ENCODER ERROR

[dwade]

I've got a MicroVal PFx 4-5-4 running 3.7mr1 and the operators ran into an error message last nite. "TR_GEB_Y.ERROR AT ENCODER SIGNAL Y-AXIS" I've cleaned the scales and would like to know what else I can check before calling service.

TIA
Duane

[craiger_ny]

Does it happen in the same place everytime? The worst case scenario would be something is scratched or damaged either the encoder or scale (absolute worst case would be the scale). Best case scenario is it is the encoder and it needs to be changed. Luckily they are cheap and can be replaced by you in most cases without needing to tune the scale (I keep an extra on hand). I'd do it myself if I were you, it will be cheaper and you'll be up and running faster. If it needs to be tuned then it won't count and you'll get errors but it is not like it is something you are going to botch up and ruin the accuracy as a result. Just power down when you do it to avoid electrical damage.

Craig

[dwade]

It's running. I did not know how sensitve the encoder was in regards to the mounting but got down and looked at and saw how it was mounted with what appears to shim material. Pulled it away and cleaned the encoder with a swab, re-booted the CMM and she is off and running.

[craiger_ny]

It sounds like the spring type of retention deal for the encoder. In that case it is likely to be glass on glass (no gap). That will probably keep it aligned and be repeatable from encoder to encoder which is good news for you. What you might be seeing is an encoder on it's way, or maybe just dirt. You did the right thing cleaning first. I'd consider keeping one on hand. It is as easy to replace as what you just did to clean it so don't be afraid.

Craig

[dwade]

It's dead again. I took an encoder from one of our PFx's and it still doesn't want to run. It'll run then die with the same error as before.

Oh well.... service has been called.

Thanks for the help.