ERROR_MEDIA_CHECK - 679 (0x2A7)
{Media Changed} The media may have changed.
Updated: Feb 21, 2026
Technical Meaning
The ERROR_MEDIA_CHECK error code indicates that the system has detected a change in media, such as a CD or DVD being inserted into a drive. This can occur during file operations when the media is not consistent with expectations.
Error Details
This error typically arises from scenarios where the system expects certain conditions on a medium but finds them to be different. For example, if an application attempts to read data from a disk that has been removed or replaced, this error may be generated.
Usage Context
The ERROR_MEDIA_CHECK is commonly encountered in file system operations and media handling routines. It can also appear when attempting to access files on removable media such as CDs, DVDs, or USB drives.
Developer Interpretation
When encountering the ERROR_MEDIA_CHECK, developers should consider that the expected state of the medium has changed. This could be due to a user inserting new media into a drive, removing old media, or any other scenario where the media content does not match expectations.
Related Errors
- ERROR_FILE_NOT_FOUND (2): Indicates that the file being accessed is no longer present on the expected medium.
- ERROR_PATH_NOT_FOUND (3): Similar to
ERROR_MEDIA_CHECK, but specifically for path-related issues. - ERROR_INVALID_DRIVE (18): Occurs when an invalid drive letter or device name is specified, which can be related to media changes.
FAQ
Q: What does the ERROR_MEDIA_CHECK mean?
A: It indicates that the expected state of a medium has changed, such as new media being inserted into a drive during file operations.
Q: How should I handle this error in my application?
A: You should check if the media has been replaced and adjust your operation context accordingly. Consider retrying the operation or prompting the user to insert the correct media.
Summary
The ERROR_MEDIA_CHECK is a generic error code that indicates a change in media state, which can affect file operations on removable media. Developers should be prepared for such changes and handle them appropriately within their applications.