Links to the parts & pieces in the video (affiliate links) ------------------------------------ Victron 48V MultiPlus-II 5kVA 120V Inverter www.currentconnected.com/product/victron-48v-multiplus-2-5kva-120v-inverter-70a-charger/?ref=AzzpK9Fl 10kVA 120/240v Base MultiPlus-II System www.currentconnected.com/product/10kva-120-240v-multiplus-2-5kva/?ref=AzzpK9Fl Victron VE.Bus to USB - MK3-USB Interface Configuration Tool www.currentconnected.com/product/victron-interface-mk3-usb-configuration-tool/?ref=AzzpK9Fl Victron Cerbo GX www.currentconnected.com/product/victron-cerbo-gx-system-controller/?ref=AzzpK9Fl Victron GX Touch 7" Display www.currentconnected.com/product/gx-touch-display-cerbo-gx/?ref=AzzpK9Fl
That’s cool it’s functioning as you’d want now. The cerbo is such a nice display. I gotta say I’d probably be lost cycling through some of those options on the computer. But then again, once it was set I probably wouldn’t need to do anything else with it.
wow, they really need to work on that software. I used to run the HVAC systems for a school district fifteen years ago and the software I used back then was less confusing and more modern than this is. Right off the top of my head that software looks like something the average DIY'er is going to have trouble dealing with. Thanks again for the videos!
I agree totally with your frustration. All I wanted to do was add some Victron batteries and thought the built in comms would be a plus. Instead it was a pain in the ass! Had to buy other equipment and still don’t have the full functionality from it as I expected. I know there is a convoluted history behind why this is so messed up but I think until they get their act together I wouldn’t recommend them over a Sol-Ark.
It’s taken some time but I’m starting to get used to the process since I’m using the VRM to download the files instead of wiring up the USB dongle. It looks like most of the functionality has been moved over to the Victron Connect app (except for assistants), but you still have to have a wired connection.
Adam, I recently discovered your channel and have enjoyed watching your system develop. I have a home critical loads backup Victron based system with 2 x 24/3000-70 Multipluses configured in split phase on a 24V battery system (22 kWh capacity) and went through many of the same experiences you have had. I use the Cerbo Generator start/stop settings on relay 1 connected to the Multiplus AUX relay and use assistants in the Multiplus to ignore AC In, based on specific battery SOC conditions and/or peak (Quiet) hours set in the Cerbo. Also, rather than turning the Multiplus battery charger off, I have found that by setting the Multiplus charger Absorption and Float voltages low (26.3V on my nominal 24V system) the Multiplus charger will maintain a base charge on the batteries of about 30% SOC, leaving plenty of room in my batteries to recharge from PV arrays (5400 watts total) once the sun comes up. Once the Solar charger controllers start raising the voltage above 26.3V, the Multiplus charger no longer contributes to charging the battery from AC In.
ADAM, GREAT THAT YOU ARE LEARNING YOUR SYSTEM AS YOU TWEAK IT! I ALSO WANT TO CONGRATULATE YOU ON THE PROFESSIONAL LOOKING INSTALLATION VERSUS YOUR FORMER WIRING BEES NEST. I GUESS YOU WILL EVENTUALLY PIPE NIPPLE DOWN INTO THE TROUGH TO HIDE ALL YOUR WIRES & KEEP THE PROFESSIONAL LEVEL OF CONSISTENCY. YOU SHOULD HAVE A BEFORE & AFTER PICTURE TO REMIND YOU OF YOUR ESS JOURNEY. THANKS FOR SHARING.
Under the ignore AC tab. The grid assist would be helpful if someone had a small battery bank and wanted to control the discharge on their batteries. 👍 very cool stuff, Adam
Thanks! Yeah I've actually seen that in action 1 time because I had some settings programmed incorrectly. The load exceeded the settings and the grid automatically connected to help cover the load. Was awesome to see!
I was about to buy the lead but eventually I found out how to do the upload from the Cerbo GX. Agreed the software is a bit historical looking but I figured it's for engineers and not end users.
Yeah once I figured out how to do it from the VRM, that’s what I’ve been using the most. Not as easy as it could be but definitely simpler than unplugging the Cerbo each time you wana make a change to the system.
