SD card reader not recognized

[DemiK]

Hello, my laptop has a build-in SD-card reader which has worked perfectly in the year that I've had it, until I send my laptop to be repaired a month ago because the screen wasn't working well. Since I got it back, my laptop no longer recognizes the SD-card reader. I have send it to be repaired again to fix it and just got it back, but still nothing. Using an external SD-card reader does work, so the issue is not the card itself. I have already installed multiple drivers that should fix the problem, but still nothing. I have tried everything I could think of, someone please help. 

Seeing as it doesn't allow me to add my laptop type to the question for some reason, it's this one: Victus Gaming Laptop 15-fb0935nd

[Raj_05]

Hi @DemiK,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.

Since your SD card reader issue began after a repair and continues even after another repair attempt, it's possible that either a connection to the card reader was missed during the repair or there's a hardware issue. However, we can try a few more steps to troubleshoot it.

Check Device Manager

• Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
• Look for SD Host Controllers or Memory Technology Devices. If there’s a yellow warning symbol, the SD card reader may have a driver issue.
• If it’s not listed, it could mean the SD card reader is not being detected at all, potentially due to a hardware issue.

Reinstall or Update Drivers

• Uninstall drivers:
  • In Device Manager, right-click on the SD card reader (if listed) and choose Uninstall device.
  • Restart your laptop, and Windows should automatically reinstall the correct driver.
• Install drivers manually:
  • Visit the HP drivers page for your Victus Gaming Laptop 15.
  • Download and install the latest chipset and card reader drivers from HP’s website.

Check BIOS Settings

• Sometimes after a repair, BIOS settings may reset. Ensure that the SD card reader is enabled in the BIOS.
• To enter BIOS: Restart your laptop and press Esc or F10 during startup.
• Look for any settings related to the SD card reader under Advanced or Integrated Peripherals and ensure it's enabled.

Check for Windows Updates

• Make sure your system is fully updated by going to Settings > Windows Update and installing any pending updates.

Run Windows Hardware Troubleshooter

• Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
• Run the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter to let Windows identify potential problems with the SD card reader.

External SD Reader Works

• Since an external SD reader works, it suggests the issue lies specifically with your internal SD card reader.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping!

Alden4

HP Support 

[DemiK]

Hello Alden,

Thank you for your response. I tried your solutions but unfortunately, the issue hasn't been fixed. It appears as though my laptop no longer knows the SD-card reader exists as there are no mentions of it anywhere anymore. Not in Device Manager or in Bios. I am not entirely sure how to fix this but the store I bought it from recommended I stop by in person so they can take a look. 

Thank you for trying to help solve the issue.

Kind regards,

Demi

[Raj_05]

Hi @DemiK,

Thank you for your response, 

It sounds like you've already gone through several troubleshooting steps for your SD card reader issue, and it may indeed point to a hardware problem since it isn't detected in the BIOS or Device Manager. Given that the store recommended an in-person visit, it seems like a deeper hardware inspection may be needed.

Here are some additional things you might want to consider before taking it in.

• Check for a Firmware Update: Some laptops have firmware updates that can improve hardware detection. You can check HP's support page for your Victus Gaming Laptop 15 model for any firmware or BIOS updates.
• Inspect for Physical Damage: If you're comfortable, you could visually inspect the SD card slot for any damage or loose connections, especially if the issue occurred after a repair.
• Try a Full System Reset: If you haven't already, you could back up your data and attempt a full factory reset. This could rule out any software issues and give a fresh environment for testing. 

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping!

Alden4

HP Support