DATA RECOVERY
Recovering AVCHD (MTS) Movie Files: A Comprehensive Guide
How to Recover AVCHD (MTS) Movies
Introduction
Losing important files, especially precious videos and memories, can be an overwhelming and stressful experience. Fortunately, in this era of advanced technology, there are effective methods to recover even the most complicated data, such as AVCHD (MTS) files.
What is the AVCHD (MTS) format and why is recovery a challenge?
AVCHD, or Advanced Video Codec High Definition, is a high-definition video recording format commonly used in modern digital cameras and camcorders. Files in this format are characterized by high image and sound quality, which unfortunately translates into their large size. The AVCHD (MTS) format is complex and requires appropriate software to read and edit. Video files are saved in the form of data streams, which contain both video and audio, which makes the recovery process even more difficult in the event of their loss or corruption.
AVCHD (MTS) files often contain high-quality footage, which can be of great importance to users, especially when these are videos of important family events, professional recordings or other precious moments. Due to its structure, the AVCHD (MTS) format is susceptible to various data loss problems, such as accidental deletion, physical damage to the media, software failures or formatting of the devices storing these files.
One of the main challenges of recovering AVCHD (MTS) files is their complex structure. These files contain video and audio streams that must be synchronized and read by the appropriate software. Standard data recovery programs may not be able to correctly identify and recover all elements of an AVCHD (MTS) file, which can result in incomplete or corrupted recordings.
The high video and audio quality of the AVCHD (MTS) format also means that these files take up a lot of space on storage media. This in turn increases the risk of problems related to data overwriting or file fragmentation, which further complicates the recovery process. Overwritten AVCHD (MTS) files can be difficult to recover because new data can partially replace the old recordings, making it difficult to fully restore them.
In addition, users often save AVCHD (MTS) files on memory cards, hard drives and other portable media, which can be susceptible to physical damage, hardware failure or accidental formatting. Even the slightest damage to the storage medium can lead to the loss of the entire video file or its parts. That is why it is so important to use the right methods and tools to recover AVCHD (MTS) files.
AVCHD (MTS) file recovery methods
Recovering lost AVCHD (MTS) video files may seem complicated, but with the right tools and knowledge, it is possible. Here are some effective methods that can help you recover your valuable data:
File recovery software
There are many file recovery programs available in the market that are designed to scan hard drives, memory cards, and other media for lost or corrupted files. These programs use advanced algorithms to identify and recover data, even if the file has been partially overwritten or corrupted. In the case of AVCHD (MTS) files, it is worth choosing software that supports this particular format and offers preview options for recovered video files.
StrongRecovery
One of the recommended data recovery programs, including AVCHD (MTS) files, is StrongRecovery. This comprehensive tool offers advanced data recovery features, allowing you to scan various media such as hard drives, memory cards, pen drives, and more. StrongRecovery stands out not only for its support for multiple formats, but also for the option to preview recovered video files before fully restoring them, which allows users to selectively recover the files they need.
Wondershare Recoverit
Another reliable program is Wondershare Recoverit. This tool lets you recover lost files with just a few simple clicks. Wondershare Recoverit supports file recovery from hard drives, USB drives, and other storage media. What's more, it offers specialized features for video file recovery, including AVCHD (MTS), making it an ideal choice for those looking for a simple yet effective tool.
iTop Data Recovery 4.0
iTop Data Recovery 4.0 is a free data recovery application that allows you to restore lost files with one click. This program helps you safely recover various types of files, including documents, videos, music, and more. With an easy-to-use interface, iTop Data Recovery 4.0 is a great choice for users who need a fast and effective AVCHD (MTS) file recovery tool.
Stellar
Stellar is an advanced software for recovering deleted photos, videos and audio files. Ideal for recovering data lost due to deletion, corruption or other unexpected events, Stellar offers a wide range of features that enable effective recovery of AVCHD (MTS) files from various storage media. With an intuitive user interface and advanced algorithms, Stellar is a valued tool in the field of data recovery.
iCare Data Recovery
One tool you might want to consider for memory card data recovery is iCare Data Recovery. This software offers a wide range of features that allow you to effectively restore lost files from various types of memory cards, including SD, microSD, CF, and more. With advanced algorithms, iCare Data Recovery can recover files even from corrupted or formatted cards.
Disk Drill
Disk Drill is another powerful data recovery tool that supports memory cards and many other storage media. The program offers an easy-to-use interface and advanced features that allow you to effectively recover AVCHD (MTS) files. Disk Drill is known for its high data recovery rate, making it one of the top choices for users looking for reliable data recovery software.
Recovering from Backups
Backing up is a key aspect of protecting your important data. If you regularly back up your video files, the recovery process can be much easier. If your AVCHD (MTS) files become lost or corrupted, you can simply restore them from a backup. Backups can be stored on external hard drives, in the cloud, or even on other media such as DVDs.
Recovering from memory cards
AVCHD (MTS) video files are often saved directly to the memory cards used in camcorders. If the files on your memory card become corrupted, formatted, or accidentally deleted, you can recover them using specialized memory card recovery software. This process can be a bit more involved.
