Background Information
Framework's Expansion Cards are optional modules that can be slotted into one of the four expansion slots on the Framework Laptop. Each module can provide additional functionality and customization options to the laptop including additional storage, and expanded I/O options. These modules can be plugged into any of the expansion slots so that users can have the option of which side the new I/O is on.
Official Framework Expansion Card Options
The official Ethernet Expansion card developed by Framework.
Officially Framework offers several different I/O options for their laptops along with several different storage expansion modules. Some of these options include...
- Storage Expansions (either 250 GB to 1 TB)
- a full-size DisplayPort
- HDMI port
- Ethernet port
- MicroSD card slot
- USB-A/USB-C.
Community Contributed Expansion Cards
User contributed LTE Cat 4 Cell Modem Card concept design created by the user Tim_Taylor
In 2021 Framework made their Expansion Card CAD plans available for users to create their own custom expansion cards via their GitHub. The core goal of doing this was to allow users to find new and interesting ways to extend the capabilities of their Framework Laptops. Users can show off and receive feedback on their own custom expansion card on Framework's Community Website and could apply for additional backing from Framework to make their expansion card publicly available.
Some notable community-driven expansion cards include...
- Magnetic Charging Converter
- LTE Cat 4 Cell Modem
- Dual USB-C
- Scroll Wheel
- UART
Official Expansion Card Developer Program
In early 2023, Framework launched the developer program for their expansion cards. This allowed developers to gain access to the design files and documentation around Input Modules for their laptops. This enables the general community to develop new and interesting technologies for the Framework laptop.
In late July of 2023, Framework announced that they would be giving away adapter boards, which would allow a user to interface the input modules to any PC over a regular USB-C cable. Framework allowed users to apply for a free adapter board, but due to limited supply, the boards would only be given out to creators and developers who have electrical and mechanical progress that could be shown.