What is the difference between “PC Card” and “PCMCIA”?
The term “PC Card” referes to the credit card-size peripherals that add memory, mass storage, and I/O capabilities to computers in a rugged, compact form factor. The term “PCMCIA” (Personal Computer Memory Card International Association) refers to the non-profit trade association and standards body that promotes PC Card and ExpressCard technology by defining technical standards and educating the market. In the past, cards were known as “PCMCIA Cards”, but the industry now refers to products based on the technology as “PC Cards,” “PC Card Hosts” and “PC Card Software,” and refers only to the association as PCMCIA. Are PC Card and ExpressCard compatible? No. Electrically, the PC Card interface utilizes a connection to ISA-style (16-bit interface) or PCI (CardBus interface) parallel busses. ExpressCard modules utilize either the PCI Express or Universal Serial Bus (USB) serial interfaces. Mechanically, the PC Card interface uses a 68-contact pin and socket connector, while the ExpressCard
