Cameras and other digital electronics use small memory cards to store data. These small storage devices can transfer the data to another device or your computer. Memory cards have a locking feature that prevents anyone from editing the card. While locked, you will not be able to save, delete or edit any file. If the card is working properly, you can turn off the locking mechanism located on the card. Sometimes the memory card becomes corrupted, and your data is rendered unreadable and refuses to unlock. In these cases, you will need to format the memory card.
Instructions
1. Look on the side of the memory card for a sliding switch. Use your thumb to slide the latch to the unlocked or open state.
2. Slide the switch from lock to unlock, then back to lock. Repeat this three times. On the third time to slide it back to the locked position, leave it there 30 seconds.
3. Slide the switch to the unlock or open position. If files are still locked, reformat the card.
4. Insert the memory card into your computer using a memory card reader or a USB card reader.
5. Click "Start" and then right-click on "Computer" and select "Manage."
6. Select "Storage" and then "Disk Management" in the left pane.
7. Right-click on the memory card listed in the center pane and click "Format." Click "Yes" if a prompt appears warning you that the disk is an active partition.
8. Leave the options in the formatting window at their set default and click "OK" to format the card.
Tags: memory card, card reader, Slide switch, your computer