How to Install a Memory Card
Level of difficulty: Intermediate
In general, a memory card or sometimes referred to as a flash memory module is a type of solid state electronic data storage hardware associated with a number of mobile computers, cellular phones, digital cameras, music players, video gaming consoles, and other similar electronic devices. The choice of this data storage device format is based on its high re-recording capability in a power-free, small form factor, and rugged environmental architecture. Essentially, there are five major types of memory cards in the computer market based on their popularity of usage. These are the SD (similar to MMC), CompactFlash, xD, Memory Stick, and SmartMedia which all have their own respective sub-categories mainly designed to cater to newer digital products. The Secure Digital (SD) and the MultiMediaCard (MMC) are considered as the more widely used and almost similar with the main difference in their physical structure wherein the SD memory card is equipped with a write protect switch like those found in floppy drives intended to deliver additional data security.
Materials Needed:- Memory card
- digital device with memory card slot
- memory card reader
- computer
Step 1
The first step to installing a memory card to a specific device is to check the type of memory card that it supports including the maximum capacity that it can read. Usually, older models of digital devices are limited to hosting lower capacity versions of memory cards. This can be done by checking on the device’s documentation, checking the actual storage bay, or accessing the device menu.
Step 2
Prior to inserting the memory card, try formatting it on a computer system. Majority of memory cards use the FAT file system. Insert the newly bought memory card into a card reader.
Step 3
This should be automatically detected by the Operating System and prompt a message that the device is unreadable and should be formatted. Click on the 'Format' option to bring up the Format window.
Step 4
Usually, the Operating System will display the necessary default configuration for the memory card. Simply click on the 'Start' button and wait for the formatting process to complete. Click on the 'Close' button after completion.
Step 5
Remove the memory card from the card reader device. Turn off the device where the memory card will be placed.
Step 6
Open the storage bay for the memory card. Check for the proper orientation of the memory card to prevent any physical damage. Slowly insert the memory card into its slot by following the guides if present.
Step 7
Close the storage bay and power on the digital device. Go to the System Menu of the device. Check if the memory card can be read by the device taking note if it detects the proper size of the storage device.
Step 8
Go to the 'Format' option and reformat the memory card directly from the digital device. Wait for the formatting process to complete.
Step 9
After completion of the formatting, attempt to store data into the memory card to make sure that it is functioning properly. Remember to never remove the memory card without powering off the digital device first.