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FANUC Controller
Spindle · Intermediate · 20-60 minutes
Fanuc Alarm 381 - Spindle Mode Switching Failed
Alarm 381 indicates the servo amplifier has detected abnormal phase signals from the external linear scale (absolute or incremental) on the specified axis. This occurs when the A/B phase signals are corrupted, missing, or improperly connected, preventing proper position feedback. The alarm protects against incorrect positioning due to compromised scale signal integrity.
Fanuc Alarm 381 - Spindle Mode Switching Failed
Spindle Mode Change Error
Fanuc spindle alarm 381: Spindle Mode Change Error. A fault has been detected in the spindle system. Check the spindle amplifier for fault codes and the Fanuc alarm list for the specific SP alarm sub-code.
Root Cause Summary
Alarm 381 indicates the servo amplifier has detected abnormal phase signals from the external linear scale (absolute or incremental) on the specified axis. This occurs when the A/B phase signals are corrupted, missing, or improperly connected, preventing proper position feedback. The alarm protects against incorrect positioning due to compromised scale signal integrity.
Safety
Causes and Fixes
Power off the machine. Inspect the linear scale cable from the read head to the amplifier JD1A/JD1B connector (α/β series) or appropriate scale input connector. Check for physical damage, oil contamination, or pinched cables near cable carriers.
LOTO required - verify zero voltage before handling cables
Disconnect and reconnect scale connectors at both the amplifier and scale head. Inspect pins for corrosion, bent contacts, or debris. Use contact cleaner if contamination is present.
Check cable shield continuity and grounding. Measure resistance between shield and machine ground (should be <1Ω). Verify shield is grounded only at amplifier end, not at both ends which causes ground loops.
If cable damage is suspected, temporarily swap the scale cable with a known-good spare or another axis cable to isolate the fault. Monitor if alarm follows the cable.
Call a technician if:
Prevention
Common Mistakes
Seeing Multiple Alarms?
Seeing another alarm with this one? Enter the code.
AxisMD logs alarms against your actual machines, tracks patterns, and gives AI context your manual doesn't have.
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Always verify with your machine manual or a certified technician before performing service procedures.