Introduction
Modern buildings and public transit systems rely heavily on robust, intelligent drive controllers to ensure the safe and efficient operation of escalators and moving walkways. The NICE2000 series elevator dedicated inverter — more precisely, the NICE2000 new escalator integrated controller developed by Suzhou Monarch Control Technology Co., Ltd. — stands as a modular, high-performance solution widely adopted across the industry. However, many field engineers find it challenging to quickly locate critical information within the hundreds of pages of the official user manual. This article provides a practical, systematic guide to the NICE2000 series manual, covering product overview, operation panel, parameter system, wiring and terminal configuration, control modes, commissioning procedures, fault diagnosis, and maintenance — helping technical personnel build a comprehensive knowledge framework.
NICE2000 Product Overview and Technical Upgrades
Product Positioning and Core Architecture
The NICE2000 new escalator integrated controller is not a conventional general-purpose inverter. Rather, it is a highly integrated device that combines motor drive and escalator control logic into a single unit. Its core design philosophy is to replace the traditional separated architecture of “PLC/escalator control board + inverter,” achieving lower cost, more compact structure, and superior coordination between drive and control functions.
The product model naming convention is NICE-E1-B-40XX, with each field meaning:
| Field | Meaning | Description |
|---|---|---|
| NICE | Series name | Elevator integrated controller |
| E1 | Controller type | Escalator-dedicated |
| B | Motor type | Sync/Async universal (A = Async only) |
| 40 | Voltage class | Three-phase 380V |
| XX | Output current | e.g., 17 = 17A, corresponding to 7.5kW |
Model Range and Technical Data
The NICE2000 new series offers seven power ratings spanning 5.5kW to 30kW:
| Model | Input Voltage | Power Capacity (kVA) | Input Current (A) | Output Current (A) | Output Power (kW) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NICE-E1-B-4013 | 3-Phase 380V | 8.9 | 14.6 | 13.0 | 5.5 |
| NICE-E1-B-4017 | 3-Phase 380V | 11.0 | 20.5 | 17.0 | 7.5 |
| NICE-E1-B-4025 | 3-Phase 380V | 17.0 | 26.0 | 25.0 | 11 |
| NICE-E1-B-4032 | 3-Phase 380V | 21.0 | 35.0 | 32.0 | 15 |
| NICE-E1-B-4037 | 3-Phase 380V | 24.0 | 38.5 | 37.0 | 18.5 |
| NICE-E1-B-4045 | 3-Phase 380V | 30.0 | 46.5 | 45.0 | 22 |
| NICE-E1-B-4060 | 3-Phase 380V | 40.0 | 62.0 | 60.0 | 30 |
Key Technical Specifications
- Maximum frequency: 90Hz
- Carrier frequency: 0.5kHz to 16kHz, auto-adjustable based on load characteristics
- Starting torque: 180% at 0.5Hz
- Speed regulation range: 1:100
- Steady-speed precision: ±0.5%
- Torque control precision: ±5%
- Overload capacity: 150% rated current for 60 seconds; 180% rated current for 1 second
- Motor tuning methods: Static tuning and complete (dynamic) tuning
- Digital inputs: 19 channels (14 on IO board + 5 on main control board), 24V/5mA specification
- Relay outputs: 12 channels with flexible function assignment
- Analog inputs: 2 channels (AI1: 0–10V voltage; AI2: selectable 0–10V or 4–20mA)
- Protection functions: Nearly 50 protection items including power-on short circuit detection, phase loss, overcurrent, anti-reversal, and more
Technical Innovation Highlights
The technical upgrades of NICE2000 new are reflected in several dimensions:
- Bypass variable-frequency integration technology: An innovative approach that combines variable-frequency drive with power-frequency drive. The escalator uses variable-frequency control during acceleration and deceleration, then automatically switches to power-frequency operation at stable speed. The inverter operates intermittently, allowing a lower power rating configuration, and eliminates the need for braking resistors — achieving both energy savings and cost reduction.
- Sync/Async universal motor support: Supports not only V/F control for asynchronous motors but also open-loop sensorless vector control (SVC) for both synchronous and asynchronous motors, switchable via parameter settings.
- International standard compliance: Meets EN115 (Europe), AS1735 (Australia), A17.1 (USA), PUBEE (Russia), Korean K standard, and special requirements for Hong Kong and Singapore.
