It has been some time since I last worked with Fanuc robots, but now I am faced with the task of backing up the system. While I successfully performed the "All of Above" backup using a USB stick, I encountered an issue with the image backup process. The robot model is a Fanuc R-30iA V7.4 (manufactured in 2008), and I am using a 4GB USB thumb drive formatted with FAT32. Despite the successful AoA backup, the image backup seems to get stuck on the Boot Loader Screen during "Initializing USB". I am considering using a Memory Card as an alternative solution. Additionally, I have come across the option of performing an image backup through Ethernet and would appreciate any guidance on this method. Any assistance in solving this issue would be greatly appreciated. In case anyone finds themselves in a similar predicament, I discovered a workaround by turning off the power, removing the USB stick, then restarting the device while holding F1 and F5 to access the BMON menu. By navigating to the Configuration menu and selecting Hot Start, I was able to confirm that all programs remained intact.
The appearance of the message "Initializing USB" while performing an image backup raises concerns. Consider using a smaller USB stick to resolve the issue. It is important to note that the AOA backup does not include ASCII files. To ensure these files are backed up, proceed to the next step and select "BACKUP 2" to obtain the ASCII programs. This way, you will have the LS files of your TP programs securely stored.
In a last-ditch effort, I attempted to format the 4GB USB stick to FAT16 just like throwing a "hail mary" pass. Surprisingly, I was successful in performing the AOA backup, but encountered issues with the image backup (yielding the same outcome). It has been quite some time since I last executed these tasks. Could I be overlooking a crucial step? Is it necessary to be in Cold Start or Controlled Start mode? Perhaps I need to adjust a setting to proceed?
In the past, I have encountered issues with USB sticks of certain sizes on R30iA controllers. To avoid compatibility problems, I always keep both a 512MB and a 2GB stick on hand. I have also utilized smaller CompactFlash cards with a PCMCIA adapter, as they are more readily available and cost-effective than PCMCIA cards of varying sizes. You may want to try formatting the USB stick to a smaller size, such as 2GB, to see if it resolves the issue. For a step-by-step guide on how to do this, visit this link. I hope this information proves helpful in resolving any compatibility issues.
To enhance your data storage options, consider using the compact USB drive. Access the controlled start menu to explore the possibility of conducting an image backup. Keep in mind that the image backup feature in the backup menu is a relatively new addition.
I experimented with "resizing" the USB drive as you advised. I successfully reduced it to 512MB and reformatted it to FAT. Unfortunately, I encountered the same issue despite these changes. I discovered in the controller manual a warning against using a USB drive for image backups at BMON. However, the manual also provides instructions on how to perform an image backup using a USB drive. At this stage, it seems like there may be a problem with the robot controller, leaving the only feasible solution to use a PCMCIA card.
It sounds like you've already done some thorough troubleshooting! As for creating an image backup through Ethernet, you'll need a crossover cable and a PC setup with appropriate software, such as the FANUC PC File Services software which is intended for this purpose. It is also worth checking your USB drive in detail; although it’s 4GB and FAT32, ensure that it doesn't contain hidden partitions that might cause the backup process to hang. You may want to try another USB, preferably one that is as simple and basic as possible. Lastly, if you decide to use a Memory Card, you need minimum functionality available in your robot system. You might need the latest software version and some optional parts to execute the backup. Keep us posted on your progress!
I've encountered a similar issue with the Fanuc R-30iA series before and it sounds like you're on the right track troubleshooting-wise. Hot Start is indeed a lifesaver! As for the ethernet method, you need an FTP server set up for that option. I personally prefer FTP because it's more reliable as compared to a USB backup, and the process is not too complicated either. Check your robot's manual to find the necessary IP settings and port numbers. If everything is set correctly, you should be able to pull the files directly from the robot’s controller over your network. As a side note, using a Memory Card could be a viable option as well, just remember that Fanuc prefers CF cards and it needs to be formatted in FAT32 like your USB stick. Good luck!
Sounds like you've been having a bit of an adventure with this backup process! I too have encountered similar issues with Fanuc robots before. Good work on improvising a solution with the BMON menu, that's a reliable method for confirming the intact programs. When it comes to doing an image backup through Ethernet, you will need a crossover cable to connect your robot controller to your PC. Then, use the FTP client on your computer to connect to the robot controller's FTP server. This can be tricky if you don't have any experience, but there are plenty of detailed guides online. Finally, regarding your Memory Card consideration, do not ignore the compatibility issue. Some older robots may not support high-capacity memory cards. A smaller 2GB card could be a safer bet, just my two cents. Good luck with your endeavor!
It's a challenging problem you're facing, but it seems like you're on the right track with your troubleshooting. You mentioned the Ethernet option for an image backup; that might well serve as a reliable alternative. Just ensure your robot and computer are on the same network, then you can use the FTP method to back up and retrieve the files. As for using a memory card, that could also work, but be sure to check the compatibility with your Fanuc R-30iA. The issue with the USB initialization could be due to the drive's size or type, so you might want to try a different one. Lastly, it is worth checking for any firmware updates available for your model; there could be some improvements relating to USB performance. Your workaround is a clever solution and would surely help someone in a similar situation. Keep us updated on your progress!
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Answer: Answer: The issue could be related to the USB thumb drive compatibility or formatting. Ensure that the USB stick meets the necessary requirements and try alternative solutions like using a Memory Card or performing the backup through Ethernet.
Answer: Answer: One workaround is to turn off the power, remove the USB stick, then restart the device while holding F1 and F5 to access the BMON menu. From there, navigate to the Configuration menu and select Hot Start to confirm program integrity.
Answer: Answer: Yes, there is an option to perform image backups through Ethernet. You can explore this alternative method for backing up your system.
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