SanDisk Introduces Next Generation ImageMate for Secure Digital Memory Cards and MultiMediaCards

HANNOVER, Germany--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 22, 2001-- SanDisk Corporation announced today the launch of the SanDisk SecureMate USB card reader. Designed for use with both Secure Digital (SD) cards and MultiMediaCards, the new reader quickly and easily transfers images, audio, video and data between storage cards and computers via the USB port for plug-and-play convenience. The announcement was made at the annual CeBIT Trade Show and Exhibition, where SanDisk is demonstrating products (Hall 13, Stand D-84.)

SanDisk is one of the largest suppliers of SD and MultiMediaCards, which are rapidly becoming the standard removable storage medium for hand held computers, digital video cameras, MP3 players, cell phones and other consumer devices. Many consumers prefer to use a card reader to transfer data directly from their card rather than their camera or music player. The USB port transfers data faster than a serial port connection and offers the plug-and-play capabilities of USB. Additionally, using a card reader does not tie up their device for long periods of time which can drain batteries.

Nelson Chan, senior vice president of worldwide marketing and sales at SanDisk, said, "As the demand for SD and MMC cards increases, so does the demand for devices that make them easier to use. Adding the SecureMate reader gives us a complete product line that complements our existing products and accessories for CompactFlash and SmartMedia."

The SanDisk SecureMate reader will be available in July at most of the 20,000 retail outlets in North America, Europe, Canada, South America, Japan and Asia. The suggested retail price is US.95. International pricing varies by country.

Minimum system requirements for the SecureMate for Windows computers include a Pentium II - 233MHz compatible or higher processor; or a K6-2 processor with Windows 95, 98, 2000 and Millennium Edition with USB support. Macintosh computers: iMac or Power Mac with G3 processor or higher, with Mac OS 8.6 or 9 with USB support.