Chapter 1
Comparing SD card types and features
SD cards are categorized into SD (SDSC), SDHC, SDXC, and SDUC based on their capacity. There is also a high-speed transfer standard called SD Express.
Even if they look similar, the supported capacity, file system, and compatible devices may differ, so it's important to check not only the markings on the card itself but also specifications of the device you'll be using.
| standard | Capacity range | Main file systems | Main Applications | Points to note for industrial applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SD (SDSC) | Up to 2GB | FAT12 / FAT16 | Old digital equipment, legacy equipment | Some older measuring instruments and recorders may still require maintenance. |
| SDHC | More than 2GB ~ 32GB | FAT32 | General data storage, video, measurement data | The maximum capacity may be limited depending on the device. |
| SDXC | More than 32GB ~ 2TB | exFAT | Large-capacity data storage, long-duration recording | You need to check if the device supports SDXC and exFAT. |
| SDUC | More than 2TB to 128TB | exFAT | Ultra-large capacity data storage | Because compatible devices are limited, we will verify compatibility, maintainability, and long-term supply. |
| SD Express | Supports SDXC/SDUC capacity categories. | exFAT | high-speed data processing | Check the host's SD Express compatibility, heat generation, power consumption, etc. |
- In addition to the maximum transfer speed, check the speed class for continuous write.
- The first things to check are the device's supported standards, maximum capacity, and file system.
- While microSD cards can sometimes be used with adapters, their operation is not guaranteed on all devices.
Chapter 2
5 points you should definitely check before purchasing
-
Check the device's supported standards and maximum capacity.
Check the instruction manual or specifications sheet to confirm the supported formats such as SD, SDHC, SDXC, and microSD, as well as the maximum capacity. -
Check the shape of the card.
Check whether it's a standard-sized SD card or a microSD card. -
Check the minimum write speed required for your intended use.
For applications requiring continuous write, check the speed class. -
Check the file system
SDHC cards primarily use FAT32, while SDXC and SDUC cards primarily use exFAT. Older devices may not support exFAT. -
Check the operating environment and durability.
For applications such as factories, outdoor use, automotive applications, surveillance cameras, and continuous logging, we also check temperature range, rewrite lifespan, vibration resistance, and long-term supply availability.
A new SD card or a high-capacity card isn't always the best option. The basic principle is to "choose a card with the appropriate capacity, speed, and durability for your needs from among the cards that your device supports."
If you are using a Chino recorder
For Chino's AH4000 series / AL4000 series hybrid recorders, we recommend using our verified and recommended memory modules.
SD cards not sold by our company, SDHC/SDXC cards from other manufacturers, microSD adapters, and high-capacity cards may not be tested, so please check the recommended memory for your device.
Chapter 3
Differences between SD card standards
1. SD (SDSC) card
SD (SDSC) is an early SD card standard. With a maximum capacity of 2GB, it's not mainstream for general consumer use, but it may be necessary for older digital devices and measuring instruments.
- Capacity: up to 2GB
- Main file systems: FAT12 / FAT16
- Main uses: Old digital equipment, legacy equipment
- Note: Due to limited market availability, it is important to check with the equipment manufacturer when selecting a replacement.
2. SDHC card
SDHC stands for "Secure Digital High Capacity," and it is a standard that supports capacities from 2GB up to 32GB. It is used in a wide range of devices, such as digital cameras and data loggers.
- Capacity: More than 2GB ~ 32GB
- Main file system: FAT32
- Main uses: Photo, video, general data storage, measurement data
- Note: Even with SDHC-compatible devices, the maximum capacity may be limited.
3. SDXC card
SDXC stands for "Secure Digital eXtended Capacity," and it is a standard that supports capacities exceeding 32GB up to 2TB. It is used for storing large amounts of data and for long-term recording.
- Capacity: More than 32GB ~ 2TB
- Main file system: exFAT
- Main uses: Large-capacity data storage, long-term recording
- Note: You need to check if the device supports SDXC and exFAT formats.
4. SDUC card
SDUC stands for "Secure Digital Ultra Capacity," a standard that supports capacities exceeding 2TB up to 128TB. Because compatible devices are limited, checking device compatibility is especially important for measurement applications.
- Capacity: More than 2TB ~ 128TB
- Main file system: exFAT
- Intended use: Ultra-high capacity data storage
- Points to note: Check compatible equipment, maintainability, and long-term supply.
