Code 17500: [Channel %1: ] Block %2 axis %3 is not an indexing axis
Issue Description & Safety Warning
The Siemens SINUMERIK 840D CNC has triggered a critical [Channel %1: ] Block %2 axis %3 is not an indexing axis alarm. Immediate attention from a qualified operator or maintenance technician is required to prevent secondary damage to the equipment or spoiled parts during the manufacturing cycle. Always ensure standard safety and LOTO procedures are followed before accessing electrical cabinets.
Official Troubleshooting Steps
Parameters: %1 = Channel number %2 = Block number, label %3 = Axis name, spindle number Definitions: An indexing axis position has been programmed for an axis with the keywords CIC, CAC or CDC that has not been defined as indexi ng axis in the machine data. Reaction: Correction block is reorganized. Interface signals are set. Alarm display. Remedy: Please inform the authorized personnel/service department. Remove programming instruction for indexing axis positions (CIC, CAC, CDC) from the NC part program or declare the relevant axis to be an indexing axis. Indexing axis declaration: Modify MD30500: $MA_INDEX_AX_ASSIGN_POS _TAB (indexing axis assignment) The axis will become an indexing ax is when an assignment to an indexing position table was made in the stated MD. 2 tables are possible (input value 1 or 2). Modify MD10900 $MN_INDEX_AX_LENGTH_POS_TAB_1 Modify MD10920 $MN_INDEX_AX_LENGTH_POS_TAB_2 (Number of positions for 1st/2nd indexing axis) Standard value: 0 Maximum value: 60 Modify MD10910 $MN_INDEX_AX_POS_TAB_1 [n] Modify MD10930 $MN_INDEX_AX_POS_TAB_2 [n] (Positions of the 1st indexing axis ) The absolute axis positions are entered. (The list length is defined via MD10900 $MN_INDEX_AX_LENGTH_POS_TAB_1). Program Continuation: Clear alarm with NC ST ART or RESET key and continue the program.
Source: SINUMERIK 840D sl / 840Di sl / SINAMICS S120 Diagnostics Manual (DAsl, 03/2009)
Last reviewed: 2026-07-01 · Verified against the manufacturer’s official documentation.
About Siemens SINUMERIK 840D CNC Alarms
Siemens controllers include extensive self-diagnostics that flag or halt the machine when a fault is detected. Error code 17500 on the SINUMERIK 840D CNC identifies one specific fault condition — its documented cause and the official corrective steps are listed above, sourced from Siemens's service documentation. Always confirm against the manual for your exact machine configuration and follow LOTO procedures before servicing.
Complete Alarm List: 4014 Siemens SINUMERIK 840D CNC codes.
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