Fix ADATA SD Card RAW Format and Recover Your Data
If your Adata SD card is showing RAW format, it likely means the file system is corrupted or unreadable. Fortunately, this doesn't mean your files are lost forever. With the right recovery software, including iCare Recovery Free, you can restore your data and fix the SD card without formatting. This guide explains how.
To make it more clear, a RAW ADATA SD card means the operating system cannot recognize the file system on the card. This often happens due to corruption (logical or physical) or improper handling, such as sudden removal during data transfer or physical damage. While the data is often still present, it's inaccessible until the card is fixed or data recovery software is used.
Logically damaged SD cards can often be repaired and restored, while physically damaged RAW SD cards may result in permanent data loss and are often unrepairable, unformattable, or beyond recovery.
Note: Any attempt to fix the ADATA SD card before performing data recovery may result in data corruption or permanent data loss. Please recover your data first before attempting to repair the damaged RAW ADATA SD card. If there is no important data on the card, you can proceed directly to Part 3 to fix the RAW ADATA SD card.
Also read: SD turned RAW fixes
Why Does My Adata SD Card Become RAW?
Several factors can cause an Adata SD card to turn RAW:
- Improper ejection from camera, phone, or card reader
- Virus or malware affecting the file system
- Power failure during data transfer
- Physical damage or bad sectors
- Unsupported file format in the OS
How to Recover Data from RAW Adata SD Card Using iCare Recovery Free
iCare Recovery Free is a user-friendly and powerful data recovery tool that works well with RAW SD cards. Here’s how to use it:
Step 1: Download and Install iCare Recovery Free
Download
and install it on your Windows PC (avoid installing it on the RAW SD card).
Step 2: Connect Your Adata SD Card
Insert the SD card into a card reader and connect it to your computer. iCare Recovery should detect it even if it appears as RAW or unreadable.
Step 3: Run a Deep Scan
Select the RAW SD card and choose the Deep Scan Recovery option. Let the software scan the card thoroughly to locate lost files.
Step 4: Preview and Recover Files
Once the scan is complete, preview the files. Select the ones you want and click Recover to save them to a safe location on your computer.
Alternative Recovery Tools for Adata RAW SD Card
If iCare doesn’t meet your needs, you can also try these tools:
- Recuva – A lightweight, free recovery tool from Piriform
- PhotoRec – Open-source software ideal for recovering media files from RAW drives
Also read: ADATA sd card recovery or sd card data recovery software
Fix the Adata SD Card RAW Format After Recovery
Once your data is safely recovered, you can format the RAW SD card to restore normal functionality:
- Open Disk Management (Windows + X > Disk Management)
- Right-click the RAW Adata SD card and select Format
- Choose FAT32 or exFAT as the file system
- Click OK to format the card
How to Fix a RAW ADATA SD Card
Data Recovery Software: Tools like Disk Drill or iCare Recovery Free can scan the RAW SD card and attempt to recover lost or damaged files.
Formatting (with caution): If data recovery fails, formatting the card can sometimes restore its functionality. However, this will erase all data on the card, so it's crucial to try recovery first. You can format the card to FAT32 or exFAT.
CHKDSK Command (Windows): The CHKDSK command in Windows can sometimes repair errors on the card.
Assigning a New Drive Letter: In some cases, assigning a new drive letter to the SD card in Disk Management can resolve the issue.
Reinstalling SD Card Drivers (Windows): Outdated or corrupted drivers can sometimes cause recognition problems.
Contact a Data Recovery Center: If all else fails, a professional data recovery center may be able to retrieve your data.
Preventing RAW SD Cards
- Always safely eject the SD card before removing it from your computer or device, according to data recovery articles.
- Avoid extreme temperatures and physical damage to your SD card.
- Use a reliable card reader and avoid using damaged cables or USB ports.
- Consider using a reputable brand like ADATA for your SD cards, according to an ADATA news release.
- Keep your computer's operating system and drivers up to date.
- Use an anti-virus or anti-malware program to protect your card from infections.
Conclusion
Don’t give up when your Adata SD card becomes RAW. Using tools like iCare Recovery Free, you can retrieve important files and fix the corrupted SD card. Always back up your memory cards to avoid data loss and keep your digital life safe.
Also read: Free memory card recovery software
Last updated on March 26, 2025
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