OWON OEL15/30/60 Series Programmable DC Electronic Load User Manual

1. Introduction

The OWON OEL15/30/60 Series are single-channel programmable electronic loads designed for various applications including fast chargers, battery discharge testing, and power supply validation. This series offers an optimal solution for both R&D and production line testing environments.

Key features include:

• Compact, portable, and movable high-performance design.
• 2.8-inch TFT color LCD display.
• Four operation modes: Constant Voltage (CV), Constant Current (CC), Constant Resistance (CR), Constant Power (CP).
• Supports dynamic current testing up to 5kHz.
• High resolution readback: 1mV/0.1mA.
• Supports remote sensing compensation.
• Multiple protections including Over Voltage Protection (OVP), Over Current Protection (OCP), Over Power Protection (OPP), and Over Temperature Protection (OTP).
• Standard interfaces: RS232 and RS485 with SCPI protocol support.
• Optional test functions: Battery Discharge Test, OCP Test, OPP Test (Order No. OEL-T1).

The following models are available:

2. General Safety Requirements

Before using this product, please read the following safety precautions carefully to prevent bodily injury and damage to the product or any connected equipment. Ensure the product is used only within its specified range.

2.1 To Avoid Fire or Personal Injury:

• Use Proper Power Cord: Use only the power cord supplied with the product and certified for use in your country.
• Connect the Probe Correctly: The grounding end of the probe corresponds to the grounding phase. Do not connect the grounding end to the positive phase.
• Check all Terminal Ratings: To avoid fire or shock hazard, check all ratings and markers. Refer to the user's manual for more information before connecting.
• Do Not Operate Without Covers: Do not operate the instrument with covers or panels removed.
• Use Proper Fuse: Use only the specified type and rating fuse for this instrument.
• Avoid Exposed Circuit: Do not touch exposed junctions and components when the instrument is powered.
• Do Not Operate if in Any Doubt: If you suspect damage, have it inspected by qualified service personnel before further operations.
• Use in a Well-Ventilated Area: Ensure proper ventilation.
• Do Not Operate in Wet Conditions: Avoid humid environments to prevent internal circuit short circuits or electric shock.
• Do Not Operate in an Explosive Atmosphere: Do not operate in flammable or explosive environments.
• Keep Product Surfaces Clean and Dry: Prevent dust or moisture from affecting performance.

2.2 Safety Terms and Symbols

The following terms and symbols may appear in this manual and on the product:

Terms in this manual:

• ! Warning: Indicates conditions or practices that could result in injury or loss of life.
• Caution: Indicates conditions or practices that could result in damage to this product or other property.

Terms on the product:

• Danger: Indicates an injury or hazard may immediately happen.
• Warning: Indicates an injury or hazard may be accessible potentially.
• Caution: Indicates a potential damage to the instrument or other property might occur.

Safety Symbols on the product:

3. Unboxing and Package Contents

Upon receiving your OWON DC Electronic Load, carefully inspect the packaging for any signs of damage. If the packaging or foam protection is damaged, retain it until the unit has been fully tested.

The package should contain the following items:

• Main Unit (Electronic Load)
• Power Cord
• Fuse
• User Manual

Optional accessories (may vary by order):

• Remote Compensation Cable (Order No. 7CL3-10)
• USB Cable (Type A to Type C) (Order No. 7ULC08)
• RS232 Cable (Order No. 7R232MFS)

4. Product Overview

This section details the physical components and user interface of the DC Electronic Load.

4.1 Front Panel

4.2 Rear Panel

4.3 User Interface Status Icons

The user interface displays various status icons:

• Lock Icon: Indicates the panel keys are locked.
• Speaker Icon: Indicates the beeper is enabled.
• ! Icon: Indicates a failure alarm.

5. Setup and Initial Inspection

5.1 General Inspection

Before initial use, perform the following checks:

1. Check for Transportation Damage: Inspect the packaging and the unit itself for any damage. If damage is found, contact your distributor.
2. Check Accessories: Verify all supplied accessories are present and undamaged. Refer to the Appendix A for a list of accessories.
3. Check the Complete Instrument: If the instrument appears damaged or does not function correctly, contact your distributor.

5.2 Power-on Inspection

1. Connect the instrument to an AC power source using the provided power cord. Ensure the instrument is properly grounded to prevent electric shock.
2. Press the power button on the front panel. The startup screen should be displayed.

