Memory cards are based on data storage technology, usually Flash type, that allows you to record and read documents, images and videos.
In its operating mechanism, one transistor performs the function of activating memory cells and reading files, while another stores the information.
- The most commonly used types of memory cards in photography are SD (the most common on tablets.
- Cameras and smartphones).
- SDHC (for professional cameras.
- Up to 32GB) and SDXC (the most modern.
- With more than 32GB).
While it is the result of state-of-the-art data storage technology, certain precautions should be taken to prolong its use and ensure its perfect operation.
Here are some tips for the care of memory cards, recommended by the most diverse specialists in photography.
Reading the instruction manual of the equipment is also one of the precautions to be taken with the memory card, although it is constantly neglected due to the rush to take advantage of this technology as quickly as possible.
Its importance lies in the fact that it is only through this previous reading that the user can be sure that his memory card is compatible with the camera he uses, in addition to being informed of the different types of maps and the respective camera models for every.
Turning off the camera before inserting a memory card is undoubtedly an extremely important action for the preservation of this type of technology, because when performing the procedure with connected equipment, an electric shock can damage all the data and even the memory card itself.
According to several experts, this is because all data storage processes on maps are performed by electrical impulses, through which the data is archived in the form of magnetic particles.
This is another simple but very careless trick to take care of memory cards, it is a very sensitive technology, so the way your physical parts are handled can determine their durability.
It is recommended to avoid oxidation of memory cards, avoid manipulation as much as possible and touch them with your hands on their most sensitive parts; in addition to avoiding handling them in places with a lot of dust, dirt or water, such as: on beaches, rivers, during the rain and in other places where there is a risk to their integrity.
Another trick is to make a permanent backup of the photos stored on the camera memory card.
This trick is critical for important files, such as photos taken at events or work meeting videos, for example. Before downloading, a pre-save will ensure that images are saved in copies and therefore easily recovered if necessary.
Because it is a very touch-sensitive technology, be careful when switching one card to another. Wait for the device to complete processing or recording of data sent to the memory card.
During the card reading process, a red light usually stays on, indicating that the procedure is in progress. Wait for the light to turn off, then safely remove the memory card.
6. Format your memory card
Many photography professionals prefer to format their memory card when it is still inside the camera and in no way connected to the computer, in addition, they also avoid deleting files through the computer, preferring to use photographic equipment to do so.
The reason is that viruses can more easily damage files when they are formed on your PC; in addition to the possibility of discrepancies in the format of the results, due to the way in which both devices perform this function.
7. Identify memory cards
This type of technology requires a number of simple precautions, as its models are very physically similar to each other.
Therefore, in order not to get lost among several different cards, it is recommended, for example, to make a kind of differentiation with each other (those that are filled with those that are empty).
This can be done by identifying yourself with your name or a type of code, in the first case facilitates their return in case of loss and in the second allows to identify them quickly, but without risk of revealing their contents.
According to experts, this is one of the most obvious tips in the maintenance of memory cards, however, the lack of time in time makes many forget to protect them and begin to manipulate them in all conditions.
They must be protected from excess heat and humidity, rain and intense cold, since one of the determining factors in the loss of a memory card is its oxidation due to excessive exposure to moisture.
Memory cards have a technology very sensitive to magnetic fields, such as: TVs, stereos, magnets, speakers, etc.
Your exposure to this type of phenomenon can result in file loss, damage to your physical components; in addition to memory capacity loss.
Ideally, maps should be exposed as little as possible to different types of equipment where a magnetic phenomenon is generated.
Having multiple memory cards can be an interesting attitude to take care of with this type of technology, since it reduces its handling, exposure to the weather, prevents the loss of files, increases the time of use of each, etc.
In addition, having multiple memory cards with different storage spaces allows them to be used correctly depending on the type of photographic equipment and the image format: JPEG, RAW, SVG, GIF, among others.
11. Don’t force the card
Memory card technology generally uses one-way formatting, that is, they can only be inserted into a specific address and side on the computer.
Therefore, a precautionary tip with the memory card recommends its correct insertion into the input compartment of the machine, since, when forced, the result may be the failure of its physical components (even if it is a solid state storage technology); compromise the structure of the device.
12. Keep them correctly
Leading photography professionals generally recommend proper storage of memory cards to increase their lifespan and ensure retention of archived data.
Ideally, keep them in the right case for this type of item, usually available at the time of card purchase. Also pay attention to the need to store them according to your model, capacity, speed; In addition to the type of files it contains, this action will increase the life of the card while allowing its full and secure use.
The technology behind memory cards allows files, embedded in them, to be downloaded to almost all electronic platforms: tablets, smartphones, laptops, desktop computers.
Therefore, ideally, memory card files will be downloaded permanently (especially if they have little space) to be reused The danger of using full memory cards is that existing files can be corrupted by excess data of different sizes, formats, or sources.
14. Use recovery programs
Another tip for memory card maintenance is the use of programs for full file recovery, a technology widely used today by amateurs and even photography professionals.
Some programs such as: Recuva, Power Recovery, Zar, Data Recovery, Photorec, among others, recover deleted or deleted files by mistake, to do this simply remove the memory card from the camera and use one of these recovery programs.
15. Use a map adapter
Memory card adapters are fairly small parts, usually twice the size of the card, where they are inserted to be larger and can be handled more easily, as well as inserted into a laptop or tablet without risk of falling to the ground, for example.
These adapters transform, so to speak, a small memory card into a kind of SD card; Facilitate its use in a variety of electronic devices.
Another important tip for maintaining a memory card is given by many photography professionals, not only to protect files, but to increase card life.
The reader avoids having to connect the camera to the computer to read the files.
This procedure saves the camera energy; in addition to preventing them from running out of battery when transferring files, they will not be lost.
17. Accident procedure
Even if you take all precautions regarding storage, handling, insertion, etc. , you may not be able, for example, to prevent the memory card from accidentally contacting liquids.
In these cases, it is recommended to dry the memory site immediately before inserting it into the device, because because the memory of the card uses Flash technology, which consists only of solid materials and without removable parts, it facilitates its recovery.
This trick has more to do with its use on computers and laptops, from where they are removed by the ejection system.
It is recommended that you use the device’s warning system before ejecting it. This system allows you to notify in advance that you intend to remove the memory card.
In this way, programs that process or write files to the map will be suspended until the ejection is performed; prevent files from being corrupted or damaged.
Without a doubt, over time, some concerns about the maintenance of memory cards are overlooked, which end up on shelves, sofas or even in bed.
Because it is “micro” it is very easy to lose or damage it irreversibly, so ideally it will never be exposed in places with many objects around, where it can be confused with others and spread by mistake.
20. Test verification apps
Some memory card speed verification applications, such as Speed SD, allow the user to ensure they receive the right speed.
They are usually free programs, downloaded by the website itself, that work by installing a file on the map that stipulates enough time for a certain amount of data to be recorded.
This attitude, in addition to ensuring that you buy an original product, will also allow you to claim rights in case of bad service.
What we recommend is that the card be purchased only from renowned stores, which usually work with well-known brands and therefore have a name to consider.
In addition, one way to test the professionalism of the establishment is to consult the opinions of customers who have already purchased and who can demonstrate, from experience, the quality of the products sold there.
These are our memory card maintenance tips. However, if you want to share more, leave them as a comment, below; your particular opinion of this article.
See another eMania blog post on memory card maintenance. 05 Tips for taking care of your memory card?