How to Compress an SD Card

By Perry Piekarski

i SD card image by berg_bcn from Fotolia.com

SD cards are a commonly used memory format for devices like digital cameras and some video game consoles. However, your SD card can store any data you desire, making it practical for backing up information or bringing your files with you when you're on the go. The amount of space available on an SD card depends on the card, but the space is always limited. Compressing the data on an SD card can cut down on the size of the files on the device, allowing you to fit a bit more and make the most out of the card.

Step 1

Insert the SD card into your PC. If your PC lacks SD card slots, you need a SD to USB converter. Put the SD card into the converter and insert it into any USB slot on your computer.

Step 2

Click the "Start" button on the taskbar and open My Computer/Computer. The shortcut key to bring up the same menu is the "Windows" key plus "E."

Step 3

Right-click the SD card on the My Computer/Computer menu and select "Open".

Step 4

Select all of the SD card's contents by pressing "Ctrl+A." Alternatively, you can select individual files to be grouped by holding "Ctrl" while clicking each file.

Step 5

Right-click the selection, hover over "Send to," and click "Compressed (zipped) folder." A zipped folder will appear on the card within a few seconds, and you can now safely delete the uncompressed data on the card.

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