Need help installing Alfa AWUS036ACS wifi adapter

I purchased this adapter based on a suggestion in the D-link thread (the D-link adapter will not work for current Linux kernels). This one requires going at least into kernel related stuff, and I haven't touched the kernel since 1992. Put simply, I need help to make sure I don't screw up the kernel and end up making a big paperweight out of my laptop.

Some of the data from the D-link thread should be here, so I will be copying that here. I need help getting this adapter running, because, as mentioned above, some steps involve kernel related stuff and, frankly, I'm scared to go there on my own.

Thanks