Indramat Ecodrive Error F234

What Is Error F234 on an Indramat Ecodrive?

Error F234 on a Bosch Rexroth Indramat DKC Ecodrive indicates the detection of an emergency stop (E-Stop) condition. This error occurs when the drive receives a stop signal from its digital input, typically triggered by:

• A pressed E-Stop button on the machine

• A tripped safety relay or safety controller

• A loss of input signal to the digital control circuit

This is not just a warning or minor fault—F234 is a safety-critical error. The system is telling you that motion must stop immediately to prevent injury or damage.

What Triggers an F234 Error?

There are several common causes that can activate an F234 fault condition:

The drive logic monitors the digital input (usually DI07 or a configured input for E-Stop). If the signal drops unexpectedly or remains in a low state longer than allowed, the drive triggers F234 and brings the system to a stop.

Error F234 Message Description (from Bosch Rexroth Manuals)

F234 - Emergency Stop Active
The emergency stop input (e.g., DI07) is not high when required during operation. Drive disables output to motor. Immediate stop condition.

Severity: High (motion is halted)
Reset Required: Yes – after correcting the fault condition
Action: Diagnose and clear E-Stop condition before restarting

How to Clear Error F234

Here’s a step-by-step guide to addressing and clearing the F234 fault:

 Step 1: Check the E-Stop Button

Ensure that all E-Stop buttons on the equipment are disengaged. Physically inspect all buttons and switches to confirm they have returned to their normal operating position.

 Step 2: Inspect the Digital Input Wiring

Check the wiring on DI07 (or other configured E-Stop input). Look for:

• Loose or disconnected wires

• Faulty connectors

• Broken terminals

• Incorrect voltage levels

 Step 3: Confirm Safety Relay Function

If your E-Stop is wired through a safety relay (e.g., Pilz or Guardmaster), verify that the relay is functioning properly. A fault in the safety relay will prevent the drive from receiving the proper “OK” signal.

 Step 4: Verify Parameter Configuration

Using DriveTop software or manual parameter access:

• Check which digital input is assigned for E-Stop functionality

• Confirm correct logic level (e.g., high = active or low = active)

• Make sure debounce settings and timing parameters aren’t too aggressive

 Step 5: Power Cycle the Drive

Once the issue has been resolved:

1. Turn off power to the drive

2. Wait 30 seconds

3. Restore power and confirm that the error clears from the display

In most cases, this will reset the drive. If not, proceed to Step 6.

 Step 6: Manual Reset

Use the reset input or DriveTop software to issue a manual reset. Alternatively, this can be done through a control panel HMI if configured.

Preventing F234 Errors in the Future

To minimize the recurrence of Error F234:

•  Ensure clean, shielded wiring for E-Stop inputs

•  Maintain proper grounding to avoid electrical noise

•  Regularly test E-Stop functionality as part of PM (Preventive Maintenance)

•  Use properly rated safety relays and validate them during commissioning

•  Clearly label all safety circuit wiring and document system configuration

For more information , contact PLG Automation:Email: sales@plgautomation.comPhone: 800-906-9271