Best Nikon D100 CompactFlash Memory Cards

The Nikon D100 uses Compact Flash memory cards. 2GB is the largest card memory size that is compatible with the camera.

A CF card over 2GB will either not be recognized or the D100 will display an error. Additionally, a Compact Flash memory card will need to be formatted by the camera or using the FAT16 file system.

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Recommended CF Cards

Verbatim 2GB CompactFlash Card

• Excellent value.
• Limited Lifetime Warranty.
• High Performance Controller for demanding applications.
• Low Power Consumption.

Transcent 2GB CompactFlash Card

• 133X Speed.
• Data Transfer Rate Up to 12MB/sec.
• Built In Dynamic Defect Management and Error Correction Technology.

SanDisk 2GB CompactFlash Card

• Fully compatible with an interchangeable in all CompactFlash digital cameras.
• Operating shock rating of 2,000 Gs, equivalent to a 10-foot drop to the floor.
• Limited lifetime warranty.

Compact Flash Card Types

CF Memory cards come in two different sizes. The cards are known as Type I or Type II.

The difference between the types of cards is the thickness. The length and width of the cards are identical.

• Type I - 3.3mm thick
• Type II - 5mm thick

The Type II spec were thicker so Microdrives could be used in the Nikon D100. A Microdrive was a small mechanical harddrive, the size of a compact flash card.

When Compact Flash memory cards were initially released they had high prices and small capacities. Microdrives were the only option to get large storage sizes.

Microdrives are no longer produced. Because they were mechanical, failure came from prolonged use or age. So you can’t find them used.

Another usage of the Type II sized slot is for Compact Flash adapters. There are adapters that will allow you to use Micro SD or SD cards in a CF slot.

Card Reader

The UGREEN 4-in-1 card reader is what I use with my CF cards.

The UGREEN card reader has USB 3.0. Using the card reader will allow transfer speeds that are faster than what the Nikon D100 can achieve.

The reader supports these card types:

• CompactFlash Cards
• SD, SDHC, & SDXC Cards
• Memory Stick (MS), MS Pro, MS PRO-HG, & MS XC DUO
• MicroSD, Micro SDHC, & Micro SDXC Cards

Avoiding Card Read Errors

A common problems with cameras that use Compact Flash memory cards are damaged card slot pins. When a pin is bent, you might see a ‘unable to use card’ error.

To avoid bent pins, do not force a Compact Flash card into the Nikon D100. The extra space for a Type II card allows a Compact Flash memory card to be out of alignment.

If the compact flash card will not effortlessly slide into the slot, remove it and check the positioning of the memory card. Also, check to see if the card is damaged.

If it looks good, carefully align the compact flash card and try inserting it again.