What is a microdrive?

[basketkase543]

Sorry if this is obvious but is a microdrive the same as a compact flash card? Will the micro work in my cf slot? What is the difference? Thanks.

yes, a microdrive will work in your CF slot.

a microdrive is nothing more than a small hardrive (just like in your pc) but in a CF package. your typical CF cards (those from sandisk, lexar, etc.) are solid state.

solid state = no moving parts and uses less power
microdrive = a hard drive that got hit with the shrink ray

[basketkase543]

Are there any major differences between them? Is one better/worse? Thanks for the help

[Don't Panic!]

Microdrives require more power because of the moving parts and may have a time lag between the time you insert it and the time you can actually use a program or file because the drive is spinning up, onl a second or two really.

I like solid State cards better because they are more durable. I've stepped on solid state CF cards, dropped them, and basically abused them and have still been able to use them. I don't think a microdrive would take kindly to an over 200lb adult stepping on them.

HTH

Don't Panic!
Bobby

[dekruyter]

But, microdrives usually have more disk space, at a lower per/megabyte price. Just don't go jogging with a microdrive.

[FallN]

Oh, I always wanted to know what all the Microdrive hub-bub was about. I do a lot of working out and jogging, so I guess that wouldn't be the best option for me- but wait! I don't even have a CF slot.

I'm still waiting on my 1GB SD card from Dell. Looks like my 256MB SD card is gonna have to do right now. I only have 14MBs free on it...

These are the times when I wish I had a gun and Dell's corporate address.

JUST KIDDING!

also microdrives are slower than solid state memory

this can be a big deal if you are transfering big files or if on your digital camera you are waiting for it to save pictures to the memory...

[FallN]

Hmmm... I guess bigger isn't always better then, right?






























NOT! Size DOES matter. :approve:

Hmmm... I guess bigger isn't always better then, right?

NOT! Size DOES matter. :approve:

Of course size does matter.

After all, everyone loves a big... ...tool