Eye-fi - card with endless memory. Changing a regular SD card to an Eye-Fi memory card Eye cards

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The first thing I remembered when I got acquainted with the hero of today’s review was the well-known phrase: “What has technology come to!” Indeed, the ability to merge technologies is very exciting. SanDisk has pleased us with the creation of a wireless flash drive called Eye-Fi, which allows you to automatically transfer just taken pictures and videos to your computer, as well as publish them on social networks. Today, the hobby of photography is very popular; every person is familiar with the basics of photography. I think the regular process of manually transferring images from the drive to the computer is tiring for many. Now, thanks to the SanDisk Eye-Fi memory card, it is possible to wirelessly teleport images and videos from the camera to a PC using the Wi-Fi module built into the card. This card is powered directly from the camera, its operation does not depend on the characteristics of the device, it can function perfectly both in a DSLR and in a simple point-and-shoot camera. In general, the device is clearly impressive, we will continue to get to know it further in this review.

Specifications

Manufacturer: Sandisk

Type: Secure Digital HC

Memory capacity: 8 GB

Speed class: Class 4

Additionally: built-in Wi-Fi adapter

Format: FAT 32

Supply voltage: 3.3 V

IEEE 802.11b standard: Yes

IEEE 802.11g standard: Yes

IEEE 802.11n standard: Yes

Retractable protection tongue: Yes

Color: red

Card size: 3.2x2.4 cm

Package size: 12.5×10×1.5 cm

Packaging and equipment

The device is delivered to the market in a very compact box made of fairly high-quality cardboard.

Equipment:

SanDisk Eye-Fi Card

Memory card reader

Brief instructions

Externally

SanDisk Eye-Fi memory is no different from a regular SD memory card and is a rectangular plate.

The device is made of matte red plastic, thanks to which the card cannot be confused with ordinary cards. The front side contains a sticker with the name and some information about the model. The left edge of the device contains a retractable security tab.

The body of the card reader included in the kit is made of matte white plastic.

On the front panel there is only the manufacturer's name.

The back side contains a sticker with information about the device.

It is worth noting that the card reader is quite large.

Both devices are made of high-quality materials, there are no complaints about assembly.

In progress

The device is very easy to use; for successful operation it is worth making some settings. Initially, you need to register on the www.eye.fi service, then install the software from the card using a card reader: insert the device into a free USB port and carry out the installation.

You can make changes to the Wi-Fi module configuration only with a local connection. Eye-Fi Center is a convenient panel for configuring your wireless device. So, after completing these simple steps, the card is completely ready for use in a camera or video camera. The device is able to connect to both the only “safe” and the first available wireless network.

Notifications about new photos will be sent by mail or SMS, as well as through social services Twitter and Facebook. If the connection is lost, the copying will be delayed until the next time the connection is established. Also, if the space on the card runs out, the old photos are automatically transferred to the computer and the space is replaced with new ones - a very convenient function of endless memory. Files can be transferred not only to a PC, but also to a tablet or smartphone, which is very convenient to use, because at any time you can transfer pictures to a handy device and not worry about free space on the card.

The transfer of images to the computer is carried out instantly, I did not notice any slowdown in the process or long transfer of even heavy files. Reading through the standard adapter is at 16.5 MB/s, and writing is 11.5 MB/s.

Bottom line

The SanDisk Eye-Fi + Wi-Fi (SDHC) 8 Gb memory is an amazingly convenient device that can make life easier for people who at least occasionally engage in photography. The features of the device include wireless transfer of photos and videos from the camera to a PC, tablet or smartphone. A great tool for automatically backing up, organizing and sharing your photos and videos. It is very convenient to use the gadget while traveling. The price of the card is around 3,000 rubles, which is several times higher than that of traditional SDHC media, however, once you buy it, you will forever forget about the lack of space - it is clear that the new SanDisk product is worth the money.

