daier DC 12V PWM PC CPU Fan Temperature Control Speed Controller (Model ZFC39) User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of the daier DC 12V PWM PC CPU Fan Temperature Control Speed Controller, Model ZFC39. This module is designed to manage fan speeds based on temperature, ensuring efficient cooling and system stability.

The controller supports 12V fans up to 5A per output, with a bus current up to 9A. It features synchronous rectifier output for high efficiency and supports both automatic temperature control and manual speed adjustment. The temperature control includes four configurable temperature zones, making it adaptable for various applications. A three-wire fan monitoring function provides stall warnings.

2. Safety Information

• Ensure the power supply is disconnected before installation or maintenance to prevent electrical shock.
• Operate the device within the specified voltage (DC 12V) and current limits (max 5A per output, 9A bus current). Exceeding these limits may damage the device or connected components.
• Avoid exposing the module to moisture, extreme temperatures, or corrosive environments.
• Handle the circuit board with care to prevent damage to electronic components.
• Do not attempt to modify the circuit board, as this may void any potential warranty and create safety hazards.

3. Product Overview

The daier ZFC39 fan controller module integrates several key components for precise fan speed management. Understanding these components is crucial for proper setup and operation.

Figure 1: ZFC39 Controller Board with Labeled Components
This image displays the main components of the ZFC39 fan controller, including the 12V DC power input, fan connectors (FAN1, FAN2, FAN3), temperature resistance (NTC-50K3950), function switches (DIP switches), and the buzzer (BEEP) connector.

Figure 2: ZFC39 Controller Board and Accessories
This image shows the ZFC39 controller board alongside its essential accessories: the temperature probe (NTC-50K3950) and the buzzer, which provides audible alerts for fan stall warnings.

Key Components:

• 12V DC Power Input: Terminal for connecting the main 12V DC power supply.
• Fan Connectors (FAN1, FAN2, FAN3): Outputs for connecting up to three 12V fans. FAN1 supports temperature-controlled speed, while FAN2 and FAN3 can be manually adjusted via potentiometers or synchronized with FAN1.
• Temperature Resistance (NTC-50K3950): Connector for the external temperature probe, enabling temperature-based fan speed control.
• Function Switches (DIP Switches): A set of five switches (TFL, TP1, TP2, BF1, BF2) used to configure the controller's operating parameters.
• Buzzer (BEEP): Connector for the included buzzer, which provides audible alerts for fan stall warnings.
• Potentiometers: Two adjustable potentiometers (visible near FAN2 and FAN3) for setting fixed speeds for FAN2 and FAN3 when not synchronized.

4. Setup and Installation

1. Power Connection: Connect a DC 12V power supply to the "12V DC power input" terminals. Ensure correct polarity (+ and -). The circuit load capacity is a maximum of 5A per output, with a total bus current up to 9A.
2. Fan Connection:
   • Connect your 12V fans to the FAN1, FAN2, and FAN3 connectors.
   • Multiple fans can be used in parallel on a single output, provided the total current does not exceed 5A for that output.
   • For temperature-controlled operation, connect the primary fan to FAN1.
3. Temperature Probe Connection: Connect the NTC-50K3950 temperature probe to the "Temperature Resistance" header. Position the probe near the heat source you wish to monitor (e.g., CPU heatsink, hard drives).
4. Buzzer Connection: Connect the buzzer to the "BEEP" header if you wish to enable audible fan stall alarms.
5. Initial Configuration: Before applying power, set the DIP switches according to your desired operating mode (refer to Section 5: Operating Instructions). Remember that DIP switch settings only take effect after the device is powered off and on again.

5. Operating Instructions

The ZFC39 controller offers both automatic temperature control and manual speed adjustment, configured via its DIP switches and potentiometers.

DIP Switch Settings:

The module features five DIP switches (labeled 1 to 5, corresponding to TFL, TP1, TP2, BF1, BF2). "ON" typically means the switch is in the down position, and "OFF" is up, but always refer to the markings on the board (as shown in Figure 1).

• TFL (Switch 1): FAN1 Minimum PWM Setting
  • ON: FAN1 minimum PWM is 40%.
  • OFF: FAN1 minimum PWM is 20%.
• TP1 & TP2 (Switches 2 & 3): Temperature Control Zones

  These switches define the accelerating and full-speed temperatures for FAN1, which operates based on the connected temperature probe. The actual control effect may vary depending on the fan.

  TP1 (Switch 2)	TP2 (Switch 3)	Accelerating Temperature	Full Speed Temperature
  OFF	OFF	35°C	45°C
  ON	OFF	40°C	55°C
  OFF	ON	50°C	70°C
  ON	ON	60°C	90°C

  When the temperature is below the accelerating temperature, FAN1 operates at its minimum rotation speed (as set by TFL). When the temperature exceeds the full-speed temperature, FAN1 operates at 100% full speed.

• BF1 & BF2 (Switches 4 & 5): Fan Stall Alarm Function

  These switches enable or disable the stall alarm for FAN1 and FAN2 respectively. This function requires a 3-wire fan with RPM feedback.

  • When a corresponding fan (FAN1 or FAN2) stops or malfunctions, the controller will activate an alarm with sound (if buzzer is connected) and light.
  • The alarm automatically deactivates once the fan resumes normal operation.
  • If both BF1 and BF2 are ON, the alarm will trigger if either FAN1 or FAN2 (or both) stop.
  • The minimum speed for stall alarm detection is 700-800 RPM.

Manual Speed Control (FAN2 & FAN3):

For FAN2 and FAN3, speed can be manually adjusted using the onboard potentiometers. If the "SY" pads (not explicitly labeled in the provided image but mentioned in reviews as a common modification) are soldered together, all three fan outputs will be controlled identically by the single temperature reading for FAN1, and the potentiometers for FAN2 and FAN3 will be ignored.

6. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Periodically inspect the module for dust accumulation. Use a soft, dry brush or compressed air to gently clean the circuit board. Do not use liquid cleaners.
• Connections: Ensure all wire connections remain secure. Loose connections can lead to intermittent operation or damage.
• Temperature Probe: Verify the temperature probe is securely attached and positioned correctly for accurate readings.
• Environmental Conditions: Maintain the operating environment within recommended temperature and humidity ranges to prolong the life of the device.

7. Troubleshooting

• No Fan Movement:
  • Check if the 12V DC power supply is correctly connected and providing power.
  • Ensure fans are properly connected to the FAN headers.
  • Verify DIP switch settings, especially TFL, as a very low minimum PWM (e.g., 20%) might not be enough to start some fans.
  • Test fans directly with a 12V source to confirm they are functional.
• Fan Stall Alarm (Buzzer Sounding):
  • Check the fan connected to FAN1 or FAN2 (if BF1/BF2 are ON) for obstructions or malfunction.
  • Ensure the fan is a 3-wire fan providing RPM feedback.
  • The alarm triggers if fan speed drops below 700-800 RPM. If your fan naturally operates below this, consider disabling the alarm for that channel via BF1/BF2.
• Incorrect Temperature Control:
  • Ensure the temperature probe is securely connected and positioned correctly to measure the desired temperature.
  • Verify the TP1 and TP2 DIP switch settings match your desired temperature zones.
  • Remember that DIP switch changes require a power cycle to take effect.
• Radio Interference (RFI):
  • Some users have reported RFI from the 25 kHz PWM. If this is an issue, consider shielding the controller and its fan cables with conductive tape and grounding it to the system chassis.

8. Specifications

9. Product Video

10. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the retailer or manufacturer's official website. Keep your purchase receipt for any warranty claims.