5. SD Express Cards
SD Express is a standard that allows the use of PCIe/NVMe-based high-speed interfaces while utilizing the form factor of an SD card. It is effective for applications requiring high-speed data processing, but host device support is necessary to achieve its full performance.
- Capacity: Supports SDXC or SDUC capacity categories.
- Main applications: high-speed data processing, professional video, etc.
- Points to note: Check host-side compatibility, heat generation, power requirements, etc.
Chapter 4
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. Standard-sized SD cards and microSD cards are used in different devices.
| Kinds | Main equipment used | Features | Points to note |
|---|---|---|---|
| SD Card | Digital cameras, PCs, industrial recorders, measuring instruments | Its standard size makes it easy to handle, and it is also used in industrial equipment. | It usually cannot be used directly on smartphones. |
| microSD Card | Smartphones, recorder, surveillance cameras, etc. | It's small and can sometimes be used with an SD card slot using an adapter. | When using a conversion adapter, you need to confirm that the device itself is guaranteed to work. |
When handling important measurement data, prioritize the card type and recommended product designate by the equipment manufacturer, not just the shape.
Chapter 5
How to interpret SD card speeds? Understanding speed classes.
When checking SD card speed, it is 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, check the speed class that indicates the minimum continuous access performance.
| class | Example | Minimum guideline for continuous access performance | Main Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speed Class | C2 / C4 / C6 / C10 | 2-10 MB/s | General data storage, video |
| UHS Speed Class | U1 / U3 | 10 / 30 MB/s | Continuous write, video |
| Video Speed Class | V10 / V30 / V60 / V90 | 10-90 MB/s | 4K, 8K and other video formats |
| application Performance Class | A1 / A2 | App performance metrics | Using apps on smartphones, etc. |
| SD Express Speed Class | E150 / E300 / E450 / E600 | 150–600 MB/s | SD Express compatible devices |
- For saving photos and general files, aim for Class 10 / U1 or similar.
- For continuous write 4K video, etc., U3 / V30 or higher is a good guideline.
- Factory data logging: Prioritize the conditions designate by the equipment manufacturer.
Chapter 6
How to choose the right SD card or microSD card for your smartphone
When using it with a smartphone, most smartphones use a microSD card rather than a standard-sized SD card. However, not all smartphones support microSD cards.
| How to use | Concept of Capacity | The concept of speed |
|---|---|---|
| Photos, music, documents | Select according to device specifications and storage requirements. | Class 10 / U1 etc. |
| Video recording | Select according to recording time and device specifications. | U3 / V30 etc. |
| App usage | Select according to specifications of the device and OS. | Check the A1/A2 notation. |
Points to note for smartphones
- Check if the device supports microSD cards.
- The maximum supported capacity varies depending on the model.
- Some devices and operating systems do not allow apps to be moved to the SD card.
- back up important photos and videos to your PC or cloud storage.
Chapter 7
Five things to check when selecting an SD card
When choosing an SD card, it's important to consider the device and intended use beforehand, rather than just looking at the capacity.
-
Which device will you be using it with?
We will check smartphones, cameras, surveillance cameras, measuring instruments, recorders, etc. -
What are the compatible standards and maximum capacity of the device?
Check specifications to confirm compatible standards and capacities, so you don't choose an SDXC card for a device that only supports SDHC. -
What do you want to save?
The required speed and capacity vary depending on the application, such as photos, videos, apps, and measurement data. -
Are there consecutive write?
For surveillance cameras, recorder, data loggers, etc., we check the required write performance and durability. -
Is this for business use or important data?
If data loss or equipment downtime becomes a problem, consider using equipment manufacturer-recommended cards or cards designed for industrial applications.
Chapter 8
SD card selection for factory, measurement, and recording applications
For factory and measurement/recording applications, the key factors are: "Can it be recognized?", "Can it record continuously?", "Will it not lose data?", and "Can it operate stably over the long term?". Compatibility with equipment and stability are prioritized over large capacity and high-speed.
Think of it as the entire recording system, not just the SD card itself.
When using SD cards with measuring instruments or recorders, you should check not only the card's capacity and speed, but also recording intervals, storage period, data retrieval method, operating environment, and back up method.
