ERROR_CANTFETCHBACKWARDS - 770 (0x302)
The data provider cannot fetch backwards through a result set.
Updated: Feb 21, 2026
Technical Meaning
The ERROR_CANTFETCHBACKWARDS error code indicates that a data provider is unable to traverse backward through a result set. This typically occurs when an application attempts to move the cursor or pointer in a dataset in reverse, but the underlying data source does not support this operation.
Error Details
This error is specific to operations involving data providers and result sets. It can arise from various scenarios where the data provider's capabilities do not allow for backward traversal of records or rows within a dataset. Common contexts include database queries, file reading operations, or any other scenario where sequential access to data is required.
Usage Context
This error code is commonly encountered in applications that interact with databases, files, or any data source that supports result sets. It can be returned by functions such as SQLNextResult or similar APIs when the operation requested cannot be performed due to limitations of the data provider.
Developer Interpretation
When encountering this error, developers should understand that the underlying data source does not support backward traversal. This could mean that the database query is designed in a way that only allows forward movement through the result set or that the file reading operation is implemented without bidirectional support. Developers should ensure that their code handles such scenarios appropriately to avoid runtime errors.
Related Errors
ERROR_HANDLE_EOF(384): Indicates an end-of-file condition, which might be encountered when attempting to move backward in a dataset that has no previous records.ERROR_HANDLE_DISK_FULL(299): Although not directly related, this error can occur if the data provider is running out of resources or storage space, potentially affecting its ability to handle bidirectional operations.
FAQ
Q: What does ERROR_CANTFETCHBACKWARDS mean?
A: It indicates that a data provider cannot move backward through a result set. This typically means the underlying data source does not support reverse traversal.
Q: How can I handle this error in my application?
A: Ensure your code checks for bidirectional support before attempting to move backward through a dataset. Use appropriate error handling mechanisms to manage such scenarios gracefully.
Summary
The ERROR_CANTFETCHBACKWARDS error code is specific to operations involving data providers and result sets where backward traversal is not supported. Developers should be aware of this limitation when designing applications that interact with such data sources.