How to retrieve deleted files from sd card​?

Retrieving deleted files from an SD card can be a crucial task, especially when important data is lost.

Basics of File Deletion on SD Cards

When you delete a file from an SD card, the operating system typically doesn’t immediately remove the data from the storage medium. Instead, it marks the space occupied by the file as available for reuse and removes the file’s entry from the file system index. The actual data remains on the SD card until it is overwritten by new data. This principle is the foundation for file recovery.

Common Causes of File Deletion on SD Cards

Accidental Deletion: This is one of the most common reasons. You might have accidentally selected and deleted files while trying to manage or organize the content on the SD card.

Formatting the SD Card: Formatting erases all the data on the SD card and resets the file system. This could happen by mistake or when the SD card needs to be initialized for a specific device.

Virus or Malware Attacks: Malicious software can infect the SD card and cause file deletion or corruption.

SD Card Damage or Corruption: Physical damage to the SD card, such as being bent, exposed to water, or suffering from electrical issues, can lead to data loss. Logical errors in the file system due to improper ejection or power failures can also cause files to be inaccessible or appear deleted.

Methods to Retrieve Deleted Files from SD Card

Method 1: Use Data Recovery Software

Panda Assistant is compatible with multiple storage media, including hard drives, USB drives, SD cards, memory cards, and other external storage devices. It also works with a variety of file systems such as NTFS, FAT, and exFAT, ensuring that it can handle recovery tasks across different platforms, including Windows and macOS.

One of the standout features of Panda Assistant is its ability to perform deep scans to locate and recover files that are difficult to retrieve through basic methods. Even files that have been permanently deleted or lost due to formatting or partition loss can be recovered, provided the data has not been overwritten. Panda Assistant also offers preview functionality, allowing users to view recoverable files before performing the actual restoration.

Additionally, Panda Assistant ensures the security and integrity of recovered data. The software avoids overwriting existing files during the recovery process, making it safer to use. For those dealing with complex recovery scenarios, Panda Assistant offers advanced features such as partition recovery, raw recovery, and support for damaged or corrupted storage devices.

Method 2: Use Command Prompt (for Windows Users)

Accessing Command Prompt: Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box. Type “cmd” and press Enter to open the Command Prompt.

Using the Chkdsk Command: In the Command Prompt, type “chkdsk H: /f” (replace “H” with the drive letter assigned to your SD card). This command checks the SD card for errors and attempts to fix them. It can also recover some lost files. Wait for the process to complete.

Using the Attrib Command: After running chkdsk, you can use the attrib command to restore hidden or system files. For example, if you want to restore all files with the hidden and system attributes in a specific folder on the SD card, you can navigate to that folder in the Command Prompt and type “attrib -h -s . /s /d”. This command removes the hidden and system attributes from all files and folders in the current directory and its subdirectories.

Method 3: Use Terminal (for Mac Users)

Accessing Terminal: Open the Terminal application on your Mac. You can find it in the Utilities folder within the Applications folder.

Using the Disk Utility: In the Terminal, you can use the Disk Utility to check and repair the SD card. First, unmount the SD card using the command “diskutil unmountDisk /dev/diskX” (replace “X” with the appropriate disk number for your SD card). Then, run the repair command “diskutil repairDisk /dev/diskX”. This will check for and fix any file system errors on the SD card.

Using Data Recovery Tools in Terminal: There are also command-line data recovery tools available for Mac, such as TestDisk. You can install TestDisk using a package manager like Homebrew. Once installed, you can use it to scan and recover deleted files from the SD card. The basic steps involve running TestDisk, selecting the SD card, and choosing the appropriate recovery options.

Method 4: Recover from a Backup

Check for Local Backups: If you regularly back up your SD card data to your computer or an external hard drive, you can simply restore the deleted files from the backup. Check the backup location and look for the relevant files or folders that were deleted from the SD card.

Cloud Backups: If you have enabled cloud backup services for your device that uses the SD card, such as Google Photos for Android devices or iCloud for iOS devices, you may be able to retrieve the deleted files from the cloud. Log in to the respective cloud service and check the backup history or trash folder to see if the files are available for restoration.

Precautions and Tips

Stop Using the SD Card Immediately: As soon as you realize that files have been deleted, stop using the SD card to prevent new data from being written to it. This reduces the chances of the deleted files being overwritten.

Handle the SD Card with Care: Avoid physical damage to the SD card by handling it gently. Do not bend or expose it to extreme temperatures or moisture. When inserting or removing the SD card from a device or card reader, make sure to do it properly to prevent electrical shorts or other issues.

Regularly Backup Your SD Card Data: To avoid data loss in the future, it’s essential to regularly back up the data on your SD card. You can use external storage devices, cloud services, or backup software to create copies of your important files.

Use Reliable Data Recovery Software: Stick to well-known and trusted data recovery software to ensure the safety of your data and the effectiveness of the recovery process. Avoid using unlicensed or pirated software, as they may contain malware or cause further damage to your data.

Seek Professional Help if Needed: If the above methods do not work or if you are dealing with extremely important data, it may be worth considering professional data recovery services. These services have specialized equipment and expertise to recover data from severely damaged or corrupted SD cards.

Retrieving deleted files from an SD card requires a combination of understanding the underlying principles of file deletion, using the right tools and methods, and taking appropriate precautions. By following the steps and tips outlined above, you can increase the chances of successfully recovering your lost data.