If your launch monitor displays an error code or shows a red LED indicator, it means the device detected a hardware or startup fault.
Most error codes can be cleared by restarting the device, but certain types — specifically C errors and L errors — are considered critical hardware issues.
This article explains what those errors mean, how to troubleshoot them, and when to request service.
What Error Codes Mean
Error codes appear on devices that have a display screen, such as GCQuad, QuadMAX, GC3, and Launch Pro.
Each code begins with a letter followed by numbers (for example, C13 or L25).
The letter indicates the hardware area involved:
C errors – Related to the infrared cameras inside the device. These cameras capture ball and club data during a shot. A C error means one or more of these cameras failed to initialize or communicate properly.
L errors – Related to the infrared LED boards that illuminate the hitting area. A failure in these LEDs prevents proper lighting and camera function.
Other error types (like O, P, or W) – Typically minor or temporary communication issues. These usually clear after a restart and are not considered critical.
While most error codes are temporary, C and L errors are often indicators of hardware failure and will require inspection if they persist.
Step 1: Restart the Device
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Power the device off completely.
For models with a screen, hold the power button until the display goes dark.
For ceiling-mounted devices like Falcon or GCHawk, press the rear power button or disconnect the power cable.
Wait 10 to 30 seconds before powering the device back on.
Observe the startup behavior or LED indicator.
If the device starts normally and the error code disappears, you can continue normal use.
Step 2: Identify the Error
If the error reappears:
C Error (Infrared Camera Failure):
The internal camera array did not initialize or failed to sync during startup. This may occur after voltage fluctuations or firmware communication errors.
Restart the device once more. If the C error remains, the device will need to be returned for service.L Error (Infrared LED Failure):
The LED illumination boards that light the hitting area did not activate or failed to respond. Without these LEDs, the cameras cannot detect the ball.
Restart the device once more. If the L error remains, the device will need to be returned for service.Other Error Codes:
Restart the device. If the code clears and operation returns to normal, no further action is required. If any code persists, contact support for review.
Step 3: Red LED on Ceiling-Mounted Devices
For ceiling-mounted devices (Falcon or GCHawk), a solid red LED indicator typically means a C or L error.
These devices do not show error codes on-screen.
If your Falcon or GCHawk shows a red LED:
Power the device off or disconnect it from AC power.
Wait one to three minutes.
Reconnect the power and test again.
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If the red LED remains, connect the device to a PC and run the Foresight Hardware Diagnostic Tool.
The tool can pull logs or display asserted failure codes that confirm a C or L error.
If the red LED or failure codes persist, the device will require RMA service.
Step 4: When to Request Service
You will need to submit an RMA if:
The same C or L error appears again after restarting.
The device remains in a red LED state after power cycling.
The Hardware Diagnostic Tool shows asserted failure codes.
When submitting your request:
Include your device model and serial number.
List the error code displayed (for example, C13 or L25).
Briefly describe what happened before the issue occurred.
Attach a photo or short video showing the error or LED indicator.
Your best shipping address
FAQs
Q: My device showed a C error once, but it’s gone now. Is that bad?
A: Not necessarily. If the error cleared after a restart and the device works normally, it was likely a temporary initialization fault. You can continue using it normally.
Q: What causes an L error?
A: L errors occur when the infrared LED lighting system fails to activate or communicate with the mainboard. This can be caused by voltage fluctuations, firmware issues, or LED hardware failure.
Q: Can I fix a C or L error myself?
A: You can attempt a restart, but if the error reappears, it’s a hardware-level fault that requires professional service.
Q: My Falcon or GCHawk only shows a red LED — no code. What should I do?
A: Connect it to the Hardware Diagnostic Tool to confirm if a C or L error is present. A red LED on these devices almost always indicates one of those two issues.
Still need help? Submit a Request