A memory card reader connects to the USB port on a computer. Many newer computers and notebooks have built-in card readers.

Upon inserting a memory card into its slot, images are transferred from devices such as digital cameras, video camcorders and MP3 players.

Depending on your operating system, you may have to install a driver for the card. For some operating systems no driver is required. The driver comes with the card reader or can be downloaded from the manufacturer’s website.

Memory card readers come in two styles:

• those for a single type of memory card
• multi-card readers that accept several different types of cards.

When purchasing a card reader designed for the faster USB 2 ports, make sure it is backwards compatible to USB 1 if you don’t have an USB 2 port on your computer.

Advantages of using memory card readers

The main advantage of using a memory card reader, rather than the camera cable, is that you will not put additional drain on the camera batteries. Using a card reader can also reduce wear and tear on the hinges and the terminals within the cameras memory card compartment.

Some card readers transfer images to a computer faster than transfers using a digital camera.

Use a memory card reader correctly

Always check that you are inserting the memory card correctly. You shouldn’t have to use force to get a card into a reader. If a card is inserted backwards or upside down, it can cause damage to a camera, card reader or the card itself.

Never remove a memory card, or disconnect the reader or camera cable, while images are being transferred to your computer or other storage device. Besides possibly losing images, you could possible corrupt the card.

Note: if your camera uses xD picture cards, make sure a memory card reader matches the type (eg. Type M, Type H).