- Independent air duct and conformal coating: All PCBs feature triple-proof lacquer treatment, combined with independent air duct design, ensuring long-term reliable operation in dusty, humid, and harsh environments.
Operation Panel and Parameter System
Operation Panel Functions
The NICE2000 new is equipped with a 5-digit LED display operation panel capable of showing running frequency, output current, DC bus voltage, fault codes, and other data. The panel employs a single-key design philosophy and can connect to an external keyboard via an RJ45 port, greatly facilitating field commissioning.
The panel key functions are as follows:
| Key | Name | Function |
|---|---|---|
| PRG | Program key | Enter/exit first-level menu; quick parameter deletion |
| ENTER | Confirm key | Enter sub-menus level by level; confirm parameter settings |
| ▲/▼ | Increment/Decrement | Increase or decrease data or function codes |
| ◀ | Shift key | Switch display parameters in stop/run state; select digit when modifying parameters |
| RUN | Run key | Start running in keyboard control mode |
| STOP/RES | Stop/Reset key | Stop during running; reset during fault |
| MF.K | Multi-function key | Display and clear fault information |
| QUICK | Quick key | Enter or exit the quick menu |
Panel indicators include: RUN LED (running status), LOCAL/REMOT LED (operation mode; off = panel control), FWD/REV LED (direction; lit = downward), and TUNE LED (tuning status).
Three-Level Menu Structure and Parameter Groups
NICE2000 new adopts a three-level menu structure: Function parameter group (Level 1) → Function code (Level 2) → Function code setting value (Level 3). Function codes are formatted as F×-××, e.g., FB-08 represents the 8th function code in group FB.
The system contains 13 function parameter groups organized as follows:
| Group | Name | Group | Name |
|---|---|---|---|
| F0 | Basic parameters | F8 | Auxiliary management parameters |
| F1 | Motor parameters | F9 | Protection function parameters |
| F2 | Vector control parameters | FA | Communication parameters |
| F3 | VF function parameters | FB | Escalator-specific parameters |
| F4 | Input function parameters | FC | New function parameters |
| F5 | Output function parameters | FF | Manufacturer parameters (reserved) |
| F6 | Start/stop control parameters | FP | User parameters |
| F7 | Auxiliary function parameters | — | — |
Parameter modification attributes use three symbols: ☆ = modifiable in both stop and running states; ★ = modifiable only in stop state; ● = actual detected or recorded value, not modifiable.
Key Parameter Descriptions
F0 Group (Basic Parameters) — fundamental system configuration:
F0-00Control mode: 0 = SVC open-loop vector control (for synchronous motors and high-torque applications); 1 = V/F controlF0-01Operation mode: 0 = panel control; 1 = bypass variable-frequency; 2 = full variable-frequency; 3 = Y-Delta direct startF0-04Maximum frequency: 10.00–99.00Hz, factory default 60.00HzF0-05Carrier frequency: 0.5–16.0kHz; select the lowest value permissible by noise constraints
F1 Group (Motor Parameters) — must be set accurately per motor nameplate:
F1-01Rated power: 0.2–75.0kWF1-02Rated voltage: 0–440V, factory default 380VF1-03Rated current: 0.00–655.00AF1-04Rated frequency: 0.00–99.00Hz, factory default 50.00HzF1-05Rated speed: 0–3000rpm, factory default 960rpmF1-11Tuning selection: 0 = no operation; 1 = static tuning; 2 = complete tuningF1-25Motor type: 0 = asynchronous; 1 = synchronous
F6 Group (Start/Stop Control Parameters) — defines the escalator speed profile:
F6-03Fast speed 1 frequency: factory default 50.00HzF6-04Fast speed 2 frequency: factory default 30.00HzF6-05Slow speed frequency: factory default 12.00HzF6-07Acceleration time: factory default 4.0s (time from 0Hz to maximum frequency)F6-08Deceleration time: factory default 60.0sF6-09Inspection frequency: factory default 25.00Hz
Password protection is configured via FP-00 (user password, 0–65535, 0 = no password). When set, password verification is required before entering parameter editing mode. FP-01 controls parameter initialization: 1 = restore factory parameters; 2 = clear fault records.
