SCM Tech Z25 - PLC138 error

[CitizenOfDreams]

I got a strange problem with my SCM Tech Z25.

The operator complained about occasional PLC138 errors. He restarted the machine and it worked fine again - till the next time.

Then the problem got worse. The machine starts, everything works, but after 2-3 minutes it throws PLC138 again. I restart the machine, it works for another 2-3 minutes and throws the same error.

The error description in the book reads: "RS-232 time out. Communications problem between NC and driver. CAUSE: connecting cable broken. SOLUTION: check the connecting cable."

I assume we are talking about the RS-232 cable between the PC and the NC? I checked the cable, it works fine (I got echo in Hyperterminal). What could it be?

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[dmitry83]

Could be the remote control or safety module

[CitizenOfDreams]

The remote pendant seems to be working - you can start calibration and move all the axes with it.

The safety module meaning the Pilz safety relay? Why would the error mention RS-232 then?

[CitizenOfDreams]

Problem solved, it was the cable to the pendant.

Are SCM error messages intentionally misleading? For job security or something?
"RS-232 timeout" - it is not RS-232, it's RS-422.
"between NC and driver" - it is not between NC and driver (whatever they meant by "driver"), it is between NC and pendant.