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USB / Update 

Efka USB Update & Software Guide

Step-by-step instructions and troubleshooting for Efka control systems.

What to do if the control has no function after update?

If a problem occurs during the update (power interruption, USB removal or corrupted file), the update may fail and the control may lose its software.

In this case, the control must be reprogrammed using Efka Loader software and the appropriate interface cable.

If necessary, please contact our support team.

Which USB device should I use?

For control boxes of the AB2xxx-, AB3xxx-, AB4xxx- or DA3xxx-series, the USB-device may not exceed the storage capacity of 2 GB and must be formatted FAT/FAT16. Format FAT32 does not work here!

For the AB6xxx-series control boxes any standard USB-device will do, memory size and format are not relevant.

Will update overwrite parameters?

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Update by USB Device – Classic Series (AB2xxx, AB3xxx, AB4xxx, DA3xxx)

The USB device must only contain the update files. All files must be located in the root directory (not in a sub-folder).

If files are provided in ZIP or any compressed format, they must be extracted before starting the update.

Steps:

1. Turn off the control box
2. Plug the USB device into the control box
3. Turn on the control box
4. Press the P-key to open the parameter menu and select parameter F527
5. Press the E-key until "hdl_" is displayed
6. Press >> key to display file name (F2 key for Variocontrol)
7. Select the correct file using + / - keys
8. Press the E-key twice to start the update

Update by USB Device – AB6xxx Series

The USB device must only contain update files in the root directory (not in a folder).

If files are compressed (ZIP), extract them before use. Remove all .ptk files before updating.

Steps:

1. Turn off the control box
2. Insert the USB device
3. Turn on the control box
4. The update will start automatically
5. Wait until the normal sewing display appears

Efka USB Update & Software Guide

Step-by-step instructions and troubleshooting for Efka control systems.

How to Determine Installed Software Version

Steps:

1. Turn off the control box
2. Hold the P-key and turn on the control box
3. Keep holding until prompted for code entry
4. Enter code 3112 and confirm with E-key
5. Select parameter F179
6. Press >> key to open service routine (F2 for Variocontrol)
7. Press E-key to view information

Displayed information includes:
- Program number
- Program index
- Date (year, month, day, hour)
- Control type / hardware

Important:
The date specification is the key factor for identifying software version.

Which Software Do I Need? Which Hardware Do I Have?

A control box type (e.g. AB321A) may exist in different hardware versions.

To determine the correct software, you must identify the program number.

The program number:
- Is a 4-digit number (5000–6000 range)
- Followed by a letter (program index)

Example:
5020J_13102312

The program number can be found:
- On the control box label
- In parameter F179

The program index is not critical for selection.

Need Help or Not Sure About Your Control?

If you are unsure about compatibility, update process, or software selection, contact our technical team.

We can assist you with:
- Correct software identification
- Update support
- Compatible components

Send us your control box model or a photo of the label.

Digital Handweel

The DA321G controller supports 

Digital Handwheel (EHW) for M-type machines.
Need help? Contact our support team for further assistance.

Digital Handwheel (EHW) Setup & Connection Guide for DA Controllers

The DA Electronic Positioning System (Digital Handwheel) enables precise manual control of the sewing machine, especially for positioning, adjustments, and detailed operations.

Dürkopp Adler Part No: 0867 590684

Compatibility

This system is compatible with the following control units:

DA321G

AB221A

AB321A

AB425S

⚠️ Minimum required software version: 03.07.2015 [15070311]
⚠️ Required accessory: Efka Cable Adapter (1114042)

Parameters for DA321G Control

Set the following parameters:

F-864 = 3 → Signal source (B18 socket)

F-866 = 25 → Minimum motor speed (continuous rotation)

F-867 = 0 / 1 → Motor rotation direction

F-263 = 5 → Step increment value

F-264 = 20 → Maximum motor speed

F-265 = 100 → Stop delay after movement

F-876 = 150° → Lower reverse rotation limit

F-877 = 170° → Upper reverse rotation limit

F-239 = 109 → Push-button function (Target position)

