What Are Air Cards for Laptops?

The term "air card" is another way of describing mobile or wireless modems in U.S English. Air cards typically connect to laptops, providing users with Internet on the go.

Types

Any wireless device capable of connecting to the Internet can be thought of as an air card, including cell phones and Blackberrys. Standalone air cards work as add-on cards based on wireless technologies such as Bluetooth and 802.11b Wi-Fi.

Significance

Thanks to the portability and affordability of air cards, laptop users can easily get high-speed Internet connectivity wherever wireless service exists. This has eliminated the need to stay close to a fixed connection point.

Considerations

Unlike Wi-Fi hotspots, air card wireless modems connect to the standard cellular network, increasing the range of usage. However, they suffer from the same limitations as other cell devices--poor coverage in enclosed, underground or remote locations.

Identification

Most air cards are either USB sticks or ExpressCard/PCMCIA, and both connect easily to any modern computer, although the latter only interface with laptops.

Function

The speeds offered by wireless modems generally fall short of wired connections due to interference. With the advent of HSDPA networks, or so called 3.5G, theoretical speeds in excess of 14Mbps became a reality.

History

Commercial introduction of air cards by cell phone providers began in 2006, with the UK's Vodafone being the first company to do so. Vodafone affiliate Verizon then added to this with a USB modem/storage combo in 2007.

Resources

• Notebook Review