5th January - Vodafone launched the new version of its 3G Broadband card in Express Card format, which currently permits transmission speeds of up to 3.6Mbps. This launch makes Vodafone the first operator in Portugal to offer its customers 3G Broadband services in this new format. Designed mainly for users of laptops and for access on the move, the new Express Card format Vodafone Mobile Connect Card is readied to support data transmission speeds of up to 7.2Mbps, forecast to be available in 2007.

The Express Card format is significantly smaller than the familiar PC Card or PCMCIA, as well as being lighter and using less energy, which allows more efficient laptop battery consumption.

The communications port for the Express Card is already fitted to top and mid-range laptops and is expected gradually to replace PCMCIA technology. However, to enable all laptop users to use the new card, Vodafone is including a PCMCIA adapter in the sales pack at no extra cost.

The new Express Card is available for 129.90 euros on signature of a 12-month contract.

Vodafone pioneered the development in Portugal of 2.5G (GPRS), 3G (UMTS) and 3.5G (HSDPA) networks, and was the first operator to offer 3G services in Portugal by means of the 3G PCMCIA Vodafone Mobile Connect Card and to offer the 3G Broadband USB Vodafone Internet Connect Box.

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