Glossary of SD & Micro SD Card Connector
Memory Card Connector Glossary
General Terms
1. Memory Card
A small, portable storage device used to store digital data, such as photos, videos, and applications.
2. Form Factors
Types and sizes of memory cards:
* SD (Secure Digital): Standard form, commonly used in cameras and devices.
* microSD: Compact version of SD cards, used in smartphones and IoT devices.
* miniSD: Rare, smaller than SD but larger than microSD.
* CompactFlash (CF): Larger, older cards for professional photography.
* CFast: Advanced CompactFlash with faster data speeds.
* UFS (Universal Flash Storage): High-speed memory for advanced devices.
3. Card Slot
The physical location where a memory card is inserted into a device.
Connector Types
1. Push-Push Connector
A mechanism where the memory card clicks into place when pushed and ejects when pushed again.
2. Push-Pull Connector
Requires manual insertion and removal of the card without spring-loaded assistance.
3. Hinged Connector
Features a flip-style mechanism to secure the card in place.
4. Hybrid Slot
A slot that can accommodate both memory cards and SIM cards, typically in mobile devices.
Electrical Features
1. Contact Pins
Metal terminals inside the connector that establish an electrical connection with the card.
2. Hot-Swappable
Allows users to insert or remove a memory card without powering off the device.
3. Write Protection
A feature available on some SD cards and connectors to prevent accidental data deletion.
4. High-Speed Bus Support
Compatibility with faster data transfer protocols like UHS (Ultra High Speed) or PCIe for UFS cards.
Mechanical Features
1. Cycle Durability
The number of insertion/removal cycles the connector can withstand without failure (e.g., 5,000–10,000 cycles).
2. Retention Force
The force required to keep the memory card securely in place during operation.
3. Low-Profile Design
Slim connectors designed for thin devices like tablets and ultrabooks.
Materials
1. Housing Material
The main body of the connector, typically made from high-temperature plastic or metal.
2. Contact Material
Gold-plated phosphor bronze or copper alloy for high conductivity and corrosion resistance.
3. Spring Mechanism
Used in push-push connectors to ensure smooth insertion and ejection.
Compliance & Standards
1. SD Association Standards
Governs the specifications for SD cards and compatible connectors.
2. UHS (Ultra High Speed)
Designates the speed class of SD cards and connectors:
* UHS-I, UHS-II, UHS-III.
3. V-Class (Video Speed)
Standards for video recording performance, such as V10, V30, V60, and V90.
4. RoHS Compliance
Ensures the connector is free of hazardous substances.
5. ESD Protection (Electrostatic Discharge)
Prevents damage to the card or connector caused by static electricity.
Applications
1. Consumer Electronics
Cameras, smartphones, tablets, and gaming consoles.
2. Industrial Devices
Data loggers, drones, and embedded systems.
3. Automotive
Navigation systems and infotainment units.
4. Professional Photography
High-speed memory cards for DSLR and mirrorless cameras.
