Memory cards have dramatically changed the way data is stored and shared.
In an age where bigger and faster is always better, removable storage devices such as xD and SD memory cards have changed the way data is saved and shared. But the differences between them are many.
xD Defined
Fuji and Olympus introduced the xD (Extreme Digital) picture card in 2002, touting its compact size and available memory. This form of data storage had the promise of being employed in cameras and other devices for years to come.
The Good & Bad, Part 1
Not much bigger than a postage stamp, xD cards transferred information more quickly than some other formats and consumed less power. On the downside, they remain slower than the Secure Digital (SD), were more expensive and fit the only Fuji and Olympus devices.
SD Defined
SD is another type of flash memory card. Panasonic debuted the SD card in 1999, and it has secured its place in many hand-held devices including cell phones and digital cameras.
The Good & Bad, Part 2
SD cards are touted for their ease of use, increased memory and ability to take information--music, photos--to other compatible devices. The SD card, and its micro versions, are becoming the industry standard.
Battle of the Bulge
The xD format was created to compete with other memory card formats such as the SD card, CompactFlash and Sony's memory stick. Ultimately, that notion failed in part because of compatibility, slower information transfer speeds and higher cost.
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