What does the CHA error mean on a Nikon D90, and how do I fix it?
Asked 10/1/2013
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My Nikon D90 is showing a “CHA” message on the top LCD. I’ve seen suggestions like removing and reinserting the battery or memory card, but I’d like to know what the error actually means and what the best troubleshooting steps are for fixing it more permanently.
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
12y ago
2 Answers
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The D90 uses CHA as a generic 'card error' condition if a problem occurs while the card is in use. If the card works at all or has been working then it's unlikely to be a formatting issue.
This could just be a case of a poor connection and cleaning the contacts on the card and reseating everything may solve it.
If it has been working then there could be a problem with the card in which case you should be able to test it in a desktop machine and retire/replace it if necessary.
There is also an issue I've had with the D90 and larger memory cards (over 8gb) where it incorrectly calculates 'checksums' used to determine if there is a problem (although it writes them correctly) when the value isn't what it expects then you'll get a CHA message.
As a temporary resolution you can access the card in a reader and copy & remove the last written file but if this is your issue then the problem will return at some point.
I've been in touch with Nikon about it but without being able to reproduce the issue at will Nikon have not been helpful. The solution I ended up with was just to use multiple cards, which is no great hardship.
Originally by user14028. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user14028
12y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
On the Nikon D90, “CHA” generally means a memory card error. It indicates the camera can’t properly read or use the card, often due to card compatibility, formatting/partition issues, dirty contacts, or a failing card.
Try these steps:
- Remove and reinsert the card and battery.
- Clean the card contacts gently and make sure the card is seated properly.
- Check the card’s write-protect switch and make sure it isn’t locked.
- Test the card in a computer or another device. If it shows errors, replace it.
- Reformat the card in the camera if possible.
- If the card was formatted on a computer, reformat it in a camera-compatible format.
If the error happens only with one card, that card is likely the problem. If it happens with multiple known-good cards, the camera’s card interface may need service. Some users have also reported issues with larger-capacity cards on the D90, so trying a smaller, known-compatible card can help confirm the cause.
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