Brief summary
SD cards are widely used in digital cameras, digital devices and computers as a convenient way to create additional storage capacity. They provide users with a compact and portable way to store and share much more data than their devices' built-in capabilities offer. As with all storage media, there is always a chance that data loss can occur, and very often the cause of data loss (or lack of access to data) is the corruption of your memory card.
Jump to:
- Recover data from damaged SD card
- Try to repair a damaged/damaged SD card
SD and MicroSD cards can become corrupted for various reasons, making it impossible to access the data stored on the card. As you can imagine, this can be very disturbing, especially if the card contains photos or videos of a unique event, such as a wedding or birthday party. Fortunately, there are several methods you can use to try to repair a corrupted SD card. We will show you how to get back your valuable data from corrupted SD card.
You may have had a similar situationdescribed by this user:
So I just got back from a shoot, put my SD card in my card reader and copied the files from the card to my computer. Anyway, I tried that, but after the first image, Windows reported an error saying that the attached media was not formatted into a recognizable file system.
Scenarios like this can lead to immediate panic when you think of all the irreplaceable memories captured in the images on the card. Take a deep breath and try to relax. We will help you get through this and hopefully get all your files back.
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IMPORTANT: The first part of this article describes the causes of SD card corruption and the methods to fix it. If you are reading this article because you want to recover lost data from corrupted SD card, then feel free to proceedthis episode.
How to detect that your SD card is damaged
There isseveral signs that an SD card is getting damaged. Knowing what they are can help you minimize data loss and warn you that you may need to recover from a corrupt SD card. If you notice these issues, it is a good idea to delete your data from the card and fix the corruption before any further damage occurs.
🤔Missing files | A common sign that an SD card is becoming corrupt is when files become corruptedsuddenly disappearedof the device. If you are looking at the photos you took yesterday and some of them are not there, then you may be experiencing card corruption. |
⛔Strange error messages | Unexplained error messages such as "Access Denied" or "Card Not Formatted" when you try to view the card are signals that it is damaged. |
⚠️Card not recognized | As yourthe card is not recognizedof your operating system, this may be due to storage media corruption. |
⚙️Device error | A damaged SD card can cause the device it is connected to to malfunction. This may appear in a black screen on your digital camera or on a“SD card error” message.on yourBecome a prowhen you try to access the storage device. |
❓Unknown files | Another sign that your card is damaged is the appearance of unknown files. This could be due to a virus attack that logically damages your card. |
📭The SD card appears to be empty | A card that appears empty (blanco) on your device if you know there is data on it, it could be a sign that the device is damaged. |
🔃Reading and writing errors | If you are having trouble reading or writing to a card, it may be damaged. |
Best Methods to Repair Corrupted/Damaged SD Cards
Various techniques can be used to try to repair a damaged or damaged SD card. Here are some of the most common methods you can try.
Method 1:Try a different card reader
Maybe the problem isn't with the card, but with the reader. Make sure it is actually the card before attempting to recover data from it.
Method 2:Make sure hidden files are shown by your operating system
You may need to change the display settings to ensure that all files on your SD card can be viewed. Here's how you do it.
Windows 10
- Type in the search field on the taskbarmapand then selectShow hidden files and foldersfrom the search results.
- Under Advanced settings, select Show hidden files, folders, and drives, then select OK.
Mac
- Open in de Finder de map Macintosh HD.
- PressCommand+Shift+Periode.
- Hidden files are now visible.
Method 3:Assign a drive letter to the device to see if that resolves the issue
If your Windows operating system does not recognize the card, try this simple solution. Drive letters are not relevant on Mac systems.
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- OpenDisk management.
- Right-click on the drive for which you want to change or add a drive letter and then selectChange the drive letter and paths.
- To electAddofChangedepending on what you want to do on the SD card.
- Enter the new drive letter and pressOkay.
Method 4:Use operating system tools like CHKDSK on Windows or Disk Utility on Mac to repair SD card
Be careful when performing a repair as there is a risk of data loss when the operating system prepares the media for use. You may want to use recovery software to save the data before performing any repairs on the card.
ramen
- Open a command prompt on your Windows computer.
- Typechkdsk'driving letter'/Fand busyEnter.
- PressYuntil the command prompt appears again.
- Enter the drive letter and pressEnter.
- Enter this command: drive letter:attribuut –h –r –s /s /d *.*.
Mac
- Insert the SD card into the Mac.
- Navigate toUtilitiesmap.
- Double clickDisk Utilityplan.
- Click once on the SD card icon.
- click onE.H.B.O.the tab.
- ClickRepair disk. in the lower right corner of the main screen.
