USB Flash Memory Media Types

Perhaps the most popular type of USB flash memory is the USB stick, or USB flash drive. Ranging in capacity between 64 MB and 2 GB, these devices offer high data capacities as well as high data transfer speeds. In addition, these drives can be installed on a Windows 98, ME, 2000, or XP based computer with no extra hassle or device drivers to install. Simply insert the drive, and let Windows automatically setup the device. One disadvantage to these devices, however, is that they are purely for data storage, or data transfer between two computers. There are also currently no digital cameras which can read or write to these flash drives. These devices are best suited for creating backups of important data, and for copying files between computers.

If you own a digital camera, chances are you have used the next type of USB flash memories- the flash memory card. Ranging in capacity between 64MB and 1GB, these cards allow you to store data (typically pictures), and transfer them to your computer, or to another camera. In order to be able to read data from these cards, your computer will need to be equipped with a flash memory card reader. Once your computer is equipped with this card reader, you can simply insert a flash card into the reader, and be able to read any pictures or data contained on that card. This media type has two disadvantages: slow media read and write speeds, and the requirement for a card reader. There are several types of flash memory cards, which can also add to confusion. Since the separate cards are not compatible with each other, it is an absolute requirement that you select the right card when you are looking for a replacement card.

Flash memory technology is improving. With the innovation of better data density technology, capacities are only going to increase with time. A wise investment would be in a flash memory card reader that is capable of reading the major 12 flash memory card formats. These 12-in-1 devices are invaluable, since they will be able to read any format of card that you might purchase in the future.