How to Fix a Broken Lock on SD Cards
Find the lock groove., Remove any remaining lock material., Get some cellophane tape., Remove a piece of tape., Affix the tape to the lock groove., Insert the card into your device or reader.
Step-by-Step Guide
-
Step 1: Find the lock groove.
Look for the spot where the lock switch used to be.
The groove is typically located on the left edge of the SD card when you are looking at it from the front. -
Step 2: Remove any remaining lock material.
If there is any plastic piece of the old lock switch still attached or dangling, use nail scissors to gently snip out the remaining piece. , You will need a thin, clear cellophane tape with a strong adhesive grip.
Scotch brand is the most common, but any brand will work as long as it is very adhesive.
Make sure that roll is not very wide. 1/2" is the standard. , Remove a small piece of tape from your roll.
Remove a 1/2" piece of tape from the roll, creating a 1/2" x 1/2" square of tape. , The tape should be wrapped around both the front and the back of the SD card, creating a level surface along the edge with the lock groove.
Make sure to firmly press the tape down so that there are no wrinkles or bubbles.
Ensure that none of the contacts on the back of the SD card are covered by the tape, or the card will not read.
Bumps in the tape or raised edges could cause the SD card to get stuck in the slot. , The SD card should now be fully unlocked.
If it is still locked, make sure that the tape has created a level surface on the lock edge. -
Step 3: Get some cellophane tape.
-
Step 4: Remove a piece of tape.
-
Step 5: Affix the tape to the lock groove.
-
Step 6: Insert the card into your device or reader.
Detailed Guide
Look for the spot where the lock switch used to be.
The groove is typically located on the left edge of the SD card when you are looking at it from the front.
If there is any plastic piece of the old lock switch still attached or dangling, use nail scissors to gently snip out the remaining piece. , You will need a thin, clear cellophane tape with a strong adhesive grip.
Scotch brand is the most common, but any brand will work as long as it is very adhesive.
Make sure that roll is not very wide. 1/2" is the standard. , Remove a small piece of tape from your roll.
Remove a 1/2" piece of tape from the roll, creating a 1/2" x 1/2" square of tape. , The tape should be wrapped around both the front and the back of the SD card, creating a level surface along the edge with the lock groove.
Make sure to firmly press the tape down so that there are no wrinkles or bubbles.
Ensure that none of the contacts on the back of the SD card are covered by the tape, or the card will not read.
Bumps in the tape or raised edges could cause the SD card to get stuck in the slot. , The SD card should now be fully unlocked.
If it is still locked, make sure that the tape has created a level surface on the lock edge.
About the Author
James Ferguson
Writer and educator with a focus on practical cooking knowledge.
Rate This Guide
How helpful was this guide? Click to rate: