Many users are interested in the question: "What is a card reader and what functions does it perform?" In short, this is a device designed to read information from memory cards that are used in digital cameras, PDAs, mobile phones and other devices. Some may say that it is not necessary, since all this can be done using a USB cable, which is usually included in the standard package. Let us disagree and give a few arguments in defense of card readers.
Firstly, the
transmission of information via cable is carried out at a speed usually not exceeding 300 Kb / s. Imagine now how much you have to wait if you need to download, for example, a few gigabytes. And with the help of a card reader, the value of the write / read speed reaches 6 Mb / s or more, that is, 20 times faster!
Secondly, the card reader is much more convenient and practical to use. As a rule, when connecting a device using a USB cable, there is a need for additional installation of special software or drivers. This is especially inconvenient in the case when you have many digital devices that need to be connected to different PCs. When using a card reader, this problem is absent - usually it is quickly recognized, and the inserted card is visible as a separate removable disk.
Thirdly, when you connect a device, such as a digital camera, via USB, it consumes energy, which negatively affects the battery, reducing its battery life. Naturally, this problem also does not exist for the card reader.
So, we figured out what a card reader is, and what are its advantages over a USB cable. Consider now the varieties of this device. Depending on the connection method, they can be external or internal. The internal card reader is suitable for users who use exclusively their PC. The device is inserted into the 3.5-inch slot of the
system unit, to the place that was previously allotted to the now obsolete drive. An external type of device should be chosen if you have to connect to computers outside the home. Since this variety is widespread, we will analyze in more detail what an external card reader is. Currently, the vast majority of them work through the USB 2.0 interface, which ensures maximum data transfer speed. External card readers support plug and play technology, which allows you to disable them "hot", without any additional manipulation.
When choosing a card reader, be sure to pay attention to the supported
memory card formats - this is the main criterion. Minimum dialing: MD, CF, SD, MMC, MS, SM. Most card readers can support from 7 to 50 types of cards. However, if you need to use only a few of them, we advise you to prefer a model with fewer formats, as this will give some gain in speed. Basically, card readers have several slots for various types of flash cards. Their number, as a rule, does not exceed five. But if you also have to deal with cards that do not fit into any of them, we advise you to purchase a special adapter (or several) for the necessary
memory types. Also, when choosing, find out what additional useful functions this or that card reader has: USB ports or, perhaps, the ability to combine memory cards into a RAID array. And, of course, make sure that the delivery includes the necessary software, which can greatly facilitate your work.
So, now you know what a card reader is, what types of this device exist, what to follow when buying. Currently, the market for these devices is quite extensive, so you can easily find the model that will best suit your needs.