Read-only SD card adaptor

Computer/Embedded Technology

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25 September 2019 Computer/Embedded Technology

ATEK Access Technologies launched its new Datakey read-only DFX PC adaptor, the latest addition to the DFX RUGGEDrive Series of Secure Digital (SD) memory devices.

It works to prevent accidental deletion or modification of recorded data without the need for a read/write switch.

The adaptor functions much like an SD card reader, except that it works with Datakey DFX RUGGEDrive memory tokens, which are SD cards moulded into Datakey’s proprietary RUGGEDrive token form factor. When plugged into a computer’s USB port, the adaptor prevents modifications or deletions to the data stored on the inserted memory token. The combination of the memory token and read-only adaptor gives embedded designers a removable memory solution that safeguards logged data once the token has been removed from the embedded host.

“In some markets, like defence, there are negative impressions of USB Flash drives and SD cards due to security and durability concerns,” said Paul Plitzuweit, senior product manager for the Datakey product line. “However, a removable memory device is often an ideal solution for many applications. The RUGGEDrive line addresses this challenge by providing removable memory devices with USB Flash drive or SD card functionality that are solid over-moulded into tamper-evident, non-standard form factors.”

The non-standard form factor of the RUGGEDrive memory tokens limits the opportunities for the memory devices to be used in inappropriate ways. If a memory device doesn’t plug in directly into a computer, tablet, smartphone or camera, it is much less likely that the data on that device will be accidentally deleted or modified.

Of course, sometimes it is necessary to transfer data from the proprietary memory device to a computer. For these occasions, Datakey offers adaptors that plug in to a USB port. The standard adaptors allow read/write access, whereas the new adaptor only allows read access.

The protection afforded by the proprietary form factor of these devices is only effective if access to the adaptors is limited, so ATEK controls the availability of its Datakey products by only selling direct to qualified OEM customers domestically and through special authorised distributors internationally. This allows OEMs to control which memory tokens and adaptors their end-users have access to.

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Read-only SD card adaptor

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