Using Trace Function of the A/F 800 Series Inverter

Version 1.0

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This book applies to the Mitsubishi Electric Corporation product components and to all subsequent releases
and modifications until otherwise indicated in new editions. Make sure you are using the correct edition for the
level of the product.

MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC CORPORATION PROVIDES THIS BOOK "AS IS," W ITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY
KIND, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED W ARRANTIES
OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.

This book could contain technical inaccuracies or typographical errors. Changes are made periodically to the
information herein. Mitsubishi Electric Corporation may make improvements and changes at any time to the
product(s) and/or program(s) described in this book.

IMPORTANT NOTE:

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 Contents

Contents ...................................................................................................................................................................ii
FURTHER READING REFERENCE LIST ..............................................................................................................iv
Mitsubishi Manuals ..................................................................................................................................................iv
Mitsubishi.................................................................................................................................................................iv
Chapter 1 Introduction ....................................................................................................................................... 1-1
Chapter 2 System Overview.............................................................................................................................. 2-2
2.1 Mitsubishi FR-A800 VFD ...................................................................................................................... 2-2
2.2 Applicable A800 and F800 Inverter Models ......................................................................................... 2-3
2.2.1. FR-A800 and FRA800-E Models .................................................................................................. 2-3
2.2.2. FR-F800 and FR-F800-E Models ................................................................................................. 2-3
2.3 Applicable Firmware Version ................................................................................................................ 2-3
2.3.1. FR-A800 and FR-A800-E ............................................................................................................. 2-3
2.3.2. FR-F800 and FR-F800-E ............................................................................................................. 2-3
2.3.3. Checking Firmware revision ......................................................................................................... 2-3
2.3.4. Location of USB Host (A Connector)............................................................................................ 2-3
Chapter 3 Trace Function Description .............................................................................................................. 3-4
3.1 Trace Function Modes of Operation ..................................................................................................... 3-4
3.1.1. Memory Mode............................................................................................................................... 3-4
3.1.2. Recorder Mode ............................................................................................................................. 3-4
3.2 Trace Function Timing Chart ................................................................................................................ 3-4
Chapter 4 Trace Function Parameter Settings .................................................................................................. 4-1
4.1 Parameter Settings ............................................................................................................................... 4-1
4.2 Parameters for Trace Function ............................................................................................................. 4-1
4.2.1. Pr.1020 Trace Function Operation ............................................................................................... 4-1
4.2.2. Pr.1021 Trace Function Mode ...................................................................................................... 4-1
4.2.3. Pr.1022 Sampling Cycle ............................................................................................................... 4-2
4.2.4. Pr.1023 Number of Analog Channels........................................................................................... 4-2
4.2.5. Sampling Auto Start...................................................................................................................... 4-2
4.2.6. Trigger Mode Selection ................................................................................................................ 4-2
4.2.7. Number of Samples before Trigger .............................................................................................. 4-3
4.2.8. Analog Source Selection .............................................................................................................. 4-3
4.2.9. Analog Trigger Channel ............................................................................................................... 4-5
4.2.10. Analog Trigger Operation Selection ............................................................................................. 4-5
4.2.11. Analog Trigger Level .................................................................................................................... 4-5
4.2.12. Digital Source Selection ............................................................................................................... 4-5
4.2.13. Digital Trigger Channel ................................................................................................................. 4-6
4.2.14. Digital Trigger Operation Selection .............................................................................................. 4-6
Chapter 5 Trace Function Monitoring and Diagnostics ..................................................................................... 5-1
5.1 Monitoring Status ................................................................................................................................. 5-1
5.2 USB LED Display Status ...................................................................................................................... 5-1
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 5.3 Digital Output for Trace Function Operation ........................................................................................ 5-1
Chapter 6 Operation and Programming Examples ........................................................................................... 6-1
6.1 Operation of Trace Function ................................................................................................................. 6-1
6.2 Keypad Operation with Default Parameter Settings............................................................................. 6-1
6.3 Viewing Trace Function Files in FR-Configurator2 Graph Function .................................................... 6-2
6.3.1. FR-Configurator2 Graph Function ................................................................................................ 6-2
6.4 Pr.1020 Operation Parameter Settings ................................................................................................ 6-6
6.5 Custom Settings of the Trace Function ................................................................................................ 6-7
Chapter 7 Trace Function Programming Examples .......................................................................................... 7-1
7.1 Trouble Shooting Inverter Faults .......................................................................................................... 7-1
7.1.1. Over Current, Over Voltage, Motor Overload and Inverter Overload Faults ................................ 7-1
7.1.2. Troubleshooting Inverter using Trace Function with Analog Trigger ........................................... 7-2
7.1.3. Troubleshooting Inverter using Trace function with Digital Trigger .............................................. 7-2
7.1.4. Troubleshooting Inverter Issues Over Extended Period of Time. ................................................ 7-3
Terminology ............................................................................................................................................................. 1
Revisions ................................................................................................................................................................. 1

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FURTHER READING REFERENCE LIST

