KUKA Robot codes
KUKA RobotSystemBasic

KRC0173

KUKA Robot KRC0173 - CAN CONTROLLER @P1@ FAILURE

CAN CONTROLLER @P1@ FAILURE

This alarm indicates a failure in the CAN (Controller Area Network) bus controller at the specified parameter position @P1@, which communicates between the KRC controller and peripheral devices such as axis drives, I/O modules, or safety controllers. The CAN controller has detected a fault condition that prevents proper communication on the network, halting robot operation to prevent unsafe behavior. This is a critical hardware or communication fault that requires immediate diagnosis.

Common Causes

  • Defective CAN controller module or hardware failure on the main controller board
  • Loose or damaged CAN bus cable connections between controller and drives/peripherals
  • CAN bus termination resistor failure or incorrect termination configuration
  • Corrupted firmware or software configuration in the KRC controller
  • Electrical interference or short circuit on the CAN bus line

Troubleshooting Steps

  1. 1Power cycle the KRC controller completely (minimum 10 seconds off) to reset the CAN controller hardware
  2. 2Visually inspect all CAN bus cable connections at both the controller and peripheral device ends for loose connectors or physical damage
  3. 3Verify CAN bus termination resistors (typically 120Ω) are properly installed at both ends of the CAN network using a multimeter
  4. 4Check the robot project configuration in WorkVisual or KRC software to ensure CAN parameters and node IDs are correctly configured for the specific parameter position
  5. 5Use KUKA diagnostic tools or system status display to identify which specific CAN node is failing and review its error logs
  6. 6If hardware failure is confirmed, replace the defective CAN controller module or contact KUKA service for main controller board 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.