Siemens SINAMICS V20 VFD Parameter Settings and Wiring Diagram for External Control

Siemens SINAMICS V20 VFD Parameter Settings for External Start/Stop, Trip Relay Configuration, and Potentiometer Speed Control⚙️.

Introduction

  • The Siemens SINAMICS V20 Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) is widely used for controlling AC motor speed in industrial automation and HVAC applications. Proper parameter configuration and wiring are essential for reliable operation, safe commissioning, and efficient motor control.
  • In this article, we will discuss the Siemens SINAMICS V20 VFD parameter settings for external Start/Stop control, trip relay configuration, and potentiometer-based speed control. We will also cover the wiring connections, installation requirements, and important operating conditions to help you configure the drive correctly.

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Siemens SINAMICS V20 VFD parameter settings

⚠️ Disclaimer-1

This article has been prepared for educational and informational purposes. Some content was refined with the assistance of AI for grammar, readability, and organization. The technical information, parameter settings, wiring details, and explanations have been researched and verified by the author using official Siemens documentation and other reliable technical references. Always verify parameter settings and wiring before commissioning equipment, as requirements may vary depending on the application and drive version.

cht-toc

Siemens V20 Drive Overview

  • The Siemens SINAMICS V20 is a series of variable frequency drives (VFDs) designed to control the speed of three-phase asynchronous (induction) motors.
  • The three-phase 400 V AC models are available in five frame sizes, from Frame Size A (FSA) to Frame Size E (FSE).
  • The single-phase 230 V AC models are available in three frame sizes: Frame Size A (FSA), Frame Size B (FSB), and Frame Size C (FSC).
Three phase AC 400 V variants and Single phase AC 230 V variants
  • The SINAMICS V20 Flat Plate variant is designed to allow greater flexibility in the installation of the inverter.
  • Compact design, side-by-side mounting and flexible device installation for both wall mounting and push-through mounting.
  • Typical applications are Pumping, ventilating and compressing such as: Centrifugal pumps, Radial/axial fans, Compressors, Belt conveyors, Roller conveyors, Chain conveyors and more.

Application Overview

These Siemens V20 VFD drive parameter settings are intended for the following functions:

Siemens V20 VFD Drive Application Overview

  1. Manual ON/OFF operation using external START and STOP push buttons.
  2. Trip indication lamp to provide a visual warning or alarm indication during abnormal operating conditions.
  3. External RESET push button for resetting VFD warnings or alarms.
  4. External potentiometer for adjusting the VFD output frequency and controlling the motor speed.

Required Components

Siemens SINAMICS V20 VFD, START Push Button (NO) with element, STOP Push Button (NC) with element, RESET Push Button with NO element, 10 kฮฉ Linear Potentiometer, Indicator or Trip Lamp, Emergency Stop (Optional), Auto/Manual Selector Switch, two changeover Relay, Single pole MCB for control supply, three pole MCB for VFD drive power, Contactor (if required), Control Cable, Shielded (power) Signal Cable.

๐Ÿ“Important Note

  • The Siemens V20 VFD does not have a built-in input or output choke.
  • It is recommended to install an input choke to improve the drive's performance and protect the electrical supply.
  • An output choke is optional and is typically used only when required by the application, such as for long motor cable lengths or to reduce motor voltage stress.
Siemens V20 VFD does not have a built-in input or output choke

Benefits of an Input Choke

  • Reduces harmonic current.
  • Improves the power factor.
  • Helps protect the VFD from supply disturbances.
  • Recommended when the RMS input current is higher than the rated input current of the VFD.

Siemens V20 Drive Terminal Description

  • Terminal 1: +10 V DC Output Supply. 
  • Terminal 2: Analog Input 1 (AI1) - 0 to 10 V. 
  • Terminal 5: 0 V Common (COM) for Analog Inputs and Outputs. 
  • Terminal 8: Digital Input 1 (DI1). 
  • Terminal 10: Digital Input 3 (DI3). 
  • Terminal 12: Digital Input Common (DIC). 
  • Terminal 13: +24 V DC Output Supply. 
  • Terminal 14: 0 V Common. 
  • Terminal 18: Digital Output Normally Open (DO-NO) Contact. 
  • Terminal 19: Digital Output Common (DO-COM) Contact.
Siemens V20 Parameter Settings

Wiring Description

External START/STOP Push Button Wiring

  • Take the +24 V DC output from Terminal 13 and connect it through the START/STOP push button to Terminal 8 (DI1 – Digital Input 1).

