EL
ErrorLib
Brands
||
  1. Home
  2. ABB
  3. AC500-S Safety Controller
  4. 3
About·Privacy·Terms

ErrorLib — Industrial Fault Code Library

Disclaimer: ErrorLib is an independent technical reference tool. While we aim for accuracy, always verify with the manufacturer’s official service manuals before performing maintenance on industrial equipment. ErrorLib is not affiliated with the brands listed.

3

Discrepancy time expired

ABB · AC500-S Safety Controller

What does 3 mean?

The configured discrepancy time for redundant inputs has elapsed, meaning that the states of redundant channels did not synchronize within the expected timeframe. This indicates a fault in the sensors, wiring, or configuration, preventing valid safety signal evaluation.

Common Causes

  • One of the redundant input sensors (e.g., safety gate switch S1 vs S2) has a significantly slower response time or actuation delay than the other.
  • Intermittent signal loss or delay on one of the redundant input channels due to wiring issues (e.g., a loose connection at terminal X2.5 delaying signal transmission).
  • The configured discrepancy time (e.g., Parameter S2-01) in the safety controller is set too short for the normal operational differences between the redundant sensors or the application's physical response.
  • A physical obstruction or mechanical issue preventing one sensor from actuating or de-actuating in sync with its redundant counterpart.
  • One of the redundant sensors is intermittently sticking or failing to change state reliably, leading to timing mismatches.

Repair Steps & Checklist

Click steps to track your progress.

  1. 1

    Actuate and de-actuate the safety function (e.g., opening and closing a guard door) while monitoring the status of both redundant inputs in the PLC's diagnostic view, observing their transition times.

  2. 2

    Using an oscilloscope or logic analyzer, measure the actual signal transition times of both redundant inputs directly at the I/O module terminals to identify delays.

  3. 3

    Verify the configured discrepancy time (e.g., Parameter S2-01) in the safety controller's programming matches the expected operational delays and adjust it if necessary (with careful safety assessment).

  4. 4

    Perform a continuity test on the wiring for both redundant channels to rule out intermittent open circuits or high resistance that could cause signal delays.

  5. 5

    If one sensor consistently responds slower or fails to transition, isolate and test that specific sensor for mechanical or electrical faults; replace if confirmed faulty.

Browse all codes in this manual (48)
Verified technical data. Last updated: April 2026

Related Faults

10Process voltage too high11Process voltage too low12Test pulse error
Source: ABB AC500-S Safety Controller
View Official PDFSearch more codes in this manual