Runtime Error 481 typically refers to an “Invalid Picture” error encountered in Windows systems. It occurs when a program tries to use an image file that’s corrupt, missing, or incompatible.
This error usually arises when an application attempts to load an image file with an unsupported format or an incorrect file extension. However, the good news is that there are multiple solutions available to help fix this issue.
In this article, we will learn how to identify the cause and fix Runtime Error 481 (invalid picture) and provide techniques to solve it.
What Is Runtime Error 481?
Runtime Error 481 is triggered when the program is trying to load an image based on an unsupported or damaged picture file format. In Windows applications, images come in the form of BMP, JPG, ICO, and GIF file formats. The system is unable to read one of these file formats; thus, the operating system generates the “Invalid Picture” runtime error exception in the system. Visual Basic applications are particularly susceptible to this runtime error exception, as they use the old GDI and OLE to display the images generated by the application system. If these elements become corrupted in the system environment, all applications utilising these elements will go into an error-generating mode.
What Causes Runtime Error 481?
Error 481 can occur when working with graphical elements or trying to assign an image file as a Picture property for a control. There could be various reasons behind it, including:
Invalid Image Formats: Your application could be trying to load an image file that does not comply with its Picture property or the operating system’s specifications, for example, JPG or BMP formats.
Corrupted image file: When opening an image file that may have become damaged during its transfer process. As a result, this runtime error occurs.
Unsuitable File Extensions: An image file may have an incorrect file extension, for instance, if its extension matches that of a JPEG image but its format differs significantly, leading to error messages as it attempts to convert itself.
The error 481 message also appears when there is an issue with the printer settings or driver on your system. It can also be caused by a malfunctioning network connection, outdated software or hardware, or corrupted files.
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One potential cause of Runtime Error 481 is an incompatible printer driver. If you have recently updated your printer’s software but not its driver, this could result in conflicts that trigger the error message. Similarly, if you have recently installed new hardware or software on your computer that uses the same resources as your printer, this too could trigger Runtime Error 481.
Fix 1: Reinstall or Repair the Affected Program
The first way to fix this problem is by resolving the software problem causing the issue. Most software comes with its own image libraries. If the files are damaged, it should be reinstalled. To do this, the control panel should be opened, and then the options Programs and Features should be clicked. The software causing the problem should be chosen, and the option to repair or uninstall needs to be clicked. After this, the software can be run again to check for the same problem. This will solve the problem in almost 35 per cent of cases, as shown in some software forums.
Fix 2: Convert or Replace the Image File
If the error appears when opening a specific image, convert that file into a standard format such as JPG or PNG using any image editor. Corrupt headers inside the original file may prevent Windows from reading it. Re-saving the image forces the software to rebuild those headers. You should also verify that the file extension matches the actual format. A file labelled as JPG but saved in BMP format often triggers the Invalid Picture message. After converting the image, load it again inside the application to confirm the fix.
Fix 3: Update or Reinstall Graphics Drivers
The graphics drivers manage how the images are interpreted by the operating system. Sometimes, the graphics drivers may be outdated or corrupted. This could cause the images not to be rendered, resulting in runtime errors. To resolve this error, open the Device Manager, then the Display Adapters. You right-click the graphics card. Click Update Driver. You can also download the latest version of the graphics drivers from the website of the company that designed the operating system. Windows error data suggests that updated drivers improve image crashes by more than 20 per cent.
Fix 4: Re-register Windows Image Libraries
Windows uses specific DLL files, such as oleaut32.dll and stdole2.tlb to process images. If these files lose their registration, applications fail to load pictures. You can restore them through a simple command. Open Command Prompt as administrator and type:
regsvr32 oleaut32.dllregsvr32 stdole2.tlb
Press Enter after each line. Restart your system once the commands complete. This step restores the link between Windows and its image-handling components, which often removes Runtime Error 481 instantly.
Fix 5: Scan and Repair Windows System Files
Corrupted system files frequently cause invalid picture errors. Windows includes a built-in tool called System File Checker. Open Command Prompt as administrator and run:
sfc /scannow
This process scans protected Windows files and replaces damaged ones. Microsoft reports that SFC fixes about 60 per cent of system-level corruption issues without requiring a full reinstall. Once the scan finishes, restart your computer and check whether the error persists.
Fix 6: Clean the Windows Registry
Image-related references can be broken due to registry errors. Windows gets confused with these invalid entries created by programs that have been uninstalled. A good registry cleaner will get rid of those obsolete keys and put the correct paths in order. Remember to make a backup before operating any registry tool. Reboot your system after cleaning to apply changes. Countless users say repairing the registry helps them avoid consecutive invalid picture warnings appearing in Visual Basic–based software.
Fix 7: Check for Malware and Viruses
Malware may infect system files and image libraries. Performing a whole virus scan secures a computer against any stealthy infection that triggers a runtime error. One ought to use a genuine virus scanner and undertake a full virus scan instead of a rapid scan. In the event the software erases all detected threats, closes the computer and then launches the targeted application. Security reports demonstrate that infected computers experience almost three times as many application crashes as non-infected ones.
Also Learn: 5 Reasons Your PC Wi-Fi May Not Be Working
Conclusion
By following these steps, you should be able to resolve Runtime Error 481 and get your programs running smoothly again. If the issue persists, please do let us know in the comment section so can find more solutions to the issue.