This is a good new one for me and the MPII ... I will have to watch this a couple of times ... when pass through came on, the "house" was running on grid and the battery was being recharged by solar? ... no inverter charging them? hmm.. when fully charged it will be interesting to see it switch to battery only.. I have to on my thinking cap .. for sure.. thanks.. pat
Yeah so the MP turns on the grid relay when the SOC reaches 15%. Once the voltage gets up to 53V (or whatever the value in the vid was) the grid relay will disable and everything will be powered by the battery. Since I disabled the charger in the settings, there will be no grid charging at all. There area actually quite a few different ways to do this from what I've found. Currently I'm testing the Cerbo's generator start/stop function to perform this. It allows me to control the values from the Cerbo instead of having to change through the software. It also allows me to manually switch to the grid if I need to. Right now I'm working on a way to dynamically enable charging. Usually I only ever use it a couple times a year, but only when we have bad storms coming in and there's potential for the grid to go down and my batteries are already low.
Hey Adam, thanks for posting your videos, I just switched from Chinese inverters to Multiplus II because of the software. I am using Node Red within Venus OS and I got a script that enables my Venus OS (Raspi 4) to automatically switch from Inverter/charger to just Inverter at specific times of the day. I set my inverter to the ON position from 10a to 4pm to charge with the Multiplus during the sunny part of the day. Then at 4pm it automatically switches to "Inverter" only. This is so that my Victrons do not try to charge my batteries at peak rates.
I would suggest disabling the virtual switch and install the ESS assistant. Set it to Optimized, Enable limit inverter power and set to the required value. Then set minimum SOC % to 15%. ESS allows for more configurability of the system via the Cerbo.
Thanks for the tip. Yeah I knew there were a lot more ways than just the simple virtual switch. At the moment I’m testing using the Cerbo generator start/stop to control AC in. Good to know I can do this with ESS as well.
But ESS does not guarantee 0 feed to the grid. At some points, it will feed into the grid. I remember he doesn’t wand to feed into the grid. Just a thought.
I have a very similar setup as yours, initially I was using assistants but switched to Node-Red on the Cerbo as it offered more flexible trigger options for when to run from battery and when to run from the grid. Your confusion at how to go about programming was the same thing I went through, and thought the same thing, this should not be this hard. I think they are working towards having a unified programming through Victron Connect, but not sure how long that will take.
I’ve actually started testing using the generator start/stop on the Cerbo to control AC in. It lets me make changes to values from the Cerbo instead of the software. It does seem like they’re trying to move things to VC. It’s a smart move to have a single piece of software.
I had that setup at one point as well, and it worked pretty well, but still used one of the relays on the Cerbo and one AUX input on one of the Multiplus'. The Node-Red route is all software and requires no extra wiring. btw, did you see that there is a new firmware out that prioritizes solar/wind energy? I'm hoping to test it out here this week, hopefully it does what I think it should do and supply power to the inverter if the batteries are fully charged.@@AdamDeLay07
Ignore AC it’s a nice trigger for the grid assist. Ad second trigger “flag” that can smooth out the trigger conditions. Also the order you set them, it’s the order they will operate. Hope that makes sense.
Awsome stuff man,can You also put a video with the load test as well,so we can see,If your PC upses still act up,or if the lights are flickering when running Your dryer machine ?:) Nice video,i think You will find that the victron software is so much more advanced and nicer than what you had before with the EG4`s...and You set these once,than You dont need to touch it again,until You want something to change.They just work.
Hu , I have a mutiplus 2 48v 500 70 , it's tripping on a 10 amp 1500watt single phase motor , motor has no load on pulley , can I adjust parameters to help this , my ecofliw delta did run it most of the time
I look forward to seeing how you automate this, if you do. Are you planning to rely on the Victron software which I imagine is okay/fine or do you plan to try it with home assistant? I don't see support mentioned for Solar Assistant but I see plenty of people using Home Assistant.
Not sure if I’ll use home assistant or not. I know there’s no integration into Solar Assistant (except for the Smart Shunt), but the VRM is a lot like Solar Assistant.
Good luck! After the video, I did figure out that you can use the Victron Connect app on a mac to do most of the programming, just not any of the advanced customization (using assistants). You just have to have the Mk3 to USB device. I still have to do an update on that...
@@carlosreyes6448 Sorry, I've got several videos on the topic and this was one of the first ones I did. So in this video, it will switch over to Grid at 15% SOC and then it switches back to battery once the voltage has gotten to 53V for 5 minutes. I've since changed how I do this and I use the Cerbo to control it all. Much simpler: czcams.com/video/4ZsGHi8nKGc/video.html
I’m not sure these inverters are designed to run without batteries. The UPS feature allows you to run on grid and if the grid goes down, it will switch over to battery power.
