Since 1998, virtually all high-end notebook products have incorporated CardBus technology. With the CardBus, laptop users will finally be able to take full advantage of the equipment they already own. Like all CardBus cards, the CardBus CF Adapter employs a special keying mechanism, which prevents insertion in systems with slots that only support 16-bit PC Cards. Therefore, CardBus cards cannot be used in systems that lack CardBus slots. All CardBus cards can be easily distinguished from standard PC Cards by the gold grounding shield strip across the connector.
CardBus transfer rates are, theoretically, up to 132MB a second. Actual transfer rates for the CardBus Adapter will depend on the specific memory card controller speed. Customers with high-speed cards, such as the Delkin PRO, will notice a significant speed difference when downloading files, compared with a standard PC Card adapter. However, customers with slower cards may not notice any difference at all.
The design provides for a compact, rugged card/adapter combination that can be inserted completely within its host computer without any external cabling. Many photographers, especially Pro's, are looking for ways to reduce the amount of extra equipment they have to carry during photo shoots.
The CardBus Adapter will continue to support the hot-swapping and plug-and-play capabilities that users have come to expect from 16-bit PC Cards.
The high transfer rate and ease of use make the CardBus Adapter competitive with USB 2.0 and FireWire readers.
Windows XP, 2000, ME and 98/98 SE operating systems are supported. The required driver software uses a simple plug-and-play installation.
