ActionTec Debuts 3-In-One PC Card; Reader/Writer For Digital Photos

Electronic News, Sept 28, 1998

The three-in-one CameraConnect Pro card reader is compatible with the three leading flash memory card formats: ATA Flash PC Cards, CompactFlash Cards and SmartMedia cards.

With the newly-added ability to read and write 16-megabyte SmartMedia Cards, the CameraConnect Pro builds on the platform established by ActionTec's CameraConnect PC Card/CompactFlash Card reader. By reading and writing the storage cards used by PDA (personal digital assistant) systems, applications for the reader/writer now extend through digital photography.

"CameraConnect Pro can easily become the digital photographer's and mobile professional's most useful tool for accessing and manipulating stored digital images," commented Elliot Hadaegh, VP of Sales and Marketing for ActionTec. "Eliminating the need to wait for a serial connection download, the CameraConnect Pro lets professionals share the storage medium of their PDA or digital camera with their desktop system at maximum speed."

The camera system connects to the parallel port of any desktop computer and does not require an external power supply. Cards can be "hot swapped" and inserted and removed without shutting down the system. By permitting both reading and writing of files, it can also streamline PDA and notebook computer data transfer and backup.

Commenting on what the primary applications for the reader/writer will likely be, Mr. Hadaegh said, "The CameraConnect Pro will be exceptionally popular with graphic designers, web page developers, real estate agents, contractors and other professionals who need instant photography or need to transmit photographs electronically."

Indicator LEDs show operational status, power, and data transfer mode. In addition, the product is compatible with Microsoft Windows 95, Windows 98 and Windows NT, and will operate with an IBM 486-compatible or later PC with 16 megabytes of RAM. User upgradeable software drivers provide compatibility with future advancements in high capacity SmartMedia, the company said. Contact ActionTec for pricing information on the product. u