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USB-C-CARD-READER

Olimex LTD
Micro SD Reader
Active

Overview

The Olimex USB-C-CARD-READER is a compact, open-source hardware adapter designed to interface Micro SD flash memory with modern USB-C host devices. It provides a simple, direct connection for data transfer between mobile devices, laptops, and SBCs without the need for additional cables. Its minimalist PCB design makes it an ideal tool for developers needing to flash OS images or access log files via a Type-C port.

Why Choose This Part

The primary advantage is its native USB-C connector, which eliminates the need for USB-A to USB-C dongles when working with modern hardware. Its ultra-compact form factor and exposed PCB design make it rugged for field use and easy to carry in a developer toolkit.

Applications

SBC OS Provisioning
Flashing Linux distributions or firmware images onto Micro SD cards for Raspberry Pi or similar single-board computers.
Embedded Logging Retrieval
Extracting sensor data logs from Micro SD cards used in remote industrial or environmental monitoring systems.
Mobile Device Storage Expansion
Providing immediate external storage access for USB-C equipped smartphones and tablets for media backup.

Key Specifications

Card Type Micro SD
Interface USB

Getting Started

To use the reader, insert a Micro SD card into the slot and plug the device into a USB-C port; it will be recognized as a standard Mass Storage Class (MSC) device by most operating systems. No specific drivers are required for Windows, macOS, or Linux environments. For developers, it can be used with tools like BalenaEtcher or Raspberry Pi Imager for card provisioning.

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