Mitsubishi Manuals
FR-A800 Instruction Manual (Detailed) IB (NA) 0600503ENG-J (June 2017)
FR-A800 Instruction Manual (Start-Up) IB (NA) 0600493-G (April 2017)
FR-F800 Instruction Manual (Detailed) IB (NA) 0600547ENG-B (April 2017)
FR-F800 Instruction Manual (Start-Up) IB (NA) 0600545-B (June 2017)
FR Configurator2 Instruction Manual (Inverter Set-Up Software) IB (NA)-0600516ENG-H (November 2017)

ATTACHMENTS

Mitsubishi

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Chapter 1 Introduction
The Quick Start Guide (QSG) provides instructions on how to configure, operate, and analyze information from
the Mitsubishi FR-A800/F800 Variable Frequency Drive series with the new Trace Function application
parameters. The Trace Function allows the user to record up to eight analog and eight digital channels utilizing
different methods and triggers and storing them to an USB Storage device. Once the files have been download
from the FR-A800/F800 internal memory to the removable USB Storage device the user can use Mitsubishi’s
FR-Configurator2 Inverter software to analyze the data. MR-Configurator2 software contains a 16 channel
graphing function similar to a digital oscilloscope that allows the user to view and analyze the data from the 16
monitored channels. The Trace Function is very useful in analyzing and troubleshooting the operation of the
drive during specific conditions. This is especially useful when investigating fault conditions since the Trace
Function can store drive information before and after the drive had faulted or by a trigger.
The objective of this Trace Function document is to assist the users to quickly set-up the Trace Function for
each type of operation that it can be configured for and understand how to use the Trace Function data within
MR-Configurator2 Inverter software. This manual contains the necessary configuration information for the
Mitsubishi FR-A800/F800 Variable Frequency Drive series and FR-Configurator2 software.

It is assumed the user of this manual is familiar with the operation of the Mitsubishi FR-A800/F800 Variable
Frequency Drive series and FR-Configurator2 software. It is highly recommended for the user to refer to the
Mitsubishi FR-A800/F800 series and FR-Configurator2 instruction manuals when configuring the drive and
software.

Figure 1. A800 Inverter and Graphing Function Screen from FR-Configurator2

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Chapter 2 System Overview
This QSG was written using the following test system. FR-A800 and Inverter Duty Motor
The VFD Programming software is FR-Configurator2 V1.07H or Greater.

Figure 2 Architecture of Test System

2.1 Mitsubishi FR-A800 VFD

The Mitsubishi VFD used in this system consists of:
Model: FR-A820-00046-1-N6 (Firmware 8380C)
Power: 0.4 kW Normal Duty Operation

Figure 2 FR-A820-00046-1-N6 VFD Nameplate

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2.2 Applicable A800 and F800 Inverter Models
The Mitsubishi VFD Models that this QSG applies to are as follows:

2.2.1.FR-A800 and FRA800-E Models

FR-A820-00046-1(E)-N6 through FR-A820-04750-1(E)-60 (230 VAC)
FR-A840-00023-1(E)-N6 through FR-A840-06380-1(E)-60 (460 VAC)
FR-A842-07700-1(E)-60 through FR-A842-12120-1(E)-60 (460 VAC)
FR-A860-00027-1(E)-N6 through FR-A860-04420-1(E)-60 (600 VAC
FR-A862-05450-1(E)-60 through FR-A862-08500-1(E)-60 (600 VAC)

2.2.2.FR-F800 and FR-F800-E Models

FR-F820-00046-3(E)-N6 through FR-F820-04750-3(E)-60 (230 VAC)
FR-F840-00023-3(E)-N6 through FR-F840-06830-3(E)-60 (460 VAC)
FR-F842-07700-3(E)-60 through FR-F842-12120-3(E)-60 (460 VAC)

2.3 Applicable Firmware Version

The FR-A800 and FR-F800 firmware that this QSG applies to are as follows:

2.3.1. FR-A800 and FR-A800-E

8380C or higher version

2.3.2. FR-F800 and FR-F800-E

8463D or higher version

2.3.3. Checking Firmware revision

The A800 and F800 firmware version can be check by reading the following parameters:
Pr.168 (Firmware Revision)
Pr.169 (Firmware Revision Level)
Note: The Firmware Revision Level is stored in Pr.169 by number, 1-26. This number
corresponds to the Alphabet A-Z.
Example: 8380C Firmware Pr.168 = 8380 and Pr.169 = 3

2.3.4. Location of USB Host (A Connector)

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Chapter 3 Trace Function Description
3.1 Trace Function Modes of Operation
This section describes the modes of operation of the Trace Function for the FR-A800/F800 series
Inverters.

