All SPYPOINT devices need a memory card to function, either and SD or Micro SD, depending on the device. We always recommend using a premium quality class 10 SD or MicroSD card. Always long-format your SD or MicroSD card, even if it is new. Formatting also helps prevent file incompatibility issues caused by having used the same card in another device.
FLEX Series
|
Recommended MicroSD card |
Avoid using the following MicroSD card |
|
- 2 to 512 GB - Class 10, - SDHC or SDXC, - Premium brand, - Formatted with the "FORMAT" button on the FLEX. |
- Less than 2GB or more than 512 GB, - Class speeds 2, 4 or 6, - Rated SDUC, - Poor quality or off-brands, - Formatted with a computer. |
LM2, LINK-MICRO Series, CELL-LINK, LINK Series, FORCE Series
|
Recommended SD and MicroSD cards |
Avoid using the following SD or MicroSD cards |
| - 2 to 32 GB - Class 10,- SDHC,- Premium brand,- Long formatting (with FAT/FAT32 setting),- Using the correct size card for your camera (SD or MicroSD card. | - Less than 2GB or more than 32GB,- Class speeds 2, 4 or 6,- Rated SDXC or SDUC,- Poor quality or off-brands,- Short formatting (not with FAT/FAT32 setting),- Using a MicroSD card in an adaptor in a camera that requires a full-size SD card. |
How to insert the SD or MicroSD card?
When inserting the memory card into the camera:
- Check the direction to insert the memory card correctly. There is an icon near the opening where you should insert the card that will tell you the correct direction.
- Gently insert the memory card into the opening and push lightly with your finger.
- You will hear a “click” indicating that it is inserted properly.
When it is time to remove the memory card:
- Press lightly on the memory card with your finger. You will hear a “click”.
- Slowly release the pressure. The card should come out halfway by itself.
- Remove the card with your fingers.
Why can’t I use a MicroSD card in an SD adaptor?
If your camera requires a full-size SD card, using a MicroSD card in an SD adaptor will slow the performance of your camera and potentially cause loss of data. This could prevent some of your photos from saving or even transmitting to your app.
The SD adaptor is only meant for inserting a MicroSD card into the SD card slot on your computer, when formatting or updating your firmware.
What is an SD or MicroSD card corruption?
Hidden read only files can corrupt your SD or MicroSD card. Corruptions make your memory card either slow or unusable. This can slow your camera down or even prevent your photos or videos from being saved or sent. The corruption can either be temporary or permanent, which is why we recommend always having an extra card on-hand.
There are many reasons that cause an SD or MicroSD card to become corrupted. Poor-quality cards and off-brands are prone to corruption. If you are using a premium quality card, the corruption can be due to extended wear and tear, removing the card while files are transferring and improper ejection to name a few.
How to test if your SD or MicroSD card is temporarily or permanently corrupted?
A temporary corruption can be fixed with a long format (FAT/ FAT32 setting). If the card does not work even after long format, it means that it is permanently corrupted. In this case, you will need to replace the card. Watch this video to learn how to format your SD or MicroSD card.
For FLEX Series, press the "FORMAT" button on the camera to reset the MicroSD card. Once the formatting is over, reboot the camera, pay attention to the LED patterns, and if there is no MicroSD card issue, press the "TEST" button. This will trigger the camera to take a photo and to send it to your SPYPOINT app.
If the LED pattern indicates a memory card issue, use a computer to long-format the card (FAT/FAT32 setting). Once done, reinsert the card in the camera, turn the camera on and press the "FORMAT" button. If there is still an issue, the card is permanently corrupted and needs to be replaced.
Can it be the firmware installed on the SD or MicroSD card that is corrupted?
Yes, it is possible. First start by re-formatting the SD or MicroSD card with FAT/FAT32 setting and then restart the camera to check for photo transmissions. If the issue persists, try re-installing the firmware and restart the device again. Be sure to pay attention to the camera's LED patterns to avoid turning it off during an update.
Lookout for fake SD and MicroSD cards!
The internet is full of counterfeit SD and MicroSD cards. It is very important that you purchase them from a reputable source. To understand if your card is a fake one, compare it to a photo on the brand's official website to see if you can spot any discrepancies. The colors, the writing on the card or other visual cues might be different.
Why is my SD card write protected?
Write protection is a data protection feature that prevents you from altering the stored data on the SD card. This feature will neither let you delete any existing data nor add any new form of data to the card.
If you are getting a message that your SD card is write-protected, it usually means the lock switch on the side of the card has accidentally been moved to the lock position. The same process can happen with MicroSD cards while they are inserted in the SD card adaptor. If the switch is moved while they are in the adaptor, it will lock the MicroSD card.
To fix this issue, make sure the lock switch is slid up (unlock position). The location and configuration may vary depending on the card. If you notice that the lock switch is loose and moves very easily, then it likely that the switch is sliding to the locked position whenever the card is placed inside the camera. In this case, you will need to replace the card.
Compatibility with our cameras
MicroSD card: FLEX Series, LM2, LINK-MICRO-LTE, LINK-MICRO-S-LTE, LINK-MICRO-4G, CELL-LINK
SD card: LINK-EVO, LINK-S, LINK-DARK, LINK-S-DARK, FORCE-DARK, FORCE-PRO, FORCE 20, FORCE-PRO-S
For the full list of cameras and their compatibility, please refer to the compatibility article.
Updated April 23, 2025
