With data transfer speeds up to 1 Gbps anda 125MB/s read-write speed, Sony has unveiled the world’s first XQD cards. The Nikon D4 is the only camera announced so far that will accept the new format, but with PMA@CES starting January 10, that is almost certain to change quickly. The new cards will be available in 16 and 32GB capacities. In addition, Sony has introduced a USB 2.0/3.0 compatible XQD card reader. The new cards will be available later this month. Pricing was not announced.
For details, read the unedited Sony press release below:Sony unveils new high-speed XQD™*1 memory cards1Gbps*2 for faster write speed and superb reliability create new possibilities for advanced photographers06 January 2012 — Giving photo enthusiasts and professional photographers a new level of speed and performance, the new range of XQD memory cards by Sony supports the recently adopted XQD specification for high-speed, high-performance digital image capture. Using the new cards, XQD compatible high-end DSLR (Digital Single Lens Reflex) users can capture up to approximately 100 frames in RAW format*3 in continuous shooting mode. In addition to outstanding high-speed data transfer capability, the cards are highly reliable to protect users’ data and images.“Advanced photographers want to capture the moment in the highest quality possible, and that often means dealing with massive files like RAW images,” says Benoit Delfau, European Marketing Manager, Sony Media & Peripherals Europe (MPE). “These XQD cards give a whole new meaning to speed and performance for digital imaging enthusiasts.”Sony XQD cards in 16GB capacity. Photo provided by Sony Corp. Click for a bigger picture! Sony XQD cards in 32GB capacity. Photo provided by Sony Corp. Click for a bigger picture!Sony XQD cards in 16GB (left) and 32GB (right) capacities.Photos provided by Sony Corp.With its ultra-high write speed performance, and when using with Nikon’s new DSLR “D4”, XQD memory cards can record approximately up to 100 frames in RAW format*3 in continuous shooting mode.XQD memory cards achieves stable continuous shooting of RAW images and blazing fast data transfer rates (up to 1Gbps; 125MB/s, write and read) through the PCIe*4 interface. A unique controller and optimised flash memory enables high-speed data processing, resulting in faster write speed and performance that can’t be achieved by conventional compact flash cards.Sony is also introducing a USB 2.0/3.0 compatible XQD card reader (model MRW-E80) so users can quickly and easily transfer large quantities of very high capacity data to their PC. Also, an XQD ExpressCard Adapter (QDA-EX1) will be available for use with computers with an ExpressCard™ 34 card slot.“As users’ needs continue to evolve, Sony will also continue to enhance the XQD memory card line-up to meet the future requirements of the high-end digital imaging market”, adds Benoit Delfau.The new family of XQD™ Memory Cards by Sony is available from end of January.