- Wait until the status bar is full.
Method 5:Reinstall the drivers for the devices that aren't working properly to see if that resolves the problem
It's definitely worth a try if you don't have access to your data.
ramen
- Right click onMy computerand clickControlpossibility.
- ClickDevice management.
- Double clickDisk drivefrom the list.
- Right-click on your SD card from the menu.
- ClickTo deleteand thenOkay.
- Unmount your SD card before restarting your computer.
- When the computer restarts, reconnect the SD card.
Mac
- Go to the Apple menu and select System Preferences.
- Click Software Update.
- Check if updates are available for your system and programs.
Method 6:Format the SD card to make it usable again after it has been damaged
This will erase all data on the device and should only be done if other methods have been exhausted. Try using recovery software to retrieve the data soonerformat your card. Use the appropriate steps for your operating system.
ramen
- Connect the SD card to your computer.
- Open Windows Explorer.
- Right-click on the SD card and selectFormat.
- Select the file system you want to use to format the card.
- ClickBeginto format the storage device.
Mac
- Insert the SD card into the Mac.
- Navigate toUtilitiesmap.
- Double clickDisk Utilityplan.
- Click once on the SD card icon.
- click onTo deletethe tab.
- Specify the desired name format and schema information.
- ClickTo deleteto perform the format.
Method 7:Bridge datagendannelsessoftware
The most reliable method to recover data from corrupt SD card is includeddatagendannelsessoftware. It scans the device for recoverable data and you can save it to a new and safe location.
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Interesting reading:Best SD Card Repair Tools Worth Trying
Recover data from corrupted memory card using SD card recovery software
INreliable way to recover files from corrupted SD card or other disk-based data storage device is includedSD card data recovery software. In cases where important data is stored on the card and a quick fix doesn't work, you may want to recover the data with software before trying more destructive methods such as formatting the card.
There are free and freemium solutions available for this and we'll look at two of them.
Option A: Disc drill
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Disk drillis a freemium data recovery program thatprovides an easy-to-use method to recover lost datafrom any disk-based storage device. The tool is available for Windows and Mac systems and uses a slightly different interface for each platform. Here are the simple steps you use to recover data with Disk Drill.
- To retrieveand install the version of Disk Drill for your operating system. Install it on the main hard drive of your computer as you are recovering data from an external device.
- Connect the SD card to the computer with the built-in reader or an external device. You can try connecting the camera or mobile device or using an additional card reader.
- Launch Disk Drill and select the damaged memory card from the app's disk list.
- click onTo recoverbutton on Mac orSearch for lost databutton on Windows systems. This will launch the tool's scanning algorithms, which will find all recoverable data on the SD card.
- Disk Drill presents a list of files that can be recovered. You can preview the files and choose which ones you want to recover.
- Select the files you want to recover and specify a new storage location for the recovered data. Do not store them on the SD card as this may cause further file damage or overwrite data before they can be retrieved.
- Click the Restore button to perform the restore. Your selected files will be restored to the designated storage location.
Option B: Photo capture
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Now compare this method, which allows the user to recover in a few clicks, with the process required with a free tool such asPhoto recording. The first thing you notice is that PhotoRec does not have a user-friendly interface. To use the tool, you must be willing to get started with the command line and know something about data recovery techniques. Here are the steps you need to perform to recover using PhotoRec.
- To retrieve, install and launch PhotoRec.
- Launch the app on your operating system using the administrator-level credentials.
- Use the command line navigation to select the storage device you want to restore.
- Select the partition that will be recovered.
- Specify parameters to manage the application settings.
- Select the type of files you want to recover.
- Select the file system type.
- Select a location to save recovered files.
- Perform the recovery. Files are given a common name and you should preview and rename them as you see fit.
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The use of free software often involves compromises in functionality and ease of use. Disk Drill is a far superior recovery platform that minimizes complexity while delivering better results. This is not the time to try to save a few dollars if valuable data is at risk. It is in your best interest to use a reliable data recovery tool.
Basics of DIY Corrupted SD Card Data Recovery
Data recovery software can get your valuable information back regardless of the type of files deleted. Software can help your:
- Photo's
- Videos
- Documents
- Presentations
- Sound files
- And much more
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The data that can be recovered from a damaged SD card depends on how the card has been used since the damage occurred. Data deleted from storage devices usually still physically exists on the media until the space it takes up is used to store new information. This means that if you continue to use an SD card after you suspect it is damaged, you risk overwriting the files you want to recover.
The best chance for a successful recovery is to stop using the card as soon as you notice any problems with it. It's a good practice to have an extra card or two with you when you take photos or videos so you can deal with situations like this. Don't risk everything on the card by taking a few more photos if you know the device is having problems.
