Using the compactflash for memory

[sburgott]

I have an IPAQ with the sleeve for a compact flash. I have downloaded books from the internet with appropriate software- but the data does not go to the compact flash card. How can I designate where a program deposits data? everything seems so automated, I am never asked where to put things. I was hoping to be able to take e-books and picture files on compact flash cards- but it won't work if I cann't get the data there ;)
Little help, please. What am I missing?
Sue

[Jason Dunn]

When the software installer prompts you to "Install to Default Location?" say "No" - then you'll have the option to install to memory card, etc.

If you're talking about data (eBooks, etc.) you'll want to open ActiveSync while your device is connected and click EXPLORE - then browse to the memory card, drag and drop....and you're done! :D

[Ekkie Tepsupornchai]

Just a note that the ActiveSync Explore option defaults you to the "My Documents" directory, but if you click on the 1st icon displayed (something like "My PocketPC"), then that will take you back to the root allowing you access to your storage card.

[sburgott]

Thanks. Pretty slick.
Will I be able to remove this flashcard and insert another for new files Then go back to the first? How will my ppc keep track, since there doesn't seem to be a name for the particular card?
Sue

[Ekkie Tepsupornchai]

Thanks. Pretty slick.
Will I be able to remove this flashcard and insert another for new files Then go back to the first? How will my ppc keep track, since there doesn't seem to be a name for the particular card?
Sue
Yeah, you can switch between as many flashcards as you like. Your PPC does nothing special to keep track of which card is inserted, it really only knows if a card is there or not (think of it the same way as a floppy or a CD in you PC).

Now most people do prefer keeping one large flashcard as opposed to multiple small cards to avoid from constant switching. If you ask your PPC to run a program that was installed in a card that is not inserted, then it will fail to find the program and display an error message. Inserting the correct card and re-running should solve the problem, but overall, it's up to YOU to keep track of those cards.

[Oregon Trail]

I have two compact flash cards and you are right, it is a hassle to remember which file is on which card. I am considering dumping the 48MB card contents onto the 128MB card, but figure that is almost as much of a problem as just having two cards. :)

[Ekkie Tepsupornchai]

If you're really tight on money and can't afford a larger CF, then what I would do is identify the most important of your apps that you installed onto the cards and then make sure the program folder is copied onto all other cards. So for example, if you were to install "ListPro" onto your CF card, then the installer will create a folder called "ListPro" containing all the relevant "ListPro" program files. What you do is COPY (not move) that folder (and contents) to all of your other CF cards as well. This way, no matter which card you have inserted, you should have no problem running "ListPro". If you have the money to spare though, do yourself a favor and get a larger card. 256MB CF cards can be had for less than $100 and 512MB CF cards can be had for less than $200.