How to fix a damaged or corrupted memory card

memory cards

We use memory cards in many devices, such as cameras, mobiles, and tablets. Sometimes the inevitable happens; files become corrupted, damaged and unreadable. The downside is that these cards contain valuable files , often because it is the only existing copy of photos, videos or documents. The system does not recognize the inserted card, or it displays various error messages saying that it is not formatted, that it is an incompatible medium, or it simply gives access denied. This can happen with many types of cards, such as SD in its different variants (SDHC, SDXC), micro SD , Compact Flash ( CF), Memory Stick (MS), and even USB memory keys.

The point is that the files stored on the memory card are corrupt , the computer cannot read them, does not recognize them or considers them invalid. The reasons for files to get corrupted can be many. One of the most common is to have removed the memory card directly, without ejecting it safely first . Other times the user has removed the card from the camera or mobile device without turning it off previously. It is also not a good idea to abruptly restart or shut down your computer with a card inserted, or to keep it in sleep or hibernation for too long. If the memory card is infected by malwareit can also cause problems. Therefore, it is convenient to always run the antivirus as soon as you insert it into the computer, and verify that it is clean.

memory cards

It is possible to fix most of the errors with memory cards . To do this, the first thing to do is check its status. To do this, find the drive corresponding to the memory card inserted in the PC and click the right mouse button and select Properties . Then go into Tools and choose the Check Now option . Once the errors have been verified if the result is related to a blocked card, it is necessary to remove it to physically unlock it, moving the little tab that protects it against erasure, and re-insert it into the computer's reader.

In the event that it simply appears that the card is empty, it is necessary to enter the Folder Options so that the hidden files appear. Then you have to choose the View tab and there you have to check the option to Show hidden files, folders and drives and click on the OK button .

Corrupt files can be repaired with various tools. One of the methods to fix it is by using the SFC / SCANNOW command. To do this you have to enter the start menu and look for cmd.exe . This operation must be carried out as an administrator. Enter the command SFC / SCANNOW in the pop-up window (there must be a space between SFC and the forward slash). Then the accept key is pressed. The files will then be scanned and repaired, if necessary. Completing the task may take between ten and twenty minutes, depending on the system.