How to recover data after formatting SD card
Losing important data due to accidentally formatting an SD card can be a frustrating experience. Whether it’s a crucial document, cherished photos, or valuable videos, the thought of losing them forever can be overwhelming. However, there are several effective methods to recover data after formatting an SD card. In this article, we will discuss the most common techniques and provide step-by-step instructions to help you retrieve your lost data.
1. Check the Recycle Bin or Trash
The first step in recovering data after formatting an SD card is to check the Recycle Bin or Trash on your computer. When you format an SD card, the files are not immediately deleted but are instead moved to the Recycle Bin or Trash. This gives you a chance to restore them before they are permanently deleted.
To recover data from the Recycle Bin or Trash:
1. Open the Recycle Bin or Trash on your computer.
2. Locate the files you want to recover from the formatted SD card.
3. Right-click on the files and select “Restore.”
4. The files will be restored to their original location on your computer.
2. Use File Recovery Software
If the Recycle Bin or Trash doesn’t contain the lost data, you can use file recovery software to scan your formatted SD card and recover the deleted files. There are many reliable file recovery tools available, such as Recuva, EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard, and Disk Drill.
To recover data using file recovery software:
1. Download and install a reputable file recovery tool on your computer.
2. Connect the formatted SD card to your computer using a card reader.
3. Open the file recovery software and select your SD card as the target drive.
4. Start the scanning process and wait for the software to complete.
5. Once the scan is finished, preview the recoverable files and select the ones you want to restore.
6. Choose a location on your computer to save the recovered files and click “Restore.”
3. Check for Hidden or System Files
In some cases, the lost data may still be present on the formatted SD card, but hidden or marked as system files. You can use the following steps to check for hidden or system files:
1. Insert the formatted SD card into your computer.
2. Open the File Explorer and navigate to the SD card.
3. Click on the “View” tab and select “Options.”
4. In the “View” options, check the “Show hidden files, folders, and drives” box.
5. Click “Apply” and “OK” to save the changes.
6. You should now be able to see the hidden or system files. Restore the necessary files to a safe location on your computer.
4. Contact a Professional Data Recovery Service
If the above methods fail to recover your data, it may be time to seek professional help. Professional data recovery services have advanced tools and expertise to recover data from formatted SD cards, even in the most severe cases. However, this option can be expensive, so it’s best to try the other methods first.
To contact a professional data recovery service:
1. Search online for reputable data recovery services in your area.
2. Visit their website or call them to discuss your case.
3. Follow their instructions to send your formatted SD card for recovery.
4. Wait for the recovery process to be completed and receive your data.
In conclusion, recovering data after formatting an SD card is possible with the right methods and tools. By following the steps outlined in this article, you should be able to retrieve your lost data and avoid the frustration of permanent loss.
