Product Troubleshooting & Help

This page covers the most common installation and recording issues for microSD memory cards. In most cases, formatting the card in the device fixes the problem.

Common Issues When Installing Memory Cards (All Devices)

• Always format the memory card in the device before first use. This resolves the majority of detection and recording issues.
• If the device has internal storage, ensure the SD card is selected as the default storage location (where supported).
• If the card was previously used in another device (camera/phone/PC), reformatting is often required.
• Amazon Fire tablets must be formatted from the Admin or Parent profile (not the child profile).
• Avoid removing the memory card while the device is powered on unless the device explicitly supports it.

Tablet PCs

Installing a Memory Card

• Power off the tablet before inserting the memory card.
• Locate the microSD card slot (do not confuse with the SIM slot).
• Insert the card with the metal contacts facing down.
• Power on and format the card in Storage Settings if prompted.

Troubleshooting

• Card Not Detected: Remove and reinsert carefully, then restart the device.
• Storage Not Increasing: In Storage Settings, set the SD card as the default storage (if supported).
• Slow Performance: Large file transfers can take time. Device speed and file size also affect transfer time.
• Error Messages: Try a full format in the device. If needed, format via a PC card reader and then format again in the device.

Smartphones

Installing a Memory Card

• Power off the phone.
• Locate the correct tray (often combined SIM/microSD) and insert the card with contacts facing down.
• Reinsert the tray fully and power on the device.
• Format the card if prompted.

Troubleshooting

• Not Detected: Reinsert, restart, then format via Storage Settings (formatting deletes data).
• Storage Still Shows Full: Set SD card as the default storage location (if supported).
• After Software Updates: System updates can affect compatibility. Try formatting and check for further updates.

Action Cameras (e.g. GoPro-style)

Installing a Memory Card

• Power off the camera.
• Insert the microSD card until it clicks into place.
• Power on and format the card in the camera menu (recommended even if the card is new).

Troubleshooting

• Recording Stops / Errors: Use a suitable high-speed card for your recording mode (especially 4K).
• Corrupted Files: Always power off before removing the card. Reformat if corruption occurs.
• Camera Freezing: Try a full format (not quick format) and restart the camera.

Dash Cameras

Installing a Memory Card

• Power off the dash cam.
• Insert the card fully until it clicks (if applicable).
• Power on and format in the dash cam settings (recommended).

Troubleshooting

• Recording Stopped: Loop recording may be disabled, or the card may be full. Enable loop recording or reformat to clear old footage.
• Formatting Issues: 32GB cards are often FAT32. 64GB+ cards are often exFAT (device dependent).
• Frequent Errors: Dash cams write continuously. Periodic reformatting (every few weeks) can help maintain stability.

Security Cameras (General)

Installing a Memory Card

• Power off the camera before inserting the card (if possible).
• Insert the card fully until it clicks into place.
• Power on and format the card using the camera app or camera menu.

Troubleshooting

• Not Detected: Reinsert the card and format it in the camera/app.
• Recording Issues: Ensure local storage recording is enabled in the app settings.
• Poor Playback / Gaps: Check camera settings, Wi-Fi signal, and ensure the card is formatted in the device.

Home Security Cameras (Tapo Cameras)

Installing a Memory Card

• Power off the camera before inserting the card (where possible).
• Insert the microSD card fully until it clicks into place.
• Power on the camera.
• Open the Tapo app and format the card when prompted (or via Storage/SD Card settings).

Troubleshooting (Tapo & Similar Cameras)

• Camera Doesn’t Detect Card: Remove and reinsert the card, then format it in the Tapo app (not on a PC).
• Recording Not Starting: Ensure local storage recording is enabled in the app settings.
• Playback Not Available: Some devices need a reboot after formatting before recordings appear.
• Card Previously Used Elsewhere: Reformat in the camera/app to avoid compatibility issues.
• App Shows SD Card Error: Power the camera off for 30 seconds, then power back on and reformat in-app.

General Tips for Best Performance

• Avoid using very old or unbranded card readers.
• For continuous recording devices (dash cams/security cams), periodic reformatting can help stability.
• Avoid repeatedly switching between PC formatting and device formatting where possible.
• If a card works in one device but not another, format it in the target device.

Still Need Help?

If you have followed the steps above and still need assistance (or believe your product may be faulty), please email us and we will be happy to help.