How to recover deleted files on microsd card？

MicroSD cards are widely used for storing data in portable devices such as smartphones, cameras, tablets, drones, and more. However, accidental deletion, corruption, or formatting can lead to the loss of important files. The good news is that it’s often possible to recover deleted files from a microSD card using various recovery methods.

MicroSD Card Data Deletion

When a file is deleted from a microSD card, it’s not instantly removed from the storage. The data is simply marked as deleted, and the space it occupies is made available for new data. However, until the data is overwritten by new files, it remains recoverable.

There are several reasons why you might need to recover files from a microSD card:

Accidental deletion: You might have accidentally deleted files.

Formatting the microSD card: You may have formatted the card to clear its contents, but now wish to retrieve the files.

Corruption or system failure: A corrupted file system or errors in your device can result in data loss.

Card damage: If the card is physically damaged, the data may become inaccessible.

Preparations Before Attempting Recovery

Before proceeding with file recovery, it’s crucial to take a few precautionary steps to maximize your chances of success:

Stop Using the MicroSD Card: The first rule of thumb when you notice that files have been deleted is to stop using the microSD card immediately. This prevents the card from writing new data, which could overwrite the deleted files.

Check the Recycle Bin (Windows) or Trash (macOS): In some cases, files deleted from a microSD card may end up in the Recycle Bin or Trash if you were using it on a computer. Make sure to check there first.

Ensure Card is Properly Inserted: Verify that the microSD card is properly inserted into the card reader or device before proceeding with any recovery steps.

Method 1: Using Data Recovery Software

Panda Assistant is a comprehensive data recovery software designed to help users recover lost or deleted files from a wide range of storage devices, including hard drives, SSDs, USB flash drives, memory cards, and more. With its user-friendly interface and powerful scanning algorithms, Panda Assistant makes it easy for both beginners and advanced users to retrieve their important files, whether they were accidentally deleted, lost due to corruption, or lost after formatting.

One of the key features of Panda Assistant is its ability to scan storage devices for all types of lost files, including photos, videos, documents, emails, and even system files. It works by detecting “deleted” data that hasn’t been overwritten yet, allowing users to restore files even after they’ve been emptied from the recycle bin or removed from a formatted drive. The software provides several scanning modes, such as a quick scan for recently deleted files and a deep scan for more thorough searches of deeply buried or damaged files.

Method 2: Using Command Prompt (Windows)

For users who prefer not to rely on third-party software, Windows’ Command Prompt offers a basic way to recover deleted files using the built-in CHKDSK tool. While this method is not as effective as professional data recovery software, it’s worth trying.

Insert the MicroSD Card into the Computer: Connect your microSD card to your computer using a card reader.

Open Command Prompt: Press the Windows key, type cmd, and press Enter to open the Command Prompt.

Use the CHKDSK Command: In the Command Prompt window, type the following command (replace “X” with the actual drive letter of your microSD card):

bash

chkdsk X: /f

Press Enter. The /f flag tells Windows to fix any file system errors it encounters.

Wait for CHKDSK to Scan and Fix Errors: The tool will scan your microSD card and attempt to fix any file system errors. If files are recoverable, they will be restored.

Check the Recovered Files: After the process is complete, check the microSD card for any recovered files.

Method 3: Recovering Files Using a Professional Data Recovery Service

If the above methods do not work, or if your microSD card is physically damaged, you may need to turn to a professional data recovery service. These companies specialize in recovering data from damaged, corrupted, or formatted storage devices.

When to Use a Professional Service:

The microSD card is physically damaged (e.g., broken or waterlogged).

Software recovery methods fail to retrieve the data.

The data is extremely valuable, and you cannot afford to lose it.

Professional recovery services typically use specialized equipment to recover data from damaged storage devices, which could involve cleaning the microSD card, replacing components, or using specialized tools to extract data directly from the memory chips.

While these services can be expensive, they offer the best chances of recovering data that cannot be retrieved through regular software.

Method 4: Recovering from Backup (If Available)

If you’ve previously backed up your microSD card to cloud storage or an external hard drive, you can easily restore deleted files by accessing the backup. Most modern devices, such as smartphones, cameras, and computers, offer automatic backup options (e.g., Google Photos, Apple iCloud, Dropbox).

Steps to Restore from Backup:

Check Your Backup Service: Log in to your cloud storage or external backup solution to check if your deleted files are backed up.

Locate the Deleted Files: Browse through your backup for the deleted files you want to restore.

Download or Transfer the Files: Download the recovered files and transfer them back to the microSD card.

Check the Restored Files: Once restored, verify the files to ensure they are intact and accessible.

Troubleshooting and Tips

Card Not Recognized: If your microSD card is not recognized by your computer, try using a different card reader or USB port. You can also check the device settings to ensure the card is not disabled.

Data Corruption: If you experience data corruption after recovery, the files may have been partially overwritten or damaged during deletion. In such cases, professional data recovery might be the best option.

Multiple Recovery Attempts: Repeated attempts to recover deleted files can sometimes cause further damage, so use recovery software only once or twice, and avoid writing data to the card.