XQD format to take over from CompactFlash in fast cameras
updated 05:25 pm EST, Wed December 7, 2011
CompactFlash group unveils XQD for cards
The CompactFlash Association on Wednesday brought out a true successor to its namesake card format. XQD sits between CF and SD cards in size but switches to the much more modern PCI Express interface to read data. Its switch should see real-world write speeds hit 125MB per second or higher, or enough to easily handle greater than HD video and burst shooting at very high still resolutions.
The underlying structure would have headroom for 2.5 gigabits per second (312.5GB) and would eventually ramp up to five gigabits (625GB). Cards would be designed for tougher shooting conditions.
Some of the first prototypes of XQD cards will be shown at the CP+ camera expo in Yokohama on February 9, with licensing going out to members in a similar timeframe. Shipping cameras weren't given a release window, although companies will need time to design and produce cameras that can take advantage of the higher speeds.
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GB vs MB
The part "The underlying structure would have headroom for 2.5 gigabits per second (312.5GB) and would eventually ramp up to five gigabits (625GB). " should correctly read 312.5MB and 625MB respectively.