• What Does It Mean When A Samsung Microwave Says Se
• What Does It Mean When A Microwave Says Sending
• What Does It Mean When A Microwave Says Served
• What Does It Mean When Your Microwave Says Sensor Error

Microwave Error, Fault or Function Codes. Fault codes are programmed in all microwave oven controls. These codes help our technicians quickly diagnose issues with the microwave oven. In the event that the electronic control displays a fault code, a trained Service Technician should be called to diagnose and correct the issue. The SE error code iss often mistakenly referred to as 5E. It occurs when a key on the keypad is pressed continuously or shorted. It is very dangerous, because your microwave may start running on its own and cause fire. If you ssee this code on your microwave’s display, unplug it right away and do not plug it baack in until you fix the problem.

OFFICIAL SAMSUNG MICROWAVE OVEN 'SE' / '5E' ERROR REPAIR INFORMATION, FULL MODEL LIST, & PART NUMBERS (back to home page)

Please share this page's link on Facebook. • • updated October 24, 2018 • (service manual & part ordering links below)

BEWARE BOGUS REPAIR TIPS!

There are many 'tips' and videos online which depict cleaning methods and paper inserts as solutions. These methods only work if there is moisture or grease or damage in the areas the tips highlight. Many folks are fooled into thinking these 'solutions' work because the 'SE' problem can be intermittent until it fails for good.

Unless there is grease or moisture, etc. on the control circuit board or keypad strip, the ' SE ' error means you have a shorting membrane keypad. Sometimes they can be intermittent, but replacement is the only solution.

Samsung has released an official service bulletin detailing the only correct repair procedure for the listed models of microwaves when they develop an intermittent or constant ' SE ' error (sometimes erroneously called a ' 5E ' error).

Easy to understand, comprehensive list of Samsung microwave error codes. If you refer to this chart, it may save you the cost of a service call. Microwave Sensor Cooking Definitions. If a microwave has sensor controls, it is not necessary to touch 'Start' after depressing the pad. The sensor detects the steam emitted by the cooking food and automatically adjusts the cooking time.

NOTE: The information in this bulletin supersedes all relevant information found in each affected model's service manual.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

The ' SE ' error is reported by the microwave's software whenever one or more keys on the keypad are pressed or shorted for more than 60 seconds. An 'SE' condition can result in the microwave oven running on its own, which can result (and has allegedly resulted) in house fires. So until your oven is repaired, please leave it unplugged, or at the very least, leave the door open so it can't run.

And before you begin working on your microwave or any other electrical item, read my important safety information and also note that, in Samsung's words:

'This information is published for informational purposes only and intended for use only by personnel qualified for the specific tasks depicted. Qualified personnel are those who, based on their training and experience, are capable of identifying risks and avoiding potential hazards when handling or servicing a product. Only qualified personnel should repair products powered by electricity. Any attempt to handle, service or repair the product or products by anyone other than qualified personnel could result in serious injury or death. You agree that your use of and reliance on this information is at your sole risk. This information is subject to change or update without notice. There are no warranties, either expressed or implied, regarding the accuracy or completeness of this information.'

MODEL NUMBER NOTES

Your full model number is normally located on a tag inside the cooking cavity. Note the difference between a model number and a model code. When you remove your control panel assembly, if the model code tag on the keypad strip says something other than ' XAA ' please contact me before ordering parts. The model code tag is found on the keypad's connector strip, and is visible only when the control panel assembly has been removed.

model code tag - click for full-sized

NOTE: If you can't see the label on your keypad strip, you may need to remove the board from the metal frame, then remove the metal frame. How-to video here.

model number & FCC ID tag - click for full-sized

If your model number is not listed and you need help, or there is a mistake, please... contact me at no charge but please do not call. Instead e-mail me for free technical help and please include the full model number and FCC ID number from the tag of your oven, plus your detailed symptoms, and also when they happen. Click the mail link at the top right of my home page to contact me. (If you call, there's no easy way to communicate the information you need, especially the photos and links I'll provide you!)

The list below shows each model number affected, and to its right is the part number you need to order. If a model number is underlined in red, you can click the link to download that model's service manual for even more precise disassembly and repair information for other problems.

ORDERING PARTS TO DO IT YOURSELF - PART ORDER PAGE

You can order appliance parts and accessories from several sources, but here are my favorites*, in order of preference: Appliance Parts Pros, Sears Parts Direct, and Encompass. (You can check all three for the best price and availability.)