5.3 Turning On/Off the Channel Output

Press the On/Off key to toggle the channel output. When the key is bright, the output is ON; when the light is off, the output is OFF. The panel defaults to the main interface displaying the current state upon power-on.5.4 Local/Remote Mode Operation

The instrument supports both local and remote operation. By default, it operates in local mode.

• Local Operation Mode: Use the front panel keys to control the device.
• Remote Operation Mode: Connect the electronic load to a PC. The PC can then control the electronic load. In remote mode, all panel keys are inactive except for the SHIFT + On/Off key, which can be used to switch back to local mode by long-pressing.

6. Operating Modes and Functions

The OWON DC Electronic Load offers four constant operation modes and several advanced functions.

6.1 Constant Current Mode (CC)

In CC mode, the electronic load draws a constant current regardless of input voltage changes.

Setting Output Current (CC mode):

Mode One:

1. Press MODE and rotate the knob to select CC mode.
2. Press ENTER to edit the current setting. Rotate the knob to adjust the value. Pressing the knob increments the value to the right.
3. Press On/Off to output the set current.

Mode Two:

1. Press CC directly. The user interface will switch to CC mode.
2. Press ENTER to edit the current setting. Rotate the knob to adjust the value.
3. Press On/Off to output the set current.

In CC mode, you can also set parameters like maximum working current, voltage/current range, and rising/falling slopes via the F1 parameter setting interface.

In CV mode, the electronic load draws sufficient current to maintain the input voltage at the set value.

Setting Output Voltage (CV mode):

Mode One:

1. Press MODE and rotate the knob to select CV mode.
2. Press ENTER to edit the voltage setting. Rotate the knob to adjust the value.
3. Press On/Off to output the set voltage.

Mode Two:

1. Press CV directly. The user interface will switch to CV mode.
2. Press ENTER to edit the voltage setting. Rotate the knob to adjust the value.
3. Press On/Off to output the set voltage.

In CV mode, you can also set parameters like maximum working current, voltage range, and rising/falling slopes via the F1 parameter setting interface.

6.3 Constant Resistance Mode (CR)

In CR mode, the electronic load behaves as a constant resistor, meaning the current changes linearly with the input voltage.

Setting Output Resistance (CR mode):

Mode One:

1. Press MODE and rotate the knob to select CR mode.
2. Press ENTER to edit the resistance setting. Rotate the knob to adjust the value.
3. Press On/Off to output the set resistance.

Mode Two:

1. Press SHIFT+CV simultaneously. The user interface will switch to CR mode.
2. Press ENTER to edit the resistance setting. Rotate the knob to adjust the value.
3. Press On/Off to output the set resistance.

In CR mode, you can also set parameters like maximum working current, voltage range, and rising/falling slopes via the F1 parameter setting interface.

6.4 Constant Power Mode (CP)

In CP mode, the electronic load consumes a constant power. If the input voltage increases, the input current will decrease to maintain constant power.

Setting Output Power (CP mode):

Mode One:

1. Press MODE and rotate the knob to select CP mode.
2. Press ENTER to edit the power setting. Rotate the knob to adjust the value.
3. Press On/Off to output the set power.

Mode Two:

1. Press SHIFT+CC simultaneously. The user interface will switch to CP mode.
2. Press ENTER to edit the power setting. Rotate the knob to adjust the value.
3. Press On/Off to output the set power.

In CP mode, you can also set parameters like maximum working current, voltage range, and rising/falling slopes via the F1 parameter setting interface.

6.5 Input Control Function

After the electronic load is turned on, it is in an unconnected (no load) state. The input switch can be controlled by pressing the On/Off button. When the indicator light is on, the input is active, and the TFT screen displays real-time voltage and current. When the indicator light is off, the input is off.

6.6 Keyboard Lock Function

To lock the front panel buttons, press SHIFT+On/Off. The screen will display "LOCK". All buttons are disabled except for unlocking by pressing and holding SHIFT+On/Off again.

6.7 USB Screenshot Function

Insert a USB flash drive into the front panel. The load will recognize it and display a USB icon. To take a screenshot, long-press the Knob button (around 2 seconds). The image will be saved to the USB drive. A "Screenshot save done" message will appear. Screenshots are large files and can only be saved to a USB drive.

6.8 Short Circuit Simulation Function

The electronic load can simulate a short circuit to test the protection function of a Device Under Test (DUT).

