ALIENTEK EL15 Compact 150W Programmable Electronic Load User Manual

1. Introduction

The ALIENTEK EL15 is a compact, high-precision, and high-power density programmable electronic load designed for various testing applications, including battery capacity testing and power analysis. Featuring a 1.9-inch IPS LCD for clear display and intuitive operation, it offers multiple measurement modes and robust protection features to ensure safe and reliable use. Its full aluminum CNC craftsmanship provides a first-class texture and efficient heat dissipation.

Figure 1: ALIENTEK EL15 Mini DC Electronic Load overview, highlighting key features.

2. Safety Information

Always observe the following safety precautions to prevent injury or damage to the device:

• Ensure proper ventilation during operation. The device is equipped with dual fans, but adequate airflow is crucial.
• Do not exceed the maximum input voltage (60V) or power (150W).
• Verify correct polarity before connecting any power source.
• Avoid contact with live terminals during operation.
• Do not disassemble the device unless instructed by qualified personnel.
• Operate the device within its specified environmental conditions.

2.1 Built-in Protection Features

The EL15 incorporates six-fold protection for comprehensive measurement safety:

• Overcurrent Protection (OCP): Prevents damage from excessive current.
• Overvoltage Protection (OVP): Safeguards against input voltage spikes.
• Overpower Protection (OPP): Protects the device from exceeding its maximum power rating.
• Undervoltage Protection (UVP): Shuts down if input voltage drops below a safe level.
• Over-temperature Protection (OTP): Prevents overheating of internal components.
• Reverse Polarity Protection (RPP): Protects against damage from incorrect power connections.

Figure 2: Six-Fold Protection for the EL15 Electronic Load.

3. Setup

3.1 Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in your package:

1. EL15 Electronic Load (x1)
2. USB Cable - Type-C (x1)
3. XT30U-F Female Connector (x1)
4. Alligator Clip Power Cable - Red (x1)
5. Alligator Clip Power Cable - Black (x1)

Figure 3: Contents of the EL15 Electronic Load package.

3.2 Product Overview and Interface

Familiarize yourself with the EL15's physical components:

Figure 4: Front and rear views of the EL15 Electronic Load with labeled components.

• 1: 4mm Load Input Port Positive + (Red)
• 2: Remote Compensation Input Port (XT30 Male Connector)
• 3: 4mm Load Input Port Negative - (Blue)
• 4: 1.9-inch IPS LCD Screen
• 5: USB TYPE-C Power Input Port
• 6: Multi-function Keyboard
• 7: Radiator Air Outlet
• 8: Radiator Air Inlet

Figure 5: Close-up of the EL15's input/output ports, including 4mm Gold-Plated Banana Jacks and XT30 Remote Compensation Inlet.

3.3 Connection Methods

The EL15 supports both local and remote measurement configurations:

• Local Measurement: Suitable for quick measurement scenarios. Only two load wires (positive and negative) need to be connected between the electronic load and the source under test.
• Remote Measurement: Suitable for high-precision measurement scenarios. Four wires need to be connected: two load wires (positive and negative) for current transmission, and two remote compensation wires (connected to the XT30 male connector) for detecting the actual output voltage of the source under test.

Figure 6: Wiring diagrams for local and remote measurement. Note: When switching between remote and local measurement, select the corresponding option in the system settings.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1 Powering On and Display Interface

Connect the EL15 to a 5V 2A USB Type-C power source. The device will power on and display the main interface on its 1.9-inch IPS LCD screen. The screen offers a delicate display with rich content, clear at a glance.

Figure 7: Various interfaces on the EL15's 1.9-inch IPS LCD, including Main, Setting, Measurement, and Automatic Measurement Report.

4.2 Basic Measurement Modes

The EL15 supports four basic measurement modes to meet various testing requirements:

• Constant Current Mode (CC): The load will draw current at the set value, regardless of input voltage changes.
• Constant Voltage Mode (CV): The load maintains the input voltage at a constant value by drawing current.
• Constant Resistance Mode (CR): The load acts as a constant resistor, dynamically adjusting the load current according to the input voltage.
• Constant Power Mode (CP): Dynamically adjusts the load current according to the input voltage to make the load consume constant power.

