RTS5261
Professional USB 3.0 card reader controller supporting SD, CompactFlash, and Memory Stick
Product Overview
Description
The Realtek RTS5261 is a professional-grade USB 3.0 card reader controller supporting SD, microSD, CompactFlash, and Memory Stick formats for professional photography and video applications requiring maximum compatibility.
This controller supports UHS-II SD cards up to 312 MB/s and CompactFlash cards up to 167 MB/s (UDMA 7), enabling fast transfers from professional cameras. The USB 3.0 interface ensures the host connection doesn't bottleneck card speeds.
RTS5261 is the choice for professional card readers, high-end PC front panels, and applications where photographers and videographers need to quickly transfer large RAW image files or 4K/8K video footage.
Product Series
RTS
Primary Application
Professional card readers
Key Features
- USB 3.0 SuperSpeed
- UHS-II SD support (312 MB/s)
- CompactFlash support
- Memory Stick support
- Multi-format in one chip
- Professional grade
- High-speed transfers
- Hot plug support
Specifications
| Interface | USB 3.0 |
|---|---|
| Supported Cards | SD/SDHC/SDXC/microSD + CF + MS |
| Max Capacity | 2TB (SDXC/CF) |
| Max Speed | 5 Gbps (USB 3.0) |
| SD Bus | UHS-II (312 MB/s) |
| CF Support | UDMA 7 (167 MB/s) |
| Power | 5V input |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to +70°C |
| Package | QFN-48 |
| Features | UHS-II, CF support |
Applications
Professional card readers
Electronic system design
High-end PC front panels
Electronic system design
Photography workflows
Electronic system design
Video production
Electronic system design
Professional imaging
Electronic system design
FAE Expert Insights
"RTS5261 is the professional choice. UHS-II support at 312 MB/s is essential for modern high-speed SD cards used in professional cameras. CompactFlash support maintains compatibility with legacy pro equipment. This is what we recommend for professional card readers and high-end PC builds targeting photographers and videographers."
Professional-grade with UHS-II and CompactFlash support
— Kevin Zhang, BeiLuo
Frequently Asked Questions
What is UHS-II and why is it important?
UHS-II (Ultra High Speed II) is a high-speed SD card interface using two rows of pins for differential signaling, enabling speeds up to 312 MB/s. This is crucial for professional cameras recording 4K/8K video or high-speed burst photography. UHS-II cards can write data much faster, reducing buffer clearing time and enabling longer continuous shooting. RTS5261's UHS-II support ensures you can fully utilize these high-speed cards.
UHS-II essential for professional photography/video. 312 MB/s enables 4K/8K workflows.
Why is CompactFlash still supported in RTS5261?
CompactFlash remains relevant in professional photography due to its robust physical design, high reliability, and continued use in professional DSLR cameras (especially Canon and Nikon pro models). Many professional photographers have significant investments in CF cards. RTS5261's CF support ensures compatibility with this professional equipment, making it ideal for professional card readers.
CF support important for professional photography. Many pro cameras still use CF.
What are the PCB layout considerations for UHS-II?
UHS-II requires careful PCB layout due to high-speed differential signals: (1) Keep trace lengths short and matched, (2) Use proper impedance control (100 ohm differential), (3) Minimize vias in high-speed paths, (4) Provide good ground reference, (5) Keep high-speed traces away from noisy signals. Realtek provides detailed layout guidelines in the datasheet. Following these guidelines ensures reliable UHS-II operation.
Careful PCB layout required for UHS-II. Follow Realtek guidelines for best results.
Can all three card types be accessed simultaneously?
RTS5261 supports SD, CF, and MS card slots, but typically only one card is active at a time in standard implementations. The controller switches between card types based on insertion and host commands. For simultaneous multi-card access, specialized multi-slot implementations or multiple controllers would be required. Most applications access one card at a time.
One card active at a time. Multi-slot for format flexibility, not simultaneous access.
What is the target market for RTS5261?
RTS5261 targets professional users: (1) Professional photographers using high-speed SD or CF cards, (2) Videographers working with 4K/8K footage requiring fast transfers, (3) High-end PC builders wanting premium card reader features, (4) Professional imaging workflows in studios and media companies. The UHS-II and CF support command a premium but are essential for these professional applications.
Targeted at professional photography/video markets. Premium features for demanding users.