Specifications

Manufacturer: Sandisk

Type: Secure Digital HC

Memory capacity: 8 GB

Speed class: Class 4

Additionally: built-in Wi-Fi adapter

Format: FAT 32

Supply voltage: 3.3 V

IEEE 802.11b standard: Yes

IEEE 802.11g standard: Yes

IEEE 802.11n standard: Yes

Retractable protection tongue: Yes

Color: red

Card size: 3.2x2.4 cm

Package size: 12.5×10×1.5 cm

Packaging and equipment

The device is delivered to the market in a very compact box made of fairly high-quality cardboard.

Equipment:

SanDisk Eye-Fi Card

Memory card reader

Brief instructions

Externally

SanDisk Eye-Fi memory is no different from a regular SD memory card and is a rectangular plate.

The body of the card reader included in the kit is made of matte white plastic.

On the front panel there is only the manufacturer's name.

The back side contains a sticker with information about the device.

It is worth noting that the card reader is quite large.

Both devices are made of high-quality materials, there are no complaints about assembly.

In progress

Bottom line

Hello everyone!
Today we will talk, although not about a Chinese product, but at the same time, a very interesting device.
This device is called Eye-Fi Pro X2 8 GB, and in simple terms, it is an 8 GB SD card with a built-in Wi-Fi module. I don’t know how it was possible to fit a wireless module into a card. Well, that is, microcircuits are certainly possible, but an antenna? In general, I never cease to be amazed at how much progress has come, as they say.

The parcel (from the USA) took about 40 days to reach me, which is probably not so bad, considering how our mail works.
The whole thing cost me (including all overheads, commissions, etc.) $100. And the seller's price was $79. It turns out that I spent about 20 bucks on the services of an intermediary, who is not usually mentioned on this site. It’s quite acceptable, since ordinary Russian stores, which have gone crazy, offered me to buy the same card at the price, attention: 7,000 rubles, which, as you understand, is at least 100% more expensive.

Package. This was my first package from the USA (all the other numerous ones are only from China).
I was quite surprised by the volume of the box. Well, you know, when you order an SD card, you expect to get something the size of a cigarette pack. But in fact, a big cardboard box arrived, here’s a photo:

Inside, in the parcel cardboard, the package itself with the card was heavily padded with some material, the closest analogue being polystyrene foam. When my wife opened it, she said: “Oh, corn sticks))),” and in fact, it felt, looked, and even smelled!!! similar to those same corn sticks.

To Amazon.com's credit, this packaging inspires respect. Being in the middle of the box, the card itself is unlikely to be damaged, no matter how you throw it. Because these very “sticks” really absorb perfectly. Damn, the Chinese will learn how to pack...

Now let's see what's inside. There was also a cardboard package with a card inside. The whole thing looks like this:

The card itself is nothing unusual, except for the color. To put it bluntly, its coloring is poisonous)))

What's included in the package?
The kit includes: instructions in English. language, as well as a proprietary card reader.
Well, and the card itself, of course. Instructions:

And this is what a branded card reader looks like:

What is this device for?

And this is what prompted me to order this device (SD card). I take a lot of pictures with my camera, and like all normal people, I am extremely annoyed by the constant search for a cable for the camera. And what’s more, the thought also occurred to me that the connector on the camera is the most ordinary one, and therefore it will spread/lose, just like all ordinary connectors. My camera costs 20,000 rubles.
For me personally, this is enough to think about how to reduce the risk of being left with a connector that is “buggy.”

But this wonderful card with a Wi-Fi module completely eliminates the problem of always having a cable at hand, and most importantly, constantly plugging this cable into your computer and camera.

Everything you shoot with your camera magically ends up on your computer wirelessly. You just need to install a special program on your computer called Eye-Fi Center.

This program comes initially on the card. That is, you don’t need to download/search for anything. The program has an English interface, but everything is quite simple, it won’t be difficult to understand.

Imagine, your device is lying on the table. You took it to capture, say, your child’s smile... And in a few seconds, your photos will be on your computer. You don’t need any cables, connect something somewhere, copy this or that! Everything happens automatically.