Figure 8: Graphical representation of the EL15's basic measurement modes.

4.3 Advanced Measurement Modes

For more complex testing scenarios, the EL15 offers advanced modes:

• List Test (LIST): Stores up to 10 sets of current and duration parameters to perform complex testing under multiple conditions. Useful for dynamic performance testing, automated verification, and quality control.
• Scan Test (SCAN): By setting low current, high current, and rise/fall time, dynamic response performance testing of the device under test can be realized.

Figure 9: Display interfaces for List Test and Scan Test modes.

4.4 Battery Measurement Mode

Specifically designed for battery analysis:

• Capacity Test (CAP): Records discharge time and constant-current discharge to evaluate battery/energy storage device capacity. Applicable for battery capacity evaluation, energy storage device testing, battery aging analysis, and product quality inspection.
• DC Internal Resistance Measurement (DCR): Derives internal resistance from the voltage change between two passed load currents. Key for evaluating power supply characteristics, output performance, and state of health.

Figure 10: Display interfaces for Capacity Test (CAP) and DC Internal Resistance Measurement (DCR).

4.5 Power Supply Measurement Mode

Evaluate power supply performance with these modes:

• Dynamic Test (DT): Simulates real-world load changes with alternating current levels to evaluate power supply response speed, efficiency, reliability, and safety.
• Automatic Test (AUTO): Streamlines testing with one-click automation. After configuring initial rated termination and step currents, the system provides a comprehensive suite of metrics from rated power and voltage to maximum current, power, and load regulation.

Figure 11: Display interfaces for Dynamic Test (DT) and Automatic Test (AUTO).

4.6 Bluetooth Function

The EL15 supports Bluetooth connectivity for remote control and data monitoring via the mobile app "ATK-xTOOL", available for both Android and iOS devices.

1. Open the mobile app "ATK-xTOOL".
2. Scan for Bluetooth devices and add the EL15.
3. Find and connect to the device (e.g., "EL15").
4. Once connection is successful, click to enter the EL15 Operation Interface.

Figure 12: Step-by-step guide for connecting the EL15 via Bluetooth to the ATK-xTOOL app.

5. Specifications

The following table details the technical specifications of the ALIENTEK EL15 Electronic Load:

Figure 13: EL15 dimensions.

Figure 14: Detailed specifications of the 24-bit high-performance ADC and its reading accuracy.

6. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your EL15, refer to the following common problems and solutions:

• Device not powering on: Ensure the Type-C USB cable is securely connected to a 5V 2A power source. Check the power source for functionality.
• No load detected: Verify that the load input cables are correctly connected to the positive and negative terminals of the EL15 and the power source. Check for loose connections or damaged cables.
• Inaccurate readings: Ensure remote compensation wires are correctly connected for high-precision measurements if using remote mode. Calibrate the device if necessary (refer to advanced settings in the manual or app).
• Over-temperature warning: Check that the radiator air inlets and outlets are not obstructed. Ensure the device is operating in a well-ventilated area. The dual fans should be running.
• Bluetooth connection issues: Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your mobile device and the EL15. Restart both the device and the "ATK-xTOOL" app. Ensure the app has necessary permissions.

7. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the device. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Storage: Store the EL15 in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures when not in use.
• Firmware Updates: Check the official ALIENTEK website or the "ATK-xTOOL" app for any available firmware updates to ensure optimal performance and new features.
• Fan Maintenance: Periodically check the dual fans for dust accumulation. Use compressed air to gently clean the fan blades and vents to maintain efficient heat dissipation.

8. User Tips

• For critical measurements, especially with long cables or high currents, always utilize the remote compensation input to ensure the most accurate voltage readings at the load.
• Take advantage of the "ATK-xTOOL" mobile app for convenient remote control and data logging, which can simplify complex testing setups.
• When performing long-duration tests, ensure the EL15 is placed in an open area to maximize the effectiveness of its 13000RPM dual fans and prevent thermal throttling.
• Experiment with the different measurement modes (CC, CV, CR, CP) to understand their applications and optimize your testing procedures for various power sources and batteries.

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please contact your authorized ALIENTEK dealer or visit the official ALIENTEK website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.