A New Global Memory Card Standard

A new type of memory format called the 'miCard' (Multiple Interface Card) has been approved by the Multimedia Card Association (MMCA) as a global memory standard, say reports.

The 'miCard' which has been developed by Taiwan-based Industrial Technology Research Institute, is designed to work in small consumer gadgets such as digital cameras, mobile phones, and any device with a USB plug.

The card has been developed, reportedly, to make transferring data between gadgets and PCs easier. It is USB 2.0 compatible and can transfer data at 480 Mbits per second. Initially, the 'miCard' will be able to store 8GB of data, but the maximum capacity is expected to top out around 2,048GB.

The 12mm wide and 1.95mm thick 'miCard' is smaller than regular Multi Media Cards (MMC), so it will require an adaptor for MMC-compliant devices. However, the company anticipates that future devices will be able to directly accept the miCard.

Besides, compatibility with both USB and MMC slots eliminates the need for an external card reader.

According to Yves Leonard, Chairman of MMCA, they have developed the 'miCard' specification to provide manufacturers a solution that is adaptable and convenient for consumers. Adding USB 2.0 capability to a memory card provides an interface that is compatible with existing products, and widely recognized by general consumers.

The 'miCard' is expected to be available globally by the third quarter of this year.