ExpressCard

ExpressCard is an interface to connect peripheral devices to a computer, usually a laptop. It was introduced in 2003 by the Personal Computer Memory Card International Association (PCMCIA) as a replacement for the PC Card (also known as PCMCIA Card) standard. The ExpressCard standard delivers faster speeds and improved performance compared to the older PC Card standard.

Overview

ExpressCard technology supports both PCI Express and USB 2.0 connectivity through the same slot, providing a versatile and high-speed interface for various types of devices. The standard defines two form factors: ExpressCard/34 (34 mm wide) and ExpressCard/54 (54 mm wide). Both form factors are 75 mm long and 5 mm thick, but the ExpressCard/54 has a wider end to accommodate larger devices.

History

The ExpressCard standard was developed by the PCMCIA and was first introduced in 2003. It was designed to replace the older PC Card standard, which had become outdated due to its slower data transfer rates and larger physical size. The new standard aimed to provide a more compact and faster interface for connecting peripherals to laptops and other portable devices.

Technical Specifications

ExpressCard slots can support both PCI Express and USB 2.0 interfaces, allowing for a wide range of devices to be connected. The PCI Express interface provides a high-speed connection with data transfer rates of up to 2.5 Gbps, while the USB 2.0 interface offers a more versatile connection with data transfer rates of up to 480 Mbps.

Form Factors

• ExpressCard/34: 34 mm wide, 75 mm long, 5 mm thick
• ExpressCard/54: 54 mm wide, 75 mm long, 5 mm thick

The ExpressCard/54 form factor has a wider end to accommodate larger devices, while the ExpressCard/34 form factor is more compact and can fit into smaller slots.

Applications

ExpressCard slots are commonly found in laptops and are used to connect a variety of peripheral devices, including:

• External hard drives
• Solid-state drives (SSDs)
• Network cards
• TV tuners
• Sound cards
• USB 3.0 expansion cards

Advantages

The ExpressCard standard offers several advantages over the older PC Card standard, including:

• Faster data transfer rates
• Smaller and more compact form factor
• Support for both PCI Express and USB 2.0 interfaces
• Hot-swappable capability, allowing devices to be connected and disconnected without restarting the computer

Decline and Legacy

With the advent of newer technologies such as Thunderbolt and USB-C, the use of ExpressCard slots has declined in recent years. Many modern laptops no longer include ExpressCard slots, opting instead for these newer interfaces that offer even faster data transfer rates and more versatile connectivity options.

See also

• PC Card
• PCI Express
• USB 2.0
• Thunderbolt (interface)
• USB-C