CompactFlash is a mass storage device which is small and portable
. It uses flash memory and it is used in various portable devices like digital cameras, handheld computers etc. It uses flash memory and thus the data it stores remains saved even if the external power supply is cut off.
In 1994, CompactFlash cards were first introduced by SanDisk. One of the most common uses of it is in digital camera. The brand new Extreme Pro CompactFlash memory card by SanDisk is any photographers delight. It has capacities such as 16 GB, 32 GB and 64 GB as well as 90 Mb/s peak write and read speeds. Besides this it has the plus point that it can go with any card reader or any camera.
CompactFlash card is very durable and reliable since it is a single unit devoid of any moving parts. It has strong features and is robust enough to withstand accidents or strong impacts. In the various devices the slots for the cards are made in such a manner so as to prevent any sort of damage due to wrong way of card insertion. Unlike some USB flash drives the CompactFlash does not have cryptographic capabilities.
Initially, CompactFlash used NOR based systems as a result it was larger in size compared to other memory cards. But, eventually it shifted to NAND based systems .It is only half ounce in size but can store loads of digital data. CompactFlash uses a connector having 50 pins. It consumes very low amounts of power and compared to all other flash memory storage available it has one of the lowest costs.