When recording particularly important data over long periods, it's crucial to prioritize memory cards that have been tested and confirmed to work with actual equipment, rather than simply cards that are "compatible according to the specifications."
Types of flash memory
There are multiple types of NAND flash memory inside SD cards, differing in recording density, capacity, price, and durability. However, product reliability is not solely determined by classifications such as SLC, pSLC, MLC, and TLC. In reality, the entire product needs to be checked, including the controller, wear leveling, error correction, power failure protection, and temperature specifications.
| Examples of methods | General characteristics | Concept of Use |
|---|---|---|
| SLC | High durability and high reliability are often prioritized. | Critical data, demanding industrial applications, etc. |
| pSLC | Some products improve durability by using NAND flash memory at a level equivalent to SLC (Single-Laminated Cell) technology. | Industrial logging, in-vehicle applications, monitoring, etc. |
| MLC | A system that easily balances capacity and durability. | Business use, write at a certain frequency, etc. |
| TLC / QLC | A method that allows for high capacity and low cost. | Photos, videos, general data storage, etc. |
Things to be aware of when using an SD card
- Remove after the recording has stopped.
- Important data should be back up to a PC, server, etc.
- Manage the start date of use and replacement schedule.
- Label cards to prevent mix-ups.
- If format is recommended on the device itself, initialization on the device, not on the PC.
Check the PC and company environment.
When using an SD card to retrieve data, you need to check the operating system of the PC you are using, external media restrictions, security policies, and virus checks.
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 instruction manual for the applicable model and our recommended memory.
Since SD cards not sold by our company, high-capacity SDHC/SDXC cards from other manufacturers, and cards using microSD adapters may not be tested, we recommend using our recommended memory cards from the perspective of guaranteeing proper operation.
To users of Chino recorders
If you know the model you are currently using, please check the model number and then check the recommended memory. If you are selecting a recorder from scratch, consider the equipment based on factors such as "what to record," "recording intervals," and "storage period."
Chapter 9
How to choose an SD card based on your purpose
| Target audience/purpose | Recommended Standards | Concept of Capacity | The concept of speed | point |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General photos and office data | SDHC / SDXC | Select according to your intended use. | Class 10 / U1 etc. | Important data is back up |
| smartphone | micro SDHC / micro SDXC | Match specifications of your smartphone. | U1/U3, or A1/A2 for apps. | Check the maximum supported capacity. |
| 4K video and high-speed continuous shooting | SDXC | Select according to your intended use. | U3 / V30 and above, etc. | Emphasis on continuous write performance |
| recorder and surveillance cameras | micro SDHC / micro SDXC | Select according to recording time | Check the required speed and durability. | Tested resistance to repeated overwriting. |
| Chino recorder | Our recommended memory | Complies with model specifications and recommended products. | Complies with model specifications and recommended products. | Use verified recommended memory. |
| Factory equipment and continuous data logging | Compliant with device specifications | Selection based on recording intervals and retention period. | Match to equipment specifications and applications | Considering cards for high-durability and industrial applications. |
| Industrial PCs and Image Inspection | SDXC / SDExpress etc. | Selected based on data volume | Select based on required transfer speed. | Check host-side compatibility, heat generation, and long-term supply. |
*When using with Chino recorders, please check specifications of the applicable model and the recommended memory that has been tested for compatibility.
Chapter 10
Key points to consider when selecting industrial SD cards
"Industrial SD cards" is not a classification representing a capacity standard of the SD Association. Generally, it refers to a group of products designed with industrial use in mind, taking into account durability, operating environment, long-term supply, and data preservation.
Therefore, it is important not to judge solely based on the label "industrial use," but to check specifications necessary for the actual application, such as the usage environment and write frequency.
| Evaluation items | Confirmation details | Why it's important |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Rewrite lifespan, TBW, wear leveling, ECC, etc. | Because the difference will be apparent with continuous logging and repeated write. |
| Temperature range | Operating temperature, storage temperature, facility environment | Stable operation in high and low temperature environments is important. |
| Long term availability | Supply period for the same model, EOL notification, etc. | Industrial equipment sometimes uses the same components for extended periods. |
| Data integrity | Power outage protection, protection during write interruptions, etc. | To minimize data corruption during momentary power interruptions or abnormal terminations. |
| Compatibility Verification | Recognition, write, and read on the target device. | Even with the same specifications, there are differences depending on the combination with the equipment. |
For industrial applications, it's important to consider not only price and capacity, but also whether the equipment can be used reliably, whether it can be operated for a long period, and whether the cause of any problems can be traced.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions about SD Cards
What are the differences between SD cards, SDHC cards, and SDXC cards?
