Device Unavailable
Amstrad Amstrad CPC
Severity: MinorWhat Does This Error Mean?
Device Unavailable means the program tried to use a hardware device (printer, second disk drive, cassette) that isn't connected or isn't responding. Check the device is connected, powered on, and online.
Affected Models
- Amstrad CPC 464
- Amstrad CPC 664
- Amstrad CPC 6128
- Amstrad CPC 464+
- Amstrad CPC 6128+
Common Causes
- Printer not connected or not switched on
- Printer not set to Online mode
- Second disk drive not connected (program expects drive B:)
- Cassette deck not connected (on a CPC 664/6128 without built-in tape)
- OPEN IN / OPEN OUT to a device that doesn't exist
How to Fix It
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Check the printer is connected, powered, and Online.
The parallel printer cable must be properly connected to the CPC's printer port. The printer must be powered on AND its Online/Select button pressed — most printers have a light indicating online status.
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If the program expects drive B:, check drive B is connected.
The CPC 464 and 6128 had one built-in drive. A second drive B: required an external drive unit. Programs that reference B: without it connected give Device Unavailable.
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For cassette errors, check the cassette lead.
The CPC 464 has a built-in cassette. The 664 and 6128 used external cassette decks connected via a dedicated cable. Check the cable and that the deck is in the correct mode (Remote or Play).
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Check the BASIC code for OPEN statements.
If the program uses OPEN "COM1:" or opens to a channel for a device, ensure that device exists. Change the code to use a different device or add error handling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a USB printer with an Amstrad CPC?
Not directly — the CPC uses a Centronics parallel port, not USB. However, parallel-to-USB adapters exist, and some enthusiasts use Raspberry Pi-based interfaces to connect modern printers. For most retro users, a period-correct dot matrix printer with a parallel connection is the simplest solution.