Strong demand for wireless LAN and WAN access has created a surge in the demand for wireless cards.
A survey by researcher In-Stat/MDR found that 30 per cent of respondents who have a notebook computer use a wireless 802.11x PC card, and another 37 per cent plan to use one.
"PC card providers must understand users' willingness to pay," said Becky Diercks, research director at In-Stat/MDR.
"They should price products in the $50 to $100 range and distribute through carrier and consumer channels."
Users cited email and the internet as the main reasons for wireless adoption. But In-Stat/MDR warned that wireless modems will increasingly be built into devices.
Jess Thompson-Hughes, managing director of VAR React Technologies, said: "There's a plethora of cards out there that don't work with certain PCs or access points."
Do you agree?
Have your say on this article