Alarm 1231 occurs when the NGC control's pre-motion validation detects missing, invalid, or conflicting parameters in probing G-code blocks before any axis movement begins. This typically happens with G31 skip function commands, canned probing cycles, or macro-driven probing routines where required parameters like feedrate, axis destinations, or probe input assignments are missing or outside acceptable ranges.
HaasProbingIntermediate10 - 30 min
1231
Haas Alarm 1231 - Probing G-Code Error
Probing G-Code Error
The control has detected an error in the G-code command syntax or parameters used in a probing cycle, preventing the probing routine from executing. This alarm is generated by the MOCON when probing G-codes such as G65 P9023 or canned probe cycles contain invalid arguments, missing required parameters, or logically impossible values. The machine will not execute the probing move until the code is corrected.
Root Cause Summary
Alarm 1231 occurs when the NGC control's pre-motion validation detects missing, invalid, or conflicting parameters in probing G-code blocks before any axis movement begins. This typically happens with G31 skip function commands, canned probing cycles, or macro-driven probing routines where required parameters like feedrate, axis destinations, or probe input assignments are missing or outside acceptable ranges.
Safety
Probing will not run
⚠️ CRITICAL: Probing cycle will not execute - machine will not perform touch probe operations
Ensure the machine is in a safe state before troubleshooting. Stop the program and disable automatic operation.
Disconnect power to the machine before working on electrical components. Lockout/Tagout procedures should be followed.
Be aware of potential pinch points and moving parts during manual jogging and probing operations.
Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as safety glasses and gloves.
Never bypass or disable safety interlocks.
Ensure the workpiece is securely clamped before running any probing cycles.
Verify the probe is properly mounted and secured to the machine spindle or probe head.
Causes and Fixes
1
Check G31 Block Syntax
Examine the G31 line for proper F-word specification. Ensure feedrate is present and within 0.1-500 IPM range typical for probing operations.
2
Verify Modal Feedrate State
Press CURRENT COMMANDS to view active modal states. If no F-word exists in current block, ensure previous block established valid feedrate modal condition.
3
Test with Explicit Feedrate
Modify G31 block to include explicit feedrate: 'G31 Z-2.0 F10.0' and re-run to confirm parameter validation passes.
Use Setting 44 (Max Probe Feed Rate) to verify your programmed feedrate doesn't exceed machine limits.
1
Verify Parameter 6 Setting
Navigate to SETTING > PARAMETERS and check Parameter 6 (Probe Input). Typical values are 1-8 corresponding to input terminals. Ensure it matches your probe wiring.
2
Test Probe Signal Circuit
Go to DIAGNOSTICS > INPUTS and manually trigger probe. Verify the input number matching Parameter 6 changes state when probe tip contacts surface.
3
Check Probe Wiring Continuity
With machine power off, verify probe cable continuity from probe tip through to control input terminal specified in Parameter 6.
Always power down machine before checking probe wiring connections.
1
Verify Axis Movement Specification
Ensure G31 block contains at least one axis letter (X, Y, Z) with numeric destination: 'G31 Z-1.0 F5.0' rather than just 'G31 F5.0'.
2
Check Coordinate System Validity
Press OFFSET/SETTING > WORK COORDINATE to verify active coordinate system (G54-G59) has valid offsets that don't create impossible machine positions.
3
Validate Travel Limits
Calculate final probe destination considering work offsets and tool length. Ensure movement stays within soft limits defined in Parameters 140-145 (axis travel limits).
Use DRO position display to verify current position plus programmed move doesn't exceed machine envelope.
1
Review Macro Variable Assignments
Check program for proper macro variable initialization before probing calls. Common variables like #135 (probe result) must be cleared or properly set.
2
Verify Canned Cycle Parameters
If using G65 macro calls for probing, ensure all required P, Q, R parameters are specified with valid numeric values within expected ranges.
3
Test with Simplified Probe Move
Replace complex macro-driven probe with basic G31 move to isolate whether issue is in macro logic or fundamental probe setup.
Use EDIT > SEARCH to find all macro variable references (#nnn) and verify each has proper initialization.
DIY Feasiblehigh confidence
Call a technician if:
·Probe hardware failure suspected
·Parameter corruption requiring factory reset
·Macro programming beyond operator skill level
Prevention
Always include explicit feedrate in G31 blocks
Verify probe input signal before running programs
Test probe cycles in single block mode first
Maintain consistent macro variable initialization
Common Mistakes
Forgetting feedrate specification in G31
Using wrong probe input parameter number
Programming probe moves without axis destinations
Not initializing macro variables before probing routines