SmartGen EP4300 EP4301

SmartGen EP4300 EP4301 Generator Engine Controller Module User Manual

Model: EP4300, EP4301 | Brand: SmartGen

1. Introduction

The SmartGen EP4300 and EP4301 are advanced engine controller modules designed for the control and data display of various engines, particularly electronic control engines (CAN instruments). These modules facilitate essential functions such as engine start/stop, precise speed control, comprehensive data measurement, and clear alarm display.

Equipped with a vibrant 4.3-inch color LCD, the controller supports both Chinese and English displays, making it versatile for a wide range of engine automation systems. Its robust design and intuitive interface ensure reliable performance and ease of use in demanding environments.

Front view of the SmartGen EP4300 Generator Engine Controller Module
Front view of the SmartGen EP4300 Generator Engine Controller Module

2. Safety Information

Please read all safety instructions carefully before installation and operation. Failure to follow these instructions may result in property damage, personal injury, or death.

  • Ensure all power sources are disconnected before installation or maintenance.
  • Only qualified personnel should perform installation and wiring.
  • Verify all wiring connections are correct and secure to prevent short circuits or malfunctions.
  • Protect the controller from moisture, extreme temperatures, and corrosive environments.
  • Do not attempt to repair or modify the controller; refer to authorized service personnel.

3. Components and Overview

3.1 Front Panel

EP4300 Front Panel Indication Diagram
Fig. 1 - EP4300 Front Panel Indication

The front panel features a 4.3-inch color LCD and various control elements:

  • Indicators: Alarm Indication, Running Status, Comm Indication, Power Indication.
  • Controls: Four User-defined Buttons (1-4) and a central Knob.

Note on Panel Indicators:

  • Alarm Indication: The icon flashes during the start process. After crank disconnect and before the ETS solenoid is held, the running status icon will rotate.
  • Comm Indication: When communicating normally with a PC, the icon will show in turns and dynamically.
  • Power Indication: Always illuminates when the unit is powered on.

3.2 Rear Panel Connections

Rear view of the SmartGen EP4300 controller showing port labels
Rear view of the SmartGen EP4300 controller with port labels
Rear view of the SmartGen EP4301 controller showing port labels
Rear view of the SmartGen EP4301 controller with port labels

The rear panel provides various connection ports for sensors, communication, and auxiliary functions:

  • Sensors: SENSOR 1, SENSOR 2, SENSOR 3
  • Magnetic Pick-up: MP1, MP2
  • Power/Ground: D+, VDUT (+5V), GND, B+
  • Communication: CAN H, CAN L, RS485, USB
  • Auxiliary: AUX INPUT 1, AUX INPUT 2, AUX INPUT 3, AUX OUTPUT 1, AUX OUTPUT 2, AUX OUTPUT 3

4. Installation and Setup

4.1 Fixing Clips and Dimensions

EP4300 Exploded View and Fixing Clips
Fig. 5 - EP4300 Exploded View for Installation

The controller features a built-in design and is fixed using a pressure frame. Follow these steps for installation:

  1. Remove the pressure frame from the controller.
  2. Remove the four M4 bolts and place them in the corresponding slots of the front shell.
  3. Place the controller into the designated opening of the control cabinet.
  4. Align the pressure frame behind the controller using the four bolts.
  5. Install and tighten the flat washers, spring washers, and hexagonal nuts respectively.
EP4300 Overall Dimensions and Panel Cutout Diagram
Fig. 6 - Overall Dimensions and Panel Cutout (Unit: mm)

4.2 Wiring Connections

EP4300 Typical Application Diagram
Fig. 4 - EP4300 Typical Application Diagram

Refer to the typical application diagram for correct wiring. The following table outlines specific wiring configurations:

Table 29 - Mode Wiring Connection
ModeWiring Description
Start/Stop ModeThe output ports need to be configured as fuel and start outputs. AUX. sensor 2 needs to be configured as an oil pressure sensor.
OthersNo special configuration.

4.3 Commissioning

Commissioning instructions for SmartGen EP4300/EP4301
Commissioning Instructions

Before commissioning, perform the following checks:

  • Ensure all wiring connections are correct and the wire diameter is suitable.
  • Verify that the controller DC power has a fuse, and the controller's positive and negative terminals, along with the starter battery, are correctly connected.
  • To prevent the engine from cranking successfully during initial checks, take appropriate actions (e.g., temporarily remove the connection wire of the fuel valve). Once checks are complete, power on the start battery.
  • Press the "start" button. The engine should attempt to start. If a "Start Failure" signal is sent after the set cranking times, press "stop" to reset the controller.
  • Restore the action to allow the engine to crank successfully (e.g., connect the fuel valve wire).
  • Press the start button again. The engine should start. If everything proceeds normally, the engine will run after idle running (if idle run is configured). During this phase, closely monitor the engine's running situation. If any abnormality occurs, stop the engine and re-check all wiring connections as per this manual.
  • For any further questions, please contact SmartGen's service.

