SRAM vs. Flash Memory ..........What is the Difference?

Think of SRAM just like the RAM in your desktop PC- it’s fast, but SRAM is more expensive, it needs power to retain data, but it does not use much power. Some SRAM Memory Cards have one rechargeable battery that will last years, otherwise a battery lasts about 2 years, depending on useage.

Flash Memory is cheaper per megabyte, is available in larger capacities, doesn’t need power to retain data, but requires more power for writing. Flash Memory is slower than SRAM for reading and writing, although high speed flash memory cards are now in the market.

Linear Flash Memory vs. ATA Flash

Linear Flash...vs...Compact and ATA flash

Flash memory comes in 2 interface protocols....."ATA" and "Linear".

With ATA, the controller chip is on the card to handle write-erase algorithms. ATA emulates a hard drive and is an industry standard. Compact Flash used widely in digital cameras are ATA type flash memory card.

With "Linear", the write-erase algorithms are managed by computer based software called a Flash Filing System (FFS). Different FFS’s exist. Miniature flash is linear type flash.

Which is Best?

There is no easy answer as it depends on the application and budget. ATA is somewhat more expensive-costs have dropped dramatically, but independent tests have shown that in general ATA is higher performing. 

For instance, if a flash card is used with different systems or at different locations, ATA flash could avoid potential problems with different systems. Remember, ATA drivers are a standard.

"Linear" drivers work differently than ATA. They are often tied more closely to specific hardwares, and tests have shown that some "linear" flash cards perform better with one "linear" driver than another. In some cases where the flash card will be embedded with specific hardware architectures, "linear" may be the best.

 

ADDITIONAL TOPICS ABOUT MEMORY CARDS

 

INTRODUCTION

DESIRED FEATURES OF MEMORY CARDS

IMPORTANCE OF MEMORY CARDS

MEMORY CARD SOFTWARE

 

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