Sony has announced its new range of XQD memory cards, which support the recently adopted XQD specification for high-speed, high-performance digital image capture. Using the new cards, Nikon D4 camera users can capture up to approximately 100 frames in raw format in continuous shooting mode. Sony is also introducing a USB 2.0/3.0 compatible XQD card reader and an XQD ExpressCard Adapter. The new family of XQD Memory Cards by Sony is available from end of January.

Sony Press Release

Sony unveils new high-speedXQD™*1 memory cards

1Gbps*2 for faster write speed and superb reliability create new possibilities for advanced photographers

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 compatiblehigh-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,” said Andreas Georghiades, Product Manager, Sony UK. “These XQD cards give a whole new meaning to speed and performance for digital imaging enthusiasts.”

Professional photographers demand ultimate performance and reliability and with its ultra high write-speed capability, XQD cards are an excellent option. An example of this is 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 inspeed 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”, added Andreas Georghiades.

The new family of XQD™ Memory Cards by Sony is available from end of January.

For more information on the XQD Sony memory card please click here.
For more information on this new format please see the Compact Flash Association announcement here.

*1 The new Sony cards are based on the XQD memory card specification, which CompactFlash Association recently approved as an open format licensed from CFA.
*2 1Gbps (125MB/s) speeds are based on Sony testing; speed may vary upon measurement condition.
*3 When used with Nikon “D4”, with capture of compressed 12-bit NEF (RAW) images. Based on Nikon research.
*XQD is a trademark of Sony Corporation
*4 PCI Express (PCIe) is a serial interface, a computer expansion card standard.

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