EFKA Motor Technical Guides & Error Codes

Empenzo Americas Corp.

Step-by-step instructions and troubleshooting for Efka control systems — USB software updates, error messages, info messages, compiler and communication codes, and the digital handwheel setup guide.

Efka USB Update & Software Guide

🔌 USB / Update

Step-by-step instructions and troubleshooting for updating the software of Efka control boxes by USB device.

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:

Turn off the control box
Plug the USB device into the control box
Turn on the control box
Press the P-key to open the parameter menu and select parameter F527
Press the E-key until “hdl_” is displayed
Press >> key to display the file name (F2 key for Variocontrol)
Select the correct file using the + / − keys
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:

Turn off the control box
Insert the USB device
Turn on the control box
The update will start automatically
Wait until the normal sewing display appears

Which USB device should I use?

For control boxes of the AB2xxx-, AB3xxx-, AB4xxx- or DA3xxx-series, the USB device may not exceed a 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 the update overwrite my parameters?

When using a classic-series control box (AB2xxx, AB3xxx, AB4xxx and DA3xxx) the control parameters must be manually copied to a USB device before starting the flash update (using parameter F510)! After the update is finished, the parameters can be copied back to the control box (using parameter F511).

With AB6xxx-series control boxes the flash update is carried out by Autorun File — the parameters will automatically be stored on the USB device and copied back to the control box after a successful flash update.

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

If a problem occurs during the update (power interruption, USB removal or a 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 at order@empenzo.com or +1 (770) 744-3831.

Efka USB Update & Software Guide

💾 Software Identification

How to Determine the Installed Software Version

Steps:

Turn off the control box
Hold the P-key and turn on the control box
Keep holding until prompted for code entry
Enter code 3112 and confirm with the E-key
Select parameter F179
Press >> key to open the service routine (F2 for Variocontrol)
Press the E-key to view the 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 the 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, the 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: order@empenzo.com · +1 (770) 744-3831

Efka Control Systems

⚠️ Error Messages

Complete reference of Efka error codes shown on the control display, with probable causes and remedies. Open each group to view the full code tables — every code is listed.

Error Codes 1 to 4 (USB update file errors)

Code	Meaning / Cause	Remedy
1	Error during file operation — file or USB memory stick is damaged.	Try another USB memory stick.
2	Error in file: unknown ID — file or USB memory stick is damaged.	Try another USB memory stick.
3	Error in file: intel hex record — file or USB memory stick is damaged.	Try another USB memory stick.
4	Error in file: checksum — file or USB memory stick is damaged.	Try another USB memory stick.

Error Codes E 1 to E 5

Code	Meaning / Cause	Remedy
E 1	The external pulse encoder (IPG/HSM) is defective or not connected.	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
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.
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 itself is defective.
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 a possible loose contact. If the error occurs immediately after power on, you must send in the control for repair.
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 itself is defective.

Error Codes E 7 to E 18

Code	Meaning / Cause	Remedy
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.
E 8	24 V power supply unit overload / too much data for the EEPROM or Flash memory.	Please send the controller for repair.
E 9	EEPROM or flash memory defective.	Please send the controller for repair.
E 10	Output transistor short circuit (output FL, VR, M1, M2, M3 or 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.
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.
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.
E 13	Thread cutter did not reach the end position.	During the thread cutting operation a timer is 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 it if necessary.
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 the 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.
E 15	Internal communication error with the intermediate circuit.	Please check with us or an authorized service center if a software update is available. If not, the control must be repaired. 001 ERRVAR_STARTINIT — HighSide not programmed or not running 002 ERRVAR_INITPARATOZWK — HighSide no response during parameter communication 003 ERRVAR_SENDTXDFRAME1 — HighSide no response during parameter communication 004 ERRVAR_SENDTXDFRAME2 — HighSide no response during parameter communication 005 ERRVAR_MOTORTEST_VAL1 006 ERRVAR_SENDTXD — Highside processor no response
E 16	Mains voltage too low: the mains voltage was less than 120 V eff.	If the error message occurs sporadically, low mains voltage is the problem. This can be caused by a poor power supply. This is not a fault of the 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.
E 17	The indirect d.c. converter could not be loaded to the necessary voltage.	Probable cause is a too frequent switching on / off of 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!
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 Codes E 19 to E 88-4 (and E 90)

Code	Meaning / Cause	Remedy
E 19	No motor is connected, the 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.
E 20	No motor is connected, the 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.
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!
E 22	The EB401 analog value is out of range.	Check the connection of the EB401. Replace the EB401. If the error still exists, the controller must be repaired! Error sub-numbers which will be additionally 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 the control box is on. You have to power off the control box first!
E 23	Communication error with control panel V860A.	Please restart the controller. If the error occurs repeatedly, please contact us. Overview of 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
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).
E 25	Handwheel sensor not recognized.	Please check whether the external handwheel sensor is plugged in or is defective.
E 26	Wrong error number.	An unknown or wrong error number was set by software. Please contact us.
E 27	Vario control timeout.	The variocontrol display is not reacting. The busy signal from the display is on for at least 5 seconds. Please try to replace the variocontrol (in most common cases V820). Another reason for the problem is that you have to power off the control box for at least 5 seconds before power on.
E 28	Error during parameter preset.	Please contact us.
E 88-1	Processor Error: HardFault.	—
E 88-2	Processor Error: MemManage.	—
E 88-3	Processor Error: BusFault.	—
E 88-4	Processor Error: Usage Fault.	—
E 90	Wrong preset values.	Please contact us.

