Heidenhain codes
HeidenhainServo/AxisIntermediate30-120 minutes

231-4290

Heidenhain 231-4290 - 4290 Drive switch-off (inactive RDY signal) in axis

4290 Drive switch-off (inactive RDY signal) in axis

This alarm indicates that the drive amplifier for the specified axis has lost its ready (RDY) signal while the TNC control was expecting the drive to be operational. The RDY signal is part of the digital interface between the Heidenhain TNC and the servo amplifier, confirming that the drive is powered, initialized, and ready to accept motion commands. Loss of this signal causes an immediate axis disable and machine stop.

Root Cause Summary

The RDY signal from the servo amplifier to the TNC has been lost, indicating the drive has transitioned from operational to non-ready state. This is typically caused by an internal drive fault, loss of enabling conditions (safety circuits, 24V supply), or a wiring/connection issue in the digital interface between the TNC and the drive amplifier. The TNC monitors this signal continuously during operation and generates alarm 4290 immediately upon detecting the inactive RDY condition.

Safety

  • Refer to Heidenhain service manual
  • Ensure qualified technician performs repairs

Causes and Fixes

  1. 1

    Check Drive Amplifier Status Display

    Inspect the LED indicators or display on the servo amplifier for the affected axis. Most Heidenhain-compatible drives (such as Rexroth IndraDrive, Siemens, etc.) will show a specific fault code. Document the error code displayed on the drive.

    Do not attempt to clear drive faults without identifying the root cause - repeated faults can cause permanent drive damage.

  2. 2

    Verify Drive Power Supply

    Measure the DC bus voltage at the drive amplifier power terminals. Verify it is within specification (typically 565-590V DC for 3-phase input). Check for DC bus ripple or instability that could cause undervoltage/overvoltage trips.

    High voltage present - use appropriate PPE and test equipment rated for DC bus voltage measurements.

  3. 3

    Check Motor Temperature and Connections

    Verify the motor temperature sensor feedback (KTY84 or similar) is correctly connected to the drive. Check motor temperature in the drive's diagnostic menu. Loose motor power connections can cause overcurrent faults.

    On TNC systems with EnDat encoders, check that the encoder temperature monitoring is also functional - encoder overtemperature can cause drive shutdowns.

  4. 4

    Reset Drive and Monitor

    After resolving any identified fault condition, reset the drive amplifier using its reset input or control panel. From the TNC, acknowledge the alarm and attempt a reference run. Monitor whether the fault recurs immediately or during motion.

    Use MOD/System Configuration/Axis Status to monitor real-time current demand during test moves - recurring faults at consistent current levels indicate mechanical binding or motor issues.

DIY Feasiblehigh confidence

Call a technician if:

  • ·Drive amplifier hardware failure confirmed
  • ·Multiple axes affected simultaneously
  • ·CAN bus network-wide communication failure

Prevention

  • Regular encoder cable inspection and replacement
  • Maintain stable 24V power supply with UPS backup
  • Periodic CAN bus termination resistance verification
  • Monitor drive temperature and ensure adequate cooling

Common Mistakes

  • Ignoring intermittent RDY signal loss
  • Replacing drives without checking power supply quality
  • Overlooking encoder cable shield grounding
  • Modifying CAN parameters without understanding network topology

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