Troubleshooting 4-20mA Output Signal Drive Issue with Powerflex 753 Ao

Question:

Experiencing a problem with a 4-20mA output signal drive connecting to a PLC, as it is only outputting 14-15mA instead of the expected rate at 60Hz. It is suspected that the scale may have been altered. The drive has an additional I/O module on port 4, but accessing its parameters through the HMI has proven difficult. Would connecting to a laptop with specialized software be necessary to adjust these settings? Thank you for your assistance in advance.

Top Replies

If you are looking to access all parameters for the 20-HIM-A3, simply follow these steps: Press and release the ALT key, then press and release the parameter key before entering the specific parameter number you need.

I am unable to locate the PN's on the board, please refer to the attached document for more information.

The 20-HIM-A3 keypad can be easily installed on the drive or cabinet door, providing convenient access and control.

DarrylR inquired about the availability of the 20-HIM-A3 keypad, which allows for viewing all parameters. To access the parameters, simply press and release the ALT key, followed by the parameter key, and then enter the parameter number. The 20-HIM-A3 keypad can be installed on the front of the drive or the cabinet door. However, it is important to note that the HMI will only display parameters for port 00, as all DIs, DOs, AOs, and AIs are programmed to port 4.

Configure analog output settings for Drive Port 0 by adjusting Parameters 270 to 282. Parameter 280 allows you to set the high output, Parameter 281 sets the low output, and Parameter 282 displays the current output level (read-only).

It sounds like you've got a somewhat tricky situation on your hands. A 14-15mA output is indeed quite low for a 60Hz signal, suggesting issues possibly beyond just a simple alteration of the scale. As to whether you might need specialized software on a laptop to adjust settings, that could indeed be a beneficial step to take. However, before you go that route, check the fieldbus settings or DIP-switch, as you might just be faced with communication problems between the I/O module and the HMI. Also, ensure your load resistance is properly set up. This can cause problems with your current output if not correctly calculated. I hope this points you in the right direction.

It definitely seems like a calibration issue to me. Accessing parameters via HMI can indeed be tricky. Using a laptop with specialized software often simplifies these tasks, making it easy to adjust settings, so it's worth a try. Don't forget, though, to cross-check the source voltage which is driving the signal. Sometimes, a too low or too high source voltage can also cause an anomaly. If you've any on-field technician, you may consider taking their help too before directly jumping to software adjustment. Good luck!

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

FAQ: 1. Why is my 4-20mA output signal drive only outputting 14-15mA instead of the expected rate?

Answer: Answer: The issue could be due to a potential alteration in the scale settings of the drive.

FAQ: 2. How can I access and adjust the parameters of the additional I/O module on port 4 of the drive?

Answer: Answer: If accessing the parameters through the HMI is proving difficult, connecting to a laptop with specialized software might be necessary for adjusting these settings.

FAQ: 3. What steps can I take to troubleshoot the 4-20mA output signal drive issue with a Powerflex 753 Ao?

Answer: Answer: It is recommended to check the scale settings, consider using specialized software on a laptop for parameter adjustments, and ensure all connections are secure and properly configured.

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