FIND YOUR MODEL AND PART NUMBER BELOW

1. find your model number from the tag in or on your oven (you can search this page using Ctrl-F or Cmd-F)
2. copy the part number next to your model number
3. paste your part number in part search box on the PART ORDER PAGE

SMH1611B DE94-02411A
SMH1611P DE94-02411C
SMH1611S DE94-02411D
SMH1611W DE94-02411B
SMH1622B DE94-02411A
SMH1622S DE94-02411D
SMH1622W DE94-02411B
SMH1713B DE94-02411E
SMH1713W DE94-02411F
SMH1713S DE94-02411G
SMH1816B DE94-02517A
SMH1816W DE94-02517B
SMH1816S DE94-02517C
SMH7174BC DE94-00939D similar service manual **
SMH7174WC DE94-00939E similar service manual **
SMH7174BE DE94-00939N similar service manual **
SMH7174WE DE94-00939P similar service manual **
SMH7185BG DE94-01614A similar service manual 1 ** | similar service manual 2 **
SMH7185WG DE94-01614B similar service manual 1 | ** similar service manual 2 **
SMH7185STG DE94-01614C service manual 1 | service manual 2 ***
SMH7187STG DE94-01614C similar service manual **
SMH8165B DE94-01806A service manual
SMH8165W DE94-01806B service manual
SMH8165ST DE94-01806C service manual 1 | service manual 2 ***
SMH8165STE DE94-01806C service manual
SMH9151B DE94-01806H service manual 1 | service manual 2 *** | service manual 3 ***
SMH9151W DE94-01806J service manual 1 | service manual 2 ***
SMH9151S DE94-01806K service manual
SMH9151ST DE94-01806L similar service manual **
^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ (NOTE: If the Pros don't have this part anymore, Sears had it last time I checked.)
SMH9151BE DE94-01806M service manual 1 | service manual 2 ***
SMH9151WE DE94-01806N service manual
SMH9151STE DE94-01806P service manual
SMH9187B DE94-02001A service manual
SMH9187W DE94-02001B service manual 1 |service manual 2 ***
SMH9187ST DE94-02001C service manual
SMK9175ST DE94-01407D

On the following models, you don't replace the frame assembly, instead you can replace either the membrane switch or the door assembly, your choice:

SMH9207ST DE34-00333A membrane switch (ref. C004) OR DE94-02095A door assembly (ref. D049) service manual | replacing membrane keypads (general info)

** a 'similar service manual' will be helpful for safety warnings and disassembly help, but part numbers may differ from yours - always use part number on this page

*** additional service manuals may contain more information than the first, but part numbers may differ from yours - always use part number on this page

DISASSEMBLY TIPS & NOTES

See the safety information near the top first!

My (old but helpful) video below shows you how to remove the control panel assembly from most over the range microwave oven brands.

But on these and other Samsung and GE models, if you have any trouble getting the grille off once the screws are removed, slide the hood vent grille to the left about 1/4', then then pull it forward. (On some models there are L-shaped clips that fit into a slot to hold bottom of the vent.)

Be careful unlocking and disconnecting the keypad strip. Other connectors have locks, too.

Once your board is out of your old control panel frame, move it to the panel assembly, but be careful since the display is made of glass. If you break the glass, you will need a new board!

†DISCLOSURES

I have over 30 years' of experience in electronic design and repair. These really are my favorite suppliers, due to several factors such as price, inventory, warranty, return policy, etc. I am an affiliate of these suppliers, but I would recommend them even if I weren't. When you click on one of my part links and order a part or accessory, I do receive a small commission, which I appreciate as a 'thank you' for my helping you save money and effectively repair your appliances. But I am in no way affiliated with Samsung.

###

Some microwaves have built in fault codes to help us determine what may be wrong when the microwave has a problem....

Newer Panasonic Microwaves have built in fault codes....

they look like H97, H98....

Troubleshooting of Inverter Circuit (U) and Magnetron

This oven is programmed with a self diagnostics failure code system which will help for troubleshooting, H97, H98 and H99 are the provided failure magnetron and inverter circuit problem areas. This section explains failure codes of H97, H98 and H99. H97, H98 and H99 appears in display window a short time after start key is pressed and there is no microwave oscillation.

