Yaskawa GA800 E46 Fault Code — What It Means
The E46 code on a Yaskawa GA800 variable frequency drive is a fault or alarm indicator. The specific meaning of E46 must be verified in your drive’s official fault code table, as Yaskawa fault codes vary by model and firmware version. The GA800 manual provides a complete fault code reference that matches each numeric code to a specific electrical, communication, or parameter condition. Once you identify the exact definition from your manual, you can use the drive’s troubleshooting information and elementary diagram to trace the problem logically.
Yaskawa troubleshooting procedures emphasize collecting your drive’s full model number, specification number, serial number, and failure information before deeper diagnosis. Review any modified parameters or recent parameter changes, as incorrect settings can trigger fault conditions. The drive display will show the fault code along with additional diagnostic data that helps narrow the cause.
Before You Replace Anything
Technicians sometimes replace the control board or power module before checking parameter settings and wiring connections. Always verify the exact fault definition in the manual and inspect modified parameters first.
Common Causes
- Incorrect parameter setting A modified drive parameter may conflict with your motor or application, triggering a protective fault.
- Wiring or connection issue Loose, damaged, or miswired control or power connections can generate fault codes during operation.
- External signal or communication problem A fault in the control signal input, network communication, or feedback device can cause the drive to alarm.
- Motor or load condition An overload, mechanical bind, or motor issue may push the drive outside its operating envelope and trip a fault.
- Drive hardware failure Internal sensor, power stage, or control circuit failures can generate fault codes requiring component replacement.
Quick Diagnosis
Answer these to narrow it down fast.
Does the drive display the fault immediately on power-up, before any run command?
No: The fault appears during operation, suggesting a load condition, external signal issue, or intermittent wiring problem. Monitor drive status and check motor and control wiring under load.
Have any drive parameters been changed recently?
No: Focus on hardware checks: inspect all control and power wiring, verify input signals, and test motor insulation and load condition.
Can you clear the fault and does it return immediately or only under load?
No: If the fault cannot be cleared or the drive will not reset, internal drive failure or a critical parameter lockout is likely. Contact Yaskawa support with your full model and serial number.
Step-by-Step Fix
- Locate the fault code table in your GA800 manual or on the drive’s label and confirm the exact definition of E46 for your model and firmware version.
- Record your drive information including the full model number, spec number, serial number, and the complete fault message displayed on the keypad or HMI.
- Review modified parameters by accessing the drive’s parameter history or comparing current settings to the factory default list in the manual.
- Inspect all wiring and connections at the drive’s control terminals, power terminals, and any external devices such as encoders, PLC interfaces, or communication modules.
- Clear the fault using the drive keypad or control input and observe whether it returns immediately, during acceleration, or under load.
- Consult the troubleshooting section of the GA800 manual that corresponds to your confirmed fault definition, following the diagnostic flowchart and elementary diagram.
- Contact Yaskawa technical support with your drive information and diagnostic findings if the fault persists or if the manual directs you to factory service.
Parts Often Needed
| Part | Notes |
|---|---|
| Yaskawa GA800 control board | Amazon | Order by exact model and serial number if internal control circuit failure is confirmed. |
| Yaskawa GA800 power module | Amazon | Required only if power stage fault is diagnosed by Yaskawa support or an authorized technician. |
When to Call a Pro
Call a qualified industrial electrician or Yaskawa-certified technician if the fault definition involves high-voltage power circuits, internal drive hardware, or if you are not trained in VFD troubleshooting. Variable frequency drives operate at dangerous voltages and require specialized test equipment and knowledge of motor control. Always call a professional if the fault persists after parameter checks and wiring inspections, if you lack the drive manual or training, or if the drive will not clear the fault. Yaskawa provides technical support to help diagnose faults and can recommend authorized service centers for repair or component replacement.
Rough cost: A pro service call runs about $200-800 depending on diagnosis time and parts.