Is the basic programmingfor the scanner protected? In other words, if you format the card , will it brick the scanner? Just trying to make sure that I can't screw it up.
The SD card can't "brick the scanner" although without a good SD card with your programming, the radio is essentially a brick and won't do anything.
I strongly encourage you to
get at least a 2nd card.... then....
Use the EZ Scan software to prepare and program the newly acquired card.
Set aside the current/your primary card - that way you can always get back to where you started.
Insert the newly acquired/programmed card and "play".
Build your confidence in the process and that you can "get back" to a functioning radio.