ErC 0256

General Knowledge and Inspection

The ErC 256 generally shows up when the Input Voltage is below 100V or 195V, depending on the model (120V/230V). However, the root cause can be complicated, as this error can be triggered by many factors:

1. Incorrect Input Voltage.
2. Overheating.
3. Production issue from 2019.

Incorrect Input Voltage

When this happens after you move the Bullet to a different outlet, checking the voltage readings on the outlet is advised. The Bullet R1 110V and 220V should not work under 100V and 195V, respectively. You should also check if the Bullet is sharing the outlet with other appliances.

If you are using a power transfomer, you should also check if your power transformer is up to spec. See the following description:

The power transformer should be able to handle more than 2000W / 3000VA of power.  The power transformer should work as long as it is a "traditional" type, or in case it's a fancy inverter, it should be of the "Full Sine Wave" type, instead of a Square Wave one.

Overheating

The ErC 256 can also show up when the MCU on the Induction PCB Module has failed to read the correct voltage from one of its input pins. This typically happens when the Bullet is overheating, causing the following issues:

1. Unexpected resistance changes.
2. Damaged resistors.
3. Intermittent connection issues.

If the ErC 256 shows up on an outlet that has previously worked, the Cable A, Induction PCB Module, or Control PCB Module might have been damaged.

Production Issue In 2019

Lastly, if the ErC 256 (usually accompanying ErC 480/512) is on a Bullet SN 1800-2200, it's a failed Induction Module issue. Please refer to the official post we released in 2019 addressing the problem. Since then the issue has been handled and never relapsed again. Contact your reseller or [email protected] (if you have purchased the Bullet directly from Aillio) for a replacement.

Checking the outlet

Warning

Only do this if you have an understanding of electronics and know how to work with a DMM (digital multimeter). If you don't, please consult a licensed electrician.

1. Check if the voltage on your outlet or power transformer is up to the Bullet's specification.

Tip

You should account for a voltage drop during the measurement. For example, if the outlet is measured at 102V when the Bullet isn't running, the outlet is likely going below 100V during roasting.

2. Plug in another appliance to the outlet to make sure it works.
3. Check if the outlet is sharing a circuit breaker with other outlets.

Cable A Inspection

A broken or disconnected Cable A cuts off the communication between the Control PCB Module and Induction PCB Module. While the Bullet usually shows ErC 0000/0001, it can sometimes show ErC 256 as well. The following steps describes the Cable A inspection process:

1. Follow the IBTS Fan Replacement Guide to access and inspect the Cable A.

2. Ensure the Cable A is properly connected, then look for a frayed or broken wire.
3. Follow the Induction PCB Module Replacement Guide to check the Cable A.

4. Again, ensure the Cable A is properly connected and look for a frayed or broken wire.
5. Cut off the Ziptie and slightly re-arrange the Cable A and Cable B so they are not placed together closely.

Tip

The ziptie has been replaced with a clip in the newer Bullets. Ignore this step if your Cable A and Cable B are being held together with a clip.

6. Re-assemble everything and check if the issue goes away.

Maintenance Issue

If the Bullet has been overheating for a while, the electrical components on the PCBs might get destroyed, causing the Bullet to throw ErC 256.

There are many signs indicating that the IBTS Lens is dirty:

• IBTS First Crack Temps are lower than 195°C.
• The Crossovers between the IBTS Temp and Bean Temp are lower than 190°C.
• The roast degree comes out as darker than usual.

If any of above happens, it's usually a good idea to clean the IBTS Lens first before moving to any other troubleshooting steps.

The ErC 256 can show up when the Bullet is overheating, especially during roasting. If you suspect the Bullet is overheating, follow the steps below to run a quick maintenance and checkup:

1. Clean the IBTS Lens.
2. Clean the Chaff Filter.
3. Disassemble the Control Housing and clean the IBTS Fan.
4. Follow the IBTS Installation Guide and check the IBTS Module alignment.

Seek Help From Support

If you have done all of the above and the issue persists, contact your reseller or [email protected] (if you have purchased the Bullet directly from Aillio) for further assistance. The rest of the troubleshooting steps can be considered too complicated for a self-help guide.