Mac OS X 10.2: SD/MMC Camera Only Available in "Disk Drive" Mode

Some cameras that use SD/MMC storage can be connected to your Macintosh in two different modes: as a camera, or as a disk drive. In some cases, after using the camera in "Disk Drive" mode, it will no longer be available if you switch to "Digital Camera" mode.
Symptom

In some cases, after using the camera in "Disk Drive" mode and switching it to "Digital Camera" mode, it may no longer be recognized by Image Capture or iPhoto. This may also occur if you have used the SD/MMC storage card in a FireWire or USB card reader connected to your Macintosh, and then return the card to the camera in "Digital Camera" mode.

Note: Even if iPhoto or Image Capture do not recognize the camera, the pictures on the storage card remain intact. No data has been lost.


Solution

Continue to use the camera in "Disk Drive" mode, and it will remain available in Image Capture and iPhoto.

To restore the card to its original state:
Important: Reformatting the card will erase all images stored on it.

Additional information

The camera uses different protocols to communicate with your Macintosh in the different modes, but the camera can be recognized by Image Capture and iPhoto in either mode. The only visible difference is the camera appears on the Desktop when it is connected in "Disk Drive" mode.
Published Date: Feb 19, 2012