Flash Memory

Flash Memory

Flash memory is a type of electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM).

The name comes from how the memory is designed -- a section of memory cells can be erased in a single action or in a "flash."

A common use of flash memory is to store the BIOS settings in a computer's ROM.

When the BIOS needs to be changed, the flash memory can be written in blocks, rather than bytes, making it easy to update. Most modems use flash memory for the same reason.

Though flash memory was orginally used inside computers, it has invaded many other areas outside the box.

Flash memory cards used for digital cameras, cellular phones, networking hardware, and PC cards.

Though the memory's read/write speed is not lightning fast, it is nice to be able to tote around a little card rather than a cumbersome hard drive.

Using flash memory cards

A flash memory card is a removable storage device capable of holding digital photos, music, video, documents, and other files. These small, removable cards are used to store files in a wide variety of mobile devices, such as digital and video cameras, mobile phones, and portable music players.

There are many different types of flash memory cards. Here are some of the most popular types:

·         Secure Digital (SD)

·         CompactFlash (CF)

·         MultiMediaCard (MMC)

·         Memory Stick

·         xD-Picture Card

Note

·         There are several different variations of SD cards, including SDXC (SD Extended Capacity), SDHC (SD High Capacity), miniSD, and microSD.

Most flash memory cards plug into a device or computer through a custom port (an SD port for SD cards, a CompactFlash port for CompactFlash cards, and so forth). Some computers come with ports that allow you to plug in many different types of flash memory cards.

When you connect a flash memory card to your computer, Windows will automatically recognize it and allow you to transfer files from the card to your computer.

Transferring files to your computer

There are two ways to transfer files from a flash memory card to your computer:

·         Remove the card from the device and plug it into a memory card reader connected to your computer. Windows will recognize the card and offer you options for transferring the files on the card to your computer. Some memory card readers are installed in a computer, while others are portable and can be plugged into a computer through a USB port.

·         Leave the card inside the device and connect the device to your computer, usually with a USB cable. Then, transfer the files from the device to your computer using the connection cable that came with the device.

If you connect a flash memory card to your computer and nothing happens, then Windows isn't able to detect the card.Windows 7 might not recognize some SD cards that were used on a computer running a previous version of Windows.

To check if Windows can detect your card, click the Start button , click Computer, and then look under Devices with Removable Storage for the flash memory card.