The Lippert Connect™ Unity X4 with Bluetooth® Control Board is an OEM installation manual for a sophisticated control system designed for recreational vehicles (RVs) and similar applications. This device primarily facilitates the operation and adjustment of various RV systems via a mobile smart device using a Bluetooth connection. It is intended for OEM installation, and a configurator kit is supplied to OEMs for programming configurable inputs and latching/reversing outputs.
Function Description:
The Unity X4 Control Board serves as a central hub for managing multiple electrical and mechanical systems within an RV. Its core functionality revolves around providing configurable inputs and outputs to control lighting, HVAC, generators, tank sensors, and other accessories. The system is designed to be highly customizable, allowing OEMs to tailor its operation to specific RV models and user preferences.
Key functional areas include:
- RGB and Dimming Lighting Control: The board supports up to two zones of RGB LED lighting, with each zone capable of drawing up to 8 amps. It also provides dimmable LED lighting control for up to 8 zones, offering +12V output. Input signals from up to 10 toggle or momentary light switches can be connected to control these dimming zones.
- Latching Relays: The system offers both high current (HC) and low current (LC) latching outputs. HC latching connections are available for 10 amp and 20 amp +12V outputs, while LC latching connections provide up to 8 low current (5 amp max) +12V outputs. These are configurable for various applications, such as controlling lights, pumps, or other on/off devices.
- Reverse Polarity Outputs: The Unity X4 includes both low current (LC) and high current (HC) reversing outputs. Up to 4 LC reversing outputs (15 amp max) are available via spade-style connections, and up to 3 HC reversing outputs (30 amp max) are also available via spade-style connections. These are typically used for controlling motors that require directional changes, such as slide-outs, landing gear, or vent covers.
- HVAC Control: The board provides connections for up to three zones of HVAC control, specifically for AC units with analog controllers. Each zone can be configured for features like gas heat, AC, or heat pump, and includes thermistor inputs for temperature monitoring.
- Generator Control: The system allows for the integration and control of a generator, including start, stop, and pilot signal monitoring. An hour meter function is also available for tracking generator usage.
- Tank Monitoring: Inputs are available for monitoring up to 7 holding tanks, 3 fuel tanks, a DSI fault light, and the chassis battery.
- Configurable Inputs: These inputs are designed to add physical switches to any latching or reverse polarity features, accepting +12V signals.
- Lockout Features: The system incorporates lockout functionality for moving features, with inputs for +12V switch ignition (for motorized units) and brake wire signals (for trailer harnesses) to prevent operation during transit.
- Arctic Out: A +12V high current (HC) 30 amp maximum output, referred to as "Arctic Out," is available for tank heaters.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Power Supply: Requires +12V power and ground connections. Each +12V connection (for dimming LEDs, reverse polarity, latching outputs, and logic power) must be supplied from separate breakers and fused with a properly-sized fuse or auto-reset breaker per RVIA standards.
- Main Power: Connect +12V to the main terminal stud, fused with a 30A circuit at the power converter or a 30A mini breaker in line from the battery disconnect.
- RGB LED Inputs: Each RGB input can power one zone of LEDs, drawing up to 8 amps. A second RGB receptacle (RGB-2) is available for additional zones.
- Latching Outputs (HC): 10 amp and 20 amp +12V outputs.
- Latching Outputs (LC): 5 amp maximum +12V outputs.
- Reversing Outputs (LC): 15 amp maximum.
- Reversing Outputs (HC): 30 amp maximum.
- CAN Connections: Two 2-pin data cable (CAN) connection ports for linking modules in the Lippert Connect system. A terminating resistor must be used in the unused CAN connector if no other modules are present.
- Minimum Operating Voltage: Configurable options from None, 10.0V, 10.5V, 11.0V, 11.5V, 12.0V, 12.5V, 13.0V, or 13.5V.
- ON/OFF Input: Configurable from Not Set, 1 to 16.
- DSI Fault Input: Configurable from Not Set, 1 to 16.
- Device Activation Timeout: Configurable from Disabled to various increments from 1 minute to 1 hour.
Usage Features:
The primary user interface for the Unity X4 Control Board is the Lippert Connect app on a mobile smart device, connected via Bluetooth. However, the initial configuration and programming are performed through the OCTP (OneControl Touch Pad) configurator.
- Mobile App Control: Users can access and adjust system settings and operate connected devices directly from their smart device.
- OEM Configuration: OEMs use a dedicated configurator kit to program the configurable inputs and outputs. This involves:
- Device Naming: Assigning specific names (e.g., "Ceiling Light 1," "Bedroom Slide") to various outputs for easy identification.
- Fuse Type Selection: Specifying the appropriate fuse type for each output.
- Operation Modes: Configuring ignition operation mode (Always or Only with Ignition On) and park brake operation mode (Always or Only with Park Brake On) for certain features.
- In-Motion Lockout Level: Setting lockout levels for moving features (Operation allowed, Operation NOT allowed, or Only Retract allowed) to ensure safety during travel.
- Switch Type Selection: Choosing between Toggle Switch or Momentary Switch for physical inputs.
- Input Assignment: Assigning specific input numbers for ON/OFF, DSI Fault, and Extend/Retract functions.
- Diagnostic Information: The OCTP configurator provides access to diagnostic information, including app version and device status.
- Resync Devices: Option to resync devices and remove 'offline' devices.
- Units Selection: Ability to select temperature units (e.g., Fahrenheit).
Maintenance Features:
The manual primarily focuses on installation and configuration, with limited explicit maintenance features for the board itself. However, the design implies certain aspects that contribute to maintainability:
- Watertight Installation: The controller must be installed in a watertight location to protect its electronic components from moisture, which is crucial for longevity and preventing failures.
- Fusing and Breakers: The requirement for properly-sized fuses and auto-reset breakers for all power connections acts as a protective measure, preventing damage to the board and connected devices in case of overcurrents. This simplifies troubleshooting by isolating electrical faults.
- Modular Design (CAN Bus): The use of CAN connections for linking modules suggests a modular system where individual components can be replaced or added without affecting the entire system, simplifying repairs and upgrades.
- Configurator Access: The ability to access and reconfigure settings via the OCTP configurator allows for easy adjustments and troubleshooting of system parameters without requiring physical access to the board for every change.
- Error Reporting (DSI Fault Input): The DSI fault input allows the system to monitor and report potential issues with direct spark ignition systems, aiding in early detection and resolution of problems.
The manual emphasizes safety warnings regarding proper installation and operation to prevent personal injury, product damage, and voiding of the warranty, underscoring the importance of correct procedures for the device's long-term performance.