Operator will not run, 7‑segment display shows E1 immediately after power‑up or after a failed travel setup.

Safety first: Disconnect power to the Sommer opener before working near the rail, trolley, or door. The door is heavy and can move suddenly. Use locking pliers on the tracks to secure the door if springs are weak or unbalanced.

Step‑by‑step:

• 1. Power cycle the opener: Unplug the Sommer unit for 30 seconds, then plug it back in. Check if E1 clears. If it reappears, continue.
• 2. Inspect the door travel path: Manually release the Sommer carriage (pull the release cord) and move the door by hand. Ensure it moves smoothly from fully closed to fully open with no binding, bent tracks, or obstructions.
• 3. Check the rail and carriage: Verify the Sommer motor carriage moves freely on the rail when the door is disconnected. Look for dents in the rail, misaligned rail joints, or debris inside the rail.
• 4. Re‑engage the carriage: Reconnect the carriage to the door arm according to the Sommer manual (usually by moving the door until the carriage clicks back in).
• 5. Re‑run travel setup: Press and hold the PROGRAM/LEARN button on the Sommer head until the LED flashes, then follow the manufacturer’s procedure to set the closed and open positions. Run a full open/close cycle so the opener can learn travel and force.
• 6. If E1 persists: Inspect the motor carriage encoder wiring and connector on the control board for loose or damaged pins. If the carriage does not move at all during setup, the motor carriage or control board may be defective and should be replaced.

When to stop: If the door is hard to move by hand or springs appear broken, stop and call a professional door technician before attempting further setup.