What does 'Faulty usage' mean on my ABB Controller?
- KkevinandersonSep 23, 2025
Do not use jog forward, jog backward, heat motor, or stand-still break functions with an Inside delta motor connection.

What does 'Faulty usage' mean on my ABB Controller?
Do not use jog forward, jog backward, heat motor, or stand-still break functions with an Inside delta motor connection.
What does it mean when my ABB PSTX85 Controller displays 'Ground fault'?
A ground fault indicates that the sum of the instantaneous line currents in your 3-phase system differs more than the specified value. Examine the motor cables and the motor itself for any issues.
What should I do if my ABB Controller displays 'Locked rotor'?
Examine the bearings of the motor and the load to ensure they run easily. A damaged bearing or a load stock could be the cause.
What does it mean when my ABB Controller displays 'Overvoltage'?
An overvoltage error indicates that the main voltage is too high. Perform a check of the main voltage.
What does it mean when my ABB PSTX85 displays 'Under voltage'?
An undervoltage error indicates that the main voltage is too low. Perform a check of the main voltage.
What does 'High current' mean on my ABB PSTX85 Controller?
A high current fault indicates that a fault current, higher than 8 times the softstarter's rated current, has occurred. Check the circuits and the motor for an insulation fault between phases or a ground fault.
What does 'Auto-restart time-out' mean on my ABB PSTX85?
The auto-restart time-out error means that the time between a trip and an auto-restart attempt has exceeded the configured setting. Review the automatic restart parameters and correct them as needed.
Why does my ABB PSTX85 display 'Too long start time'?
This indicates that the time taken to soft start the motor is longer than the set value. Check the starting conditions and current limit.
How do I fix an ABB PSTX85 Controller that shows a blank screen and no LED is active?
First, ensure that the supply voltage is properly connected, referring to the circuit diagram. Also check that the RJ45 plug is connected between the HMI and the softstarter, and that the RJ45 network cable is not damaged.
What to do if my ABB PSTX85 motor is humming or starts without a given start signal?
This issue could be due to a few reasons. If it's a PSTX30...170 model, a bypass relay might be closed due to inaccurate handling. To resolve this, disconnect the operation voltage and the control supply voltage, remove the USB cable if connected, and then reconnect the voltage in the following sequence: first, the control supply voltage on terminals 1 and 2 (refer to chapter 5.1.2), wait 4 seconds, and then connect the operation voltage on terminals L1, L2, and L3. Alternatively, the bypass contactor/relay could be stuck in a closed position, or there might be a shorted thyristor. In either of these cases, it is best to speak to your ABB Sales Office.
| Rated Operational Current - In Line Connection (Ie) | 85 A |
|---|---|
| Rated Operational Current - Inside Delta Connection | 147 A |
| Rated Power - In Line Connection 500V | 55 kW |
| Rated Power - In Line Connection 690V | 75 kW |
| Rated Power - Inside Delta Connection 690V | 132 kW |
| Service Factor Percentage | 100% |
| Overload Protection | Yes |
| Step Down Voltage Protection | Yes |
| Efficiency | 98% |
| Protection class | IP20 |
| Rated Operational Voltage | 208 ... 690 V |
| Rated Control Supply Voltage (Us) | 100 ... 250 V AC |
| Communication | Modbus RTU, Profibus |
| Input voltage range | 208-690 V AC |
| Output voltage | 230V, 400V, 500V, 690V |
| Output current | 85 A |
| Operating temperature range | -25°C to +60°C |
Provides instructions for connecting the Softstarter, including main circuit and control wiring.
Guides through basic and application setup using assistants for quick configuration.
Explains how to start and stop the motor using the keypad or hardwire control.
Details various protection functions to safeguard the Softstarter, motor, and equipment.
Instructions for checking delivery, inspecting for damage, and proper handling of the Softstarter.
Covers mounting, lifting, and clearance requirements for installing the Softstarter.
Specifies minimum distances for wall and front clearance for adequate cooling and operation.
Describes the electrical connections for the Softstarter, including main circuit and control circuits.
Details how to connect the main power circuit to the Softstarter for inline and delta configurations.
Explains connections for control supply voltage and control circuits, including functional ground.
Describes connections for start and stop signals using internal or external control voltage.
Describes the function of each key on the HMI keypad, including selection and navigation keys.
Explains how to use the keypad for local control to start, stop, and jog the motor.
Explains how to access and set parameters via the HMI menu, including complete lists and favorites.
Instructions for creating, replacing, and uploading Softstarter parameters using the HMI.
Instructions for setting the motor's nominal current parameter for optimal performance.
Details the voltage ramp function for starting and stopping the motor, including parameters.
Explains the torque ramp function for smoother motor control, with adjustable torque curves.
Describes current limit functions (Normal, Dual, Ramp) to manage starting current and prevent overheating.
Describes internal and external digital inputs, relay outputs, and analog outputs for control and monitoring.
Lists and explains various protection functions available to safeguard the system.
Explains internal and external fault detection mechanisms and their basic actions.
Details the optional Anybus CompactCom module for Fieldbus communication via the COM1 port.
Explains the optional Fieldbus Plug Adapter (FBPA) for connecting various Fieldbus protocols.
Outlines routine maintenance checks, including fastening connections, cleaning filters, and fan checks.
Details the process for upgrading the Softstarter and HMI firmware using SoftstarterCare software.
Lists common problems, their possible causes, and suggested solutions for the Softstarter.
Summarizes fault, protection, and warning indications across various motor control states.
Presents circuit diagrams for PSTX Softstarters in IEC and UL versions.