It is tempting to drag and drop files from memory card readers. Be aware though that the folder structure used by digital cameras is quite complicated and it is easy to select the wrong files or create errors in the structure. Also, when you delete files using some operating systems the files are not deleted, but instead placed in a special 'trash' folder. Since they are still on the card (in the trash) the space is not freed-up.

This situation is very hard to rectify later when the card is back in the camera because most cameras do not understand the trash folder; generally the only option is to clear the card entirely. Use the Digital Camera Wizard in Ulead Photo Explorer 7.0 Pro to avoid problems.

It is not advisable to format digital camera flash memory cards on your computer. Some cameras have trouble reading cards formatted in this way. All cameras have functions that will format and clear the cards and it is best to use them when you buy a new memory card. The problems arise because the computer selects different default sizes for disc blocks and directory sizes to the camera. Computers are much more flexible in the layouts that they can read than cameras. If you have done this, put the card into the camera and reformat it. Some cameras call this function 'Clear All Images'.

Many cameras offer TWAIN download from digital cameras, and it can be convenient to use. However in most cases the JPG images from the camera will be decompressed and resaved with some loss of image quality. Also Exif camera information embedded in the camera file will be lost. Try to use direct copying of images from the camera or memory card to your PC, or use special transfer software that came with your camera. The Ulead Photo Explorer Digital Camera Wizard can be used with many cameras to avoid the problems associated with TWAIN transfers.

There are many advantages to using a memory card reader when downloading images from your camera. It is generally much faster than serial connections and some models are faster than USB connections. Memory card readers come in two forms - either an adaptor for PCMCIA cards used on notebook computers or as stand alone units for Compact Flash or SmartMedia (sometimes both) types of cards. All use power from your computer so they will save the camera batteries. Also, since files are copied directly from the camera to the computer's discs there are none of the loss of quality issues that are often associated with using a TWAIN driver.

Many notebooks have PCMCIA card slots, they are usually in the side of the computer and are often used for modem and network cards. You can buy an inexpensive adaptor that will accept your digital camera's memory card and plug into the PCMCIA slot. It is a really easy and very fast way to transfer your images to the computer. The Ulead Photo Explorer's Digital Camera Wizard is ideal for performing the transfers.

Some older models of computer and earlier operating systems have trouble reading flash memory cards from digital cameras. It sometimes looks as if there are no images on the card. It is hard to give a general solution to these problems, but possible solutions include:

• Using memory cards from different manufacturers
• Upgrading the PCMCIA card drivers
• Upgrading the computer's operating system
• Using a USB based card reader