SD card full
Recording stops — card full or filesystem issue. DJI gimbal, GoPro on FPV, HDZero/Walksnail, microSD V30+.
Contents
Overview
Recording stops — card full or filesystem issue.
DJI gimbal, GoPro on FPV, HDZero/Walksnail, microSD V30+.
Symptoms
Typical "SD card full" signs in flight, app or OSD:
- SD card full
- Cannot start recording
- Format required
- Test record on ground before flight.
Common causes
Before replacing parts, rule out software, mechanical and environmental causes:
- Forgot to clear before flight
- 4K large files
- Fake capacity card
Tools needed
Prepare before diagnostics — saves time in the field:
- microSD V30/U3
- Microfiber cloth
- Gimbal guard for transport
Step-by-step fix
Work safely: battery off when working on ESC/motors; props removed; after repair — VLOS test flight.
- Format in aircraft before important flight.
- Backup and delete old clips.
- Use genuine V30+ cards.
Additional diagnostics
Test record on ground before flight.
Format SD in aircraft, not PC (FAT32/exFAT).
Shutter 2× FPS — reduces jello.
When to contact service
If any of the following apply — do not fly and contact authorised service:
- Gimbal motor overload after calibration.
- Physical SD slot damage.
- Camera won't focus after impact — service.
Prevention
Prevention reduces failure risk and supports EASA Open / VLOS compliance:
- Format ritual pre-flight
Frequently asked questions
- Is it safe to fly with "SD card full"?
- No if the fault affects navigation, power, ESC or link. Fix on the ground first, then conduct a VLOS test flight in open area.
- How long does diagnosis take?
- Most “SD card full” cases — 15–45 min on the ground. Complex ones (firmware, hardware) may need 1–2 h and service.
- Must I register repair with the NAA?
- No mandatory repair registration, but a maintenance log is recommended for commercial operations.
Authority & sources
A2STS Editorial · Reviewed by: EASA UAS syllabus aligned