To switch to short circuit state, press SHIFT + SHORT. This does not affect current settings. Pressing SHIFT + SHORT or MODE again returns to the original state. In CC, CP, and CR modes, the short-circuit current will be equal to the current input value if within range; otherwise, it will be 110% of the current range. In CP mode, a short circuit is equivalent to setting the load's constant voltage to 0V.

6.9 System Menu Function

Press F1 to enter the system setting function. From there, you can access various settings:

• Language: Chinese/English
• Comm Pro: SCPI or Modbus communication setting
• Button Voice: Enable or disable button sound
• Alarm Voice: Enable or disable alarm sound
• Brightness: Screen brightness adjustment from 10% to 100% (10% increments)
• Baud: Baud rate setting from 115200 to 1200 (8 rates available)
• Reset: Restore factory defaults
• Address: Parallel machine address selection (1 to 10)

To exit the function menu, press ESC or F1. Pressing CC, CV, or On/Off will quickly return to the main page.

6.10 Parameter Setting

Access Parameter Settings via System Settings. This menu allows configuration of protection thresholds and other operational parameters:

6.11 Dynamic Mode Function

In dynamic mode, you can set two preset load current parameters. The load current will switch back and forth between these two values, allowing for dynamic testing of device characteristics under high-speed current variations.

Dynamic Mode Setting Parameters:

Continuous Mode: The load continuously switches between T1 and T2 values.

Single Pulse Mode (Pulse): The load switches once between T1 and T2 values upon receiving a SHIFT+ trigger command. This is useful for simulating pulsed loads.

6.12 VON Function

The VON function allows setting a voltage threshold. When the power supply voltage is higher than this value, the electronic load will start to pull the load. This prevents issues with power products that have slow voltage rise speeds. If the supply voltage drops below the VON Point unloading voltage, the load will not unload.

Note: Ensure the load voltage is set appropriately. If not needed, set VON to 0 to avoid loading issues.

6.13 Compensation Function

When operating with high currents, voltage drops can occur across connection cables. Remote compensation terminals are provided to sample the precise output voltage of the DUT, ensuring measurement accuracy.

Operating Steps:

1. In the system parameter settings, select the remote compensation (RComp) option as "Rear" and confirm. The remote sampling voltage will be used as the actual detected voltage.
2. To disable, return to parameter settings and select "Front" for RComp. The load will then measure voltage at the main front-panel binding posts.

Note: After enabling rear remote compensation, ensure correct polarity connections. Do not leave connections floating or reverse polarity. Do not switch sense mode while the system is running.

6.14 Test Functions (Optional, T suffix version only)

These functions are available on models with the 'T' suffix.

6.14.1 Battery Discharge Test

The Battery mode simulates battery discharge. You can set termination conditions: cut-off voltage (Vstop), battery capacity (Cstop), and discharge time (Tstop). The discharge stops when any condition is met, and the load switches OFF.

During the test, the main interface displays real-time current, battery discharge voltage, time, and capacity. If termination conditions are met, a "Battery discharge test completed!" prompt appears. To pause or terminate, select the corresponding option via the On/Off key.

Battery Connection Precautions: Use the recommended wiring method with a non-fuse breaker (NFB) and current-limiting resistor (R) to prevent voltage overshoot and protect equipment during battery discharge testing.

6.14.2 OCP Test Function

This function tests overcurrent protection. The load increases current by steps, checking if OCP triggers within the target range. If within range, it's a PASS; otherwise, it's a FAULT.

OCP Test Steps:

1. Select OCP mode, enter the setting interface, and edit parameters.
2. Press On/Off to start. The panel displays PASS or FAULT.
3. After the test, return to settings and reset.

6.14.3 OPP Test Function

This function tests overpower protection. Similar to OCP, the load increases power by steps, checking if OPP triggers within the target range. If within range, it's a PASS; otherwise, it's a FAULT.

OPP Test Steps:

1. Select OPP mode, enter the setting interface, and edit parameters.
2. Press On/Off to start. The panel displays PASS or FAULT.
3. After the test, return to settings and reset.

7. PC Software Introduction

The OWON DC Electronic Load can be controlled remotely using PC software.

1. Download the PC software for OEL15 series Electronic Load from the official OWON website (www.owon.com.hk/download) or contact your dealer.
2. Connect the USB CDC port on the back panel to your computer. Ensure the CH340 USB driver is installed (available on the OWON website).
3. After successful connection, enter the mode setting in the software to remotely operate the instrument.

