| Parameter | Description | | :--------- | :------------------------------ | | P0000 | Number of axes | | P0001 | Spindle settings (e.g., number of spindles, spindle type) | | P0002 | Feed rate settings (e.g., rapid traverse rate, cutting feed rate) |
The Fanuc 11M parameter list consists of several types:
Representative parameters:
When your Fanuc 11M alarms, the parameter list is often the cure.
Alarm 401 – Servo Alarm (VRDY off)
Alarm 510 / 511 – Over Travel (Soft limit)
Alarm 000 – Power off/Power on required
Alarm 910 – DRAM Parity (System Error)
The 11M uses a 4-digit or 5-digit parameter numbering system (typically 0000 to 9199, depending on options).
| Parameter Range | Category | Description | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | 0000 – 0059 | Option Parameters (NC) | Enables live tooling, rigid tapping, custom macros, DNC, etc. | | 0060 – 0089 | Axis Configuration | Stroke limits, axis direction, mirror image. | | 0090 – 0109 | Feedrate & Acceleration | Rapid traverse (G00), cutting feedrate limits (G01). | | 0110 – 0139 | Servo & Motor Parameters | Position loop gain, feedforward coefficient, backlash compensation. | | 0140 – 0159 | Reference Point | Grid shift, reference return direction, deceleration points. | | 0160 – 0199 | Spindle Parameters | Gear ratios, C-axis control, orientation stop position. | | 0200 – 0239 | Coordinate System | Absolute/incremental, diameter programming, I/J/K specifications. | | 0240 – 0259 | Tool Offset | Number of tool offsets, length/radius type, wear compensation. | | 0260 – 0299 | Automatic Operation | Single block, dry run, feed hold behavior. | | 0300 – 0319 | Editor & Program | Tape coding (ISO/EIA), punch code, program number lock. | | 0320 – 0359 | Communication (RS-232) | Baud rate, stop bits, parity, DC code control (Xon/Xoff). | | 0360 – 0399 | Diagnostic Parameters | Self-diagnostic thresholds, watchdog timers. | | 0400 – 0429 | Pitch Error Compensation | Compensation points per axis, interval, direction. | | 0430 – 0549 | SERVO PARAMETERS (Critical) | Requires IPL mode to change. (Motor model, current limit, velocity gain, PWM frequency). | | 0900 – 0939 | Option Parameters (High Security) | Hideable via parameter 10.4. Control software options. | | 5000 – 9199 | Macro & Customization | User macro variables, arguments, and local variables. |
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The Fanuc 11M control system uses a wide range of parameters to define machine behavior, axis limits, and communication settings. Managing these requires enabling Parameter Write Enable (PWE) first. How to Enable Parameter Writing
Before modifying any parameters, you must put the machine in MDI mode and unlock the memory:
Turn the Memory Protect key/switch to the off (unlocked) position.
Press the SETTING function key to reach the "SETTING (HANDY)" page.
Locate parameter 8000 (PWE) and change the far-right bit (Bit #0) from 0 to 1.
The control will trigger a Parameter Write Enable alarm; this is normal and expected while PWE is active. Essential Communication Parameters (RS232)
These parameters are critical for connecting your Fanuc 11M to a PC for DNC or program transfer.
Parameter 5001/5002: Device Select (1 for MDI/CRT port, 2 for Master PCB port).
Parameter 5110: Device type (typically set to 3 to use DC codes/software handshaking).
Parameter 5111: Stop bits (1 = 1 stop bit; 2 = 2 stop bits).
Parameter 5112: Baud rate selection (9 = 2400, 10 = 4800, 11 = 9600). General Machine & Axis Parameters
Commonly used parameters for motion and spindle control include:
Parameter 1005 Bit #0: If set to 1, allows the machine to run in automatic mode without homing (No-homing operation).
Parameter 1241: Coordinate value of the 2nd reference point.
Parameter 1320 / 1321: Stored stroke limits (Soft overtravel limits). Temporary adjustment to 99999999 can suppress overtravel alarms during maintenance. Parameter 1420: Rapid Traverse Rate for each axis. Parameter 3741–3743: Maximum spindle speed limits.
Parameter 4077: Spindle orientation position adjustment (useful for tool changes).