Efka Control Systems

ℹ️ Info Messages (A-Series)

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, plus recommended checks for the most common messages.

Complete Info A-Series Message Overview

Code	Meaning	Check / Solution
A1	Pedal not in neutral position — the pedal is not in the neutral (0) position when switching on the machine.	Ensure the pedal is mechanically in the 0 position Check if the pedal is stuck or blocked Inspect the pitman rod for bending Replace the actuator (EBxxx) if necessary
A2	Machine run blockage — the machine cannot start due to a blockage condition.	Verify the sensor or switch connection Check the cable for damage or interruption Test using parameter F-173 Disable the function via F-240 to F-249 if not required
A3	Reference position not set — a reference position is required but not configured.	If F-270 = 6, set a reference position Follow the machine manual instructions If not required → set F-270 = 0
A4	No valid mode selected — no valid machine mode has been configured.	Set parameter F-290.
A5	Select resistor not connected — no select resistor detected → system runs in emergency mode.	Enter code after power ON Set parameter F-280 Store using F-401 = 1 Press the P key twice Restart the machine (OFF → ON)
A6	Light barrier monitoring — no signal detected from the light barrier sensor.	Verify the sensor connection Check the cable condition Adjust parameter F-195 (0 = monitoring OFF)
A20	Running lock — the machine is locked and cannot run.	—
A21	Pedal active during startup — the pedal was pressed during machine startup or programming.	—
A22 / A23	Emergency operation mode — the machine is running in emergency mode.	—
A24	Bobbin thread low — the bobbin thread monitor indicates a low thread level.	—
A25	Reference position missing — the datum (reference) position is not set.	—
A26	Incorrect teach-in mode — wrong cutting mode selected for the programmed data.	—
A27	Wrong symbol-bar settings — incorrect settings for the teach-in program.	—
A28	No RS232 connection — no communication with the serial device.	—
A30	Flash programming error — an error occurred during the firmware update.	—
A31	Flash programming successful — the firmware update completed successfully.	—
A39	Program too large — the program exceeds the memory capacity.	—
A40	Light barrier monitoring active — the system is monitoring the light barrier sensor.	—
A41	Teach-in data error — the stored data is invalid or corrupted.	—
A42	Memory full — no space available for additional data.	—
A43	Vario button configuration error — incorrect function mapping of the Vario buttons.	—
A44	EEPROM full — the internal memory storage is full.	—
A45	EEPROM read error — the control system cannot read the EEPROM data.	—
A46	RS232 timeout — no response from the connected device.	—
A47	RS232 communication error — the device does not recognize the command.	—
A48	Invalid device address — an incorrect or unsupported address was detected.	—
A50	Maintenance required — the scheduled service time has been reached.	—
A51	Hardware error — internal hardware malfunction.	—
A52	Data saved on power off — the system will store data during shutdown.	—
A53	Parameter not found — the selected parameter does not exist.	—
A57	USB error — error during a USB read/write operation.	—

Need help? If you are unsure about any Info message, send us your machine model, control unit (AB / DA) and the error or info code — we will help you identify the issue and the solution. order@empenzo.com · +1 (770) 744-3831

Communication & Compiler Error Codes Guide

🧩 Compiler Messages

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

Compiler Errors

Code	Meaning
E10	Stack overflow
U02	Unknown system function
U03	Unknown input/output variable
U04	Too many variables
U05	Too many system variables
U06	Not enough memory
U07	Wrong Variobutton access
U08	Unknown device address
U09	Download error (no compiler program)

Error U01 – Compiler Program Error (secondary error codes)

For detailed diagnostics, a secondary error code is displayed:

Code	Meaning
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

Code	Meaning
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 Message Codes (20–62)

Code	Meaning
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: order@empenzo.com · +1 (770) 744-3831

Communication & Compiler Error Codes Guide

📡 Communication Errors

Error messages which are sent by B18 communication. Common message format: %F10001

% — NAK / not acknowledge
F1 — address of the control box
0001 or 01 — error number. The number is a hexadecimal value with a length of 2 or 4 digits.

B18 Communication Error Numbers

Code	Identifier	Meaning
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 allowed
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, e.g. '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	Teach-in program number does not exist
11	TEACH_NAHTNUM_NOTEXIST	Teach-in sew number does not exist
12	PROGNUM_MISSING	Teach-in: program number missing
13	NAHTNUM_MISSING	Teach-in: sew number missing
14	IS_NOT_AN_FP	FP data was sent 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	—

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

🎛️ Digital Handwheel

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)

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

M-type sewing machine with digital handwheel

Parameters for DA321G Control

Set the following parameters:

Parameter	Value	Function
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)

Parameter	Value	Function
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) → the machine moves to the target position
The 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: order@empenzo.com · +1 (770) 744-3831