Data Backup Digest

Although SD memory cards are typically considered amongst the most reliable and secure forms of digital storage in the 21st century, they aren't perfect. SD memory cards are still susceptible to data loss and corruption, and the only foolproof way to preserve your data is to perform regular backups of any important files you may have. In an attempt to make this easier for the average consumer, Sony has introduced automated and real-time backup functionality within their newest line of SD memory cards; which hit the store shelves under the pseudonym of the Sony Backup SD Card in December 2013.

How It Works

While the implementation of real-time and automatic backup protocols within SD memory cards is a novel idea, the newly added functionality does require the use of specialized software. Developed by Sony, the Real-Time Backup Utility comes pre-loaded on all of Sony's SD memory cards that support the technology.

All consumers have to do is insert the Sony Backup SD Card into their computer's drive, install the included backup software, and select which folders and files they want to backup. By leaving the card inserted into your computer's SD drive, all files created or modified within the selected folder will automatically be synced with the data on the Sony Backup SD Card. Moreover, apart from the real-time backup functionality, users are able to schedule their own timeframes for imitating complete and automatic backups. For an extra level of security, users can even opt to have their data protected by AES 256 encryption.

Viviano Cantu, Sony Electronic's director of consumer media marketing, spoke briefly on the subject. “Everyone wants their personal content and memories safely preserved and archived, but people usually put off data back-up because it involves extra steps like plugging in other devices and organizing the files into different folders,” she said. “Those extra steps are gone. As soon as you put the card into your PC to view your files, the backup process begins and it’s done so you don’t have to worry about it.”

Inefficiencies

The major drawback of the Sony Backup SD Card has to do with the size of the files it is processing. Files that are several gigabytes or larger in size, such as combined email files generated from certain email software, may greatly reduce the efficiency of the backup process. In this case, such files and folders should be excluded from the backup process.

Another drawback is the limited capacity of the SD cards themselves. With a maximum storage capacity of 64 GB, some users will have no choice but to retain their current data backup protocol.

Consumer Availability

Sony's new line of SD memory cards, complete with automated backup capabilities, is available now. Available in capacities of 16, 32 or 64 GB, the cards retail for $27.99, $52.99 and $99.99, respectively. The included software, known as the Real-Time Backup Utility supports numerous operating systems, including Windows XP (SP3 or later), Windows Vista (SP2 or later), Windows 7 (SP1 or later) and Windows 8, so consumers who want to take advantage of Sony's automatic SD backup utility will need to make sure their OS is up-to-date.