
axismd.ai
Siemens SINUMERIK Controller
Servo/Axis · Intermediate · 30-120 minutes
Siemens 840D 8038 - Option 'activation of more than lead link axes' not set
Alarm 8038 fires when the configured number of lead link axes in MD $MA_AXCONF_ASSIGN_MASTER_NCU exceeds the licensed option limit for simultaneous lead link axis activation. The NCK detects a mismatch between the physical axis configuration and the software option licensing during system initialization.
Siemens 840D 8038 - Option 'activation of more than lead link axes' not set
Option 'activation of more than lead link axes' not set
Siemens SINUMERIK alarm 8038: Option 'activation of more than lead link axes' not set. This alarm indicates a fault or error condition on the SINUMERIK 840D control. Refer to the Siemens SINUMERIK alarm documentation for the complete description and remedy.
Root Cause Summary
Alarm 8038 fires when the configured number of lead link axes in MD $MA_AXCONF_ASSIGN_MASTER_NCU exceeds the licensed option limit for simultaneous lead link axis activation. The NCK detects a mismatch between the physical axis configuration and the software option licensing during system initialization.
Safety
Causes and Fixes
Access Siemens HMI menu: Diagnostics > Parameters > Machine Data. Navigate to MD $MA_AXCONF_ASSIGN_MASTER_NCU and count the number of axes assigned non-zero master axis references (values 1-31).
Check the active software option license via HMI: Diagnostics > System Information > Software Options. Locate the 'Lead Link Axes' or 'Synchronized Axes' option and verify the maximum permitted count (e.g., 'up to 4 lead link axes').
If configured count exceeds licensed limit, either reduce the number of axes assigned in MD $MA_AXCONF_ASSIGN_MASTER_NCU by setting excess axes to master value '0' (standalone), or upgrade the SINUMERIK software option license.
Do not arbitrarily change axis master assignments without verifying machine kinematics and control logic requirements.
After modification, perform a warm restart (Ctrl+Shift+Del or via HMI System > Restart) to reload machine data and re-validate the NCK configuration.
Seeing Multiple Alarms?
Seeing another alarm with this one? Enter the code.
AxisMD logs alarms against your actual machines, tracks patterns, and gives AI context your manual doesn't have.
Start freeWas this guide helpful?
Always verify with your machine manual or a certified technician before performing service procedures.