How do memory cards work?Updated 9 months ago

Memory cards may have different form factors, connectors, bus standards, or PCI lanes, which makes them look different and perform differently, but the underlying working principles are still the same.   

A memory card is a small, portable data storage device used in many consumer electronics, such as cameras, phones, and tablets. They are lightweight and incredibly durable digital devices that can hold large amounts of data in a compact form factor. 

Memory cards differ in terms of storage capacity, speed, form factor, and compatibility. Storage capacity determines how much data can be stored on the card. Speed relates to the time it takes to copy data onto or off the card. The form factor will determine what type of device the card can be used in. Compatibility relates to which devices recognize the card or what types of files can be stored on it. 

The most common memory cards used in digital cameras are SD cards, microSD cards, CFexpress Type A, CFexpress Type B, and CFast cards. Though seemingly very different, all these cards work essentially the same. 

How do Memory Cards Work? 

If you break open any memory card, you will always find two things: a controller and a NAND flash memory chip. NAND stands for Not And logic gate. The controller is responsible for managing data (reading and writing), while the memory chip is responsible for storing data.  

To read more about the controller, the NAND Flash Memory chip, and what makes some cards faster, visit the full blog post here.