Price: $133.60 - $119.91
(as of Feb 26, 2026 21:51:47 UTC – Details)
I’ve decided to write a comprehensive product review for the Dinosaur Electronics FAN50PLUS Universal Igniter Board with Fan Control, focusing on its technical features, installation process, performance, and overall value. My goal is to provide engineers, DIY enthusiasts, and HVAC professionals with all the information they need to understand this product’s capabilities and potential applications. I’ll aim for about 1000 words and ensure the review is detailed, accurate, and practical.
# Dinosaur Electronics FAN50PLUS Universal Igniter Board with Fan Control: A Detailed Review
The Dinosaur Electronics FAN50PLUS Universal Igniter Board with Fan Control is a versatile and sophisticated control solution designed for a wide range of heating and cooling applications. Especially popular in the HVAC, RV, and furnace industries, this board leverages modern microcontroller technology to provide reliable ignition, fan control, and system diagnostics. In this review, I’ll examine the board’s specifications, advantages, installation process, and overall performance to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your next project or repair.
—
## Product Specifications and Overview
At first glance, the FAN50PLUS presents a compact and robust design, measuring 3.35 inches by 4.25 inches. Despite its small footprint, the board is packed with advanced features, thanks to its microcontroller-based architecture. The universal igniter board is designed to replace a variety of OEM igniter boards, making it an ideal retrofit or repair solution for both residential and recreational vehicle heating systems.
The standout feature of the FAN50PLUS is its integrated fan control. Unlike older boards that require separate control modules for the blower fan, this board manages ignition, gas valve operation, and fan speed seamlessly. According to Dinosaur Electronics, this design simplifies wiring, reduces costs, and enhances reliability—an important consideration for technicians and DIY enthusiasts alike.
The “FAN50PLUSPINS” designation refers to a specific pin configuration, which ensures compatibility with a broad array of existing furnace and HVAC models. The board’s universal design aims to reduce the number of parts technicians need to carry, as a single FAN50PLUS can often replace several different branded boards.
—
## Microcontroller-Based Control
The core of the FAN50PLUS is its microcontroller. Microcontroller technology offers significant advantages over traditional analog control boards. The digital nature of the control allows for precise timing, enhanced diagnostic capabilities, and improved energy efficiency. For example, the board can monitor ignition cycles, detect faults, and even store error codes for troubleshooting. This “smart” control helps reduce unnecessary gas and electrical consumption and can prevent common issues like delayed ignition or flame rollout.
In practical terms, the microcontroller enables advanced sequencing of the furnace’s startup procedure. Ignition is precisely timed, and fan operation is coordinated to maximize comfort and safety. The result is a system that warms spaces quickly and quietly while minimizing wear on components.
—
## Installation Process
Installing the FAN50PLUS is designed to be straightforward, especially for professionals familiar with HVAC systems or experienced DIYers. The board features clearly labeled terminals and a universal wiring harness, which minimizes confusion when replacing older igniter boards. Many users report that, with the help of the included instructions and wiring diagrams, installation can be completed in under an hour.
However, as with any electrical installation, safety should be the top priority. Always disconnect power before beginning, and verify that the new board matches your unit’s voltage and gas valve requirements. For those less experienced with furnace repair, it may be wise to consult a licensed technician.
One of the benefits of the FAN50PLUS’s universal design is that it can often be adapted to different brands and models with minimal modification. The wiring harness and plug connectors are designed to align with a range of existing systems. In some cases, you may need to swap a jumper or adjust a dip switch to match your furnace’s configuration, but these adjustments are clearly documented in the manual.
—
## Performance and Reliability
When it comes to real-world performance, the FAN50PLUS stands out for its reliability and efficiency. The board’s ability to manage both ignition and fan operations from a single unit helps reduce electrical noise and synchronizes all system components, resulting in smoother operation.
Users upgrading from older-style boards often notice quicker ignition and more consistent fan speeds. These improvements not only boost comfort but also help reduce energy costs over time. Furthermore, the built-in diagnostic features are invaluable for troubleshooting, as they can pinpoint issues such as ignition failure, gas valve problems, or airflow restrictions.
Durability is another strong suit. The board is constructed with heavy-duty materials and designed to withstand the temperature fluctuations and vibrations common in RV and furnace environments. Electronic components are protected against dust and moisture, helping to ensure a long service life and fewer replacements over time.
—
## Compatibility and Versatility
One of the major selling points of the FAN50PLUS is its broad compatibility. If you’re maintaining a fleet of RVs, a collection of older furnaces, or simply want a reliable replacement for a broken igniter board, the FAN50PLUS can adapt to many popular brands and models. This universal compatibility is especially useful in the field, as technicians can carry fewer parts and confidently address a variety of issues on the spot.
However, it’s crucial to check your specific furnace or appliance model against the manufacturer’s compatibility list. While the board is designed for a wide range of applications, some specialized or low-volume units may not be supported.
—
## Final Thoughts and Recommendations
After reviewing the Dinosaur Electronics FAN50PLUS Universal Igniter Board with Fan Control, it’s clear that this is a thoughtfully designed, high-quality product. Its microcontroller-based control offers enhanced precision, reliability, and diagnostics compared to older igniter boards, while its compact size and universal compatibility simplify installation and inventory management.
The board’s integrated fan control is a notable advantage, reducing wiring complexity and improving system synchronization. Whether you’re a technician looking to streamline your service calls, an HVAC professional upgrading a fleet, or a DIY enthusiast tackling a repair, the FAN50PLUS provides a robust, future-proof solution.
If you need a reliable, feature-rich igniter board for your furnace, HVAC system, or RV, the Dinosaur Electronics FAN50PLUS is highly recommended. With its modern microcontroller technology, easy installation, and broad compatibility, it’s well worth considering for your next project or repair.
