F00090

Encoder feedback loss

Siemens · SINAMICS G120

What does F00090 mean?

The drive has lost feedback from the encoder, which is critical for precise speed and position control. This can be caused by physical disconnections, a faulty encoder, incorrect parameter settings (like p0400 or p1300), or the encoder signal being outside expected limits, leading to uncontrolled motor operation or a complete shutdown.

Common Causes

  • Encoder cable damage (e.g., broken wires, severed shield, loose connector X21) causing signal interruption or short circuits.
  • Faulty encoder unit (e.g., internal sensor failure, bearing damage) not generating accurate pulses or no pulses at all.
  • Incorrect encoder type selection (P0400, P0404) or number of pulses configured (P0408) in the drive parameters for the installed encoder.
  • Poor signal quality due to electromagnetic interference (EMI) on the encoder cable, especially with unshielded or improperly grounded cables.
  • Loose encoder mounting or excessive vibration causing physical misalignment of the encoder disk or sensor.
  • Faulty drive encoder interface card or input port (e.g., X21 terminals).

Repair Steps & Checklist

Click steps to track your progress.

  1. 1

    1. Power down the drive, then inspect the encoder cable for physical damage and ensure secure connections at both the encoder and drive terminals (e.g., X21).

  2. 2

    2. Verify encoder parameters P0400 (Encoder type), P0404 (Encoder supply voltage), and P0408 (Pulses per revolution) match the installed encoder's specifications.

  3. 3

    3. Use an oscilloscope to check the encoder A/B/Z phase signals directly at the encoder output and at the drive input terminals (e.g., X21) for pulse presence and quality.

  4. 4

    4. Measure the encoder supply voltage (e.g., 5VDC or 24VDC) at the encoder connector to ensure it is within specified limits.

  5. 5

    5. Ensure the encoder cable shield is properly grounded at the drive's designated grounding point (e.g., terminal 19 on X21).

  6. 6

    6. If possible, test with a known good encoder or perform a basic encoder check using the drive's diagnostic functions (e.g., P0491 for encoder status).

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Verified technical data. Last updated: March 2026

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