NOTE:

DO NOT try to REPAIR this Inverter Power Supply (U) and also DO NOT RE-ADJUST PRESET VOLUME on the board. It is very dangerous to repair or adjust without sufficient test equipment because this circuit handles very high voltage and very large current. Off alignment or inverter board operation is dangerous. Operating a misaligned inverter circuit is dangerous due to the very high voltage and current that is produced by this board. Defective boards must be replaced with a new one.

- Check magnetron filament for open or short to casing before proceeding to determine a good magnetron.

Alternative way to troubleshoot oven with AC Ampere meter used.

H97, H98 and H99 appears in display window a short time alter start key is pressed and no microwave oscillation with AC Ampere meter used for troubleshooting.

NOTE:

DO NOT try to REPAIR this Inverter Power Supply (U) and also DO NOT RE-ADJUST PRESET VOLUME on the board. It is very dangerous to repair or adjust without sufficient test equipment because this circuit handles very high voltage and very large current. Off alignment or inverter board operation is dangerous. Operating a misaligned inverter circuit is dangerous due to the very high voltage and current that is produced by this board. Defective boards must be replaced with a new one.

- Check magnetron filament for open or short to casing before proceeding to determine a good magnetron.

Frigidaire also has some built in fault codes for there microwaves....

they look like F3, F4....

PROBLEM: Diagnosis and Fault Codes for the FMT148GP, FMT148GI, FMT144GI, and FMB136GI that have this feature. ( there may be others )

SOLUTION: The following information is a guide for Sensor Quick Test Sensor Cooking Diagnosis, Fault 'F' Codes and Gas/Humidity sensor detection test.

SENSOR QUICK TEST SENSOR COOKING DIAGNOSIS

Simultaneously touch and hold keypads 7 & 8 and record the number showing in the display

• If the number showing is between 15 and 185 then the reading is more than likely normal; however you need to go one step further and verify by performing a 'SENSOR DETECTOR TEST'
• If the number showing in the display is higher than 213 you more than likely have on of the following problems; sensor failed open, sensor unplugged, wiring, or smart board.
• If the number showing in the display is less than 6 you more than likely have s shorted sensor, or a defective board.

FAULT 'F' CODES SENSOR SELF DIAGNOSTICS

F0 Humidity sensor program (open or shorted) at the start of cooking program. Press keypads 7 & 8 simultaneously and read sensor value showing in the display. Compare the sensor 'Quick Test' values to determine is there a problem.

F3 Shorted key panel (keypad/panel shorted for a period of over 60 seconds). You can test this feature by holding in one of the keypads for over 60 seconds - F3 will display.

F4 Open humidity sensor during cooking process. Sensor was open for a period of over 60 seconds during the cooking process.

F5 Shorted humidity sensor during cooking process. Sensor was shorted for a period of over 5 seconds during the cooking process.

GAS/HUMIDITY SENSOR DETECTION TEST

What Does It Mean When A Samsung Microwave Says Se

The Gas/Humidity sensor detects both humidity (steam) and hydrocarbons (food odors) during sensor cooking modes.

1. Place a 1/3 cup of hot water in the center of the microwave oven.
2. Push the 'VEGETABLE' pad of the key panel ('FRESH VEGGIES: will scroll across the display).
3. Push 'START'
4. Simultaneously touch keypads 7 & 8 and record diagnostic numbers in the display (example: 42)
5. The unit will begin heating the water and will display 'FRESH-VG', until it reaches humidity 'detection'. When humidity 'detection' occurs, the control will beep and begin counting down. At the end of the cycle the control will beep and oven will shut off.
6. Touch CLEAR/OFF

NOTE:

If you successfully complete steps 1 through 6 with no problems, then the humidity sensor is operating normally; however, if you encountered a problem during this test (TEST FAILED), then suspect a problem in the sensor circuit (sensor , sensor wiring/connection, control smart board).

NOTE:

Testing the sensor with an ohm meter can damage the sensor. The only portion of the sensor that should be tested with a meter is the heater. (Pins 3 & 4)

Heater resistance- approx. 30 ohms

GE also has some built in fault codes for there Microwaves....

They look like F1, F2....

F1 - ( open thermal sensor ), will occur below 190ºF of cavity temperature within 15 minutes of starting convection, combination or roast cook.

F2 - ( shorted thermal sensor ), will occur if a shorted thermal sensor is detected continuously over 5 seconds on convection, combination or roast cooking.

