Sony flash memory card - 2 GB - MS PRO ( MSX2GS )

 Sony Memory Stick PRO - 2 GB

I originally purchased this media for a Sony Cyber-shot camera. With the two gigabytes of memory, I can take 1012 pictures at 4MP (JPEG fine, 2304x1728). A four mega pixel image generally provides enough detail to make sharp photo-quality 8x10 inch prints - very close if not equivalent to those taken with 35mm film. Of course this depends, to some extent, on the characteristics of the individual camera and the skill of the photographer. The 2GB memory stick could also provide enough storage for a smooth twenty five minute high-resolution video (MPEG Fine, 640x480, 30 fps).

Let's do the math... good quality 24 exposure 35mm film sells for about three dollars a roll. That's about $130 just for the film excluding the cost of development. And, this is a reoccurring event - with a memory stick it's a one time investment that can be reused again and again. Not only with cameras, but also with other handhelds - such as a PDA device. Or, it could be used as a secondary hard drive through a USB/PCMCIA reader/adapter. Printing 1012 4x6 photos on good photo-quality archive paper will run about twenty cents a copy and cost around $200. I don't have the need or even want to print every photo. So this cost is also cut down drastically.

Bottom line... A very good investment and excellent quality.