Panasonic's new SDHC capacities

John Chan | Jul 24, 2008

HONG KONG--We are all used to SDHC media over 4GB having capacities in multiples of four, such as 8GB, 16GB and 32GB cards. Today, Panasonic bucked that trend by announcing 6GB (RP-SDM06G) and 12GB (RP-SDM12G) SDHC cards.

Differing in color from its regular yellow SDHC cards for still photography, these two have been designed with the HD camcorder user in mind. In full-HD mode, the 6GB card can capture 90 minutes of footage, while the 12GB version can store up to 180 minutes. This follows the conventions that we have been used to in DV tapes, which makes it a logical transition for those switching over from their older videocams.

Aside from the odd capacities, these cards are still pretty much similar to other Panasonic Class 4 SDHC media, so you can still pop them into your digital camera and use as normal should the need arise.

The 6GB card will go for approximately US$45, with the 8GB at US$89. According to a Panasonic spokesperson, for a more accurate representation of how much the 6GB version will cost in your country, just add 50 percent to the existing price of the 4GB Class 4 SDHC--this will account for price differences in each area. The RP-SDM06G will go on sale in Asia Pacific soon at end August, while the 12GB SDM12G will arrive later in the year. And in case you're wondering, no, you can't buy that oversized version held by the model in the photo. Click for larger images of the two cards.

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