ExpressCard Technology Benefits

ExpressCard technology is designed to deliver high-performance, modular expansion to notebook computers at a lower cost and in a smaller form factor than traditional PC Card technology. Users are able to add memory, wired and wireless communications, multimedia, security features and more by using ExpressCard modules. ExpressCard modules come in two widths, 34 mm and 54 mm, and utilize either the High-speed USB or PCI Express serial interfaces. Offering 2.5X higher performance, half the size, and lower cost than today's PC Card, ExpressCard products leverage the proven advantages of PC Card technology, including reliability, durability and expansion flexibility.

The PC Card on the left is a different size, shape and weight than the ExpressCard/54 (middle) and ExpressCard/34 modules (right).

Ease of Use

PCMCIA's ExpressCard technology builds upon and improves the ease-of-use model well established by PCMCIA's PC Card technology. ExpressCard slots utilize the native hot-pluggable PCI Express and USB busses. As illustrated in the block diagrams below, they do not require the expensive controller or cumbersome software stack found on the PC Card interface. ExpressCard module designers can utilize the USB or PCI Express interfaces depending on the application requirements. Module designers can also use chip and other hardware designs from non-ExpressCard applications without redesigning specifically for ExpressCard modules. This results in a faster time to market for products and, in most cases, a lower cost for the consumer.

PC Card Interface	ExpressCard Interface

ExpressCard Modules

Technology Benefits In Depth

Introduction