3.1.1. Memory Mode

The traced data is first saved in the internal RAM on the inverter, and then saved in a USB Storage
device after the measurement is complete. (Selectable from automatic or manual saving) High-speed
sampling (125μs at the shortest) is possible with the memory mode, but this mode is not suitable for a
long-duration sampling. The waveforms in the RAM are cleared when the inverter is turned OFF or reset.
Be sure to save the waveforms in the USB Storage device before turning OFF or resetting the inverter.
Up to 99 sets of the measured data can be saved in the USB Storage device. When 99 sets of data are
already stored in the USB Storage device, the oldest data will be overwritten. There are two choices for
transferring the data to USB, manual and automatic

3.1.2. Recorder Mode

The operation is basically the same as that of the memory mode, but the recorder mode directly stores
the data to a USB Storage device, while the memory mode temporarily stores the data to the internal
RAM. The waveform during the pre-trigger is saved, and the measurement is possible without a trigger.
This mode is suitable for a long-duration sampling, but high-speed sampling is not available (1 ms at the
shortest). Note that only one waveform can be saved in the USB Storage device with the recorder mode.
Any waveform recorded with the recorder mode in the USB Storage device will be cleared before
sampling. (The waveforms recorded with the memory mode are managed separately and will not be
cleared.) Be sure not to delete the waveform at the time of a failure especially when the automatic
sampling start is set. While sampling, other USB functions (parameter copy to the USB Storage device
and write/read of sequence programs, etc.) cannot be used simultaneously.

3.2 Trace Function Timing Chart

This section describes the timing and operation of memory mode.

OFF ON
Power Supply:
Auto- Manual
Sampling Start:
Start Start
Trigger:
Saving:
Internal RAM Operation: Stores the waveform as needed Cleared
Data is discarded Waveform Waveform
Waveform record range:
after the sampling before Trigger after Trigger
time exceeded
Pre-Trigger
Sampling Time Saved Saved
USB Storage operation:

Trace Function Status:

Waiting for Pre-trigger Wait for Trigger Measurement Save Save

sampling after Trigger (Auto (manual
mode) mode)
Figure 3 memory mode timing

The first timing line in figure 3 is labeled Power Supply. When the main AC power is switched on the
Trace Function can be performed. When the main AC power is turned off the internal RAM memory is
cleared. Make sure if using Memory Mode in manual operation that the saved command has been set
and the data transfer has been completed before turning the main AC power off.
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The next line in figure 3 is labeled Sample Start. Data sampling can be started automatically on main
AC power on and at a fault reset or can be started manually with a parameter setting or from the
inverters keypad.
The third timing line is Trigger. The Trigger can set in parameters for automatic or manual. Automatic
triggers are from an inverter fault, Analog threshold, Digital threshold, Analog OR Digital threshold, and
Analog AND Digital threshold. A manual trigger can come from a parameter setting or the inverters
keypad.
The fourth timing line is Saving. Once the data has been sampled it can be saved automatically or
manually. In Memory Mode there is a parameter setting for manual or automatic transfer. If this is set
for automatic once the data is complete the inverter will transfer to the USB Storage device. In manual
operation a parameter setting of the keypad can be sued to transfer the data to the USB Storage device.
The fifth timing line is Internal Ram Storage. Once the sampling has been started the data is stored in
RAM until it is cleared or over written by the next start.
The sixth timing line is Waveform record range. As soon as the Trace function is started data is being
saved. In memory Mode there is a fixed time frame based on sample cycle and number of Analog
channels set in parameters. Once the Trace function has saved this fixed time frame amount of data it
will overwrite this data until it sees a trigger. Once the Trace Function see a trigger the post trigger data
is added to the pre-trigger data and saved to internal RAM.
The seventh timing line is USB Storage operation. This shows when the data is saved to the USB
Storage device.
The last timing line is Trace function status. This shows the entire operation of the Trace Function.
There is a Trace Function Status monitor that can be displayed using the inverter keypad.

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Chapter 4 Trace Function Parameter Settings
4.1 Parameter Settings
This section of the QSG will explain the parameters setting for the Trace Function. The parameter values
can be programmed by using the built in keypad (FR-DU-08), optional keypad (FR-LU-08), the hand held
keypad (FR-PU-07), or by using FR-Configurator2 Inverter software. The user of this QSG must be
familiar with one of these methods to program the parameters into the Inverter. Please see section 4.1 in
the FR-A800 Instruction Manual (Detailed) IB(NA)0600503ENG-J (June 2017) or FR-F800 Instruction
Manual (Detailed) IB(NA)0600547ENG-B (April 2017) for instructions on built in keypad (FR-DU-08).

4.2 Parameters for Trace Function

The following charts and details will describe the parameters used for programing the different modes and
selections for the A800 or F800 Series Inverter. Examples for the different mode of operation will follow in
the QSG.

4.2.1. Pr.1020 Trace Function Operation

This parameter will manually start, trigger, stop, and transfer data for the Trace function. It can be used
in Memory Mode as well as Recoder mode. When Pr.1021 and Pr.1024 are set to 0, Pr.1020 and the
Trace Menu in the DU-08 Keypad are the manual control for operating the Trace Function.

4.2.2. Pr.1021 Trace Function Mode

This parameter chooses Memory Mode with manual transfer, Memory Mode with automatic transfer, and
Recorder Mode. The different modes were described in section 3.1 of this QSG.

