In general, there are two reasons why the data on memory flash devices (cards, USB-sticks, SSD) becomes inaccessible.
Logical damage prevents access to the data/pictures on the drive, but the drive is still physically recognized by the computer operating system. In this case some specialized types of recovery software can help. Sometimes free recovery tools like Zero Assumption Recovery can also solve this problem.
Physical damage causes the drive to be unrecognized by the computer's operating system, making it impossible to access the contents of the flash-memory chip. This type of damage happens in more than 80% of all known cases. These are most frequently caused by electrical problems that lead to physical damage. Flash devices consist of a memory chip and a controller. The controller writes and reads the data from the memory chip. In most cases, recovery is possible from a flash device with a damaged controller and mostly undamaged memory chips.

Formatting is required? The controller of the memory card is not in the position to inform the PC operating system about the characteristics of the memory card. Therefore, the PC assumes that the memory card is not formatted and requests formatting. One might think that the memory card problems would be solved by formatting, but unfortunately it does not work due to the damaged controller. Instead, the computer will communicate that formatting is not possible. Such an error is a clear indicator that no kind of software (including special formatting or rescue software!!) will be able to access the memory card.

Recoverfab Recovery Process: If the flash storage device is not recognized in the computer or it is impossible to access the data on it, there is only one way to get the data: unsolder the memory chip from the printed circuit board and directly access the raw data with a programmable chip reader. Below, you can see an illustration of our recovery process.

What distinguishes our offer from those of the competition?
• Recoverfab specializes in the data rescue of memory cards/USB-flash drives (not as a sideline or second business of non removable disk data rescue).
• We tell you in advance the price for the service (pricing).
• We support cost-containment (see order form).
• Recoverfab operates a no-data, no-fee policy.
• We provides FREE media analysis for cards/USB drives for which we are unable to recover data, with photo documentation of physically broken memory chips.
• Payment is required only after you have inspected and are satisfied with the recovered image samples/file list. If non of the recovered files are wanted or needed, then no charges will be made and the contract is void and no costs are incurred.
• You can keep track of the processing status (incoming, completion, shipment, etc.) on our protected customer service area.

When can files/pictures be recovered?
• inadvertent deletion
• card requests to be formatted (memory card controller damaged!)
• inadvertent formatting (only if the camera does not overwrite the addresses of the sectors e.g. LEICA and CAMERA. Not recoverable are: Canon Ixus/Powershot, Casio Exilim, Olympus Camedia/u830)
• abort through empty accumulator (memory card controller damaged!)
• storage medium is no longer recognized (memory card controller damaged!)
• error messages like: memory card error - unreadable card
• pictures were transferred to PC, but were damaged
• damage by external influences (liquids, heat, dirt)
• physical damage, without memory chip destruction (see pictures below)

Data rescue from physically damaged memory cards

The big black rectangle is the memory chip. Since there are no cracks on it, data rescue is possible.

Memory cards with damaged memory chips

The cracks in the housing have also damaged the memory chips. Unfortunately, nobody will be able to repair the chips or rescue the data.