Memory data card recovery is a little bit different from normal or conventional data recovery services because in this case there is no moving part that can cause a mechanical failure. In most cases there are software issues with the unit that you can solve for yourself if you’re feeling adventurous, but I’d suggest you not do that at home.

1. A memory card is a memory chip with controller circuit built in, so there is nothing you can do with anything inside. Don’t take memory cards apart or try to fix them physically, you’ll probably mess it up.

2. There are pieces of software to recover data from a deleted memory card but I would not do that if I were you. Data recovery experts see everything you’ve done with the card and more. They can tell if you’ve been trying to do something to recover data and raise the fee or deny data recovery altogether. Neither is a pleasant experience after you’ve paid some serious sums of money on data recovery software so I’d recommend just taking your dead card straight to the professional.

3. Internet is mighty, Internet is powerful. It’s virtually free and you should take advantage of the fact that everyone wants you to be their customer. Choose wisely and even if you’re going back to the first company you’ve contacted, you still gave yourself the freedom of choice.

4. Ask for an estimation for the device before you ask for examination. Examination of the memory card will cost you a few dozen dollars and though you’ll most often get an exact quote after doing so, you can’t really take it to another company later. You probably want to contact several companies describing the problem you’ve been having with your memory card and ask for a free fee estimation based on it.

5. Choose a company that will guarantee its data recovery services. Remember, competition is fierce in this league and they will most probably do everything to take your case. You know lawyers that claim No win no fee policy? It works in the data recovery industry as well.

6. Always back up your data and though I’m aware of the fact that you’ve most probably lost something of value, let that be your fee to better understanding on how data security works and act accordingly in the future. Use at least 2-3 types of media to store everything important, for example a memory card is probably not the best place to store all your photos. With DVD writers costing only $20 and discs going for cents, you should make at least one backup DVD every week. You’ll thank yourself you did when your primary media throws its legs up.

Data recovery is a most complicated process, which needs fully trained professionals to yield satisfactory results. You can try to get your data back at home but I wouldn’t venture that far and contact someone making a living off this. They probably know better.