SD card errors
Last modified: Wednesday March 11, 2026.
If there is an issue with the SD card in your Alta camera, an error message will appear. To install a new card, see Replace your SD card. To format your SD card, see Format your SD card.
You cannot alter the storage duration of your camera by using an SD card with a larger capacity.
Data on the SD card is encrypted and can only be read by the camera on which it was originally recorded.
| Error message | Details | Action |
|---|---|---|
| SD card not detected. | The camera cannot detect its SD card, meaning no local video storage is available. | Check the camera to ensure that an SD card is physically present and correctly inserted. |
| SD card needs formatting. | An SD card has been detected in the camera, but no local video storage is configured because the card is currently unformatted or unsupported. | Format your SD card. |
| SD card not found. | The camera's physical storage does not match its expected configuration. This typically occurs if the camera's original SD card has been removed or swapped, as the recorded data is encrypted and can only be read by the specific camera on which it was originally recorded. | Check the camera to ensure the correct SD card is properly inserted. If you have intentionally replaced the SD card, configure the new storage by formatting the SD card. |
| SD card unsupported. | Additional unused storage devices or an unsupported model are detected. | Replace the unsupported SD card with a compatible model. |
| Incorrect SD card size. Retention might be reduced. | The SD card has a smaller storage capacity than is required to meet the camera's stated video retention period. | Replace the current SD card with one of the correct capacity and then format the new card. |
| Unsupported SD card inserted. | The camera has detected an SD card, but it is either an unsupported brand or model, or there are additional unused storage devices present. | Replace the current SD card with a supported, compatible model and then format the card. |
| Unexpected SD card inserted in camera. | The camera has detected an unexpected storage device, such as an unformatted or unsupported SD card. | Remove the unexpected SD card from the camera. If you intentionally inserted the storage device and need to prepare it for use, format the SD card. |
| SD card issue detected. Reboot the camera or contact technical support if the problem persists. | The camera has detected a general issue with its SD card. | Reboot the camera. If the problem persists after restarting, contact Avigilon Alta technical support for further assistance. |