If you have a modern camera, perhaps it has an “Eye-Fi” item right in the menu, as it turned out to be for me. In this case, you can optionally turn off wireless data transmission, say, on the street, to save battery power.

If your camera does not natively support Eye-Fi cards, then there are still no problems! I specifically checked, for example, with the Samsung WB-5500, which does not claim support for Eye-Fi cards, everything works just fine.

Or you just came from a walk. Where they filmed a lot. And already on the way, within the Wi-Fi coverage area, your photos will begin to be transferred to your computer. You didn't forget to leave it on, did you?
And by the time you change into home clothes and sit down at your favorite laptop, all your photos will already be at your fingertips.

And don’t forget that the connector in an expensive camera does not suffer. No need to look for constantly disappearing cables... Simply beautiful.

Bottom line. If you take a lot of photographs, and often, this device is definitely for you! There’s nothing to even think about.

Well, if you shoot, God willing, once a week, then of course you can connect a regular USB cable and not bother yourself with cards that cost $100 for 8 GB!

I must say that some more functionality is announced, such as geotagging, uploading photos to an online service, but all this is of little interest to me personally, and I have not tested these options.

And so - in the kit we get a branded card reader and a card that, in general, will save you from wires forever.

]]> ]]> - a type of SD flash memory card with hardware elements supporting Wi-Fi technology built into the card.

Description

Eye-Fi cards are compatible with almost all cameras, 100% operable with any of the officially confirmed devices. Eye-Fi is identical in size to standard ]]> SD (SDHC)]]> maps Thus, it can be inserted into the standard memory card slot of your photo device without any difficulty, thereby expanding its capabilities. There is a possibility that the card will work through a suitable adapter and in a slot for cards of the ]]> format CF]]> . But it is worth taking into account the reverse probability: a reduction in the range of the Wi-Fi network created by the card, destruction and damage to files located on the card, and problems with full or partial formatting of the card’s contents.

A photo device compatible with an Eye-Fi card has the ability to copy captured photos and videos directly to a PC or to photo and video hosting (Flickr and ]]> other similar services]]>). You can manage the memory card using the web interface (from a browser) or specialized Eye-Fi Center software (supplied). To do this, you will need a PC running OS X or Windows and a shared Wi-Fi network. Unfortunately, the card functions strictly in predefined Wi-Fi networks.

Principle of operation

When you receive the card, you need to connect it to your PC via a USB adapter to update the firmware and install the Eye-Fi Center software (you will need the Internet). In Eye-Fi Center we launch a WI-FI router on the card.

Video and photo materials can be copied to both a PC and a mobile device (Android or iOS). Depending on where the files will be copied, the work scenario will vary. In both cases, the Internet is not required, since the Eye-Fi card itself creates a Wi-FI network through which it transmits content.

If you need the files on your smartphone or tablet, then install the necessary software for ]]> Android]]> or ]]> iOS]]> . We launch the application on the gadget, check that the router mode on the card is enabled, join the network created by the card - you’re done.

If you need the files on your PC, then in the program settings we set the Direct Mode, which is responsible for transferring files without the Internet. We launch the application on the PC, check that the router mode on the card is running, join the network created by the card - you’re done.

For both scenarios, it is possible to use external Wi-Fi networks for data transfer. In the card settings using Eye-Fi Center, you can specify up to 30 predefined networks.

Types of cards.

Literally 2-3 years ago Eye-Fi released at least 5 types of cards; today only 3 types are relevant (I note that 1 type is no longer available on the company’s website):

Connect;
Mobile;

The main differences are as follows:

Volume. The "Connect" type card is available only in a 4GB version, and the "Mobile" type is available in 8GB. "Pro" can be purchased in both 8 and 16GB models;
Transmission formats. Only "Pro" type cards can transfer photo materials in *.raw format;
Geotagging. Only "Pro" cards have the ability to record geotags;
Downloading via authorized hotspots(Wi-Fi access points in public places). Only "Pro" type cards have the ability to upload photos and videos via ]]> network of authorized hotspots]]> (McDonald's, Starbucks, airports, hotels, etc.).

