Memory Card Unlocker: How to Unlock SD Card Without Losing Data
Memory cards are commonly used to expand storage capacity in devices like Android phones, digital cameras, and handheld game consoles. However, sometimes you may encounter issues where the card becomes locked and you're unable to transfer files to it as usual.
A memory card is locked when it is protected with a password or PIN, and you cannot access or write data to it without entering the correct code. This can happen when you've set a lock on the card for security reasons, or when the card itself is faulty and won't allow access. In some cases, a memory card might also be locked due to a physical issue, such as a broken connection or a faulty chip.
1. The memory card's lock switch is on, and it's write-protected.
2. If you've forgotten the password to your memory card, you can try using a password recovery tool or contacting the manufacturer for assistance. Some memory cards, especially those used in cameras, may have a built-in password reset feature.
What's Memory Card Unlocker
A memory card unlocker is an app or program that claims to encrypt a storage drive and manage passwords, promising high security. However, it's more of a password manager than an actual unlocker, and often requires a significant payment to use.
Some online memory card unlocker software can unlock a password or remove read/write protection, but it's often expensive. If your SD card is locked due to write protection or a forgotten password, try clearing the lock instead. Avoid using unlicensed password remover software, as it can be illegal and risk damaging your data. Instead, follow the steps to clear the lock and avoid any potential issues.
How to Unlock Memory Card
To check the memory card switch, first ensure the lock switch is off, allowing you to delete, copy, transfer, or save files. The lock switch, usually a small plastic slider on the edge of the card, prevents any changes to the card when it's on. Start by checking the lock switch is in the correct position before attempting any file operations.
Method 1. Toggle the lock switch
The 32GB Sony SD card has a yellow switch on the left edge that can be slid up to the unlock position.
If the lock switch on your device is loose and moves easily between the lock and unlock position, it's probably corrupted and will need to be replaced with a new memory card.
Method 2. Remove write protection
A memory card gets locked due to write protection, which can be indicated by a warning on your phone or camera. However, the issue is often resolved by clearing the protection using the "attrib" command on a computer. To do this, insert the infected memory card into a card reader and connect it to the computer. Then, open an elevated command prompt and follow the instructions to clear the protection.
Step 1: Press Windows + X keys, Choose Command Prompt (Admin).
Step 2: Type these commands one by one and press Enter key after each:
- diskpart
- list disk
- select disk # (# is the number of the SD card)
- attributes disk clear readonly
Step 3: Type exit to close Command Prompt.
If you're not comfortable with command lines, there are graphical solutions to remove write protection from your hard drives, USB drives, and SD cards.
Qiling CleanGenius is a tool that helps fix issues on drives without needing to know command-line commands.
Here's an easy-Here’s a brief guide on how to use this tool to get your issues sorted:
Step 1: DOWNLOAD and install Qiling CleanGenius (free) on your computer.
Step 2: Run Qiling CleanGenius on your PC, select Optimization and choose the Write Protection mode.
Step 3: Select the device that is write-protected and click Disable to remove the protection.
Method 3. Force erase SD card without using a password
The most recommended way online to unlock a memory card is by installing ES File Explorer on your Android, although this app has been removed from the Play Store due to policy violations.
Forgetting the secret word, number, or pin of a memory card can be a frustrating experience, requiring significant effort to recover. In extreme cases, the last resort may be to send the card to the vendor, who might have a universal key to bypass the encryption and access the data.
How to Recover Erasing Data from Memory Card
Force unlocking the SD card can be risky, as it may erase data. However, if you've lost data, you can use a third-party SD card recovery freeware to try and regain it. This software can help recover deleted or lost files from the SD card.
Deep Data Recovery Free is a software designed to recover various types of files from disk storage devices, including those that have been formatted, partition lost, or infected by viruses. If your memory card is locked, trying to unlock it may be challenging, and without a regular backup, your data may be at risk. However, you can install Qiling file recovery software for free to scan and see how many files can be recovered, and only purchase the full version if you find what you need.
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