CF vs SD - which card for different files

Dennis · 02-12-03, 11:57 AM

Hello all, love the site! I'm new to PDAs so please be gentle

Which card, CF or SD, is best to use if you want to run apps, play games or mp3 music from it? I already own several CF cards (two Viking 256MB) and I'm looking at purchasing one or two more. I know that I will want an SD card in case I use the CF slot for wireless connectivity, GPS, etc.

Also, what is the performance hit when running things from the memory cards vs. running them from the internal memory? Will apps bog down or mp3s get choppy?

gcpiney · 02-12-03, 12:57 PM

As a general rule, use the SD card for Permanent files.This leaves the CF slot open for
a number of options.

GCPiney

mattf · 02-12-03, 01:08 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by gcpiney@Feb 12 2003, 11:57 AM
As a general rule, use the SD card for Permanent files.This leaves the CF slot open for
a number of options.

GCPiney

Just curious - but why?

JJKrista1 · 02-12-03, 01:54 PM

Whilst being in no way a PPC expert. I don't think there is any real difference between the two formats.

An SD card can be set to read-only, (cannot do this with CF) and also is a bit smaller. Access times vary slightly but to be honest IMHO your're not going to notice it.

Having just ordered an Axim, I also bought a 512Mb CF card. The reason: I can get a 512Mb CF card for about the same price as a 256Mb SD card. So me being sensible and prudent I plumped for the lower cost per Mb. (esp. after just blowing $400 on a boy's toy...errm.... I meant productivity tool)

However in the not to distant future (8 weeks or so) Sandisk will be releasing a joint 256Mb / Wi-fi SD card. Obviously expect prices to be at a premium to start with, but (as with all technology) to drop significantly when the 512Mb version is released and other manufacturers follow.

If I was in your shoes: I'd go for the cheapest card. e.g. If you're in the USA, Amazon has a 1Gb card for about $225 (i think). Assuming it works with the Axim, I'm gonna buy a SD wi-fi card when they're out. There are web sites out there which compare in some detail the two card formats in some detail.

Hope this helps.

rhyno · 02-12-03, 02:04 PM

The SD Wi-Fi combo (or any other bluetooth/networking) card won't work with the Axim. The SD slot is not SDIO -- meaning it cannot handle I/O, only storage. CF cards are a great value in terms of cost/MB for sure, but if you're looking for more goodies (network, presentation adapter, camera, etc.) to add to your Axim, the SD memory -- while more expensive -- leaves you room to grow.