A memory card includes a non-volatile memory, a memory controller for controlling
the operation of the memory card. The memory controller is capable of providing
an interface with outside according to a predetermined protocol, and performs error
detection and correction of the memory information at regular time intervals or
at the timing of connection of electric power supply, independently of reading
out the memory information according to external access request. Therefore, it
is possible to improve reliability of data retention in the non-volatile memory
without the host device reading out the memory information from the non-volatile
memory of the memory card.