@AdamDeLay07 Thanks for the response. When i discount battery power , inverter does not switch to AC input. What should I set to do this. Lifepo4 BMS stop discharging when the temperature is too low (sub zero)
@@goobiie I don’t believe you can change anything on the inverter to make this happen. I would look at creating some kind of an insulated space for the batteries to prevent them from ever getting that cold. Not sure what your scenario is but in the past I used an old chest freezer and a light bulb on a thermostat to keep my batteries warm when they were in my barn. czcams.com/video/dZUU9Rk77bk/video.html
@AdamDeLay07 one more question. Do you have any video to setup multiplus Ii to share power between battery and AC input. For example to run 4kw load take 2.5kw from battery and 1.5kw from grid
I had installed firmware v506 in my Multiplus II 112v/3000Va 120 and my AES settings just plainly do nothing .. The inverter will stay on. With the updated new VC connect and the extended settings (uses three letters as the password) ... It has the AC control, I have that set now to use solar or wind until the lower state of charge and then the AC charge will activate through a charge cycle, then shut off to battery invert mode .. until next lower state of charge reached. in the meant time the solar will charge when it can......... all that said, I've still not been able to get the AES to work in search (or any ) mode. Weird, ... I emailed the supplier support about it but know know how the Victron support seems to lack ... thanks again.. back to re - viewing this.. pb
Yeah, I haven't updated to the latest firmware version yet to try out the new Solar and Wind priority option. It's on my list of things to do though. I've never looked at AES because my loads never drop super low. There's always something running. What do you have your power threshold set for to trigger and release AES?
i just bought one of these,, and it wont work right out of the box,, i need a custom volt to run this,, my set up is 49.0 fully charged,, this thing just blinks at me saying my voltage is to low,,soooo i if i cant figure something out i just lost 2,000,it would cost a arm and a leg to send it back
It sounds like you need to get in to the VE Config software to be able to change the voltage range. I believe you could also use the Victron Connect app on your phone if you have an Android phone and a Mk3 to USB-C cable.
Adam, Great Video's! Did you ever figure out how to set the priority to us Solar & battery Not the utility and at 20% battery life to switch to your Utility, then charge the battery's at next light?? Wondering if on multiple cloudy days the Schedule could be used based on SOC of the battery's to switch to utility power to charge?? Thanks
Thanks! Yeah I did. So there's actually quite a few different ways I've found to do this. The simplest one is using the built-in "virtual switch" in the MultiPlus software (which is what's shown at the end of the video). That works, but it doesn't give me the ability to manually switch to grid mode if necessary. It's on my list to make a video of how I did this, but I ended up using the Relay 1 on the Cerbo and wired that to the Aux Input on the MP. I set up 2 programmable relay assistants based on the General Input flag. One for the "on" state and one for the "off" state. Then on the Cerbo, I set Relay 1 to be Generator Start/Stop and programmed my settings accordingly. It sounds complicated but it really isn't. Using the Generator Start/Stop on the Cerbo, I have the ability to change the SOC levels from the Cerbo instead of having to program with the MP software every time. Plus I can manually switch to grid using the Cerbo. I also ended up using Relay 2 on the Cerbo and Input 2 of the MP to let me control whether or not grid charging is enabled. That way if I know a storm is coming, I can just enable the relay on the cerbo and grid charging will start. Hope that helps.
Great, Looking forward to that video! I just powered my 2 MP-II 5K’s and 200amp Charge controller, 880watts of panels and 30kwatts of battery. Also used Constant Current. @@AdamDeLay07
Great setting Adam. whats the way to do the initial config via VRM? I guess connecting the multiplus to the serbo. connecting the serbo to the network, and go from there? can you add the multi plus to the VRM via the serbo without any initial config? connecting via bluetooth or to the local serbo wifi? just guessing here thanks!
Thanks! Assuming you already have your MP connected to your Cerbo and your Cerbo is live on the VRM, you would then go to "Device List" in the VRM and click "Remote VEConfigure". You can then download the configuration file for your MP and make your changes in the VE Config Software. Once your changes are saved (of which they auto-save when you close out of the software), you will upload the config in the same "Remote VEConfigure" area of the VRM. This way, you don't have to have the MK3 to USB cable connected to your MP inverters. You still do have to have a Windows computer with the VE Config Software loaded on it though. Yes, you can connect to the VRM with the base config, I just wouldn't try to turn on any loads or charge your batteries with the MP until you know you have your settings correct.
