s it possible to recover deleted PEF files? How to perform PEF file recovery? Is there any way to prevent such troubles? You can get these answers below.
Have you ever deleted a PEF file, but realized later it is important? Don't worry, you're not alone. In this guide, we'll walk you through the step-by-step process of recovering deleted PEF files and ensure you can get your valuable files back.
PEF (Pentax Electronic Format) is a high-quality raw image captured by Pentax Digital Cameras with zero compression & minimal processing. So these files usually include a large amount of image data that a basic image editor cannot process.
Similar to other raw images, .pef files are valuable to photographers who can further develop the photos to give them another look. They can also be converted to other formats, such as .jpg, .jpeg, .png, .bmp, etc.
In fact, there are many possible reasons of PEF file deletion. The following are some of the common reasons:
When you delete a PEF file, it might not be removed completely from the device or computer. Instead, the occupied space will be marked as “free” for new data. This means your PEF files are recoverable before the old data is overwritten.
So please stop using your storage device or computer immediately after data loss. Don’t add new data to them. In addition, act promptly and start the data recovery process as soon as possible. The success rate gradually decreases with time.
In addition, the success rate varies in different data loss scenarios. For example, the quick format method will not overwrite old data but the full format will, making data recovery more challenging.
It’s always a good choice to check the Recycle Bin folder as all the deleted files on Windows PC will be moved there and remain for a period of time. If deleted files are not in Recycle Bin, they may be deleted permanently. Try the following two methods.
If you keep backing up your data consistently, you can restore deleted PEF files from previous backups. Starting from File History will be a good choice.
Step 1. Type file history in the search box and select Restore your files with file history.
Step 2. In the Control Panel, check if File History is on and select Restore personal files.
Step 3. Browse the most recent backup for deleted PEF files. Then, select it and click Restore.
If your PEF files are deleted permanently without backup, data recovery software can be a lifesaver. We recommend you use MyRecover to scan your storage device thoroughly in Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, 10, Windows 11, etc. and search all the deleted or lost PEF files for recovery.
In addition, the software does not require technical expertise and is friendly to novices, making the recovery process seamless. Please download this professional Windows data recovery software to have a try!
Step 1. Launch Windows data recovery software - MyRecover. Hover the mouse over the drive saved deleted files before, and click Scan.
Step 2. It will run Quick Scan and Deep Scan automatically to find out all the deleted PEF files. To locate them quickly, use the Filter feature or go to the original location in the left panel.
Step 3. Select your desired files and then click Recover x files to recover deleted PEF files. You will then be asked to select a location. Please select a new location instead of the original location to prevent potential data overwriting.
Notes:
If you fail to recover deleted PEF files using software or the situation is complex, it's wise to seek help from data recovery services, such as CBL, Ontrack, Geek Squad, etc. They usually employ experienced specialists and own advanced equipment to handle even the most challenging data recovery scenarios.
The most modern computer has a built-in image opener compatible with the .pef file extension. For special editing purposes, you may need a more powerful graphic editor. Below are some examples:
Among them, the last two options are also compatible with the Mac system. Try it if you are a Mac user.
To open PEF files, take Adobe Photoshop 2022 as an example. Launch it, click File > Open, and navigate to the location of your PEF files. Then, locate and double-click the file to open it.
To avoid future instances of accidental PEF file deletion, consider implementing these preventive measures:
1. Regularly back up your files: Always create a copy of your important files and set it to run automatically, such as daily, weekly, monthly, etc. Try Windows backup software like File History, Backup and Restore, AOMEI Backupper Standard, etc.
2. Use multiple storage services: Saving backup images on two different locations, such as an external drive, cloud storage, or other reliable storage devices ensures you always have a copy of your PEF files.
3. Double-check before deleting: Double-check before deleting any files to prevent accidental loss.
4. Use digital camera properly: Don’t use it at a low battery or full capacity; Safe eject your device. Don’t remove your card when it is in use.
5. Employ antivirus software: It will scan your device for viruses or malware and remove them to be sure your files will not be deleted mistakenly.
Losing PEF files can be stressful, but with the right approach, you can often recover deleted PEF files successfully. In contrast, the most effective method is using professional data recovery software like MyRecover. Remember to act promptly and start the data recovery process as soon as possible.
In addition, it’s also necessary to take some preventive measures, such as regular backups, high-qualify storage devices, etc to minimize the risk of data loss. And you are able to get them back quickly in a disaster.