Are memory cards safe next to a magnet?

[opus]

My purse has two magnetic closures. I often tuck my powershot into my purse. Will the magnets on my purse erase my memory card?


on a related subject, will they wreak havoc with my phone too?

Thanks,
Kelly

[Peter_AUS]

I would say no. The magnet you are talking about isn't that stong a field to really be of any concern. It is also a different media you are talking about compared to floppy disks being near magnets. They were a good way of completely clearing a floppy disk years ago.

[Arctirus]

I would say test it. Take some meaningless photos and place your memory card next to a slightly stronger magnet for an extended period of time. If you then have no problems you don't need to worry about a lesser challenge.

[qball]

Magnets...hmm


We did an experiment a while ago about wallets with magnetic clasps, especially with credit cards. Even after leaving the card between the wallet's magnets for 24 hours it still worked.

I think you would be safe from losing data on your card, as long as you keep it in the camera. Your phone should also not be affected.

[Sebastian]

Kelly,

Our Powerbooks use a magnetic switch to turn off the monitor when the lid closes. Many people use magnets that they place near the keyboard to shut down the monitor without actually closing the lid.

Many PDA and cell phone cases use magnetic clasps and there have never been issues.

You will be fine.

[opus]

Thanks. The magnets on my purse are actually pretty powerful ... sometimes I find a pen sticking to the side of my purse.


My phone constantly shutting itself off must be a different issue, then.

[Peter_AUS]

You phone constantly shutting off, could be a battery seating issue, where the battery shifts enough to not make contact correctly, this happens on an old Nokia 5110 that I have given to my eldest daughter recently as emergency only phone, even though it is in a case it can still shift enough to turn the phone off, but it will do for the time being.

[almo]

Thanks. The magnets on my purse are actually pretty powerful ... sometimes I find a pen sticking to the side of my purse.

'Bout as safe as you are next to me....;)