Jargon Buster – Memory Cards Explained

Is the world of memory cards a dark and scary place to you? Fear not - Digi-Quick.co.uk have the answers to the questions you never dared to ask.

What type of memory card do I need?

Your camera will most likely only work with one type of memory card – check in the manual what type you need before you buy. Most DSLRs use the CompactFlash (CF) format, while the majority of compact digital cameras use Secure Digital (SD) cards.

How big a memory card do I need?

This really depends on the type of camera you own, and what format of images you usually shoot. DSLR users typically find a 2GB card is most convenient – a card this size can hold around 300 RAW images from a 6 megapixel camera, or 120 from a 10 megapixel camera. Compact users shooting JPEGs will find a 1GB card can hold around 320 images from a 6 megapixel camera.

What’s so good about CompactFlash?

CompactFlash is the industry standard for DSLRs, so with nearly every camera able to use these cards CompactFlash offer the biggest choice of manufacturers, arguably the best performance, and certainly the best value for money.

What about Secure Digital (SD)?

Compatible with most compact digital cameras, and a few DSLRs, Secure Digital cards are very popular. They offer similar performance to CompactFlash and a generally a little cheaper.

What does the speed rating mean?

The card’s speed rating gives an indication of how quickly the card can transfer data to or from the camera or card reader. Speeds are rated on multiples of 1x, which is a transfer rate of 150KB per second. So a card rated at 40x has a maximum speed of 6MB per second; a 100x card 15MB per second; and a 133x card 20MB per second.

Do I need a card reader?

A card reader which plugs into your computer allows you to download image files directly from the memory card. This is very often faster than connecting your camera directly to the computer, and allows you to bypass the camera-supplied software. Firewire connections are generally faster than USB. Buy a multi-card reader that can read different types of memory card.

Can airport x-ray machines damage memory?

Relax! Airport x-ray machines have been found to have no adverse effects on digital memory cards.

Is it better to use one large memory card or several smaller ones?

With 8GB CompactFlash cards now available, it can be tempting to buy a single, massive card to hold your photos. The most significant advantage of a single card is that you will spend less time swapping cards.

However, several smaller cards can offer better value for money, and if one card fails the chances are you won’t lose as many images. Also, very large memory cards may not be supported by older or less-expensive cameras.