External Alarm RESET Push Button Wiring

  • Connect the +24 V DC output from Terminal 13 to one side of the external RESET push button (Normally Open). Connect the other side of the RESET push button to Terminal 10 (DI3 – Digital Input 3). Pressing this push button resets VFD alarms, faults, and warning messages.

External Speed Control Potentiometer Wiring

  • Connect the +10 V DC output from Terminal 1 to one end of the potentiometer. Connect the potentiometer output to the NC (Normally Closed) contact of the external two-changeover relay.
  • Connect the 0–10 V analog output from the PLC controller to the NO (Normally Open) contact of the external two-changeover relay.
  • Connect the COM (Common) terminal of the two-changeover relay to Terminal 2 (AI1 – Analog Input 1) of the VFD. This provides the selected analog speed reference to the drive.
  • The two-changeover relay is used to switch the analog speed reference between the manual mode (potentiometer) and auto mode (PLC controller).
  • Short Terminal 12 (DIC) and Terminal 14 (0 V Common) on the VFD as required for the digital input common connection.
  • Connect the 0 V (Common) terminals of the PLC controller, potentiometer, and VFD drive together to maintain a common reference.
Siemens SINAMICS V20 VFD External Alarm RESET Push Button Wiring

๐Ÿ“Note 

If you are using an Auto/Manual selector with a relay for reference control, follow the wiring steps above. If you only need Manual mode with speed control through the potentiometer, the relay is not required. Simply connect the potentiometer as follows:

  • Connect VFD Terminal 1 (+10 VDC) to Potentiometer Terminal 3. 
  • Connect VFD Terminal 5 (Analog Input Common) to Potentiometer Terminal 1. 
  • Connect Potentiometer Terminal 2 (regulated output) to VFD Terminal 2 (AI1 – Analog Input). 
  • This wiring allows the motor speed to be adjusted directly using the external potentiometer.

Trip Signal Wiring

  • To indicate the VFD Trip Status, supply 230 V AC to Terminal 19 (DO-COM) and take the output from Terminal 18 (DO-NO) to the external trip indication circuit (such as a lamp or relay).

๐Ÿ“Note

  • All the wiring connections described above are shown in the wiring diagram below. If you have any doubts, please refer to the drawing for clarification.
QElectroTech software
  • This wiring diagram was created using QElectroTech software. If you would like to learn more about this software, click the link below.

๐Ÿ“œ QElectro Tech Software: Free Electrical Diagram Tool – Full Overview & Guide

Pre-Commissioning Inspection Checklist

After completing all the required wiring as shown in the wiring diagram, perform the following inspections before switching on the VFD.

Wiring

  • Verify that all control wiring is connected correctly according to the wiring diagram.
  • Inspect the control wiring for any damaged or broken wires and ensure that all terminal connections are secure.
  • Ensure that the control wiring is routed separately from the power and motor cables to minimize electrical noise.
Power Wiring
  • Separate the control cables from the power cables as much as possible.
  • Verify that the control signal voltage sources are correct, if applicable.
  • Use shielded cables or twisted-pair cables for control wiring whenever possible, and ensure that the cable shields are properly terminated.
  • Ensure that the motor cables and control cables are separated, shielded, or installed in separate metallic conduits to reduce high-frequency interference.
  • Keep the connecting cables away from rotating mechanical parts.

Switchgears

  • Make sure that the motor is configured for the correct supply voltage.
  • Check that all fuses and circuit breakers are correctly rated and in good working condition.
  • Ensure that all fuses are securely installed and that all circuit breakers are in the OFF (Open) position before applying power.
  • Do not rely on the conduit or the mounting panel as the protective earth connection.
Check that all fuses and circuit breakers in VFD 
  • A dedicated grounding conductor must be used.
  • Check the power wiring and ensure that the mains supply cables and motor cables are installed separately and that all power terminal connections are tight.
  • Verify that all switches, disconnectors, and isolators are in the correct operating position.

Other Conditions

  • Verify that all grounding (earthing) connections are secure, clean, and free from corrosion or oxidation.
  • Ensure that there is sufficient clearance above and below the VFD to allow proper airflow for cooling.
Pre-Commissioning Inspection Checklist-3
  • Inspect the inside of the VFD to ensure it is free from dust, metal chips, moisture, and corrosion.
  • Verify that the VFD is securely mounted on a clean, unpainted metal surface to ensure proper grounding and heat dissipation.
  • Mount the inverter vertically to a flat and non-combustible surface.