Wiring and Terminal Configuration
Main Circuit Terminals
Main circuit terminals include power input, motor output, DC bus, and braking resistor connections:
| Terminal | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| R, S, T | Three-phase power input | AC three-phase 380V input |
| U, V, W | Controller output | Connect to three-phase motor |
| (+), (-) | DC bus | Common DC bus input; external braking unit connection for 37kW and above |
| (+), PB | Braking resistor connection | For models up to 30kW |
| PE | Ground terminal | Must be properly grounded; ground resistance ≤ 5Ω |
Wiring precautions: After power-off, the DC bus terminals retain residual voltage. Wait until the CHARGE indicator extinguishes and verify with a multimeter that the voltage is below 36V before touching. The output side U, V, W must not be connected to capacitors or surge absorbers. Motor cable length should generally not exceed 100m; if exceeded, an AC output reactor is recommended.
Main Control Board Terminals
The main control board provides power output, analog input, digital I/O, and relay output terminals:
+10V-GND: External +10V power supply, max 10mA, for potentiometer (1–5kΩ)+24V-COM: External +24V power supply, max 200mA, for digital inputs and sensorsAI1-GND: Analog input 1, DC 0–10V, input impedance 100kΩAI2-GND: Analog input 2, DC 0–10V or 4–20mA (determined by J3 jumper)DI1–DI5: 5 digital inputs, optically isolated; DI5 can serve as high-speed pulse inputDO1-CME: Digital output, optically isolated open-collector, 0–24V/0–50mAT/A-T/B(normally closed),T/A-T/C(normally open): Relay output, AC 250V/3A, DC 30V/1A
IO Board Terminals
The IO board is powered by an external +24V DC supply and provides extensive I/O resources:
- Digital inputs X1–X14: 14 optically isolated inputs, active low, input impedance 3.3kΩ, voltage range 0–30V. Factory default functions include safety circuit signal (X1), inspection signal (X2), upward (X3), downward (X4), contact adhesion signal (X5), drive chain detection (X6), anti-reversal (X7), brake detection (X8), fire alarm (X9), etc.
- Relay outputs Y1–Y11: 11 normally open relay outputs. CM1 is the common point for Y1–Y8; CM2 is the common point for Y9–Y11. Contact rating: AC 250V/3A, DC 30V/1A. Factory default functions include run contactor (Y1), up contactor (Y2), down contactor (Y3), Y-shaped contactor (Y4), Delta-shaped contactor (Y5), brake contactor (Y6), etc.
- Communication terminals RX+/RX-: MODBUS communication interface; shielded twisted pair cable recommended.
Elevator Control Modes and Commissioning Procedures
Four Operation Modes
NICE2000 new supports four operation modes, selected via parameter F0-01:
1. Panel Control Mode (F0-01=0): Output is controlled by panel RUN and STOP keys; running speed is set by F0-03. Primarily used during commissioning.
2. Bypass Variable-Frequency Drive Mode (F0-01=1): This is the core innovation of NICE2000 new. The escalator is driven by the inverter during acceleration, then automatically switches to power-frequency operation upon reaching line frequency. When no passengers are present, it switches back to variable-frequency low-speed operation. The inverter operates intermittently, allowing a reduced power rating configuration and eliminating the need for braking resistors. A built-in Y-Delta backup control system provides dual-system redundancy, minimizing downtime.
3. Full Variable-Frequency Drive Mode (F0-01=2): The inverter controls the escalator throughout acceleration, constant speed, and deceleration. During downward operation, the motor generates regenerative energy, requiring a braking resistor. Supports multi-speed selection — when the “variable-frequency speed selection” terminal is active, the system runs at fast speed 2 frequency.
4. Y-Delta Direct Start Mode (F0-01=3): The inverter drive section is inactive; Y, Delta, up, and down contactors are controlled via relay outputs to achieve power-frequency starting. Only supports fast-stop cycling energy-saving mode.
Energy-Saving Modes
Three energy-saving methods are selectable via parameter FB-16:
- Fast-stop cycling: Decelerates to stop when unoccupied; accelerates to high speed when passengers arrive
- Fast-slow cycling: Decelerates to low speed when unoccupied; accelerates to high speed when passengers arrive
- Fast-slow-stop cycling: Combines both fast-stop and fast-slow modes
System States
NICE2000 new has five states when powered: fault alarm state, inspection state, normal running state, tuning state, and panel control state. The controller can only be in one state at any given time.