@@AdamDeLay07 awesome. yeah, I dont have anything yet. some parts are on its way. some still pending to order. but Im moonlining deep into research and putting all info together. that's why I send a thank you note to your OCD. I'm the same way. so, for what I see there, I do need the MK3 to USB anyway... (was trying to avoid it) my thinking was: what if I connect the Cerbo GX to my network. configure the VRM. connect the GX 50 panel to the cerbo. then physically connect the MP to the cerbo. maybe I can see it listed on VRM, and I can then either configure from there OR download a config file and then load it via victron connect over wifi / cerbo or something. having to buy a $75 MK3 to usb to configure all these seems crazy. wish they could have at least include an ethernet port with DHCP on the MP to connect directly via browser or something. or, being able to configure via cerbo wifi.
@@RaymondCidadMoser I think it's a great idea to do as much research as possible before pulling the trigger. It helps you know what you're getting yourself into. So I haven't had anything I've come across where I HAD to have the Mk3 to usb device. Supposedly there's some limitations of programming through the VRM but I haven't come across anything yet in all my testing. The only thing that comes to mind where you might need it is to initially set up the split phase configuration, but since my hardware all came from Current Connected, they did all that for me. So I guess it kinda depends on where you're getting your hardware from. I did find out later that you can use the Mk3 to USB device to program certain aspects of the system using the VictronConnect app (which can run on both Windows or Mac). I believe that Victron is working on converting everything over to that app, but some of the advanced config isn't available yet (assistants). Yeah, it would be nice for a more up-to-date way to program. Like I said, they're working on getting the VictronConnect app working. I'm guessing for their target market of RV and Marine, most people set things once and never touch them again, so they haven't really focused on the stationary installs. Hope this helps, and good luck on your own install!
@@mork4911 the thing with with and without the cable is the config options. is the same app (windows or macOS). but when you connect via wifi or bluethooth, the protocol is different. so it loads different info. even the setting page is different. without the cable: is to monitor, turn on/off. change status. stuff like that. you can also control the AC input (for RV if you connect to a residential 120v, you can limit to 15 amp for example) with the cable: is to configure every value on that thing: AC low/high voltage connect/disconnect. DC low disconnect/reconnect. AES mode. power assist and its factor. battery value details. etc. I hope they change this in the feature and allow at least wifi protocol to carry these data. for RV/boat industry, is a pain to have to go all the way down into the unit and connect a cable to change configs.
Performance wise, OH YEAH! Saving a lot of wasted power with less idle draw, 98% of flickering lights are gone, other things just work. Outside of the one time mentioned in the video, I haven’t once given any thought to what’s running before I turned something else on.
Victron IS a marine company :) Just people like to use them for their homes too.. Like i said : if it ain't dutch, it ain't much ;) Just hate the vendor lock in for their closed eco system
Links to the parts & pieces in the video (affiliate links)
------------------------------------
Victron 48V MultiPlus-II 5kVA 120V Inverter
www.currentconnected.com/product/victron-48v-multiplus-2-5kva-120v-inverter-70a-charger/?ref=AzzpK9Fl
10kVA 120/240v Base MultiPlus-II System
www.currentconnected.com/product/10kva-120-240v-multiplus-2-5kva/?ref=AzzpK9Fl
Victron VE.Bus to USB - MK3-USB Interface Configuration Tool
www.currentconnected.com/product/victron-interface-mk3-usb-configuration-tool/?ref=AzzpK9Fl
Victron Cerbo GX
www.currentconnected.com/product/victron-cerbo-gx-system-controller/?ref=AzzpK9Fl
Victron GX Touch 7" Display
www.currentconnected.com/product/gx-touch-display-cerbo-gx/?ref=AzzpK9Fl
That’s cool it’s functioning as you’d want now. The cerbo is such a nice display. I gotta say I’d probably be lost cycling through some of those options on the computer. But then again, once it was set I probably wouldn’t need to do anything else with it.
I would imagine most people wouldn’t touch the system ever again.
wow, they really need to work on that software. I used to run the HVAC systems for a school district fifteen years ago and the software I used back then was less confusing and more modern than this is. Right off the top of my head that software looks like something the average DIY'er is going to have trouble dealing with.
