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Guy Stewart • 13 April 2026

Introducing Victron Microgrid

What if you could build large off-grid systems with the same simplicity as small ones – just by adding more independent units, increasing reliability, and scaling total capacity as you grow? Large off-grid systems have traditionally been complex to build and difficult to change; Victron Microgrid takes a different approach. Victron Microgrid allows multiple independent Victron inverter/charger systems, named “Power Banks” to operate in parallel on a shared AC bus – even when Power Bank sizes vary – forming high-power off-grid systems that automatically share the load. Each Power Bank is a complete, independent Victron installation with its own inverter/chargers, batteries and monitoring. No central controller, and no data communication wiring between units. If you need more power you can just add another Power Bank, and scale the system – up to 400 kW. Why Victron Microgrid? Scale beyond a single system. Multiple Power Banks on a shared AC bus let you build off-grid systems much larger than a single VE.Bus system, without the complexity and risk of one big centralised inverter installation. Keep running when a unit goes down. Each Power Bank operates on its own. If one is taken offline for service or develops a fault, the rest continue supplying the AC bus uninterrupted. Removing any single point of failure. Add or remove capacity without downtime. Connect more Power Banks to the Microgrid as demand grows. Disconnect them when demand drops or maintenance is needed. No reprogramming required, and the AC bus stays live to loads the whole time. Build with what installers already know. No new hardware. Victron Microgrid uses the same inverter/chargers, batteries, charge controllers and GX devices that installers already work with. Each Power Bank is monitored through its own GX device and VRM. Move equipment between sites. Perfect for rental: containerised Power Banks can go from one project to the next. When a job is done, the same hardware returns to the depot and goes out again ready to join another Microgrid. A standard, efficient container build can be used to satisfy a broad range of applications by simply joining them together via AC wiring on site. Applications Because each Power Bank is self-contained, Victron Microgrid works well on sites where demand changes over time and equipment may need to move between projects. 1. Generator rental fleets Rental operators can treat Power Banks as modular fleet assets. Instead of maintaining many fixed-capacity systems for different jobs, stock standardised Power Banks and combine them to match each contract. A smaller deployment might use two Power Banks; a larger job may need six or more. When a contract ends, the same units return to the depot and go out again in a different combination. Power Banks can be grouped together as a Microgrid in VRM to provide remote monitoring, alarms and visibility across active sites. 2. Construction sites Construction sites often have a stable base-load with temporary spikes in demand. Site offices, lighting and tools may run for months at one level, then a crane, welding gear or other heavy equipment drives consumption up. Extra Power Banks can be brought to site, connected to the AC bus for the peak period, and removed when it’s over. Match capacity to the actual stage of the project and reduce dependence on generator runtime where silent, battery-based power is preferred or required. 3. Events and festivals Demand profiles shift across bump-in, live operation and bump-out. Peak power may only be needed for part of the schedule, but reliable supply is needed throughout. Deploy more Power Banks for peak periods, fewer for quieter ones with no need to redesign the system. If the programme changes, add capacity quickly by connecting another Power Bank to the AC bus. And if one unit has an issue, the rest keep running. 4. Expanding existing off-grid systems Victron Microgrid is also a practical way to upgrade an existing Victron off-grid installation. Instead of pulling a working system apart to make it bigger, install a second Power Bank alongside it and connect both to the same AC bus. The original system stays as it is and just becomes one of the Power Banks in the Microgrid. This is useful for containerised or remote installations where reworking what’s already there would be disruptive. Each Power Bank manages its own charging, so the new unit needs its own charging sources such as additional solar, a DC generator connection, or other DC charging. How Victron Microgrid works A Power Bank is a complete Victron off-grid system: one or more VE.Bus inverter/chargers, a battery bank, DC distribution, DC charging sources, and a GX device for monitoring. In a Victron Microgrid, multiple Power Banks connect to a shared AC bus and work together as one large power system. Load sharing between units happens automatically via AC voltage and frequency, without the need for a central controller, communication between power banks or complex configurations. This decentralised approach keeps the system simple and reliable. Three-phase and split-phase configurations are supported as well. Independent charging – no central controller needed Decentralised DC charging is what makes this controller-less approach work. Each Power Bank manages its own state of charge using its own charging sources. Victron supports a range of charging options: MPPT solar charge controllers for DC-coupled PV AC chargers (such as MultiPlus, Quattro or Multi RS) connected to an AC generator or other AC supply, independent of the Microgrid AC bus. DC generator integration (including start/stop automation) Getting started Victron Microgrid is available via a dedicated VE.Bus firmware for MultiPlus, MultiPlus-II, Quattro and Quattro-II. Walk through the concept, configuration and commissioning with these training videos: Introduction Programming Demonstration The Technical manual covers installation and configuration in detail. See this Slide deck for a more visual overview. Contact a Victron distributor to discuss whether Victron Microgrid fits your application.

Justin Tyers • 04 May 2022

Intersolar Europe 2022 – Preview

We’re looking forward to meeting you face-to-face at Intersolar Europe! It’s the world’s largest exhibition of Solar Energy, and takes place on May 11th, 12th or 13th at Messe München . Best known for our Inverter/Chargers and Solar Charge Controllers – we’re always adding exciting new devices to our range of products for private energy installations – for Industry, Leisure, Home, Off-Grid, and Mobile working. This year is no exception – We’ve got some great new products to show you when you come to our stand – number B4.160. For example, you’ll be able to take a really close look at our brand new Electric Vehicle Charging Station . Incorporating an LCD Touch Screen, it’s a 32A charger capable of providing 22kW of power from a 3-Phase supply, or 7.3kW from a standard single-phase supply. Fully programmable and customisable. User defined light rings provide at-a-glance state of charge. WiFi Communication on board. Can be programmed to use surplus Solar Energy. The latest addition to our extensive range of Inverter/Chargers is the Quattro-II 48/5000 . As part of an ESS (Energy Storage System) it maximises the consumption of ‘home’ produced energy. 2 AC inputs – power will automatically be taken from a connected grid or generator, whichever has live AC available. 2 AC outputs – Second AC output is only active when there is an AC input, so non-essential loads are dropped in case of loss of grid or generator power. Plus all the useful features of our Inverter/Charger range The Multi RS Solar 48/6000 is an Inverter Charger with a 450V Solar Charger on board. It also has a bi-directional DC-DC charger which charges the battery with excess solar power, or converts power from the battery when required. The 4kWp Solar Charger can be daisy chained to more Solar Chargers, with the possibility of synchronised charging; the Multi RS can also be connected to PV Inverters. 80 – 450VDC input Display. Data can also be read from phone or Bluetooth device. Extendable PV capacity – both AC and DC coupled. Can be connected to a GX device via VE Can. Can be connected to a GlobalLink 520 vie VE Direct The new SmartShunt IP65 is an all-in-one battery monitor which you access using your phone – via Bluetooth. The unit allows clutter-free installation, having less cabling – and its IP65 rating allows it to be installed in tough environments such as an engine room which might be prone to dust and water spray. Remote data access via your phone means it can be installed out-of-sight and out of the way. The SmartShunt is available in three models: 500A / 1000A / 2000A Extensive Live and Historic Data parameters available straight to your phone Can also be read by a GX device for screen data display Can monitor second battery, midpoint monitoring, or temperature input 500A / 1000A /2000A models available Much more to see You’ll be able to see many more new products on our stand. Here are the additional products we will be able to demonstrate on your visit: Easysolar-II GX 48/5000 – is a combined Inverter/Charger, Solar Charge Controller, and system controller for easy installation. SmartSolar MPPT RS 450/100 and SmartSolar MPPT RS 450/200 – are Solar Charge Controllers for large PV arrays charging 48 volt batteries. Lynx Smart BMS is a feature-rich Battery Management System for Lithium Batteries Lynx Smart Shunt is a 1000A shunt for systems with a GX device. Part of the cool ‘Lynx’ distribution series. Your visit is a chance to get answers to all your questions about any of these new devices, or any of our hundreds of power products for Leisure, Industry, Marine, Home, and Mobile work setups. Parallel Conference Intersolar Attendees interested in Off-Grid applications might like to register for the parallel conference entitled Off-Grid Innovation – Digital, Control & Monitoring Solutions, Batteries during which our own Bob Hopman will be talking on the subject of: Innovating Integration of Efficient Power Electronics, Monitoring & Control. The conference takes place on Wednesday 11th from 11:00 – 12:30 in Room 12. See you at Intersolar 2022!

Justin Tyers • 25 March 2022

Summer Hobbies / Winter Storage

Summer cabins; Boats, Vans, Motorhomes and Classic vehicle enthusiasts – twice a year, around the solar equinox, it’s time for half the world to take the wraps off their hobbies, and the other half to put them back on. How do you ensure that from the moment the winter cover goes on to the moment it comes off your pride and joy will remain in tip-top condition – no mice, mildew, burst pipes or flat battery? Perhaps you have a winterising tip to share? Do you leave your boat unattended over the winter, for example, with an automatic bilge pump – and then worry what will happen if the battery dies? Well, with these neat ideas you won’t have to wait until spring to find out if it’s still afloat or the ravishes of winter have spoiled your summer plans. First of all let’s hear from Tom Alderdice. Tom is so enthusiastic about van life that he converted his van to both a home and an office, from where he runs his company – Tiny Build Electrics – in the summer …sharing his skills with others. Here’s what he has to say: The Ruuvi sensors Tom refers to are supported by Victron Energy when connected to a Cerbo GX device – instruction for this simple installation can be found here . The supported data is for temperature, humidity and atmospheric pressure. Enthusiasts will find it is also possible to connect Ruuvi sensors to other devices. Next let’s hear from Torstein Kvamme who has a Facebook page in which he generously provides support to Victron Installation DIYers in the Swedish language. Forty years ago, Torstein’s father built a stunning summer cabin amid the filmic scenery of Lofoten, Norway, within the arctic circle. These days he and his family spend precious time there in the summer. When he’s not there he can stay in touch with his power installation using our free-to-use Victron Remote Management platform VRM . That way the family knows everything will be working perfectly when they arrive after their 2000km drive. A moment ago we mentioned boats left afloat and relying on automatic bilge pumps – for remote installations, did you know you can install an IoT cell net device such as the GlobalLink 520 , connect it to a battery monitor or solar charge controller , for example *, from where it will send status information to our VRM platform. In VRM you can set up email alerts to be informed the moment there’s a problem …such as a low battery voltage alarm for example. *(The full list of Victron products compatible with the GlobalLink 520 can be found here .) Let’s hear from Simon Ytterbom, N.America Sales Manager, about how to set up alarms and receive email notifications in VRM: You’ll find plenty more advice about using the hundreds of features of our products by viewing our YouTube channel. And finally – let’s enjoy a short video about how things should work, now that summer beckons. Henrik has a passion for classic motorcycling, and also lives in Sweden. For readers in the tropics it’s worth pointing out that Sweden is not noted for its mild winters. Also – If you have a winterising/dewinterising tip to share we’d love to hear it – please post it as a comment on our Facebook page!

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John Rushworth • 06 February 2020

Cerbo GX & GX Touch 50

The new Cerbo GX, along with the optional GX Touch 50 display, were announced and demonstrated at METS, November 2019 . Personally I’m a great fan of GX devices, the Color Control GX, Venus GX and more – all being a part of the Victron GX product range . Detailed introductory blogpost by Panbo However, my 6 years personal experience is with the Color Control GX model – so I’d be doing you the reader a disservice by reviewing the Cerbo GX. Also, as I blog for Victron, I admit to a natural and faithful bias. It seems only right and proper then to let an independent reviewer give you their take on this exciting new product. What I can say though – is that going by the review on Panbo, the product will be in great demand. For a detailed introduction, I recommend reading the Panbo blog post by Ben Ellison: Victron Cerbo GX, good AC/DC power monitoring gets better . Introductory video GX Touch 50 display The GX Touch 50 is the optional display for the Cerbo GX. Its water proof, thin, and easy to mount. There is a cable coming out on the back with two plugs on it: the HDMI goes into the HDMI port on the Cerbo, and the USB (used to power the display) goes into one of the USB sockets. For all details, including dimensions and the manual, see the GX Touch 50 product page . Optional DIN rail adapter The optional DIN rail adapters are to easily mount the Cerbo GX on a DIN-Rail. Dimensions and details are available on its page on our website . Conclusion When you consider just how far GX devices have come in the last 6 years ( just take a look back to 2014 ), then the Cerbo GX is to my mind the ultimate GX turbo charged device for connectivity. Learn more at the Cerbo GX product page . John Rushworth

Justin Tyers • 30 January 2020

Pay-As-You-Go Solar Charger – New Product Launch

With the DC-powered home or business in mind, this week sees the launch of the SHS 200 MPPT. It’s a Pay-As-You-Go (PAYGo) enabled solar charger which provides power to DC appliances: Fridge; Television; Radio; Hair Clippers; and Mobile phone-charging for example. This is how it works: When a customer prepays for electricity use – which he/she can do by mobile money transfer – they receive a code by text message (SMS) which is typed into the keypad of the SHS 200 MPPT. The device is then unlocked for a period of time – a few days…or a month – making power available to the customer. Electricity provision has been shown to have a huge impact on the lives of families living far from the grid. For the domestic user a system of this size will typically provide sufficient daily power to run all the DC appliances normally found in an off-grid home. For the entrepreneur, reliable electricity is often the resource needed to start a business – using light-industrial power tools, or to refrigerate goods for sale, perhaps – which will have a life-changing impact on the whole community. PAYGo For service providers, the pay-as-you-go model extends the market to customers who – lacking sufficient capital to buy the equipment upfront – are, however, able to afford to buy it over time …whilst enjoying the benefits of electricity from the outset. The SHS 200 MPPT uses OpenPAYGO Token technology – an agnostic PAYGo algorithm which allows distributors to work with their preferred PAYGo platforms (PaygOps, Paygee, Angaza, for example) – or even their own proprietary platform. Power harvest, storage, provision The SHS 200 MPPT can be combined with Solar Panels of up to 200Wp, and a 12V battery (lead or lithium) of up to 160Ah. It has 15 load output ports: 10 USB (≅5V) power outlets. (Port max 1.5A / Overall max 10A) …and five ports offering 10.5VDC to 15VDC with overcurrent protection and resettable fuse, as follows: 2 x 12VDC outlet port up to 3A (Barrel Connector 5.5mm x 2.1mm) 2 x 12VDC outlet port up to 5A (Barrel Connector 5.5mm x 2.1mm) 1 x 12VDC outlet port up to 10A (5.08mm pin space pluggable screw terminal) Installations are designed to be modular – beginning small they can be extended to meet customer’s future requirements. A larger model offering up to 800W will be available in the coming months. SHS 200 MPPT uses the very latest technology to maximise power harvest and storage – including battery temperature sensing; built in protection against reverse polarity; battery over- and under-voltage protection; and over-current protection at the power outlets. Battery terminals can be provided with anti-tamper caps to avoid the supply of un-metered power. The LCD screen provides system interface displaying information such as battery state-of-charge and power usage. For the service provider the screen offers engineering diagnostics. Three languages can be selected: English, French and Swahili. You can view the SHS 200 MPPT at Global Off-Grid Solar Forum & Expo 2020 which takes place on February 18th – 20th, in Nairobi, Kenya.

John Rushworth • 12 November 2019

METS 2019 – Show preview

As ever Victron Energy will be at METS, and as in previous years the show is the launchpad for many new Victron products. In brief this year’s key product launches are: SmartShunt series (500A, 1000A and 2000A). MultiPlus-II 24/3000/70-35: first 24 volt model of the new generation MultiPlus-II range. Cerbo GX, plus the associated GX Touch 50 display. Orion-Tr Smart DC-DC charger range. There’s more, but first you need to get to METS… METSTRADE is a one-stop-shop for marine industry professionals, with over 1,600 exhibitors and thousands of visitors. Where: RAI Amsterdam Convention Centre , Victron Energy B.V. Stand no. 01.541 When: 19 to 21 of November, 2019. Visit: Free Tickets for marine professionals. Now let’s look in more detail at the key new products. SmartShunt series The new Smart series of Shunts consists of three models – 500A, 1000A and 2000A. SmartShunt 500A/50mv MultiPlus-II 24V inverter/charger The new MultiPlus-II 24/3000/70-32 230V is the first 24 volt model of the new generation MultiPlus-II inverter/charger range and it is now in stock, as are the MultiPlus-II 48V versions and the MultiPlus-II 48/3000/35-32 GX . MultiPlus-II 24/3000/70-32 230V Cerbo GX The Cerbo GX product is a new addition to the current Victron GX product range which currently consists of the Color Control GX, Venus GX, CANvu GX, Octo GX, Maxi GX and MultiPlus-II GX, EasySolar-II GX. Cerbo GX and the optional DIN rail adapters Cerbo GX Connections GX Touch 50 display Optional GX Touch 50 display (5″ inch touchscreen) for the Cerbo GX Orion-Tr Smart DC-DC charger range More details of this new DC to DC charger range, which are perfect for dual battery systems in vehicles and boats are in this recent blog . Example of the Orion-Tr Smart DC-DC charger range – shown is the 12/12-30 (360W) model. Other new products on display MultiPlus 1600VA This new style MultiPlus 1600VA (which is set to replace the earlier MultiPlus Compact range) will be on display. Phoenix Inverter Smart 3000VA The Phoenix Inverter Smart is an efficient and reliable inverter. Built on our proven and field tested Phoenix inverter platform, it now comes with a new slimmer design and full metal casing. VE.Bus Smart Dongle The VE.Bus Smart Dongle adds Bluetooth connectivity to our range of inverter/chargers, the Multis and Quattros. It’s perfect for an entry level system in for example a vehicle or boat: it lets the user monitor their system as well as set the input current limit according to the shore connection; all from a phone or tablet with the VictronConnect app. VE.Bus Smart Dongle Product updates MFD GX device integration Well, here’s something many have been waiting for – GX NMEA-2000 out functionality, along with new MFD integration improvements. You’ll need to be at METS to learn more… Keep an eye on the Victron Modifications Space in the Victron Community in the meantime. MFD GX device integration Conclusion As ever there are too many new products (a good thing!) to go into in depth in this short preview blog for METS. However we hope this blog gives our end users an insight into what to expect in the coming months. In the meantime if you are in the B2B category we look forward to welcoming you to METS 2019 in Amsterdam, between Tuesday 19th to Thursday 21st November, to get the full Victron Energised experience! And for our end users, keep an eye on the Victron blog and the Victron Community for pending individual, in depth reviews on the METS featured products and chat, respectively. If you haven’t done so already why not subscribe to the blog and be notified of new blogs – hit the subscribe button in this page . John Rushworth

