2. Inside a VFD: Rectifier, DC Bus, Capacitors, and Inverter (2 of 19)
Introduction
A Variable Frequency Drive may look like a simple electronic box mounted inside a control panel, but internally it performs a very important power conversion process.
A VFD does not simply …
Read More3. VFD Safety: What Every Technician Must Know Before Touching a Drive (3 of 19)
Introduction
A Variable Frequency Drive is a powerful industrial motor control device, but it is also a piece of electrical equipment that can contain dangerous voltage, stored energy, sensitive electronics, and …
Read More5. Basic VFD Parameters Every Technician Should Understand (5 of 19)
Introduction
A Variable Frequency Drive can have hundreds of parameters, but an automation technician does not need to memorize every parameter to troubleshoot or commission a drive effectively.
What a technician needs …
Read More6. VFD Start Sources and Speed References Explained (6 of 19)
Introduction
One of the most common problems when troubleshooting a Variable Frequency Drive is not electrical power, not the motor, and not even a bad drive.
Many times the real issue is …
Read More7. 2-Wire vs 3-Wire VFD Control (7 of 19)
Introduction
When a Variable Frequency Drive is controlled from external pushbuttons, selector switches, relays, or PLC outputs, the technician must understand the difference between 2-wire control and 3-wire control.
These two control …
Read More8. VFD Acceleration, Deceleration, Coast, Ramp, and Braking (8 of 19)
Introduction
A Variable Frequency Drive does much more than simply turn a motor ON and OFF. One of its biggest advantages is the ability to control how the motor starts and …
Read More9. VFD Installation Basics: Power Wiring, Control Wiring, Grounding, and Environment (9 of 19)
Introduction
A Variable Frequency Drive can be correctly programmed and still fail if it is installed incorrectly.
Many VFD problems in the field are not caused by a bad drive. They are …
Read More10. Using the HIM: How to Navigate, View Parameters, and Troubleshoot a VFD (10 of 19)
Introduction
The HIM, or Human Interface Module, is one of the most useful tools a technician can use when working with a Variable Frequency Drive.
A VFD can be controlled and diagnosed …
Read More11. VFD Backup Methods: HIM CopyCat, Software Upload, and Parameter Documentation (11 of 19)
Introduction
A Variable Frequency Drive is not only an electronic motor controller. It is also a programmed device that contains application-specific settings.
When a VFD fails, replacing the hardware is only part …
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