Commissioning Procedure
The manual specifies a standard commissioning sequence, divided into the following stages:
Step 1: Pre-Commissioning Checks for Inspection Slow-Speed
- Mechanical and electrical wiring inspection: verify safety circuit continuity, proper grounding, and correct switch operation
- Power supply check: phase-to-phase voltage 380V ±15%; phase imbalance ≤ 3%; IO board DC+/DC- voltage = DC 24V
- Grounding check: verify infinite resistance between R/S/T, U/V/W and PE
Step 2: Parameter Setting
Set parameters in the following order: F0 group (F0-00–F0-05 basic parameters) → F4 group (F4-01–F4-19 terminal functions) → F1 group (motor nameplate parameters, F1-01–F1-10) → FB group (FB-00–FB-21 escalator-specific parameters).
Step 3: Motor Tuning
Select keyboard control mode, accurately enter motor nameplate parameters F1-01 through F1-05, then select the tuning method via F1-11. Static tuning (F1-11=1) is suitable when the motor cannot be disconnected from the load; complete tuning (F1-11=2) provides more accurate motor parameters but requires the motor to rotate freely. Synchronous motors must undergo dynamic parameter identification.
Step 4: Inspection Trial Run
Inspection running speed is set by F6-09 (default 25Hz). Key checks include: input signal action sequence (safety, inspection, contact adhesion, anti-reversal, brake open signal), output signal correspondence, running direction, and sensor operation status.
Step 5: Fast-Speed Trial Run and Comfort Adjustment
After inspection running is confirmed normal, restore to normal state and test both manual and automatic operation. Adjust comfort via F6-07 (acceleration time) and F6-08 (deceleration time).
Synchronous Switching Self-Learning
When using the synchronous switching card (MCTC-TBB-A) in bypass variable-frequency mode, synchronous switching self-learning is required:
- Confirm F0-01=1 (bypass variable-frequency mode); set FC-08 to 0
- Start the escalator upward; after switching to Delta running state, stop
- Start the escalator downward; after switching to Delta running state, stop
- Check whether all 3 digits of FC-08 are non-zero; if any digit is 0, learning was unsuccessful and the above steps must be repeated
Fault Diagnosis and Alarm Codes
Fault Level System
NICE2000 new classifies nearly 50 protection functions into 5 severity levels:
| Level | Fault Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Display fault code, fault relay activates, normal operation continues |
| 2 | Display fault code, fault relay activates, fault buzzer, normal operation continues |
| 3 | Display fault code, fault relay activates, fault buzzer, decelerate to stop, starting prohibited |
| 4 | Display fault code, fault relay activates, fault buzzer, immediate stop, starting prohibited |
| 5 | Display fault code, fault relay activates, fault buzzer, immediate stop, starting prohibited, safety brake output |
Major Fault Code Reference
| Code | Description | Level | Common Causes and Remedies |
|---|---|---|---|
| Err01 | Inverter unit protection | 4 | Output ground/short circuit, overheating; check wiring, air duct, and fan |
| Err02 | Acceleration overcurrent | 4 | Output short circuit, motor not tuned, overload; fix wiring, tune motor |
| Err03 | Deceleration overcurrent | 4 | Same as above, steep deceleration curve; adjust F6-08 |
| Err04 | Constant speed overcurrent | 4 | Overload or encoder interference; use shielded encoder cable, increase F6-02 |
| Err05 | Acceleration overvoltage | 4 | Input voltage too high or braking resistor abnormal; adjust voltage and resistor |
| Err06 | Deceleration overvoltage | 4 | Same as above, steep deceleration curve; adjust F6-08 |
| Err09 | Undervoltage | 4 | Momentary power loss or low input voltage; resolve external power issues |
| Err10 | Controller overload | 4 | Brake circuit abnormal or overload; inspect brake circuit |
| Err14 | Module overheat | 4 | High ambient temperature, fan failure, blocked air duct; reduce temperature, clean duct |
| Err19 | Motor tuning timeout | 4 | Motor cannot rotate or parameters incorrect; verify parameters, check wiring, confirm brake released |
| Err20 | Encoder fault | 4 | Encoder type mismatch or wiring error; select push-pull or open-collector encoder |
| Err23 | Ground short circuit | 4 | Output shorted to ground; check motor and cable insulation |
| Err30 | Safety circuit open | 4 | Safety circuit switches open; check switch status and external power |
| Err31 | Drive chain break | 5 | Drive chain broken or protection switch activated; inspect chain and switch |
| Err32 | Contactor contact adhesion | 3 | Contactor contacts welded or feedback switch stuck |
| Err33 | Brake feedback fault | 4 | Brake cannot open or feedback contact abnormal; check brake coil and feedback |
| Err38 | Host speed detection fault | 4 | Motor speed abnormal (overspeed or underspeed); check motor and speed sensor |
| Err39 | Anti-reversal fault | 5 | Reversal switch signal active or AB signal reversed; check switch and AB signal |
| Err43 | Stopping distance exceeded | 5 | Pulse count exceeds set value after brake release; check braking distance and pulse signal |
| Err47 | 1.4× overspeed | 5 | Motor speed exceeds 1.4× set value for 2s; verify escalator speed and settings |
Fault Information Recording and Retrieval
The system internally stores the last 11 fault codes and records the frequency, current, DC bus voltage, and digital input/output terminal status for the most recent 3 faults. Detailed fault records — including fault information, sub-codes, occurrence date/time, and various operating parameters — can be viewed through function codes F9-13 through F9-71.
