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I've been using Arduino UNO for quite sometime and brought a new Arduino Nano. When I connected it to my computer, the power usb lit up and the blink sketch started running ( as expected of course).

Now I opened up the IDE and switched boards. But when I try to upload code to my Nano I get an error-

avrdude: ser_open(): can't open device "\.\COM3": The system cannot find the file specified.

Clearly the IDE can't see my board. Uploading to my UNO goes fine. The serial port option is greyed out so I can't change it.

I have searched extensively online for a solution and have found none. This must be either a very unique issue or a very simple one.

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Is it a genuine Arduino Nano or a cheap Chinese clone Nano? – Majenko Aug 7 at 13:35
    
@Majenko most probably a clone. I don't see anything written on the board. And the same coloured power and pin13 LED further confirm the fact. Have I done a mistake?? – YaddyVirus Aug 7 at 13:47
    
No, but it will need different drivers. CH340G – Majenko Aug 7 at 13:48
    
@Majenko I bought it online. The seller listed it a genuine one, but I just noticed that. BTW a google search for CH340G shows up differrent adapters. Do I need to buy an external adapted to program it?? – YaddyVirus Aug 7 at 13:52
    
Check the numbers on the chip on the underside first. – Majenko Aug 7 at 13:54
up vote 1 down vote accepted

Firstly, you have a clone not a genuine Arduino Nano. They use a different USB chip and require different drivers. Install the CH340 drivers.

Secondly your cable is bad. It sounds like one with no data wires in it used for powering or charging small low-powered devices like bluetooth headsets etc. Replace the cable with a proper one.

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