Thanks again for the videos!
Looking forward to seeing your next Multiplus II video. I just set up one and I'm loving power assist. Thanks for the tutorials.
I agree totally with your frustration. All I wanted to do was add some Victron batteries and thought the built in comms would be a plus. Instead it was a pain in the ass! Had to buy other equipment and still don’t have the full functionality from it as I expected. I know there is a convoluted history behind why this is so messed up but I think until they get their act together I wouldn’t recommend them over a Sol-Ark.
It’s taken some time but I’m starting to get used to the process since I’m using the VRM to download the files instead of wiring up the USB dongle. It looks like most of the functionality has been moved over to the Victron Connect app (except for assistants), but you still have to have a wired connection.
Adam, I recently discovered your channel and have enjoyed watching your system develop. I have a home critical loads backup Victron based system with 2 x 24/3000-70 Multipluses configured in split phase on a 24V battery system (22 kWh capacity) and went through many of the same experiences you have had. I use the Cerbo Generator start/stop settings on relay 1 connected to the Multiplus AUX relay and use assistants in the Multiplus to ignore AC In, based on specific battery SOC conditions and/or peak (Quiet) hours set in the Cerbo. Also, rather than turning the Multiplus battery charger off, I have found that by setting the Multiplus charger Absorption and Float voltages low (26.3V on my nominal 24V system) the Multiplus charger will maintain a base charge on the batteries of about 30% SOC, leaving plenty of room in my batteries to recharge from PV arrays (5400 watts total) once the sun comes up. Once the Solar charger controllers start raising the voltage above 26.3V, the Multiplus charger no longer contributes to charging the battery from AC In.
Thanks Bruce!
That’s a great idea to leave the charger voltage low to give you a minimum voltage.
ADAM, GREAT THAT YOU ARE LEARNING YOUR SYSTEM AS YOU TWEAK IT!
I ALSO WANT TO CONGRATULATE YOU ON THE PROFESSIONAL LOOKING INSTALLATION VERSUS YOUR FORMER WIRING BEES NEST.
I GUESS YOU WILL EVENTUALLY PIPE NIPPLE DOWN INTO THE TROUGH TO HIDE ALL YOUR WIRES & KEEP THE PROFESSIONAL LEVEL OF CONSISTENCY.
YOU SHOULD HAVE A BEFORE & AFTER PICTURE TO REMIND YOU OF YOUR ESS JOURNEY.
THANKS FOR SHARING.
Thanks! Yeah, still working on figuring out some of the final wiring.
Under the ignore AC tab. The grid assist would be helpful if someone had a small battery bank and wanted to control the discharge on their batteries. 👍 very cool stuff, Adam
Thanks! Yeah I've actually seen that in action 1 time because I had some settings programmed incorrectly. The load exceeded the settings and the grid automatically connected to help cover the load. Was awesome to see!
@@AdamDeLay07 that is awesome!
Great help. Just bought Multi plus II and looked for configuration for 48V Solar system. 23:19
I was about to buy the lead but eventually I found out how to do the upload from the Cerbo GX.
Agreed the software is a bit historical looking but I figured it's for engineers and not end users.
Yeah once I figured out how to do it from the VRM, that’s what I’ve been using the most. Not as easy as it could be but definitely simpler than unplugging the Cerbo each time you wana make a change to the system.
This is a good new one for me and the MPII ... I will have to watch this a couple of times ... when pass through came on, the "house" was running on grid and the battery was being recharged by solar? ... no inverter charging them? hmm.. when fully charged it will be interesting to see it switch to battery only.. I have to on my thinking cap .. for sure.. thanks.. pat
Yeah so the MP turns on the grid relay when the SOC reaches 15%. Once the voltage gets up to 53V (or whatever the value in the vid was) the grid relay will disable and everything will be powered by the battery. Since I disabled the charger in the settings, there will be no grid charging at all.
There area actually quite a few different ways to do this from what I've found. Currently I'm testing the Cerbo's generator start/stop function to perform this. It allows me to control the values from the Cerbo instead of having to change through the software. It also allows me to manually switch to the grid if I need to.
Right now I'm working on a way to dynamically enable charging. Usually I only ever use it a couple times a year, but only when we have bad storms coming in and there's potential for the grid to go down and my batteries are already low.
