Understanding the Error Message
The error message “This device doesn’t support this SD card” indicates that your Android phone or tablet is unable to read or access the SD card that is inserted. This typically occurs because the SD card is incompatible, damaged, or corrupted in some way.
More specifically, this error can happen when:
- The SD card is formatted with an incompatible file system like NTFS or exFAT that Android can’t recognize.
- The SD card is above the maximum storage capacity supported by your Android device.
- There is physical damage to the SD card’s pins or surface.
- The SD card has become corrupted from improper ejection or other issues.
So in summary, this error suggests your Android device is unable to communicate properly with the inserted SD card due to compatibility or integrity issues. Trying the troubleshooting steps below can help resolve the problem.
Checking SD Card Compatibility
When troubleshooting the error message about an unsupported SD card, the first step is to check the SD card’s compatibility with your device. There are several SD card types and standards to be aware of:
SD (Secure Digital) – The original SD card standard with capacities up to 2GB. Older devices may only be compatible with standard SD cards.1
SDHC (Secure Digital High Capacity) – Introduced capacities between 4GB to 32GB. Many modern devices support SDHC.2
SDXC (Secure Digital Extended Capacity) – Allows capacities of 64GB to 2TB. Newer devices tend to be SDXC compatible.3
To check compatibility, consult your device’s user manual or specifications to determine which SD standards it works with. A device that only supports SD would not be able to read an SDHC or SDXC card. Trying a card based on the supported standards can resolve the unsupported card error.
Inspecting the SD Card
One of the first things to check when getting the “device does not support SD card” error is to physically inspect the SD card for any signs of damage. SD cards have delicate electronic components inside that can be damaged by excessive heat, moisture, or physical impacts.
Carefully look over the SD card, especially around the metal contacts, for any signs of damage like scratches, dents, bends, discoloration, or corrosion. Even a slight bit of physical damage to the card’s housing or contacts can disrupt the electrical connections and cause issues reading and writing data (source).
If the SD card has any visible damage, it’s very likely the cause of the error and the card will need to be replaced. While software solutions may temporarily fix software-related errors, physical damage to SD cards is irreparable.
Trying a Different SD Card
One of the easiest first troubleshooting steps is to try using a different SD card in your device. This will help determine if the issue is isolated to a problem with your original SD card, or if the problem lies with the device’s card reader or software.
To do this, insert a known working SD card from another device into your problematic device. If the new SD card is detected and functions normally, then the original card is likely faulty or corrupted. However, if the issue persists even with another SD card, then there is likely an underlying hardware or software issue with the device card reader that needs to be addressed.
It’s a good idea to try multiple SD cards if possible, even varying the memory size and brand, to isolate if the issue only occurs with a certain type of card. Testing with a variety of cards helps determine if the device has compatibility issues that are selective to certain cards. If all cards trigger the same error, it points to a systemic device issue rather than a faulty individual SD card.
If a new SD card works properly, you can attempt to reformat or test your original card in another device to confirm if it is damaged or corrupted. But if the issue persists across multiple cards, your next steps would be checking the physical SD card slot, updating drivers, or trying a USB reader instead.
Checking the SD Card Slot
One potential cause of the error message is a dirty or damaged SD card slot. Over time, dust, dirt, and debris can accumulate inside the slot, interfering with the ability to read cards properly. It’s a good idea to visually inspect the slot for any obstructions. Use a flashlight to peer inside. Be very careful not to scratch or damage the contacts inside the slot. You can use a can of compressed air to try and blow out any debris. For more thorough cleaning, a soft toothbrush or cotton swab dampened with isopropyl alcohol can help scrub away built-up gunk. Just be gentle and don’t force anything that’s stuck.
Check the slot for any damage like bent pins or scratched contacts. If there is visible damage, the slot may need professional repair. If the slot looks clean but cards still aren’t being detected, the issue could be with the hardware contacts or connectors. For laptops and devices still under warranty, take it into the manufacturer for servicing. For older gear, you may need to replace the slot or motherboard. As a temporary fix, try using an external USB card reader instead.
Updating Drivers
One potential cause of the error message “This device doesn’t support my SD card” is outdated or incorrect drivers. To resolve this, first make sure your operating system and firmware are up to date with the latest drivers.
On Windows, you can check for driver updates by going to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. Click ‘Check for updates’ to install the latest updates from Microsoft. You can also use third party tools like Driver Booster to update drivers automatically [1].
Updating to the latest firmware for the device can also resolve driver issues. Check the manufacturer’s website for firmware updates. Follow any instructions to update the firmware through a USB connection.
After updating Windows and firmware, try your SD card again. Updated drivers may resolve any compatibility issues with the SD card reader.
Reformatting the SD Card
Before reformatting the SD card, it’s important to back up any data you want to keep. Copy files like photos, videos, documents, etc. to another storage device like your computer’s hard drive or an external USB drive. Once the data is safely backed up, you can reformat the SD card.
When reformatting an SD card, you’ll want to use the appropriate format for the device you’re using it with. SD cards used in digital cameras should be formatted using the camera’s built-in formatting function (see camera manual for details). This will format the card to FAT32 which is optimal for the camera. If using the SD card in a smartphone, format it to exFAT for the best compatibility. On a Windows computer, use the built-in SD card formatter tool. On Mac, use the Disk Utility app. Reformatting will erase all data on the card and restore it to a clean state.
After formatting is complete, test the SD card by taking some test photos with your camera, transferring files to it from your computer, etc. If it is still not being recognized properly, the card itself may be corrupted or damaged and need to be replaced.
Sources:
https://www.lifewire.com/how-to-format-sd-card-camera-4587017
Testing the SD Card
One way to test your SD card is to use software that can perform read and write tests. This helps determine if the card can reliably store and access data. Some free tools include:
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Trying a USB Reader
If the SD card is not being detected by your device’s built-in card reader, try using an external USB card reader to see if the card is detected there. An external reader that connects via USB often uses generic drivers, so it is more likely to detect the SD card properly even if the built-in reader is having issues.
Connect the external USB card reader to your computer or device and insert the SD card. If the card shows up and is accessible, then the issue is with the built-in SD card slot rather than the card itself. The external reader may be able to access the files on the card and allow you to transfer them or back them up.
USB card readers are inexpensive and widely available. Popular options include single slot readers for around $10-15 and multi-slot readers with USB, SD, and microSD slots for $15-25. Using an external reader is an easy way to test if the SD card itself is functioning properly.
According to this source, trying an external USB card reader is one of the first troubleshooting steps to take if your built-in SD card reader is not detecting a card.
Getting a Replacement
If you have tried different SD cards and confirmed the issue is with your device, you may need to get a replacement device or SD card reader under warranty. Most smartphones come with a 1-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship (source). This means if your SD card slot stops working properly through no fault of your own within the first year, the manufacturer will likely replace the phone for free under warranty.
Extended warranty options are also available from most manufacturers, phone carriers, and third-party warranty providers that extend coverage beyond the initial 1-year period. For example, Verizon offers Total Mobile Protection plans starting at $12/month that include extended warranty coverage (source). Check your carrier or device manufacturer’s website for extended warranty options.
If your device is no longer under warranty, you may need to pay for a replacement device or motherboard repair. Using a USB card reader can allow you to continue accessing SD cards in the meantime.
