Type III PC cards are one of three PC cards specified by the Personal Computer Memory Card International Association (PCMCIA). In appearance, the three cards are nearly identical: all are the same width and length and feature a 68-pin connector. The thickness of each card differs, however, at 3.3, 5.0 and 10.0 mm for Type I, Type II and Type II cards, respectively. A Type 3 PC card was created for devices with thicker components, such as rotating mass storage devices. Type 2 PCMCIA cards are commonly used for I/O devices such as data and fax modems, mass storage devices and LANs, while Type I PC cards are often used for memory devices. Type IV cards are allegedly in development, but have not been approved by the PCMCIA.

Today, you can purchase laptops that already have a Type III PC card slot; for desktops, consider an external or internal PC card reader. In order to get the memory expansion you’re looking for from a Type III PC card, consider the following:

1. Purchase a Type III PCMCIA card from online retailers.

2. Buy an external or internal Type III PC card reader for your desktop computers.

3. Choose laptops with Type 3 PC card slots.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Buy Type III PC cards from online vendors

Most Type III PC cards today are 32-bit and offer up to 100 Mbps of performance. Shop around to get the best deal.

I recommend: Purchase Type III PC cards from Buy.com or PriceGrabber.com.

Select an internal or external Type III PC card reader

If your current laptop or desktop doesn't have a Type III PC card slot, don't feel left out. You can easily install one (or have your local computer store install one for you) that will let you read and write to Type 3 PC cards as well as Type I and Type II versions.

I recommend: Go to Computer Online to purchase a drive for your desktop computer that can read from and write to Type I, Type II or Type III PC cards. Primary Simulation, Inc., offers internal and external PCMCIA card readers.

Purchase a laptop with a Type III PC card slot

If you're in the market for a new laptop for your business, check out laptop options that have Type III PC card slots already installed. This will bring you up to date with PC card technology and will provide the expanded memory you're looking for.

I recommend: Epinions.com provides reviews on several laptops that feature a Type III PC card slot. Shopping.com is another great place to comparison shop.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  PCMCIA has worked to make PC card technology easy to use and improve compatibility among Type III PC card suppliers. However, standardizing PC card technology is an ongoing effort, so always be sure to read the specifications for a PC card Type III to ensure it will be compatible with your computer system.