Hey Adam, thanks for posting your videos, I just switched from Chinese inverters to Multiplus II because of the software. I am using Node Red within Venus OS and I got a script that enables my Venus OS (Raspi 4) to automatically switch from Inverter/charger to just Inverter at specific times of the day. I set my inverter to the ON position from 10a to 4pm to charge with the Multiplus during the sunny part of the day. Then at 4pm it automatically switches to "Inverter" only. This is so that my Victrons do not try to charge my batteries at peak rates.
That's awesome! Yeah, NodeRed is on my list of things to take a look at. Love the customization options!
I would suggest disabling the virtual switch and install the ESS assistant. Set it to Optimized, Enable limit inverter power and set to the required value. Then set minimum SOC % to 15%.
ESS allows for more configurability of the system via the Cerbo.
Thanks for the tip. Yeah I knew there were a lot more ways than just the simple virtual switch. At the moment I’m testing using the Cerbo generator start/stop to control AC in. Good to know I can do this with ESS as well.
But ESS does not guarantee 0 feed to the grid. At some points, it will feed into the grid. I remember he doesn’t wand to feed into the grid. Just a thought.
I have a very similar setup as yours, initially I was using assistants but switched to Node-Red on the Cerbo as it offered more flexible trigger options for when to run from battery and when to run from the grid.
Your confusion at how to go about programming was the same thing I went through, and thought the same thing, this should not be this hard.
I think they are working towards having a unified programming through Victron Connect, but not sure how long that will take.
I’ve actually started testing using the generator start/stop on the Cerbo to control AC in. It lets me make changes to values from the Cerbo instead of the software.
It does seem like they’re trying to move things to VC. It’s a smart move to have a single piece of software.
I had that setup at one point as well, and it worked pretty well, but still used one of the relays on the Cerbo and one AUX input on one of the Multiplus'. The Node-Red route is all software and requires no extra wiring.
btw, did you see that there is a new firmware out that prioritizes solar/wind energy? I'm hoping to test it out here this week, hopefully it does what I think it should do and supply power to the inverter if the batteries are fully charged.@@AdamDeLay07
Ignore AC it’s a nice trigger for the grid assist. Ad second trigger “flag” that can smooth out the trigger conditions. Also the order you set them, it’s the order they will operate. Hope that makes sense.
I’m assuming your taking about the assistants?
@@AdamDeLay07 no assistant, same as you set the “ ignore AC “, there is the “flag “ as well, sometimes used to start generator.
@@aureltanasan1413 Gotcha. Boy it seems like each day I'm learning another new way to ignore the AC In. I think right now I'm up to 5 different ways.
Awsome stuff man,can You also put a video with the load test as well,so we can see,If your PC upses still act up,or if the lights are flickering when running Your dryer machine ?:) Nice video,i think You will find that the victron software is so much more advanced and nicer than what you had before with the EG4`s...and You set these once,than You dont need to touch it again,until You want something to change.They just work.
Thanks!
I’ve got a long list of videos to make now that the build stuff is done.
@@AdamDeLay07 will be watching!:)
Hu , I have a mutiplus 2 48v 500 70 , it's tripping on a 10 amp 1500watt single phase motor , motor has no load on pulley , can I adjust parameters to help this , my ecofliw delta did run it most of the time
Do you have some kind of discharge limitation set in the inverter? Do you have it tied to grid or batteries?
I look forward to seeing how you automate this, if you do. Are you planning to rely on the Victron software which I imagine is okay/fine or do you plan to try it with home assistant? I don't see support mentioned for Solar Assistant but I see plenty of people using Home Assistant.
Not sure if I’ll use home assistant or not. I know there’s no integration into Solar Assistant (except for the Smart Shunt), but the VRM is a lot like Solar Assistant.
Is it possible to set 58.4V for charging lifepo4?
Yes you can. The settings actually allow for going up to 64v to handle different chemistries.
I am about to tackle this with a MacBook. Wish me luck.
Good luck!
After the video, I did figure out that you can use the Victron Connect app on a mac to do most of the programming, just not any of the advanced customization (using assistants). You just have to have the Mk3 to USB device.
I still have to do an update on that...
Hey adam, so when you're battery bank. Went down to 15% the grid took over the loads. And the charge was coming from you're pv?
Yes. Then it switches back once the battery is charged up to 30%.
@@AdamDeLay07 oh ok, so how did you set the value. To 30%
@@carlosreyes6448 Sorry, I've got several videos on the topic and this was one of the first ones I did.
