Martin McCormick wrote:
>         This is almost not [O.T.] because this could be a fabulous way for
> PIC's to use large amounts of memory for data logging and huge buffers.  A
> couple of things need to happen for the fun to start.  We need a fixture
> that can hold a memory stick and bring out the connections to a set of
> pins that we could either mount on a circuit board or wire wrap to.

Absolutely, I aggree with the possibilities for PIC use, but my vote
would be for the SmartMedia(TM) card format instead. Take a look
at the Toshiba web site at some of their devices.

In my opinion, these things are used by more digital camera
manufacturers and are therefore more available, and should be a
strong contender for long survival in the market amongst other
contenders. 32MByte cards you can buy now at retail stores,
128Mbyte shouldn't be too far away, the connectors too I think are
not too hard to get hold of. The electrical specs you can pick up
from a Toshiba data sheet. Looks pretty easy.

The only thing difficult might be making it data format compatible
with other SmartMedia(TM) systems as this is covered by a
SSFDC forum specification which I think requires money to join.
The advantage then would be you could take the card out of your
PIC based datalogger, voice recorder, or whatever, and slip it into a
3.5" floppy adaptor and read it on your PC.

Anyone used these cards on a PIC or other micro project yet? I
would be surprised if no one has. Please send your comments to
the list if you know more than what I've said so far! (Could start a
new thread [OT] SmartMedia cards?). Brent.

Brent Brown
Electronic Design Solutions
16 English Street
Hamilton, New Zealand
Ph/fax: +64 7 849 0069
Mobile: 025 334 069
eMail:  brent.brown@clear.net.nz