NOTE: it will take a minimum of 5 minutes of convection run time before F1 or F2 code will be displayed if the thermal sensor is shorted/open.

F3 - ( shorted key panel ), will occur if a shorted key panel is detected continuously over 60 seconds.

NOTE: It will take a minimum of 1 minute of run time before the F code will be displayed.

F4 ( open humidity sensor ), will occur if humidity sensor is detected as being open continuously over 5 seconds.

F5 - ( shorted humidity sensor ), will occur if humidity sensor is detected as being shorted continuously over 5 seconds.

NOTE: It will will take a minimum of 15 seconds after the magnetron is energized before the F4 or F5 code will be displayed if the humidity sensor is shorted/open. Also the unit must be plugged into a 120 volt outlet for at least 5 minutes before sensor is checked, this also applies after the humidity sensor has been changed. Before checking operation of new sensor allow init to be plugged in for at least 5 minutes.

F6 - ( shorted temperature probe ), will occur if temperature probe is detected as being open or not plugged into the receptacle. If probe is plugged in and 'ProbE' is on display, check probe for continuity with ohm meter.

NOTE: This 'F' code and 'ProbE' will happen immediately if probe is shorted/open.

TOUCH PANEL & MICROCOMPUTER BOARD TEST FOR WHIRLPOOL....

The microwave oven may be provided with a self diagnostic routine that can be operated

through the touch pad keyboard. To enter the self-diagnostic routine:

1. While pressing the CANCEL keypad:
   a) Open the oven door.
   b) Unplug the microwave oven for 2-seconds and plug it back in.
   c) Release the CANCEL keypad and close the oven door. You will see the following display.

CHART

What Does It Mean When A Microwave Says Sending

NOTE: The humidity sensor test results will appear on the display after 8-seconds.If the tests are successful, 'OK ' will be displayed. If one or more of the tests fail, 'ERR ' will be displayed.. 2.When a keypad is pressed, a number according to the test chart will be displayed. When no keypad is pressed, a blank '—' is displayed...

POWER FAILURE & FAILURE CODES

Power Failure: After a power failure, the WELCOME screen will be displayed.

F2 —Keyboard Failure: Refer to the Tech Sheet and conduct a touch panel continuity test.

F3H —Humidity Sensor Failure: Refer to the Tech Sheet and test the sensor.

F6 —Microwave Relay Failure: Check the microwave relay.

F7 —Microcomputer Board Failure: Change the microcomputer board.

Sharp commercial grade microwave codes....

What Does It Mean When A Microwave Says Served

EE Mode	Reason	Action Required
EE 1, EE 2	Magnetron failure	Call for service*
EE 3	Both magnetrons failed	Call for service.
EE 4 R-23GT, R-24GT and R-25JT only	Voltage too high	Follow instructions on page 5 of Operation Manual under VOLTAGE SELECT to change from 208V to 230V. If problem is not corrected, call an electrician.
EE 5 R-23GT, R-24GT and R-25JT only	Voltage too low	Follow instructions on page 5 of Operation Manual under VOLTAGE SELECT to change from 230V to 208V. If problem is not corrected, call an electrician.
EE 6, EE10, EE16	Thermistors failure	Call for service.
EE 7	Exhaust air temperature too high	Check that nothing is blocking air intake openings on oven back or that oven exterior is very hot. Correct. Wait a few minutes and try again. If problem persists, call for service.
EE 8	Circuit failure	Call for service.
EE 9	Maximum time is exceeded	Check page 11 in the Operation Manual. Touch STOP/CLEAR pad, and reprogram correctly.
EE 0	Fan lock error	Call for service.
EE17	Magnetron temperature too high	Touch STOP/CLEAR pad. Wait a few minutes and try again. If problem persists, call for service.

* EE 1 and EE 2: Can continue to use oven before service; however, check food carefully as additional cooking time will be needed.

Any time the EE is flashing, the servicer should be called. When EE is not flashing, check the reason and correct. Service is not necessary.

Some Kenmore codes...

F1 - Thermistor open - No heat or thermistor sensing error.

F2 - Thermistor short for cooking - No heat in 10 seconds after cooking starts.

What Does It Mean When Your Microwave Says Sensor Error

F3 - Thermistor short after cooking - Thermistor temp does not go down after cooking ends.

F4 - sensor open - Humidity sensor sensing error.

F5 - Damper switch sensing error.