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4.2.3. Pr.1022 Sampling Cycle
This parameter set the sample time or rate of sampling for the analog and digital data for the Trace
function. Pr.1022 along with Pr.1023, Number of Analog Channels, determines the total sample time
length in Memory mode (manual or automatic transfer). This can be set for 0.125 milliseconds to 1
second. In Recorder mode the lowest sampling time is 1 millisecond.

4.2.4. Pr.1023 Number of Analog Channels

This parameter sets the number of analog channels that are recorded during the Trace Function. In
Memory Mode you can choose from 1 to 8 channels. In Recorder Node the default is 8 channels.

The chart in figure 4 contains the total sample time length based on mode of operation, Pr.1021,
number of of analog channels, Pr.1023, and the sampling cycle, Pr.1022.

Figure 4. Trace Function total sampling time

Example:
In Memory Mode, (Pr.1021 = 0 or 1), and your are tracing 4 analog channels, (Pr.1023 = 4), with your
sampling time set for 5.0ms (Pr.1022 = 4) your total graph sample time is 4.2 seconds. Depending on
the type of issue you are trying to capture the settings of Pr.1022 and pr.1023 may need to be varied.
In Memory Mode the each graph or trace is limited to a 100MB of data. This explains why at high speed
sampling rates the total graph sample time is small and at slower sampling rates the total sample time is
longer. The Recorder Mode is limited to 1 GB of data and the shortest sampling cycle is 1.0 ms.

4.2.5. Sampling Auto Start

This parameter determines when the Trace function is started. There are two settings manual sampling
start and automatic sampling start. Manual sampling start uses Pr.1020 = 1 to start the Trace function.
Automatic sampling start will start when the power supply to the inverter is turned on and/or when the
inverter is reset.

4.2.6. Trigger Mode Selection

This parameter selects between five different triggers for the Trace Function. The graphing function,
once started will continue to store data and overwrite it until a trigger is act upon. Once a trigger is seen
the additional data stored is based on the Total Sampling Time and Pr.1026 Number of Sampling
Before Trigger. This function works in Memory Mode and Recorder Mode. The final graph will show
when the trigger is activated. The first trigger is the Fault Trigger, Pr.1025 = 0. When the inverter
experiences a fault condition this activates the trigger for the Trace Function. The second trigger is an

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analog trigger. The analog trigger uses one of the analog channels settings as its source set by
Pr.1035 (Analog Trigger Channel). There is also a value set by Pr.1037 (Analog Trigger Level) and
whether the trigger set point is exceeded or falls below the value set, Pr.1036 (Analog Trigger Operation
Selection). The third trigger is a digital trigger. The digital trigger uses one of the digital channels
settings as its source set by Pr.1046 (Digital Trigger Channel). There is also a selection by Pr.1047
(Digital Trigger Operation Selection) on whether the trigger set point in an on signal or an off signal.
The next two triggers are a combination of analog or digital triggers. If Pr.1025 =3 the Trace Function
uses an Analog OR Digital Trigger whichever comes first. When Pr.1025 = 4 the Trace Function uses
and Analog AND Digital trigger. Both the Analog Trigger and Digital trigger must be satisfied to trigger
the graphing to complete.

4.2.7. Number of Samples before Trigger

This parameter sets the percentage of Total Sampling Time that is store before and after the trigger. In
Memory Mode the Trace Function has a fixed total sampling time. Depending on what the user is trying
to graph this parameter setting will vary. In the case of a Fault Trigger the user would want to see 90-
95% of what the inverter is experiencing before the trigger. Once a fault happens the inverter trips
ceasing operation. In the case of a digital trigger the user may want to see what happens after the
trigger so the setting would 5-10%.

4.2.8. Analog Source Selection

The next eight parameters are the Analog Source Selection for the available eight channels the Trace
Function can graph.

Figure 5. Analog Source Channels

The Analog channels are the same as the monitors provide by inverter that can be displayed on the
keypad as well as special high speed monitors that are available in Fr-Configurator2 software graphing
function. The special high speed monitors are the 201-238 setting value. The following chart shows all
the monitor values that can be set in Pr.1027 – Pr.1034.

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Analog Source (Monitor Items) Selection.
Please refer to A/F 800 Detailed Instruction
Manual for details.

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4.2.9. Analog Trigger Channel
The parameter selects the analog channel that will be used for the Trace Function trigger if Pr.1025,
Trigger Mode Selection = 1, 3, or 4.

4.2.10. Analog Trigger Operation Selection

This parameter selects whether a value that exceeds the Analog Trigger Level, Pr.1037, or falls below
the Analog Trigger Level.

4.2.11. Analog Trigger Level

The parameter set the level at which the analog trigger turns on. The setting values range is 600 to
1400. The actual trigger level is the value obtained by subtracting 1000 from the set value. This gives
the user an actual range of -400 to 400 in percent of that value.

4.2.12. Digital Source Selection

The next eight parameters are the Digital Source Selection for the available eight channels the Trace
Function can graph.

