Formatting is the process of completely removing data from a hard disk or flash drive by overwriting the file system.
If a lot of software errors have accumulated on the memory card or some files have been damaged, formatting is recommended to make using the microSD card more convenient . After that, all user data will be permanently deleted. Next, we’ll explain how to format a memory card on Android and computer.
How to format microSD on your phone
Format a new microSD card before using it. This can be done immediately after installation on the phone. How to format a USB flash drive on Android:
Step 1 In the system settings, select “Memory”, and in the list that will open, touch the desired removable disk. In our case, it is an SD card , but you can have a different name for it.
Step 2 . The settings page will open. Click the “Show more” icon in the form of three points and select “Memory” .
Step 3 . Click “Format” to format the microSD card as a removable disk. Tap on the “Clear and format “ button to confirm the action.
Step 4 Click “Internal Memory” to format the microSD and use it as internal memory. Tap on the “Clear and format ” button .
If you format microSD as internal memory, the card will no longer be read by other smartphones or PCs (this is necessary to protect user data). Therefore, if you decide to install a USB flash drive in another device, you will need to reformat it.
How to format microSD on a computer
Thanks to the special SD adapter, the microSD card can be used not only in portable technology, but also on a computer or laptop as a regular flash drive. As a rule, it comes bundled with a microSD card, but if necessary you can purchase it separately. How to format using a microSD computer :
Step 1 Remove the microSD card from your smartphone and install it on your computer using a special SD adapter .
Note : Formatting the memory card via USB (if installed on a smartphone or tablet) is not possible.
Step 2 . Launch “My Computer“ via the “Start“ menu or via the desktop shortcut. In the list of removable media devices, right-click the SD card . In the context menu that appears, select “Format“ .
Step 3 . If necessary, select the file system ( FAT32 by default ), cluster size, and formatting method (for example, fast). Then click “Start“ .
Formatting time for removable media depends on their capacity and other parameters, but on average it does not exceed 10-20 minutes. If you plan to use microSD on your smartphone, it is recommended to leave the FAT32 file system .
