Synthpop gets its name from the synthesizers that form the genre's sound. Many people say the history of synthpop begins with Kraftwerk, a german band that dates back to the early '70s.

New Wave grew out of synthpop in the mid-seventies and is reknowned for the 'big hair' that many artists wore in the eighties. It tends to have more of a dance beat than 'pure' synthpop.

The Synthpop Network is a good site for news, artists, labels, and clubs. There are several streaming radio stations worth giving a listen to.

Synthpop.net is more of a news site - very up-to-date.

The New Wave Complex is a good place to start for those unfamiliar with New Wave.