How to Delete SD Cards
By Perry Piekarski
SD cards are a common memory format used in digital cameras and other electronic devices, though they're capable of storing any file format if the card is large enough to hold it. Many desktops and laptops come with an SD card slot already built in, making content management and uploading a breeze. Deleting the content of an SD card is easy to do, and there are several ways to approach this using your PC.
Step 1
Insert the SD card into your PC using the SD slot (usually located on the front of your desktop's tower or along one of the sides of your laptop). If your computer lacks an SD slot, you will need an SD to USB converter. This plugs into any of your computer's USB ports and enables you to connect an SD card.
Step 2
Click on the "Start" icon on the desktop, then open the "Computer" or "My Computer" menu.
Step 3
Locate the SD card on the list in the My Computer/Computer menu.
Step 4
Right-click the SD card on the list and select "Format" to open the Format menu, which will let you delete all of the contents of the card. Double-click the card to open it and view its contents. You can delete the contents of the card this way as well by pressing "Ctrl+A," right-clicking the selection and sending the contents to the Recycle Bin.
Step 5
Format the card through the Format menu by clicking "Start." The settings for formatting the card can be adjusted here as well. A quick format, while not as thorough, takes less time than a normal format.
References
Tips
- Sometimes the primary device you're using the card with allows you to format and delete files yourself. The manual should contain instructions.
Warnings
- Always back up your files before formatting or deleting the data on your SD card.
Writer Bio
Supported by his wit, charm and love for language, Perry Piekarski is a professional writer holding a Bachelor of Arts in professional writing from Kutztown University of Pennsylvania. Piekarski is the former Executive Editor of Binge Gamer, a full-time sales associate at Best Buy and, whenever he has an extra moment, a freelance writer.