SystemSoft Makes PCMCIA Less Troublesome

PCMCIA offers a lot of promise. It has become the de facto standard for system expansion on mobile computers ranging from handhelds to laptops. In the future, it even has a reasonable chance of becoming the method of choice for adding peripherals to desktop computers.

However, in the meantime, PCMCIA often spells trouble. Compatibility and configuration concerns persist, and the true goal of plug-and-play operation is still a dream. Add to this the often hidden problems related to power management.

SystemSoft, a leading BIOS supplier, has addressed some of these problems with a trio of new PCMCIA software products that reduces the memory required for PCMCIA support, enhances power management of PCMCIA slots, and assists with intelligent auto-configuration of PCMCIA devices.

The new products are:

• CardWizard, a Windows 3.1 utility that provides end-user assistance in diagnosing and resolving PCMCIA configuration problems.
• CardLite, a companion to SystemSoft’s CardSoft Card and Socket Services, balancing PCMCIA card support and memory requirements.
• CardPower, a device driver and user interface that enhances system battery life by extending power management to the PCMCIA slots.

Employing an expert system, CardWizard helps users resolve many common PCMCIA problems including missing drivers, improperly installed software, IRQ and I/O port conflicts, among others. CardPower, on the other hand, reduces unnecessary power consumption by shutting down inactive PCMCIA cards, preventing them from continuing to silently draw power from the computer. ❑

SystemSoft Corporation
Paul Sereiko
313 Speen Street
Natick, MA 01760
(508) 651-0088
(508) 651-8188 (fax)