Apple introduced the AirPort Card for their new line of iBook notebooks in 1999. These laptop computers were designed for use in schools and homes. AirPort is a local area wireless networking system that follows the IEEE 802.11b specification. Other devices with the same specification are compatible with this networking system. A single base station could have ten iBook notebooks connected to it with the help of the AirPort system. The AirPort Card is nothing but an upgraded PC Card. PowerBooks, e-Macs, iMacs, and Power Macs have the option of using the AirPort Card.
The Original AirPort Card and the Extreme AirPort Card were the basic designs of this card introduced by Apple. The Original AirPort Card is double the size of the AirPort Extreme Card. The former has the physical form of a PCMCIA card. However, it cannot be used in any PCMCIA slot as it is designed exclusively for the Apple AirPort Card slot found on specific machines. Not many changes were initiated in the design of the original AirPort card till its production was halted in 2004.
Sony has also manufactured an Original AirPort Card that is distinguishable by the Sony label and the top antenna. Though it isn’t exactly a replacement, it can be used for testing whether the card slot is functioning properly or not. The Original AirPort system had a file-sharing feature and could also be used for sharing access to the internet. The transfer rate for this card could reach 11 Mbit/s. | 
