Dictionary of Computer and Internet Terms: CompactFlash
CompactFlash
a type of flash-memory non-volatile storage device commonly used in palmtop computers, Nikon digital cameras, and other portable devices. CompactFlash cards are rectangular, about 40 mm (1.6 inches) wide, and either 3.3 mm (0.13 inch) thick (Type I) or 5 mm (0.2 inch) thick (Type II) (see Figure 64).
Flash-memory CompactFlash cards interact with the computer like ATA hard disks. There are also CompactFlashType II cards that contain an actual magnetic disk (the IBM Microdrive). Compare flash memory card (flash card); MemoryStick; MultiMediaCard; Secure Digital Card (SD card); SmartMedia.