Figure 7. Digital Source Channels

The Digital channels are the same as the I/O Signals that control the logic of ther inverteror the inverter
controls and are also available in Fr-Configurator2 software graphing function. The following chart
shows all the Digital sources that can be set in Pr.1038 – Pr.1045.

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Digital Source Selection setting values for Pr.1038 to Pr.1045

Figure 8. Digital Source Channels Selections

4.2.13. Digital Trigger Channel

The parameter selects the digital channel that will be used for the Trace Function trigger if Pr.1025,
Trigger Mode Selection = 2, 3, or 4.

4.2.14. Digital Trigger Operation Selection

This parameter selects whether the Digital Trigger is a signal that turns ON or Turns OFF.

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Chapter 5 Trace Function Monitoring and Diagnostics
5.1 Monitoring Status
The trace status can be monitored on the operation panel by setting "38" in Pr.52 Operation panel main
monitor selection, Pr.774 to Pr.776 (Operation panel monitor selection), or Pr.992 Operation panel setting
dial push. The Trace Status Monitor consist of a four digital coded number. Each digit’s place, one through
four, reflects a function within the Trace Function. As the trace function is started, triggered, stopped, and
data transferred to the USB Storage device Monitor 38 will change with the Trace Function status. This
monitor will also troubleshoot errors of the Trace Function as well.

Figure 9. Monitor Status for Trace Function

5.2 USB LED Display Status

The operation of the trace function as it applies to the USB Storage device can be monitored as well. When
copying the traced data to a USB Storage device, the operating status of the USB host can be checked with
the inverter LED. Figure 10 describes the USB LED function.

Figure 10. USB LED Status for Trace Function

5.3 Digital Output for Trace Function Operation

During the Trace Function operation the Trace Status Y40 can be programmed to a digital output. To use
the Y40 signal, set "40 (positive logic) or 140 (negative logic)" in one of Pr.190 to Pr.196 (Output terminal
function selection) to assign function to an output terminal.

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Chapter 6 Operation and Programming Examples
6.1 Operation of Trace Function
The Trace Function in the FR- A/F 800 inverter series can be operated in many ways. This section of the
QSG will show examples of the different modes, Memory and Recorder, as well as operation from the DU-
08 keypad, FR-PU-07, Pr.1020, automatic or manual, and using triggers.

6.2 Keypad Operation with Default Parameter Settings

The Trace function will operate without setting any of the Trace Function specific parameters. By default the
Trace Function is in Memory Mode (Pr.1021= 0) with manual data transfer and manual start (Pr.1024=0).
The Sampling Cycle or sample rate is set for 1 ms (Pr.1022=2). There will be four analog channels
recorded; output frequency, U-Phase current, V-Phase current, and W-Phase current (Pr.1023=4). There
will also be eight Digital channels recorded; STF, STR, AU, RT, RL, RM, RH, and JOG. With these settings
the total sample time is 852 ms with 90% before a forced trigger or 100% with a stop command and no
trigger point.
To follow is the necessary keypad entry’s that will start, trigger, stop, and transmit data to the USB Storage
device. You MUST have a 1GB or larger USB Storage device inserted into the USB port of the inverter
before proceeding. The procedure below uses the figure 11.

Figure 11. Keypad Trace Function Operation

Step 1. The DU-08 keypad should be in Monitor Mode. The MON indicator LED on the keypad should
be illuminated. If not press the Mode Button on the keypad until the MON indicator LED is
illuminated. Also make sure the USB Storage device is inserted into the USB port on the
inverter. (See Section 2.3.4 for location).
Step 2. Press the Mode Button twice and the keypad display should read FUNC. Next press the SET
button and the display should read TRC. Press the SET button again and the display will be 0.-
--.
Step 3. By turning the M-Dial clockwise the display will change to 1.RUN. Pressing the SET button will
start the Trace Function. The Display will now flash 1.RUN.
Step 4. At this point you can either force a trigger or stop sampling. By turning the M-Dial clockwise the
display will change to 2.TRG. Pressing the SET button will force a trigger, the display will flash

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 2.TRG, and stop the sampling. Or you can turn the M-Dial clockwise to 3.END, press the SET
button, the display will flash 3.END, and simply stop the sampling.
Step 5. Now that the sampling has stopped you must transfer the data to the USB Storage device. Turn
the M-Dial clockwise to 4.CPY and press the SET Button. The display will flash between 4.CPY
and MEM01. (If this is the first file saved on the USB Storage device the display will be MEM01,
otherwise the end number would indicate the number of files on the USB Storage device). Also
the USB LED will flash as well when the data is being down load to the USB Storage device.
Make a note of the file number if you have more than one trace saved on the USB Storage
device. The Trace Function is complete.

6.3 Viewing Trace Function Files in FR-Configurator2 Graph Function

The USB Storage device now contains the Trace Function files. The saved trace data or graphs have
a .ST1 extension. The entire file structure is as follows: USB Drive \ FR_INV \ TRC \ MEM001
\ MEM001.ST1. There could also be other files on your USB Storage device. Under the FR_INV folder you
could have PRG folder which is an USB file save of the built in PLC. Also a folder named PRM could
appear which is an USB saved parameter file. Under the TRC folder along with MEM00x files you could
have REC00x files. REC00x files are from Recorder mode of operation.

