How to fix “Unable to retrieve the slot status. [ERROR_UNABLE_TO_INVENTORY_SLOT (0x10E6)]” – Error Code 4326

Overview

This article provides comprehensive instructions on resolving Error Code 4326, “Unable to retrieve the slot status. [ERROR_UNABLE_TO_INVENTORY_SLOT (0x10E6)].” We’ll guide you through common fixes and advanced troubleshooting techniques to alleviate this issue and optimize your system’s performance.

Identifying the Problem

Error Code 4326 is encountered when accessing storage devices, such as hard disk drives (HDDs) or solid-state drives (SSDs). It indicates that the system is unable to gather information about the device’s slot status, hindering its ability to mount or interact with the drive properly.

Common Fixes

1. Update Drivers:

• Ensure your storage device and motherboard drivers are up-to-date. Outdated drivers may interfere with the system’s ability to communicate with the storage device.

2. Reseat the Storage Device:

• Power down your computer and disconnect the storage device.
• Physically remove and reinsert the device into its slot.
• Reboot the system to see if the issue persists.

3. Run Disk Check:

• Open Command Prompt (CMD) as administrator.
• Type “chkdsk C: /f” (replace “C” with the drive letter of the problematic device) and press Enter.
• This will scan and repair any disk errors or inconsistencies.

Advanced Troubleshooting

1. Reconfigure Device Slot:

• Open Device Manager and locate your storage device.
• Right-click on the device and select “Properties.”
• Navigate to the “Details” tab and change the “Property” dropdown to “Device Instance Path.”
• Look for the “PCIROOT” or “PCIBUS” segment in the path.
• Note the slot number (e.g., 0000 for Slot 1).
• In the “Device Manager,” expand the “System Devices” section.
• Right-click on “PCI Express Root Port” and select “Properties.”
• In the “Advanced” tab, click on “Bus Number” and set it to the bus number corresponding to the slot noted earlier.
• Repeat this step for any other “PCI Express Root Port” devices with the same slot number.

2. Disable Storage Controllers:

• Open Device Manager.
• Expand the “Storage Controllers” section.
• Right-click on all storage controllers (e.g., SATA AHCI Controller) and select “Disable.”
• Reboot the system and re-enable the storage controllers one by one until the issue is resolved.

Conclusion

By following the solutions outlined above, you should be able to resolve Error Code 4326. To prevent future occurrences, it’s essential to keep your operating system and drivers updated, handle storage devices with care, and seek professional assistance if the issue persists or worsens. By ensuring the health of your system’s hardware and software, you can minimize downtime and maximize productivity.