RPC PowerPole User manual

Controlled PowerPole
Distribution Block
User Manual
Rev A.

Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. Package Contents
3. Device Overview
4. Interface Connections
5. Trigger Methods

1. Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the Controller PowerPole Distribution Block! This device is a
unique play on the standard PowerPole distribution power block that is commonly used
for connecting several devices to a single +12VDC power supply. What sets this device
apart from the others is the ability to remotely control two of the power ports. Ports
four (4) and five (5) are tied through on-board 10 Amp relays and can be activated by
simply grounding the control line either through a switch or other means of mechanical
connection.
2. Package Contents
Upon opening the package, you will find the following items:
● Five Port Controlled PowerPole Distribution Block
● 1x PowerPole Connector Kit

3. Device Overview
The Controlled PowerPole Distribution Block has a single input connector on the end
of the unit that accepts a standard PowerPole, connected to any +12VDC source.
There are five output ports located on the topside of the unit. The ports are numbered
from left to right, 1-5. Ports four (4) and five (5) are connected through the on-board
10 Amp relays. The on-board relay’s coils are rated at +12VDC, so be sure to not
exceed this voltage level. +12VDC is the most common system voltage used in mobile
environments.
4. Interface Connections
Relay Trigger Control - The green header is a pluggable style and can be
removed or left in place for wire connection. A small flat tipped screwdriver is
needed to make the connection.
The connection pinout can be found in the diagram below:

5. Trigger Methods
1. Double Ended - A complete circuit is made by shorting the “Trigger” and
“GND”
connections together. This can be done by using a simple switch. In this method
the “GND” is a ground return connection, used to trigger the port. This method
requires two wires per port to be ran from the unit to the controlling switch.
2. Single Ended - When using a common ground system (typical of a DC
voltage
system), any ground in the system can function as a trigger. This eliminates the
need for a return ground from the distribution block. Instead, any ground
connection
available near the switch’s location will trigger the relay.
* Either port can also be “Hot all of the time” by placing a simple wire jumper
between these two points on the header and a switch is not required. This forces
the relay(s) to be engaged all of the time and you will not have switch capability.