MultiMediaCard facts for kids
A 32 MB MultiMediaCard
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| Media type | Memory card |
|---|---|
| Capacity | Up to 128GB (Highest currently sold) |
| Developed by | JEDEC |
| Dimensions | Standard: 32 × 24 × 1.4 mm |
| Weight | Standard: ~2.0 g |
| Usage | Portable devices |
| Extended to | Secure Digital (SD) |
The MultiMediaCard (MMC) is a type of flash memory card. It was created by two companies, SanDisk and Siemens AG, for people to use in everyday electronics. This small card is about the size of a postage stamp. It measures 24 millimeters by 32 millimeters and is only 1.4 millimeters thick.
Contents
What is a MultiMediaCard?
A MultiMediaCard, or MMC, is a tiny electronic device that stores digital information. Think of it like a small, reusable notebook for your digital files. It uses a special kind of memory called "flash memory." This means it can keep your data safe even when the power is turned off.
How MMCs Store Data
Flash memory works by storing data in tiny electronic cells. These cells can hold a charge, which represents a "1" or "0" in computer language. When you save a photo or a song, the MMC writes this information into these cells. When you want to see your photo again, the device reads the charges from the cells.
This type of memory is very useful because it has no moving parts. This makes MMCs very durable and less likely to break. They can also read and write data very quickly.
Where Were MMCs Used?
MultiMediaCards were popular in many portable electronic devices. They were often found in early digital cameras. People used them to save their pictures.
They also appeared in mobile phones. MMCs helped phones store contacts, messages, and small games. Some MP3 players also used MMCs to hold music files. Even some PDAs (early handheld computers) used them.
The Evolution of Memory Cards
The MultiMediaCard was one of the first widely used memory card standards. It helped pave the way for many other types of memory cards. Its small size and ability to store data without power made it a big step forward.
MMC vs. SD Cards
The MultiMediaCard led to the development of the Secure Digital (SD) card. SD cards look very similar to MMCs. However, SD cards have a few more electrical connections. This allows them to transfer data faster and offer more features.
Over time, SD cards became more popular than MMCs. Today, you will mostly find SD cards and their smaller versions, like microSD cards, in new devices. Still, the MMC was an important part of memory card history.
Images for kids
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Undersides of an MMC (left) and SD card (right) showing the differences between the two formats.
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MMCmicro
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eMMC KLMAG2GE4A-A002 inside the Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 10.1.
See also
- In Spanish: MultiMediaCard para niños
