I have just bought an Optiplex 3040mt. Apparently it was pre packaged and not customizable, which seems to be fine as it has plenty of power for my uses.

What I cannot get  is a definitive answer out of Dell ... can I install a wireless card inside in an available slot? I believe that I can use a USB flash drive in an external port, but I get different answers from different people at Dell whether a card can be installed inside the cabinet.

Some have told me that it can be done only in the Micro -Tower which is smaller than the Mini-Tower (MT) that I bought. Another Dell rep said that I would have to upgrade to the Opti 7040 in order to get a wireless card installed (additional $250.00). Neither of those answers make sense.

Other Dell reps have said there are no slots inside and one said yes,it can easily be installed. I am not only confused, but frustrated with  being transferred to incorrect phone numbers, people that do not understand questions and a generally inept CSR experience.

I have not even taken the computer out of the box yet as I am waiting for an IT guy to transfer data and do set up and tweaking. I want to  obtain either a card or a USB drive to set up the wireless so we can do everything at one time but I need to know if it can be installed in this machine or not.

I could easily install a card ahead of time IF I knew that buying it was not a waste of time and money but if  it will not accept it or run it, I would rather not open a brand new cabinet.

I do not understand why the wireless capabitlity is not part of the package. Both Lenovo and HP offer wireless as standard equipment at the similar configuration level.

Any answers will be appreciated.