After completing the above inspection and confirming that all wiring and connections are correct, switch on the VFD and configure the parameters according to the settings provided in the following section.

Siemens V20 Drive Parameter Configuration

๐Ÿ“‚Parameter

⚙️Setting

๐Ÿ“Description

P0003

1

Standard: Allows access into most frequently used parameters

P0010

30

Factory setting

P0970

1

Resets all parameters

P0010

1

Quick commissioning

P0100

0

Europe [kW], motor base frequency is 50 Hz

P0301

22

Rated motor KW [KW]

P0304

415

Rated motor voltage [V]

P0305

35

Rated motor current [A]

P0307

22

Rated motor power

P0308

0.82

Rated motor cosฯ†

P0310

50

Rated motor frequency [Hz]

P0311

1450

Rated motor speed [RPM]

P0700

2

Terminal

P1000

2

Analog setpoint

P1080

0

Minimum frequency [Hz]

P1082

50

Maximum frequency [Hz]

P1120

30

Ramp-up time [s]

P1121

30

Ramp-down time [s]

P3900

1

End quick commissioning with factory reset

ssP0003

3

Expert: For expert use only

P0010

0

Ready

P0701

1

ON / OFF1

P0731

52.3

BI: Function of digital output 1

P0732

52.7

BI: Function of digital output 2

P0758

0%

Value y1 of analog input scaling [%]

P0760

100%

Value y2 of analog input scaling [%]

P1210

 

Restart after mains brownout, P1211 enabled

6

Restart after mains brown- /blackout or fault, P1211 enabled

P1211

3 (or)

Number of restart attempts

5

 

๐Ÿ“Important Note

Parameters P1210 and P1211 only need to be configured if you want the VFD to restart automatically after a power failure.

These All-parameter settings are suitable for:

  1. Manual Start/Stop mode
  2. Automatic frequency control mode
  3. Potentiometer speed control mode

The operating mode depends on the selected 0–10 V DC analog control signal.

Commissioning Tips

  • In the Motor Parameter Settings section, enter the motor specifications exactly as shown on the motor nameplate to ensure proper operation and optimum performance.
motor nameplate to ensure proper operation
  • Enter the parameters exactly as shown in the table to avoid malfunctions and other operating errors.
  • These parameter settings are suitable only for manual ON/OFF operation and manual frequency control using an external potentiometer.

Applications

These settings are suitable for: Pumps, Fans, Blowers, Compressors, Conveyors, Cooling Towers, AHUs, Industrial Machines.

⚠️Disclaimer-2

This guide is intended for educational and reference purposes. Parameter values and wiring configurations may vary depending on the Siemens SINAMICS V20 model, firmware version, and application requirements. Always refer to the official Siemens SINAMICS V20 Operating Instructions and safety documentation before installation, parameter configuration, or commissioning.

Conclusion

  • The Siemens SINAMICS V20 VFD offers flexible control options for industrial motor applications through external push buttons, relay outputs, and analog speed references. 
  • By following the correct wiring practices and parameter settings described in this guide, you can achieve reliable Start/Stop control, accurate potentiometer-based speed adjustment, and effective fault indication during commissioning. 
  • Always verify the wiring and parameter configuration before energizing the drive to ensure safe and efficient operation.

๐Ÿ“บVideo Playlist Link

For a step-by-step guide on entering the parameter settings in the Siemens SINAMICS V20 VFD, watch the video below for a better understanding and easier commissioning.

▶️ SIEMENS VFD DRIVE PLAYLIST

Recommended Technical Guides๐Ÿ“š 

  1. Siemens RWD Series Controller Full Parameter Guide for HVAC Systems
  2. Siemens PXM40 HMI Touch Panel Commissioning: A Step-by-Step Guide with Images.
  3. VFD Fault Diagnosis and Troubleshooting Guide
  4. Danfoss FC-301 VFD Parameter Settings with Wiring Diagram

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)❓

1. How do I configure the Siemens SINAMICS V20 for external Start/Stop control?

Configure the required digital input parameters and connect the external Start and Stop push buttons according to the wiring diagram.

2. Which terminals are used for potentiometer speed control?

Use Terminal 1 (+10 VDC), Terminal 2 (AI1), and Terminal 5 (Analog Input Common).

3. Can the Siemens V20 relay output be used for trip indication?

Yes. The relay output can be configured to activate during a fault condition and drive an external trip indicator lamp or alarm.

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