Category: Troubleshooting & Repair

Configuring a Siemens PCU

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When installing a replacement Siemens PCU, there are some steps that you need to follow to get it configured which we have detailed below.

Configuring the System

System Settings

–          How to change the name of the PCU

  • Default
    • The PCU is supplied with an automatically generated computer name
  • Procedure
    • To change the name of the PCU:
      • 1. Select Start >Control Panel >System
      • 2. Select the Computer Name tab and click on Change so the following dialog box opens Read More

Checking the Simodrive Power Section

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Ohm Checking the Simodrive Power Section
Caution!  It must be assured that power is removed and the DC Bus has drained to a safe level before any connections are removed or checked!

Check out our website for all Siemens and Simodrive products.

After you are sure that the DC Bus has safely discharged , a DVM on the Diode scale can be used to detect if a  short circuit or open exists in the power section.  Readings will vary with module size.

Note:   P600 and M600 are the 600 V DC Bus connections.  U2, V2 and W2 are the motor connections.

• Disconnect the P600, M600 bus bars, U2, V2 and W2 connections.  This isolates the power module from the motor and DC Bus.
• Diode check between P600 and U2, then V2 then W2. There should be continuity with the – lead on P600 and the + lead on U2, V2 or W2.  Readings should be open with the leads reversed.
• Diode check between M600 and U2, V2, W2.  There should be continuity with the + lead on M600 and the – lead on U2, V2 or W2.  Readings should be open with the leads reversed.
• Diode check between P600 and M600.  There should be continuity with the + lead on the M600 and the – lead on P600.  The reading should be open with the leads reversed.
• Diode check between U2, V2 and W2.  All combinations should read open.

Note:  If all readings are open the internal DC Bus fuse is open.  If there is a 0Ω reading, there is a  short in the power circuit.
Note 2: Because of the capacitance in the power circuit, resistance checks will indicate a charging effect.  It is necessary to wait until the measurement has stabilized to determine if it is correct.  If possible, it is best to use a DVM with a diode check.

For more info you can visit our website to see all our Siemens Simodrives or email sales@mroelectric.com.

Fanuc Motor Safety Procedures and Tips

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We have people ask about best practices for working with Fanuc motors all the time, so here are some Fanuc Motor Safety Procedures and Tips. For more info you can check out  all of our Fanuc products or email us at sales@mroelectric.com.
When working with servo motors:
•NEVER pick up or carry the motor by the cables or the shaft. (Always carry by the frame.) Use a crane or lift to move the motor when necessary.
•NEVER drop or subject the motor to impact. The servo motor is a precision device.
•NEVER set heavy or sharp objects on the motor or cables. Do not step or sit on the motor or cables.
•NEVER use a metal hammer on any part of the motor. If it is absolutely necessary to use a hammer, use a plastic hammer.
Keep the motor properly secured and away from the edge of the work area when servicing the motor, as a dropped motor could

cause personal injury or destroy the motor

Basic Motor Safety, Procedures, and Best Practices
• Be safely dressed when handling a motor.
Wear safety shoes and gloves. Avoid loose clothing which can get caught
on the motor. Be careful not to let hair get caught in the rotary section of the motor. Do not handle the motor with wet hands.
• Shut off the power before working on a motor. Wait at least 5 minutes after the motor is shut off before touching any
power terminals.
• Always use the correct cables. Centroid cables are shown in the motor compatibility table. Wiring diagrams and pin outs
for motors are provided in Appendix B.
• Ensure that the motor and motor related components are mounted securely. Ensure that the base or frame to which the
motor is mounted to is strong enough.
• Do not touch the rotary section of the motor when it is running unless instructed to.
• When attaching a component having inertia to the motor, ensure any imbalance between the motor and component is minimized.
• Be sure to attach a key to a motor with a keyed shaft.
• Use the motor in appropriate environmental conditions. Do not store flammables in close proximity to the motor. When
not in use, store the motor in a dry location between 0° to 40° C.
• Do not remove the nameplate from a motor

Control Techniques Focus 3 Drives Troubleshooting

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The Control Techniques Focus 3 drive is a single-phase analog drive for DC motors.  The Focus 3 provides anywhere from ¼ to 5 horsepower and has 2 regenerative and 2 non-regenerative chassis units.  Several measures can be taken to keep your drive functioning its best:

  • Be sure to keep your drive free of dust, dirt, oil, caustic atmosphere and excessive moisture.
  • The control should always be set away from any machines that have a high ambient temperature.
  • Air flow should not be restricted by other equipment.
  • Keep the drive away from high vibration areas that could cause the connections to loosen or chafe the wires.

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Control Techniques Commander SE HF Trip Codes

Joe Kaminski 10 Comments
Commander SE
Commander SE

The Control Techniques Commander SE Microdrive series is an AC open loop vector that provides great flexibility as well as a small footprint.  Although this series is reliable you may encounter one of the HF Trip codes listed below.  These codes are a result of an internal error in the drive.  Most often these trip codes can be resolved by powering down and allowing the drive sit for 5 minutes before powering up again.

If the HF Fault code does not clear then your drive will likely require a repair.

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