Memory Cards

While you may be familiar with the popular SD memory card, you might be surprised to learn that there are five other types of memory cards besides SD memory cards. Below is a general breakdown of the different types of memory card and the sizes available.

• Secure Digital or SD Memory Card: The most popular memory card for digital cameras, the SD memory card works with most digital cameras which is why it is so popular. Along with varieties like the Micro SD memory card (also called the MicroSD memory card or ScanDisk Micro SD memory card), this card is available in sizes from 16MB to 4GB; most cameras can read up to the 2GB version.
• MultiMedia Card or MMC Memory Card: A digital camera memory card that is very similar to the SD card, the MMC is also available in sizes ranging from 16MB to 4GB and is compatible with most digital cameras.
• CompactFlash or CF Memory Card: Compact Flash memory cards come in 8MB to 16GB sizes; they can be used as digital camera memory cards up to the 2GB size with no problem. Sizes over that use a file format called FAT32 and your camera must be able to read this file to use the larger CF cards. There are two types of CF cards: Type I is thinner and Type II is thicker. Cameras with Type II slots can take either type of Compact Flash memory card.
• Memory Stick or MS Memory Card: The original type of MS card came in sizes from 4MB to 128MB. The newer kinds of MS cards are much larger: from 256MB to 2GB.
• xD Memory Card: xD memory cards are made by Olympus and generally only work with Olympus cameras. Olympus xD memory cards in Canada, the US, and other countries are available in 16MB to 2GB sizes.
• Smart Media Memory Card: SM cards are not used anymore. Cameras made after 2003 are not compatible with SM memory cards.

There are a few important things to know before you go searching for your new memory cards. Check which memory cards are compatible with your camera. There are lists on the internet that can help you determine which cards will work with which cameras. Also, when you buy your card, try to avoid EBay. There are a lot of people selling fake memory cards on EBay. Instead, buy memory cards from a local retailer or from a reputable online company.