 Memory
Card readers are the most efficient way to download your digital digital
memory cards and a highly recommended digital camera accessory. Card
readers plug into your computer via USB or FireWire port and allow you to
transfer your files without using your camera's batteries or dealing with
cables. You install the card reader as you would any other USB or FireWire
device and plug the card into the reader when you want to transfer your
images. The memory card will show up on your computer as a separate,
removable drive when it's plugged into the reader.
Card readers are available in internal and
external models with USB, USB 2.0, and FireWire connections. USB 2.0 and
FireWire readers have considerably faster transfer rates than most cameras
- another good reason to use a card reader instead of using your camera's
supplied USB connection.
memory card reader designed for notebook use. It is a fast and easy way
to read and write documents, files, pictures, and music to and from your
notebook, and it supports SmartMedia, Secure Digital, MultiMediaCard,
Memory Stick, Memory Stick Pro, Memory Stick Magic Gate, Memory Stick Duo,
and Memory Stick Pro Duo cards. It also boasts a high-speed interface for
fast memory card access and downloading.
Benefits of a card reader
- Convenience, no more reaching behind your computer to fiddle with
cables.
- Speed, available in Firewire and USB 2.0 types, high transfer speeds
can be achieved.
- Compatibility, most cameras only take one kind of card, some readers
can take all different types of memory card.
- Power, using a card reader saves your camera's power for taking
photographs.
- Can be used to transfer small files between computers faster than
with floppy disk.
The different types of card reader
With such a wide range of card readers available, it can be confusing
deciding which to buy. The main types are outlined below.
Single card readers
These are the most basic of all, allowing you only to
use one type of card in them.
They are fine if you can never imagine needing to read any
other type of card.
Multi-card readers
Able to read from two to as many as six different types of
card, these can be very convenient.
If you don't think you'll use anymore than two of the card
types offered by the reader, try find a dual reader and save
some money.
High-speed readers
With the files digital cameras produce becoming larger and
larger, the time taken to transfer images to your PC is
increasing.
If your computer has a Firewire or USB 2.0 port, there are
card readers that will take advantage of the extra speed these
connections allow. They are particularly effective with fast
memory cards or IBM microdrives.
Compact readers
If you travel a lot, and need a reader to take with you,
these offer the perfect solution. Though on a normal desktop
computer they aren't as convenient as the other readers
mentioned.
Prices for all these different types of card reader can vary a lot.
Multi-card and High-speed readers tend to cost the most. Once you've set
your budget, all you need to do is decide which type of reader described
here best suits your needs. Good luck with your card reader buying!
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