SD Cards Go Ultra High Speed

Sonnet Technologies and Panasonic have announced products based on a new card technology which enables production teams to transfer files far more quickly from camera to edit or archive.
While a mature product such as a class 10 SDHC card can record and transfer files up-to 30 MB/s, UHS-I technology makes the leap to speeds in excess of 90 MB/s.
Panasonic's new SDHC UHS-I memory cards are designed with the professional user in mind, combining high speed of operation with reliability and durability. The cards incorporate a controller to protect data from sudden power failure, a refresh function to extend the archival life by over ten times, and smart data writing to minimise defects risk caused by intensive writing. They are also equipped with Proof 5 to withstand severe conditions (anti-water, shock, magnet, X-ray, temperature-proof -25oC to 85oC). The new 8GB, 16GB and 32GB versions will be available from the distributor, Holdan, from the end of June 2011.
Panasonic have also announced a USB 3.0 Reader/Writer. The reader gives high speed data transfer performance from UHS-I compliant cards into workstations. The BN-SDCMAB has two card slots, for full size SD and microSD cards. The new BN-SDCMAB will also be available end of June 2011.
In a parallel announcement, Sonnet Technologies have launched the SDXC UHS-I Pro Reader/Writer ExpressCard/34, which fits into a slot-equipped MacBook Pro or Windows notebook computer on location or in the studio. The ability to transfer data from the fastest professional SD media at speeds above 90 MB/s makes for a far more convenient and efficient workflow. Using the 2.5 Gb/s PCI express interface incorporated into ExpressCard Slots, the device offers performance superior to adapters that depend on a USB 2.0 interface. The adapter is available from Holdan.
Jill Keane, Product Specialist with Holdan, welcomed the new technology: "Whether crews are using one of multiple cameras, a fast turn-around from production to post is essential. UHS-I will make a real difference - the speed increases are very impressive indeed."
(KMcA)