How to Put a MicroSD in a Dell Computer

By C. Taylor

Updated September 22, 2017

MicroSD cards conveniently transfer files between your cell phone and Dell computer.
i David Paul Morris/Getty Images News/Getty Images

The impressively small size of MicroSD memory cards make them the preferred medium for cell phones and ultra-compact electronics. These tiny cards significantly boost the internal storage of peripheral devices, but they also enable you to conveniently transfer files between the device and your Dell computer. To read the microSD device, your Dell needs to have a card reader. Most modern Dell laptop and desktop models will have an integrated card reader, but older models may require an external USB card reader. Even if your Dell contains a card reader, it may not accept microSD cards, but a simple adapter converts it into a Dell-compatible SD card.

SD Card Adapter

Many Dell computers do not come with a built-in microSD card reader so you may need to purchase one from an electronics store or online. If your Dell computer comes with a reader and if your card reader supports microSD cards, you can insert the card directly into the reader. If not, then purchase the SD card adapter and insert the microSD card into the adapter. Most microSD cards come with an adapter when you buy them. Make sure both labels are oriented in the same direction with the smaller end of the microSD card going into the adapter first.

Make sure to slide the lock on the SD card adapter into the "Unlocked" position to allow writing to the card.

USB Card Reader

Plug an external USB card reader into an available USB port on your Dell computer. This is only necessary if your Dell computer does not have a card reader. After you have plugged the USB card reader into your computer, insert the microSD card or SD card adapter into the card reader. For most Dell laptop and desktop card readers, the memory card's label should be face-up, but that is not always the case. If you cannot find specific instructions, you may need to experiment, but don't force anything. The card should only fit in one direction and require no force.

Accessing Files

Click "Open Folder to View Files" in the AutoPlay window on your Windows 7, 8 or 10 computer, which appears shortly after inserting the microSD card. Doing so opens Windows Explorer to view the microSD card's contents on your Dell computer.

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