PHOTOKINA 2014: 4K-ready memory cards debut. With broadcasters and electronic newsgatherers starting to record 4K video, the demand for more storage and faster transfer speeds is unprecedented. SanDisk at Photokina debuted several products to meet these needs, including a 512GB SDXC memory card, a new CFast 2.0 memory card with up to 450 MB/s transfer rates, and what they’re calling the world’s fastest microSDXC memory card—all designed with 4K in mind.
SanDisk Extreme Pro CFast 2.0 and Extreme Pro SSD memory Cards
The upgraded SanDisk Extreme PRO CFast 2.0 card has been designed to power the next generation of high-performance cameras and camcorders, many of which are being announced this week at Photokina. The 128GB card delivers shot speed of up to 440MB/s and data transfer speeds of up to 515MB/s* for extreme workflow efficiency. Additionally, the SanDisk Extreme PRO CFast 2.0 card combines the speed, capacity and performance needed to record cinema-quality 4K video (4096x2160p) in storage capacities of 120GB and 60GB.
For professionals looking to store and edit 4K video, SanDisk says its Extreme PRO SSDs will deliver up to 550 MB/s sequential read speeds that give professionals consistent performance for the most demanding and graphic-intensive applications. The SanDisk Extreme PRO SSD is designed to work with large files, such as 4K Ultra HD1, because it delivers the necessary speeds and data safety.
Leading motion picture equipment manufacturer ARRI has named the SanDisk Extreme PRO CFast 2.0 card as its card of choice for its ALEXA and AMIRA cameras.
The SanDisk Extreme Pro CFast memory card line will be available at Adorama starting in October. SanDisk Extreme Pro SSDs should be available now. The SanDisk Extreme Pro CFast 120GB card runs $1,199, while the SanDisk Extreme Pro CFast60GB card can be ordered now for $649. A compatible SanDisk Extreme Pro CFast 2.0 Reader/Writer, with up to 500MBps data transfer rate, costs $109.
Extreme Pro SDXC UHS-1 Memory Card
Meet the world’s highest-capacity SD memory card. The 512GB (yes, that’s Gigabites, not megabites) is designed to meet the demands of industry professionals shooting 4K Ultra High Definition and Full HD video, as well as still photographers who want uninterrupted high-speed, high-resolution burst mode photography.
Representing a 1,000-fold increase in capacity over the 512MB SD card of 2003, the 512 delivers write speeds up to 90 MB/s, UHS 3 Class 10 recording speed for high resolution, real-world color and stutter-free 4K Ultra HD video. Transfer speeds up to 95 MB/s* move data quickly for efficient post-production workflow.
The SanDisk Extreme Pro SDXC UHS-1 Card is also able to deliver similar performance. Both are built and tested in harsh conditions and are said to be temperature proof, waterproof, shock proof and x-ray proof. The SanDisk 512 Extreme Pro SDXC UHS-1 card is available at Adorama for $729.
World’s Fastest microSD card
Finally, SanDisk announced the Extreme Pro microSDXC UHS-1 card, which they boast is the world’s fastest microSD card and, at 64GB, the highest capacity as well. Designed for handheld camcorders and action cams, the card is also a viable option for the current and next generation of smart phones.
The SanDisk Extreme PRO microSDXC UHS-I card has enough speed and storage to address consumers’ desire to generate high quality 4K Ultra HD content. With transfer speeds of up to 95MB/s*, users can shoot like a pro and still experience world-class responsiveness from their smartphone, tablet or action camera. The card also features Class 10 and UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) ratings, which are recommended by the SD Association for 4K Ultra HD video capture. Look for it soon at the Adorama SanDisk Memory Card dept.