So in this video, it will switch over to Grid at 15% SOC and then it switches back to battery once the voltage has gotten to 53V for 5 minutes.
I've since changed how I do this and I use the Cerbo to control it all. Much simpler: czcams.com/video/4ZsGHi8nKGc/video.html
I really appreciate your help, Adam. This is the same type of setup. That I'm wanting to do. I love victron it's my favorite.
@@carlosreyes6448 glad to be able to help!
HI Adam, With this settings UPS functionality does not work. When I disconnect the battery power it does not switch to main power. Any idea?
I’m not sure these inverters are designed to run without batteries. The UPS feature allows you to run on grid and if the grid goes down, it will switch over to battery power.
@AdamDeLay07 Thanks for the response. When i discount battery power , inverter does not switch to AC input. What should I set to do this. Lifepo4 BMS stop discharging when the temperature is too low (sub zero)
@@goobiie I don’t believe you can change anything on the inverter to make this happen. I would look at creating some kind of an insulated space for the batteries to prevent them from ever getting that cold. Not sure what your scenario is but in the past I used an old chest freezer and a light bulb on a thermostat to keep my batteries warm when they were in my barn.
czcams.com/video/dZUU9Rk77bk/video.html
@AdamDeLay07 This is not going to help. When you insulate the cells, these will get very warm on summer time.
@AdamDeLay07 one more question. Do you have any video to setup multiplus Ii to share power between battery and AC input. For example to run 4kw load take 2.5kw from battery and 1.5kw from grid
I had installed firmware v506 in my Multiplus II 112v/3000Va 120 and my AES settings just plainly do nothing .. The inverter will stay on. With the updated new VC connect and the extended settings (uses three letters as the password) ... It has the AC control, I have that set now to use solar or wind until the lower state of charge and then the AC charge will activate through a charge cycle, then shut off to battery invert mode .. until next lower state of charge reached. in the meant time the solar will charge when it can......... all that said, I've still not been able to get the AES to work in search (or any ) mode. Weird, ... I emailed the supplier support about it but know know how the Victron support seems to lack ... thanks again.. back to re - viewing this.. pb
Yeah, I haven't updated to the latest firmware version yet to try out the new Solar and Wind priority option. It's on my list of things to do though.
I've never looked at AES because my loads never drop super low. There's always something running. What do you have your power threshold set for to trigger and release AES?
i just bought one of these,, and it wont work right out of the box,, i need a custom volt to run this,, my set up is 49.0 fully charged,, this thing just blinks at me saying my voltage is to low,,soooo i if i cant figure something out i just lost 2,000,it would cost a arm and a leg to send it back
It sounds like you need to get in to the VE Config software to be able to change the voltage range.
I believe you could also use the Victron Connect app on your phone if you have an Android phone and a Mk3 to USB-C cable.
Adam,
Great Video's! Did you ever figure out how to set the priority to us Solar & battery Not the utility and at 20% battery life to switch to your Utility, then charge the battery's at next light??
Wondering if on multiple cloudy days the Schedule could be used based on SOC of the battery's to switch to utility power to charge??
Thanks
Thanks!
Yeah I did. So there's actually quite a few different ways I've found to do this. The simplest one is using the built-in "virtual switch" in the MultiPlus software (which is what's shown at the end of the video). That works, but it doesn't give me the ability to manually switch to grid mode if necessary.
It's on my list to make a video of how I did this, but I ended up using the Relay 1 on the Cerbo and wired that to the Aux Input on the MP. I set up 2 programmable relay assistants based on the General Input flag. One for the "on" state and one for the "off" state. Then on the Cerbo, I set Relay 1 to be Generator Start/Stop and programmed my settings accordingly.
It sounds complicated but it really isn't. Using the Generator Start/Stop on the Cerbo, I have the ability to change the SOC levels from the Cerbo instead of having to program with the MP software every time. Plus I can manually switch to grid using the Cerbo.
I also ended up using Relay 2 on the Cerbo and Input 2 of the MP to let me control whether or not grid charging is enabled. That way if I know a storm is coming, I can just enable the relay on the cerbo and grid charging will start.
Hope that helps.
Great,
Looking forward to that video!
I just powered my 2 MP-II 5K’s and 200amp Charge controller, 880watts of panels and 30kwatts of battery. Also used Constant Current.
@@AdamDeLay07
8800 watts
@@jwl944 I don’t follow
I missed the 0 from earlier post of 880 watts@@AdamDeLay07
Great setting Adam.
whats the way to do the initial config via VRM?
