xiaobaitu, twocents and others: a question about EAD

Hi, Xiaobaitu, my EAD based on F-1 is expiring in Jan 07. My wife applied for I-140 and 485 last Sept. Her lawyer is applying for an EAD based on 485 for me effective Jan 07. The lawyer called it renewal in the application. Since the EAD is switching from F-1 to 485 based, should we call it new application? Also, how soon should we expect to hear (at least a receipt) from USCIS after EAD application is sent? Thank you for your help!