Flash Memory

by Racey Carpenter

Flash memory comes in a variety of forms and can serve many different purposes. Flash memory has grown in popularity due to its ease of use and portability. One of the most popular uses for flash is in digital cameras and game consoles like the Sony psp. It is used as an easy and safe way to transfer large amounts of data within multiple devices. In essence it is like a portable hard drive that you can take anywhere and use on almost any accepting computer/device. Think of a floppy disk but 1/5 of the size and 100,000+ more storage ability and without any moving parts.

Many different companies manufacture flash memory. Some of the more popular types of flash memory are the Memory Stick, Compact Flash and Smart Media. Wide varieties of vendors produce and market the cards such as Lexar, Fuji, SanDisk, and Sony just to mention a few. Intel is getting into the flash memory market soon and will use its marketing and distribution channels to try and become a leader in this fast paced and lucrative industry.

When purchasing flash memory, the most important thing is to make sure that the device that you are planning on using it in is compatible. Most companies make their electronics with specific memory in mind and if you own a Sony camera, you will only be able to use Memory sticks and not SD memory cards. Companies usually do this so that they can make sure you are stuck buying from them, and hence can control the prices. Luckily, third part companies such as SanDisk have begun creating their own version of the Memory Stick, allowing you to save money and achieve then same results. Just remember that research is the key to purchasing a new memory card, and that by buying the wrong one, you will most likely stuck with something that you won’t be able to use. With all this being said, realize that you can count on Newbie for the best prices on not only flash memory devices, but also every other piece of electronic equipment under the sun!

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