5. Operation

5.1 Menu Navigation

Configuration Interface and Menu Table
Table 6 - Menu Button Functions

The controller's menu is navigated using the buttons and knob:

ControlDescription
Button 1Return/Cancel
Button 2Menu
Button 3Button 3 (User-defined)
Button 4Button 4 (User-defined)
Knob ButtonEnter/Exit Menu
KnobSelect Menu Item

5.2 Working Mode

Working Mode Button Functions Table
Table 7 - Working Mode Button Functions

The buttons also control various working modes:

ControlDescription
Button 1Return/Cancel
Button 2Button 2 (User-defined)
Button 3Button 3 (User-defined)
Button 4Button 4 (User-defined)
Knob ButtonEnter/Exit Menu
KnobSelect Menu Item

5.3 Instrument Display

Instrument Display Button Functions Table
Table 8 - Instrument Display Button Functions

When viewing instrument data, the buttons have the following functions:

ControlDescription
Button 1Button 1 (User-defined)
Button 2Button 2 (User-defined)
Button 3Button 3 (User-defined)
Button 4Button 4 (User-defined)
Knob ButtonEnter Menu
KnobScreen Scroll

5.4 Idle/Rated Speed Control

Idle/Rated Speed Control Button Functions Table
Table 9 - Idle/Rated Speed Button Functions

For idle and rated speed adjustments:

ControlDescription
Button 1Idle Speed (Available to set)
Button 2Rated Speed (Available to set)
Button 3Button 3 (User-defined)
Button 4Button 4 (User-defined)
Knob ButtonEnter Menu
KnobScreen Scroll

Function Description: One-touch sending the idle speed or rated speed. Press the button to send data, and the button will flash (Active for ECU engine).

5.5 Speed Controller Operation

Speed Controller Button Functions Table
Table 10 - Speed Controller Button Functions

To operate the speed controller:

ControlDescription
Button 1Idle Speed (Available to set)
Button 2Turn Left
Button 3Turn Right
Button 4Speed Controller Enable/Speed Controller Exhibit
Knob ButtonEnter Menu
KnobSpeed Controller

Function Description: One-touch sending the idle speed. Press the button to send the idle speed, and the button will flash (Active for ECU engine).

5.6 Start/Stop Operations

Start/Stop Operations Button Functions Table
Table 11 - Start/Stop Description

To control engine start and stop:

ControlDescription
Button 1Start
Button 2On Load
Button 3Off Load
Button 4Stop
Knob ButtonEnter Menu
KnobScreen Scroll

6. Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your SmartGen controller. While specific maintenance schedules may vary based on usage and environment, general guidelines include:

  • Keep the controller clean and free from dust and debris. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning.
  • Periodically inspect all wiring connections for tightness and signs of corrosion or damage.
  • Ensure the operating environment remains within specified temperature and humidity ranges.
  • Check for any visible damage to the casing or display.
  • If the controller is exposed to harsh conditions, consider more frequent inspections.

For any complex issues or internal maintenance, please contact SmartGen technical support.

7. Troubleshooting

This section provides solutions to common issues you might encounter with your SmartGen EP4300/EP4301 controller.

7.1 Fault Finding

Fault Finding Table for SmartGen EP4300/EP4301
Table 30 - Fault Finding (part of image)
Table 30 - Fault Finding
SymptomsPossible Solutions
Controller InoperativeCheck starting battery; Check connections of controller; Check the DC fuse.
Engine StopsCheck if water/cylinder temperature is too high; Check the DC fuse. Check switch and connections according to information on LCD; Check AUX. inputs.
Shutdown Alarm During RunningCheck starting battery; Check speed sensor and its connections.
Crank Disconnect FailedRefer to engine manual. Check connections.
RS485 FailureCheck if A and B of RS485 are connected reversely; Check if PC COM port is damaged.

