Code 20005: [Channel %1: ] Axis %2 reference point approach aborted
Issue Description & Safety Warning
The Siemens SINUMERIK 840D CNC has triggered a critical [Channel %1: ] Axis %2 reference point approach aborted 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 = Axis name, spindle number Definitions: Referencing could not be completed for all stated axes (e.g., abort caused by missing servo enable, measuring system switchover, release of direction key, etc.). In distance-coded measuring systems, the alarm will also be displayed if the value 1 has been set in MD34000 $MA_REFP_CAM_IS_ACTIV (reference cams) and one of the conditions stated in the remedy has been fulfilled. Reaction: NC Start disable in this channel. Interface signals are set. Alarm display. NC Stop on alarm. Diagnostics Manual (DAsl), 03/2009 Remedy: Please inform the authorized personnel/service de partment. Check the possible reasons for termination: - Servo enable missing: NC/PLC interfac e signal DB31,... DBX2.1 (Servo enable) - Measuring system switchover: NC/PLC interface signal DB31,... DBX1.5 / 1.6 (Position measuring system 1/2) - Traversing key + or - missing: NC/PLC interfac e signal DB31,... DBX4.7 / 4.6 (Traversing keys plus/minus) - Feed override = 0 - The feed disable is active - Exact stop not reached within MD36020 $MA_POSITIONING_TIME. The axis-specific MD34110 $MA_RE FP_CYCLE_NR determines which axes are involved in the channel-specific referencing. ValueMeaning -1: No channel-specific referencing, NC Start without referencing. 0: No channel-specific referenci ng, NC Start with referencing. 1-8: Channel-specific referencing. The num ber entered here corresponds to the referencing sequence. (When all axes with contents 1 have r eached the reference point, then the axes with contents 2 start, etc.). Program Continuation: Clear alarm with the RESET key. Restart part 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 20005 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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