1. Introduction
The OWON OEL15/30 Series DC Electronic Load is a high-performance programmable instrument designed for various testing applications. It offers compact size, portability, and a 2.8-inch TFT color LCD display for clear operation. This series supports four primary operation modes: Constant Voltage (CV), Constant Current (CC), Constant Resistance (CR), and Constant Power (CP). Advanced features include dynamic current testing up to 5kHz, high-resolution readback (1mV/0.1mA), remote sensing compensation, and multiple protection mechanisms to ensure safe and reliable operation.
This manual provides detailed instructions for the setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your OWON OEL15/30 Series DC Electronic Load. Please read it thoroughly before using the device.
2. Available Models
The OEL15/30 Series includes several models, each with specific voltage, current, and power ratings:
Figure 1: OWON OEL15/30 Series Models
The series is broadly categorized into OEL1500 Series (DC 150V, 15A/20A/30A, max 300W) and OEL3000 Series (DC 300V, 15A/20A/30A, max 300W).
3. Packing List
Upon unpacking, please verify that all items are present and in good condition:
Figure 2: Standard Packing List
- Main Unit (OEL15/30 Series DC Electronic Load)
- Power Cord
- Fuse
- User Manual (this document, or a printed version)
4. Setup
4.1 Front and Rear Panel Overview
Familiarize yourself with the controls and connectors on the front and rear panels of the electronic load.
Figure 3: Functional Area Annotation
- 2.8-inch TFT LCD: Displays measurement values, settings, and operational status.
- Reuse function button: For quick access to frequently used functions.
- Control output button: To enable or disable the load output.
- USB-Type C port: Front USB communication port for data transfer and control.
- Output terminal: Connect the Device Under Test (DUT) here.
- Remote compensation port (Vsense+, Vsense-): Used for remote sensing to compensate for voltage drops in cables, improving measurement accuracy.
- Earth terminal (PE): For safety grounding.
- DB9 interface (RS232/RS485/Trig In/Out): Rear communication port compatible with host computer and SCPI protocol.
- Power switch: Main power control for the unit.
- Fuse: Overcurrent protection for the unit's internal circuitry.
- Fan: Internal intelligent fan for forced air cooling.
4.2 Power Connection
- Ensure the power switch on the rear panel is in the OFF position.
- Connect the provided power cord to the AC input on the rear panel and then to a suitable AC power outlet (AC 100-240V, 50/60Hz).
- For safety, ensure the unit is properly grounded via the Earth terminal.
4.3 Connecting the Device Under Test (DUT)
- Connect the positive terminal of your DUT to the red (+) output terminal of the electronic load.
- Connect the negative terminal of your DUT to the black (-) output terminal of the electronic load.
- For applications requiring high measurement accuracy, especially with long connection cables, utilize the remote sensing terminals (Vsense+ and Vsense-). Connect Vsense+ to the positive terminal of the DUT and Vsense- to the negative terminal of the DUT. This compensates for voltage drops across the load cables.
Figure 4: Remote Sensing Mode Connection
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Basic Operation
- Turn on the power switch on the rear panel. The LCD display will illuminate.
- Use the front panel buttons (MENU, MODE, PARAM, F1, F2, F3, SHIFT, ESC, ENTER, On/Off) and the rotary knob to navigate menus and adjust settings.
- The "On/Off" button controls the load output. Ensure it is off before connecting/disconnecting the DUT.
5.2 Operation Modes (CC, CV, CR, CP)
The OEL15/30 Series supports four static operation modes:
- Constant Current (CC) Mode: The electronic load draws a constant current regardless of the input voltage.
- Constant Voltage (CV) Mode: The electronic load maintains a constant voltage across its input terminals.
- Constant Resistance (CR) Mode: The electronic load behaves like a constant resistance, drawing current proportional to the input voltage.
- Constant Power (CP) Mode: The electronic load draws constant power, meaning current changes inversely with voltage.
Figure 5: Static Operation Modes
To select an operation mode, press the "MODE" button and use the rotary knob to choose between CC, CV, CR, or CP. Press "ENTER" to confirm.
5.3 Dynamic Mode (5kHz)
The 5kHz Dynamic Mode allows the load to switch between two preset parameter values (Level A and Level B) to test the dynamic characteristics of a device by simulating high-speed current variations.
Figure 6: 5kHz Dynamic Mode Interface
5.4 Adjustable Current Slew Rate
The transition time between load set values can be configured by adjusting the current slew rate, ranging from 0.001A/µs to 2A/µs. This allows for precise control over how quickly the current changes during dynamic tests.
Figure 7: Current Slew Rate Adjustment
5.5 Battery Capacity Testing (Optional)
This optional function, available with Order No. OEL-T1, is equipped with constant current discharge control and intelligent termination criteria (Vstop, Cstop, Tstop). It simulates battery behavior under diverse loads, enabling precise evaluation of capacity and State of Health. The PC software monitors real-time discharge curves (voltage/current/capacity) to generate high-precision data for R&D, production grading, lifespan/consistency analysis, and post-sales health assessment. It delivers precise discharge analysis and efficient data acquisition to optimize battery validation in new energy, energy storage, and electric vehicles.
Figure 8: Battery Capacity Testing Interface
5.6 SCPI Programming
The OWON OEL15/30 Series supports SCPI (Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments) protocol for remote control via RS232, RS485, and USB interfaces. This allows for automated testing and integration into larger test systems.