Specific to the data recovery process on different types of devices
Some recovery methods are specific to certain types of electronic devices. Here are some tips for attempting data recovery from different devices that use SD cards for storage.
- 📱Mobile phones and devices– Users ofSamsung Android phones,iPhones, or tablets can attempt to recover lost data from the apps that created the files. There are often "Recently Deleted" folders that temporarily store deleted data for easy recovery.
- 📷Digital cameras– Most digital camera manufacturers like itSony,CanonInNikonhas built-in storage that can temporarily store deleted images. If you act quickly, this device feature can often help you undo a file deletion.
- 💻Laptop computers– You may be able to recover a deleted file from an SD card that was connected to your laptop by searchingMac TrashofWindows Recycle Bin. Deleted files are temporarily stored in these locations so that they can be recovered quickly and easily.
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If these methods don't work, you can recover data from corrupted SD card using data recovery software.
Other SD card related issues
The problem of card corruption often results from a logical problem with the file system used on the device. However, there are several other issues that can affect your ability to use an SD card but are not related to the card itself. Some of them are:
- Problems with the card reader– The problem could be a faulty internal or external card reader. Try using the card with another reader to determine the cause of the problem.
- Bad USB port– The port you connect an external reader to may be an error. Try a different USB port if one is available, or connect to another computer if necessary. This way you can determine if the SD card is the problem.
- Damaged SD card– A damaged card often has the same problems as a damaged card. Inspect the card for physical damage, such as bent or dusty connectors. If you have a serious injury, you may need oneMemory card recovery serviceto save the data.
One Minute Theory: What Is SD Card Corruption Anyway?
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SD card corruption is the term used to describe various issues that affect the logical representation of data on the device. The corruption makes it impossible to see or access the data on the card. Your operating system cannot recognize the files and folders on the drive, even if they are still intact.
Corruption can be caused by human error, virus infections and other forms of abuse. If you are careful with your cards, you can minimize the chance of damaging your cards.
How to prevent SD card corruption in the future
Here are some tips to help you keep the data on your SD cards safe. Follow them to minimize the risk of damaging your memory cards.
- Use high quality SD cards– Reliable market leaders such asKingston,Samsung,Lexar,Toshiba,PNYofPanasonicmanufacture their SD cards according to strict quality standards. Using these cards instead of cheap alternatives will result in less memory card damage.
- Avoid viruses and malware– Running an effective antivirus package is imperative for all computer users. SD cards are often shared and used across devices, which may not be fully protected againstmalware infection. To reduce the chance of your card getting one, only allow your cards to be used in devices or computers that you know are free of viruses.
- Be careful during data transfer– Do not remove an SD card from a device or card reader while data is being read or written. Incomplete data transfer due to prematurely removing cards from the device can lead to file corruption.
- Keep the cards safe– It is good practice to prevent physical damage by keeping cards in protective sleeves. Also keep the cards away from extreme heat or moisture, as these factors can damage the storage media.
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Did you know?Many fake memory cards are sold under the names of reliable manufacturers. These can cause problems by being destroyed more easily or experiencing reduced performance. You may buy a card online expecting a certain read/write speed or capacity, and be unfortunately surprised by the performance the card delivers. You can often recognize fake SD cards by inaccuracies in the labels on the card. They may point out that the card is manufactured by a company that doesn't even make SD cards. Be careful when choosing your SD cards.
FAQ
No. If the card is really damaged, use a computer to fix the problem.
Yes, by using data recovery software you can do thatrecover files from your SD card without formatting. Follow these simple steps:
- Download, install and launch Disk Drill.
- Connect the SD card to your computer and select it in the app.
- Scan the card for lost data.
- Preview the files that can be recovered and make your selections for recovery.
- Perform the recovery by saving the files to a safe storage location.
Formatting a damaged SD card can be a quick way to repair and reuse the card. Unfortunately, this process will erase the data on the card, so it is not recommended until you have used recovery software to recover your files. However, it is still possiblerecover data from formatted memory cardif the "quick" formatting method was used to format the card.
racechkdskmay lead to data loss if you let the utility perform repair functions. Repairing bad sectors may delete some data. Ifchkdskdetects errors, consider using recovery software to save the data before completely repairing the drive.
Yes that is true. Areliable data recovery servicemay be able to recover the files from a physically damaged memory card.
About the article
Staff writer Robert Agar
This article was written byRobert Agar, a staff writer at Handy Recovery. It was also checked for technical accuracy byAndrei Vasiliev, our editorial advisor.
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