How to Reset an SD Card
By Richard Kalinowski
Secure Digital (SD) cards are designed as a flash storage device, offering quick data transfer with low power requirements. SD cards are used in digital cameras, video cameras, MP3 players, smart phones and other devices. The cards are widely compatible across many operating systems, and you can manage your files from most computers by inserting the card into the computer. If your card is cluttered with too many files, or if you want to get rid of sensitive information on the card, you can reset it. Formatting the SD card deletes existing data and wipes the card clean.
Insert your SD card into an open SD slot on your computer. If your computer does not have an SD card slot, you cannot reformat the card with your existing personal computer. You'll need to plug an external USB SD card reader into your computer or use a friend's computer.
Click on the Windows "Start" menu and select "Computer."
Right-click on the SD card. It is often labeled as drive "E."
Click "Format."
Click "OK" when Windows asks if you're sure that you want to reformat the card. A progress bar will appear. Once the bar fills up, a pop-up lets you know that the SD card is reformatted and ready for use. The card is now completely reset and purged of old files.
References
- "CWTS: Certified Wireless Technology Specialist Official Study Guide: Exam PW0-070"; Robert J. Bartz; 2009
- Microsoft: Formatting Disks and Drives
Writer Bio
Richard Kalinowski began writing professionally in 2006. He also works as a website programmer and graphic designer for several clients. Kalinowski holds a Master of Fine Arts from Goddard College and a Bachelor of Science in education from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater.