Introduction
Recovering a formatted SD card can be a daunting task, but with the right approach and tools, it is possible to retrieve your lost data. Whether you accidentally formatted your SD card or it became corrupted, this article will guide you through the process of recovering your valuable files.
Understanding the Formatting Process
Before delving into the recovery methods, it’s essential to understand what happens when an SD card is formatted. Formatting erases the file system on the card, making it appear empty. However, the actual data remains intact until it is overwritten by new files. This means that as long as you haven’t added new data to the card after formatting, there is a good chance of recovering your lost files.
Recovering Formatted SD Card Using Data Recovery Software
One of the most effective ways to recover a formatted SD card is by using data recovery software. These programs are specifically designed to scan the memory card and retrieve lost files. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Stop using the SD card immediately after formatting to prevent any new data from overwriting the old files.
Step 2: Download and install a reliable data recovery software such as EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard, Recuva, or Disk Drill.
Step 3: Connect the formatted SD card to your computer using a card reader.
Step 4: Launch the data recovery software and select the formatted SD card as the target location for the scan.
Step 5: Start the scan and wait for the software to analyze the card and retrieve the lost files.
Step 6: Once the scan is complete, preview the recovered files and select the ones you want to recover.
Step 7: Choose a new location to save the recovered files and click on the “Recover” button to restore them.
Recovering Formatted SD Card Using Command Prompt
If you prefer a manual approach, you can use the Command Prompt utility in Windows to recover a formatted SD card. Here’s how:
Step 1: Connect the formatted SD card to your computer using a card reader.
Step 2: Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box, then type “cmd” and press Enter to open the Command Prompt.
Step 3: In the Command Prompt window, type “chkdsk X: /f” (replace X with the drive letter assigned to the SD card) and press Enter.
Step 4: Wait for the Command Prompt to scan and fix any errors on the SD card. This process may take some time.
Step 5: Once the scan is complete, check if your files have been recovered. If not, you can try using data recovery software as mentioned earlier.
Conclusion
Recovering a formatted SD card is possible with the right tools and methods. Whether you choose to use data recovery software or the Command Prompt utility, remember to stop using the SD card immediately after formatting and follow the steps carefully. Always make sure to back up your important files regularly to avoid data loss.
References
– EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard: www.easeus.com/datarecoverywizard/
– Recuva: www.ccleaner.com/recuva
– Disk Drill: www.cleverfiles.com/disk-drill-windows.html
