure that you seat it firmly in the slot, or it will not be recognized. When re-attaching the wires to the terminals, make sure that you press straight down on the terminal and make sure that it pops into place.

Modprobe instructions:
sudo modprobe ath_pci
that command should get any internal Atheros chipset card to be recognized by the OS if it's not already picked up by the hardware probe