John Rushworth • 10 October 2019

New Product: Orion-Tr Smart DC-DC charger

The new Orion-Tr Smart DC-DC charger is designed for use in dual battery systems in vehicles or boats, where the (smart) alternator and the start battery are used to charge the service battery. The model range is suitable for 12V or 24V systems, and both lead acid and lithium batteries. Why do we need Smart DC-DC chargers? The reasons are best explained by this recently published blog: Careful – Alternator Charging Lithium (or how to not blow up your alternator) . Learn about ‘Smart’ Alternators and Auxiliary Battery Charging with Victron Energy retailer 12 Volt Planet . Typical (smart) alternator system Here’s an outline schematic of a typical (smart) alternator vehicle or boat charging system, using the Orion-Tr Smart DC-DC charger, with a lead acid starter battery and a lithium auxiliary battery – along with control and monitoring via VictronConnect. Orion-Tr Smart Chargers Isolated model range 220 – 280 Watt 12/12-18 (220W) 12/24-10 (240W) 24/12-20 (240W) 24/24-12 (280W) 360 – 400 Watt 12/12-30 (360W) 12/24-15 (360W) 24/12-30 (360W) 24/24-17 (400W) Unlimited multiple units can be connected in parallel to increase output power and they are suited for high temperature operation up to 55°C, with a full rated output up to 40°C. The Orion-Tr Smart DC-DC charger range can be monitored and programmed via Bluetooth, using the free VictronConnect app. Whilst you might expect it to report current – the Orion-Tr Smart is not currently designed to measure it, although that is something to be worked on for future versions. In this instance it was a higher priority to get this important new product to market without delay. These chargers can also be remotely controlled via a remote on/off switch and they have an engine running detection mechanism. Orion-Tr Smart showing its mounting, connections and remote on/off switch socket. Conclusion The Orion-Tr Smart range is a welcome addition to Victron Energy’s products, making for simplified charging of lithium and lead acid batteries in dual battery vehicle or boat systems. Here’s the product page , including datasheet, dimensions, manual and high quality images. Models currently in stock (with more to follow) are: Orion-Tr Smart 12/12-30A (360W) Isolated DC-DC charger Orion-Tr Smart 12/24-15A (360W) Isolated DC-DC charger Orion-Tr Smart 24/24-17A (400W) Isolated DC-DC charger John Rushworth

John Rushworth • 27 August 2019

Battery Monitors and Monitoring Solutions

Victron Energy have a comprehensive range of Battery Monitors, Battery Balancers, BMS and Shunt options, plus a wide variety of panel and system monitoring solutions (local & remote) such as the Victron GX product range for example. There’s also a range of complementary accessories . Amongst the many accessories are a range of Temperature Sensors , to name but one product group. Added to all this is the free and ever popular VictronConnect app, plus the VRM Portal (also free) – where device monitoring, product configuration, firmware updates and data can all come together. The beginning and the BMV range In this blog though I want to draw your attention to where all this integration started – the stalwart BMV range. The BMV range consists of products with BMV-7 in the model name; earlier versions had a 6 prefix. Below I highlight the differences between the various current models – so you can be sure you choose the right one for your application and budget. The range consists of: BMV-712 Smart (6.5 – 95 V, 1 – 9999 Ah, Bluetooth built-in, Auxiliary input) The models below, without Bluetooth built-in, we collectively refer to as the BMV-700 series: BMV-702 (6.5 – 95 V, 1 – 9999 Ah, Auxiliary input) BMV-702 [Black] (6.5 – 95 V, 1 – 9999 Ah, Auxiliary input) BMV-700 (6.5 – 95 V, 1 – 9999 Ah) BMV-700H (60 – 385 V, 1 – 9999 Ah) This BMV (Battery Monitor Victron) range are a group of high precision battery monitors. Their essential function is to calculate ampere hours consumed and the state of charge of a battery. Think of these monitors as your battery ‘fuel gauge’, with a time-to-go indicator and much more. Each model comes with a square bezel overlay (if you wish a square gauge look as opposed to round), a securing ring for rear mounting and screws for front mounting. Any model can be mounted in a panel of your choice with a 52mm (2.0 inch) aperture or in one of Victron’s optional bespoke wall enclosures. A 500A/50mV shunt, fitted with a quick connect PCB is part of every product package. Alternatives shunts are available if required: 1000A-50mV, 2000A-50mV, 6000A-50mV . All models come with 10m of 6 core UTP cable with RJ12 connectors and a power supply cable complete with fuse. The BMV range are all compatible with VE.Smart Networking . Note that although the BMV-702, BMV-702 (Black), BMV-700 and BMV-700H do not have Smart Technology built-in, they can all be updated to use it with the optional VE.Direct to Bluetooth Smart dongle . The only downside is that means the VE.Direct communication port is now in use for the dongle, so you cannot connect it to a Victron GX device as well. If you want Victron Smart Technology and GX device connectivity, then buy the BMV-712 Smart. If you don’t need the added functionality of the 712 Smart or are on a budget, then choose one of the other models to suit your needs. BMV-712 Smart This model is the latest evolution of our ever popular BMV range of battery monitors. It has the same functionality as the earlier BMV-702, but with the added benefit of integrated Victron Smart technology; which implements Bluetooth (as in many other Victron Energy products) – giving wireless communication between various products. Victron Smart technology simplifies system setup, monitoring and firmware updates using the free VictronConnect app. The **2 in the product name refers to the fact this product features a second input which can be programmed to measure the voltage (of a second battery), or battery temperature , or midpoint voltage. BMV-712 Smart product page BMV-702 The 702 has the same features as the 700 but in addition (just like the 712 Smart) it has an auxiliary input. This can be used to measure the voltage of a second battery, or temperature using the temperature accessory , or midpoint voltage. BMV-702 product page BMV-702 (Black) Just like the standard grey coloured 702 but with the black colour option. BMV-702 (Black) product page BMV-700 This is the base model for batteries in the 6.5 – 95 voltage range and battery capacities from 1 – 9999 Ah. Unlike the BMV-702 and BMV-712 Smart, the 700 the does not have an auxiliary input. BMV-700 product page BMV-700H The BMV-700H is the high voltage version (60 – 385 voltage range) of the BMV-700 (6.5 – 95 voltage range). The BMV-700H is supplied with a shunt mounting box. Note: The BMV-700H is suitable for systems with grounded negative only, as the battery monitor is not isolated from the shunt. BMV-700H product page Accessories & related products These are just some of the accessories and BMV related products that are key to battery monitoring and the good maintenance of your batteries. Others such as the GX GSM modem and the Smart Battery Sense can be found on the comprehensive accessories page . VE.Direct to Bluetooth Smart dongle (allows BMV-700 series models to use the VictonConnect app over Bluetooth, just like the BMV-712 Smart does with its built-in Bluetooth) Temperature Sensor (use the auxiliary input of BMV-7*2 models to show temperature on your BMV using this accessory) Wall Enclosures ( BMV or BMV + Color Control GX) BMV Wall mount enclosure BMV plus Color Control GX wall mount enclosure Shunts (1000, 2000, and 6000 A/50mV sizes which are alternatives to the standard 500A/50mV shunt supplied with each BMV) 6000A-50mV alternative shunt example Battery Balancer (equalizes the state of charge of two series connected 12V batteries, or of several parallel strings of series connected batteries) Victron GX product range allows expanded battery monitoring options, both local and remote, when used with a BMV (example GX device shown) VE.Direct cables (various lengths) to connect a BMV 7** to a Color Control GX VE.Direct to USB interface (connects several BMV 7** to a Color Control GX or to a computer) VE.Direct LoRaWAN – module (Connect your BMV directly to the VRM [Victron Remote Management] portal ) Conclusion I hope this blog has given some insight into our basic battery monitoring choices and how they can expand to cater for a plethora of system options. Oh! — and if you’ve read this far that includes (for the tinkerers amongst you) an option to join a Beta programme and also experiment with the GX range of open source software. Start here if that appeals to you. John Rushworth

John Rushworth • 22 August 2019

Charge to Win

Back in my day we called it Scrambles, these days we know it as Motocross or MX for short. Not only has the name evolved but so has the sport and the bikes themselves. In a race the worst thing you could do (besides crashing) was stall the bike in a turn, which then involved trying to kickstart a tall, high compression, four stroke single cylinder motorcycle. Even with a decompression lever and the whole ‘decompressor starting faff’, it was still difficult to get going. Less so with automatic decompression systems, yet even more so when hot. The only upside was you got a stronger left or right leg, albeit with a likely offbeat gait 😉 Things thankfully were easier with two strokes, but even that required a knack to kick the bike back into life again. Either way, 4T or 2T, that often meant you were relegated to the back of the pack. These days that is no longer the case as modern 4T MX bikes have push-button start, giving you a chance to work your way back up to the front with fast ‘on-the-button-electric-go’. Victron Energy Blue Smart IP65 Charger Quick race restarts aside, competition (MX & Enduro) and indeed off-road leisure (Trail & Adventure) motorcycles often sit for some weeks between races or rides – when small partially discharged Gel or Lithium batteries may struggle (especially in cold weather) to start the bike, just when you are ready to go out and play. Enter the Blue Smart IP65 Charger; just leave it connected to the bike prior to your next outing and it will automatically maintain the battery. Add in Bluetooth along with the free VictronConnect app and you can even adjust and monitor your charger wirelessly. Whilst motorcycle batteries these days are 12V, the Blue Smart range also caters for other markets too. Here’s the available range: 120V – 12V 4/5/7/10/15A 120V – 24V 5/8A 230V – 12V 4/5/7/10/15A 230V – 24V 5/8A Check the product page to see what input and output voltage, also what current suits your Ah size of battery. A handy table to choose the correct charging current for your battery is included in the datasheets at the page below. Blue Smart IP65 Charger product page: https://www.victronenergy.com/chargers/blue-smart-ip65-charger Accessories Now you have a tip-top charger how about a smart case and any accessories you might need. The accessories available are: Carry Case for Blue Smart IP65 Chargers and accessories 12V cigarette lighter plug 2 meter extension cable Clamp connector M6/M8 eyelet connector Rubber bumper for IP65 Charger Wall Mount for Blue Smart IP65 Charger Battery indicator panel Battery Indicator Eyelet M8 Spread the word Need a quick 1 minute way to tell your customers the key points, here’s a short fun video to help spread the ‘Charge to Win’ word. Conclusion Personally I think the riders of today have got it easy with reliable push-button start. Mind you when I think back to the number of kick backs and the consequent pain that kick-starting motorcycles has caused me – I am now persuaded that electric start, a good battery and a battery charger like the Blue Smart IP65 is the wise move. UB-LEISURE are Victron Energy resellers , based in East Pretoria, South Africa. If you are in that part of the world, why not grab yourself a Blue Smart IP65 Charger and any accessories you may need from them, or locate a dealer in your own country. John Rushworth Credits My thanks to Gerrit Tromp for the inspiration and media for this blog. Gerrit rides a 2013 KTM 350 SX-F Cairoli Edition. The video is by Roan Smith and his business partner Armand Booysen, of Red Bird Media Design. The kind folks at UB-LEISURE allowed Gerrit the use of their premises to shoot the video. Gerrit Tromp on his KTM 350 SX-F Cairoli Edition. Links UB-LEISURE website: http://ubleisure.co.za UB-LEISURE on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ubleisure Red Bird Media Design on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/redbirdmediadesign

John Rushworth • 06 August 2019

New product range: VE.Can SmartSolar MPPTs

Adding to Victron’s comprehensive range of Solar Charge Controllers , we can now announce new models with VE.Can connectivity. These currently include the SmartSolar MPPT 150/70 & 150/100 VE.Can with auto-select voltage for systems of 12, 24, 36 and 48 Volts. These new models are replacements for the BlueSolar MPPT 150/70 & 150/85 CAN-bus generation. The new VE.Can 150/70 and 150/100 models are now in stock and available for delivery. Further models will follow and are detailed later in this blog. Dealers can check availability and stock levels via E-Order. Why VE.Can? With the VE.Can interface up to 25 Charge Controllers can be daisy-chained and connected to a Color Control GX or other GX device . Each controller can be monitored individually, for example on a Color Control GX and on the VRM website . VE.Direct and Bluetooth data communication are also features of these controllers. To learn more about data communication such as VE.Can – see the PDF ‘Data communication with Victron Energy products’, in our Whitepapers section of the main website. Comparison to the previous BlueSolar MPPT CAN-bus generation Improved: each charger is displayed individually on a GX Device and on the VRM Portal; whereas with the previous models all units were operating synchronously and were seen as one; which made it impossible to see individual PV string performance. Improved: supports ESS and control by Intelligent (canbus) batteries, just like today’s VE.Direct models; which was not possible with the previous generation. Note that this will require Venus OS v2.40, which is not yet released yet but is expected in October. Synchronisation: the mechanism to operate synchronously is the same as before: equal device instances enables synchronised charging. Since they are all configured with Device instance 0 out of the box; they’ll automatically start synchronising as soon as you connect them together with the network cable. Note: These new models cannot synchronise with the previous generation. They can of course still be used together in the same system; but will then operate autonomously. Future developments & firmware In addition to these new 150V, 70 & 100A models, there will also be a 150V, 85A plus 250V, 70A & 100A models. They are expected by the end of this year. Furthermore some special and not commonly used features have not yet been released, but will come later as a firmware update. These are the virtual load output, street light, alternate TX/RX pin functions and the PAYG features. Key product features & similarities Key features are listed below, yet these new VE.Can SmartSolar MPPTs are also very similar to the existing range of SmartSolar Chargers with a VE.Direct port; in that the hardware design is based on that reliable and proven range, they can be configured with the VictronConnect app and they support all the exact same charger settings and options. Ultra-fast Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) Advanced Maximum Power Point Detection in case of partial shading condition Outstanding conversion efficiency Flexible charge algorithm Extensive electronic protection Bluetooth Smart built-in Internal temperature sensor and optional Smart Battery Sense VE.Can: the multiple controller solution VE.Direct or VE.Can Remote on-off Programmable relay Optional: SmartSolar pluggable LCD display To read more about the features listed above, see the product page and PDF datasheet. The downloads section in that page includes all the usual certificates, product dimensions, photos, manuals and system schematics too. John Rushworth

Justin Tyers • 23 May 2019

Phoenix Smart Charger 30A/50A

Finally! After quite a few delays it’s here, and in stock: the first batch of our brand new Phoenix Smart Charger series. It’s available for both 12V and 24V battery banks. The complete line-up includes six variations – let’s take a closer look and see what’s new. It has the familiar adaptive Victron charge algorithm – providing optimal care for batteries. Bluetooth Smart – monitor and change settings from your phone, tablet or smart device. IP43 enclosed – protected against water spray. Configurable charge parameters. Suitable for Li-ion & Lead Acid batteries. Can charge three battery banks simultaneously – full output to each bank. Alarm relay & Remote on/off. VE.Direct port for connection to a GX Device . The Phoenix Smart Charger is available for both 12V and 24V installations. There are two 12V models: one has a 30 Amp output – the other 50 Amps. For the 24V models it’s 16 Amps or 25 Amps. Each of these can be ordered with a two- or a three-output configuration. For full details, download the Datasheet on our website. The two-output configuration provides full rated-power to one outlet, and up to 3 Amps to the second outlet – ideal for maintaining a starter battery, for example. The three-output configuration can provide full power to each outlet – allowing you to charge up to three separate banks of batteries simultaneously. The AC inlet cable needs to be ordered separately, there are three types available – for Australia; for New Zealand; and a third for Europe and the UK. VictronConnect: configure and monitor A Bluetooth-enabled smart phone, tablet or other device can be used to monitor, change settings, and to update the charger whenever new software features become available: For a preview of this app download VictronConnect and click on Phoenix Smart Charger in the ‘Demo Library’. There you can check out all the settings available. Intelligent charge algorithm Phoenix Smart chargers have all the Victron features which help ensure long battery life and optimal charging: Adaptive 5-stage charge algorithm: bulk – absorption – recondition – float – storage. The Phoenix Smart Charger features our well-known ‘adaptive’ battery management system which can be preset for different types of batteries. The ‘adaptive’ feature automatically optimises the charge process according to the way the battery is being used. BatterySafe: when selecting a high charge-current for rapid recharging, Phoenix Smart Charger protects your battery from ‘gassing’ (and resultant loss of electrolyte) by automatically limiting the rate of voltage increase once the gassing voltage has been reached. You can see the difference in the two graphs below. The left graph shows a normal sequence, without BatterySafe. The right graph shows the sequence with BatterySafe. Notice the white arrows. The difference is the reduced speed of voltage-rise – once 14.4V has been reached. Storage mode: when batteries are left ‘on charge’ but idle for long periods they can be damaged by overcharging. The positive plates corrode – which accelerates ageing. Also, the electrolyte will gradually boil off into gas leaving the cell dry and no longer able to function. To prevent that, Victron chargers enter ‘Storage mode’ whenever the battery has been idle for 24 hours. In Storage mode the charging voltage is reduced to 13.2V (for a 12V battery) – well below the gassing voltage. This charge voltage, however, will be increased to (usually) 14.4V for one hour per week, in order to prevent sulphation, and stratification (whereby the electrolyte becomes more concentrated at the bottom and more dilute at the top). Paralleling and Smart Battery Sense? Although these features are not available at the time of writing, they will be enabled by a free firmware update, later in 2019. Applications Typical applications for the Phoenix Smart Charger will be in Boat or Camper van installations. Phoenix Smart Charger can also be used as a power source. Set the output voltage with your Bluetooth-enabled device. Justin Tyers

