Yaskawa GA800 A.103 — What It Means
The code A.103 does not appear in Yaskawa GA800 manufacturer documentation as a recognized fault or alarm code. The GA800 uses a specific fault code format, and A1-03 is a setup parameter used for initialization and reset procedures, not a fault condition. If your drive is displaying something that looks like A.103, you may be reading a parameter reference, a misread display, or a code from a different drive series. Yaskawa emphasizes confirming the exact code shown on the keypad display and matching it to the fault table in your drive’s manual before beginning troubleshooting.
Before attempting any reset or repair, identify the full exact code string from the drive display. Yaskawa’s reset procedure requires removing the root cause of any fault or alarm first, then pressing the RESET button on the keypad while the code is still displayed. Do not perform withstand voltage tests or megger tests on the drive itself, as this can damage internal components. If the drive has tripped a GFCI or blown a fuse, do not immediately re-energize until the underlying fault condition is identified and corrected.
Before You Replace Anything
Technicians sometimes replace control boards or power sections without confirming the exact fault code first. Always verify the displayed code against the GA800 fault table and inspect wiring and peripheral connections before ordering parts.
Common Causes
- Misread or misinterpreted display (~40%) The code shown may be a parameter number (A1-03) rather than a fault, or the display may be partially obscured or damaged.
- Wrong drive manual or series (~25%) The code format may belong to a different Yaskawa drive series, leading to confusion when cross-referencing fault tables.
- Communication or reference signal issue (~20%) If the display is showing a parameter reference, the drive may be prompting for a setup step or detecting a missing input signal.
- Display module fault (~15%) A failing keypad or display module can show garbled or incomplete codes that do not match the fault table.
Quick Diagnosis
Answer these to narrow it down fast.
Does the display show a full fault code with text description (not just numbers)?
No: You may be looking at a parameter number or a partial display. Power-cycle the drive and observe what appears during startup.
Is the drive running normally despite the display?
No: The drive is faulted or locked out. Confirm the exact fault code from the display and match it to the manual before troubleshooting.
Has the drive recently had parameter changes or a reset attempt?
No: Verify the code is not from a different Yaskawa drive series or a communication device on the same network.
Step-by-Step Fix
- Power down the drive safely and lock out the main disconnect to prevent accidental energization during inspection.
- Photograph the keypad display showing the exact code, including any text description or additional characters, so you have a clear reference.
- Locate the GA800 manual for your specific drive model and compare the displayed code to the fault and alarm code table in the troubleshooting section.
- Check parameter A1-03 in the parameter list. If the display shows A1-03, you are viewing a parameter reference, not a fault. Consult the manual for the function of that parameter.
- Inspect all control wiring and communication cables for loose connections, damaged insulation, or incorrect termination, especially if the issue involves missing reference signals.
- Press the RESET button on the keypad only after confirming and removing the root cause of any actual fault condition displayed.
- Do not megger or apply high-voltage insulation tests to the drive. If power-device damage is suspected, follow Yaskawa’s permitted diagnostic procedures or contact a qualified service center.
Parts Often Needed
| Part | Notes |
|---|---|
| Yaskawa GA800 keypad / display module | Amazon | Replacement if display is damaged or showing garbled codes; confirm part number for your drive frame size. |
| Yaskawa GA800 control board | Amazon | Only replace if fault diagnosis confirms control board failure; not a first-step part. |
When to Call a Pro
Call a qualified VFD technician or Yaskawa-authorized service provider if you cannot identify the exact fault code from the display, if the drive has tripped a GFCI or blown fuses repeatedly, or if you suspect damage to power devices or the control board. VFD troubleshooting requires understanding of high-voltage DC bus circuits, parameter programming, and proper use of isolation and lockout procedures. Do not attempt repairs that involve opening the drive enclosure, testing internal components, or performing insulation resistance tests unless you are trained and equipped for high-voltage work. A technician will confirm the actual fault code, use the correct Yaskawa diagnostic procedures, and replace only the components that have failed, avoiding unnecessary parts replacement.
Rough cost: A pro service call runs about $200-600.