Delkin Blog

In applications using an SD interface, it is important for the interface and connectors to deliver the right level of ruggedness and reliability for the way the host device will be used. Many SD-compatible flash interfaces are designed to be used in consumer products, and although these are well suited to those kinds of devices, they are generally not reliable enough for industrial applications. Instead, industrial applications that use the SD interface must be designed with industrial-grade card connectors. For industrial microSD card connectors, this means choosing SLC flash memory technology.

microSD Card Connectors and SD Interface Design

SD interfaces are popular for embedded designs, because they are so easy to implement. For industrial microSD card connectors in devices that have limited space, microSD cards use eight pins for connection with the host system. This allows for easily adaptable performance, depending on the needs of the device, including everything from one bit SPI to four bit SD serial implementations. For industrial-grade microSD cards, capacities of up to 16GB are available.

Industrial microSD Cards

For industrial applications with microSD card connectors, look for SLC flash memory storage options. MLC—or multi-level cell—flash that is used in consumer products is designed for non-industrial use, so it doesn’t have the speed, lifespan, or reliability that industrial applications need. With SLC—single level cell—memory, each cell in the flash device can only store one bit of data. This allows for faster programming and reading, and it reduces the risk of lost data. Industrial-grade microSD cards also have long lifespans and controlled BOMs. This means there is no risk that the components will be changed without advanced notice, so developers can prevent any compatibility complications.

Industrial microSD cards are also reliable in extreme operating conditions. They can tolerate temperatures as low as -40 degrees C and as high as 85 degrees C. Additionally, shock and vibration will not disrupt the functioning of the flash memory device.

Delkin offers multiple microSD card designs along with full customization options. Talk to one of our product specialists today to learn more about industrial microSD cards or to order an engineering sample.