John Rushworth • 09 May 2019

Preview: New Products for Intersolar Europe 2019

Intersolar Europe 2019 is almost upon us and will be held at Neue Messe München from May 15-17, 2019. As ever Victron Energy will be exhibiting. Our stand this year is number B2.480, where many new and updated products will be on display. Four key new products and one new product range are: EasySolar-II 48/3000/35-32 MPPT 250/70 GX MultiPlus-II 48/3000/35-32 230V GX MultiPlus-II 48/5000/70-50 230V Inverter RS 48/6000 230V Smart Solar SmartSolar MPPT VE.Can range These new products will be launched at Intersolar, however in this preview blog we can delve into a little more detail and compare the new models above with previous models where appropriate. EasySolar-II 48/3000/35-32 MPPT 250/70 GX Building on the existing EasySolar (which contains a MultiPlus Inverter/Charger and BlueSolar MPPT Solar Charge controller) this new model has a number of improved features and brings other welcome changes. The EasySolar-II 3000VA GX (when compared to the earlier EasySolar) is based upon the Multiplus-II , giving the whole unit a more compact and modern design, along with improved standby power efficiency, reduced weight and volume. The GX suffix indicates that there is a GX device for control and monitoring built-in. A GX device is usually a standalone device such as a Color Control GX, Venus GX, Octo GX or a CANvu GX – but in this instance it is a new integrated GX device, which is already connected to the internal Multiplus-II and MPPT charge controller. In addition there is a small two line display showing what the unit is doing, and if relevant it can also show a detailed error code – no more counting blinking LEDs! The EasySolar-II 3000VA GX allows connection to CAN-bus battery management systems, the VRM remote data monitoring portal via Ethernet or built-in WiFi , enables ESS functionality, and much more. Another update is the AC and DC rated circuit breaker protection is no longer supplied. This change is based on feedback from our customers who are now able to connect the EasySolar-II GX to their own AC and DC fuses or circuit protection – in other words that which is best suited to a particular application and any regional requirements. The integral MPPT has had the input voltage increased from 150V to 250V, giving greater flexibility when choosing solar panel configurations. In addition, because the MPPT is Victron Smart, there’s all the usual VictronConnect App functionality people have come to expect from Smart enabled products. If paralleling and using three phase with the EasySolar-II 3000VA GX, there can only be one GX device in such a system. Indeed one GX device is enough and therefore it does not make sense to buy three of the EasySolar-II 3000VA GXs and put them in a three phase installation. Instead what you do is buy one and then buy two normal MultiPlus-IIs with the same rating. MultiPlus-II 48/3000/35-32 230V GX This model is the existing MultiPlus-II 3000 , with the addition of built-in GX features. It has all the advantages that you’ve come to expect from GX devices . We’ll keep both products in stock. Like the EasySolar-II 3000VA GX there is a small two line display showing what the unit is doing, and if relevant it can also show a detailed error code – no more counting blinking LEDs! Building a split- or three-phase system, or parallel system, with the MultiPlus-II GX models can be done. But there can only be one GX device in such a system. Indeed one GX device is enough and therefore it does not make sense to buy three of the MultiPlus-II 3000VA GXs and put them in a three phase installation. Instead what you do is buy one and then buy two normal MultiPlus-IIs with the same rating. Another option is of course to use multiple normal MultiPlus-IIs, and then choose a GX device to your liking. Below you can see the plethora of available connection options available on the GX version. Click the image to enlarge it. MultiPlus-II 48/5000/70-50 230V This new MultiPlus-II is simply a larger version of the existing 3000 version. See the product page and choose the datasheet to compare the new MultiPlus-II 48/5000/70-50 to the MultiPlus-II 48/3000/35-32. Inverter RS 48/6000 230V Smart Solar Yet another exciting new product, Victron Smart too. Here are some key features of the RS 6000 : Built-in solar charge controller with 450V max PV input. Previously the highest max PV voltage of Victron Energy products was 250V. PV specification limits are 450V, 18A in, 4000Wp Victron’s first all in one inverter+solar charge controller HF inverter – a first for Victron Energy Excellent voltage stability Handy 4 x 20 character display display The image below shows the bottom cover removed, to reveal various connections which include 1 x VE.Direct and 2 x VE.Can connections. Click the image to enlarge it. Note: The Inverter RS 6000 cannot be configured for parallel operation nor three phase at present. SmartSolar MPPT VE.Can Last in the list of new products presented today is the SmartSolar MPPT VE.Can series. There will be a series of 150V models available, as well as 250V. More detailed news will be shared in a future blog post. More information, pricing and availability More technical information will be made available in the coming days and weeks: product pages, datasheets, and other documentation is being finished and made available on our website. For availability and pricing, check the pricelist on our website. Or, if you are a direct customer, use E-Order. Conclusion As is often the case Intersolar serves as a launchpad for many new Victron Energy products. That doesn’t mean other new products aren’t released throughout the year – it’s simply that Intersolar is one of the best places to see, learn and try the latest Victron products. Oh! – And of course there’s Victron’s infamous Intersolar Stand Party to attend… John Rushworth Links Intersolar Europe Website – https://www.intersolar.de/en/home.html Intersolar Europe Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/Intersolar

Justin Tyers • 05 March 2019

Announcing the new CANvu GX …information you can touch!

It’s so convenient to be able access all your system information via touch screen – and because the CANvu GX is a sealed-unit, you can install it in some challenging environments! The IP67 rating of the CANvu GX means that it is completely protected against dust ingress, and can even withstand half an hour’s immersion in water 1 metre deep! The CANvu GX is the latest addition to the Venus family – the information gateway which allows you to set-up, monitor and manage all the component parts of your private energy installation. In exactly the same way as you use the CCGX ; Venus GX ; and Octo GX – the CANvu GX gathers data from your Inverter/Charger , Battery Monitor , Solar Charge Controller , and batteries to allow optimal communication between components, maximising battery-charging and solar harvest. And, of course, it allows you to interrogate the status of each device. But amongst the whole family, it is the CANvu GX which is ideal when the information is required to be displayed outdoors, or in difficult environments. The arrival of the CANvu GX will be welcomed particularly by those users who work in the open. It is entirely at home on board vessels at sea, or on building sites – in applications such as the control panel of Hybrid Generators. It is also ideal in factories where industrial processes are wet, or dusty. The unit comes with a dash/fascia mounting kit: Please note that in order to operate the CANvu GX you will need an IO Extender and wiring kit , and that this must be ordered separately: The full colour screen of the CANvu GX will be familiar both in appearance and size to anyone who has seen or used the CCGX. The system offers 3 VE.Direct ports and one USB port; a second, separate CAN-bus port; and it can receive digital inputs. It doesn’t have a buzzer. WiFi is not built-in, but a USB WiFi dongle can be attached. A comparison of features between all members of the GX family can be found here . Justin Tyers

John Rushworth • 26 February 2019

Lithium SuperPack batteries – an all in one solution

These new Lithium-Ion, LiFePO4 chemistry batteries are often an ideal replacement for many 12V and 24V marine, automotive, caravan, motorhome, work vans and similar battery applications. It might even be for an overland motorcycle if using the smallest 20Ah version; to recharge a camera, phone or laptop for instance. Other examples – take a typical small boat or van which may have a 110Ah to 220Ah lead-acid leisure battery for light continuous loads such as lighting, laptops, phones, instruments, powering a diesel heater, a fridge etc. And for shorter term loads maybe add a small inverter to charge power tools, run a small microwave or travel kettle for example. Using one SuperPack battery it matches well with the Phoenix Inverter VE.Direct 250VA – 1200VA range. Maybe you’ll add in around 100 to 200Wp of solar panels too using a small MPPT . Regardless of the use, whichever SuperPack you choose it’ll be lighter than lead, can be smaller if you wish or give you more Wh in the same space – plus give you around 5 times the cycle life. The main difference to Victron’s other lithium offerings are the SuperPacks keep everything in one package, by having an integrated BMS and safety switch built-in. No additional components are needed as the internal switch will disconnect the battery in case of over discharge, over charge or high temperature. Simple, compact and safe. If you are considering a new battery don’t immediately discount Lithium as being too costly. Whilst it is true that the capital cost of Li-ion is greater than that of quality AGM or Gel batteries – it is also true that the cost of ownership can be less than lead acid types. Much depends on your application, but rest assured – life with Li-ion is far less hassle than lead. Over the last 8 years on my sailing yacht I’ve run AGM lead leisure batteries and Lithium-Ion propulsion batteries. Initially it was AGM for propulsion before discovering the effectiveness of Lithium. That journey taught me a lot about loads, capacity, cost and battery life – it’s one of the reasons why I think we’ve reached a tipping point and why these new SuperPack batteries may just be the ticket for your next project or battery replacement. If in the first instance you are unfamiliar with AGM vs Lithium, then here’s a blog that explains that. When to use a SuperPack? Every battery size and type has it’s own particular use. For instance you may use the Lithium battery 12,8V & 25,6V Smart in quite different applications to the new SuperPack range. So, where to use the SuperPacks? When it comes to replacing lead acid type batteries such as AGM and Gel in many applications, the SuperPack range can be considered the next generation after lead – making it far easier to replace lead with lithium. The only caveats being replacement is down to certain parameters being met, namely – Capacity (Ah), Voltages (12.8V & 25.6V), Discharge and Charge currents (C rates). Do in that case be sure that your chosen replacement fits your criteria by checking the datasheet and be aware the SuperPacks can be connected in parallel, but not in series. Hence in that case you would consider the other Victron lithium products named above. The Lithium SuperPack Victron Energy’s recently introduced Lithium SuperPack range comes in the following capacities and voltages: 12.8V & 25.6V Lithium SuperPack batteries: 12.8V – 20Ah 12.8V – 60Ah 12.8V – 100Ah 12.8V – 200Ah 25.6V – 50Ah These SuperPacks will give you 2,500 cycles to 80% depth of discharge at 25°C, much more than lead. Comparison: SuperPack 60Ah LiFePO4 vs 90Ah AGM Let’s compare the 60Ah Li-ion to say a typical 90Ah AGM battery discharged to the commonly accepted economic cycle life of 50% discharge for lead. That would give us 600 cycles at that DOD for the AGM compared to 2,500 at the even deeper discharge of 80% for the LiFePO4. Already you can see you may need to replace your lead-acid type battery 2 to 4 times as often as the Lithium. Of course loads, operating conditions and calendar life have to be factored in too. Regardless you get the idea – Lithium does more and lasts longer. The benefits of Lithium don’t stop there though. Whilst LiFePO4 chemistry is considered the safest of them all, it’s worth considering other factors too to decide whether the reduced weight and volume of say NMC is of more importance for your application than LiFePO4 for example. Victron Energy do both types. 60Ah SuperPack 90Ah AGM Weight 9.5kg 27kg Size (mm) 229 x 138 x 213 350 x 167 x 183 Useable energy @ 25°C 614Wh 540Wh Cycle life 2,500 cycles 600 cycles Cost x 2.5 (approx) x 1 Notes for the table above: Useable energy and cycle life are based on 80% depth of discharge for Li-ion and 50% for AGM, these being considered the most economic use of those battery types. Higher loads with lead will further reduce available Wh ( Peukert’s Law ) when compared to Li-ion. Capacity is also reduced for both types by temperatures below their 25°C temperature rating ( see their respective datasheets ) Make what you will of the above and whilst you are pondering the pros and cons don’t forget to take these additional factors into account for the comparison above. Shipping: If you are replacing your lead from 2 to 4 times as often as Li-on and the fact that the lead weighs around 3 to 4 times as much (depends on Li-ion chemistry used) – then do consider the extra shipping costs. Voltage stability: The voltage profile is far flatter for Li-ion compared to lead. Voltage sag: Subject to the load, voltage sag with lead is significant compared to Li-ion. Li-ion has much faster charge times and if charging from a generator it saves on generator runtime. Other factors to consider Is the above enough to convince you of why Lithium might be a better alternative than AGM or indeed Gel? Personally I’m sold on Lithium, but if you are not here’s a few things further to consider: A lead-acid battery will fail prematurely due to sulfation if it operates in deficit mode for long periods of time (i.e. if the battery is rarely, or never at all, fully charged). It will also fail early if left partially charged or worse, fully discharged. By comparison a Lithium-Ion battery does not need to be fully charged. This is a major advantage of Li-ion compared to lead-acid which needs to be fully charged often to prevent sulfation. Efficiency. In several applications (especially off-grid solar), energy efficiency can be of crucial importance. The round-trip energy efficiency (discharge from 100% to 0% and back to 100% charged) of the average lead-acid battery is 80%. The round-trip energy efficiency of a Li-ion battery is 92%. The charge process of lead-acid batteries becomes particularly inefficient when the 80% state of charge has been reached, resulting in efficiencies of 50% or even less in solar systems where several days of reserve energy are required (battery operating in 70% to 100% charged state). In contrast, a Li-ion battery will still achieve 90% efficiency even under shallow discharge conditions. Make the switch? Are you ready to make the switch from Lead to LiFe? If you’ve considered all the above I suspect you might be. And if you need more useable Ah why not run the sums on say a 100Ah Lithium SuperPack vs 220Ah AGM using the process I have above. Or indeed a 200Ah Li-ion SuperPack vs your choice of lead. Don’t forget too that Lithium has little or no Peukert effect when compared to Lead types. This is especially important when considering loads with lead-acid higher than 0.05C (Battery Ah divided by 20 or Ah multiplied by 0.05). In other words for a 100Ah AGM with a Peukert of 1.24 and discharging at 0.25C (25 Amps in this case – which is 5 times the 20 hour rate) there will be significant reduction in capacity – as there will be at colder temperatures too. Li-ion has a Peukert of 1.05 when compared to lead’s 1.24 factor. So – if you were discharging that 100Ah lead at 5 Amps (the 20 hour discharge rate at a temperature of 25 degrees centigrade) then the full capacity of 100Ah is still availaable and it’s not shrunk due to Peukert. But now if it were 0.25C, it’ll be around 80% of that original 100Ah capacity – or less, subject to load type and duration. The bottom line is you no longer have the Ah you purchased, whereas with Lithium there is little to no effect, helped by a lower Peukert and good voltage stability. That is especially important with constant inverter loads – a place where lithium shines. If you want to learn more about Peukert and run a spreadsheet to see such effects, then I have found this link most helpful. Finally and one I’m always grateful of is vastly reduced charge times, no more waiting for hours of lead absorption charging to get from 80% to 100% SOC. Conversely Li-ion flies up to around 98% SOC in bulk with those last few percent in absorption to fully balance the cells – and unlike lead you don’t always have to fully charge to 100% as often. Note that your 12V charging system needs to accommodate 14.2V – 14.4V ‘absorption’ and ‘13.5V’ float. If charging from an alternator also note the maximum continuous charge currents for the 12.8V range, by checking the datasheet. Downsides Not wanting to sound too evangelical, we also need to consider the few downsides of Li-ion. Higher upfront cost and to some extent higher capital risk. Charging is restricted to the +5°C to +45° range, subject to an internal means of blocking the charge source when the temperature is below +5°C. Note this is currently automatically possible with Victron MPPTs when used in conjunction with the Smart Battery Sense for instance. Other products are being worked on to achieve this too and documentation to that effect will be updated in due course. The SuperPack (unlike other Victron Lithiums) is not designed for series connections. The peak and maximum continuous discharge current of the SuperPack range is not as much as some of our Lithium batteries as its related to the BMS and the disconnect being internal to the battery – so do check the datasheet to make sure the current peak and discharge ratings suit your needs – or choose from the Lithium battery 12.8V & 25.6V Smart range, or build a parallel SuperPack bank. Conclusion Whatever your decision when purchasing new batteries, maybe it is time to give the Lithium SuperPack batteries a chance. There’s LiFe after Lead you know – but as I’ve shown that all depends on what you want to achieve. Is it less weight, less volume, maybe it’s capacity or voltage or any of the multitude of factors that go into choosing a battery system. Whatever you choose Victron have plenty of choice – with a large range of battery types and sizes: https://www.victronenergy.com/batteries John Rushworth

Justin Tyers • 12 February 2019

Phoenix Inverter Smart – 1600VA and 2000VA out now.

We’ve just added two Bluetooth enabled Inverters to our range. The new-build models are rated at 1600VA and 2000VA and we have models for 12V, 24V and 48V systems. Dynamic cut-off/intelligent restart We’ve added 48V models to the range Bluetooth communication – allows easy set-up and monitoring on your phone, laptop or smart device Slimline design allows for discreet wall-mounting Eco mode Bluetooth …and VE.Direct Bluetooth has been built in to the Phoenix Inverter Smart – allowing your power consumption to be monitored, or the settings changed, straight from your phone, tablet or laptop via our VictronConnect app – which is free to use. Phoenix Inverter Smart also has a VE.Direct communication port allowing wired connection to a tablet or laptop via an optional VE.Direct to USB cable . The unit can then be set-up and programmed using VE Configure software. Built in Bluetooth allows you to view live data on your mobile phone, laptop or smart device via our VictronConnect app – which is free to use. Dynamic Cut-off Your battery is protected by a user-defined low voltage alarm. The alarm will be followed by an automatic cut-off – the value of which is Dynamic: For example, if the inverter is providing a lot of power at the time a low-voltage condition is detected, the unit will perform its disconnect at a lower battery-voltage than if it were providing only a modest amount of power. When only a modest amount of power is being drawn, cut-off will take place immediately a low-voltage condition exists. See the Manual for full details. Intelligent re-start A cut-off will be followed by three intelligent restart attempts. If the cut-off was triggered by a sudden but temporary drop in voltage, the load will be reconnected. A thirty-second delay ensures that the increase in voltage which has been detected is enduring. ECO mode In ECO mode some Phoenix Inverter Smart units consume just 0.6 watts – so they can be left in ‘standby’ for extended periods without worrying about the battery running down between jobs. ECO mode is intelligent, too: When the power being provided by the device falls below a certain value – it will automatically enter standby mode. As soon as it detects a load above a preset ‘snooze’ limit, the unit will remain on, to power this new demand. LED diagnostics Similarly to its predecessors, the Phoenix Inverter Smart is equipped with ‘traffic-light’ LED’s – the behaviour of which relate to the Inverter’s current ‘status’ – providing you with information concerning which mode the unit is in, whether any alarm conditions exist, or if an automatic trip has taken place. In depth information can be found in the manual . Bluetooth connection to your smart device provides deeper analysis. The Phoenix Inverter Smart – which weighs around 12kg – can be tidily installed in an out-of-the-way location, thanks to its slim profile, and sturdy mounting plate. But if it’s tucked away – what about reaching it …to turn it on and off? No problem – a remote on/off switch is available. Summary True Sine Wave power output can be used for sensitive electronics such as computers; and it’s Peak Power capability – of around twice its ‘continuous’ rating – will supply the inrush current typically drawn by workshop tools such as drills, jig-saws, sanders and LED lamps. It can continuously power all the comforts of home – such as Microwave cookers, vacuum cleaners – even pressure washers. Phoenix Inverter Smart continues to use ultra-reliable ‘full bridge’ configuration and toroidal transformer topology – all housed in a stainless steel case – to provide years of worry-free service. Phoenix Inverter Smart is a protected against short-circuit, and overheating. Inverters for every requirement We have Inverters and Inverter/Chargers for every possible requirement – from compact 175W models to 144kW – configurable for 3-Phase; Multi source AC; and even for Assisting Grid-Power. Follow the links to find the right Inverter for you. Justin Tyers

