Control word time-out

What does 17 mean?

The frequency converter has stopped receiving valid control word commands via its serial communication interface, leading to a timeout. This alarm is active when parameter 8-04 Control Timeout Function is not set to [0] Off. If configured to Stop and Trip, the drive will safely ramp down and then trip, indicating a loss of communication. Unresolved communication loss prevents external control of the drive.

• Loss of communication link due to a disconnected, damaged, or broken serial communication cable (e.g., RS485, Ethernet).
• The master controller (PLC/DCS) has stopped sending valid control words or has lost power.
• Incorrect serial communication parameters (e.g., P8-00 Protocol, P8-01 Address, P8-02 Baud Rate) configured in the drive.
• Faulty communication module or port on the drive's control card.
• Network collision or excessive noise on the communication bus interfering with data transmission.

Click steps to track your progress.

1. 1

   Verify the physical connection of the serial communication cable (e.g., RS485 A/B, Ethernet RJ45) at both the drive and the master controller.

2. 2

   Check drive parameters P8-00 (Protocol), P8-01 (Address), P8-02 (Baud Rate), and P8-03 (Parity) match the master controller settings.

3. 3

   Monitor communication activity using LED indicators on the drive's communication port or the master controller's module.

4. 4

   Temporarily disable the control word timeout function (set P8-04 Control Timeout Function to 'No function') for diagnostic purposes.

5. 5

   Use a communication diagnostic tool (e.g., Modbus RTU scanner) to test direct communication with the drive's address.