[Flash Card Basic] What are the different capacity standards for SD and MicroSD cards?

The SD Association defines different capacity standards that dictate the maximum storage capacity and often the compatible file system. Your device must support the specific standard of the card you intend to use.

• SD (Standard Capacity):
  • Capacity: Up to 2GB.
  • File System: FAT16.
  • Compatibility: Most widely compatible with older devices.
• SDHC (Secure Digital High Capacity):
  • Capacity: 4GB to 32GB.
  • File System: FAT32.
  • Compatibility: Supported by most modern devices. An SDHC card is not backward compatible with devices that only support standard SD cards. You need an SDHC-compatible device.
• SDXC (Secure Digital eXtended Capacity):
  • Capacity: 64GB to 2TB (Terabytes).
  • File System: exFAT.
  • Compatibility: Supported by newer devices. An SDXC card is not backward compatible with devices that only support SD or SDHC cards. You need an SDXC-compatible device.
• SDUC (Secure Digital Ultra Capacity):
  • Capacity: 2TB to 128TB.
  • File System: exFAT.
  • Compatibility: This is the latest standard, currently emerging in high-end applications.

Important Note: Always check your device's manual or manufacturer's website to confirm the maximum SD card capacity and type it supports before purchasing a new card. Using an incompatible card may lead to data corruption or the card not being recognized.