Consumer ExpressCard Standard FAQ

General

2. How is it related to the PC Cards I now have?
Both product standards were developed by PCMCIA. The PC Card is used in 90%+ of notebook computer to provide added functionality for the user. ExpressCard replaces the PC Card as the 'next generation' solution for add-in capabilities for computers. It gives computers users access to emerging, high-speed technologies that are only just appearing on the horizon, like digital TV and improved security.

3. How is this so different from the PC Card?
ExpressCard technology draws upon many of the features of existing PC Card technology. There are also significant differences between the two.

• Size. ExpressCard modules are roughly half the size and lighter.
• Speed. ExpressCard modules are capable of speeds up to 2.5X faster than CardBus and 40X faster than 16-bit I/O PC Cards (depending on the application).
• Design. ExpressCard standard takes advantage of recent technology advancements to simplify the design and eliminate the need for a controller.
• Ease of use. The modules are hot-swappable between mobile and desktop systems.
• Power. ExpressCard modules require less power.

4. Who developed the standard?
The ExpressCard standard was created by a broad coalition of computer manufacturers, including Dell, Hewlett Packard, Intel, Lexar Media, Microsoft, SCM Microsystems and Texas Instruments. PCMCIA developed the new standard with assistance from the USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF*) and the PCI-SIG* (Peripheral Component Interconnect-Special Interest Group). PCMCIA is a non-profit trade association founded in 1989 to establish technical standards for PC Card technology and to promote interchangeability among computer systems.

5. Are PC Cards and ExpressCard modules compatible?
The two technologies are not compatible. The decision was made to take advantage of advances in technology to simplify the design. The speed and size of the new ExpressCard design outweighed the backward compatibility issues.

6. When is ExpressCard technology available?
It is available now, in a wide variety of notebook computers and modules.

How It Works

If you are inserting a 34 mm module into the universal slot, insert the module straight into the wide opening and the internal guide will gently direct the 34 mm module to the left side of the slot to connect with the module with the computerŐs ExpressCard connector.

8. Why do ExpressCard modules come in two sizes?
There are two sizes of ExpressCard module. One is 34mm wide (ExpressCard/34) and the other is 54mm (ExpressCard/54). Both modules are 75mm long and 5mm high. The 34mm module will also work in the slot designed for the 54mm wide modules, but not vice versa. The two sizes were to accommodate the fact that some applications will not fit into the 34mm slot, such as rotating disk media, CompactFlash adapters and SmartCard readers.

9. Where do I buy an ExpressCard module?
Products are available directly from vendors and through resellers. Currently, notebooks are available online and through resellers and modules are primarily available online. A list of available products can be viewed on the Where to Buy page or the ExpressCard Resource Directory, both found here at www.expresscard.org.

Operating System Compatibility

11. Do ExpressCard modules work with Linux computers?
ExpressCard modules should work with Linux computers. Users are advised to check that Linux drivers are available for any ExpressCard products they purchase.

ExpressCard Applications

13. Where can I find an ExpressCard that supports EV-DO?
Please see the Where to Buy page for currently available modules.

14. Does the ExpressCard support Compact Flash? My CompactFlash card is wider than the ExpressCard slot? What do I do?
ExpressCard modules support CompactFlash in both the 34mm and 54mm or Universal slot size. Some computers, such as the Apple MacBookPro only offer a 34mm ExpressCard slot and must use the 34mm adapter. Please see the Where to Buy page for currently available modules.

15. Does the ExpressCard standard support Firewire?
Absolutely, both FireWire 400 and 800 (a.k.a. 1394A and 1394B). ExpressCard modules also support hard disk connectivity through Serial ATA (eSATA), or can provide serial ports and additional USB connections. Please see the Where to Buy page for currently available modules.

16. What storage media is supported?
ExpressCard technology supports 6 different storage types: CompactFlash, SD, xD, Memory Stick, MMC, Memory Stick Pro. You also have the option of purchasing an ExpressCard module that can be used as a storage media (like an extra portable hard drive.) Please see the Where to Buy page for currently available modules.

17. What applications do you expect to see in the ExpressCard form factor now and in the future?

• 1394/FireWire: Connect your computer to other high-speed digital devices for data transfer, such as digital video cameras, external hard disk drives, etc.
• Extra Connections: Use an ExpressCard module to add additional USB ports, Parallel ports, Serial ports, and virtually any other cabled connection used in digital systems
• Hard Disk connection: Connect your computer to an external hard drive through Serial ATA (SATA), FireWire 400/800 (1394A/B, iLINK)
• Memory Adapters: ExpressCard modules can be used as a reader for CompactFlash, SD, MemoryStick (including Duo and Pro), MMC, xD, SmartMedia, etc.
• Multimedia: Use an ExpressCard TV Tuner module to view over-the-air or cable/satellite television on your computer, upgrade your computer's existing audio capabilities with an upgraded sound card, or add additional monitor support to more than double your viewing area
• Networking: Connect to a wired network in your home or office using Gigabit Ethernet, 10/100 Ethernet, any other wired networking standard
• Security: Use an ExpressCard module to add advanced security features, such as a biometric fingerprint scanner or SmartCard reader to prevent access from unauthorized users
• Storage: Add storage memory through large capacity Flash memory modules or rotating media contained within an ExpressCard module
• Wireless PAN (Bluetooth): Communicate wirelessly between your computer and other Bluetooth-enabled devices (cell phones, PDAs, keyboards, printers, scanners, etc.)
• Wireless LAN (WiFi, 802.11a/b/g): Access the internet through local wireless networks (at your home or office) and "hot spots" (such as those found in airports, restaurants, cafes)
• Wireless WAN (3G, CDMA, Edge, EV-DO, GPRS, UMTS, etc.): Access the internet anywhere through the cellular phone networks
• Wireless MAN (WiMAX, etc.): Metro-area broadband microwave internet connections

 
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