CBE DS Powerblock Series

Overview

The CBE DS Powerblock Series is a modular electrical distribution system commonly used in motorhomes and caravans. The system consists of a distribution board and intelligent control panels (such as the PC320 display) that interface via a simple pin-switching and analog signaling interface.

Hardware Architecture

System Components

  1. Distribution Board (DS-300)

    • Passive electrical distribution with relay-controlled outputs
    • 16-pin socket for display connection
    • Relays activated by ground switching from display
  2. Control Panel (e.g., PC320)

    • Intelligent controller with user interface
    • Sends control signals to activate relays on distribution board
    • Handles all system logic and user interaction
    • Evaluates sensor signals (forwarded from distribution board)

Pin Configuration and Control Interface

The CBE DS Powerblock Series uses a simple electrical interface with no digital communication protocol. All control and monitoring is accomplished through direct pin switching and analog voltage levels.

The connection between the distribution board and the display panel uses a TE Connectivity AMPMODU MOD II 16-pin connector. The connector is a dual-row configuration with 2.54mm (0.1") pitch, compatible with standard MOD II mating connectors. Available variants:

  • 280390-2: Right-angle connector
  • 280385-2: Straight connector

On the PCB, this socket is designated as J9.

CBE DS300-TR Distribution Board Schematic
CBE DS300 Block Diagram
16-pin header pin assignment

Pinout Table

PinFunctionDescription
1TBD-
2Fresh water pin 2Fresh water tank sensor
3GNDGround
4Fridge relayFridge relay control (12V to activate, not ground-switched)
5OUT D+D+ output (alternator charging signal)
6Relay WaterpumpWater pump relay control
7Fresh water pin 4Fresh water tank sensor
8Fresh water pin 3Fresh water tank sensor
9Grey water pin 2Grey water tank sensor
10Signal 230V230V AC presence signal
11AGND (Tank sensors)Analog ground for tank sensors
1212V+ (B1)12V power supply
13TBD-
14Main/Lights relayMain 12V or lights relay control
1512V+ (B2)12V power supply
16TBD-

Note: Most relay control uses ground-switching logic (low-side switching), where the display pulls pins LOW to activate relays. The fridge relay (pin 4) is an exception and uses 12V to activate.

This documentation is a work in progress. As reverse engineering continues, more detailed information about pinouts, voltage ranges, and signal characteristics will be added.