Figure 12. USB File Structure

6.3.1. FR-Configurator2 Graph Function

The following explains the procedure for opening the graph from the Trace Function in FR-Configurator2
software. This procedure does not contain how to manipulation the graph within the graph function. It
is highly recommended for the user to refer to the FR-Configurator2 instruction manual, FR-
Configurator2 Instruction Manual ib0600516, when configuring the graph function.

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The first step is to open FR-Configurator2 and under the project header choose New. If you already
have a FR-Configurator2 file saved for the exact drive you have the Trace Function is from you can just
open that file.

Figure 13. Fr-Configurator2 Project New

Once you have clicked on New a pop up window will appear.

Figure 14. FR-Configurator2 System Setting Screen

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All that is necessary to open the Trace Function Graph file is the Model and Capacity of the inverter the
Trace Function was taken from needs to be chosen. You can scroll down the list of Mitsubishi inverter
and chose the correct model. In this example the Trace Function Graph was taken from a FR-F800-
00046-3-N6. Once you have chosen the correct inverter click on the OK Button.
The next step is to open the graph function within FR-Configurator2. Under the Monitor in the tool bar
chose Graph.

Figure 15. FR-Configurator2 Graph selection

This will open the Graph fucntion of FR-Configurator2.

Figure 16. FR-Configurator2 Graph Screen

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Now we can open the graph and view it. In the Graph toolbar click on Open.

Figure 17. FR-Configurator2 Graph Open

The Open window will appear. You will need to find the folder that contains the graph .ST1 file. Chose
the file and open.

Figure 18. FR-Configurator2 File Open Dialog Box

You can manipulate the scaling, cursors, colors, turn on and off different channels of the graph. Please
see the FR-Configurator2 manual for details on manipulating your graph.

Figure 19. FR-Configurator2 Graph Screen showing Data

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6.4 Pr.1020 Operation Parameter Settings
Parameter Pr.1020 has the same operation as the DU-08 keypad under the Trace Function menu. Pr.1020
has 5 settings.
DU-08 Keypad Selections:

Pr.1020 Settings:
0 = without trace operation
1 = sampling start
2 = force trigger
3 = sampling stop
4 = transfer of data to USB memory device

Pr.1020 can be used to start, trigger, stop, and transfer data for the Trace function. This parameter can be
accessed from the DU-08 Keypad, FR-PU07 and FR-PU07-1 Keypads, and from communications. When
using this parameter for operating the Trace Function the user will see that the data set in Pr.1020 does not
store or save. The setting is momentary and only enables the function as describe by the definition of the
setting. The procedure is similar to the DU-08 keypad describe in section 6.2.
Operating the Trace Function from pr.1020 is as follows:
Step 1. Make sure the USB Storage device is inserted into the USB port on the inverter. (See Section
2.3.4 for location).
Step 2. Set Pr.1020 = 1. This will start the trace. It will depend on which mode of operation is chosen,
Memory Mode, Memory Mode with Auto Transfer, or Recorder Mode as to the additional steps
needed to complete the trace and it storage to the USB Storage device.
Step 3. Set Pr.1020 = 2. This will force a trigger. If you are in Memory Mode the trace will finish and
stop. You can skip to Step 5. If you are in Memory Mode with Auto Transfer the trace will
complete, stop and transfer. The trace is completed. If you are in Recorder mode you will
proceed to Step 4.

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 Step 4. Set Pr.1020 = 3. This will stop the trace. This is only necessary in Recorder Mode. In Recorder
Mode by definition is continuously storing data to the USB Storage Device and no data transfer
is need. The trace is complete.
Step 5. Set Pr.1020 = 4. This will transfer the trace data to the USB storage device. This step is only
needed for Memory mode.

The Trace Function, once complete, and transfer to the USB Storage Device can be viewed by the graph
function within FR-Configurator2.

6.5 Custom Settings of the Trace Function

The settings of the Trace Function is dependent on what the user is trying to view or capture. The Sampling
Cycle (pr.1022) and the Number of Analog Channels (Pr.1023) determines in Memory Mode, with or without
auto transfer and Recorder Mode how much time or how long the trace will recorder data. The Analog
Source Selection channel settings (Pr.1027-Pr.1034) will need to be alter based on what the user wants.
The Trace Function can be a very powerful tool for trouble shooting random occurring issues. Also the
Trace Function can be completely automatic, no user intervention necessary, once the function has been
set-up. With the Trace Functions ability to record data for up to 621 days long term trending can be
accomplished.
In the next section some example will be shown will complete parameter settings.

