PC Cards to Get Smaller, Faster

PCMCIA Cards, the credit-card sized cards used in a variety of applications for notebook computers, will soon be getting smaller and faster. A new technology called ExpressCard claims to be twice as fast as the current iteration and about half the size.

Several laptop models with the new technology are expected to be announced this month, with at least half having the ExpressCard slot by years end. About a dozen cards are expected to be released shortly, mostly for standard memory and communications uses.

The technology does have the backing of several industry giants, including Microsoft, Intel and Dell. The partners say they see ExpressCard eventually moving to the desktop PC, where it could make opening up the computer unnecessary for computer upgrades.

Jupiter Research senior analyst Joe Wilcox gave one such scenario, calling it a potential "killer app" for the technology. "In concept, a home entertainment computer, such as one running Windows XP Media Center Edition, could use a digital tuner ExpressCard rather than bulky and unsightly cable tuner box," Wilcox said.

He argued that this approach would make more sense on high-end notebooks with TV capabilities. "Entertainment could bring the technology first to home theater enthusiasts and later the mass market."

ExpressCard proponents say those with lots of PCMCIA cards wanting to buy new notebooks in the next two years should not worry. Most new laptops, at least through 2006, should have both an ExpressCard and PC card slot, allowing for a smooth transition.