PCMCIA Releases Latest ExpressCard Standard, Version 1.1
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Latest Release Makes Specification Easier for Developers to Use for Product Development
San Jose (May 31, 2006) - - PCMCIA, a leading technology trade association for modular expansion of computing devices and developer of the PC Card(TM) standard, today announced the release of the latest ExpressCard(TM) Standard specification, version 1.1, for companies developing products using ExpressCard technology.
ExpressCard(TM) technology is the latest high-performance, hardware expansion standard for desktop and mobile computers and replaces the current PC Card(TM)/Cardbus(TM) Standard. The specification is currently available at www.expresscard.org. The specification is free for members. Non-members can purchase the specification for $2,000 and have the option of becoming an associate PCMCIA member.
The ExpressCard Standard v1.1 updates and clarifies the technical requirements for ExpressCard technology, including incorporating numerous technical proposals and editorial changes. The goal of the latest version was to make it easier for vendors to understand and implement the Standard in their product development.
ExpressCard modules give users the ability to add a wide variety of 'plug 'n' play' applications to their computers, including memory, local area network (LAN), wireless wide area network (WWAN), Wireless (Bluetooth), memory adapters, parallel adapters, serial adapters, TV tuners, smart card readers, instrumentation, 1394A&B and serial ATA (SATA). ExpressCard technology supports the advanced serial I/O technologies: USB* 2.0 and PCI-Express.*
"The ExpressCard Standard has been embraced and implemented by the leading computer manufacturers in the world," said Brad Saunders, chairman, PCMCIA. "The strong adoption signals that the market is ready to take advantage of the smaller form factor, high-performance features of ExrpessCard technology. The latest specification clarifies and improves certain technical requirements to make it easier for manufacturers to develop products using the Standard."
To date, more than 102 ExpressCard products, including 54 host systems and 48 modules, have participated in the compliance program. Fifty-five computers and modules are currently rated as compliant and are able to display the ExpressCard logo, an energetic orange rabbit. Only members who pass the compliance process are able to use the logo.
All ExpressCard products must complete a two-step compliance program to ensure compatibility of compliant ExpressCard products. First, companies must complete a checklist that outlines key technical requirements. Products then undergo interoperability testing, consisting of a standardized test procedure conducted between participating host systems and module products and a set of mandatory tests against a "gold" suite of compliant host systems and modules. Compliant products are listed in a Resource Directory at www.expresscard.org.
The ExpressCard standard is the next generation of PC Card technology used in more than 95 percent of all notebook computers for adding new hardware capabilities. Dell, HP, Intel, Lexar Media, Microsoft, SCM Microsystems and Texas Instruments are among those supporting development of the new standard under the PCMCIA umbrella.
About PCMCIA
Founded in 1989, PCMCIA is a non-profit trade association that establishes technical standards for PC Card technology and to promote interchangeability among computer systems. Already a feature in almost every notebook and palmtop computer, PC Card technology empowers users to configure systems and create unique, integrated solutions to meet their computing needs. Based in San Jose, California, the association has a growing membership of more than 110 companies worldwide. The PCMCIA also has a specification development and co-publishing relationship with the Japan Electronics and Information Technology Industries Association (JEITA) covering PC Card and Smart Media technologies.
