Hobbies And Interests
Image Transfer Speeds
A media card reader allows for images to transfer from the card to your computer at a faster rate. The devices are designed to move images faster than the camera. Though both the camera and the card reader use a USB connection, the camera takes more time to access and transfer the data than the card reader. When attached, the card reader allows the media card to function as an external hard drive, so the computer is reading the data directly through the card reader, rather through the camera's internal computing devices.
Large Quantity Transfers
When transferring a large volume of images to the computer, the card reader allows for the images to travel at faster rates than from the camera. If you're only transferring several photos at a time, the transfer rates are not a major concern. But if you are moving hundreds or thousands of images and they are large in file size, the transfer from a camera to a computer could take hours. This time is drastically shorter with a card reader. A multitude of factors will effect the transfer rate, including the type of media card used, the speed of the connection wires of the external devices to your computer and your computer's processing capabilities. A newer card reader with a USB 3.0 connection can transfer 5 GB of data in 26 seconds. In comparison, a digital camera with a faster fire-wire connection can transfer images to the computer at a rate of approximately 500 kilobytes per second.
Camera Connection Issues
Connecting a camera to a computer can also create additional problems in communication between the two devices. Connecting a camera to your computer will require additional software installations for the two devices to communicate properly, and each camera will use a specialized connection cord. Connecting the camera to your computer also drains the battery power of the camera, which can pose a problem during long image transfers. If the transfer between the computer and camera becomes disrupted, by an accidental removal of the device or a dead battery while images are transferring, damage can occur to the camera's internal computer. This may also cause harm to the digital photos and destroy the data in the images.
External Storage Device
When necessary, the media card can serve as a backup data storage device when a card reader is used. When attached, the computer recognizes the media card as an external hard drive. Simply reverse the transfer process and add files to the card from your computer. This is great backup if you need to transfer data files between computers or keep important documents with you while traveling. If you will be transferring files between computers, be sure to keep your card reader nearby, as some computers will not have built-in card readers. If you anticipate using media cards in this capacity, purchase a card reader that travels well, is small in size and does not contain long or multiple connection cords.