Knowledge

ERROR_INVALID_MINALLOCSIZE - 195 (0xC3)

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Updated: Feb 21, 2026

Technical Background

The ERROR_INVALID_MINALLOCSIZE error code, represented by the numeric value 195 (hexadecimal: 0xC3), indicates that a memory allocation operation has failed due to an invalid minimum allocation size. This error is typically encountered in scenarios where the system attempts to allocate memory but encounters a parameter that does not meet the required constraints.

Error Details

The ERROR_INVALID_MINALLOCSIZE error suggests that one of the parameters passed to a memory allocation function, such as VirtualAlloc, was set to an invalid minimum size. This can occur when the specified minimum allocation size is less than the system's minimum allowable value or does not align with the expected constraints.

Common Causes

  • Invalid Parameter Values: The parameter passed for the minimum allocation size is out of the valid range supported by the operating system.
  • Incorrect Object Type: The operation being performed may require a specific type of memory allocation, and an incorrect object type was specified.

Real-World Context

This error can be encountered in various scenarios where memory allocation operations are performed. For example, when a driver or application attempts to allocate memory for a buffer or structure, the minimum size required by the system may not be met due to misconfiguration or incorrect parameter usage.

Is This Error Critical?

The severity of this error depends on the context in which it occurs. If the operation is critical and cannot proceed without successful memory allocation, then the error can be considered significant. However, if the operation is non-critical, the system may handle the failure by falling back to a default behavior or retrying with valid parameters.

How to Diagnose

To diagnose this issue, follow these steps:

  1. Review Operation Context: Ensure that the memory allocation operation is being performed in an appropriate context where such operations are allowed.
  2. Validate Parameters: Verify that the minimum allocation size parameter passed to the function is within the valid range supported by the system. Check for any constraints or limits imposed by the operating system or specific application requirements.
  3. Confirm Object Types: Ensure that the object type being allocated memory is correctly specified and aligns with the expected behavior of the operation.
  4. Verify Input Data: Confirm that all input data, including the minimum allocation size, are valid and meet the necessary constraints.
  5. Check Limits or Constraints: Review any system limits or capacity constraints that may affect the memory allocation operation.

How to Resolve

To resolve this issue, consider the following steps:

  1. Correct Parameter Usage: Ensure that the minimum allocation size parameter is set correctly and within the valid range supported by the operating system.
  2. Adjust Operation Context: If the operation context is incorrect, adjust it to ensure compatibility with memory allocation requirements.
  3. Restore Data: If corrupted data or invalid parameters are causing the issue, restore the correct values before retrying the operation.
  4. Retry Operation with Valid Inputs: Attempt to perform the memory allocation operation again using valid input parameters.

Developer Notes

Developers should be aware of the minimum size requirements for memory allocations and ensure that all parameters passed to such functions are within the valid range. Additionally, it is crucial to validate input data and handle potential errors gracefully to prevent system instability or failure.

Related Errors

FAQ

Q: What does ERROR_INVALID_MINALLOCSIZE mean?

A: The error indicates that a memory allocation operation failed due to an invalid minimum allocation size.

Q: How can I prevent this error from occurring?

A: Ensure that all parameters passed to memory allocation functions are within the valid range and meet the necessary constraints. Validate input data before performing memory allocations.

Q: Can this error be critical?

A: The severity of the error depends on the context in which it occurs. If the operation is critical, then yes; otherwise, it may not be as significant.

Summary

The ERROR_INVALID_MINALLOCSIZE error code indicates that a memory allocation operation failed due to an invalid minimum allocation size. This error can be diagnosed by reviewing the operation context and validating parameters. Proper handling of this error involves ensuring correct parameter usage and adjusting input data if necessary. Developers should pay attention to memory allocation constraints and validate all inputs to prevent such errors.