Micro SD cards have become the de facto way to boost the memory in mobile devices such as e-readers, smartphones and tablets. But, while highly portable, the cards are susceptible to damage as the connectors are exposed.

Step forward Samsung, which has developed what it claims is a near-indestructible memory card. The MB-MS8GA is resistant to shock, water and magnets - more than traditional devices, and comes with a five-year warranty.

V3 tested the 8GB Class 6 card, which comes with an SD adapter allowing it to fit into most all-in-one card readers. We found the card reasonably quick, a 1GB transfer taking just over 45 seconds. After loading it to the brim, we set out to test the card to destruction.

Water test
Samsung claims that the card is waterproof, and will work even after 24 hours immersed in sea water. Protection is provided by Epoxy Moulding Compound technology, and we concocted our own brand of saline to see whether the claims are true. We left the card in the solution overnight and, after a quick rub down, popped it into our PC. The device appeared in My Computer as if nothing had happened and was good to go.

Spillages are all too common in the home and office, so we decided to drop the card into a cup of hot tea. Impressively, the card showed no ill effects even when the tea was mixed with milk. Those who do a lot of water sports, or who are accident prone, can be assured that their data will remain protected.

Verdict- Passed

Magnet test
Magnets are well known as being able to wipe data on digital devices, and Samsung has built in protection to stop this happening. The MB-MS8GA card can withstand a magnetic field of 10,000 gauss, according to the firm, and had no problems when coming into close contact with small magnets around the office.

This high level of protection means that the card is safe to use around large home theatre systems and even an MRI scanner.
Verdict - Passed

Shock testing
The MB-MS8GA is designed to withstand the weight of a 1.6-tonne truck, according to Samsung. Of course, dropping the device in front of such a vehicle and living to tell the tale is unlikely, so we tested the card in less dangerous ways.

The card survived a drop from shoulder height onto the concrete floor, a trip down a flight of stairs and being stepped on multiple times with a size 10 boot.

The only way we were able to inflict any damage was with a good old-fashioned hammer. Even then, the card managed to fend off a couple of blows before bits started to fly off. It finally succumbed after the third and fourth blows.

Considering that we used excessive force, and that the card is unlikely ever to be accidentally subjected to hammer blows, we think Samsung's claims are valid.
Verdict - Passed

Overall
The Samsung MB-MS8GA is not quite indestructible, but it's a good choice for the adventurous and accident prone. The card is rugged enough to survive rough treatment and spillages, and the water proofing and magnet proofing live up to the billing. The card would be the perfect little companion to the ruggedised Motorola Defy smartphone or a waterproof camera.

The only thing that Samsung has left out is a tracking device, so if you lose the card it's going to be as hard to find as any other micro SD card.

MemoryCardZoo offers an 8GB peripheral for £11.40, which is no more expensive than competing cards and is well worth the investment.