A comprehensive programming manual (PDF) is available for download, detailing all SCPI commands and their syntax. Key command categories include:
- IEEE488.2 Common Commands: Standard commands like
*IDN?(query identification) and*RST(reset). - System Commands: Control local/remote operation (
SYSTem:LOCal,SYSTem:REMote) and remote sensing status (SYSTem:SENSe[:STATe]). - Source Commands: Configure the load's function (
[SOURce:]FUNCtion), input status ([SOURce:]INPut), voltage parameters ([SOURce:]VOLTage), current parameters ([SOURce:]CURRent), resistance parameters ([SOURce:]RESistance), power parameters ([SOURce:]POWer), and dynamic mode settings ([SOURce:]DYNamic). - Measurement Commands: Query measured values such as voltage (
MEASure[:SCALar]:VOLTage[:DC]?), current (MEASure[:SCALar]:CURRent[:DC]?), and power (MEASure[:SCALar]:POWer[:DC]?), as well as fault status (MEASure[:SCALar]:ALL[:DC]:INFO?). - Parallel Commands: For controlling units in parallel mode (
:PARallel[:STATe]?,:PARallel:Identity?,:PARallel:NUMber?).
For detailed syntax, parameters, and examples of each SCPI command, please refer to the dedicated Programming Manual (PDF) available at www.owon.com.hk/download.
6. Protection Features
The OEL15/30 Series is equipped with multiple protection mechanisms to safeguard both the instrument and the Device Under Test (DUT):
- Over-Voltage Protection (OVP): Prevents damage from excessive input voltage.
- Over-Current Protection (OCP): Protects against excessive input current.
- Over-Power Protection (OPP): Safeguards against exceeding the maximum power rating.
- Over-Temperature Protection (OTP): Shuts down the unit if internal temperature becomes too high.
- Reverse Polarity Protection (RPP): Protects against incorrect connection of positive and negative terminals.
Figure 9: Comprehensive Protection Overview
Optional test functions for OCP and OPP are available (Order No. OEL-T1) to simulate and verify the response effectiveness and stability of these protection mechanisms.
Figure 10: OCP/OPP Test Function Interfaces
7. Specifications
The following tables detail the specifications for the OWON OEL15/30 Series DC Electronic Load models. The instrument must be operated continuously for more than 30 minutes at the specified temperature to ensure the following parameters.
Figure 11: OEL15/30 Series Key Features and Basic Specifications
Figure 12: Detailed Specifications Table
Specifications are subject to change without prior notice.
8. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Regularly clean the exterior of the instrument with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Ventilation: Ensure that the ventilation openings on the sides and rear of the instrument are not obstructed to allow for proper airflow and cooling.
- Fuse Replacement: If the instrument does not power on, check the fuse on the rear panel. Replace it with a fuse of the same type and rating if necessary. Refer to the specifications for the correct fuse type.
- Storage: When not in use for extended periods, store the instrument in a dry, dust-free environment within the specified operating temperature and humidity ranges.
9. Troubleshooting
This section provides solutions to common issues you might encounter. For more complex problems, contact technical support.
- Instrument does not power on:
- Check if the power cord is securely connected.
- Verify the power outlet is functional.
- Inspect and replace the fuse on the rear panel if blown.
- No load current/voltage:
- Ensure the "On/Off" button on the front panel is activated (load output enabled).
- Check connections to the DUT.
- Verify the DUT is functioning correctly and providing power.
- Check for active protection (OVP, OCP, OPP) indicated on the display. Adjust settings or DUT conditions if a protection mode is triggered.
- Inaccurate readings:
- Ensure remote sensing is correctly connected and enabled if long cables are used.
- Verify proper calibration (if applicable, refer to service manual or contact support).
- Check for stable operating environment conditions (temperature, humidity).
- Remote control issues (SCPI):
- Verify correct physical connection (USB, RS232, RS485).
- Ensure the instrument is in remote mode (
SYSTem:REMotecommand). - Check communication settings (baud rate, parity, data bits, stop bits) on both the instrument and the host computer.
- Refer to the SCPI Programming Manual for command syntax and usage.
10. User Tips
- Start with Low Settings: When testing a new device, always begin with lower voltage, current, or power settings and gradually increase them to avoid accidental damage.
- Utilize Remote Sensing: For precise measurements, especially with higher currents or longer cables, always connect and enable remote sensing to compensate for lead resistance.
- Monitor Protection Status: Pay attention to OVP, OCP, and OPP indicators on the display. If a protection is triggered, investigate the cause before resuming operation.
- Dynamic Mode for Real-World Simulation: Leverage the 5kHz dynamic mode to simulate real-world load changes for power supplies, batteries, and other components, providing a more thorough test.
- Automate with SCPI: For repetitive tasks or complex test sequences, use the SCPI commands via USB or RS232/RS485 to automate your testing process, saving time and improving consistency.
11. Warranty and Support
OWON products are manufactured under strict quality control standards. For product support, including technical assistance and warranty information, please visit the official OWON website or contact the manufacturer directly.
- Official Website: www.owon.com.cn
- Product Support & Downloads: www.owon.com.hk/download
- Email: info@owon.com.cn
- Telephone: +86-596-2130430
- Fax: +86-596-2109272
- Manufacturer: Fujian LILLIPUT Optoelectronics Technology Co., Ltd., No. 19, Heming Road, Lantian Industrial Zone, Zhangzhou 363005 P.R. China
The information in this manual was correct at the time of printing (Jul. 2025 edition V1.0.0). However, LILLIPUT continues to improve products and reserves the right to change specifications at any time without notice.
12. Product Overview Video
Video 1: OWON OEL1500/3000 Series DC Electronic Load Overview
This video provides a visual introduction to the OWON OEL15/30 Series DC Electronic Load, highlighting its key features and functionalities, including remote sensing, communication ports, dynamic mode, adjustable slew rate, battery discharge testing, and protection features.
