The play station portable gaming system console from Sony requires a memory card to save game information. The system uses a proprietary card called the Memory stick pro duo which is a removable flash memory card format. This brand name is used to describe the whole line of memory sticks designed and manufactured by Sony however there are differences between different models as well as differing prices.
There are other companies that manufacture psp memory cards for use in Sony products. Lexar is a popular brand that makes a compatible memory card. Both Sony and Lexar make models starting at 2GB all the way up to 32GB of storage. These are ratings for how much information the cards can store on them. While the terminology can often be confusing an easy example is that 4GB can hold about 1,000 music songs or 25,000 pictures of a particular resolution.
Memory sticks are necessary to save game information on the PSP during game play. Without the card the system cannot save progress that a player has earned within a game. The system may not function at all in regards to game play without the card. Sony game systems usually come with a memory stick right out of the box in either a 1 or 2 GB capacity. Memory sticks retail for significantly cheaper online than in brick and mortar locations. A 32GB Lexar Memory stick retails online for about 80 bucks in contrast to over 100 in stores. A 2GB model from Sony can go for as little as 8 dollars online as opposed to 20 dollars in stores.
The 1 or 2GB model that comes with the system is usually sufficient for most users. Dozens of saved games can be racked up on the card for multiple gamers without filling it up. Cards with extra space are readily available online and in electronics or gaming stores. The memory stick can be switched out of the device to access different saved information on different cards. Photos, video and other information can also be saved to the card.
Tags: Games, memory sticks, psp memory cards, sony products