How to Use a Micro SD Card in a Cell Phone
By Cassandra Tribe
Micro SD memory cards are used primarily in cell phones. They are smaller than the Mini SDs commonly used in cameras, and much smaller than the SD cards used with computers. A Micro SD card can add up to 32 gigabytes of memory to your cell phone. That means more pictures, more video and more music and other programs at your fingertips. Its easy to use a Micro SD card in a cell phone since most phones that use them have automated the formatting process.
Step 1
Access the Micro SD card slot on your phone. It will be on the exterior of the phone (with a rubber or plastic cover with "Micro SD" printed on it) or under the battery. Remove the battery and you will see a small metal clip with an icon that looks like the shape of your card printed in the center.
Step 2
Insert your Micro SD card into your phone. Make sure the gold strips are facing down into the phone. If your Micro SD slot is under your battery, the strips will be towards the face of your phone. If you are inserting the card into a slot on the phone, the gold strips should be facing down towards the back.
Step 3
Turn your phone on (if it was off or if you had to remove the battery to insert the card). Wait for the phone to recognize the new Micro SD card. Some phones will automatically prompt you to format the card; others will not.
Step 4
Press "Menu" and then "Options" and select "Memory." The menu for your phone may differ slightly in the order of choices offered. Consult your manual to locate what sub menu "Memory" is located under if you cannot find it. If you do not have a manual, use the link in the resources below to download a copy of your phone's manual.
Step 5
Select "Card Memory" (or the equivalent) and "Format." You will then be prompted automatically with questions about naming the card, assigning it a password and whether or not to make it the default "Save" location for your phone.
Tips
- Micro SD cards use a password to lock or unlock the card, not a slide lever like on SD cards. Make sure you write your password down where you can easily find it.
Warnings
- Back up the information on your Micro SD card to your computer on a regular basis using a Micro SD card USB adapter. If you do not and the card becomes damaged or is lost, you will lose all of your information.
Writer Bio
Cassandra Tribe has worked in the construction field for over 17 years and has experience in a variety of mechanical, scientific, automotive and mathematical forms. She has been writing and editing for over 10 years. Her areas of interest include culture and society, automotive, computers, business, the Internet, science and structural engineering and implementation.