I guess connecting the multiplus to the serbo. connecting the serbo to the network, and go from there?
can you add the multi plus to the VRM via the serbo without any initial config?
connecting via bluetooth or to the local serbo wifi?
just guessing here
thanks!
Thanks!
Assuming you already have your MP connected to your Cerbo and your Cerbo is live on the VRM, you would then go to "Device List" in the VRM and click "Remote VEConfigure". You can then download the configuration file for your MP and make your changes in the VE Config Software. Once your changes are saved (of which they auto-save when you close out of the software), you will upload the config in the same "Remote VEConfigure" area of the VRM.
This way, you don't have to have the MK3 to USB cable connected to your MP inverters. You still do have to have a Windows computer with the VE Config Software loaded on it though.
Yes, you can connect to the VRM with the base config, I just wouldn't try to turn on any loads or charge your batteries with the MP until you know you have your settings correct.
@@AdamDeLay07 awesome.
yeah, I dont have anything yet.
some parts are on its way. some still pending to order.
but Im moonlining deep into research and putting all info together.
that's why I send a thank you note to your OCD. I'm the same way.
so, for what I see there, I do need the MK3 to USB anyway... (was trying to avoid it)
my thinking was: what if I connect the Cerbo GX to my network. configure the VRM.
connect the GX 50 panel to the cerbo.
then physically connect the MP to the cerbo.
maybe I can see it listed on VRM, and I can then either configure from there OR download a config file and then load it via victron connect over wifi / cerbo or something.
having to buy a $75 MK3 to usb to configure all these seems crazy.
wish they could have at least include an ethernet port with DHCP on the MP to connect directly via browser or something.
or, being able to configure via cerbo wifi.
@@RaymondCidadMoser I think it's a great idea to do as much research as possible before pulling the trigger. It helps you know what you're getting yourself into.
So I haven't had anything I've come across where I HAD to have the Mk3 to usb device. Supposedly there's some limitations of programming through the VRM but I haven't come across anything yet in all my testing.
The only thing that comes to mind where you might need it is to initially set up the split phase configuration, but since my hardware all came from Current Connected, they did all that for me. So I guess it kinda depends on where you're getting your hardware from.
I did find out later that you can use the Mk3 to USB device to program certain aspects of the system using the VictronConnect app (which can run on both Windows or Mac). I believe that Victron is working on converting everything over to that app, but some of the advanced config isn't available yet (assistants).
Yeah, it would be nice for a more up-to-date way to program. Like I said, they're working on getting the VictronConnect app working. I'm guessing for their target market of RV and Marine, most people set things once and never touch them again, so they haven't really focused on the stationary installs.
Hope this helps, and good luck on your own install!
Any chance of a video showing how to config MP via VRM without that cable?
@@mork4911 the thing with with and without the cable is the config options. is the same app (windows or macOS). but when you connect via wifi or bluethooth, the protocol is different. so it loads different info. even the setting page is different.
without the cable: is to monitor, turn on/off. change status. stuff like that. you can also control the AC input (for RV if you connect to a residential 120v, you can limit to 15 amp for example)
with the cable: is to configure every value on that thing: AC low/high voltage connect/disconnect. DC low disconnect/reconnect. AES mode. power assist and its factor. battery value details. etc.
I hope they change this in the feature and allow at least wifi protocol to carry these data. for RV/boat industry, is a pain to have to go all the way down into the unit and connect a cable to change configs.
Are you happy with the rest of the performance
Performance wise, OH YEAH! Saving a lot of wasted power with less idle draw, 98% of flickering lights are gone, other things just work. Outside of the one time mentioned in the video, I haven’t once given any thought to what’s running before I turned something else on.
@@AdamDeLay07 sounds like minimal issues and complaints yet
@@royamberg9177 so far, definitely!
Not sure but I think you can set it up with Android phone
You can change a few settings with an android phone. Basically the same settings you can change with the VRM or the Cerbo.
@@AdamDeLay07 not totally formilure with that equipment but looks like it's going to work
Its quite simple!! Victron needs to move away from their old ways and actually do some innovation. Tech is supposed to make things simple.
It'll be interesting to see if they end up moving everything over to Victron Connect.
Victron IS a marine company :)
Just people like to use them for their homes too..
Like i said : if it ain't dutch, it ain't much ;)
Just hate the vendor lock in for their closed eco system
Thanks.