By In this article, guest contributor Lyuthar Jacobs explains how to efficiently use and care for your memory cards.
Memory cards – an important item needed to take digital photographs, yet one that is often overlooked and neglected. They provide extra storage to treasure your memorable photos and allow you to capture the perfect shot.
Encountering issues with memory cards is a common situation many of us find ourselves in. However, there are a few things you can do to help prevent this from happening and to make use of them for a longer period. So to help you out, we have highlighted 9 essential tips for memory card care.
This article will guide you to use, care and tackle memory card problems in an efficient way. Besides, the bonus here is that you can use some of the tips and tricks that are given below to safeguard your memory card for PC.
Stop using at the time of the error
Make sure you stop using your card when you experience a breakdown, like a message showing an error in the memory card or if you accidentally delete images. This is because there is a high possibility that you didn’t lose everything and you might recover a part of or all lost images. Simply, stop using the card, as further use can overwrite your other images. You will be able to restore the lost memory through data recovery software or tools.
Use a computer to delete images
Try to use a computer when deleting any images. Doing so will protect the memory card and enable a longer life span. The trick is to add or remove data on the card as little times as possible. After you have been using the camera for a while, upload the images to your computer and then delete the unnecessary ones. This way you are deleting in a cycle rather than one at a time on the camera.
Remove cards safely when connected to your computer
At the time of removing your memory card when attached to your computer, make sure you follow the proper method to eject the card before removing it from your card reader. You can do this by selecting the option of eject from right-clicking the drive assigned. For Windows use the option named safely remove hardware to remove the card.
Using multiple cards is better
Sometimes your memory card can die mid-trip, so it is advisable to use multiple cards. Always pack an extra card handy so that you are able to use your camera without any stress. This is also helpful if you lose data on one card. In such a scenario, you will still have some images from the second card. The only setback here is that you will need to keep track of multiple cards and the cost of buying them.
Don’t completely fill your card
The majority of cameras will be able to tell you how many more photos you can take before the memory card is full. Keep track of this figure and use it as an indicator to stop shooting on the card before it is full. We recommend taking your photographs off the card whenever you are using the camera rather than doing so when the card has reached its full capacity, as this could cause an error.
Format your memory card in the camera
It is advisable to format your memory card in the camera you will be using to ensure that it is set up and pre-configured specifically for your camera. This tip’s importance increases when you are using a card that has already been used in a different camera. If you ignore the formatting, the problem can lead to reformatting your camera. Remember to take the images off the card before deleting all data as memory card recovery can be difficult, if not sometimes impossible.
Remove the card after switching off the camera
A while back, it was reported that removing a memory card from a camera can give off a voltage shock. Fast forward to today, manufacturers and technology have advanced immensely, so this shouldn’t happen on removal. However, it is better to take precautions. For that, you should always shut down your camera before removing the card.
Replace batteries before they drain completely
It is vital to take care of the power left in your camera’s batteries so that you can change or recharge them before they run down. This will save you from the trouble of your camera batteries running out in the middle of when you’re writing an image to your card – which can, in turn, lead to loss of data.
Common sense maintenance
Although this may be obvious, it’s important to keep your memory card clean and dry. We also suggest that you don’t expose it to extreme temperatures, bend the card, or drop it. When you are not using the card, it’s advisable to store it in a plastic case (the one that comes with the card) or a memory card case to provide an extra layer of protection.
Looking to buy a memory card for your camera? Head to our website now to view our full range of the best memory cards.
Author Bio: Lyuthar Jacobs is a Tech and Gaming enthusiast. He is a geek who loves to write about Technology, Gaming, and Money Saving. He loves to share his knowledge and experience with his friends and colleagues.
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