F-879 = 0 / 1 → Push-button ON/OFF

Parameters for Classic Controls

(AB221A / AB321A / AB425S)

F-864 = 3 → Signal source (B18 socket)

F-866 = 25 → Minimum motor speed

F-867 = 0 / 1 → Rotation direction

F-260 = 5 → Step increment value

F-261 = 20 → Maximum motor speed

F-262 = 100 → Stop delay

F-876 = 150° → Lower reverse limit

F-877 = 170° → Upper reverse limit

F-239 = 109 → Target position function

F-879 = 0 / 1 → Push-button ON/OFF

Target Position Setup (Teach-In)

Press and hold the digital handwheel button for more than 2 seconds (long beep)

Rotate the needle to the desired target position

Press the button briefly again to confirm

After setup:

Short press (<2 sec) → machine moves to target position

Handwheel allows forward and backward motor control

Reverse movement is limited by parameters F-876 / F-877

Important Notes

Reverse motor movement is restricted within the defined angle zone

Ensure correct parameter setup before operation

Always verify compatibility before installation

Need Help?

Not sure if your control or machine is compatible?
👉 Contact our technical team with your machine model and control unit — we’ll guide you.

Communication Errors

Error messages which are send by B18 communication

Error messages which are send by B18 communicationCommon message: %F10001

%: NAK / not acknowledge

F1: adress of control box

0001 or 01: error number. Number is a hexadecimal value has a length of 2 or 4 numbers

Error numbers:

01  PARA_UNKNOWN, unknown parameter number
02  PARA_ERR_MIN, parameter value is smaller than allowed
03  PARA_ERR_MAX, parameter value is bigger than alowed
04  VARIO_AKTIV, change of parameter value not allowed when programming/variocontrol active
05  SEWING, change of parameter value not allowed when sew active
06  UNKNOWN_COMMAND, unknown command
07  DATA_MISSING, no data after '='-sign
08  UNKNOWNHEADER, unknown header ex. 'P', 'T', 'H'
09  TEST_NOT_ENABLED, communication not enabled
0A  TEST_UNKNOWN_COMMAND_E, unknown sign after 'E'-sign for test command
0B  GET_DATA_NOT_ALOWED, It is not possible to request data
0C  SET_DATA_NOT_ALOWED, Setting data not allowed or not possible
0D  CODE, wrong code
0E  SEPARATOR_EQU, '='-sign is missing
0F  SEPARATOR_SEMI, ';'-sign is missing
10  TEACH_PROGNUM_NOTEXIST, Teachin-program number not exist
11  TEACH_NAHTNUM_NOTEXIST, Teachin-sew number not exist
12  PROGNUM_MISSING, Teachin: program number missing 
13  NAHTNUM_MISSING, Teachin: sew number missing 
14  IS_NOT_AN_FP, FP-Data was send to a non FP control
15  ACESS_DENIEDED, access not allowed, wrong code number
16  DESCRIPT_MISSING, 'X' or 'A'-sign missing
17  PARA_NOT_IN_TEACHINLIST
18  NOT_ENOUGH_SPACE     
19  TEACH_DATA_NOTEXIST  
1A  TO_MUCH_PARAMETER       
1B  SLAVE_IS_BUSY         
1C  ERRCSI_UNKNOWN_ELEM_SYSIO

Info Messages

Below are common Info A-Series messages in Efka control systems and their recommended checks.

Efka control systems display Info A-Series messages to indicate machine status, configuration issues, or operational warnings.
Below is a complete overview with explanations and solutions.

INFO A1 – Pedal Not in Neutral Position

The pedal is not in the neutral (0) position when switching on the machine.