Installation, Maintenance and Servicing
Installation Environment Requirements
- Ambient temperature: -10°C to +50°C (derating required for 40°C–50°C)
- Humidity: Less than 95% RH, no condensation
- Altitude: Below 1000m (derating required above 1000m)
- Vibration: Less than 5.9m/s² (0.6g)
- Storage temperature: -20°C to +60°C
The controller must be installed vertically to facilitate upward heat dissipation; it must never be mounted upside down. For 5.5kW–18.5kW models, reserve at least A ≥ 10mm above and B ≥ 100mm below; for 22kW–30kW models, A ≥ 50mm and B ≥ 100mm. Mounting brackets must be made of non-combustible material.
Daily Maintenance
Routine inspection items:
- Whether motor running sound is abnormal
- Whether motor produces excessive vibration
- Whether the installation environment has changed
- Whether the cooling fan operates normally
- Whether the controller is overheating
Daily cleaning: Keep the controller clean; effectively remove surface dust (especially metal dust) and clean oil contamination from the cooling fan.
Periodic Servicing
Periodic inspection items:
- Inspect and regularly clean the air duct
- Check for loose screws
- Inspect the controller for corrosion
- Check terminals for scraping marks
- Main circuit insulation test (use a 500V DC megger; disconnect main circuit wiring from the control unit before measurement; insulation resistance must be ≥ 5MΩ)
Consumable component replacement intervals:
| Component | Typical Lifespan | Failure Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Cooling fan | 2–3 years | Blade cracks, abnormal vibration noise |
| Filter electrolytic capacitor | 4–5 years | Fluid leakage, safety valve bulging, capacitance decrease |
Storage Requirements
Prolonged storage causes deterioration of electrolytic capacitors. The controller must be powered on at least once every 2 years for a minimum of 5 hours. The input voltage must be gradually increased to the rated value using a variable transformer (variac).
EMC Requirements
The NICE2000 new series complies with EN 61800-3:2004 Category C2. To meet EMC requirements: an external EMC input filter must be installed (cable between filter and controller must not exceed 30cm); shielded cables with braiding density ≥ 90% must be used; motor cables must be separated from other cables by at least 0.5m; an AC input reactor is recommended to suppress harmonics.
Conclusion
The NICE2000 new escalator integrated controller has established itself as an industry benchmark in the escalator control domain, thanks to its innovative bypass variable-frequency technology, universal sync/async motor drive capability, comprehensive safety detection functions, and robust fault protection system. Mastering the three-level menu operation of the control panel, the configuration logic of 13 function parameter groups, the wiring specifications for main circuit and control boards, the application scenarios of four operation modes, the standard commissioning procedure, and the diagnostic methods for nearly 50 fault codes constitutes essential expertise for every escalator maintenance engineer.
In practical engineering applications, it is recommended that technical personnel — on the basis of thoroughly reading the manual and in conjunction with the systematic framework presented in this article — follow the principle of “inspect before powering, run inspection before fast speed, tune before operation” and execute each commissioning step in a standardized manner. Furthermore, establishing a regular maintenance schedule with particular attention to the replacement intervals of consumable components such as cooling fans and electrolytic capacitors will ensure the long-term safe and stable operation of the escalator system. The national unified service hotline is 400-777-1260; for difficult problems, contact the manufacturer’s technical support promptly.