wireless adapter - technical definition

A device that adds wireless connectivity to a computer or PDA. It is attached via a USB port, PC Card, memory card or is plugged into the PCI bus inside the computer. There are three types of wireless adapters: Wi-Fi, cellular and Bluetooth.

Wi-Fi Adapters
Wi-Fi adapters provide wireless connectivity to the local area network (LAN). Typically plugged into laptops, they can also be installed in desktop computers for wireless connectivity throughout a home or office. See network adapter, 802.11 and Wi-Fi.

Broadband Cellular Adapters
Cellular wireless adapters, also called "air cards," "broadband adapters" or "broadband cards," are used in laptops and provide the same wireless mobility as a cellphone. See wireless broadband and broadband card.

Bluetooth Adapters
Bluetooth provides very short range wireless transmission, such as between a headset and cellphone or a mouse and computer. Bluetooth adapters for laptops and desktops typically plug into a USB port. See Bluetooth.