231-8830

Access encoder alignment menu

Navigate to MOD > Settings > Machine > Encoder and select the affected axis encoder configuration.

Ensure machine is in a safe position before starting alignment

Execute field angle learning

Select 'Learn field angle' function and follow TNC prompts to perform automatic motor alignment sequence.

Motor will move during this procedure - ensure axis is clear of obstructions

Verify alignment completion

Check that field angle value is populated in encoder parameters and alarm clears after cycle completion.

Document the learned field angle value for future reference

Test axis movement

Perform controlled axis movements to verify proper encoder feedback and positioning accuracy.

Start with slow feed rates to verify correct direction and response

Check encoder memory status

Access Diagnostics > Encoder > EnDat Status to verify encoder memory integrity and field angle validity flags.

Look for memory error flags or invalid data indicators in EnDat status

Clear encoder memory errors

Use EnDat memory reset function if available, or power cycle the encoder through axis drive disable/enable sequence.

Memory reset will require complete re-alignment of encoder

Reinitialize encoder parameters

Navigate to machine parameters for the affected axis and verify EnDat encoder configuration matches physical installation.

Compare encoder serial number in parameters with physical encoder label

Perform complete encoder alignment

Execute full encoder learning sequence including field angle determination and offset calibration.

This process may take several minutes and requires unobstructed axis movement

Inspect encoder coupling

Visually examine encoder-to-motor shaft coupling for looseness, damage, or misalignment indicators.

Ensure power is off and axis is mechanically locked before inspection

Check coupling torque

Verify encoder coupling is properly tightened to manufacturer specifications, typically 2-4 Nm for standard couplings.

Use proper torque wrench to avoid over-tightening and encoder damage

Verify shaft alignment

Check concentricity and angular alignment between motor shaft and encoder using dial indicator if necessary.

Maximum allowable misalignment is typically 0.1mm radial and 1° angular

Re-attempt field angle learning

After correcting mechanical issues, repeat the TNC encoder alignment procedure to establish proper field angle.

Multiple failed attempts may indicate persistent mechanical problems

Check EnDat signal quality

Access TNC diagnostics and monitor EnDat communication status, error counters, and signal strength indicators.

Look for intermittent communication errors or degraded signal quality warnings

Inspect encoder cable

Examine EnDat encoder cable for damage, proper shielding connection, and secure connector engagement at both ends.

Handle encoder cables carefully to avoid damaging delicate signal conductors

Verify cable routing

Ensure EnDat cable is routed away from power cables and potential EMI sources, with proper cable management.

Maintain minimum 10cm separation from motor power cables and use shielded cable trays

Test with known good cable

Temporarily substitute encoder cable with verified good cable to isolate communication issues.

Keep spare EnDat cables of appropriate length for troubleshooting purposes

Check drive status indicators

Examine servo drive LED indicators and access drive diagnostics through TNC to identify EnDat interface faults.

Document all error codes and status indicators before proceeding

Verify drive parameters

Check servo drive EnDat configuration parameters match encoder specifications including resolution and interface type.

Incorrect parameters can damage encoder or drive interface

Test encoder on different axis

If possible, connect encoder to different servo drive to isolate drive interface problems from encoder issues.

This test requires identical drive types and proper parameter configuration

Contact drive manufacturer support

If drive interface failure is confirmed, contact servo drive manufacturer for repair or replacement procedures.

Drive repairs typically require factory service and recalibration