Nikon D40 memory card problem?

I have a memory card that usually holds over 400 photos. I recently uploaded a couple hundred pictures onto my computer and used the computer to delete all the photos off of my camera. Now my D40 is telling me that the memory card will only hold 9 photos. What happened and how can I fix it?

Have the camera format the memory card.

This is recommendable to do every time when you have uploaded the photos to your computer, as it also will reduce the chance of the card becoming corrupted.

It could be that the camera deleted the folder which holds the cards ID data, or the card might be corrupt (happens a lot).

the first thing to try is to format the card in the camera. Don't just delete all files - do a FORMAT. This will delete all photos, and them prepare the card for use, reset the file system (and numbering if the camera is set to start numbering again with each new card)

If the camera's file numbering system reaches its maximum number for a card it will no longer let any more photos be added - even if the card is actually empty; this is another possibility. Go into the menu and in the same section that has the Format command, you should see File Numbering. Set this to Auto Reset or Manual Reset or the Nikon equivalent (sorry - I'm a Canon man).

While you are there, check the Select Folder item if you have one. You may see that there's more than one folder active, and that the computer didn't get them all - and if that folder is full, or if the numbering has reached whatever Nikon specifies as maximum (check your manual), you will need to delete those folders through the camera menu system.

Finally, invest in a new card. Even if you get the current one working, never trust a dicey card, especially if it seems to have come good!

Reformat the card in the camera sounds like the file allocation table is corrupt (BTW the FAT format uses a File Allocation Table, F. A.T., thought you should know). Can happen when you use device B to delete images from device A.

If that doesn't work - the card may be damaged - it happens. You should have a backup card and a backup battery anyway.

2 Things

1 - Like everyone has been saying… Take all the pictures off the card and then use the camera format card option.

2 - If the card still doesn't work and its an expensive card call the manufacturer and they will allow you to return it for a replacement.

Have you reformatted the memory card to make it fresh for usage?