?FILE NOT FOUND ERROR
Commodore Commodore 64
Severity: MinorWhat Does This Error Mean?
?FILE NOT FOUND ERROR means the Commodore 64 searched the disk or tape but could not find a file with the name you specified. The filename may be misspelled, the file may not exist on that disk, or you may be looking at the wrong device. Use LOAD "$",8 then LIST to see what files are on the disk.
Affected Models
- Commodore 64
- Commodore 64C
- Commodore 128 (C64 mode)
- VICE emulator (C64)
Common Causes
- Filename misspelled in the LOAD command
- File does not exist on the current disk or tape
- Using the wrong device number (8 for disk, 1 for tape)
- Filename contains uppercase/lowercase mismatch (C64 BASIC shows uppercase but stores PETSCII)
- Disk directory corrupted or disk not properly formatted
How to Fix It
-
Load and list the disk directory to see all available files.
Type LOAD "$",8 and press RETURN, then type LIST. This shows every file on the disk with its name, size, and type. Find the exact filename you need and use it in your LOAD command.
-
Check the spelling of the filename carefully.
C64 filenames are case-sensitive in PETSCII. If the directory shows MYGAME, you must type LOAD "MYGAME",8 — not LOAD "MyGame",8.
-
Use wildcards if you are unsure of the exact filename.
LOAD "MY*",8 loads the first file on disk whose name starts with MY. This is useful if the filename has special characters or you cannot remember the full name.
-
Make sure you are using the correct device number.
Device 8 is the first floppy disk drive. Device 9 is the second drive. Device 1 is the datasette (tape). If your file is on tape, use LOAD "FILENAME",1 — not device 8.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I list all files on a C64 floppy disk?
Type LOAD "$",8 and press RETURN. When it says READY, type LIST. The directory listing shows all files with their sizes and types (PRG for programs, SEQ for sequential files).
Why does the C64 not search all drives automatically?
The C64 only looks at the specific device number you specify in the LOAD command. Unlike modern computers, there is no concept of a search path or default drive — you must tell it exactly where to look.