How to delete all partitions in sd card​？

An SD card (Secure Digital card) is a portable storage medium widely used in digital devices such as cameras, smartphones, tablets, and even gaming consoles. Just like hard drives and other storage devices, SD cards are often divided into partitions to help organize data efficiently. However, there are times when users need to delete all partitions on the SD card, such as when they want to format the card for a fresh use or when the partitions are corrupted or misconfigured.

Deleting all partitions from an SD card essentially means removing all data and any partitions that have been created on the card. This can be done through several methods, depending on the operating system you’re using and the available tools.

What Is a Partition?

A partition is a logically defined section of a storage device, like an SD card. Each partition behaves like a separate unit that the operating system can format, store data, and access independently. SD cards can have multiple partitions, each used for different purposes, such as one partition for system files and another for personal data.

Types of Partitions on SD Cards

Primary Partition: The main partition of the SD card that holds the data, system files, or media content.

Extended Partition: A partition that acts as a container for additional logical partitions.

Logical Partitions: These reside inside an extended partition and can be used to store data or install software.

Most SD cards have a single partition, but if you’ve been using the card for various purposes, it might have multiple partitions. Sometimes, these partitions are created automatically when the SD card is used for certain applications or devices, such as for storing a device’s operating system files or media data.

Precautions Before Deleting Partitions

Before deleting partitions, keep the following precautions in mind:

Backup Your Data: Deleting partitions will erase all the data stored on the SD card. Ensure that you have backed up any important files elsewhere.

Check the Card for Errors: Use your operating system’s built-in tools to check the card for errors before proceeding. Corrupted cards can sometimes cause issues during partition deletion.

Verify the Correct Card: If you have multiple SD cards or external storage devices, double-check that you are working with the correct one. Deleting partitions from the wrong storage device can result in permanent data loss.

Methods to Delete All Partitions on an SD Card

Now that we understand what partitions are and the precautions necessary, let’s explore several methods to delete partitions from an SD card.

Method 1: Using Windows Disk Management

If you’re using a Windows computer, the built-in Disk Management tool can help you delete all partitions on an SD card.

Steps to Delete Partitions Using Disk Management:

Insert the SD Card: Insert the SD card into your computer using a card reader.

Open Disk Management:

Press Windows + X to open the Power User menu.

Select “Disk Management” from the list.

Locate the SD Card: In the Disk Management window, find the SD card under the list of disks. It will usually be listed as “Disk 1” or “Disk 2.” and its size will correspond to the SD card’s capacity.

Delete Partitions:

Right-click on each partition on the SD card and select “Delete Volume.”

A warning will appear stating that this action will erase all data on the partition. Confirm by clicking “Yes.”

Delete All Partitions: Repeat the process for each partition until there are no partitions left on the SD card.

Format the SD Card (Optional):

After deleting the partitions, the card may appear as “Unallocated.” To make it usable again, right-click on the unallocated space and select “New Simple Volume.”

Follow the on-screen instructions to format the card and create a new partition.

This method is effective and simple but may not work if the SD card has corrupted partitions or special configurations that prevent modification.

Method 2: Using Diskpart (Command Prompt)

Diskpart is a command-line utility available in Windows that allows you to perform advanced disk operations, including deleting partitions.

Steps to Delete Partitions Using Diskpart:

Insert the SD Card: Insert your SD card into the card reader.

Open Command Prompt:

Press Windows + R, type cmd, and press Enter to open the Command Prompt.

Type diskpart and press Enter to launch the Diskpart utility.

List Available Disks:

Type list disk and press Enter to display all the connected disks, including your SD card.

Find your SD card by matching its size.

Select the SD Card:

Type select disk X (replace “X” with the number corresponding to your SD card) and press Enter.

Delete All Partitions:

Type clean and press Enter. This will delete all partitions on the SD card, wiping all data in the process.

Create a New Partition (Optional):

Type create partition primary to create a new partition on the SD card.

Type format fs=exfat to format the SD card (you can choose FAT32 or NTFS if you prefer).

Type assign to assign a drive letter to the card.

Exit Diskpart: Type exit and press Enter to close the Diskpart utility.

Diskpart is an excellent option for users who are comfortable with the command line and need more control over the process.

Method 3: Using macOS Disk Utility

If you are using a Mac, Disk Utility is the built-in tool for managing partitions and formatting storage devices, including SD cards.

Steps to Delete Partitions Using Disk Utility:

Insert the SD Card: Insert your SD card into the Mac’s SD card slot or use a card reader.

Open Disk Utility:

Press Command + Space, type “Disk Utility,” and press Enter.

Locate the SD Card: In the left pane of Disk Utility, find the SD card under “External.”

Delete Partitions:

Select the SD card and click “Erase.”

From the format dropdown menu, choose a new file system (such as ExFAT or FAT32) and click “Erase.”

This will delete all partitions on the SD card and format it with a new partition.

Exit Disk Utility: After the process is complete, you can exit Disk Utility.

Disk Utility is a powerful tool on macOS and is very user-friendly, making it a great option for Mac users.

Method 4: Using Third-Party Software

There are various third-party software tools available that can help you delete partitions from your SD card, often providing more features and control than built-in utilities. Some popular options include:

EaseUS Partition Master

MiniTool Partition Wizard

AOMEI Partition Assistant

These tools often come with graphical interfaces, making it easier to manage partitions without needing to use command-line instructions.

Example Using EaseUS Partition Master:

Download and Install EaseUS Partition Master.

Launch the Program and find your SD card in the list of devices.

Select the SD Card and click “Delete Partition” to remove all partitions.

Apply Changes by clicking “Apply” at the bottom to execute the action.

Risks and Considerations

Data Loss: Deleting partitions removes all data. Ensure you have backed up everything you need before proceeding.

Card Corruption: If the SD card is physically damaged or has internal faults, deleting partitions might not solve the problem and could potentially make it unusable.

Read-Only Cards: Some SD cards are write-protected or have a physical switch to prevent writing. Make sure the card is not write protected before attempting to delete partitions.

Deleting all partitions from an SD card is a straightforward process but should be done with caution to avoid accidental data loss. Whether you’re using built-in tools like Disk Management or Disk Utility, or third-party software like EaseUS Partition Master, ensure that you follow each step carefully. Always back up your data before making any changes to your SD card, and double-check that you’re working on the correct device.