Justin Tyers • 05 February 2019

New Carry Case for Blue Smart IP65 Chargers and accessories

This is a really useful accessory for the IP65 charger. Professional and tidy, in one quick grab you’re ready to go. The carry case for the IP65 charger is one of those indispensable accessories. It protects your charger from the knocks and bangs of workshop life. It allows tidy storage, too – cables never get tangled …or lost; everything is in one place; and if you use an IP65 charger in your work – it gives a professional appearance. This is what the carry case looks like when loaded. (Just to be clear when you order the case, it doesn’t come with the charger or accessories!) The padded compartment will safely carry the charger, input and output cables; plus the cables for both battery-connection options – the battery clamps (crocodile clips) and the M8 eyelet connectors. When it is snapped shut the case has the following dimensions: Height 295mm (11 ½”) / Width 350mm (14″) / Depth 105mm (4″). Let’s just remind ourselves of the main features of the Blue Smart IP65 Charger : it’s available in both 120V and 230V models; and with outputs of both 12VDC and 24VDC. The 12V chargers are available with the following charge currents: 4/5/7/10/15 Amps. The 24V chargers are available with a 5, or 8 Amp charge capability. Bluetooth is onboard – allowing you to set-up and monitor the charger straight from your phone, tablet or smart device. Home users, car, van and boat hobbyists, mechanics, and mobile electrical installers will appreciate the convenience of the IP65 Charger – carry case. It will protect your charger from damage throughout its long five-year warranty …and beyond. Justin Tyers

John Rushworth • 29 January 2019

BatteryProtect gets Smart

BatteryProtect is one of those smaller but much sought after products, one that is shipped in the many thousands. The latest version now has Victron ‘Smart’ tech. No more fiddling with wires to program, as the new Smart BatteryProtect uses VictronConnect over Bluetooth to simplify and reduce setup time. Smart BatteryProtect is used to disconnect a battery from non-essential loads before it is completely discharged (which would damage the battery) or before it has insufficient power left to crank an engine for example. Product Range Voltage and current ratings to suit the majority of applications. 12-24V 65A 12-24V 100A 12-24V 220A 48V 100A Key features Easy programming/setup using VictronConnect. Often used in lithium systems due to low standby current in comparison to a relay. Lithium system remotely controllable disconnect switch. Ideal for vehicles, solar installations, boats and motorhomes. Solid state switching for ignition proof safety and longevity. Lower energy consumption than closing a relay. Settings options using VictronConnect Why not try the demo mode in the free VictronConnect app which demonstrates the settings below: Use the Load output toggle switch as a battery isolator. Auto voltage detect or choose from 12V or 24V for the 12-24V models. Choose from a range of presets or user defined vales for under voltage shut down and restart voltages. Choose from 3 modes for load disconnect and alarm settings: Buzzer/LED, Relay or Li-ion modes. Choose lead acid or Li-ion operation Choose from Relay or Buzzer/LED for Alarm Output. Share and/or Save Settings to File. Conclusion An affordable, cost-effective, multi-function product. Fit to new systems or upgrade your old ones. Manuals and more at: https://www.victronenergy.com/battery_protect/smart-battery-protect John Rushworth

Justin Tyers • 13 December 2018

Calendar 2019 – off the beaten track

You will always have something bright and cheerful to look at, as you navigate your way through 2019, if you order yourself a copy of the stunningly colourful Victron Calendar – out now! This year the theme is enjoying the great outdoors. Fresh air is good for the body and soul – so this year why not let our Calendar inspire you to spend more time in the wonderful wide world …with all the convenience of home? Cycling, for example, has never been so popular. It has enjoyed a great surge of interest in recent years with hi-tech frames and even battery-powered assistance. It allows you to explore remoter tracks, further from home, amongst the wildlife – without causing pollution or noise! So if your last bike was a Penny-farthing and you gave it up because it was too challenging to pedal uphill – take another look at what today’s sport has to offer the corinthian cyclist – pull on some lycra, and take to the hills. For the more thoughtful, the outdoors is a great place to relax and unwind with a cup of tea; ponder life’s mysteries, be creative, and then return home after a day-to-remember ready to put some new plan into action! Retreat to the silence of the hills. It’s great to pull-off life’s highway for a few days. It provides you with a new perspective. These days, whilst enjoying remote tranquility it’s not necessary to go back to the middle-ages – you can have the best of both worlds: living like a recluse …yet having all the comforts of home! Life is an adventure to be discovered – slowly. Select a few things which are important to you, and which you can’t live without …then take to the road in a camper van, waking up to some of the world’s most jaw-dropping views – and enjoy them over a cup of freshly-ground coffee. The images you see here are just some of the fantastic photography on offer in our 2019 Calendar which you can order using your account – or use this link to set up an e-order account . You can use your account to purchase exciting off-grid units and accessories. A big thank you to Marianka Pranger for all her hard work in putting the 2019 calendar together. It only remains to wish you a very happy Christmas – if you keep that festival; or to wish you the very warmest season’s greetings if you don’t – but in all cases to wish a very happy, healthy and prosperous 2019! Thank you for being part of the Victron family. Justin Tyers

John Rushworth • 27 November 2018

New product: Octo GX – a member of the GX Product Family

Recently announced at METS the Octo GX is a Venus-device and a member of the GX Product Family, which consists of the Color Control GX, Venus GX, Octo GX and the CANvu GX. The new Octo GX is the best fit for installations that have many MPPT Solar Charge Controllers, as it has 10 VE.Direct ports. The GX Product Family At a glance details can be seen in the image below. For further information see the GX Product Family page. Octo GX The Octo GX is DIN-rail mountable, so it’s compatible with existing industry standard control boards. It has many interfaces, allowing control and monitoring of over a dozen Victron components simultaneously. Also and very handy for ESS systems – it has a built-in RS485 port. Octo GX applications include large integrated commercial or industrial electrical systems where you may have a control room with many VE.Direct MPPT’, Multiplus Inverter/Chargers and CANBus devices. Further information can be found on the Octo GX product page. Conclusion There’s a Venus-device to suit your needs – we trust the new Octo GX adds to and expands the growing GX Product Family range. The first stock of the Octo GX is expected in early January. John Rushworth

John Rushworth • 21 November 2018

METS 2018: Marine success

Last week was the annual METS (Marine Equipment Trade Show). As ever Victron Energy had a stand and their products were featured on many other stands too. Here’s a reflection on the 2018 show. There were a range of new Victron products as detailed in the pre-METS blog . From a personal perspective though it’s always interesting to see which products aroused most interest. This year Victron Energy’s ‘Glass Bridge’ integration came out ahead. This integration ensures a vessel’s MFD (Multi-Functional Display) can display Venus-device information, at the ‘Glass Bridge’ helm and other screens, with a simple plug and play UTP cable connection. MFDs by Raymarine, Garmin, B&G, Simrad, Lowrance are examples of some of the OEMs that can integrate Venus-device information. Venus-devices are members of the GX Product Family . Glass Bridge integration for Garmin & Navico brands is expected end of Q1; and for Raymarine it’s expected Q2 2019. A full list of compatible chart plotters will be published in early 2019. This silent video demonstrates the ease of integration. No need for sound commentary, as it’s that easy to integrate! Key features of Victron Energy’s Glass Bridge integration Monitor shore power and generator status. Monitor battery status. Monitor chargers, inverters, inverter/chargers. Monitor AC and DC loads. Control shore current limit. Control the inverter/charger. Open the Victron Remote Console panel; allowing access to further parameters. Other show feedback Smart BatteryProtect Key feedback centered not just around Glass Bridge integration. In fact it was at the other extreme – being one of the most basic products of all – one that is shipped in the many thousands and likely even more now the new version has Victron ‘Smart’ tech. No fiddling with wires to program, just use VictronConnect over Bluetooth to program the new Smart BatteryProtect. Phoenix Smart IP43 battery charger This was particularly well received for the marine market, being available with an IP43 rating in 12 & 24V versions – 12/30, 12/50, 24/16, 24/25. Adaptive 5-stage charge algorithm Potential free alarm contacts Remote on-off (also for Li-ion BMS) Configure and monitor with your Smartphone Ideal for use with Smart Battery Sense accessory Works with VictronConnect app More Smart tech Users and particularly installers were also delighted to hear that soon they will be able to use VictronConnect to configure their Multis and Quattros too. New Product recap In addition to the key products above here’s other new products that were on show. 24V Smart Lithium battery. Lynx Ion BMS + HE battery. Updated VE.Direct Inverter range. Previously 250VA, 375VA, 500VA, 800VA, 1200VA and now 1600VA and 2000VA models, with Smart tech of course using VictronConnect. CANvu 500 , now with IO Extender. Octo GX (See this link for the differences between the Octo GX, Color Control GX and Venus GX). VE.Bus Smart Dongle. GX GSM. Inline Blue Power Charger IP65 state of charge battery indicator. Photos Too many photos to choose from, so here’s a sample. Socialising Conclusion It’s great to see the continuing progress of Victron products, especially more and more Smart enabled products. All in all the show was a Glass Bridge and maritime product success – and going by the photos a fun time was had too, by exhibitor and visitor alike. Keep your eye on the Victron blog for more in-depth info on new products and on the Victron Pricelist for price and availability – or just check with your Victron dealer. John Rushworth

Justin Tyers • 15 November 2018

IP65 Charger – now with even more protection

The IP65 charger is already protected from the environment – dust, and even sprayed water – but now there is an accessory which will protect it from accidental damage, too. The rubber bumper snaps into place around the charger, cradling it, and protecting it from the scratches, bangs and knocks it receives in normal use around the workshop. The bumper – which features a carrying/stowage handle – offers protection to the vulnerable corners and edges of the charger. If on the other hand you always use your smart charger in the same location – you might prefer the wall mount accessory. Now you can permanently install your smart charger, creating a dedicated battery charge-station. Both of these accessories are available right now. Justin Tyers

John Rushworth • 02 November 2018

METS 2018 Preview: Glass Bridge & Smart everywhere

METSTRADE show is the world’s largest and most visited B2B leisure marine equipment show, yet where Victron are concerned it’s also of interest to our end users too – as it is a launchpad and bellwether for new products. This year between Nov 13th – Nov 15th Victron Energy will be launching a range of products at the show, a key one being ‘glass bridge’ integration of Venus connected devices for yachts. As Matthijs Vader, MD of Victron Energy says: “I’m really excited about this product launch as it has been my wish for many years to show our equipment on the chartplotters of Raymarine, Garmin, B&G, Simrad, Lowrance and similar MFD suppliers. It’s a winner, especially as it is so simple to implement.” Bridging the gap If you are already familiar with the Venus OS which runs on Victron’s Color Control GX, Venus GX and the new Octo GX, then you will be aware of the level and type of information that can be accessed. Until now it hasn’t been easily displayed on a glass bridge – that has now changed. If you don’t already know, a ‘Glass Bridge’ is a MFD (Multi-Functional Display) that integrates a boat’s systems and navigation status into a large screen or screens at the helm of the vessel, so doing away with multiple gauges, brackets and wiring complications. An example of Victron’s integration of their Venus data into a MFD is shown in the image below. It is a clean and crisp look, plus it is so easy to implement. Simply connect the MFD and the Venus-device with a network cable, and that’s it. A Victron icon shows up on the MFD, click it to open the monitoring page. 3 steps and the data is integrated and available – as easy as 1-2-3! Glass Bridge – Victron’s Venus MFD integration Features: Simple & fast to setup. Crisp & clean interface. Will work with most MFDs: Garmin, Raymarine, Simrad, B&G, Lowrance. Straightforward to support. Display: Monitor shore power and generator status. Monitor battery status (state of charge, voltage, current and power). Monitor the power conversion equipment: chargers, inverters, inverter/chargers. Monitor AC loads, and DC loads. Control shore power input current limit. Control the inverter/charger: switch it off, on, or set it to charger-only. Optionally open the Victron Remote Console panel; allowing access to further parameters. Power equipment compatibility: All Victron inverter/chargers: From a 500VA single phase device up to a large 180kVA three phase-system, including Multis, Quattros, 230VAC and 120VAC models. Battery Monitors: BMV-700, BMV-702, BMV-712 and newer, Lynx Shunt VE.Can, Lynx Ion BMS. Requirements: Battery system. Victron inverter/charger. Victron Battery monitor. Network cable connection between MFD and a Venus-device such as a Color Control GX, Venus GX or an Octo GX. UTP network cable. Other products at METS GX GSM An accessory for Venus-devices . The GX GSM is a cellular modem; providing mobile internet for the system and connection to the Victron Remote Management (VRM) web portal. It requires a full sized SIM card; and connects to the Venus-device with a (supplied) 1m USB cable. VE.Bus Smart Dongle The VE.Bus Smart Dongle is a Bluetooth device which allows you to connect your smart phone (or other Bluetooth device) to a Victron Product which has a VE.Bus communications port – such as all of the Multi range, all the Quattro range, Phoenix Inverters (1200/5000VA), Easy Solar and the ECOmulti. This product is a great improvement in ease of configuration for installers. By using the free VictronConnect app you can monitor live data, and change settings smartly. Phoenix Smart IP43 battery charger Available in 12 & 24V models – 12/30, 12/50, 24/16, 24/25. Adaptive 5-stage charge algorithm Potential free alarm contacts Remote on-off (also for Li-ion BMS) Configure and monitor with your Smartphone Ideal for use with Smart Battery Sense accessory Works with VictronConnect app And so the list of new products continues, including more Smart tech: Octo GX (See this link for the differences between the Octo GX, Color Control GX and Venus GX). 24V Smart Lithium battery Lynx Ion BMS + HE battery. Smart Battery Protect (A Smart enabled version of the pre-existing Battery Protect). Updated VE.Direct Inverter range. Previously 250VA, 375VA, 500VA, 800VA, 1200VA and now 1600VA and 2000VA models, with Smart tech of course using VictronConnect. CANvu 500 , now with IO Extender. Accessories Not only is there Smart tech everywhere but we also continue to do simple hardware devices, such as the new inline Blue Power Charger IP65 state of charge battery indicator for example. Why not take a look at the range of other accessories for Victron products – maybe there’s something you’ve missed. Conclusion As ever there are too many new products (a good thing!) to go into in depth in this short preview blog for METS. However we hope this blog gives our end users an insight into what to expect in the coming months. In the meantime if you are in the B2B category we look forward to welcoming you to METS 2018 in Amsterdam, between Nov 13th – Nov 15th. Victron Energy will be at Stand number 01.541. For show registration follow this link . Note: • Online registration for METS is free of charge up to and including 5 November. • As of 6 November an online registration fee of € 70.00 per person is applicable. • Onsite registration during the show period (13-15 November 2018) is € 200.00 per person. • Invitations extended by exhibitors such as Victron Energy enable free registration at all times. And for our end users, keep an eye on this blog for pending individual and in depth reviews on the METS featured products . John Rushworth

John Rushworth • 18 September 2018

Big, Bad & American: New 120V 10kVA Quattro

The newest 120V model (48/10000/140-100/100 120V) Quattro for 48V battery systems gives 10kVA continuous output inverter power at 25°C, with 140A of battery charging power and two 120V AC inputs, having a maximum feed through current of 100A each. A serious piece of kit designed for the American market. Not familiar with the Quattro? A Quattro is similar to a MultiPlus, which also has a combined inverter and charger. Additionally though the Quattro can accept two AC inputs (instead of one) and automatically connect to the active source – generator or shore power for example. Its many features include a true sine wave inverter, adaptive charging, hybrid PowerAssist technology plus multiple system integration features such as three or split phase operation and stacking (parallel) operation. Remote monitoring and control is also an option. Other models in the 120V range, besides the latest 48/10000/140-100/100 are: 48/5000/70-100/100 120V 24/5000/120-100/100 120V 12/5000/220-100/100 120V 48/3000/35-50/50 120V Check out our newly designed Quattro page to learn more, which includes a range of related products such as the Venus GX for monitoring and control, AC Current sensor, Wireless AC sensor, an Energy Meter and more. John Rushworth

John Rushworth • 14 June 2018

Intersolar Europe 2018 – new products

Next Wednesday, Thursday and Friday it’s Intersolar Europe 2018. As ever Victron Energy are exhibiting and besides their comprehensive product range there will also be the launch of a number of new products. Hopefully you can make it along to booth B2.480 to discover more. This world leading exhibition for the solar industry and its partners is at the Messe München exhibition centre in Munich, Germany from June 20-22, 2018. Since being founded 27 years ago, Intersolar has become the most important industry platform for manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, service providers and partners of the solar industry. Further information is available at the Intersolar website: https://www.intersolar.de/en/home.html New Victron Energy products at Intersolar MultiPlus-II : our new 3kVA inverter/charger . GX GSM : a GSM modem accessory for the Color Control GX and the Venus GX . Smart Battery Sense : the wireless battery voltage and temperature sensor for our MPPT Solar Charge Controllers. For an explanation and video about Smart Battery Sense see this blog . Range addition: a new member has been added to the current 500 & 800VA MultiPlus family – the 1200VA MultiPlus . More information on the MultiPlus 500VA – 1200VA product page . There’s more And then there’s yet another new product, but we’ll leave that announcement for the exhibition… Enjoy Intersolar Europe 2018. John Rushworth

John Rushworth • 20 April 2018

MultiPlus & Quattro Inverter/Chargers: Improved Current Limits

Good news – a number of the MultiPlus, MultiGrid and Quattro Inverter/Chargers now have lower minimum input current limits for PowerAssist, particular the 120V American market models along with some of the 230V models. A quick recap on PowerAssist PowerAssist is the ability of Victron inverter/chargers to supply more power than is actually available from an AC supply – be that shore power for a boat in a marina, power hook-up for a motorhome, caravan, trailer tent or indeed any home, even a holiday cabin with only solar, batteries and an AC generator electricity supply. The power available from such AC supplies is the voltage times the current rating of the supply. For example a UK marina bollard is 230V and usually rated at 16A. That gives us 3.68kW of available power – but what if you want to keep that 2kW fan heater running and boil a 2.5kW kettle at the same time, requiring 4.5kW combined? If you tried to do that without PowerAssist you would trip the supply, but with PowerAssist your boat batteries supply DC power to the inverter side and an instantaneous fast transfer switch adds this DC to AC converted power to the marina AC shore power. Now you have this combined AC power total to run that heater and kettle, for the short time it takes to boil the kettle. Once boiled the kettle switches off, the inverter stops inverting and goes back to doing nothing – and the shore supply continues to run your AC fan heater as before. With just the fan heater running the available remaining AC power is 1.18kW (3.68kW shore supply – 2.0kW fan heater) which can be used for DC charging of your batteries and/or any small AC consumers up to that remaining 1.18kW of available shore power. Anything over that and PowerAssist can kick back in again as you choose, up to the specifications of the inverter side. If you don’t want to use any PowerAssist from your batteries, switch to charger only and now the AC shore supply will still be on and the inverter will be off, leaving that 3.68kW AC shore supply available for DC charging and AC power for any small AC consumers, such as laptops, TVs, a toaster etc. If you then set the current to zero the charger will be off, the AC supply will pass through and the inverter can’t kick in – handy if away from the boat and shore power fails, as then your batteries can’t be drained by the inverter whilst away. There’s even more sophistication and control if using a Color Control GX or Venus GX, but that is outside the scope of this blog. Why these lower minimum current limits matter Lower minimum input current limits means that PowerAssist is available from a lower current set-point than was previously available. Here’s an example: Previously the 120V Quattro 12/5000/120-2×100 model had a current limit of 19.1A, but now due to a new firmware release this has been reduced to 13.0A. The maximum current supply that a standard USA outlet gives is 15A, so there was no PowerAssist as the minimum set-point was 19.1A. In other words now you can use the PowerAssist feature from a 13.0A set-point with that model Quattro – compared to not being able to use it at all previously! Firmware upgrade required To achieve these improvements you will need a firmware version equal to or greater than #423 – available via Victron Professional: https://professional.victronenergy.com/downloads/firmware Warning As the required new firmware wipes all previous settings (back to defaults) during an update, this process is for those with expert Victron knowledge – not for end users. If in any doubt consult your Victron Energy dealer. Firmware update instructions: Updating VE.Bus firmware, using VEFlash Minimum shore current limits for different models The minimum shore current limits are listed in a spreadsheet, available via Victron Professional. If you are not already registered for Victron Professional please do so at: https://professional.victronenergy.com Then locate the VE.Bus (Multis, Inverters and Quattros) folder and the Excel spreadsheet at: https://professional.victronenergy.com/downloads/firmware Conclusion These MultiPlus, MultiGrid & Quattro Inverter/Chargers with their improved minimum current limits will clearly be of value to many, particularly those with an American 120V/15A supply at their camping ground or dock. On that note, we’d like to give a shout out to Victron aficionados Chris Dunphy & Cherie Ve Ard – in prompting/reminding us to introduce these changes for the American market. Here’s their take on boosting electrons , which even though it is dated now shows just how far Victron have been ahead of the curve over the years. You can learn more about their tech and fascinating adventures (be they by land or sea) at: http://www.technomadia.com John Rushworth