7.2 Warning Alarms

The controller detects various warning conditions. Refer to the table below for types and descriptions:

Table 17 - Warning Alarms
No.TypeDescription
1Loss of Speed SignalWhen controller detects that the engine speed is 0, and the action type selects warning, it will send a warning.
2Stop FailureAfter the engine stop delay is over, if the unit is not stopped, the controller will send a warning.
3Charging FailureWhen the voltage difference between B+ and D+(WL) is greater than the charging failure voltage, it will send a warning.
4Battery OvervoltageWhen controller detects that the battery voltage of engine is over the preset limit, it will send a warning.
5Battery UndervoltageWhen controller detects that the battery voltage of engine is under the preset limit, it will send a warning.
6ECU WarningWhen controller receives a warning signal from engine via J1939, it will send a warning.
7Flex. Sensor 1 Open CircuitWhen controller detects the Flex. sensor 1 is open, and the action type selects warning, it will send a warning signal.
8Flex. Sensor 1 HighWhen controller detects that the Flex. sensor 1 is higher than the upper limit value, it will send a warning signal.
9Flex. Sensor 1 LowWhen controller detects that the Flex. sensor 1 is lower than the lower limit value, it will send a warning signal.
10Flex. Sensor 2 Open CircuitWhen controller detects the Flex. sensor 2 is open circuit, and the action type selects warning, it will send a warning signal.
11Flex. Sensor 2 HighWhen controller detects that the Flex. sensor 2 is higher than the upper limit value, it will send a warning signal.
12Flex. Sensor 2 LowWhen controller detects that the Flex. sensor 2 is lower than the lower limit value, it will send a warning signal.
13Flex. Sensor 3 Open CircuitWhen controller detects that the Flex. sensor 3 is open circuit, and the action type selects warning, it will send a warning signal.
14Flex. Sensor 3 HighWhen controller detects that the Flex. sensor 3 is higher than the upper limit value, it will send a warning signal.
15Flex. Sensor 3 LowWhen controller detects that the Flex. sensor 3 is lower than the lower limit value, it will send a warning signal.
16Input Port WarningWhen the AUX. input port is set as warning and it is active, the controller will send a corresponding warning signal.
17Low Fuel LevelWhen the AUX. input port is set as low fuel level warning and it is active, the controller will send a corresponding warning signal.

7.3 Shutdown Alarms

The controller also issues shutdown alarms for critical conditions:

Table 18 - Shutdown Alarms
No.TypeDescription
1Over SpeedWhen controller detects that the engine speed is above the pre-set limit, it will send an alarm signal.
2Under SpeedWhen controller detects that the engine speed is below the pre-set limit, it will send an alarm signal.
3Loss of Speed SignalWhen controller detects that the engine speed is 0 and the action type selects shutdown alarm, it will send an alarm signal.
4Start FailureWithin the set start time, if the engine fails to start, it will send an alarm signal.
5Flex. Sensor 1 Open CircuitWhen controller detects that the Flex. sensor 1 is open and the action type selects shutdown alarm, it will send an alarm signal.
6Flex. Sensor 1 HighWhen controller detects that the Flex. sensor 1 is higher than the upper limit value, it will send an alarm signal.
7Flex. Sensor 1 LowWhen controller detects that the Flex. sensor 1 is lower than the lower limit value, it will send an alarm signal.
8Flex. Sensor 2 Open CircuitWhen controller detects that the Flex. sensor 2 is open and the action type selects shutdown alarm, it will send an alarm signal.
9Flex. Sensor 2 HighWhen controller detects that the Flex. sensor 2 is higher than the upper limit value, it will send an alarm signal.
10Flex. Sensor 2 LowWhen controller detects that the Flex. sensor 2 is lower than the lower limit value, it will send an alarm signal.
11Flex. Sensor 3 Open CircuitWhen controller detects that the Flex. sensor 3 is open and the action type selects shutdown alarm, it will send an alarm signal.
12Flex. Sensor 3 HighWhen controller detects that the Flex. sensor 3 is higher than the upper limit value, it will send an alarm signal.
13Flex. Sensor 3 LowWhen controller detects that the Flex. sensor 3 is lower than the lower limit value, it will send an alarm signal.
14Input PortWhen AUX. input port is configured a shutdown alarm and it is active, the controller will send a corresponding alarm signal.
15ECUWhen controller receives the shutdown alarm signal of engine via J1939, it will send an alarm signal.

8. Specifications

FeatureDetail
Model NumbersEP4300, EP4301
Brand NameSmartGen (SAIWEI)
Display4.3 Inch Colour LCD
ConnectivityRS485, USB, CANBUS
OriginMainland China
High-concerned chemicalNone
Overall Width132 mm
Overall Height103 mm
Overall Depth (Front Panel)26.5 mm
Overall Depth (Rear Body)86.2 mm
Panel Cutout (Width)114 mm
Panel Cutout (Height)92 mm

9. User Tips

  • Always double-check wiring connections, especially power and sensor inputs, before applying power to prevent damage.
  • Familiarize yourself with the user-defined buttons to customize the controller's functions for your specific application.
  • When troubleshooting, systematically check each component mentioned in the 'Possible Solutions' column of the Fault Finding table.
  • For optimal performance and to avoid false alarms, ensure all sensors are correctly calibrated and within their operational ranges.

10. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please contact your authorized SmartGen dealer or the manufacturer directly. Keep your purchase receipt and product model number handy for faster service.

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