subject: Types Of Memory Storage [print this page] Every time one buys a new mobile or camera they hear about a completely different type of memory card being used. This is an attempt to list some of the commonly used memory chips.
SD Card - The SD card, which stands for Secure Digital, is the most basic form of memory card and the precursor to the SDHC, Micro SD and other forms of flash memory cards. They are very small and thin and can hold as little as 32kb up to 2gb. They are also highly compatible and can be used with most digital cameras, PDAs and smart phones. As the oldest form of memory card they are the best option for older models which can sometimes struggle with larger sizes. Today they are also incredibly cheap and so for backing up small files or for low-spec gadgets such as digital photo frames they are still a good purchase.
Micro SD Card - The micro SD card is simply a smaller-sized SD. This means that they are more suitable for even smaller appliances such as mp3 players designed for running. Using an adapter the Micro SD card can be adapted to fit SD card slots while the larger sized cards cannot be adapted to fit smaller slots. This makes them slightly more versatile, though they are prone to getting lost due to their miniature stature and are marginally more expensive than SD cards.
Mini SD Card - The mini SD card is a size between the SD and micro SD. This can cause some confusion so its important to ensure that the card is the correct size before making a purchase. Again many micro secure digital cards can be used in the place of the mini SD using an adaptor.
SDHC Card - The SDHC card stands for Secure Digital High Capacity. These expand on the SD cards by providing up to 30gb more storage space making them capable of up to 32gb at a now fairly affordable price. While older electronic devices may struggle with SDHC cards, most gadgets now support them. It is common to find SDHC cards mistakenly referred to as SD cards, so be sure to check which is meant.
Micro SDHC Card - The micro SDHC card is simply the smaller SDHC card, allowing for high capacity in smaller devices and again offering the option to adapt for use with regular-sized SDHC slots.
Mini SDHC Card - The high capacity mini SD.
SDXC Card - The SDXC is the next step in terms of memory card capacity, promising up to two terabytes of storage space. For a rough idea of just how much space that represents, psychologists have estimated the human brain to have a capacity of just 10 terabytes, meaning that an SDXC card will give your device one fifth of your memory power... SDXC stands for Secure Digital Extended Capacity, and while SDXC cards have already been released they have not yet reached their potential with only 32gb available at the time of writing. No doubt micro and mini SDCX cards will follow.