John Rushworth • 22 March 2018

Voltage & Temperature Sense for Solar Chargers

Our range of solar chargers fitted with a VE.Direct port were lacking battery voltage and temperature charge compensation. Not now ! Also, today we announce the launch of Victron Energy’s Smart Battery Sense – a product to complement the new feature. New, simple, smart …and wireless. Why do we need voltage and temperature sensing? Improves solar yield Maximises battery capacity Increases battery life AGM & Gel (lead acid) batteries use charging algorithms based on a standardised temperature of 25°C. However – when they’re cold these batteries need a higher charge-voltage …and a lower charge-voltage when they’re hot. So, optimally, we should modify the charge-voltage by, typically, -16.2mV/°C. Also there can be a difference between the voltage measured at an MPPT solar charger’s terminals, and that measured at the battery terminals. For optimum charging that discrepancy needs to be taken into account, too. The Victron Toolkit app demonstrates how this voltage drop is brought about as a consequence of cable length and gauge; together with voltage and current variations. Good news though: Our MPPT Solar Chargers and accessories can figure all this out – so you don’t have to! Voltage and Temperature data – transmitted wirelessly to your MPPT The Smart Battery Sense is a wireless battery voltage and temperature sensor for Victron MPPT Solar Chargers. Perfect partners. Simple installation – attach the unit to any battery by its self-adhesive tape. Protected by an inline fuse. Voltage and temperature data is transmitted wirelessly to the Solar Charger. Monitor & configure the unit from your smart phone – via our free-to-use VictronConnect app . Transmitted data can be networked to one, two – or more solar chargers connected to the same battery bank. Works for 12, 24 and 48 volt battery banks Works for both Lithium and Lead battery banks Compatible with most BlueSolar and SmartSolar MPPT charger models: see VE.Smart Networking for compatible-models list. Learn more from the Smart Battery Sense product page or from the Smart Battery Sense Manual – together with the VE.Smart Networking manual . Or watch the Smart Battery Sense introductory video: More options for Voltage- and Temperature- compensated charging Besides the Smart Battery Sense there are other options too. We’ve listed all of them in price order: Do nothing with no voltage-compensated charging. The MPPT already has ambient temperature sensing – though that method has its limitations. Installing Smart Battery Sense offers the best value for money. Connection to your solar charger(s) is wireless. Installing a BMV-712 Smart together with its temperature accessory , will provide full-blown battery monitoring, too. Connection to your solar charger(s) is wireless. Installing a Color Control GX or Venus GX , wired with a VE.Direct cable, and having DVCC enabled. This is for more complex systems – one’s which include inverter/chargers for example. Note: you may still need a BMV – subject to the battery-monitoring method for your system. Conclusion I’m pleased to see the launch of charge-compensated MPPTs; and of Smart Battery Sense . I’ll be happier knowing that my batteries are getting exactly the right charge with optimal temperature and voltage compensation. No matter how you choose to instigate voltage- and temperature- compensated charging, make sure you do – it brings only benefits! I always say: There are many ways to skin a cat – and the choice is yours. But Smart Battery Sense certainly does make sense when it comes to simplicity and economics! John Rushworth

John Rushworth • 26 February 2018

MultiGrid now also certified for France, Belgium & Spain

MultiGrid smooths out the risk of grid instability and energy costs by utilising energy storage and self-consumption. With Anti-Islanding built in, this makes MultiGrid approved for countries such as Germany, Austria and others – which now includes France, Belgium & Spain, along with their related certification. New approved countries The new MultiGrid certificates for France, Belgium & Spain relate to the following models: MultiGrid 12/3000/120-50 MultiGrid 24/3000/70-50 MultiGrid 48/3000/35-50 The new country specific certificates for the models above can be downloaded from the MultiGrid product detail page on our website. Click downloads, and then select certificates. Below is a complete listing of all MultiGrid Certificates. 1 VDE-AR-N 4105:2011-08 Germany 2 IEC 62040-1:2008 + corrigendum September 2008 + A1:2013 + Australia & New Zealand-Differences to IEC 60950-1:2005 (Reference Document to IEC 62040-1), second edition (2011-06-06) IEC+Australia 3 IEC 62109-1:2010 IEC+Australia 4 IEC 62109-2:2011 IEC+Australia 5 AS/NZS 4777.2:2015 Australia (1) 6 NRS 097-2-1:2017 South Africa 7 UTE C 15-712-1:2013-07 France 8 RD1699/2011 (modification according to RD 413/2014) Spain 9 C10/11 – 06.2012 Belgium 10 G83/2 August 2012 UK 11 G59/3-2 September 2015 UK Note (1): Only for MultiGrid 24/3000/70-50 and MultiGrid 48/3000/35-50. The 12V model is not approved for Australia. Firmware The new and necessary firmware for the MultiGrid can be downloaded from Victron Professional: https://professional.victronenergy.com/downloads/firmware If you don’t currently have an account for Victron Professional please create one here: https://professional.victronenergy.com/accounts/login/?next=/ VEConfigure The latest version of VEConfigure is here: https://www.victronenergy.com/support-and-downloads/software#ve-configuration-tools-for-ve-bus-products John Rushworth

John Rushworth • 09 February 2018

New Products: USA Blue Smart IP65 12/7 120V charger and more…

Now included in the Victron Energy charger range is the new Blue Smart IP65 12/7 120V for the US market. It’s in stock and available now, which includes local stock in America. This new US charger also uses the latest VictronConnect . Blue Smart IP65 chargers with VictronConnect are ideal for your workshop, motor vehicles such as (classic) cars – along with motorcycles, boats and RVs. Here’s the European plug version charging an Italian Ducati. Maybe one of our US customers can send us a Harley Davidson and US wall socket version of this photo!? Other new products announced and in stock include: Orion-Tr 24/12-30A (360W) Isolated DC-DC converter , its key features being: Remote on-off Adjustable output voltage Can be paralleled to increase output current IP43 protection Simple screw terminals Phoenix Inverter Control VE.Direct – A new control panel for all Phoenix VE.Direct inverters. VE.Can to CAN-bus BMS cables , comprising: VE.Can to CAN-bus BMS type A Cable 1.8 m VE.Can to CAN-bus BMS type B Cable 1.8 m Please see the VE.Can to CAN-bus BMS cables manual and the battery compatibility pages for further information. John Rushworth

John Rushworth • 02 February 2018

Venus GX: New explanatory videos

Two new explanatory Venus GX videos have just been produced by Marianka and her team, as an additional aid to the Venus GX product page . The videos are available in the drop down menu on that page and also of course in Victron Professional. For convenience they are embedded in this blog too. Introduction to the Venus GX What is the Venus GX In case you’re not familiar with this product, it has basically the same abilities as the Color Control GX but without the local screen and buttons. Having said that Venus GX can of course use an external screen like a phone or tablet etc. Due to the lack of the integrated screen – the upshot is it’s lower cost! Whether it be a Venus GX, a Color Control GX or even a Raspberry Pi running the Venus OS – these units are the communication-centre of your installation. Venus allows you to talk to all components in your system and ensure they are working in harmony. Monitoring of live data, and changing settings is performed by using your smartphone (or other device) via the free-to-use Victron Remote Management Portal ( VRM ). How to connect to the Venus GX We hope these videos give an insight into the Venus GX. If there are other products you’d like to see with similar videos just let us know in the Disqus comments below. John Rushworth

John Rushworth • 16 January 2018

Collaboration to deliver PAYG solar solutions to the Congo

Victron Energy offers many beneficial products for pay-as-you-go ( PAYG ), enabling customers to take advantage of high quality systems at an affordable cost. Collaborations are being forged with various partners to offer turnkey solutions in this domain. BBOXX, a next generation utility, has recently launched PAYG solar systems in towns and cities in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This has been enabled through a technical collaboration with Victron Energy and will deliver reliable, clean and affordable power to businesses, enhancing productivity and powering growth. My thanks to Yoann le Fol (Victron PAYG sales engineer) and BBOXX for the information used in this blog. John Rushworth What is PAYG? Over the last several years new business models have emerged that could considerably accelerate the progress of access to reliable electricity, especially in low income countries. These models take advantage of improvements in information and communications technologies (ICT) and the declining cost of renewables. The implementation of the PAYG model in Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia is one of the most significant examples. In short, PAYG means that a company rents solar energy systems to consumers – households, shops, SMEs, etc. Consumers then use mobile money to transfer payments on a regular basis and pay back their system over a contract period (in general 1 to 3 years). Once paid, ownership is transferred to the consumer. It is a prepaid scheme and solar systems are automatically blocked if customer payments are overdue. This allows PAYG providers to minimise costs and mitigate risk – whilst consumers overcome the high upfront cost of the technology. Project in the DRC In the DRC less than 14 per cent of citizens have access to any form of reliable electricity, which is a significant barrier to economic development. The combination of BBOXX and Victron Energy technologies will serve the energy needs in various areas of the DRC, providing SMEs such as grocery stores, restaurants and micro-processors, with productive power solutions of up to 5.0kW. BBOXX has launched initial operations in Eastern DRC ( Goma ). This region of around 1.5 million inhabitants experiences regular blackouts which exceed 5 hours daily. Solar systems eliminate the time wasted in solving disruption to an energy supply due to these frequent power cuts. Businesses for example can improve productivity with this reliable power and scale up their operations as required. Such systems increase access to affordable and clean power, reducing reliance on diesel generators too. Operations in the field are conducted in collaboration with GoShop, a Victron Energy authorised distributor in Congo. GoShop supplies and installs solar systems whist BBOXX runs the PAYG activities – project development, payment collection, customer relationship, etc. Technical Collaboration The technical collaboration with BBOXX forms part of a Victron Energy strategy to provide outstanding solutions to the PAYG market. Quality of the system components is a key requirement to ensure consumer satisfaction as well as project sustainability and profitability over the years. Victron Energy inverters and charge controllers have for many years proven their robustness which makes the brand a preferred choice for PAYG. Moreover Victron has developed technical features particularly beneficial for systems durability and software integration – remote monitoring, battery life algorithm, overload protections, serial communication ports, etc. The collaboration with BBOXX will see large solar solutions deployed based on the PAYG model , utilising Phoenix inverters and MPPT solar charge controllers . The systems are seamlessly linked up with BBOXX software which includes customer and payment management as well as smart monitoring and control. This technology proactively troubleshoots battery depletion issues for example, before they become an issue for the customer. Conclusion Victron Energy Managing Director, Matthijs Vader said: “We believe this collaboration will provide opportunities for both urban and rural populations to move up the energy ladder with quality solar systems. Victron Energy welcomes this new venture and wishes all involved every success.” Credits The images used in this blog are courtesy of BBOXX Further information Victron Energy : Yoann Le Fol – Sales Engineer PAYG ( ylefol@victronenergy.com ) BBOXX Media Enquiries : Amy Boekstein, Instinctif Partners, bboxx@instinctif.com / 0207 457 2064 Rolf Merchant, Instinctif Partners, bboxx@instinctif.com / 0207 457 2049 BBOXX website – http://www.bboxx.co.uk GoShop : Agence de Kinshasa: +243 971287252 / kin@goshop.cd Agence de Goma: +243 999 249 007 / goma@goshop.cd Agence de Bukavu : +243 001272727 / bukavu@goshop.cd GoShop website – http://www.goshop.cd

John Rushworth • 23 November 2017

Innovation never stops: METSTRADE Show 2017

Last week in Amsterdam saw the 30th anniversary METSTRADE Show, billed as the world’s largest and most visited B2B leisure marine equipment show. As ever Victron Energy had a strong presence, with many new products on display – Innovation never stops. It proved to be an exciting week with Victron staff from all around the world in attendance, who were able to discuss and demonstrate the plethora of products on display. Added to that was the well attended Victron Energy distributors’ meeting, lunches, dinners, dancing and fun. Here then is a photographic round up from the show last week. At the show The Victron Energy stand. Socialising at the busy Victron stand. Nobody knows how Johannes managed to end up with the cake! Still it was a nice gesture from the organisers for 30 years of loyal Victron attendance. If you don’t recognise that display screen next to the cake, that’s the CAN vu 500 which along with the Color Control GX, Venus GX, Raspberry Pi and others, utilise Victron’s Venus software. System monitoring is one of Victron’s great strengths as is integration and connectivity with other brands. Examples of these are: Capi2 (more on this joint venture here ) Fischer Panda (see this Victron blog E-PLEX EmpirBus (more on this in a Victron blog soon) Yacht Defined discuss system integration as a guest of Victron Energy on their stand. SmartSolar MPPT controllers on show. See this blog for the latest 250 Volt SmartSolar MPPT controllers . Batteries & Chargers galore – including the new Phoenix Smart Charger show below, which will be available early next year. You may notice a small device sitting on top of the grey AGM telecom battery – that’s a neat new accessory called the Smart Battery Sense, shown below, which measures voltage and temperature using Victron’s Smart technology. New accessory – Smart Battery Sense. The new Phoenix Smart IP43 battery charger. The new Phoenix Smart IP43 battery charger, available early 2018. Adaptive 5-stage charge algorithm Potential free alarm contacts Remote on-off (also for Li-ion BMS) Configure and monitor with your Smartphone Ideal for use with Smart Battery Sense accessory The new VE.Direct LoRaWAN module. We’ve written about the new VE.Direct LoRaWAN module previously, but what’s next and works well with it – let’s just say there’s some great Fleet monitoring implementations planned – Innovation never stops. Time to socialise… Every stand should have a DJ or two… Seems like a good idea… Diligent staff… Those hats need explaining… Conclusion Now I understand the hats – and like the photo-booth images say – thanks for joining us at METS 2017. Until next year… Credits Thanks to Marianka Pranger of Victron Energy and Sanne van Maarten of Maarten Schuth Photography for the photographs and information. John Rushworth

John Rushworth • 06 November 2017

More SmartSolar 250 Volt MPPT models announced

From time to time we let you know what’s new, in stock and available now – just in case you’ve missed anything in the pricelist or on e-order . In March we announced the MPPT 250/100 and MPPT 250/85 (shown in the blog headline image with optional plug-in LCD display) – now we can add more 250V SmartSolar models. New models The latest in the ultra-fast Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) Smart Solar Charge Controller range are the following, available with MC4 or Tr cable connections. SmartSolar MPPT 250/60-MC4 Solar chargers (SCC125060310) SmartSolar MPPT 250/70-Tr Solar chargers (SCC125070210) SmartSolar MPPT 250/70-MC4 Solar chargers (SCC125070310) SmartSolar MPPT 250/60-Tr Solar chargers (SCC125060210) These all cater for a maximum PV open circuit voltage of 250V (under maximum coldest conditions) with a 245V start up and maximum operating voltage. If you are not familiar with calculating voltages for differing temperatures please read the Bob Hopman blog on ‘ Matching solar modules to MPPT charge controllers ‘ which includes a link to the VE-MPPT-Calc.xlsx spreadsheet. Key features Bluetooth Smart built-in: enables set-up and monitoring with a smart phone or other Bluetooth enabled device. Ultra-fast Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT). Advanced Maximum Power Point Detection in case of partial shading conditions. Battery Life: intelligent battery management by load shedding. Automatic battery voltage recognition. Flexible charge algorithm. Over-temperature protection and power de-rating when temperature is high. Related software Victron Toolkit app Victron VRM app MPPT Calculator Excel sheet VictronConnect app Additional information Further information is available on the product webpage . John Rushworth

John Rushworth • 18 September 2017

BMV-712 Smart: Battery Monitor with Bluetooth built-in

The BMV-712 Smart battery monitor has to be one of the most eagerly awaited of Victron’s new products – and it is now in stock! Here’s what Victron Energy Distributor Energy Solutions (UK) Ltd., have to say about the BMV-712 Smart. A Distributor’s viewpoint “We have been lucky enough to receive our first unit of the new Victron Energy BMV-712 Smart Battery Monitor . The BMV-712 Smart is the same battery monitor as the BMV-702 but with the addition of Bluetooth connectivity built into the unit. No longer will you need the Victron Bluetooth Dongle to access the Victron Connect app – it is already integrated so you can easily view the device from your smart phone or tablet. Victron has started to integrate Bluetooth connectivity into a large number of their current products, including the new Smart Solar MPPT charge controllers . Once you have download the VictronConnect app you will be able to customise the settings on the BMV-712 Smart as well as completing it’s setup – all of which we found very quick and easy. All data monitoring can be completed on one screen including the state of charge, battery voltage & amps, temperature, and time remaining. All of this data is then collected and stored historically for later use – which is great for seeing how your battery bank performed over time. This will also allow you to connect to the internet for software updates and to update with new features as and when they become available. The biggest bonus we have found with having Bluetooth built into the unit is that there is now a VE.direct port free which allows you to use the Victron connect app for monitoring and also allows you to connect the unit into a Color Control GX or Venus GX for full system monitoring – you no longer have to choose between one or the other.” Time to upgrade I have two BMV-702 monitors on my electric propulsion sailing yacht below decks, both with battery temperature readouts. Whilst the domestic battery bank only needs checked for SOC occasionally, I do need to have a real-time readout of the propulsion bank in the cockpit whilst sailing, to monitor power usage of the motor. Presently I need to use my smartphone via 4G or the local LAN to do this – but now we have the BMV-712 Smart it’ll be much quicker and easier to use the VictronConnect app instead. Both battery monitors though will still be connected to my Color Control GX and logging data to the VRM too. Time then for an upgrade to get the best of both worlds – and with no need to plug in a Bluetooth dongle separately to check for firmware updates. All in all, good reasons to upgrade. You too may have similar reasons to upgrade? Conclusion What a terrific product – I’m ordering one! Thanks to Energy Solutions (UK) Ltd., for the video and info in this blog. Why not check them out and give them a ‘Like’ on Facebook … John Rushworth

