Memory
A camera's memory determines the number of pictures you store before having to download them to a computer to make room for more. Larger camera memories can also store more "high-resolution" pictures. Memory power can range from two megabytes (MB) to four times that. And some allow upgrades to as much as 64MB. The more memory the better.

Memory Type
The type of memory used can be almost as important as memory capacity. Some cameras store photos on "removable memory," disks that plug into the computer for downloading.   Other cameras store images internally and use a cord hook-up for computer downloads. Removable memory is more flexible, easier to use, and can save battery power.

Internal Memory
The place inside an electronic device where digital information is stored for later retrieval and use. Removable Memory A type of digital data storage used in digital cameras. Photo  images are saved to a removable memory chip that can be removed from the camera for easy downloading to a computer. There are a variety of removable memory formats available, the most common being 3.5-inch floppy disks and "Flash Cards."

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To transfer the image from the camera's memory card to your computer, the camera is normally connected to the computer via either the serial port or the USB port. The only exception to this is if the camera uses a 3.5 inch floppy disk to store the images, in which case you can just put the disk into your floppy drive and transfer the image just like any other file. Only modern computers have the USB port which is much faster than the serial port. (Note that Windows NT4 does not support the USB port.)

Many digital cameras today still use the serial port, however USB card readers are available that plug into your computers USB port. The card reader is then used to read the card rather than the camera. Some digital cameras also have a special output which allows you to view your images on a TV screen.