How to Recover Lost Data Files From Digital Cards

Digital memory cards, such as USB flash drives and SD memory cards, are used to store content ranging from computer files to photos. However, the files on the digital cards, just like other files on your computer, are susceptible to become lost or damaged. In order to access the files again, you need to recover the files and return the files to their native settings.

Step 1

Connect the digital memory card to your computer. If you have a flash, drive simply insert the flash drive into a USB port. If using an SD memory card, you need to use an SD card reader and connect the card reader to a USB port.

Step 2

Launch the file recovery software on your computer. Many programs have this feature including Norton 360. However, if you do not have file recovery software installed, you can obtain a free version from CNET.com. Select "Downloads," "Windows" and finally type "File Recovery." A list of the most popular file recovery programs will load. Download and install one of the available programs.

Step 3

Select the digital memory card as the area you want to scan for recoverable files. Click "Start" and the file recovery software will scan the connected flash drive or SD memory card. Once complete, a list of all the files it can recover appears.

Step 4

Select the lost files you want to recover and click "Restore." The software will now recover your lost files and place them back onto the digital card.

References

• CNET: File Recovery Software

About the Author

Greyson Ferguson is a graduate of the Savannah College of Art and Design with a degree in film and television. He currently resides in Lansing, Michigan where he works on independent film projects and writes for numerous publications. Ferguson primarily focuses on computer and electronic articles. Greyson produces TheDailyUpbeat.com, focusing on only upbeat news stories with daily updates.

Photo Credits

• usb flash drive image by Bosko Martinovic from Fotolia.com