John Rushworth • 31 August 2017

Free internet connection using LoRaWAN to VRM

It’s a little unfair of me to grab your attention with the ‘free internet’ connection and the new VE.Direct LoRaWAN module to the VRM , but it’s true – no data charge. However as with everything there’s always two sides to the coin – benefits to connecting products this way and some limitations. Regardless this new product might just be what you need to connect Victron products to monitor data remotely, such as battery monitors, solar charge controllers and inverters. Typical examples Before explaining LoRaWAN (in case you are not aware of it) it makes more sense to give you an idea of how you might connect and use the new Victron Energy module. Small electric hire boats such as those used on lakes or canals. The idea being that there only needs to be LoRaWAN coverage in the harbour – doing it this way keeps it simple with no data running costs when monitoring that all boats are plugged in and charging correctly overnight. Forklifts. Utilising the same idea but as it is typically a smaller area then one can monitor the total area of where the forklifts drive. Robot carts or other autonomous devices that have a battery and move around. For example feeding robots on a farm, pods at an airport, etc. Mobile road-side information displays around a construction area: just one GSM enabled LoRaWAN router in the area would be enough as all the information displays can send their data out via the one gateway. Fish farm feeding pens or anything else you can imagine based on the above suggestions. What is LoRaWAN? The VE.Direct LoRaWAN (Long Range wide area network) module is essentially a radio transmitter which broadcasts data (in this instance information about the status of your Victron installation) to a nearby Internet of Things (IoT) gateway. The gateway should be within about 2km of your location if you live in a town, but could be as far away as 30km if you live in a rural location. This device uses infrastructure provided by ‘The Things Network’. Their network of gateways is constantly expanding and you can check coverage in your area here: https://www.thethingsnetwork.org/map No gateway in your area? If there’s no coverage in your area it’s simple to add a gateway yourself be that to improve the coverage of the Things Network, either for your personal use or to benefit others. You can purchase your own gateway, or start building one yourself. Why not check out the From zero to LoRaWAN in a weekend guide. Ordering Now the first batch of modules have arrived in stock with more following immediately – check e-order or with your dealer for current stock levels and delivery. Product page & manual For further information see: VE.Direct LoRaWAN module – prouct page VE.Direct LoRaWAN module – user manual Conclusion If you have an application that requires a no data cost monitoring solution where hourly data notifications are suffice – then the VE.Direct LoRaWAN module may well be the answer. Free data connections can only be a good thing! John Rushworth

John Rushworth • 04 August 2017

SmartSolar MPPTs with Bluetooth Smart built-in

Previously we’ve reported on the SmartSolar MPPT 250/100 & 250/85 . Now we can add the following models, also with Bluetooth Smart built-in: SmartSolar MPPT 100/30 – 12 / 24 Volt (awaiting stock) SmartSolar MPPT 100/50 – 12 / 24 Volt (currently in stock) SmartSolar MPPT 150/35 – 12 / 24 / 36 / 48 Volt (currently in stock) As Bluetooth Smart is built-in there’s no need for a VE.Direct to USB interface or VE.Direct Bluetooth Smart dongle to use the free VictronConnect software or app, as you would need to do with the standard MPPTs. VictronConnect Cables and dongles aside now is certainly the time to go Bluetooth Smart built-in – especially with the release this week of VictronConnect v3.1 which has a demo mode, can save, share & load files and more. See what VictronConnect v3.1 can do here . Pending additional certification Whilst the standard BlueSolar MPPTs have recently been awarded UL 1741 and CSA C22.2 compliance the SmartSolar models are expected to be certified before the year end also. SmartSolar If you are not familiar with Victron Energy’s range of SmartSolar MPPTs this is what they do. These are ultra-fast, Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT), solar charge controllers with built-in Bluetooth and by utilising the free VictronConnect app many parameters can be viewed and set, such as battery voltage, solar history, load output, flexible battery charge algorithms plus day/night timing and light dimming options. These advanced MPPTs also include Advanced Maximum Power Point Detection in case of partial shading conditions. If you are not familiar with choosing the correct MPPT charge controller/s and matching to your solar panel/s then do read Bob Hopman’s informative blog , which includes a handy spreadsheet to help you get it all spot on. Get smart with SmartSolar! John Rushworth

John Rushworth • 24 July 2017

BlueSolar MPPTs awarded UL 1741 and CSA C22.2 certification

Good news – All BlueSolar MPPTs have been awarded UL 1741 and CSA C22.2 compliance. For those familiar with this certification the applicable standards are: Applicable Standards UL 1741, Standard for Safety Inverters, Converters, Controllers and Interconnection System Equipment for Use With Distributed Energy Resources – Second Edition; Reprint with revisions through and including September 7, 2016 CSA C22.2 NO. 107.1-16 Power conversion equipment, Fourth Edition Certificate download A PDF copy of this certificate of compliance is available. All distributors and dealers are encouraged to share this information with their clients, be they current or potential. Important stock note It is important to note that the current stock of BlueSolar MPPTs do not yet have the required text screened onto the products, nor the required modifications to the manuals. Therefore, although the electronics and the assembly plant have been approved ‘as is’, products currently in stock do not comply in their present format – it will take 2-3 months before fully compliant products (with the required text on them and updated manuals) are in stock. This certainly doesn’t stop you making your clients aware of the certification and pending stock though! Future developments Continuing with further product certification the following products are expected to be certified before the end of this year. All SmartSolar models. All 120V Multis and Quattros. Spread the word… John Rushworth

John Rushworth • 17 July 2017

New style MultiPlus set to replace earlier Compacts

A sleeker, more modern looking MultiPlus in the 500VA – 800VA range with voltages of 12, 24 and 48V is set to replace the earlier MultiPlus Compact range. If you are familiar with Victron Energy products you might just have noticed that 48V is now included in the new range, which wasn’t the case with the Compacts. The new range is gradually being introduced. Here are the ones planned for stock at the end of July. Stock arriving end of July MultiPlus 12/800/35-16 230V VE.Bus MultiPlus 24/800/16-16 230V VE.Bus MultiPlus 48/800/9-16 230V VE.Bus What’s the difference? Very little is the answer as the new design has all the exceptional features from before, plus the new sleeker and more modern look. The new design, when comparing the new models above with comparable earlier Compacts has slightly differing dimensions – a little wider and a bit smaller in depth – as h x w x d in mm for the new 800VA range is 375 x 240 x 100, compared to 375 x 214 x 110 previously. And let’s not forget the price – it’s now less than the original Compact. Connections Here’s a view of the base and connections of the MultiPlus 12/800/35-16 230V VE.Bus. DIP switches are behind the small ‘Settings’ panel. Note there is now one VE.BUS connection due to space constraints, whereas there were two previously (which were paralleled anyhow). MultiPlus Magic If you are an end user you might not be aware of all that can be done with a MultiPlus. Here’s a précis of this multifunctional product. The MultiPlus, as the name suggests, is a combined inverter and charger in one elegant package. Its many features include a true sine wave inverter, adaptive charging, hybrid PowerAssist technology, plus multiple system integration features. To learn more please see the blog ‘MultiPlus magic: Small generator, big power ‘, where I do my best to explain much that a MultiPlus can do. Conclusion Important note: The 500VA is a Multi at present, as it lacks PowerAssist, paralleling and three-phase capabilities. That however is set to change with a firmware and hardware update, so it too will be a new model and fully featured MultiPlus, just as the 800VA currently is. For now if you require those capabilities in the 500VA Multi format, we recommend you purchase the 800VA MultiPlus version, rather than wait for the new updated MultiPlus 500VA version. Further information and datasheets for the models above can be found here . To learn when a new product is in stock or planned, if a distributor or dealer, there is of course e-order . For end users simply contact your dealer and you could be one of the first with a new style MultiPlus. First come, first served… John Rushworth

John Rushworth • 10 May 2017

New Victron Energy products & introductory offer

Yesterday was boat launch day here on the West Coast of Scotland, so it was time to fully recharge my Lithium electric (auxiliary) propulsion batteries from their winter storage phase, in readiness for the sailing season. That’s all I had to do, bringing the cells up to 3.4V each to ensure cell balancing started and my string charge setting of 28.4V was reached quickly, using 1.1kW of charge – all checked and controlled using the VictronConnect app via the VRM console to my Color Control, whilst drinking coffee sitting in my armchair at home. You get the idea… Indeed I was feeling quite smug at that, along with so little to do when I rolled up at the boatyard – compounded by watching the ‘dinosaur diesel’ boats faffing around with fuel, coolant, and oils. It didn’t take me long though to come down to earth as the latest Victron Energy product updates had just hit my mailbox. Time and tide wait for no man. I thought I was bang up to date with my 2 x 200Ah, 12.8V LiFePO4 electric drive batteries and my 2 x 130Ah, 12V AGM house batteries. Not any more it seems – now there are 300Ah LiFePO4 ones in stock which even have Bluetooth Smart built in! Whilst there are many thousands of charge cycles left in my Lithiums, I’m not so sure about the AGMs as they regularly run higher loads for longer, with quite deep discharge using my MultiPlus inverter/charger for a kettle and electric grill. No need to worry on that score either it seems, as now there are AGM Super Cycle batteries in stock – perfect for deeper discharging when compared to conventional AGMs. I know what I’ll be using for house batteries when the time comes! Upgrading your batteries? In fact if you’re planning an AGM house battery upgrade now’s the time to take a look at these Super Cycle AGMs, as for a limited time there is an introductory offer. See E-Order and you will receive a 10% additional discount with respect to the Q2/2017 pricelist, or for end users talk to your Victron dealer for pricing. Yesterday evening saw Elektra safely tucked up in her berth, so today as I blog aboard her (after the obligatory celebratory beer last night) I thought I’d list some more of the new Victron products on offer. Elektra in the setting sun New products It’s now 7 weeks since my last update of new Victron products, so in case you missed that you can check out the blog – Hot Stuff: New Victron Energy products . In the intervening weeks here are the latest new products that have now come into stock. There are more in the pipeline but we don’t announce these until they are stocked. LiFePO4 Battery 12,8V/300Ah Smart LiFePO4 Battery 12,8V/200Ah Smart LiFePO4 Battery 12,8V/160Ah Smart LiFePO4 Battery 12,8V/90Ah Smart 12V/230Ah AGM Super Cycle Batt. (M8) 12V/100Ah AGM Super Cycle Batt. (M6) 12V/170Ah AGM Super Cycle Batt. (M8) 12V/165Ah AGM Deep Cycle Batt 12V/90Ah AGM Deep Cycle Batt. (M6) 6V/240Ah AGM Deep Cycle Batt 12V/165Ah Gel Deep Cycle Batt 12V/90Ah Gel Deep Cycle Batt Lynx Ion BMS 1000A Lynx Ion BMS 400A Blue Smart IP67 Charger 24/8(1) 230V CEE 7/7 Blue Smart IP67 Charger 24/12(1) 230V CEE 7/7 Blue Smart IP65 Charger 24/5(1) 230V AU/NZ Retail Blue Smart IP67 Charger 12/25(1) 230V CEE 7/7 Blue Smart IP67 Charger 12/17(1) 230V CEE 7/7 Phoenix Inverter 48/800 230V VE.Direct SCHUKO Phoenix Inverter 24/800 230V VE.Direct IEC Phoenix Inverter 24/800 120V VE.Direct NEMA 5-15R Phoenix Inverter 12/800 120V VE.Direct NEMA 5-15R Phoenix Inverter 12/800 230V VE.Direct IEC Energy Meter ET340 – 3 phase – max 65A/phase Conclusion As if all the above were not enough I also discovered the new more economic version of the Color Control GX – the Venus GX is soon to be available too. For now though I’m just delighted to be aboard Elektra after the winter – even if I’m back to old fashioned local CCGX button pushing! Elektra’s salon and blogging station… More on the the Venus GX can be discovered in the ‘panels and system monitoring’ section of the website. For the differing battery options and datasheets see the ‘ Batteries ‘ section. More new products as the information becomes available – and as long as I have a 4G signal… John Rushworth

John Rushworth • 31 March 2017

Instructional video: How to connect the BMV-700 battery monitor

From time to time we hear of people saying they can’t see the loads on their BMV battery monitor – this is down to incorrect wiring. This new instructional video is an aid to ensure the BMV is wired correctly. BMV-700 series models There are 3 model variants within the BMV series range : BMV-700 & BMV-702 (6.5- 95 VDC supply voltage range) and the BMV-700HS (60– 385 VDC supply voltage range). The principal function of the BMV series is to follow and indicate the state-of-charge of a battery. The video below gives clear instructions to ensure the BMV-700 and related models are wired correctly. For the additional functionality that the BMV-702 provides, namely starter battery or temperature or mid-point voltage monitoring, please see the quick install guide . How to connect the BMV-700 battery monitor Video text transcript Hello and welcome! In this instructional video I will show you how to connect your BMV-700 battery monitor. The main function of the BMV is to follow and indicate the state-of-charge of a battery. To connect the BMV-700 you will need the following tools: A terminal screwdriver A socket wrench Inside the box of the BMV you will find: A BMV-700 A Shunt A UTP cable And a Positive supply cable to power the BMV You can mount the BMV with or without the square bezel. Please read the quick installation guide to see how to mount the BMV with the bezel. The mounting ring has 2 sides. With this side you can mount the BMV to a 7 to 18 millimetre thick plate or wall. With the other side of the ring, you can mount the BMV to a plate or wall with a thickness of 0.5 to 8 millimetres. Connect the BMV to the shunt with the UTP cable. Then connect the terminal ring of the positive supply cable to the plus pole of the battery. We will mount it on top of the plus cable. The other side of this cable goes into the green terminal of the shunt. Use the terminal screwdriver to push down the orange connection and then insert the cable. The Shunt has 2 poles: one for the battery and one for Load and Charger. It is important not to mix up these two. Connect the ‘- Load and Charger’ side of the shunt to all the Load and Chargers in the system. Connect the negative pole of the battery directly to the ‘- Battery’ side of the shunt. Do not connect anything else to this side of the shunt. In this way, the shunt will measure all current that is going in and coming out of the battery. Your BMV is now ready for configuration. When you start up the BMV for the first time, the scrolling text ‘Battery capacity’ will show up. Press any button to stop scrolling and the factory default value 200 Amp hours will appear in edit mode: the first digit will blink. Enter the desired value with the + and – buttons. Press SELECT to set the next digit in the same manner. Repeat this procedure until the required battery capacity is displayed. The capacity is automatically stored when the last digit has been set by pressing SELECT. This is indicated with a short beep. Your BMV-700 is now ready to use! Thank you for watching this video. Conclusion Thanks to Marianka Pranger for organising this and Claire for narrating the video. If you have any particular instructional videos that you’d like to see made, please leave a comment in Disqus below or email Marianka directly at: mpranger@victronenergy.com Additional videos in the instructional video series can be found at: https://www.victronenergy.com/blog/category/instructional-videos/ John Rushworth

John Rushworth • 20 March 2017

Hot Stuff: New Victron Energy products

New and ever improving products are a feature of the Victron Energy brand. Personally speaking it’s often hard to keep up with this continually evolving product range, so I thought it would be handy to let you know what’s hot, what’s new, in stock and available now – just in case you’ve missed anything on the pricelist or e-order . High Voltage The latest in the u ltra-fast Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) Smart Solar Charge Controller range are the following two models, available with MC4 or Tr cable connections: MPPT 250/100 MPPT 250/85 ( shown in the blog headline image with optional plug-in LCD display ) Both the 100 Amp and the 85 Amp cater for a maximum PV open circuit voltage of 250V (under maximum coldest conditions) with a 245V start up and maximum operating voltage. If you are not familiar with calculating voltages for differing temperatures please read the Bob Hopman blog on ‘ Matching solar modules to MPPT charge controllers ‘ which includes a link to the VE-MPPT-Calc.xlsx spreadsheet. That’s a lot of kVA 15kVA is now available in the uprated inverter/charger Quattro range . This can save paralleling smaller units, as you may have done previously to get a larger power output. This new 2 x 230V input, 48/15000/200-100/100 Quattro model (if we break down the model notation ) is 15kVA continuous output power at 25°C , 200 Amps battery charge current at 25°C ambient, with a maximum feed through current of 2 x 100 Amps. New marine charger – IP67 rated The new IP65 Skylla marine charger (dust and water jet resistant) accepts 120 and 230 volts input in the 90-265 volt range and is available in the following configurations – ( 12/60 (1+1), 12/60 (3), 24/30 (1+1), 24/30 (3). The (1+1) features 2 isolated outputs. The second output, limited to approximately 3A and with a slightly lower output voltage, is intended to top up a starter battery. The Skylla-IP44 (3) features 3 isolated outputs. All outputs can supply the full rated output current. Besides its IP44 rating, the charger is further able to withstand the rigours of the marine environment such as heat, humidity and salt air. The circuit boards are also protected by an acrylic coating for maximum corrosion resistance. Additionally temperature sensors ensure that power components will always operate within specified limits – if needed by automatic reduction of output current in extreme environmental conditions. Other new products now in stock Although the new 15kVA Quattro is already awaiting restock, the IP44 Skylla marine charger is currently in stock – as are these other new products listed below: Solar Panel 150W-12V Mono 1480×673×35mm series 3a 12V/220Ah AGM Deep Cycle Battery 12V/60Ah Gel Deep Cycle Battery 12V/66Ah AGM Deep Cycle Battery 12V/110Ah AGM Deep Cycle Battery (M8) 12V/130Ah AGM Deep Cycle Batt. (M8) Blue Smart IP65 Charger 12/7(1) 230V Blue Smart IP65 Charger 12/10(1) 230V Blue Smart IP65 Charger 12/15(1) 230V Blue Smart IP65 Charger 12/4(1) 230V 12V/265Ah GEL Deep Cycle Batt. (M8) 12V/230Ah AGM Super Cycle Batt. (M8) Blue Power IP22 Charger 24/12(1) 230V CEE 7/7 Conclusion As if all the above were not enough I also learned, as we were going to press, there are some new Smart Lithium batteries too. These include improved balancing, second generation BMS with Bluetooth Smart built-in – which means the information you get is that which you see in the screenshots in the VictronConnect manual. More on the above and other new products as the information becomes available… John Rushworth

