Memory Card Readers

If you already have purchased a digital camera, you are probably already aware of the memory card and how important it is. But if you have a memory card, you will ultimately need a card reader. A memory card reader essentially does exactly what it sounds like it does: memory card readers read memory cards from your camera.

Why would you want one of these memory card readers? Well, card readers are what takes the data or pictures from your memory card and puts it on your computer so you can view, edit, and print your pictures. Also called media card readers, memory card readers are the best and fasted way to transfer your pictures to your computer.

There are two types of memory card readers: internal and external. Internal memory card readers are installed in your computer's tower. External card readers connect to your computer's USB port. While internal card readers can be a hassle and often require a professional to install, external card readers are easy to use and simple to connect. External memory card readers are usually used with PCs, though some are compatible with Macs.

There are six main types of memory cards: Secure Digital (SD), CompactFlash (CF), Memory Stick (MS), MultiMedia Card (MMC), xD Picture Card (xD), and SmartMedia (SM). SmartMedia is no longer used in cameras and hasn't been used since 2003. Each of these types of cards can use special card readers, or they can use universal readers that are compatible with the type of card. For example, an SD card reader will only read Secure Digital cards; but some SD card readers, like a USB SD card reader that is compatible with other formats, can often serve as an xD card reader as well as an SD card reader. Below are three examples of memory card readers.

• ScanDisk Extreme 2.0 USB Reader: this is one of the faster readers on the market. It reads 20MB/second; it reads and writes CF Type I and Type II cards as well as SD and MS cards for Windows and Mac OS.
• Lexar Single Slot Reader: this is a reader and writer plus it is a USB portable flash drive; it reads SD, MS, MMC, and xD memory cards.
• Kingston 15 in 1 USB 2.0 Hi-Speed Reader: this one handles every type of memory card available on the market today: CF (both Type I and Type II), SD, MS, MMC, and xD.