Memory Card News

Automakers dilemma: USB Flash Drive versus Memory Cards

Carmakers and aftermarket electronics suppliers are currently divided on the optimum removable storage format for use in automotive applications, according to a new report from Strategy Analytics, “Automotive Removable Storage - Car Makers and Suppliers Divided on Format.” While the majority of retrofit automotive infotainment systems with memory cards use the SD Memory card or MMC card format, carmakers are showing a preference for USB connectivity.

The use of memory cards in automotive applications has been led by Japanese aftermarket suppliers, with Panasonic launching its first in-dash audio system with removable storage capabilities in 2000. While Japanese electronics vendors still lead the game in removable storage capable audio systems, European vendors, including Blaupunkt and Siemens VDO, have since launched similar systems. Carmakers are showing a preference for USB port integration, with five mainstream car makers incorporating the technology into concept vehicles unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show 2005.

“USB slots are more flexible than removable memory cards. While memory cards like SD Memory Card, MMC card and Memory Stick can only be used for relaying information, USB ports can also be used to connect portable music players and transfer power to portable devices,” says report author, Clare Hughes, Analyst, Automotive Practice. “However, there are safety issues around the in-vehicle USB Flash Drive which protrude beyond the dashboard. Unlike SD Memory Cards and MMC cards, which have a standard form factor, a universal recessed slot for a USB Flash Drive cannot be designed. Since only the end connector is standardized, USB sticks can come in a variety of shapes and sizes.

“Provided by www.allmemorycards.com

Source: www.strategyanalytics.com

Add comment April 7th, 2006

Sony’s proprietary UMD disc format for its PSP game console is losing ground

It has been announced that Paramount and Universal have stopped releasing movies on UMD discs and that some other studios are cutting back on new movie releases. Another draw back is that retailers are reducing the amount of shelf space devoted to UMD movies due to poor sales.
 
This is good news for the Memory Stick PRO Duo format since it is expected to be used for distributing movies, games and other contend via preloaded or downloaded to be used in PSP game consoles. This is already happening since many are using Memory Stick PRO Duo cards for viewing movies and listening to music on their PSP game consoles.
 
Sony has also announced that a PSP digital camera and GPS receiver, by using the PSP’s Memory Stick PRO Duo slot, are planned for release this year.

 Provided by www.allmemorycards.com

Add comment April 5th, 2006

Micron Technology to acquire Lexar Media

Micron Technology, the owner of Crucial Technology, and Lexar Media announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement for Micron to acquire Lexar in a stock-for-stock merger. Lexar will become a wholly owned subsidiary of Micron, and Lexar’s stock will cease trading on the NASDAQ stock market.

The merger is designed to combine Micron’s technology and manufacturing leadership in NAND flash memory with Lexar’s leadership in NAND controller and system design technology, brand recognition and retail channel strength to create a vertically integrated entity fully focused on the NAND business.

Provided by www.AllMemoryCards.com

Source: www.micron.com

Add comment March 8th, 2006