The Secure Digital Memory Card is a device designed for reading and writing various types of digital information. This media is mainly used in portable electronic devices: digital cameras, e-books, GPS navigators, some kinds of gaming consoles, etc. The size of a card makes it easy to use in various appliances.
SD memory cards are frequently used on a daily basis. People entrust all their valuable data to these memory cards and depend on their error-free performance. However, as with any data storage device, SD cards are susceptible to failure and data loss.
Reasons for SD Card Failure
Failure of an SD card is a complicated situation, which can cause many problems for the user, especially if there is a single copy. Knowing the possible reason for a memory card malfunction, the user can be prepared for a negative development and protect their valuable data.
The possible reasons for failure fall into two categories: mechanical damage and software malfunction.
Physical Data Loss Reasons
Memory Card Case Breakage. This type of damage to the SD memory card is the most common, as the casing is not robust and can be easily damaged by a small impact. Cracks and chips appear, the lock stops functioning, the contact connectors are scratched, etc., which leads to data loss.
Controller Failure. The controller manages the processes in the memory card. Its failure is accompanied by inaccessibility to a card. The operating system in such a scenario does not recognize the card. Even if the SD card is shown in the system, the size of the data stored on it will not be correct.
Limitation of SD Card Endurance. Flash memory devices, unfortunately, have limitations in their data writing ability. When the limit for the number of cycles is reached, the memory degrades, which is immediately indicated. The data becomes inaccessible to the user.
Failed Card Reader or Connector. The memory card may be in working condition, but the device’s connector is damaged. Connect the card to another device that has no issues to check the card’s operability. Sometimes, this procedure may be enough to confirm the card is working.
Logical Data Loss Reasons
File System Error. An error in the file system makes it impossible to use the SD card. The device requires the operating system to format it. This kind of corruption can be fixed by restoring duplicate entries using the built-in disk tools of the OS.
Operating System Corruption. In some cases, the problems with internal control of the computer device can lead to errors that affect the memory card. This malfunction results in the failure of an SD memory card, making the files stored here inaccessible.
File System Incompatibility. Due to a lack of compatibility, the interaction of an obsolete SD card file system with a modern file system can lead to errors and subsequent damage to the memory card.
Interruption of Data Transfer. If the process of copying or transferring files from the SD card to a personal computer is interrupted due to a power failure, forced removal of the card, or any other reason, the SD card will probably be damaged.
Unsafe SD Card Removal. Disconnecting the external media from a computer using a safe option is always preferable. In another case, there is an increased risk of data corruption and loss of performance of the SD card.
Common Signs of SD Card Failure
Failure of an SD card rarely stays unnoticeable. Memory device often indicates that it is damaged and needs to be repaired or fixed. When any failure sign is detected, users should immediately stop using the memory card to prevent a further data damage.
There are Several Signs a User Should Pay Attention to:
- Data stored on the memory card is not accessible. It is not fully displayed or can show an error message when accessing it.
- When using a device, an error message appears that writing data on the device is impossible.
- When the system accesses the memory card, it asks you to format it for future use.
- The operating system notifies you of reading errors, or the computer freezes when connecting the memory card.
When facing any of these signs of your SD memory card, it is essential to be careful with the next steps. The first step is safely saving or transferring the data to the computer if possible.
To make a failure situation manageable, we advise performing regular backups of the valuable data. This way, if something is wrong with the device, there will be insufficient losses that will not affect a user.
Hence, if you have a backup of your data, you can safely transfer it to the new device, so there will be no need to fix an old one. However, if you have only one copy that is stored on the SD card, you should be very cautious.
Do not try to fix the device yourself, as it may significantly worsen the situation. Many SD card recovery tools on the Internet guarantee successful results, but using them on a failed card is very risky. Moreover, using a free version of data recovery software to recover files on your SD card can overwrite your lost files, leading to permanent data loss.
If the SD memory card fails due to physical damage, it is essential not to open the device in unspecialized facilities. SD cards are fragile devices that require a specialized and individual approach.
If there is a need to recover data from a corrupted SD card, it is essential to entrust the professionals with it. This way, you have the highest chance of successful recovery.
SD Card Recovery with PITS Global
PITS Global Data Recovery Services provides recovery of corrupted, crashed, and failed SD memory cards. Our laboratory is equipped with the latest tools and advanced technologies. We perform the recovery from memory cards at the highest level of precision, as we understand the importance of each step when working with such devices.
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Our aim is to provide our clients with the maximum recovery, and we can easily achieve it with our skilled engineers. We will safely recover your valuable data, providing you with a positive experience.
Start your case with our data recovery experts today by filling in the request help form below. You can also contact us by calling 888.611.0737. We will gladly help you with your SD card data loss case, doing our best to restore your files.