8. Troubleshooting

8.1 Instrument Powered On But No Display

If the instrument powers on but the screen remains blank, follow these steps:

1. Check if the power is connected properly.
2. Check if the fuse (located below the AC Power socket) is appropriate and in good condition. The fuse cover can be opened with a straight screwdriver.
3. Restart the instrument after performing the above checks.

If the problem persists, please contact customer service.

8.2 Protection Functions and Fault Information

The product monitors internal operations and triggers self-protection modes if faults occur. When a protection is triggered (e.g., Over-Temperature Protection), the load will alarm and switch to OFF, displaying the fault (e.g., OTP).

Protection modes can be cleared by pressing the power button or the ENTER button.

• Over Voltage Protection (OVP): If input voltage exceeds the safety threshold, the load turns OFF after 100µs, sounds a buzzer, and displays OVP.
• Over Current Protection (OCP):
  • Hardware OCP: Limits load current to the hardware maximum.
  • Software OCP: If load current exceeds the set threshold for 100ms, the load turns OFF and displays OCP.
• Over Power Protection (OPP):
  • Hardware OPP: Limits load power to the hardware maximum.
  • Software OPP: If load power exceeds the set threshold for 100ms, the load turns OFF and displays OPP.
• Over Temperature Protection (OTP): If internal temperature exceeds 85°C, the load turns OFF and displays OTP.
• Local Reverse Voltage Protection (LRV): Triggers if reverse voltage is detected at the front panel input. Confirm correct connections. Can be released by pressing the power or ENTER button.

For a detailed list of fault codes and their causes, refer to the official user manual PDF.

9. Technical Specifications

The instrument must be operated continuously for more than 30 minutes at the specified operating temperature to achieve the following specifications:

*Accuracy: The voltage and current input values should not be less than 10%FS.

If there are any changes to parameters, no separate notice will be given. Please refer to the website update for the latest information.

Interval Period of Adjustment: One year is recommended for the calibration interval period.

10. Maintenance and Care

10.1 General Care

• Do not store or leave the instrument where the liquid crystal display could be exposed to direct sunlight for long periods.
• Caution: To avoid any damage, do not expose the instrument to sprays, liquids, or solvents.

10.2 Cleaning

Inspect the instrument as often as operating conditions require. To clean the instrument exterior, perform the following steps:

1. Wipe dust from the instrument surface with a soft cloth. Be careful not to scratch the transparent LCD protection screen.
2. Disconnect power before cleaning. Clean with a damp soft cloth (not dripping with water) and a mild detergent or fresh water. Do not use corrosive chemical cleaning agents.

! Warning: Before re-applying power, ensure the instrument is completely dry to avoid electric shock or electrical short circuits from moisture.

11. Warranty and Support

11.1 General Warranty

We warrant that the product will be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of 2 years from the date of purchase by the original purchaser. The warranty period for accessories is 12 months. This warranty applies only to the original purchaser and is not transferable.

If the product proves defective during the warranty period, we will either repair or replace the defective product without charge for parts and labor. Replaced parts, modules, and products become the property of our company.

To obtain service, notify our company of the defect before the warranty period expires. You will be responsible for packaging and shipping the defective product to our designated service center, along with a copy of your proof of purchase.

This warranty does not cover defects, failures, or damage caused by improper use, inadequate maintenance, or care. It does not cover damage from unauthorized repairs, improper connections, use of non-approved supplies, or modifications that increase servicing difficulty.

Excepting the after-sales services provided in this summary or the applicable warranty statements, we will not offer any guarantee for maintenance definitely declared or hinted, including but not limited to the implied guarantee for marketability and special-purpose acceptability. We should not take any responsibilities for any indirect, special or consequent damages.

11.2 Product Support

For product support, visit: www.owon.com.hk/download

You can also contact Fujian LILLIPUT Optoelectronics Technology Co., Ltd. at:

• Address: No. 19, Heming Road, Lantian Industrial Zone, Zhangzhou 363005 P.R. China
• Tel: +86-596-2130430
• Fax: +86-596-2109272
• E-mail: info@owon.com.cn

12. User Tips

No specific user tips were available from reviews or Q&A for this product at this time. Always refer to the detailed instructions in this manual for optimal performance and safety.