John Rushworth • 03 March 2017

MultiGrid 3000 VA accolade & availablity

How’s your inbox? I’m sure many of us have difficulty keeping track of email, especially if you are subscribed to lists and press releases for work. Some catch your eye, others not. Of course when Victron is mentioned I’m always curious and pay attention! Below are the salient parts of a press release from Redflow that lauds Victron Energy’s MultiGrid 48/3000 – now approved for connection to the Australian electricity grid. We’ve blogged about Redflow previously as energy storage disruptors . In principal, as far as Victron are concerned, their Redflow ZBM (zinc-bromine flow battery) is well integrated into the Color Control GX and therefore a perfect partner for our range of Bi-directional Battery Inverters (MultiPlus etc.) What is MultiGrid? A step back first; some of you might not know about the new MultiGrid. In fact on checking stock levels using the Victron P&A App I see the 24V version is already sold out and there is diminishing – but in the process of being replenished stock for the 48V. The new MultiGrid is important because some countries require certification for home grid connections – and this is what home grid connected customers have been waiting for. At present for example there is approval for Germany under VDE-AR-N 4105. Others countries (per this blog) have been certified too, plus additional countries will follow that. To sum up the MultiGrid, when compared to the MultiPlus: Several hardware and firmware modifications were needed to qualify for VDE-AR-N 4105, which is a Germany specific energy storage related standard. The resulting product is a country specific MultiGrid. Whilst we wait for other country specific certification, here’s the important bits concerning certification for the Australian market taken from the Redflow press release. Victron plans Victron’s Area Manager for Oceania Margreet Leeftink said Victron had sought AS4777.2 certification for the MultiGrid 48/3000 to meet customer demand. “We have an increasing number of customers, in Australia and overseas, who want to use Victron inverters with grid-connected systems,” she said. “This is just our first grid-ready model. We are planning to progressively release AS4777-compliant models throughout our battery inverter range during the rest of this year.” Redflow applause Australian energy storage specialist Redflow Limited has welcomed news that Victron Energy’s MultiGrid 48/3000 battery inverter is now approved for connection to the Australian electricity grid. The MultiGrid 48/3000 is a version of Victron’s popular MultiPlus 48/3000 inverter enhanced to meet the AS/NZS 4777.2:2015 standard for grid connection of energy systems via battery inverters. The Victron MultiGrid 48/3000 inverter is now listed on the Clean Energy Council website . Redflow CEO Simon Hackett said the availability of the Victron MultiGrid 48/3000 inverter for grid-connected battery systems was good news for consumers. “Victron inverters are easy to configure, they work beautifully with ZCell and they are competitively priced,” he said. Simon Hackett with his home battery system. “Victron inverters have proved popular with ZCell customers who install off-grid energy storage systems, so AS4777.2 approval makes these inverters available to a much larger market. Victron inverters integrate easily with one-battery ZCell systems and are fully compatible with all major brands of AC solar inverters. This certification builds on the strength of the Victron product line in off-grid scenarios where it has a long pedigree in Australia.” Conclusion Thanks to John Harris, Managing Director of Impress Media Australia , for the press information used in this blog. John Rushworth Links If you want to learn more about Redflow please see the following links: http://redflow.com https://www.facebook.com/redflowenergystorage https://www.zcell.com https://www.facebook.com/ZcellAU

John Rushworth • 06 April 2016

New Blue Smart IP65 Chargers: Be Blue Smart and get connected!

Expanding and building upon Victron’s traditional markets – meet the new professional Blue Smart IP65 Charger range, with Bluetooth connectivity and control via the VictronConnect app. If its got a battery, be Blue Smart and get connected! Blue Smart uses Now you can look after your classic car, motorcycle or any other cherished possession in style, but of course it doesn’t stop there. It could equally be used in a workshop, on your boat, for a classic tractor, your motorhome, caravan, any wheeled vehicle, a small off-grid solar installation – in fact anywhere you have a battery that needs tender loving care, all controlled directly from your Smartphone, tablet or computer using VictronConnect. Blue Smart features The key features of the new Blue Smart IP65 Charger range are: Setup and configure, readout of voltage and current by Bluetooth Smart Water, dust and chemical resistant Seven step smart charge algorithm Recovery of fully discharged ‘dead’ batteries Automatic power supply function Automatic compensation for high or low temperature Several other battery life enhancing features Low power mode to charge smaller batteries Li-ion battery mode Blue Smart connectivity Your classic car might only be a brick wall away in a cold garage, but don’t worry just sit in your armchair in your warm living room to look after your battery via VictronConnect ! Accessories Accessories included with your Blue Smart charger Connect clamps M8 eyelet connectors Optional accessories 12V cigarette lighter plug with fuse Connect clamps with fuse 2 metre extension cable M6 eyelet connector with fuse Links to the optional accessories detailed above are given at the foot of the main Blue Smart product page: https://www.victronenergy.com/chargers/blue-smart-ip65-charger Blue Smart charger range The current range includes 12 and 24V models with differing current output options for the 12V models. See the datasheet for a guide for your particular battery application . Blue Smart IP65 Charger 12/7 Blue Smart IP65 Charger 12/10 Blue Smart IP65 Charger 12/15 Blue Smart IP65 Charger 24/8 Both voltage ratings also come with differing AC plug options. Check the current pricelist for that and model availability: https://www.victronenergy.com/information/pricelist Blue Smart video This video introduces the new Blue Smart IP65 Charger, with built in Bluetooth. Conclusion I can only think of one conclusion for this great new product – If its got a battery, be Blue Smart and get connected! John Rushworth

John Rushworth • 25 March 2016

New inverter range: Totally redesigned from the inside out

As ever Victron continue to surprise with an ever improving and expanding product range, so much so it is often difficult to keep pace with the rate of change! This is a good thing though and the purpose of this blog is to highlight and introduce you to the new, inexpensive, low power range of pure sinewave Phoenix Inverters. The range is from 250VA to 375VA in 12, 24 and 48 Volt formats. Whilst these products have been quietly introduced over the last few months, production is now set to ramp up over the Summer to keep pace with demand, plus there will be higher power models coming later in the year – and remember this is a total redesign from the inside out and includes a number of very desirable features. New design Whilst this range continues to use the well proven full bridge with toroidal transformer there is a new enclosure, new electronics and new software. The units comprise of a steel chassis and plastic cover; electronically the inverters have improved dynamic output voltage stability. Last but not least is the range of communication and configuration options using VE.Direct. More of that in a moment. Firstly one of the things you’ll notice in the image above is that the inverter has a QR code on it. This is very handy to access data sheets and manuals, plus of course you can also show customers and friends more about the product, both quickly and easily. For more about this see the blogpost: Victron Toolkit app – now with QR scanner Inverter features Proven reliability using full bridge plus toroidal transformer topology High start-up power ECO mode Remote On/Off LED diagnosis Available with different output sockets Screw terminals Filax Automatic Transfer Switch option VE.Direct communication port To learn more about these features, see the product datasheet which gives an explanation of each of these features. Communication In the image above you’ll note a VE.Direct communication port. This can be connected in one of two ways to communicate with and monitor your inverter. VE.Direct to USB interface VE.Direct Bluetooth Smart dongle Personally I’m a great fan of the Bluetooth Smart dongle option using VictronConnect . It really makes life easy. You can read more about this in the blogpost: VictronConnect v1.2 released: Now includes Mac OS X & Windows PC Whilst VictronConnect now supports Mac OS X & Windows PC, besides phones and tablets, please note the Windows PC version does not include Bluetooth support so that can only be used with the VE.Direct to USB interface . Before installing VictronConnect please read the manual and make sure it is compatible with your device/platform: https://www.victronenergy.com/live/victronconnect:start Configuration & Monitoring Using VictronConnect and the Bluetooth Smart dongle shown above (or a VE.Direct to USB interface cable) you can do the following: Configuration: Low voltage alarm trip and reset levels Low voltage cut-off and restart levels Output voltage 210 – 245V Frequency 50Hz or 60Hz ECO mode on/off and ECO mode sense level Monitoring: In and output voltage and current alarms Conclusion We hope you enjoy the new inverter range and welcome your feedback. Whilst the new range does not come with a free chocolate Easter egg – at least we hope we’ve whetted your appetite. Happy Easter! John Rushworth

John Rushworth • 08 March 2016

BatteryProtect: It does exactly what is says and more…

Affordable and effective the BatteryProtect range has been further expanded to include two new models; BatteryProtect 48V-100A and BatteryProtect 12/24V 65A. I wish I’d known about these earlier for my boat as they do far more than just protect. Of course they can be used in any battery application (not just boats) that needs to be protected and isolated. In fact why buy a battery isolation switch at all – when a BatteryProtect can do that and more. Lesson learned as they say. Key features LED display making setup/programming easy. Often used in lithium systems due to low standby current in comparison to a relay. Lithium system remotely controllable disconnect switch. Note that this no longer uses its internal voltage measurement for disconnecting, as it is now remotely controlled by the BMS. Ideal for vehicles, solar installations, boats and motorhomes. Solid state switching for longevity. Lower energy consumption than closing a relay. Can act as a battery isolator and be switched remotely. Use in conjunction with a BMV-700 series battery monitor for audible alarms and monitoring. And why not use the VictronConnect app & Bluetooth Smart dongle with your BMV or MPPT solar charge controller – making life even easier. Example schematic What exactly can BatteryProtect do? BatteryProtect will disconnect the battery from non-essential loads before it is completely discharged (which would damage the battery) or before it has insufficient power left, to crank an engine for example. Here are the features common to all models: Programming made easy using visual LED – can be set to engage / disengage at several different voltages. The seven segment display will indicate which setting has been chosen. Special setting for Li-ion batteries – in this mode the Battery Protect can be controlled by the VE.Bus BMS. Ultra-low current consumption – this is important in case of Li-ion batteries, especially after low voltage shutdown. Please see our Li-ion battery datasheet and the VE.Bus BMS manual for more information. Over voltage protection – to prevent damage to sensitive loads due to over voltage, the load is disconnected whenever the DC voltage exceeds 64V; 16 V and 32V respectively for 12V and 24V systems. Ignition proof – no relays but MOSFET switches, and therefore no sparks. Delayed alarm output – the alarm output is activated if the battery voltage drops below the preset disconnect level for more than 12 seconds. Starting the engine will therefore not activate the alarm. The alarm output is a short circuit proof open collector output to the negative (minus) rail, max. current 50mA. The alarm output is typically used to activate a buzzer, LED or relay. Delayed load disconnect and delayed reconnect – the load will be disconnected 90 seconds after the alarm has been activated. If the battery voltage increases again to the connect threshold within this time period (after the engine has been started for example), the load will not be disconnected. The load will be reconnected 30 seconds after the battery voltage has increased to more than the preset reconnect voltage. Model Range 12/24V models In addition to the features above (if choosing a 12/24V model) these have automatic detection of 12 or 24 V system voltages. BatteryProtect 12/24V 65A BatteryProtect 12/24V-100A BatteryProtect 12/24V-220A 48V model BatteryProtect 48V-100A Conclusion An affordable, multi function product. Fit to new systems or upgrade your old ones. Learn more at: https://www.victronenergy.com/battery_protect/battery-protect John Rushworth

John Rushworth • 19 November 2015

METSTRADE show 2015: New Victron Energy products on display

The METSTRADE show is the world’s largest trade exhibition of equipment, materials and systems for the international marine leisure industry. It is organised by RAI Amsterdam in association with ICOMIA (International Council of Marine Industry Associations). The show has already been running for two days where a range of new Victron Energy products are on display. For those of you in the Amsterdam area the last day of the show is today, Thursday 19th November. If you can’t make it here’s a taster of some of the new products on display which include a new Skylla IP65 charger for instance, not to mention even more exciting new products in the pipeline. Important note: The products referred to in this blog are new and are currently only being shown at the METSTRADE show. Please keep an eye on the Victron Energy Price list for their expected availability. Low Power Inverters Shown in the headline image above are a new range of Low Power Inverters in 12 / 24 / 48V 250VA and 12 / 24 / 48V 375VA sizes. Blue Power IP65 charger with Bluetooth! Connect to these new Bluetooth enabled chargers with the VictronConnect app . VictronConnect App As you can see in the image below, it’s not just the new Blue Power chargers that can be connected via Bluetooth with the VictronConnect app. Peak Power Packs Shown below is one of the new range of 12.8 Volt Peak Power Packs, which come in 8 / 20 / 30 and 40 Ah sizes, which can also be connected to via Bluetooth with the VictronConnect App and the VE.Direct to Bluetooth Low Energy dongle . Cakes Not a new product as such – but it has taken 40 years of Victron Energy business before these could be baked! If you do make it along to the show there might be some left…or not! John Rushworth

John Rushworth • 12 October 2015

New product: 50A Buck-Boost DC-DC converter

This new product is a 50A Buck-Boost DC-DC converter used for charging a 12/24V service battery in vehicles with an intelligent alternator, as when the engine is running these alternators (powered by the on-board electronics of Euro 5 and 6 engines) do not always emit the correct charging current and therefore a DC-DC converter is essential for charging the service battery properly. Further details and a schematic detailing how this integrates into Victron Energy Lithium battery systems for vehicles will be the feature of a future blog post. For now this is merely the announcement of the product and specifications. If you require any information in the meantime, please comment in the Disqus comments section at the end of this blog. Uses Controlled charging of the service battery Automatic activation and deactivation of electric devices in vehicles on the basis of a unique engine running detection protocol (no annoying cables). General features Buck/boost converter can be fully programmed Suitable for all types of batteries Compact size: 213 x 120 x 30 cm Input voltage 10-30Vdc Output voltage 2-30Vdc (12/24Vdc variable settings) Power Capacity 50A (at 24 V/25A) Adjustable automatic current limiter Temperature monitoring Automatic activation when engine running LED status indicators Battery monitor by means of 2 RGB LEDs M8 connections Output for activation/deactivation of users USB for configuration/monitoring Separation of both batteries, so no additional relay required Built-in Lithium battery low-voltage protection device Description In order to preserve the vehicle’s starting battery, the 50A Buck-Boost DC-DC converter will only supply power once the engine has started. This is possible because of the built-in engine running detection system. Instead of this detection, the 50A Buck-Boost DC-DC converter can also be activated by means of a programmable input. Note: a CAN bus pr plus (+) 15 connection cannot always be used because the battery discharges in the case of ‘ignition on/engine off’. The 50A Buck-Boost DC-DC converter can be fully programmed by means of an extremely simple and user-friendly PC application. The output current (maximum 50A) has an (adjustable) automatic limiter. The automatic current limiter becomes active once the internal temperature gets close to a pre-configured maximum. The output voltage can be adjusted for all automotive settings and is independent of the input voltage due to the automatic buck/boost control, the latter which also ensures that the current never exceeds its preset value, not even when the input voltage is higher than the output voltage. John Rushworth. Product page link: https://www.victronenergy.com/dc-dc-converters/50a-buck-boost-dc-dc-converter

John Rushworth • 09 September 2015

New product: Orion-Tr 24/12-10 (120W) DC-DC converter (with more coming)

Victron Energy’s range of Orion DC-DC converters are one of the widest (if not the widest) available in the DC-DC converter market. They include input voltages over a wide range from 12 V to 110 V and output voltages (both fixed and adjustable) in the 12 V, 24 V and 48 V range. Now we are adding to that, starting with the new Orion-Tr product range. The first of these is the new Orion-Tr 24/12-10 (120W) DC-DC converter, shown in the image above. This new Orion-Tr product is now available from stock. New features in comparison to existing models Screw type terminals instead of ‘Faston’ (No special tools needed for installation) Smaller High efficiency (Using synchronous rectification, full load efficiency exceeds 95%) IP Rating (IP43 protection, when installed with the screw terminals oriented downwards) New Tr model range The new non isolated range of converters (with isolated ones coming at a later date) comprise: Orion 24/12-5 ( available ) Orion 24/12-10 ( available ) Orion 24/12-15 (pending stock) Orion 24/12-20 (pending stock) The documentation for the new Orion-Tr range is here: https://www.victronenergy.com/dc-dc-converters/orion-24-12-5-10 The documentation for the existing Orion range (which includes non isolated, isolated and IP67 models is here: https://www.victronenergy.com/dc-dc-converters/orion-dc-dc-converters-12v-24v-48v-110v John Rushworth

Bob Hopman • 20 August 2015

New product: MPPT Control

Have you ever wanted to see the status of your MPPT Solar charge controller – and control it? Now you can with the new MPPT Control from Victron Energy. MPPT Control lets you see the status and setup all MPPTs that use a VE.Direct communications port. The new MPPT Control is mounted in the familiar BMV-700 series housing, maintaining a consistent and professional look to your panels and systems monitoring equipment. The new MPPT Control part number is: SCC900500000. Features View live status information View historical information All-time values 30-day historical values MPPT setup MPPT Control Manual The MPPT Control manual in PDF format can be found on the product page here: https://www.victronenergy.com/panel-systems-remote-monitoring/mppt-control MPPT Control functionality The MPPT Control starts up in the ‘Live View’, which shows the nine most important values of the MPPT Solar charge controller, such as ‘solar panel power’, ‘today’s yield’, ‘voltages’ & ‘currents’, as well as ‘charge state’ and ‘load state’. Status solar panel voltage Other information such as the historical values of the MPPT can be accessed by pressing ‘select’. All-time values like ‘total yield’ and other valuable information such as ‘maximum solar panel voltage’, ‘maximum & minimum battery voltage’ can also be viewed, as well as the last 4 errors. All that stored information from your MPPT can be selected and viewed with the MPPT Control. Within the 30-day history besides common information like ‘daily yield’, ‘minimum & maximum voltages and currents’, important information about the length of charge stages such as ‘bulk, absorption & float’ during a specific day can also be shown. With such extensive information the user can gain a considerable insight into their system. History day:30 Setting up a MPPT Solar charge controller Setting up a MPPT Solar charge controller has never been easier, as a PC is no longer required – if you have a MPPT Control. When the setup menu is accessed, you can setup the MPPT Solar charge controller, adapting its configuration to your battery voltage and type. Its easy to reset to factory defaults at anytime. Setup float voltage If the MPPT Control is connected to a MPPT that shuts down at night, the MPPT Control can be connected to a battery using the supplied cable. This way, the MPPT Control stays powered while the MPPT is off and the last received status, history and settings of the MPPT can be viewed. Note that with newer Victron Energy MPPTs and the ones with a load output, this power cable to the MPPT Control is not needed and the MPPT Control is powered through the VE.direct connection 24/7. Conclusion I don’t know about you – but I want one! Its good to keep things simple. Crawling into my yacht engine space to insert a cable into my 75/15 MPPT and then hooking it all up to my laptop (whose battery was flat) with a non existent laptop mains cable that I’d forget to put in my bag to setup my MPPT. Well, you get the idea. The amount of travelling and time that cost me in faffing about – could have bought and paid for a new MPPT Control. My order is in. What about yours? Please note: The older BlueSolar MPPT 70/15 which was discontinued in early 2014 is the only MPPT product that does have a VE.Direct port but won’t work with the new MPPT Control. Also, the long discontinued Blue Solar Charger VE.Can 150/75 and 150/85, the ones in the tall square enclosure and VE.Can connection, won’t work – since those early models don’t feature a VE.Direct Connection. Many thanks to Bob Hopman of Victron Energy for the images and information about this excellent new product. Bob is one of Victron’s resident solar experts. If you’ve not seen his blog post ‘ Matching solar modules to MPPT charge controllers ‘ and the handy Excel spreadsheet to help with that matching, then I suggest you download that too. A perfect companion to the new MPPT Control. John Rushworth

