OWC has revealed that its popular OWC Atlas Pro CFexpress Type A memory cards have a issue which can cause the cards to lock up.
CFexpress Type A card
OWC’s Atlas Pro CFexpress Type A memory cards are compliant with the CFexpress Type A 4.0 specification. As a result, the cards support write speeds up to 1,700 MB/s and 1,850 MB/s read speeds. They are also VPG200 certified to work with all Sony camera modes. In addition, the Atlas Pro CFexpress Type A memory cards are designed to withstand use in challenging conditions. OWC says that the cards are impact, bend, shock, ESD, UV ray and x-ray resistant.
What is the issue?
OWC says that the Atlas Pro CFexpress Type A memory cards have a bug which can cause the cards to lock up. The fault only arises after continuous extended use, described by the companyd as “extreme” use. You cannot write to the card once it has locked up. However, OWC says that your data is still safe and can be retrieved.
Update
OWC has issued a firmware update to address the issue with the Atlas Pro CFexpress Type A memory cards. You can apply the update using the company’s free Innergize software. Unfortunately, you can only use the software with an OWC Atlas memory card reader. It won’t work with other brands of card reader.
Don’t have an OWC card reader?
If you don’t have an OWC card reader, you can contact the company’s technical support team. They will either supply you with a card reader, or arrange for your cards to be shipped to them for updating. Both services are free of charge, including shipping. In addition, if your card has already locked up, you will need to send it to OWC. Again, this is a free service. OWC has also confirmed that your data on the card will be retained through the process.
What we think
Your memory card is a crucial part of your camera system. You need to have confidence that it will safely store your data so that you don’t lose what might be irreplaceable footage. It’s unfortunate therefore that SanDisk, Sony and now OWC have experienced problems with some of their memory cards. However, at least the issue with Atlas Pro CFexpress Type A memory cards doesn’t seem to affect the card’s contents. Although the need to update the firmware is an inconvenience, your video is safe. If you use an OWC Atlas Pro CFexpress Type A memory cards, you should arrange to update the firmware straight away or contact OWC support for further assistance.