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Error code reference

Amana Microwave Error Code PCE1

Checksum error

Amana codesAmana microwave codes

Checksum error – check permanent memory; indicates possible corruption of stored data.

First step from the service manual

Unplug oven for one minute, reconnect, and retest. If error persists, replace inoperative low voltage board.

The complete diagnostic procedure includes additional test steps, resistance specifications, wiring diagram references, and component test points.

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What PCE1 means on a Amana microwave

The PCE1 error code on an Amana microwave indicates a checksum error in the unit's permanent memory, typically the non-volatile memory (NVM) or EEPROM stored on the low voltage control board. A checksum is a calculated value used by the control system to verify that stored data has not been corrupted. When the microcontroller reads the stored configuration data and the checksum does not match the expected value, it flags the PCE1 fault to alert the technician that the data integrity of permanent memory has been compromised.

Permanent memory in a microwave control board stores critical operational parameters, user settings, and calibration data. Corruption of this stored data can occur due to power surges, momentary power interruptions during a write cycle, or gradual failure of the memory cells on the low voltage board. In some cases, the corruption is transient and can be cleared by removing power from the unit entirely, which allows the control system to reinitialize.

The primary diagnostic approach is to unplug the microwave for a full minute, then reconnect power and retest the unit. This power cycle gives the control board an opportunity to reset and re-verify memory. If the PCE1 error returns after this reset, the low voltage control board itself is considered inoperative and must be replaced. There is no field-level repair for corrupted EEPROM on these boards, as the memory chip is integrated into the board assembly.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of PCE1

  1. 01

    Transient power interruption or surge

    Wiring / connection

    A brief power outage or voltage spike can corrupt data being written to permanent memory on the control board. This is the most common trigger and is often resolved by a full power cycle.

  2. 02

    Failed or degraded low voltage control board

    Part replacement

    If the memory cells on the low voltage board have deteriorated, the stored checksum data will not match on verification, causing a persistent PCE1 fault that does not clear after unplugging.

  3. 03

    Corrupted EEPROM from repeated write failures

    Part replacement

    Over time, EEPROM memory cells can wear out and fail to retain data correctly. This results in a checksum mismatch every time the board powers up, making the error permanent without board replacement.

  4. 04

    Incomplete power cycle at installation or service

    Wiring / connection

    If the unit was not fully de-energized during a previous repair or installation, the control board may have written incomplete data to memory, triggering the checksum error on the next boot.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about PCE1

What does PCE1 mean on a Amana microwave?
PCE1 is a checksum error indicating that the microwave's permanent memory has detected corrupted or mismatched stored data. The control board runs a verification check on its stored parameters at startup, and when the checksum fails, it displays PCE1. This fault points directly to the low voltage control board's non-volatile memory. It may be a temporary glitch caused by a power event, or it may indicate a failing board.
Will unplugging my Amana microwave reset the PCE1 error?
Unplugging the microwave for at least one full minute is the recommended first step and can resolve PCE1 if the memory corruption was caused by a transient power event. After reconnecting power, test the unit to see if the error returns. If PCE1 comes back immediately after the power cycle, the low voltage control board has a permanent fault and will need to be replaced.
Is it safe to use my Amana microwave when it shows PCE1?
A PCE1 error means the control board cannot verify the integrity of its stored operational data, which means the microwave may not function reliably or as intended. It is best to avoid using the unit until the error is resolved. Attempting to operate a microwave with a known control board fault could lead to unpredictable behavior.
How much does it cost to fix a PCE1 error on an Amana microwave?
If the error clears after a simple power cycle, there is no parts cost involved. If the low voltage control board needs to be replaced, parts alone typically range from $50 to $150 depending on the specific model, with professional labor adding $75 to $150 on top of that. The total repair cost can sometimes approach the value of an older unit, so it is worth comparing repair cost against replacement before proceeding.
Can I replace the low voltage board myself to fix PCE1?
Replacing the low voltage control board is a task that a knowledgeable DIYer with appliance repair experience can perform, provided the microwave is fully unplugged and the high voltage capacitor is safely discharged before any work begins. Microwave capacitors can hold a lethal charge even after the unit is unplugged, so this step is critical. If you are not familiar with high voltage appliance safety procedures, professional service is strongly recommended.

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