What are the differences between SD cards, SDHC, and SDXC cards? Compatibility and how to choose the right one for industrial applications.

First, the conclusion! A comparison table showing the types and features of SD cards at a glance

SD cards are categorized into SD (SDSC), SDHC, SDXC, and SDUC based on their capacity. Furthermore, there is also the SD Express standard, which supports high-speed transfer.
Even if they look similar, compatible capacities, file systems, and usable devices can differ, so it's important to check the logo on the card itself and specifications of your device before purchasing.

[By standard] Types of SD cards and their differences

Differences between SD cards and microSD cards

When choosing an SD card, not only the capacity specification but also the card's shape is important. Generally, standard-sized SD cards are used in digital cameras and industrial equipment, while microSD cards are commonly used in smartphones, recorder, and action cameras.

[Important] How do you view speed? Understanding Speed Classes (Minimum Guaranteed Speed)

When looking at SD card speed, it's important not to judge solely by "maximum read speed" or "maximum write speed." Especially for continuous write applications such as video recording, drive recorder, surveillance cameras, and data logging, we check the speed class indicating the minimum guaranteed speed.

How to choose the right SD card or microSD card for your smartphone

When using a smartphone, you'll most likely use a microSD card rather than a standard-sized SD card. However, not all smartphones support microSD cards. Before purchasing, check the smartphone's specifications to see if it supports microSD, microSDHC, microSDXC, and its maximum capacity.

For Salespeople and Selection Managers: 5 Questions to Ask Customers

When introducing SD cards in stores or through corporate customer service, simply asking "How many GB do you need?" is insufficient. To prevent incorrect purchases and returns, it is crucial to confirm the device and intended use.

In sales situations, customer satisfaction increases when you can explain not only the capacity but also whether it's compatible with the device, whether it can withstand the intended use, and whether it can protect the data.

Factory/Measurement/Recording Applications: Selection and Operational Points (Avoiding Problems)

Point 1: Types of flash memory (SLC / pSLC / MLC / TLC / QLC)

There are several types of NAND flash memory inside SD cards. Generally, higher recording density tends to result in larger capacity and lower prices, but this tends to be disadvantageous in terms of rewrite lifespan and durability.
For industrial applications, it is important to select SLC, pSLC, industrial MLC/TLC, etc., according to the application, and to confirm the rewrite life, temperature range, data retention, and long-term availability.

Point 2: Plug-and-play operation and data preservation (measures against damage/loss)

• Always remove the device after the recording has stopped: Inserting or removing the device while write can cause file corruption or file system damage.
• Perform regular back up: SD cards are not suitable as the sole storage location for long-term data. Back up important data to a PC, server, or cloud storage.
• Establishing rules for regular replacement: SD cards are consumables. It is effective to manage the start date of use, the device used, and the scheduled replacement date, and replace them before errors occur.
• Thorough physical labeling: Clearly indicate the "start date of use," "measurement line name," "equipment name," and "capacity" to prevent mix-ups on-site.
• Standardize format procedure: If initialization on the device itself is recommended, format the device, not the PC.

Point 3: Security constraints on PCs/internal company environments

SDXC cards larger than 32GB are primarily in exFAT models. Depending on the operating system, security policies, external media restrictions, and virus check procedures of your company's PCs, there may be restrictions on read or transferring data.
In addition to the recording and measuring instruments, please also check the environment of the PC that will be used to acquire the data beforehand.

Point 4: Recommended memory settings for Chino recorders

When using SD cards with Chino hybrid recorders such as the AH4000 series and AL4000 series, please refer to the device's instruction manual and our recommended memory.
We have not tested SD cards that we do not sell, high-capacity SDHC/SDXC cards from other companies, or cards using microSD conversion adapters, so we cannot determine whether they will work or not.

[By purpose] How to choose the best SD card for you

*When using with Chino recorders, please check the equipment specifications and recommended memory modules that have been tested for compatibility.

Key points to consider when manufacturing and selecting industrial SD cards

Industrial SD cards are not just about having a large capacity or high speed; long-term, stable operation is also crucial. Manufacturers, equipment manufacturers, and quality assurance departments evaluate products from the following perspectives:

Reference information and documents to check

Even though SD cards may look similar, their compatibility varies depending on the standard, capacity, speed, file system, and device support. Please check the following information before purchasing or installing an SD card.

• Official information on SD/SDHC/SDXC/SDUC capacity classifications and speed classes from the SD Association.
• Instruction manuals, specifications, and compatible memory list for the equipment used.
• SD card manufacturer's product specifications, durability, warranty conditions, and operating temperature range.
• For business use, this includes rules for using external media on company PCs, security policies, and back up procedures.
• When using with Chino recorders, please refer to our recommended memory and specifications of the applicable models.