What is a card reader and what is it for?

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, because all this can be done using a USB cable, which is usually included in the standard configuration. Let us disagree and give a few arguments in defense of the card readers.

First, the transfer of information through a cableis performed with a speed, usually not exceeding 300 Kb / s. Imagine now how much you have to wait if you need to download, for example, several gigabytes. And with the help of the card reader the value of the write / read speed reaches 6 Mb / s and more, that is, 20 times faster!

Secondly, the card reader is much more convenient and practicalin use. As a rule, when connecting a device using a USB cable, it becomes necessary to install additional software or drivers. This is especially disadvantageous when you have a lot of digital devices that you need to connect to different PCs. When using the card reader, this problem is absent - it is usually recognized quickly, and the inserted card is visible as a separate removable disk.

Thirdly, when you connect anydevice, for example, a digital camera, through USB it spends energy, which adversely affects the battery, shortening its lifespan. Naturally, there is no such problem for the card reader either.

So, we figured out what a card reader is, and inthan its advantages over a USB cable. Now consider the variations of this device. Depending on the method of connection, they can be external and internal. The internal reader is suitable for users who use their own PC only. The device is inserted into the 3.5-inch slot of the system unit, to the place previously reserved for the obsolete disk drive. An external device should be selected if you have to connect to computers that are out of the house. As this version is widely used, let us examine in more detail what the external card reader is. Currently, the vast majority of them work through the USB 2.0 interface, which provides the maximum data transfer speed. External card readers support plug and play technology, which allows you to disconnect them "hot", without any additional manipulation.

When choosing a card reader, be sure to pay attentionon the supported formats of memory cards - this is the main criterion. Minimum set: MD, CF, SD, MMC, MS, SM. Most card readers can support from 7 to 50 varieties of cards. However, if you only need to use a few of them, we recommend that you give preference to a model with a smaller number of formats, as this will give some gain in speed. In general, card readers have several slots for different 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 recommend buying a special adapter (or several) for the required types of memory. Also, when selecting, find out what additional useful functions a certain 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, than to be guided at purchase. Currently, the market for these devices is quite extensive, so you can easily find the model that best suits your needs.