How to formate SD card on body camera?

To format the SD card on your body camera, you’ll first need to unlock the camera and enable it to function as a USB Drive. This can typically be achieved using Cam Manager or similar management software. It’s important to note that most body cameras are compatible with the FAT32 file system, so it’s advisable to format the SD card to FAT32. Some camera models may also offer a built-in formatting option, allowing you to format the SD card directly from the device.

Steps to Format an SD Card to FAT32:

1. Back Up Data: Before starting the formatting process, ensure to back up any essential files since formatting will erase all data on the SD card.
2. Insert the SD Card: Place the SD card into your computer’s SD card slot or use an external card reader if necessary.
3. Access the SD Card: Open “File Explorer” on Windows or “Finder” on a Mac to locate the SD card, which is often labeled as “Removable Disk” or a similar designation.
4. Initiate Format Process: Right-click on the SD card and select “Format” from the dropdown menu. Mac users should click on the SD card and select “Erase” from the menu bar.
5. Select FAT32 File System: In the formatting options, ensure FAT32 is selected as the file system. This may involve accessing a dropdown menu or specific option.
6. Name the SD Card (Optional): Enter a new name for your SD card in the “Volume Label” section if desired.
7. Quick Format: Check the “Quick Format” box to expedite the formatting process.
8. Start Formatting: Click “Start” or “Format.” A warning will pop up, reminding you that proceeding will erase all data on the card. Confirm to proceed.
9. Completion: Wait until the formatting is complete, which might take a few moments. Once done, a message will confirm the successful format.
10. Ready to Use: The SD card is now formatted to FAT32 and ready for use.

Formatting Without FAT32 Option:

If the FAT32 option isn’t available on your computer when trying to format an SD card, you can use the Command Prompt in Windows 10 for this task:

1. Insert the SD Card: Place it into your computer’s card reader.
2. Open Command Prompt as Administrator: Search for “cmd” in the Start menu, right-click on “Command Prompt,” and select “Run as administrator.”
3. Enter Format Command: Type format <drive letter>: /FS:FAT32 into the Command Prompt, replacing <drive letter> with your SD card’s actual drive letter (e.g., E:, F:). Ensure you’ve got the correct drive letter to avoid formatting the wrong disk.
4. Confirm the Format: After executing the command, confirm by typing “Y” when prompted about data deletion.
5. Wait for Completion: The Command Prompt will format the SD card to FAT32. Once finished, you’ll see a success message.

Remember to safely eject the SD card before removing it from your computer to avoid data loss or corruption.