Flash memory: A Faster and More Reliable way to Manage Data?

Answer 1

Anyone who owns a computer, a digital camera, or other digital communication product has heard about flash memory. Flash memory encompasses a wide range of products such as Thumb Drives, USB Drives, CompactFlash, SmartMedia, Memory Stick, SD Cards, and solid state drives. In fact, the basic instructions that allow a computer to begin its boot process are stored on a type of flash memory called a BIOS.

Flash memory is a specialized type of electronic device that is part of the EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read only memory) family of devices. However, what separates flash memory from other EEPROM devices is that flash memory can be erased and written to in large sections in contrast to individual bytes. Flash devices are nonvolatile memory storage devices. This means that data stored onto them is held, even after power has been removed.

Because of the availability and diversity of digital products, there is a growing need for storage solutions that not only work faster and more reliably, but can hold larger quantities of data. Hard drive capacities have been increasing at an astronomical rate, but because they contain moving parts, their storage speed ability and reliability are limited. Increased speed and reliability coupled with their small size, portability, and lower power consumption are all reasons why flash memory is fast becoming the preferred data storage solution.

When looking to upgrade or replace a flash memory card that is part of an electronic device, other than a computer, the type of card purchased is important. New flash memory is faster and will have a larger storage capacity, but they are not backwards compatible. Some devices were designed with standard flash memory in mind, so HC (high capacity) cards may not work in those devices. It is always best to review the owner"s manual, under the specifications section, to see what type of memory card the device requires. If the manual is not handy, one can try searching the manufacturer's website for the device specifications. In the event the device is no longer being produced, the memory card's information can be obtained from the label on the existing card.

When purchasing flash memory for a computer system, the task becomes a lot easier. Most flash devices currently being sold are compatible with today's computer systems. The devices are designed to plug into a computer's USB port, where they are recognized by the operating system and become immediately available for use. At this time, the only specification that needs to be considered is whether the flash memory requires USB version 3. Indeed, most flash memory designed for computers are backwards compatible so a USB 3 device will still operate on a USB 2 or USB 1. X system; however, the device will not operate at its full speed.

Flash devices are produced by many different manufacturers. However, it is advisable to acquire products from name brand manufactures to ensure a stable and reliable product has been purchased.