Recovering deleted files from the recycle bin
If you accidentally deleted your AVCHD (MTS) video files, the first step in the recovery process should be checking the recycle bin or the deleted files folder. In many operating systems, deleted files are initially moved to the recycle bin, where they can be easily restored. If files have been deleted from the recycle bin, it is still possible to recover them using the methods described above. StrongRecovery can help you recover deleted files, even if they seem to have disappeared without a trace.
Video Loss Prevention Tips
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some strategies to help reduce the risk of losing important video files:
Backup: Regularly backing up your video files to external hard drives, the cloud, or other storage media is essential for protecting them. That way, even in the event of a drive failure or other issues, you'll have a safe copy of your valuable data. The cloud is a convenient and safe place to store backups. Services like Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive offer various plans that allow you to store large AVCHD (MTS) video files.
External Hard Drives: Storing backups on external hard drives provides an extra layer of protection. These drives can be stored in a safe place away from your computer, minimizing the risk of data loss if your computer becomes damaged.
Secure deletion: Before deleting video files, make sure that they are the right files and that you will not need them later. If in doubt, keep the file and mark it for later verification.
Preview files: Use the preview feature available in many file management programs to make sure that you are deleting the correct file.
Accidental deletion protection: Use write-protection features on memory cards and other storage media to prevent accidental deletion of important files. Many manufacturers offer hardware lock switches that can be used to protect data from being accidentally deleted or overwritten.
Recycle Bin: Many operating systems offer a recycle bin that temporarily stores deleted files. Check the recycle bin regularly to make sure that accidentally deleted files can be easily restored.
Damage Protection: Protect your devices, such as cameras and hard drives, from physical damage. Use cases, covers, and other accessories that keep your devices safe and prevent damage from drops or liquids.
Protective Cases: Invest in high-quality protective cases for your devices. They are designed to absorb impact and prevent damage caused by falls.
Water protection: Many modern cameras and hard drives are water resistant, but additional covers can provide additional protection.
Monitoring device health: Regularly check the health of your devices, such as cameras and hard drives. If you notice any warning signs, such as unusual sounds or problems saving files, back up your data immediately and consider replacing the device.
Hardware diagnostics: Use available diagnostic tools to regularly check the health of your hard drives and memory cards. These tools can detect problems before they lead to data loss.
Software updates: Regularly update your device software to get the latest features and security fixes.
Hardware security: Check to see if your memory cards have physical write-protect switches, and use them when you don't need to save new data.
Security software: Install software that allows you to write-protect selected storage media. This can help protect your files from being accidentally deleted or modified.
Preventing the loss of AVCHD (MTS) video files requires both conscious habits and the right tools and technologies. By following the tips above, you can greatly reduce the risk of losing your valuable data and enjoy peace of mind knowing that your files are safe.
Summary
Recovering AVCHD (MTS) movie files doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right knowledge, tools, and strategies, you can effectively recover lost data and keep your precious videos and memories safe. Remember, prevention and preparation are key, so always create backups and follow best practices for data management.
Step 1
Run StrongRecovery. In the disk selection window, find the card/disk on which the data was lost, double-click on this medium:
Step 2
After selecting the medium, a browser window will appear:
The title bar of the window shows information about the current progress of the media scanning. In the meantime, the program will collect more and more results. The progress of the entire work can be saved via Menu -> File -> Save session file. The session will also be saved at the very end (a window will appear offering this option).
If the medium has not been formatted or the allocation table has not been overwritten (or destroyed in some way), the files can be recovered traditionally - using the file system and directory structure...
Step 3
Right-click on the object (folder or file) and select "Recover". In the trial version, you can also double-click on the selected file and, after reading the terms of this version, recover the indicated file to the target location.
If traditional methods fail or do not allow you to recover data, then you should look for MTS files in the virtual trash "files to recover+". This basket can be expanded into grouped formats:
MTS/AVCHD files found in this way can often be fragments of a movie, but these fragments can be combined to obtain a whole movie as a result. It happens that part of the data (movie) is irreversibly deleted (overwritten by other information) and it remains to recover what can be recovered. In the program, you can recover MTS files one by one. You can also select several files in the full/licensed version of StrongRecovery and combine them. These options are not available in the trial version:
You can also scan by selecting the medium in a different mode. In the start window where you select the disk, right-click on disk -> settings -> damaged (do not scan MFT or FAT). If you think something is missing and the program has found too little data, you can use this tip.
FAQ
1. Can I recover AVCHD (MTS) files by myself?
Yes, with the help of appropriate data recovery software such as StrongRecovery, you can recover AVCHD (MTS) files by yourself.
2. What is the best software for recovering AVCHD (MTS) files?
Popular software includes Wondershare Recoverit, iTop Data Recovery 4.0, and Stellar. StrongRecovery also offers advanced recovery options.
3. What if I don't have a backup?
If you don't have a backup, use data recovery software that can scan and restore lost files without the need for a backup.
4. Can I recover files from a damaged memory card?
Yes, specialized memory card recovery software can help you recover AVCHD (MTS) files from damaged or formatted memory cards.
5. How can I prevent file loss in the future?
Make regular backups, securely delete files, protect devices from physical damage, and monitor the health of your devices.