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Chapter 7 Trace Function Programming Examples
7.1 Trouble Shooting Inverter Faults
In most cases when an inverter faults no one is around to see/determine the actually cause during the time
of the fault. By using the Trace Function, data can be recorder and stored before and after the fault. This
method can be programmed to be completely automatic and store up to 99 fault instances. Depending on
the type of fault, the number of analog channels, selection of analog sources, and sampling cycle may be
different and need to altered from the examples below

7.1.1. Over Current, Over Voltage, Motor Overload and Inverter Overload Faults
In this example the Trace Function settings with cover the above types of faults. Other faults may
require different analog settings depending on the issue. We will use Memory Mode with Automatic
Transfer for the Trace Mode Selection and Sampling Auto Start. This will program the Trace Function to
work automatically. A sampling cycle time of 10ms with seven analog channels will produce a graph
that is 5.6 seconds long. We will set the fault trigger to record data 95% before the fault. There will also
be eight digital channels recorded; STF, STR, AU, RT, RL, RM, RH, and JOG.
The parameter settings are as follows:
Pr.1021 = 1 Memory Mode Automatic Transfer
Pr.1022 = 5 10ms sampling rate
Pr.1023 = 7 Number of analog channels
Pr.1024 = 1 Automatic Start on Power-up or Reset
Pr.1025 = 0 Fault Trigger
Pr.1026 = 95% Percentage of pre-trigger samples
Pr.1027 = 1 Analog Channel 1 set for Inverter Output Frequency
Pr.1028 = 2 Analog Channel 2 set for Inverter Output Current
Pr.1029 = 3 Analog Channel 3 set for Inverter Output voltage
Pr.1030 = 5 Analog Channel 4 set for Inverter Frequency Setpoint
Pr.1031 = 8 Analog Channel 5 set for Inverter Converter Output Voltage (DC Bus Voltage)
Pr.1032 = 61 Analog Channel 6 set for Motor Thermal Load Factor
Pr.1033 = 62 Analog Channel 7 set for Inverter Thermal Load Factor

After the parameters are programmed cycle power to the inverter. The USB indicator light should flash
for a short time. The inverter during this time is storing the pre-trigger data and will continue to write this
data to RAM. Once a fault happens the Inverter will automatically transfer the data to the USB Storage
Device. Upon a fault reset the Trace Function will again store the pre-trigger data in RAM. Up to 99
faults can be traced and stored using this method. The file structure is as follows: USB Drive \ FR_INV
\ TRC \ MEM001 \ MEM001.ST1. If multiple fault traces are stored the MEMxxx file will increment up to
99 than it will start overwriting the files from MEM001. The files that are created can be viewed using
FR-Configurator2 or emailed to technical personnel that is assisting in diagnosing the cause of the fault.

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7.1.2. Troubleshooting Inverter using Trace Function with Analog Trigger
When troubleshooting the Inverter the issues may correlate to a certain condition or monitor level. The
issue does happen until a certain current or certain frequency, etc. The Trace function can be triggered
by an analog set point. We will use Memory Mode with Automatic Transfer for the Trace Mode
Selection and Sampling Auto Start. This will program the Trace Function to work automatically. A
sampling cycle time of 5ms with five analog channels will produce a graph that is 3.6 seconds long. We
will set the analog trigger to record data 5% before and 95% after the trigger. There will also be eight
digital channels recorded; STF, STR, AU, RT, RL, RM, RH, and JOG.

The parameter settings are as follows:

Pr.1021 = 1 Memory Mode Automatic Transfer
Pr.1022 = 4 5ms sampling rate
Pr.1023 = 5 Number of analog channels
Pr.1024 = 1 Automatic Start on Power-up or Reset
Pr.1025 = 1 Analog Trigger
Pr.1026 = 5% Percentage of pre-trigger samples
Pr.1027 = 1 Analog Channel 1 set for Inverter Output Frequency
Pr.1028 = 2 Analog Channel 2 set for Inverter Output Current
Pr.1029 = 3 Analog Channel 3 set for Inverter Output voltage
Pr.1030 = 5 Analog Channel 4 set for Inverter Frequency Setpoint
Pr.1031 = 8 Analog Channel 5 set for Inverter Converter Output Voltage (DC Bus Voltage)
Pr.1035 = 2 Analog Channel used for Trigger
Pr.1036 = 0 Analog Trigger Operation Selection (Sampling Starts when Analog Monitor
exceeds the value in Pr.1037)
Pr.1037 = 1045 Analog Trigger Level (45% of Inverter Rated Current)

After the parameters are programmed cycle power to the inverter. The USB indicator light should flash
for a short time. The inverter during this time is storing the pre-trigger data and will continue to write this
data to RAM. Once the Analog Trigger has been exceeded the Inverter will finish collecting data and
automatically transfer the data to the USB Storage Device. Upon an Inverter reset the Trace Function
will again store the pre-trigger data in RAM.

