How to Use Memory Cards for Data Backup and Recovery on FANUC

Data and parameters are the most important aspects of a machine tool. If someone modifies the machine’s parameters or the battery runs out of power, it can result in data loss. Therefore, backing up parameters and data is crucial. Below, we’ll discuss how to back up data and parameters on a FANUC machine tool using a memory card.

•  Backing Up CNC Data Using the BOOT SYSTEM

1. 1. Power OFF the CNC and insert the memory card. With the CNC power turned OFF, insert the prepared CF card into the PCMCIA card slot.
   2. Access the BOOT SYSTEM. To enter the FANUC BOOT SYSTEM, follow the startup key sequence shown in the illustration below.

Press and hold the two indicated soft keys simultaneously while turning ON the CNC power. Keep the keys pressed until the BOOT SYSTEM starts and the MAIN MENU screen appears.

3. Important Precautions
    − If the CF card is being used for the first time, format it before use.
    − Always power OFF the CNC before inserting or removing the CF card to prevent possible damage.
    − Do not turn OFF the CNC power during CF card formatting or data read/write operations, as this may result     in data corruption or damage to the card.

4. Understanding CNC Memory Areas
      The FANUC CNC stores system data in two separate memory areas:
      − F-ROM (Flash ROM): Stores CNC system software, machine tool builder (MTB) PMC ladder programs, and P-CODE programs.
      − Always power OFF the CNC before inserting or removing the CF card to prevent possible damage.
      − S-RAM (Static RAM): Stores CNC parameters, part programs, macro variables, and other machine data

The BOOT SYSTEM provides access to both memory areas for data backup and maintenance operations.

To enter the BOOT SYSTEM, press and hold the two designated soft keys while powering ON the CNC. Once the boot sequence is complete, the MAIN MENU screen will appear.

The following steps explain how to navigate the BOOT SYSTEM and perform the required operations:

1. 1. 1. SYSTEM DATA LOADING: Loads system files and user files from the memory card into the CNC’s Flash ROM (F-ROM).
      2. SYSTEM DATA CHECK: Displays a list of files stored in the CNC’s Flash ROM, including the number of 128 KB memory management units allocated to each file and the corresponding software series information. This function is used to check and verify the ROM version.
      3. SYSTEM DATA DELETE: Deletes files stored in the CNC’s Flash ROM (F-ROM).
      4. SYSTEM DATA SAVE: Saves CNC system software, user files, Machine Tool Builder (MTB) PMC ladder programs, and P-CODE programs from the CNC’s Flash ROM (F-ROM) to the memory card.
      5. SRAM DATA BACKUP: Backs up CNC parameters, PMC parameters, leadscrew pitch error compensation data, part programs, tool offsets, common macro variables, macro P-CODE variables, and SRAM variable parameters from the CNC’s SRAM to the memory card. The backup can be used to restore the CNC’s SRAM when required.
      6.          

         Note: For CNC systems equipped with absolute position encoders, when restoring SRAM data from the memory card, set Parameter No. 1815, Bit 4 (APZ) to 0 and re-establish the machine reference position according to the machine tool manufacturer’s procedure.

         − Backup: SRAM BACKUP [CNC → MEMORY CARD]
         − Restore: RESTORE SRAM [MEMORY CARD → CNC]

          

      7. 6. MEMORY CARD FILE DELETE: Deletes files stored on the memory card.
      8. 7. MEMORY CARD FORMAT: Formats the memory card for use with the CNC BOOT SYSTEM. Formatting may be required when using a new memory card for the first time or when the card’s file system becomes corrupted.

Caution: Formatting will erase all existing data on the memory card. Back up any important files before proceeding.

5. Navigating the BOOT SYSTEM
     

6. Use the CNC soft keys to navigate and execute functions within the BOOT SYSTEM.
      The FANUC CNC stores system data in two separate memory areas:
      − UP / DOWN: Move the cursor to highlight the desired menu item.
      − SELECT: Select the highlighted function. A confirmation prompt will appear.
      − YES / NO: Confirm or cancel the selected operation.
      − SELECT (when prompted): Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the operation.
      − END: Exit the BOOT SYSTEM and proceed with normal CNC startup.
   

After selecting END, the CNC exits the BOOT SYSTEM, initializes the control, and displays the normal CNC operating screen.