How to fix ERROR_NO_SUCH_DEVICE

Description

Undocumented error - the device cannot be found.

Causes

This error typically arises when an application attempts to access a device that is either unavailable, disconnected, or improperly configured. Understanding the root causes and implementing appropriate solutions can help in resolving this error efficiently.

Disconnected or Unavailable Device:

  • The device you’re trying to access is not connected to the system.
  • The device is turned off or in sleep mode.

Hardware Failures:

  • The device has malfunctioned due to hardware issues.
  • Faulty cables or connectors are preventing proper communication.

Changing Drive Letters for USB Devices:

  • The assigned drive letter might change upon reconnection if you're using a USB-connected drive.
  • Applications or scripts referencing the old drive letter will fail to locate the device.

Solutions

Verify Device Connection

  • Ensure that the device is properly connected to the computer.
  • Check power cables, USB connections, and other relevant connectors.

Check Device Status in Device Manager

  • Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
  • Look for the device in question and check for any warning icons.
  • If the device is not listed, select Action > Scan for hardware changes.

Update or Reinstall Device Drivers

  • Right-click on the device in Device Manager and select Update driver.
  • Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
  • If updating doesn’t work, consider uninstalling the driver and restarting your computer to reinstall it automatically.

Resolve Hardware Issues

  • Replace Faulty Cables: Swap out cables to rule out defective ones.
  • Test the Device on Another Computer: This can help determine if the device itself is faulty.
  • Check for Hardware Conflicts: Disable other devices that might be causing conflicts.

Use Unique Volume Names or GUIDs:

  • Instead of referencing the drive by its letter, use the unique volume name or Globally Unique Identifier (GUID) assigned to the drive.

Using TeraCopy 4 Pro:

  • Open the Target tab.
  • Click the ”+” button next to the path field.
  • Select the ‘Path to Volume GUID’ option from the menu.
  • TeraCopy will automatically convert the path to the drive’s unique ID.

How to Find the Unique Volume Name:

  • Open Windows PowerShell and type:
    • Get-WmiObject Win32_Volume | Select-Object DeviceID, DriveLetter
  • Note the Volume Name corresponding to your USB drive.

Accessing the Drive by Volume Name:

  • Use the path \?\Volume{GUID}\ to reference the drive in applications or scripts.