OwlTree PC039b

OwlTree PC039b 4 Pin 12V PWM Fan Controller Instruction Manual

Model: PC039b

Introduction

Thank you for choosing the OwlTree PC039b 4 Pin 12V PWM Fan Controller. This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient use of your fan controller, including setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the product and retain it for future reference.

Product Overview

Components Included

  • 1 x OwlTree 4 Pin 12V PWM Fan Speed Controller
  • 1 x USB-Type C Power Cable
  • 1 x 4Pin 5 Way PWM Fan Splitter Hub
OwlTree 4 Pin 12V PWM Fan Controller, USB-C cable, and 5-way fan splitter hub

Image: The OwlTree 4 Pin 12V PWM Fan Controller, USB-Type C power cable, and the 4Pin 5 Way PWM Fan Splitter Hub are included in the package.

Key Features

  • Wide Compatibility: Compatible with most 12V PWM fans and pumps. Suitable for cooling applications in routers, small hosts, soft routing setups, and other DIY projects.
  • 5V Type-C Input: Utilizes a Type-C female port for power input, compatible with standard 5V Type-C chargers.
  • 12V PWM Output: Features a built-in DC-DC boost circuit to convert 5V input to 12V output for PWM fans. Speed regulation is achieved via PWM signals.
  • Integrated Solution: Combines power supply and speed control in one unit for convenient use.
  • Fan Splitter Hub: Includes a 4-pin 5-way fan splitter hub, allowing multiple fans to be connected and controlled simultaneously.
  • Adjustable Speed: Offers a PWM duty cycle range of 0-100% for precise fan speed control.

Safety Information

  • Power Supply: Always use a 5V Type-C power adapter. Ensure the charger's total power output exceeds the combined total power consumption of all connected fans for optimal performance and to achieve full fan speed.
  • Fan Compatibility: This controller is designed exclusively for 4-pin 12V PWM fans. It is not compatible with 3-pin or 2-pin fans. Connecting incompatible fans may result in damage to the fans or the controller.
  • Maximum Output: The maximum output power (15-18W, 1.2-1.5A) is determined by the capability of your 5V Type-C power adapter.
  • Installation: Ensure all connections are secure before applying power. Avoid short circuits.
  • Environment: Do not expose the device to moisture, extreme temperatures, or corrosive environments.

Setup Instructions

  1. Connect Fans to Splitter Hub: Connect your 4-pin 12V PWM fans to the 4Pin 5 Way PWM Fan Splitter Hub. The hub allows you to connect up to five fans.
  2. Connect Splitter Hub to Controller: Connect the 4-pin cable from the splitter hub to the 4-pin output socket on the OwlTree fan controller.
  3. Connect Power Cable: Insert one end of the provided USB-Type C cable into the Type-C input port on the fan controller.
  4. Connect Power Source: Plug the other end of the USB-Type C cable into a compatible 5V Type-C power adapter (not included). Ensure the power adapter is capable of supplying sufficient current for all connected fans.
  5. Verify Connections: Double-check all connections to ensure they are firm and correctly oriented.
Diagram showing connection of multiple 4-pin PWM fans to the splitter hub, then to the OwlTree controller, powered by a 5V USB-C charger.

Image: Connection diagram illustrating how to connect multiple 4-pin PWM fans to the splitter hub, which then connects to the OwlTree controller. The controller is powered by a 5V USB-C charger.

Diagram showing 5V Type-C input and 12V 4-pin PWM output on the OwlTree controller, with examples of compatible 5V power sources.

Image: The controller accepts 5V input via a Type-C port and provides 12V output for 4-pin PWM fans. Compatible power sources include A-port and C-port charging heads, routers, power banks, notebooks, and desktop computers.

Setup Demonstration Video

Video: This video demonstrates the connection and operation of the fan speed controller with multiple fans, showing how to adjust fan speed.

Operating Instructions

Once the controller is properly connected and powered, you can adjust the fan speed using the integrated rotary knob.

  • To Increase Speed: Turn the knob clockwise.
  • To Decrease Speed: Turn the knob counter-clockwise.
  • To Turn Off: Continue turning the knob counter-clockwise until the fans stop.
Image showing the rotary knob on the OwlTree fan controller, with arrows indicating clockwise for speed increase and counter-clockwise for speed decrease/off.

Image: The rotary knob controls fan speed. Turn clockwise to increase speed, and counter-clockwise to decrease speed or turn off the fans.

Maintenance

  • Cleaning: Use a dry, soft cloth to clean the exterior of the controller. Do not use liquid cleaners or solvents.
  • Storage: Store the device in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture when not in use.
  • Inspection: Periodically check cables and connections for any signs of wear or damage.

Troubleshooting

ProblemPossible CauseSolution
Fans not spinning or spinning slowly.
  • Insufficient power from the charger.
  • Incompatible fans (3-pin or 2-pin).
  • Loose connections.
  • Knob set to minimum speed/off.
  • Ensure your 5V Type-C charger provides enough power (total power must exceed fan consumption).
  • Verify fans are 4-pin 12V PWM type.
  • Check all cable connections for security.
  • Turn the rotary knob clockwise to increase speed.
Intermittent fan operation.
  • Power supply instability.
  • Overload (too many fans or high power draw).
  • Use a stable and sufficiently powerful 5V Type-C charger.
  • Reduce the number of connected fans or use fans with lower power consumption.
Controller not responding.
  • No power to the controller.
  • Faulty USB-Type C cable.
  • Ensure the power adapter is plugged in and functional.
  • Try a different USB-Type C cable.

Specifications

FeatureDetail
Model NumberPC039b
BrandOwlTree
Input Voltage5V (via Type-C USB)
Output Voltage12V (for 4-pin PWM fans)
Max Output Power15-18W
Max Output Current1.2-1.5A
Fan Compatibility4-pin 12V PWM fans only (not compatible with 3-pin/2-pin fans)
Speed AdjustmentPWM duty cycle 0-100% (rotary knob)
Dimensions (Controller)Approx. 47.5mm x 22mm x 18mm
Item Weight2.89 ounces (0.08 Kilograms)
ColorBlack
Dimensions of the OwlTree fan controller: 47.5mm length, 22mm width, 18mm height.

Image: Physical dimensions of the OwlTree fan controller.

Dimensions of the 4-pin 5-way fan splitter hub (330mm cable length) and the USB-Type C power cable (250mm cable length).

Image: Dimensions of the included 4-pin 5-way fan splitter hub and the USB-Type C power cable.

Warranty and Support

For warranty information or technical support, please refer to the product packaging or contact OwlTree customer service directly. Contact details can typically be found on the manufacturer's official website or through your point of purchase.