John Rushworth • 12 December 2014

Color Control GX: Accessories & Tips

Update Nov 19th 2018: The latest Wi-Fi dongle compatability info is here: https://www.victronenergy.com/live/ccgx:start#internet_connectivity See the section 1.6.2 Wi-Fi USB dongle. Update Jan 4th 2016: Tested Wi-Fi dongles as below, per Victron Live. For further internet connectivity information see Victron Live: https://www.victronenergy.com/live/ccgx:start#internet_connectivity With the recent release of firmware v1.16 for the Color Control GX (CCGX), there is now Wi-Fi USB support for the CCGX, which some may prefer over other internet connection options. The tested Wi-Fi dongles available for the CCGX are: CCGX WiFi module simple (Nano USB), small, low cost. Victron part number BPP900100200 Startech USB300WN2X2D , slightly higher cost and also better reception. Victron part number: BPP900200100 In the photo below you can see the small Zyxel Wi-Fi dongle. If your CCGX is installed in a panel without easy access to the rear, you may want one or two USB extensions for your CCGX accessories, such as a USB stick for data or a Wi-Fi or GPS dongle. If so, you may find the USB extension socket shown below suitable, when used in conjunction with a standard USB printer cable. Neutrik NAUSB-W-B Reversible USB gender changer (type A and B), black D-housing This is handy if you wish to move your Wi-Fi adapter or GPS for easier access or to a better reception area, for instance. In my case this allows me to place the dongle as high as possible in the interior of my boat, for the best reception. In fact I also bought the higher gain Startech too, which gives around a 20% gain in reception, but I find I tend to use this for my laptop as the antennae is far better than the built in one. The Startech also has a clip which mounts on the back, and at the top, of your laptop screen. It is also a back up for the CCGX if I’m in a poor Wi-Fi reception area. When not using the Wi-Fi, I also use the Neutrik USB port for my laptop mobile broadband and for 3G data comms to and from the CCGX, via the 3G USB dongle shown below, which is then plugged into my 3G Wi-Fi router. In due course I shall change to a direct SIM card insertion 3G/4G/LTE/Wi-Fi Machine to Machine (M2M) router. This is much easier then messing with a USB mobile broadband dongle and router or Mi-Fi units. A M2M router also gives more options such as DDNS, SSH, SFTP and HTTP access to the CCGX, which some of us need, and in fact may be used by more users in the future as other CCGX enhancements come on stream. I also like the mobile data connection ‘keep alive’ functionality of these routers. They are ideal for remote and mobile locations. There is an ongoing discussion on the various options in the blog post link below and its comments section, as to what may suit various users. Off-Grid Color Control GX to VRM Portal Connectivity Example installation This is my own BMV, CCGX installation on my boat. To the right of the picture you can see I have fitted a dual USB full power charging point for phones/tablets. There is also a cigar lighter socket too for my 12V Netbook. The units can be separated and used individually rather than in the mounting plate shown, if you wish. In the photo you will also notice at the top left a powered USB hub, which accepts and expands the capabilities of the CCGX for multiple BMVs or MPPT controllers, for example. It is a powered Anker USB 3.0 4-Port Hub. Unlike most powered hubs it can accept a 12V supply, so doing away with the mains transformer. CCGX on Victron Live By now, we trust most of you have discovered Victron Live. The links below are from the CCGX section. Manual Frequenty asked questions ModbusTCP frequently asked questions Further information on other products can be found in the Welcome to Victron Live start page . Your comments and questions are welcomed. John Rushworth

John Rushworth • 14 October 2014

Lithium Ion simplicity: New Lynx Ion + Shunt 350/600

Integrating components for any system results in simplification and smaller footprints. It’s better to have one smaller integrated unit than two larger ones with additional wiring. This is happily the case with the new combined Lynx Ion + Shunt 350A or 600A battery management system (BMS), which replaces the separate units of the Lynx Ion and the Lynx Shunt VE.Can . Not only that, but of course the new unit is easier to connect, takes up less space and even costs less. What’s not to like? Before getting into any further benefits, let’s first recap how the new Lynx Ion + Shunt fits into a complete Lithium Ion battery system. Lithium Ion (LiFePO4/LFP) battery system components One or multiple Victron 24V 180Ah Lithium-Ion batteries . The Lynx Power In , a modular DC bus bar. The Lynx Ion + Shunt is the battery management system (BMS) that controls the batteries. A 350 or 600 Ampere safety relay is inside the Lynx Ion + Shunt. The Lynx Distributor , a DC distribution system with locations for four DC fuses for several batteries. A waterproof Ion Control remote monitoring panel and/or optionally a Color Control GX for offsite monitoring via the VRM portal . Lynx Ion + Shunt benefits When compared to the previous separate units solution, the new Lynx Ion + Shunt has the following additional benefits. Previously the maximum current was 350A, If you needed to exceed that, then a complicated external relay was required. With the advent of the Lynx Ion + Shunt 600, this is no longer necessary. Several new features are also part of the Lynx Ion + Shunt. These are. Wire an external push button, and use the Lynx Ion as the main battery switch (SOC will be remembered while the system is off). Automatic recovery from a low voltage shutdown (see Lynx Ion – firmware changelog for details). Diagnostics: see the last four reasons for shutdown in the Ion Control and the Color Control. Sample Schematic Below is how a Lynx Ion + Shunt 600 fits into an integrated system. Note individually fused batteries. Additional notes Any connected MPPT 150/70 and MPPT 150/85’s and also Skylla-i’s will be controlled via VE.Can, so it is no longer necessary to wire special allow-to-charge wires to these products, or use Cyrix-Li-Loads for them. Multis do still need an allow-to-charge and allow-to-discharge wire, and an Assistant needs to be installed in the Multi. Conclusion The Lynx components of a Victron Lithium Ion total battery system solution makes for a very easy installation, and is in fact a lot less complex than other systems due to the experience and insights Victron have embraced over the last few years with LiFePO4/LFP technologies. With such experience and by developing battery systems with a modular and integrated approach, in this rapidly developing market, Victron design has resulted in many contented customers. Not hearing from customers that have installed our systems can only mean one thing. Happy customers! In introducing the two new Lynx Ion + Shunts, we trust that continues. John Rushworth

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Matthijs Vader • 17 September 2014

MultiCompacts improved: faster switching to grid

The hardware in our MultiCompact inverter/charger range has been improved: it can now switch much faster from inverter mode to mains mode. Combined with our high peak power ratings, this makes it possible to switch to mains mode before shutting down in an inverter overload alarm. This is especially useful in Self-consumption Hub-1 and 2 installations: it allows using an inverter/charger with a nameplate power below the system power. The old hardware will take approximately 8.5 seconds to switch from inverter- to charger-mode, the new hardware can do it within half a second. Some notes: single phase installations will be even faster than the half a second mentioned; fast switching is only possible in the 3xx firmware versions. The difference between 3xx on one hand, and 1xx and 2xx on the other hand is approximately another 0.5 second in the worst case scenario: slightly differing frequency, and inverter being 180 degrees out of sync with the grid; all larger models, 3kVA and upwards, already have fast-switching since a long time; do not forget the other limit to using an ‘undersized’ Multi Compact in an installation: the AC transfer capacity. Max system load may never exceed the transfer switch capacity; the load-shedding functions in the self-consumption hub-1 and 2 Assistants give options to further undersize a Multi Compact: use an external relay which is controlled via the Auxiliary output; mentioned switching delays have not been measured exactly; for parallel and three-phase operation, please check the Disqus comments below. Lots of little details, but all together the conclusion is that this significantly reduces the chance of a Victron switching off in overload condition. Availability Because of stock and production logistics, it will be a while before all different models are shipping with the new hardware. Below table gives an overview of the current situation, from our main warehouse DSV in the Netherlands. The column serial shows from which serial number onwards this change has been implemented. And the column Shipping @ DSV shows if the new version is already being shipped from DSV. If you require a model that is not yet shipping as such from DSV, this is possible at an extra cost of EUR 50,= per unit. Part nr. Part name Serial Shipping @ DSV CMP128010000 MultiPlus C 12/800/35-16 230V Inverter/Charger combi. HQ1428 Yes CMP121220000 MultiPlus C 12/1200/50-16 230V Inverter/Charger combi. HQ1420 Yes CMP121620000 MultiPlus C 12/1600/70-16 230V Inverter/Charger combi. HQ1422 Yes CMP122020000 MultiPlus C 12/2000/80-30 – 230V Inverter/Charger combi. HQ1422 Yes CMP122020100 MultiPlus C 12/2000/80-50 – 120V Inverter/Charger combi. HQ1423 Not yet CMP248010000 MultiPlus C 24/800/16-16 230V Inverter/Charger combi. HQ1429 Yes CMP241220000 MultiPlus C 24/1200/25-16 230V Inverter/Charger combi. HQ1425 Yes CMP242020000 MultiPlus C 24/2000/50-30 – 230V Inverter/Charger combi. HQ1424 Not yet CMP242020100 MultiPlus C 24/2000/50-50 – 120V Inverter/Charger combi. HQ1434 Yes CMP241620000 MultiPlus C 24/1600/40-16 230V Inverter/Charger combi. HQ1421 Yes CEP121621000 EasySolar 12/1600/70-16 MPPT 100/50 Inv./Solar Charg. combi HQ1420 Yes CEP241621010 EasySolar 24/1600/40-16 MPPT 100/50 Inv./Solar-Charg. combi HQ1422 Yes Table last updated 20 november 2014 Matthijs Vader

John Rushworth • 12 August 2014

New Battery Balancer launched: Not all batteries are created equal

Not all batteries are created equal. When using a series string or series/parallel bank to create differing voltages and Ah ratings from individual 12 Volt batteries, we can end up with a variance in terminal voltages on each battery, which causes the batteries to become unbalanced. This situation is often made even worse by the seemingly ever increasing demands on batteries, to run power hungry equipment. The consequence of all this is that an expensive string or bank can fail prematurely, which is costly in both time and money. How to control battery imbalance? Enter the new Victron Battery Balancer . This recently launched product is the result of Victron’s extensive experience and the knowledge gained whilst working with both conventional and lithium batteries, in both series strings and series/parallel banks. Monitor and Maintain Earlier this year the new BMV 700 series of battery monitors were launched. Amongst the many new features is the ability, with the BMV-702 model, to monitor midpoint voltage deviation. Clearly the next stage was not to simply monitor, but also to balance and actively correct any voltage deviation. With the advent of the BMV-702 and the new Battery Balancer, there is now a comprehensive solution to monitoring and maintaining your batteries, in tip-top condition. Note that both products can be used individually if on a budget, however using both gives the most insight and control. Technical Information Here is a precis concerning mid-point voltage deviation and how that can create a battery string/bank imbalance. Midpoint deviation may well be small when the battery bank is at rest, but will increase: a) at the end of the bulk phase during charging (the voltage of well charged cells will increase rapidly while lagging cells still need more charging) b) when discharging the battery bank until the voltage of the weakest cells starts to decrease rapidly, and c) at high charge and discharge rates. Note that, a midpoint deviation of only 2% will result in overcharging the top battery and undercharging the bottom battery. This is why it is important to monitor midpoint voltages and correct any imbalance, to ensure the best performance and longevity of battery strings and banks; be they 24 V, 48 V or sometimes higher voltages. For an in depth look at batteries and charging see the free book, Energy Unlimited at: https://www.victronenergy.com/orderbook John Rushworth

John Rushworth • 18 April 2014

EasySolar: The new all-in-one solar power solution

The new products just keep on coming . Welcome to EasySolar, the recently announced all-in-one solar power solution; combining an ultra-fast MPPT solar charge controller, an inverter/charger and AC distribution, all in one enclosure – with the minimum of wiring. What’s not to like! Inside the enclosure BlueSolar MPPT 75/50 : up to three strings of PV panels can be connected with three sets of MC4 (PV-ST01) PV connectors. In case you missed it, don’t forget Bob Hopman’s blog featuring a really handy spreadsheet. It makes the correct matching of solar modules to MPPT charge controllers easy! EasyPlus inverter/charger: EasyPlus 12/1600/70 or 24/1600/40 Note: EasySolar using the EasyPlus 24/1600/40 is available now and the EasyPlus 12/1600/70 version in June. The MPPT charge controller and the EasyPlus inverter/charger share the DC battery cables (included). The batteries can be charged with solar power (BlueSolar MPPT) and/or with AC power (inverter/charger) from the utility grid or a genset. AC distribution : consists of an RCD and four AC outputs protected by circuit breakers. One output is controlled by the AC input and will switch on only when AC is available. An additional fuse box is no longer needed. EasySolar also combines the familiar Victron PowerAssist technology; protecting the utility or generator supply from being overloaded, by adding extra inverter power when needed. We hope you like EasySolar. I certainly do and would have chosen this over separate units, when updating my boat systems recently. If I could have read minds at Victron R&D, I’d have waited for EasySolar. The good news is – you don’t have to! Interactive grid or stand-alone solar power applications: as easy as 1-2-3, with EasySolar. John Rushworth

John Rushworth • 12 January 2014

BMV-702 insights

Matthijs recently sent me the new BMV-702 for evaluation. What immediately excites me, is the option to integrate the new features of the 702 with a Color Control GX for enhanced monitoring of my onboard systems, using the VRM site. For now though, I’ve fitted the 702 to my boat and discovered lots of functional and operational improvements, compared to my older 600S. Here are some of my insights into the new 700 series. Firstly, and I think importantly, the 700, 702 and 700H all retain the same dimensions and style of the BMV-600S series, along with the familiar Victron packaging. The physical installation is just like the 600S, so it was quick to change out the display. My shunt though, was very awkward to get to. Thankfully the BMV-600S series shunts and PCBs are compatible with the BMV-700 and 702 displays, so there was no need to fit the new shunt that came with the unit. Here is a photo of my 702 installed. Apologies for the mobile phone camera image quality. High resolution Victron images of the new 700 series are here . The new setup wizard with scrolling text was straightforward enough. Once I’d changed the default battery capacity of 200 Ah to 260 for my bank, I started to check out the new readings and options. Here is what I’ve learned. Ease of Operation and Setup By changing the way the buttons and menu works, operation is now easier. The use of scrolling text for the setup and history menus, simplifies matters. Now, you need no longer remember the meaning of H1, H2, H3 etc. The BMV-700 Series will first let the name of the chosen item scroll by, and then show you the value. For the more familiar user, the scrolling text can be skipped by pressing one of the buttons. Improved Information The read-out now includes Watts in addition to the basic information of Volts, Amps, Amp Hours, State of Charge and Time To Go. A SOC bar is also included in the bottom right of the read-out as you can see in my photo above. At the top left of the screen, in text, the display also shows which value you are monitoring. In this case it is my ‘Main’ propulsion bank. There are two new historical values also: total kWh discharged and kWh charged. I particularly like the new instant Watts read-out. Now I can compare power used with actual boat speed. I use electric propulsion on my boat. This is a handy feature and saves me doing sums in my head! My old 600S can now be used for an inverter bank I intend to fit. In the meantime it’ll come in handy for monitoring the battery for my electric outboard for my dinghy. Waste not, want not. Increased Options The BMV-602 had just one function for the secondary voltage: starter battery voltage. Now the BMV-702 has a choice of one of three things it can do with the second input: measure starter voltage measure mid-voltage (and give a warning if the battery string is getting out of balance) measure the battery temperature Note, this last one requires a temperature sensor accessory, which has to be purchased separately. These modes also come with their own readouts and additional history values In my case, with multiple 12V batteries in series, I think the midpoint voltage monitoring will be of most value. Why jeopardize your not insignificant investment in batteries for the sake of the price of a good battery monitor? If a cell or a battery is going down, now you can be alerted with an alarm and take action. Personally I think my BMV easily pays for itself with these new monitoring options. So those are my principal insights into the BMV-700 series. Below, I’ve listed all the differences. Key Enhancements • Improved LCD Read-Out • Simpler Operation and Setup • Retention of History Data • SOC Indicator Bar • Calculates Watts • Computes kWh Charged and Discharged • Temperature Monitoring (BMV-702) • Mid String Voltage Monitoring (BMV-702) • Auxiliary/Starter Battery Monitoring (BMV-702) • VE.Direct Communications Port • Relay Invert Function • Same Price Models BMV-700 (R) BMV-702 (R) BMV-702 Black (R) BMV-700H Functional and Operational Improvements Clearer LCD Read-Out The segments are bolder and larger, utilizing two LEDs for the backlight instead of one. By using a different LCD technology, this has increased the contrast. Whilst the changes are subtle, they make a tangible difference. The backlight now has the choice of an always on function, if desired, for low light conditions. Retention of History Data The memory of the history data is no longer lost with a loss of power to the monitor. The BMV-600 would lose all history data (H1 to H16) in such an instance. This is no longer the case with the BMV-700. Integration with other Victron Products Using the free Victron Remote Management (VRM) website portal, integrated system information via a Color Control GX can display your current system status and energy flow. The site is accessible via a web browser or by using the free iPhone and Android apps. VRM Website – https://vrm.victronenergy.com/ iPhone VRM App – https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/vrm/id658834560?mt=8 Android devices https://www.victronenergy.com/support-and-downloads/software#victron-vrm-app Other Improvements The data connection on the back is now a proper socket, instead of a pin-header and can only be fitted one way. The new communications protocol is called the VE.Direct protocol which improves on the old BMV or text protocol, allowing the advanced ability to change settings, such as the programmable relay switching on and off. Note. All future small form factor Victron Products that are too small for a VE.Can Communications Port will use the new VE.Direct Communications Port, as now fitted to the BMV-700 series and MPPT 70/15 and 75/50. Documentation BMV-700 Series – https://www.victronenergy.com/battery-monitors/bmv700/ I hope the above helps. If you have any queries, before you take delivery of your new stock, feel free to question us here. John Rushworth

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