Check:

Ensure the pedal is mechanically in the 0 position

Check if the pedal is stuck or blocked

Inspect the pitman rod for bending

Replace actuator (EBxxx) if necessary

INFO A2 – Machine Run Blockage

The machine cannot start due to a blockage condition.

Check:

Verify sensor or switch connection

Check cable for damage or interruption

Test using parameter F-173

Disable function via F-240 to F-249 if not required

INFO A3 – Reference Position Not Set

A reference position is required but not configured.

Solution:

If F-270 = 6, set a reference position

Follow machine manual instructions

If not required → set F-270 = 0

INFO A4 – No Valid Mode Selected

No valid machine mode has been configured.

Solution:

Set parameter F-290

INFO A5 – Select Resistor Not Connected

No select resistor detected → system runs in emergency mode.

Solution:

Enter code after power ON

Set parameter F-280

Store using F-401 = 1

Press P key twice

Restart machine (OFF → ON)

INFO A6 – Light Barrier Monitoring

No signal detected from light barrier sensor.

Check:

Verify sensor connection

Check cable condition

Adjust parameter F-195

0 = monitoring OFF

INFO A20 – Running Lock

Machine is locked and cannot run.

INFO A21 – Pedal Active During Startup

Pedal was pressed during machine startup or programming.

INFO A22 / A23 – Emergency Operation Mode

Machine is running in emergency mode.

INFO A24 – Bobbin Thread Low

Bobbin thread monitor indicates low thread level.

INFO A25 – Reference Position Missing

Datum (reference) position not set.

INFO A26 – Incorrect Teach-In Mode

Wrong cutting mode selected for programmed data.

INFO A27 – Wrong Symbol-Bar Settings

Incorrect settings for teach-in program.

INFO A28 – No RS232 Connection

No communication with serial device.

INFO A30 – Flash Programming Error

Error occurred during firmware update.

INFO A31 – Flash Programming Successful

Firmware update completed successfully.

INFO A39 – Program Too Large

Program exceeds memory capacity.

INFO A40 – Light Barrier Monitoring Active

System monitoring light barrier sensor.

INFO A41 – Teach-In Data Error

Stored data is invalid or corrupted.

INFO A42 – Memory Full

No space available for additional data.

INFO A43 – Vario Button Configuration Error

Incorrect function mapping of Vario buttons.

INFO A44 – EEPROM Full

Internal memory storage is full.

INFO A45 – EEPROM Read Error

Control system cannot read EEPROM data.

INFO A46 – RS232 Timeout

No response from connected device.

INFO A47 – RS232 Communication Error

Device does not recognize command.

INFO A48 – Invalid Device Address

Incorrect or unsupported address detected.

INFO A50 – Maintenance Required

Scheduled service time reached.

INFO A51 – Hardware Error

Internal hardware malfunction.

INFO A52 – Data Saved on Power Off

System will store data during shutdown.

INFO A53 – Parameter Not Found

Selected parameter does not exist.

INFO A57 – USB Error

Error during USB read/write operation.

Need Help?

If you are unsure about any Info message:

👉 Send us:

Machine model

Control unit (AB / DA)

Error or info code

We will help you identify the issue and solution.

Complier Messages

Communication & Compiler Error Codes Guide

Below is a complete overview of compiler, system, and control error codes used in Efka control systems.

Compiler Errors

Error E10
Stack overflow

Error U02
Unknown system function

Error U03
Unknown input/output variable

Error U04
Too many variables

Error U05
Too many system variables

Error U06
Not enough memory

Error U07
Wrong Variobutton access

Error U08
Unknown device address

Error U09
Download error (no compiler program)

Error U01 – Compiler Program Error

For detailed diagnostics, a secondary error code is displayed:

001 – Error in opcode
002 – Maximum number of variables exceeded
003 – Maximum SYSIO variables exceeded
004 – Maximum variables exceeded
005 – Maximum SYSIO variables exceeded
006 – Not enough memory
007 – Unknown parameter number
008 – Wrong parameter value
009 – Unknown function call
010 – Wrong data type
011 – Maximum array variables exceeded
012 – Array dimension error
013 – Not enough memory
014 – Access to uninitialized array
015 – Array initialized multiple times
016 – Device address not allowed
017 – Not enough memory for stepper array
018 – Wrong parameter value
019 – Error in opcode
020 – Array access error (invalid X dimension)
021 – Array access error (invalid Y dimension)
022 – Array access error (invalid Z dimension)
023 – Array access error (zero not allowed)
024 – Array access error (zero not allowed)
025 – Array overflow (X dimension)
026 – Array overflow (Y dimension)
027 – Array overflow (Z dimension)
028 – Array access error (zero not allowed)
029 – Stack overflow
030 – Function not available in Flash version
031–038 – Errors in SetVarioButton function
039 – PowerOn detection missing
040 – Unknown user string
041 – Opcode error / program counter out of range
042 – Unknown VM operation
043 – Data transfer termination error

Control System Error Codes

00 – No error
01 – Error overflow (more than 6 errors)
02 – Program error
03 – Overvoltage
04 – Not in use
05–12 – Illegal opcode / processor errors
13 – Not in use
14 – Motor blocked
15 – Motor overload
16 – Encoder/sensor missing or defective
17 – Not in use
18 – Mains voltage failure
19 – Power supply overload

Info Messages

20 – Running lock
21 – Pedal active during startup
22–23 – Emergency operation mode
24 – Bobbin thread low
25 – Datum position not set
26 – Wrong teach-in mode
27 – Incorrect symbol-bar settings
28 – No RS232 connection
29 – Not in use
30 – Flash programming error
31 – Flash programming successful
32–33 – Not in use
34–38 – Compiler-related errors
39 – Program too large (memory full)
40 – Light barrier monitoring
41 – Teach-in data error
42 – Memory full
43 – Vario button mapping error
44 – EEPROM full
45 – EEPROM read error
46 – RS232 timeout
47 – RS232 communication error
48 – Invalid device address
49 – Not in use
50 – Maintenance required
51 – Hardware error
52 – Data saved on power-off
53 – Parameter not found
54 – Output short circuit
55 – Thermal overload
56 – Power amplifier fault
57 – USB read/write error
58–62 – System communication / internal errors

Need Assistance?

If you are unsure about any error code:
👉 Contact us with your machine model and control type, and we will assist you.

Error Mesages

Error Codes 1 to 4

Error 1

Error during file operation
File or USB memory stick is damaged.

Try another USB memory stick.

Error 2

Error in file: unknown ID
File or USB memory stick is damaged.

Try another USB memory stick

Error 3

Error in file: intel hex record
File or USB memory stick is damaged.

Try another USB memory stick

Error 4

Error in file: checksum
File or USB memory stick is damaged.

Try another USB memory stick.

Error Codes  E 1 to E5  

Error E 1 

The external pulse encoder (IPG/HSM) is defective or not connected. Please check the cable connection to the control box! If necessary, replace the IPG/HSM.

The voltage at the B18 socket can be changed from 5V to 15V using parameter F362, or a jumper on the circuit board, depending on the type of control box. The impulse encoders (IPG/HSM) are only designed for 5V and can be impaired or damaged.

For more details, a second error number is shown toggling in the display:
001 Wrong counting of G-Pulses
002 Signal for internal Sync is missing
003 No Sync after one rotation (positive direction)
004 No Sync after one rotation (negative direction)
005 Signal of external Sync is missing
006 Commutation error

Error E 2 

The Line voltage is too low, or the time between power Off and power On is too short. Check if the power cord is connected securely to the power outlet. The fault can be triggered by a defective contact or by a short-term power failure of the line voltage.

