Abstract: A method and apparatus is disclosed for wireless communication of a computer with a wireless network or a wireless device. In one embodiment of the present invention, a pc card is configured for insertion into a computer pc card slot. Additionally, a sliding assembly is housed within the pc card. This sliding assembly is operable for sliding into a retracted position and a protruded position. When in the retracted position, the sliding assembly is mostly concealed within the pc card. When in the protruded position, the sliding assembly is partly exposed outside of the pc card. Furthermore, an antenna element is fitted inside the sliding assembly. When the sliding assembly is in retracted position, this antenna element enables wireless communication of a computer with a wireless network or a wireless device.

Abstract: An electrical power management system for supplying power to a computer peripheral having a relatively high intermittent power demand, such as a packet-switched data radio. A first self-contained rechargeable power supply, outputting power appropriate for the electrical appliance, stores electrical energy and supplies power to the appliance. A second self-contained rechargeable power supply stores electrical energy and supplies electrical power to intermittently recharge the first power supply. The first and the second power supplies can be such self-contained units as single or multicell batteries or capacitors. Preferably, the first power supply is a battery or a capacitor and the second power source is an internal power supply of a portable personal computer.