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FANUC Controller
Program/G-code · Intermediate · 5-30 minutes
Fanuc 208 - Cannot command in synchronous control
FANUC 208 alarm occurs when the part program attempts to execute a command that is not allowed during synchronous control mode. This typically happens when synchronized spindle control (such as C-axis positioning, spindle synchronization, or rigid tapping) is active and an incompatible G-code or M-code is commanded. The control cannot process certain commands while maintaining synchronous operation between multiple axes or spindles.
Fanuc 208 - Cannot command in synchronous control
CANNOT COMMAND IN SYNCHRONOUS CONTROL
Fanuc PS program alarm 208: CANNOT COMMAND IN SYNCHRONOUS CONTROL. This alarm is triggered by an illegal or incorrectly formatted command in the part program, or a programming condition that the Fanuc control cannot execute.
Root Cause Summary
FANUC 208 alarm occurs when the part program attempts to execute a command that is not allowed during synchronous control mode. This typically happens when synchronized spindle control (such as C-axis positioning, spindle synchronization, or rigid tapping) is active and an incompatible G-code or M-code is commanded. The control cannot process certain commands while maintaining synchronous operation between multiple axes or spindles.
Safety
Causes and Fixes
Review the program line where the alarm occurs and identify the active synchronous mode (check for G96 constant surface speed, M19 spindle orientation, or G84/G74 rigid tapping).
Check if G50 (spindle speed limit or coordinate setting), G92 (coordinate system setting), or G96/G97 changes are commanded during active synchronization. Cancel synchronous mode before these commands.
Verify that spindle override or speed changes are not commanded during rigid tapping cycles. Use G80 to cancel the cycle before changing spindle parameters.
Restructure the program to cancel synchronous control (G97, G80, or M-code to release C-axis) before the prohibited command, then re-establish synchronization if needed.
Ensure tool position is safe before canceling synchronous modes, as this may affect tool path control.
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