Error E 3 

The motor does not reach the desired speed

  • Check, if the machine is mechanically blocked or hindered. (Run/sew without material)
  • Check all connection cables and plugs on the machine.
  • The error can occur, when trying to sew too thick/strong material. Where applicable, modify the gear ratio of the drive belt in order to obtain a higher torque. Keep the maximum permissible motor speed in mind!
  • Verify, that the motor is sufficiently dimensioned for the application.
  • Verify, that the correct motor parameter F-467 was selected. (AB6xx, AB425S)
  • Check, if the tension of the drive belt is too high/too low.
  • Install a different motor of identical build, to check if the motor intself is defective.

Error E 4 

Control disturbed by lack of grounding or loose contact.

  • If the error occurs sporadically, check whether the controller is sufficiently grounded, or if the mains supply has possible loose contact.
  • If the error occurs immediately after power on, you must send in the control for repair.

Error E 5 

Motor transistor overtemperature (AB600A, AB220A, AB320A, DA320G, FP220A, FP320A)

  • Check, if the machine is mechanically blocked or hindered. (Run/sew without material)
  • Check all connection cables and plugs on the machine.
  • The error can occur, when trying to sew too thick/strong material. Where applicable, modify the gear ratio of the drive belt in order to obtain a higher torque. Keep the maximum permissible motor speed in mind!
  • Verify, that the motor is sufficiently dimensioned for the application.
  • Verify, that the correct motor parameter F-467 was selected. (AB6xx, AB425S)
  • Check, if the tension of the drive belt is too high/too low.
  • Install a different motor of identical build, to check if the motor intself is defective.

Error E 7

24 V power supply unit overload
The error indicates that a connected load of the 24V power supply requires too much power. First, remove the 37-pole connector. If the error no longer occurs, you need to check the connected magnets or solenoids. If the error is still displayed, remove gradually all other cable connections from the controller. If the error is still displayed, the controller must be repaired.

Error E 8

24 V power supply unit overload
Too much data for the EEPROM or Flash memory
Please send the controller for repair.

Error E 9

EEPROM or flash memory defective
Please send the controller for repair.

Error E 10

Output transistor short circuit (Output FL, VR, M1, M2, M3, oder M4)
The error indicates that a connected solenoid or valve has a short circuit. First, remove the 37-pole connector. If the error no longer occurs, you need to check the connected magnets or solenoids. If the error is still displayed, the control must be repaired.

Error E 11

Power transistor thermal overload
One of the connected magnets or solenoids requires more power than permitted. Thereby, the thermal load of the transistor is too high. Remove the 37-pole connector from the controller. If the problem does not appear anymore, check the connected loads. If the error is still visible, remove all connecting cables. If the error still appears, the controller must be repaired

Error E 12

Output transistor short circuit on M5, M6, M7, M8, M9, M10, or M11
The error indicates that a connected solenoid or valve has a short circuit. First, remove the 37-pole connector. If the error no longer occurs, you need to check the connected magnets or solenoids. If the error is still displayed, the control must be repaired.

Error E 13

Thread cutter did not reach the end position
During the thread cutting operation is a timer running. If the thread trimming was not completed by the time monitoring the output is switched off in order to prevent destruction of the magnet. Check the setting of the needle up position and change them if necessary.

Error E 14

Mains overvoltage: The mains voltage is greater than 290 V rms.
If the error message occurs sporadically, power surges are present. This can be caused by the activation of voltage generators in case of power failure. This is not a fault of control, but a protection mechanism to prevent the destruction of the power input of the control. If the fault is always shown, the controller must be sent for repair.

Error E 15

Internal communication error with intermediate circuit
Please check with us or an authorized service center, if a possibly software update is available. If not, the control must be repaired.