Parameter 6700 Bit #0: Part counting logic (0 = count on M30/M02; 1 = count on custom M-code). Option Parameters (9000 Series)
These parameters enable specific software features. Warning: These should only be changed if you are certain of the machine's configuration. 9102 Bit #1: Inch/Metric selection.
9110 Bit #0/1: Sets program storage capacity (e.g., 100 or 200 programs). 9111 Bit #0: Macro B option. 9116 Bit #0: Enables the Part Counter feature.
Note: Always perform a full backup of all parameters (NC and PC/PMC) before making changes, as Fanuc may no longer provide data for these legacy controls. You can use the Fanuc 11M Configuration Guide for detailed hardware setup.
The Fanuc 11M parameter list contains thousands of settings that control everything from basic machine axes to complex communication protocols. Because a full list is too large to display here, the most critical "common" parameters are categorized below. Critical Setup Parameters
0000–0030 (Setting Parameters): These include PWE (Parameter Write Enable), which must be set to 1 to change any other parameters. You can find instructions on enabling PWE on MachineMetrics.
1000–1100 (Axis Control): These define the number of axes, axis names (X, Y, Z), and whether an axis is linear or rotary.
1240–1241 (Reference Points): These store the machine coordinate values for the first and second reference points (Home positions). CNCMakers notes that 1240 is for the first point and 1241 for the second. I/O and Communication (RS-232)
To transfer programs, these parameters must match your PC settings:
5001: I/O device selection (0 for RS-232, 1 for Bubble Memory). 5110: Device type (usually set to 3). 5111: Stop bits (typically 2). 5112: Baud rate (e.g., 10 for 4800, 11 for 9600). Spindle and Tooling
3741–3743: These parameters set the maximum spindle speeds for different gear ranges. According to CNCMakers, you can modify these directly to limit RPM.
6700–6710: Used for part counting. Setting 6700#0 to 0 enables counting on M30/M02, as detailed by FactoryWiz. Diagnostic Monitoring
If the machine errors out, check the Diagnostics screen (DGN):
DGN 720: Indicates an overload (OVL) alarm. KFASLLC explains this often points to thermal issues or broken cables. Important Note on Backups
The Fanuc 11M uses a battery to maintain these parameters. If the battery dies while the power is off, all parameters are lost. It is highly recommended to print a hard copy of your specific machine's parameter list or save it to a PC via RS-232.
Are you trying to fix a specific alarm or set up a new communication link?
control system uses specific parameter ranges for its operational settings, communication, and machine-specific options. To modify these, you must first enable Parameter Write Enable (PWE) Squarespace Enabling Parameter Write (PWE) Select MDI Mode Emergency Stop Enable PWE soft key to reach the SETTING (HANDY) Parameter 8000 Change bit . You will see a
alarm; this is normal and indicates write access is enabled. Access Parameters : Press the soft key, then the soft key to view and edit the main parameter list. Restore PWE : After changes, set Parameter 8000 Squarespace Communication Parameters (RS-232/I/O) These are typically found starting at Parameter 5110 for Reader/Puncher interface settings: Squarespace Device Type (Specifies reader/puncher specifications, e.g., for standard control codes). (Usually set to for Fanuc controls). (Values correspond to specific speeds: for 9600). Squarespace Critical System Parameters 2nd Reference Point (Coordinate value in machine coordinates). 3rd Reference Point Rapid Traverse Rate for each axis. Backlash Compensation (Slow/general compensation). Rapid Backlash Compensation Spindle Orientation position adjustment. 6700#0 (PCM) Part Counting : Specify custom for part counting (if Option Parameters (9000 Series) Fanuc 10M-11M Communications Parameters - Squarespace
Read all the way through before performing ANY changes! 1. Select “MDI” mode of operation. 2. Flip the “Memory Protect” switch up, Squarespace Fanuc 10, 11, 12, & 15 RS-232 Parameters
The Fanuc 11M (a classic CNC control from the mid-1980s) uses a parameter system that is more advanced than the 6M but less structured than the 0-series or 16/18 series. The "feature" of its parameter list is that parameters are primarily 4-digit numbers (0000 to 9999, though many are unused), organized into four distinct functional groups.
Here is the feature breakdown of the Fanuc 11M parameter list:
