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ERROR_UNABLE_TO_UNLOAD_MEDIA
unable to unload the media.
ERROR_UNABLE_TO_UNLOAD_MEDIA means that the device could not eject, rewind-and-unload, or otherwise remove the currently loaded medium.
Where the result appears
- tape libraries and standalone drives.
- optical and removable storage eject operations.
- backup job completion and media rotation.
- operator or automation requests to move media.
Typical causes
- the device is busy, reserved, or still has outstanding I/O.
- media is physically stuck or the mechanism reported a fault.
- the drive requires rewind, unlock, or another preparatory step.
- library inventory, robotics, or drive state is inconsistent.
What to collect
- outstanding handles and I/O, lock state, reservation owner, and drive status.
- sense codes, firmware events, and library robotics logs.
- whether rewind completed and the medium is at a valid unload position.
- physical indicators and whether manual intervention was attempted.
Handling and recovery
Stop new I/O, close handles, complete required rewind/unlock steps, and retry only after the drive reports ready. Repeated unload commands against a mechanical fault can worsen damage. Escalate to operator intervention according to the device procedure.
Common misinterpretation
Failure to unload does not prove that data on the medium is unreadable; it may be an ownership or mechanical-state problem.
References
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