001 ERRVAR_STARTINIT HighSide not programed or not running
002 ERRVAR_INITPARATOZWK HighSide no responese during parameter communication
003 ERRVAR_SENDTXDFRAME1 HighSide no responese during parameter communication
004 ERRVAR_SENDTXDFRAME2 HighSide no responese during parameter communication
005 ERRVAR_MOTORTEST_VAL1
006 ERRVAR_SENDTXD Highside-Processor no response

Error E 16

Mains voltage too low: The mains voltage was less than 120 V eff.
If the error message occurs sporadically, low mains voltages is the problem. This can be caused by a poor power supply. This is not a fault of control, but a protective mechanism to ensure trouble-free running of the motor. If the fault is always shown, the control must be sent for repair.

Error E 17

The indirect d.c. converter could not be loaded on the necessary voltage
Probable cause is a too frequent switching on / off the power in a short time. Switch off the control and  let it cool down. This may take up to 3 minutes depending on the outside temperature. If the problem still occurs frequently, please contact us!

Error E 18

The indirect d.c. converter voltage is higher than 450V
Possibly the braking resistor has failed. The controller has to be repaired!

Error E 19

No motor is connected, inverter is defective or a motor phase is missing
Check the motor cable or replace the motor. If the fault is still present the control must be sent for repair.

Error E 20

No motor is connected, inverter is defective or a motor phase is missing
Check the motor cable or replace the motor. If the fault is still present the control must be sent for repair.

Error E 21

Error in the 5 V power supply
Remove all connected cables. If the error is gone, check the connected consumer. If the error is still present, the controller must be sent for repair!

Error E 22

The EB401 analog value out of range
Check the connection of the EB401. Replace the EB401. If the error still exists, the controller must be repaired!
Error-Subnumbers which will be additional displayed:
100 : Pedal function not allowed
106 : Analog value out of range
107 : Analog value out of range
108 : Analog value out of range
109 : Analog value out of range
110 : Error during Pedal-Teach
111 : Error during Pedal-Teach
112 : Error during Pedal-Teach
113 : Error during Pedal-Teach
114 : Error during Pedal-Teach
115 : Error during Pedal-Teach
116 : Error during Pedal-Teach
117 : Error during Pedal-Teach
118 : Error during Pedal-Teach
119 : Error during Pedal-Teach
120 : 5V is not present

It is not allowed to toggle, switch off or disconnect the pedal when control box is on. You have to power off the control box first!

Error E 23

Communication error Control panel V860A
Please restart the controller. If the error occurs repeatedly, please contact us. Overview error numbers:
1=Timeout
2=RxBuffer Overflow
3=TxBuffer Overflow
4=BCC Error
5=Unknown header
6=Error Ack/Nak
7= Error NAK
8=Error Rx Header
9=Error Tx Header
10=Read Timeout
11=NFC Timeout Write
12=NFC Timeout Read
13=No Read Response
100=Main Timeout
101=Timeout NFC OpenRead
102=Error SPI EEprom
103=Display not activated
104=Timeout NFC WriteOpen
105=Timeout NFC Write
106=Timeout NFC Read
107=Timeout NFC ReadClose
108=Timeout NFC WriteClose
109=Error chip select Display

Error E 24

Reference sensor not recognized
Please check whether the external reference sensor (IPG/HSM) is plugged in or is defective. If you do not need a reference sensor you can deactivate the function (F270=0).

Error E 25

Handwheel sensor not recognized
Please check whether the external handwheel sensor is plugged in or is defective.

Error E 26

Wrong error number
An unknown or wrong error number was set by software. Please contact us.

Error E 27

Vario control Timeout
The variocontrol display is not reacting. The busy signal from the display is on for at least 5sec. Please try to replace the variocontrol (in most common cases V820). Another reason for problem is that you have to power off the control box at least for 5sec before power on.

Error E 28

Error during parameter preset
Please contact us.

Error E 90

Wrong preset values
Please contact us.

Error E 88-1

Processor Error: HardFault

Error E 88-2

Processor Error: MemManage

Error E 88-3

Processor Error: BusFault

Error E 88-4

Processor Error: Usage Fault