Memory Card Questions

[mwfanelli]

How do I figure out what speed memory card I need with my camera? There seem to be different speed ratings like "Class 4" and "150x". I'm going to get a Nikon D80 and I don't want my memory card slowing down my photo taking.

How are the SDHC cards? The D80 is compatible with them and they hold a lot of space. I can get an 8G SDHC card for $67. The D80 takes 8.6M RAW images and 3.6M high quality JPEG images. If I shoot all high quality jpeg, I could fit over 2000 images per 8G card. I don't think I'll shoot many raw images. On the other hand, maybe I shouldn't put all my eggs in one basket and get a bunch of separate smaller cards just in case.

Lastly, does temperature really affect memory cards? They are rated for certain temps, but I can't imagine cold temperatures hurting a solid state memory card. Electronics are supposed to run better in cold temps!

Look up the card speeds for your particular camera at:

http://www.robgalbraith.com/bins/mul...e.asp?cid=6007

Cold weather does not affect the cards themselves. The batteries in the camera will become weaker.

The only memory products I have had fail were made by Lexar. All other brands, including cheapies, are stil running after many years. There is a lifetime for them but few photographers ever reach it.

[mongoose]

Look up the card speeds for your particular camera at:

http://www.robgalbraith.com/bins/mul...e.asp?cid=6007

That's a great link, thanks! This will make finding a good card easier.