Alinan ZK-4KX DC-DC Buck Boost Converter

1. Product Overview

The Alinan ZK-4KX is a versatile DC-DC Buck Boost Converter designed to regulate voltage and current. It can step up or step down an input voltage within a wide range, providing a stable output for various applications. This module features a clear display for voltage and current, along with multiple adjustable protection mechanisms to ensure safe operation.

Figure 1.1: Front view of the Alinan ZK-4KX Buck Boost Converter, showing the display and control buttons.

Key Features:

• Wide Input/Output Range: Input 5.0-30V, Output 0.5-30V.
• High Current Capability: Stable 3A, up to 4A with enhanced heat dissipation.
• Adjustable Output: Easily set output voltage and constant current.
• Comprehensive Protection: Includes input anti-reverse connection, output anti-reverse irrigation, undervoltage, overvoltage, overcurrent, overpower, overtemperature, timeout, and super capacity protection.
• Digital Display: Real-time display of voltage, current, power, capacity, and time.
• Soft Start Function: Prevents module failure during high power and load startup.

2. Specifications

Figure 2.1: Dimensions of the Alinan ZK-4KX module.

3. Setup and Connections

Before operating the module, ensure all connections are secure and correct. The module features clearly labeled input and output terminals.

Connection Steps:

1. Identify the VIN+ and VIN- terminals for input power.
2. Connect your DC power source to the VIN+ (positive) and VIN- (negative) terminals.
3. Identify the OUT+ and OUT- terminals for output power.
4. Connect your load or device to the OUT+ (positive) and OUT- (negative) terminals.
5. Ensure proper polarity for all connections to prevent damage to the module or connected devices.

The module includes input anti-reverse connection protection, meaning it will not be damaged if the input polarity is accidentally reversed. It also has output anti-backflow protection, eliminating the need for an external anti-backflow diode when charging batteries.

Figure 3.1: Rear view showing input (VIN) and output (OUT) terminals.

4. Operating Instructions

The ZK-4KX module is controlled via two buttons (SW, U/I) and a rotary encoder.

4.1. Switching Display Parameters

• Short press SW button: In the normal interface, short press SW to switch the display content below the main voltage/current readings. This cycles through Current (A), Power (W), Capacity (Ah), and Time (h).
• Long press SW button: Long press SW to switch the display content above the main readings. This cycles between Input Voltage (IN) and Output Voltage (OUT).

Figure 4.1: Close-up of the display and control buttons (SW, U/I, Rotary Encoder).

4.2. Setting Output Voltage and Constant Current

1. Enter Setting Mode: In the normal interface, short press the U/I button. A digit of the output voltage value will start flashing.
2. Select Digit: Short press the rotary encoder to move the flashing cursor to the desired digit (e.g., tens, units, decimal places).
3. Adjust Value: Rotate the encoder left or right to increase or decrease the value of the flashing digit.
4. Confirm and Exit: After setting, press the U/I button twice to return to the normal interface. Alternatively, the module will automatically return to the normal interface after 10 seconds of inactivity.

4.3. Setting Default ON/OFF State of Module Power

1. Enter Parameter Setting: Long press the U/I button in the normal interface. The display will show either "OPEN OFF" or "OPEN ON".
2. Switch State: Long press the rotary encoder to toggle between "OPEN OFF" (output is OFF by default when power is ON) and "OPEN ON" (output is ON by default when power is ON).
3. Confirm and Exit: After setting, long press the U/I button to return to the normal interface.

4.4. Calibration Notes

• Voltage Calibration: Calibration can only be started when the voltage is above 12V.
• Current Calibration: Calibration can only be started when the current is above 1A.

5. Protection Mechanisms

The ZK-4KX module incorporates multiple software protection mechanisms. When the module's working parameters exceed a set protection threshold, the output will automatically be turned off to prevent damage.

Adjusting Protection Parameters:

Short press the rotary encoder to select which digit you want to set for a protection parameter. Rotate the encoder left and right to adjust the value. Long press the rotary encoder to enable or disable specific protection parameters (only timeout protection and super capacity protection can be toggled ON/OFF; others are ON by default).

List of Protection Parameters:

• LUP (Input Undervoltage Protection): Adjustable from 4.8V to 30V (default 4.8V).
• OUP (Output Overvoltage Protection): Adjustable from 0.5V to 31V (default 31V).
• OCP (Output Overcurrent Protection): Adjustable from 0A to 4.1A (default 4.1A).
• OPP (Overpower Protection): Adjustable from 0W to 50W (default 50W).
• OTP (Overtemperature Protection): Adjustable from 80℃ to 110℃ (default 110℃).
• OHP (Timeout Protection): Adjustable from 0h to 100h (default OFF).
• OAP (Super Capacity Protection): Adjustable from 0Ah to 60Ah (default OFF).

6. Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Alinan ZK-4KX module, follow these general maintenance guidelines:

• Cleaning: Keep the module clean and free from dust and debris. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning. Avoid using liquid cleaners or solvents.
• Environment: Operate the module in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures, humidity, or corrosive environments.
• Connections: Periodically check all wire connections to ensure they are secure and free from corrosion.
• Heat Dissipation: For continuous operation at higher currents (approaching 4A) or power (approaching 50W), ensure adequate heat dissipation. This may involve providing additional airflow or attaching a larger heatsink if necessary.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Alinan ZK-4KX module, consider the following common troubleshooting steps:

• No Output/Module Off:
  • Check input power supply: Ensure the input voltage is within the 5.0V-30V range.
  • Verify connections: Confirm all input and output wires are correctly connected and secure.
  • Check protection settings: The module may have triggered a protection mechanism (e.g., LUP, OUP, OCP, OPP, OTP). Review the display for error codes or indicators and adjust protection thresholds if necessary.
  • Check default ON/OFF state: Ensure the module is set to "OPEN ON" if you expect it to power on automatically.
• Incorrect Output Voltage/Current:
  • Recalibrate: If readings seem inaccurate, perform voltage and current calibration as described in Section 4.4.
  • Adjust settings: Re-enter the setting mode (Section 4.2) to ensure the desired output voltage and current limits are correctly set.
  • Check load: Ensure the load is not drawing more current or power than the module's capacity or set limits.
• Overheating:
  • Reduce load: Operating close to the maximum current/power limits without sufficient cooling can cause overheating.
  • Improve ventilation: Ensure adequate airflow around the module. Consider adding a fan or larger heatsink for continuous high-power operation.
  • Check OTP setting: Verify the Overtemperature Protection (OTP) threshold is set appropriately.

8. Warranty and Support

Alinan products are designed for reliability and performance. For specific warranty details, please refer to the product's purchase documentation or contact your retailer.

Customer Support:

If you require technical assistance or have questions not covered in this manual, please contact Alinan customer support through the platform where you purchased the product or visit the official Alinan website for contact information.

Please have your product model number (ZK-4KX) and purchase details ready when contacting support.