TF Card Not Detected - What Should I Do?¶
If your RecDual Dongle is not detecting the TF card (REC LED remains off), follow these troubleshooting steps.
Quick Checks¶
Is the card inserted correctly?
Remove and reinsert the card
Ensure proper orientation
Push until it clicks into place
Is the card formatted correctly?
Must be formatted as exFAT (not FAT32)
Format on a computer, not a smartphone
Is the card compatible?
Use Class 10 or higher
U3/V30 cards recommended
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting¶
Step 1: Reinsert the Card
Remove the TF card
Check for visible damage
Clean contacts if dusty
Reinsert firmly until it clicks
Check if REC LED turns green
Step 2: Test Card on Computer
Insert card into a card reader
Connect to computer
Check if computer recognizes the card
If not recognized, card may be damaged
Step 3: Format the Card
If computer recognizes the card:
Open File Explorer (Windows) or Disk Utility (Mac)
Select the TF card
Format as exFAT
Safely eject
Insert into RecDual Dongle
See How to Format TF Card for RecDual Dongle? for detailed instructions.
Step 4: Try a Different Card
If formatting doesn’t help:
Use a different TF card
Ensure new card is Class 10 or higher
Format as exFAT before use
Test in RecDual Dongle
Step 5: Check for Physical Issues
Inspect the TF card slot:
Look for debris or dust
Check for bent pins
Gently clean with compressed air if needed
Common Causes¶
Card Formatted by Smartphone
Smartphones create non-standard partitions
RecDual Dongle cannot read these formats
Always format on a computer
Wrong File System
FAT32 has limitations for video recording
NTFS may have compatibility issues on some devices
exFAT is recommended
Low Quality Cards
Generic or counterfeit cards may not work
Use reputable brands (SanDisk, Samsung, etc.)
Class 10 minimum, U3/V30 preferred
Damaged Card
Cards wear out over time
Physical damage can occur
Replace if showing errors
Prevention Tips¶
Always format on computer before first use
Use quality cards from known brands
Safely eject cards from computer before removing
Handle with care to avoid physical damage
Replace aging cards showing signs of wear
When to Contact Support¶
Contact support if:
Multiple known-good cards don’t work
Physical damage is visible in the card slot
REC LED never lights up under any circumstances