Specifications

Card capacity: 4, 8 or 16GB;
Wi-Fi standard: 802.11b, 802.11g and 802.11n;
Encryption standard: WEP 64/128, WPA-PSK, WPA2-PSK;
Dimensions: 32x24x2.1 mm;
Wireless network coverage radius indoors: 20 m;
Outdoor wireless network coverage radius: 40 m.

Competitors

The main competitors are:

]]> Transcend]]> ;
]]> Toshiba]]> ;
]]> Ez Share]]> .

All of them are distinguished by more meager capabilities and a relatively low price.

Minuses

If you do not take into account “taste”, then there are three main disadvantages:

Price;
Operates on camera battery (discharges faster);
Low transfer speed.

Saving

In the USA, the older model with a capacity of 16GB can be purchased for ]]> $80 ]]> , in Russia it will cost you ]]> 6,000 rubles]]> .

Conclusion

Undoubtedly, Eye-Fi is a rather highly specialized gadget, but it solves the assigned tasks 100%. If you take photos frequently, you need to seriously consider purchasing one.

Worries and counting frames on camera film are a thing of the past - modern technologies allow you to always have a storage of several thousand images at hand. The market offers a large number of similar “helpers”; all that remains is to choose the right memory card for the camera. It would seem that this is an easy task, but this is only at first glance. If chosen incorrectly, such a part may simply not fit your equipment.

The easiest way is to follow the instructions, which indicate the type of card that is suitable specifically for your device. General information about the types of such accessories will not be superfluous.

SD cards

Sequre Digital (SD card for short) is the most popular format, produced for almost 20 years. Today these cards are presented in different modifications.

One type of SD card is the Eye-Fi device type. Eye-fi is a type of flash card that has a hardware element inside to support Wi-Fi. It’s interesting that the cards can be used in any Wi-Fi camera: just insert the card into the appropriate slot, and you will be able to transfer captured photos and videos to the Internet. This is very convenient for journalists and photojournalists working on the road.

Along with the already familiar SD card, there may also be a microversion of it - It has found application in tablets, smartphones, small cameras and action cameras. Despite their small size, these memory cards are fully functional. So if the camera has a memory slot for SD, it is quite possible to insert a micro version through the adapter.

In microSD the capacity can reach up to 200 GB. For example, in models from the manufacturer SanDisk in the Ultra microSDHC category.

Compact Flash

This type has gained popularity among owners of professional cameras, but such a drive is also used in some outdated cameras. Compact Flash still holds the “first place” in terms of recording speed and volume. Some CFast version 2.0 have unsurpassed characteristics:

Reading speed can reach 515 MB/s;
recording rates reach 440 MB/s.

As for the volume, the minimum is 64 GB, and the maximum is 128 GB. This already resembles professional indicators.

You should make sure that the equipment itself can support this data transfer rate. For example, in this case the camera must support UDMA (direct memory access).

Own types of flash drives

Attempts to organize the production of such accessories are encountered, one way or another, by each of the manufacturers. Most often, the vehicle itself will have a separate slot for this purpose.

For example, Previously, they were the prerogative of only Sony digital cameras (that’s why they got the abbreviation sms). However, the drives have been upgraded since their release - this has affected the incompatibility. The problem was solved by the appearance of special adapters.

xD-Picture Only used for Olympus and Fuji. However, now the format has been replaced by the most affordable SD options. But Nikon, on the contrary, is betting on the release of new cards - XQD line intended only for professional equipment. Not least thanks to the large capacitance potential and high speeds.

However, even within the same format it is very difficult to know what to choose. The issue is resolved by placing emphasis on the main characteristics.

What to look for when choosing a flash drive

Among all the significant criteria, the following are of interest:

Memory;
write and read speed class;
protection capabilities;
manufacturer.

