Victron energy EasySolar 12 1600, EasySolar 24 1600 User Manual

Manual

EN

Handleiding

NL

Manuel

FR

Anleitung

DE

Manual

ES

Appendix

EasySolar

12 | 1600 | 70-16 230V MPPT 100 | 50
24 | 1600 | 40-16 230V MPPT 100 | 50

1

EN NL FR DE ES Appendix

1. SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

General

Please familiarize yourself with the safety features and instruct i ons by first reading the
documentation supplied with this product before using the equipment. This product has
been designed and tested in accordance with international standards. The equipment
must be used exclusively for the purpose for which it was designed.

WARNING: ELECTRIC SHOCK HAZARD.

The product is used in conjunction with a permanent energy source (battery). Input and/or
output terminals may still be dangerously energized, even when the equipment is
switched off. Always switch off the AC supply and the battery before carrying out
maintenance or servicing the product.

The product has no internal user-serviceable components. Do not remove the front plate
or operate the product if any panels have been removed. All servicing must be
undertaken by qualified personnel.

Never use the product where there is a risk of gas or dust explosions. Consult the battery
manufacturer's information to ascertain that the product is i ntended for use i n conjunction
with the battery. Always comply with the battery manufacturer's safety instructions.

WARNING: Do not lift heavy loads without assistance.

Installation

Read the installation instructions in the installati on manual before instal ling t he equipment.
This is a Safety Class I product (supplied with a protective grounding terminal).

Uninterruptible protective grounding must be provided at the AC input and/or output
terminals. Alternatively the grounding point located externally on the product may be
used. Whenever it is likely that the grounding protection has been damaged, the product must

be turned off and secured against unintended operation; please contact qualif i ed service staff .
Ensure that the DC and AC input cables are fused and fitted with circuit breakers. Never

replace a safety component with a different type. Consult the manual to determine the correct
component.

Before applying power, ensure that the available power source matches the configurati on
settings of the product as described in the manual.

2

Ensure that the equipment is used under the correct ambient conditions. Never operate the
product in a wet or dusty environment. Ensure there is adequate free space for ventilation
around the product and check that the ventilation vents are not blocked.

Ensure that the required system voltage does not exceed the product's capacity.

Transport and Storage

Ensure that the mains power and battery cables have been disconnected before storing or
transporting the product.

No liability can be accepted for any transport damage if the equipment is shipped in non­original packaging.

Store the product in a dry environment; the storage temperature must be between -40°C and
60°C.

Consult the battery manufacturer's manual in respect of transport, storage, charging,
recharging and disposal of the battery.

2. DESCRIPTION

2.1 General

All-in-one solar power solution

The EasySolar combines a MPPT solar charge controller, an inverter/charger and AC
distribution in one enclosure.
The product is easy to install, with a minimum of wiring.

Solar charge controller: BlueSolar MPPT 100/50

Up to three strings of PV panels can be connected with three sets of MC4 (PV-ST01) PV
connectors.

Inverter/charger: MultiPlus Compact 12/1600/ 70 or 24/1600/40

The MPPT charge controller and the MultiP l us inverter/ charger share the DC battery cables
(included). The batteries can be charged with solar power (MPPT) and/or with AC power
(inverter/charger) from the utility grid or a genset.

AC distribution

The AC distribution consists of a RCD (30mA/16A) and four AC outputs protected by two 10A
and two 16A circuit breakers.
One 16A output is controlled by the AC input: it will switch on only when AC is available.

PowerAssist

Unique PowerAssist technology protects the utility or generator supply from being overloaded
by adding extra inverter power when needed.

3

EN NL FR DE ES Appendix

2.2 Inverter

MultiPlus Compact-functional

The MultiPlus Compact gets its name from the multiple functions it can perform. It is a
powerful true sine wave inverter, a sophisticated battery charger that features adaptive
charge technology and a high-speed AC transfer switch in a single compact enclosure.
Beside these primary functions, however, the MultiPlus Compact has several advanced
features that provide a range of new applications as outlined below.

