What is a PC Card?

There's a good chance that you use your notebook computer in several ways. It can be used as your research tool on the Internet, chatting with others, and even entertaining yourself during free moments. No matter what you choose to use it for, a PC card can help you figure out even more things to do with it. It provides you with more new features to use than what you initially started out with. Although a notebook computer may have a ton of already installed components, there will come a time when you'd like to add a little more.

Function

A PC card provides you with a quick and easy way of expanding your notebook computer. It fits into a slot located on the side of your notebook computer and can be used with several things. You can insert the WiFi, Bluetooth, or mobile broadband PC card into your notebook computer to begin using any additional features. A few examples include connecting your notebook computer to your Bluetooth device for a quicker data exchange, browsing the Internet on your mobile carrier's network, or listening to streaming music at a WiFi hotspot.

Types

The three most common types of PC Cards are Type 1, Type 2 and Type 3. Usually, Type 1 PC cards are used in various devices for memory. Examples include flash memory and RAM. With Type 2 PC cards, you'll gain a bit more features. Many TV tuners and modem PC cards fall into this category. Sometimes the Type 2 PC Cards include a dongle that enhances its features. Type 3 PC cards consist of hard disk drive and interface cards that don't require an additional dongle.

Features

PC cards add Firewire capability to many notebook computers that don't have the feature built in. Slide the PC card into your available PC card slot to activate it. Turn your notebook computer into a portable television with a TV Tuner. There are numerous TV Tuners that can fit into your PC card slot. You'll be able to connect the TV Tuner card into the nearest cable outlet or allow it to capture free over the are HDTV channels. If you're a traveler, then the PC card can provide you with mobile broadband access on your cellular carrier's network. Connect to a fast Internet in coverage spots that don't have WiFi.

Identification

Most PC cards can be distinguished by their thickness. Type 1 PC cards measure 3.3 mm in thickness. Type 2 PC cards are usually 5 mm thick. The thickest PC card of all is the Type 3 PC card, which measures 10.5 mm thick. Each one of these PC cards also differ according to their purposes. A USB PC card will have several USB ports on it and a TV tuner card will have connections for audio and video inputs.

Benefits

PC cards provide you with an affordable way to add more features to your notebook computer. Instead of purchasing a brand new computer, just use the PC card slot to expand its capabilities. Not having to open your computer to install extra components is a major benefit. Within a few minutes of installing your PC card, you'll have more USB connections, a Firewire connection, or a way to record your favorite television shows.

Resources

• Netgear Adapters (PC Cards)