7.1.3. Troubleshooting Inverter using Trace function with Digital Trigger

Using a Digital Trigger to start the Trace function is similar to using an Analog Trigger. The Digital
Trigger uses one of the digital channels as the trigger with either an ON signal or OFF signal to start the
trace. We will use Memory Mode with Automatic Transfer for the Trace Mode Selection and Sampling
Auto Start. This will program the Trace Function to work automatically. A sampling cycle time of 5ms
with four analog channels will produce a graph that is 3.6 seconds long. We will set the digital trigger to
record data 5% before and 95% after the trigger. There will also be eight digital channels recorded;
STF, STR, AU, RT, RL, RM, RH, and JOG.
The parameter settings are as follows:
Pr.1021 = 1 Memory Mode Automatic Transfer
Pr.1022 = 4 5ms sampling rate
Pr.1023 = 4 Number of analog channels
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Pr.1024 = 1 Automatic Start on Power-up or Reset
Pr.1025 = 1 Analog Trigger
Pr.1026 = 5% Percentage of pre-trigger samples
Pr.1027 = 1 Analog Channel 1 set for Inverter Output Frequency
Pr.1028 = 2 Analog Channel 2 set for Inverter Output Current
Pr.1029 = 3 Analog Channel 3 set for Inverter Output voltage
Pr.1030 = 5 Analog Channel 4 set for Inverter Frequency Setpoint
Pr.1046 = 7 Digital Channel used for Trigger (RH Terminal)
Pr.1047 = 0 Digital Trigger Operation Selection (Sampling starts when digital channel signal
turns ON)
After the parameters are programmed cycle power to the inverter. The USB indicator light should flash
for a short time. The inverter during this time is storing the pre-trigger data and will continue to write this
data to RAM. Once the Digital Trigger has been seen the Inverter will finish collecting data and
automatically transfer the data to the USB Storage Device. Upon an Inverter reset the Trace Function
will again store the pre-trigger data in RAM.

7.1.4. Troubleshooting Inverter Issues Over Extended Period of Time.

If the user wishes to trace or store inverter data over a long period of time the Recorder Mode of
operation would be the choice for the Trace Function. The Recorder Mode of operation will store eight
analog and eight digital channels from 14.9 to 621 days depending on sample rate. The Recorder Mode
can be started manually or automatically and the data/trace is transferred continuously. The Trace
function must be stopped manually via Pr.1020 = 3 before the USB Storage Device is removed from the
Inverter. The choice of which analog and digital channels is up to user and what issue is being
examined.
We will use Recorder Mode for the Trace Mode Selection and Sampling Auto Start. This will program
the Trace Function to start automatically. A sampling cycle time of 1ms with eight analog channels will
produce a graph that is up to 14.9 days. There will also be eight digital channels recorded; STF, STR,
AU, RT, RL, RM, RH, and JOG.
The parameter settings are as follows:
Pr.1021 = 2 Recorder Mode
Pr.1022 = 2 1ms sampling rate
Pr.1023 = 8 Number of analog channels
Pr.1024 = 1 Automatic Start on Power-up or Reset
Pr.1027 = 201 Analog Channel 1 set for Inverter Output Frequency
Pr.1028 = 202 Analog Channel 2 set for Inverter Output Current U-Phase
Pr.1029 = 203 Analog Channel 3 set for Inverter Output Current V-Phase
Pr.1030 = 204 Analog Channel 4 set for Inverter Output Current W-Phase
Pr.1031 = 205 Analog Channel 5 set for Inverter Converter Voltage (DC Bus)
Pr.1032 = 208 Analog Channel 6 set for Inverter Torque Current
Pr.1033 = 209 Analog Channel 7 set for Inverter Terminal 2
Pr.1034 = 232 Analog Channel 8 set for Inverter Sped Command
Pr.1038 = 1 Digital Channel 1 set for Inverter Input STF
Pr.1039 = 2 Digital Channel 2 set for Inverter Input STR
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Pr.1040 = 3 Digital Channel 3 set for Inverter Input AU
Pr.1041 = 4 Digital Channel 4 set for Inverter Input RT
Pr.1042 = 5 Digital Channel 5 set for Inverter Input RL
Pr.1043 = 6 Digital Channel 6 set for Inverter Input RM
Pr.1044 = 7 Digital Channel 7 set for Inverter Input RH
Pr.1045 = 8 Digital Channel 8 set for Inverter Input JOG
After the parameters are programmed cycle power to the inverter. The USB indicator light should flash
for a short time. The inverter during this time is storing the pre-trigger data and will continue to write this
data to the USB Storage Device. The Trace Function will continue collecting data and automatically
transfer the data to the USB Storage Device. Once the User has determined that enough data has
been stored/traced parameter Pr.1020 must be set to a 3 to stop the trace function. Upon an Inverter
reset the Trace Function will again store the pre-trigger data in USB Storage Device and start the
Recorder Mode operation. There can only be one Recorder Mode file on a USB Storage Device. If the
Recorder Mode Operation is reset it will overwrite the data in previously Recorder Mode Trace.

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Terminology

QSG Quick Start Guide

Trace Function A function in the standard A/F700 series inverter for graphing data
USB Storage Universal Serial Bus memory (Minimum size 1 GB)
Device
FR-Configurator2 Mitsubishi Electric Automation configuration and troubleshooting software for A/F/E/D 800
and 700 Series Inverters
VFD Variable Frequency Drive. Inverters are referred to as VFD, VSD (Variable Speed Drive),
Drive

Revisions

December 2017 – Document Created and Published - V1.0

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