I have to say, I think built in 802.11b and BT are a HUGE mistake.
I\'ve heard this argument before. But here\'s the thing: Connectivity vs no connectivity is vastly different from connectivity vs faster connectivity. I\'ve been a wifi user for years - I was an early adopter, and I\'m sick of juggling around cards. One time I put my laptop in my bag with the wifi card still in the slot (which I used to do often) and the end of the card got crushed. So now I always remove the card, but that provides a storage problem, having to find some pouch or pocket to keep it in. The problem is even worse with ultraportable devices, where all the accessory juggling takes time and diminishes the portability advantage. And now that I use bluetooth with my phone, the problem has doubled. I can barely fit both cards in my Zaurus case. So, bt and wifi are a no compromise issue for me now.
These standards are transient at BEST.
Actually, wifi will be with us for a long time to come. Frankly, the difference between 11mbps and 54 mbps isn\'t that significant for many purposed. Don\'t underestimate the power of \"backwards compatibility\" and \"established base\". Many places, having already invested in 802.11b won\'t see the need to upgrade. And those that do, are going to want to maintain compatibility with what 90% of devices work with. Anyway, I wouldn\'t mind getting built-in support for a/b/g. That\'s an option with the Dell, at least, and any notebook that uses mini-pci can be upgraded manually.
It is highly likely that BT will soon be replaced by newer and better standards. These things are not good as built in components. You would be far happier in the long run with pcmcia WiFi and BT cards.
No, I would be happier with them built in, as I\'ve explained. Bluetooth is less of a sure thing than wifi, but it also stands a chance of being useful long term. But really, if it turns out I need something else in the future, my pcmcia slot is still available.
