OMRON Cam Positioner Complete Guide

Chapter 5: Communication and Monitoring - Application of CompoWay/F Protocol

The 3F88L is equipped with a serial communication port that complies with the CompoWay/F standard. CompoWay/F is OMRON's unified universal serial protocol, which uses a unified frame format and FINS command structure.

Feasible functions:

Read/write cam programs (batch or single point).

Real time monitoring of current angle and speed.

Read error status.

Remote control start/stop.

Engineering value: Through communication with the upper computer (PLC or industrial control computer), formula management, remote debugging, and production data collection can be achieved without frequent operation of the panel.

Chapter 6: Fault Diagnosis and Daily Maintenance Points

Although the 3F88L series is known for its high reliability, the following issues may still be encountered on-site.

6.1 Camless output

Check if the START input is connected (must be ON).

Check if the functional level is 0? If it is 0, the cam program cannot be run (note: under level 0, the cam output still runs according to the stored program, but cannot be modified; if there is no output, the program may be empty).

Check if the ERROR output is activated? If so, check the panel error code.

Check if the rotary transformer cable is disconnected or has poor contact.

6.2 Unstable or jumping angle display

Possible reason: The rotary transformer is subjected to strong electromagnetic interference. Ensure that the cable uses shielded twisted pair and the shielding layer is grounded at one end.

Check if the mechanical coupling is loose.

6.3 Poor positional repeatability accuracy

Firstly, confirm whether the backlash compensation value is set correctly.

Check if there is excessive wear on the mechanical transmission.

Verify whether the lead angle compensation fails due to changes in speed (such as insufficient compensation range).

6.4 Data saving failure

The EEPROM has a write life of 100000 times. If the cam program is frequently modified through communication or panel, it may approach the upper limit of its lifespan. At this point, the locator should be replaced.

Data loss after power outage? EEPROM is non-volatile and does not require a battery. If it occurs, it may be a hardware malfunction.

6.5 Common Error Tips (Panel Display)

Display (example) meaning processing measures

Check the cable connection for Err1 rotary transformer disconnection or abnormal signal, and measure the coil resistance of the rotary transformer

Err2 EEPROM verification error, rewrite the cam program. If it repeatedly occurs, replace the hardware

Err4 angle setting exceeds the range. Check if the ON/OFF angle is within 0~359 or 0~719

Chapter 7: Precautions for Replacement and Upgrade - Maintenance for Old Equipment

As the original document mentions that the M7F series display unit was discontinued in March 2016, for systems using this display unit, it is recommended to:

Use CompoWay/F communication to replace the display function through the upper computer.

Or upgrade to the new generation of cam locators released by OMRON (compatibility needs to be confirmed).

When the 3F88L body needs to be replaced:

Record all cam programs of the original equipment (read through communication or manually copied).

Record the initial settings (resolution, rotation direction) and all compensation values (origin, backlash, lead angle).

Disconnect the power and replace the hardware.

Reset according to the original parameters and perform a test operation to verify the output logic.

If the copy function is used, the original device can be set as the master station and the new device as the slave station, and all data can be copied with one click.