I've been working on getting a Virginia Controls controller that's been out of service for quite a while running, but can't seem to find anyone with a copy of the manual. Its 2-stop Micro Hydro with a GE Fanuc 90-30 PLC, controller dated 1996 (I believe it would be an MH-1, listed on controller tag as 'MH Elevator Controller'). If anyone has one, or can point me in the direction of one, I would greatly appreciate it! I was able to get some info that helped off of the manuals on the Virginia Controls website, but all of them seem to be for newer versions.

Have you called them? Va controls are some great folks. Easy to get ahold of. Have the controller job number when you call, that's all.

I actually have not ever had to speak with their tech support, but that’s good to know when I go back. I was looking for some material to go over assuming if I called I might be in a “we’ll call you back at some point, or not at all” situation. Thanks for the reply!

If your familiar with their mh3000 controllers you'll feel right at home working on the GE fanuc. The terminal designations etc were copied when they made the mh3000 and the prints are so close you could almost use them interchangeablely. They use PLC modules with the fanuc for inputs/outputs vs input/output boards with a microprocessor on the mh3000. That is the funny thing with VA controls, their stuffs so reliable and straight forward you almost never need to call them. But they can get you prints and whatnot. They'll have a lady take your info when you call just like MCE, then an engineer will call you back.

Speaking from experience, most of those older fanuc Era controllers had no potential contactor for the motor. If the delta welds, it's going to be a very bad day. Definitely pull that contactor apart and check the contacts in it.


It reminds me of the old heavy cast iron bulletproof age of elevators. Companies like Salem and Monarch essentially putting themselves out of business by building such quality long lasting elevators that never broke, nobody needed to buy another or parts.