How to Format the SD Card on a Camera
By Traci Joy
A secure digital card provides additional memory space for your digital camera. You should always format the card before you use it the first time, and while you can format it on your PC, it's preferable that you format the card on your camera so that it is fully compatible with your camera's file type. While every camera may have slightly different instructions for formatting a SD card, they all follow the same general procedure.
Insert your SD card into your camera. The SD port is usually in the battery compartment but its location can vary depending on the camera. To insert the card, gently push the card into the slot until you hear -- and feel -- it click into place.
Turn on your camera and select the "Menu" or "Preferences" option. Again, the wording can vary depending upon your camera.
Scroll down until you find the "Format" option. Select "Format."
Confirm that you wish to reformat your memory card. This process may take a few minutes, depending upon how many photos need to be erased from the card.
Items you will need
Digital camera
SD memory card
Tips
If these directions do not work for your camera, see your camera's user's guide for specific instructions.
Warnings
If you are reformatting your camera card after having used it, be aware that it will erase all data and files from the card. Back them up to your computer if you wish to save your data.
References
Writer Bio
A certified nutritionist who majored in health, fitness and nutrition, Traci Vandermark has been writing articles in her specialty fields since 1998. Her articles have appeared both online and in print for publications such as Simple Abundance, "Catskill Country Magazine," "Birds and Blooms," "Cappers" and "Country Discoveries."