The Bottom Line
A memory card reader such as this one is a handy tool and allows you to share data from digital cameras, video cameras, PDAs and even cell phones. It's a quick and easy to move files and share with co-workers.
Pros
- Makes it easy to transfer files from a variety of sources.
- Supports 5 different memory card types.
- USB 2.0 transfer rate.
Cons
- Not compatible with older versions of Windows or Mac OS.
Description
- Capable of reading and writing to and from memory cards.
- Compatible with Memory Stick PRO™, Memory Stick™, SD™ Memory Card,MultiMediaCard™ and xD-Picture Card™;
- With a card adapter works with Memory Stick Duo™, Memory StickMicro™, miniSD™, microSD™, RS-MC™, MMCplus™, MMCmobile™.
- USB 2.0 High-Speed.
- Plug and play - no drivers needed.
- No external power required.
- Requires: Windows XP, Vista or Mac OS X and an available Express Card/34 or Express Card/54 slot.
- Dimensions: 34 x 75 x 5 mm.
- Weight: 15 g (.53 ounces).
Guide Review - Griffin ExpressCard 34 Card Reader
The ExpressCard/34 memory card reader is a great addition if you have a newer model laptop which has an ExpressCard slot. It will work with either ExpressCard/34 or /54 slots. The convenience it provides means you don't have to worry about carrying extra cables to connect your other mobile gear to your laptop. Simply take the memory card out and use the ExpressCard/34 reader to transfer the files.
File transfer in this method is normally much quicker than connecting cables (installing software) and then moving the files from one gadget to another.
Another nice advantage with the ExpressCard/34 card reader is you can write and read with it, so you can transfer files from your laptop to your PDA or cell phone.
Other than the fact that older model laptops don't have ExpressCard slots there isn't really any negatives to having the memory card reader. It's economically priced, easy to use and a simple way to move and share files.
You don't have to be concerned about having the latest or for that fact, any drivers for different gadgets to transfer files. You can even use the ExpressCard/34 to transfer files between your PocketPC to a Mac or from your Palm device to your Windows laptop. You could even use it as a quick method to share files between a Mac and Windows laptop. Then you don't have to worry about setting up networks when it may be just a one shot file transfer.
The ExpressCard/34 Memory Card Reader is a great addition to stash in your laptop bag and it certainly won't add any weight nor take up much space for all the benefits it can provide. If you have a newer laptop this is a recommended gadget to help make your life easier on the road.