Transferring Pictures from a Memory Card

Written by Barry Dysert (last updated March 9, 2020)

There are many computer systems—particularly those designed for home or small office use—that include built-in slots for memory cards. On systems that don't include such slots, you might have a memory card adapter that plugs into a USB port on your computer. Either way, Windows allows you to access whatever is on those memory cards, including any pictures placed there by your camera or other mobile device.

Transferring pictures from a memory card is just like transferring pictures from a USB drive. Plug the memory card into the appropriate slot on your computer. Windows should recognize the newly attached device and, depending on your AutoPlay settings, it may prompt you to see what action you want to take. If prompted, click the option that says, "Open Folder to View Files".

If you aren't prompted, Windows may automatically map a new drive letter to your card. Using Windows Explorer (Windows 7) or File Explorer (later versions of Windows), navigate to the newly mapped drive that represents your memory card.

It is also possible that Windows may automatically open a folder window showing what is on the memory card. This folder window is opened on the desktop, which means that if you weren't viewing the desktop before, you will be after the folder window is opened.

Navigate to the folder of the card that contains your pictures. Select the pictures that you want to copy to your computer and copy them as you would copy any other files from a computer-based folder.

When you're finished, click the icon in the systray that says, "Safely Remove Hardware and Eject Media". Click on the icon that represents your memory card. When Windows tells you it's safe to remove the card, remove it from its slot. Your pictures are now on your computer.

 This tip (11881) applies to Windows 7, 8, and 10.

Author Bio

Barry Dysert

Barry has been a computer professional for over 35 years, working in different positions such as technical team leader, project manager, and software developer. He is currently a software engineer with an emphasis on developing custom applications under Microsoft Windows. When not working with Windows or writing Tips, Barry is an amateur writer. His first non-fiction book is titled "A Chronological Commentary of Revelation." ...

MORE FROM BARRY

How To Enable Jump Lists

Jump lists are handy time savers. Some consider them a privacy issue, though. Whichever way you see it, this tip shows ...

Discover More

Understanding the Command Line For Loop

A niche command that sometimes comes in handy is the FOR loop. It has several forms and therefore can serve several ...

Discover More

PowerShell Input and Output

When dealing with a scripting language like PowerShell, one of the first things you need to learn is how to get data into ...

Discover More
More WindowsTips

Understanding Types of DVDs

There are several types of DVDs on the market. This tip explains the various types and how you might use them.

Discover More

Burning an Audio Disc

You can use your system to create audio CDs that you can listen to in other places, such as your car. You just have to ...

Discover More

Playing DVDs On Your System

Playing DVDs on your system could be as simple as merely inserting the disc into the drive. But at worst, it's only one ...

Discover More
Comments

If you would like to add an image to your comment (not an avatar, but an image to help in making the point of your comment), include the characters [{fig}] (all 7 characters, in the sequence shown) in your comment text. You’ll be prompted to upload your image when you submit the comment. Maximum image size is 6Mpixels. Images larger than 600px wide or 1000px tall will be reduced. Up to three images may be included in a comment. All images are subject to review. Commenting privileges may be curtailed if inappropriate images are posted.

What is 2 + 2?

There are currently no comments for this tip. (Be the first to leave your comment—just use the simple form above!)

Newest Tips
Links and Sharing
OUR COMPANY
OUR PRODUCTS
OUR SITES
 

Copyright © 2024 Sharon Parq Associates, Inc.