Robotics in Manufacturing

Backups & recovery

Controlled Start Backup

For a technician saving system files from the File screen while the controller is in Controlled Start, capturing configuration files not accessible during normal operation.

Advanced~25 min7 steps
  1. Step 1.

    Stop production and confirm it is safe to reboot

    Coordinate with operations before taking the controller down for Controlled Start.

  2. Step 2.

    Boot into Controlled Start

    Hold PREV and NEXT while turning on the controller, then select Controlled Start from the boot menu.

  3. Step 3.

    Insert the USB drive

    Plug in a drive with enough free space for the system files backup.

  4. Step 4.

    Open the File screen

    From Controlled Start, open the File screen and set the active device to your USB drive.

  5. Step 5.

    Back up System files

    From F4 BACKUP, select the System files item to save the system files that are readable in Controlled Start.

    Caution: Do not try to make an image backup from Controlled Start. The image backup function only runs from the FILE menu when the system is in Cold Start mode, or from the boot monitor (hold F1 and F2 at power-on). Use one of those methods if you need a full image.

  6. Step 6.

    Run and confirm completion

    Wait for the backup to finish without interrupting power or removing the drive.

  7. Step 7.

    Exit Controlled Start

    Reboot the controller normally to return it to production use.

Common questions

How long does Controlled Start Backup take?
Controlled Start Backup is rated Advanced and takes about 25 minutes across 7 steps.
What tools do I need?
You will need Teach pendant, USB drive with sufficient space.
What should I do before starting?
Controller can be safely taken offline for the backup. No production is scheduled during the backup window.
What is the first step?
Stop production and confirm it is safe to reboot. Coordinate with operations before taking the controller down for Controlled Start.

Attribution

Procedure steps on this page are checked against the site's editorial safety rules and manufacturer-manual sourcing standards.

Last reviewed: 2026-07-21.

Edited by Mike Ramsey / Reliable Media.Editorial process