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Seeing the error code “this device cannot find enough free resources that it can use (code 12) graphics card” is alarming because it prevents you from using the device until you resolve the issue. Thankfully, it’s not too tough to solve this problem.
Why Can This Device Not Find Enough Free Resources That It Can Use Occur?
The code 12 error usually occurs because there’s a problem with your graphics card or a network adapter. The graphics card improves your computer’s visuals, especially if you’re gaming or streaming. Unfortunately, the error can also impact the sound card, worsening your gaming and streaming experience.
The network adapter refers to how you connect to the internet. When there’s a network adapter problem due to code 12, you can’t get online regardless of your router or internet service status.
How To Fix This Device That Cannot Find Enough Free Resources That It Can Use?
People having trouble with their graphics card, including any sound or visual problems, might wonder if this code is the culprit. Many games see “GPU this device cannot find enough free resources” when trying to load the program. As it also impacts internet connectivity, you’ll want to pinpoint the problem quickly.
Go to the Device Manager and check the device properties. You’ll see the entire error message, including the “this device cannot find enough free resources that it can use (code 12) graphics card” portion. It commonly tells you that you need to disable another device on the system to troubleshoot. But that’s not the only option.
The computer reads this error as two separate devices using the same I/O port. That’s a socket on your computer where you plug in specific cables.
Solutions:
Have you ever wondered, “What is the purpose of error codes?” Knowing the code helps you find the right solution. For example, “this device cannot find enough free resources GPU mining” tells you there’s a problem with your graphics card.
For users encountering the code “this device cannot find enough free resources that it can use (code 12) graphics card,” read on to find out how to troubleshoot it.
1. Follow the Suggested Resolution
The suggested resolution is often to check the I/O port and unplug one of the connected devices. You can do this to ensure there’s only one cable attached. Another suggestion might be updating Windows, which is something you can do even when you’re not experiencing computer trouble.
Click in the Windows search bar and type “Update.” The right box pops up immediately, and you can click “Check for updates.” Even if the last update check was earlier in the day, it’s worth running another check to ensure nothing changed.
If there are any new updates, your computer will download the files. Then, you’ll click to install all additional updates. Then, restart your device and see if the code 12 error goes away.
2. Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter
Some people try to access the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter through the Control Panel, but you don’t have to make that effort. Instead, simply type this code into the Windows search bar: msdt.exe – id DeviceDiagnostic.
When you press Enter, the correct window pops up. Click Next, so it runs the scan. If the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter finds any problems, you can apply the suggested fixes. Once it’s done, restart your computer to ensure the code 12 error is gone.
3. Update the Device Driver via Device Manager
You already checked for Windows updates, but you’ll also want to update the Device Driver. This process differs from updating the operating system itself. For example, a driver can have a problem that causes glitches with your device’s functionality.
Right-click on the Windows icon on the Start menu. Scroll down to Device Manager and open it. Click on the arrow next to “Display adapters” to see everything. You’ll right-click on your graphics card and see the option to “Update driver.” Choose the option to “Search automatically for drivers” so your computer chooses the most recent update.
Once that’s done, expand the options below “Network adapters.” Right-click on the listed devices to update those as well. You can check your whole system by looking for anything that has a yellow exclamation mark beside it. Even if you’re not getting an error code now, your computer found that device problematic, so it’s best to fix the issue now.
Device Manager is a tool you should only use when you’re in a jam. Otherwise, you can download drivers directly from the manufacturer. This approach cuts out the middleman, so you know you’re getting the latest and greatest option.
4. Uninstall the Device Causing the Problem
Some people find it scary to uninstall anything on their computer, but it’s an adequate approach if nothing else makes a difference.
Right-click on the Start menu again. Choose Device Manager and open it. Expand the right option, like “Display adapters” or “Network adapters.” Right-click on the option as you did when you were running updates. This time you’ll select “Uninstall device” instead of “Update driver.”
You’ll see a pop-up window warning you that you’re about to uninstall the device. It’s tempting to turn back, but grit your teeth and check the box to confirm you want to delete the driver software. Finally, select the Uninstall button and then restart your computer.
Uninstalling the drivers removes everything related to it, so you’ll eliminate any bugs or glitches associated with that driver. You can then check Device Manager to see if the reboot reinstalled the drivers. You can also manually reinstall them by right-clicking and choosing the appropriate option.
5. Allocate Resources From BIOS
Users with a certain level of technical knowledge might feel comfortable updating BIOS. If you feel anxious about this step, ask a computer-savvy friend to help or take your device to a repair shop. However, incorrectly updating BIOS can harm the rest of your computer system while you are just trying to fix code 12 GPU mining.
Go to the Windows search bar and type “System Information.” When you hit Enter, you’ll see important information listed beneath both “BIOS Version/Date” and “BaseBoard Product.”
Go to the homepage of the manufacturer who made your motherboard. Then, use the data from “System Information” to find and install your motherboard’s latest version of BIOS.
Reboot your computer after installation, and everything should run smoothly.
How Do I Fix Error Code 12 on Windows 7/10?
You’ll see error 12 not getting enough resources in Windows 7/10 if you’re using two devices that use the same I/O post or Direct Memory Access channel. If BIOS doesn’t provide enough resources for the device, you can see this code through no fault of your own.
Using Device Manager is the best way to fix this code on Windows 7/10. First, select the Help option to see information on the suggested resolution. Then, when you open Device Manager, you’ll see a yellow exclamation point next to the driver in question. Double-click on it and select the troubleshooting option for a quick fix.
Conclusion
While it’s never fun to see an error code, much less “this device cannot find enough free resources that it can use (code 12) graphics card,” it’s not the death knell you might have expected. The steps above work to fix your issue with very little time and effort, so you’ll get back online in no time.
