To address this, relinking the media in the video editor should resolve the issue. Below, we outline various methods to help you fix the Media Offline error in DaVinci Resolve.
1. Relink Offline Media
The Media Offline error is often caused by media files becoming unlinked from DaVinci Resolve. This might occur due to inconsistencies within the application or after changing your media files’ physical location on your hard disk. To resolve the issue, provide DaVinci Resolve with the new media location. Follow these steps:
2. Set Render Cache to None
DaVinci Resolve’s Render Cache can improve project playback performance by storing rendered frames in memory or on disk. However, issues can arise if the cache settings do not match the media’s format or resolution. To correct this, disable the Render Cache as follows:
3. Edit Media Storage Preferences
For users employing external drives for their DaVinci Resolve media, ensuring that the program can automatically access these drives is imperative. Modify the media storage preferences with these steps:
4. Ensure Media Exists in the Media Pool
The “Media Offline” error can occur if the media is not in the media pool, perhaps due to accidental deletion. Without the media in the media pool, DaVinci Resolve cannot locate the file. Verify that the required media is included in your media pool; this tells DaVinci Resolve where the media is located, facilitating access. If issues continue despite the media being in the pool, proceed to the next solution.
5. Check Media Storage
“Media Offline” messages often result from storing media on external storage devices that are not connected to your computer. If DaVinci Resolve cannot access the files, this error appears. Ensure the media files are stored on your hard drive or properly connected external storage. If using an SD card, it’s recommended to transfer the files to a hard drive for smoother editing with DaVinci Resolve.
6. Delete Render Cache
Sometimes the render cache in DaVinci Resolve can become corrupt. Deleting the current render cache will compel DaVinci Resolve to create a new, uncorrupted version. Delete the render cache by following these steps:
7. Check DaVinci Resolve Version
The version of DaVinci Resolve you are using could also be responsible for the error. The free version does not support all media codecs, which can lead to the Media Offline error during playback. For example, the 10-bit H.264 format is not supported in the free version. You may need to purchase the full version of DaVinci Resolve or convert your media files to a supported format.
8. Install HEVC Codec (Paid)
Codec issues might cause the Media Offline error if certain required codecs are missing on your system for use with DaVinci Resolve. Free users often encounter this issue, which can be resolved by installing the HEVC codec, which costs approximately 1 USD. Purchasers of DaVinci Resolve should already have this codec. To install, click on this link and navigate to the Microsoft Store page. Buy the codec, install it, and check if the issue remains.
9. Change Timeline Resolution
The Media Offline error can be related to the resolution of your timeline. If the media files are incompatible with the playback resolution, they may appear as offline. Change the timeline resolution to fix the issue as follows:
10. Change Power Plan
The power plan on your computer may influence DaVinci Resolve’s functionality. This is common when a low-performance power plan is active. DaVinci Resolve, being resource-intensive, requires optimal performance capabilities. Switch to the High-Performance power plan using these steps:
11. Update Graphics Drivers
Outdated graphics drivers can cause issues with DaVinci Resolve, including the Media Offline error. To update your graphics drivers, uninstall the current drivers and install the latest ones. Proceed with the following steps:
12. Re-encode Media File
If none of the above methods work, the issue might lie in the encoding of your media files. DaVinci Resolve sometimes struggles with certain codecs, leading to media files going offline. Re-encode your media files to a compatible codec. If using H.265 files, it is advised to re-encode them to H.264 using Handbrake. With these methods, you should resolve the Media Offline issue in DaVinci Resolve. For persistent problems, create a thread on the official forums for further assistance.
