FANUC codes
FANUCSystemIntermediate30-60 minutes

918

Fanuc Alarm 918 - DRAM PARITY: BYTE 6

SYSTEM ALARM 918

Fanuc alarm 918: SYSTEM ALARM 918. This alarm indicates a fault condition detected by the Fanuc control. Refer to the alarm number and name to identify the specific system or function involved.

Root Cause Summary

Fanuc Alarm 918 DRAM PARITY BYTE 6 indicates a hardware-level memory failure on the main CPU board, specifically in the sixth byte of the DRAM memory array. This is a critical hardware fault that typically requires main CPU board replacement, as the DRAM is soldered directly to the board and cannot be individually replaced.

Causes and Fixes

  1. 1

    Power cycle the CNC completely - turn OFF main breaker, wait 60 seconds, then power ON. If alarm clears temporarily but returns, this confirms intermittent DRAM failure requiring board replacement.

    Back up all CNC parameters, programs, and offset data to memory card or via RS232 before proceeding, as board replacement will require data restoration.

  2. 2

    Check SYSTEM > ALARM log to determine if alarm 918 is recurring or isolated. Note exact time stamps and any pattern (power-on only, random during operation, or after specific operations).

  3. 3

    Verify main CPU board part number and serial number. For 0i series: typically A20B-8100-xxxx or A20B-8200-xxxx. For 30i/31i/32i series: A20B-8100-xxxx, A20B-8101-xxxx, or A02B-0319-xxxx depending on model.

  4. 4

    Replace main CPU board with correct revision matched to current control software version. After installation, reload all backed-up parameters and perform full system initialization per Fanuc maintenance manual procedures.

    Ensure replacement board firmware/software version matches or is compatible with current system. Version mismatch can cause additional alarms or system instability.

Service Recommendedlow confidence

Call a technician if:

  • ·DRAM replacement required
  • ·CPU board replacement needed
  • ·Persistent alarm after basic troubleshooting
  • ·No experience with CPU board handling

Prevention

  • Maintain stable power supply voltages
  • Ensure proper EMI shielding and grounding
  • Keep control cabinet temperature below 40°C
  • Perform regular backup of system parameters
  • Schedule preventive maintenance of cooling systems

Common Mistakes

  • Handling memory modules without anti-static precautions
  • Ignoring power supply voltage quality
  • Not checking for EMI sources
  • Attempting to repair CPU board components
  • Failing to backup data before hardware replacement

Seeing Multiple Alarms?

Seeing another alarm with this one? Enter the code.

Get machine-aware diagnosis

AxisMD logs alarms against your actual machines, tracks patterns, and gives AI context your manual doesn't have.

Start free

Was this guide helpful?

Always verify with your machine manual or a certified technician before performing service procedures.