Determining the amount of memory

This indicator will show the number of pictures that fit on the card. Every year these indicators become more and more “in demand”: the quality of photo and video materials and, accordingly, the space they occupy are increasing. The amount of detail retained in a photo will determine its volume. This is where the format comes into play: when combination of RAW and JPEG just one photo can already take up 100 MB. For example, a forty-second clip of a Canon EOS-1D X Mark II can take up as much as 5 GB. And in 4K, one minute can take up hundreds of times more space. Therefore, today there is no point in purchasing flash drives with a capacity of less than 16 GB, especially if you plan to actively shoot photos and videos.

Let's give some good advice: when going to a photo shoot, it makes sense to take several memory cards with you. This will allow you to save all important moments.

Optimal speed for writing and reading

This parameter is relevant if only because it determines the area in which the memory card will be used. For example, there is no point in trying to record sports footage or Full HD video on a slow card - it will simply freeze. Previously there was a simple gradation: classes 2,4,6,10. In fact, this was the designation of the write speed in megabytes per second. Fast flash drives had additional marking U1 or U3– 10 Mb/s and 30 Mb/s, respectively. If we talk about formats, the U1 supports Full HD video recording, and to shoot in 4K format you will have to purchase a card labeled U3. But Sandisk has slightly different information:

Ultra II recording speed starts from 9 MB/sec;
Extreme III starts at 20 Mb/s;
Extreme IV indicators were 45 Mb/sec.

New standards have recently emerged UHS-I and UHS-II recording speeds. The first type supports speeds up to 104 Mb/s, and the second – up to 312 Mb/s. Such technical characteristics will allow you to realize all the talents inherent in modern technology. The most interesting, of course, is the second version. It differs in that the contacts in it are located in two rows.

In general, the manufacturer must indicate the following parameters: on the left is the speed at which reading or writing is performed, and on the right is the class through which the card passes.

Here are some tips for choosing a recording speed class.

For Full HD shooting We advise you to choose a memory card with a write speed of at least class 6 (ten would be ideal).
If it is expected continuous shooting, then it’s better to take care of even faster options, for example U1 or U. It’s better not to save: a slow flash drive will miss a very interesting frame, wasting time transferring to the camera pictures taken a little earlier.
If the plans include shoot moving objects, then the speed requirements increase, because there are already several series. Therefore, the speed itself must be at least 80 Mb/s.
Cards from 90 Mb/s are better to choose for professional level camera.

But the read speed is not so relevant - most often it will be equal to or exceed the write speed.

The importance of protection

Naturally, when the memory card is inside the camera, it is more protected than when it is removed. However, the manufacturers took care of these points as well. Usually indicated on the packaging degree of protection from negative influences, ranging from frost and sun to x-ray radiation, which is most likely during security screening at the airport. It is better to buy a product with the maximum degree of protection for yourself.

There are also additional precautions which will allow you to work much longer. The following must not be allowed:

exposure to strong magnetic fields;
flash drives falling, especially into water;
exposure to excessively high or low temperatures.

Advice! Do not insert or remove a flash card while the camera is turned on.

Accessory manufacturer

According to professional photographers, SanDisk has the highest level of reliability. However, even in this case, when choosing a memory card for a camera, you should focus specifically on the class of devices. For example, for a DSLR camera, choose SanDisk Extreme PRO microSDXC UHS-II, for amateur photography, choose UHS-I, and for professional work, even choose PRO CFast2.0. For action cameras Microformats SDXC version UHS-II are suitable. There are other well-established manufacturers - Transcend, Kingston and Samsung. But you shouldn’t trust an inexpensive price from an unknown brand.

Eye-fi - card with endless memory. Changing a regular SD card to an Eye-Fi memory card Eye cards

Specifications

Packaging and equipment

Externally

In progress

Bottom line

Specifications

Packaging and equipment

Externally

In progress

Bottom line

Description

Principle of operation

Types of cards.

Specifications

Competitors

Minuses

Saving

Conclusion

SD cards

Compact Flash

Own types of flash drives

What to look for when choosing a flash drive

Determining the amount of memory

Optimal speed for writing and reading

The importance of protection

Accessory manufacturer

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