The main differences are the supported capacity and file system. SD cards support up to 2GB, SDHC cards support over 2GB to 32GB, and SDXC cards support over 32GB to 2TB. SDHC cards mainly use FAT32, while SDXC cards mainly use exFAT.
Can I use an SDXC card with an SDHC-compatible device?
If your device only supports SDHC cards, an SDXC card may not be recognized or function correctly. Always check the device's instruction manual or specifications to confirm supported standards.
Can a microSD card be used as a substitute for an SD card?
While SD card adapters may work in some cases, their operation is not guaranteed for all devices. Especially with industrial equipment and recorders, please prioritize the manufacturer's recommendations.
Which SD card should I choose for my smartphone?
Many smartphones use microSD cards, but first, check if your device supports microSD cards and what the maximum supported capacity is. For video, check U3 or V30, and for app usage, check A1 or A2.
Is it sufficient to only look at the "maximum XX MB/s" speed?
No. For continuous write applications, it's important to check the speed class, which indicates the minimum continuous access performance. Check not only the maximum transfer speed, but also write performance required for your intended use.
What is the difference between industrial-grade SD cards and consumer-grade SD cards?
Industrial SD cards are a category of products designed by manufacturers specifically for industrial applications, separate from the SD Association's capacity standards. Emphasis is placed on durability, operating temperature range, long-term availability, data integrity, and compatibility verification.
Which SD card should I choose for my data logger or recorder?
First, check the compatible standards, capacities, and recommended products designate by the equipment manufacturer. For continuous recording and saving important data, consider the equipment manufacturer's recommended memory or industrial-grade cards.
Do SD cards need to be replaced regularly?
SD cards are consumables. They deteriorate depending on the number of write cycles, operating temperature, and frequency of insertion and removal, so if you are handling important data, it is effective to establish regular back up and replacement rules.
What are some things to keep in mind when format an SD card?
If your device has format function, it is generally recommended to format using the device itself. format on a PC may result in the device being in an unintended models and may not be recognized.
Can I use third-party SD cards with Chino's AH4000 and AL4000 cameras?
For the AH4000 and AL4000 series, we recommend using Chino's verified recommended memory. Since memory from other manufacturers may not be verified, please check the recommended memory for your specific model.
Reference information
Documents to review before purchase/implementation
- SD standards and capacity classification information from the SD Association.
- Speed class information from the SD Association
- Instruction manuals, specifications, and compatible memory list for the equipment used.
- SD card manufacturer's product specifications, durability, and warranty conditions
- For business use, please refer to the company's rules and security policies regarding the use of external media on internal PCs.
- When using a Chino recorder, please refer to the recommended memory information for the applicable model.
Summary
Final checks to avoid making a mistake when choosing an SD card
When choosing an SD card, it's important to check three things: ① the specifications and maximum capacity supported by the device, ② the speed that suits your intended use, and ③ the durability that suits your usage environment.
-
Check compatibility
Check specifications table in the instruction manual to confirm compatible standards, maximum capacity, and compatible memory modules. -
Check the speed that suits your needs.
Check the speed class according to your intended use, such as photo storage, video recording, or continuous logging. -
For industrial applications, durability must be confirmed.
For continuous operation, continuous logging, automotive, outdoor, and factory equipment applications, consider high-durability or industrial-grade cards. -
Check the recommended memory for Chino equipment.
If you are using the AH4000, AL4000 series, etc., please check the recommended memory that has been verified for the applicable model.
Please proceed to the next piece of information you would like to check regarding your SD card.
The next information you should check will vary depending on the equipment and purpose you are using. If you are using a Chino recorder, please check the model number and then check the recommended memory.
Related Products
Related product
AL4000 Dot printing type
This is Chino's hybrid data recorder series, which supports data storage using SD cards.
AL4000 Pen type
This is hybrid recorder that is relevant when considering how to manage recorded data.
AH4000 Dot printing type
This is a related product for checking the recommended memory settings for use with Chino recorders.
AH4000 Pen format
This is hybrid recorder relevant when considering the storage and management of recorded data.
