Controller Won't Power On

Owned by Adam Brunner
Last updated: Mar 19, 2024 by Sam Bollen
2 min read

Background

The controller is the computer that runs PathPilot and controls your CNC machine. While the controller itself could be different (a tower, a brix, rev c, rev d, an operator console, etc.), they perform the same function in controlling your machine and providing you with a friendly user interface.

The operator console is an all-in-one system and might require different troubleshooting. For operator console troubleshooting steps, go to Operator Console Won't Work .

Table of Contents

Reseat the power cable

Reason: The PathPilot controller isn't plugged in to an outlet.

  1. Unplug and re-plug the controller’s power cable from both the outlet and the controller.

Restore power to the controller

Reason: The circuit breaker tripped or a fuse is blown.

  1. If the monitor and the controller both don't have power:

    1. Examine the power cables for damage or exposed wires and replace if needed.

    2. Reset the CB3 circuit breaker.

  1. If the monitor and the controller both don't have power

    1. Examine the power cables for damage or exposed wires and replace if needed:

    2. Reset the CB2 circuit breaker.

  1. If the monitor and the controller both don't have power:

    1. Examine the power cables for damage or exposed wires and replace if needed.

    2. Replace the FU6 fuse.

Replace the video cable

Reason: The video cable is disconnected from the PathPilot controller.

For monitor troubleshooting steps, go to https://tormach.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/IMK/pages/2849898509/Controller+Monitor+Standard+and+Touch+Screen+Doesn+t+Work .

Replace the CMOS battery (stuck at Pathpilot splash screen)

Reason: The CMOS battery is dead.

Start the controller with only the monitor connected

Reason: There is a USB issue.

  1. Power down you machine and remove everything from your controller except power, machine communication, and the monitor.

  2. Power back up.

  3. Does the controller boot farther into PathPilot?

    1. If yes, attach one USB at a time until you find the problematic USB connection.

    2. If no, check time and date in BIOS.

      1. To get into BIOS, restart computer and rapidly press F2 or F10 (tower controllers), or Del (for brix, rev c, etc.). If your date and time are accurate, and you still are having issues, restore to factory settings.