Uninterrupted AC power

In the event of a grid failure, or shore or generator power being disconnected, the inverter
within the MultiPlus Compact is automatically activated and takes over supply to the
connected loads. This happens so fast (less than 20 milliseconds) that computers and
other electronic equipment will continue to operate without disrupt i on.

PowerControl – Dealing with limited generator or shore side power

With a Multi Control Panel a maximum generator or shore current can be set. The
MultiPlus Compact will then take account of other AC loads and use whatever is extra for
charging, thus preventing the generator or shore supply from being overloaded.

PowerAssist – Boosting the capacity of shore or generator power

This feature takes the principle of PowerControl to a further dimension allowing the
MultiPlus Compact to supplement the capacity of the alternative source. Where peak
power is so often required only for a limited period, it is possible to reduce the size of
generator needed or conversely enable more to be achieved from the typically limited
shore connection. When the load reduces, the spare power is used to recharge the battery.

Programmable relay

The MultiPlus is equipped with a programmable relay that by default is set as an alarm relay.
The relay can be programmed for all kinds of other applications however, for example as a
starter relay for a generator.

2.3 Battery Charger

Adaptive 4-stage charge characteristic: bulk – absorption – float – storage

The MultiPlus Compact features a microprocessor controlled ‘adaptive’ bat tery management
system that can be preset to suit different typs of batteries. The ‘adaptive’ feature will
automatically optimize the process relative to the way the battery is being used.

The right amount of charge: variable absorption time

When only shallow discharges occur (a yacht connected to shore power for example) the
absorption time is kept short in order to prevent overcharging of the battery. After a deep
discharge the absorption time is automatically increased to make sure that the battery is
completely recharged.

4

Preventing damage due to excessive gassing: the BatterySafe mode

If, in order to quickly charge a battery, a high charge current in combination with a high
absorption voltage has been chosen, the MultiPlus Compact will prevent damage due to
excessive gassing by automatically limiting the rate of voltage increase once the gassing
voltage has been reached.

Less maintenance and aging when the battery is not in use: the Storage mode

The storage mode kicks in whenever the battery has not been subjected to discharge during
24 hours. In the storage mode float voltage is reduced to 2,2V/cell (13,2V for a 12V battery) to
minimize gassing and corrosion of the positive plates. Once a week the voltage is raised back
to the absorption level to ‘equalize’ the battery. This feature prevents stratificat i on of the
electrolyte and sulphation, a major cause of early battery failure.

To increase battery life: temperature compensation

Every MultiPlus Compact comes with a battery temperature sensor. When connected, charge
voltage will automatically decrease with increasing battery tem perature. T his feat ure is
especially recommended for sealed batteries and/or when import ant fluctuat i ons of battery
temperature are expected.

Learn more about batteries and battery charging

To learn more about batteries and charging batteries, please refer to our book ‘Electricit y on
Board’ (available free of charge from Victron Energy and downloadable from
www.victronenergy.com). For more information about adapti ve charging please look under
Technical Briefs on our website.

2.4 Charge Controller MPPT 100/50

Charge current up to 50A and PV voltage up to 100V

The BlueSolar MPPT 100/50 charge controller is able to charge a lower nominal-voltage
battery from a higher nominal voltage PV array.

Ultra-fast Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT)

Especially in case of a clouded sky, when light intensity is changing continuously, an ultra fast
MPPT controller will improve energy harvest by up to 30% compared to PWM charge
controllers and by up to 10% compared to slower MPPT controllers.

Advanced Maximum Power Point Detection in case of partial shading conditions

If partial shading occurs, two or more maximum power points may be present on the power­voltage curve.
Conventional MPPTs tend to lock to a local MPP, which may not be the optimum MPP.
The innovative BlueSolar algorithm will always maximize energy harvest by locking to the
optimum MPP.

Outstanding conversion efficiency

No cooling fan. Maximum efficiency exceeds 98%. Full output current up to 40°C (104°F).

Flexible charge algorithm

Eight preprogrammed algorithms, selectable with a rotary switc h.

Extensive electronic protection

Over-temperature protection and power derating when tem perat ure is high.

5

EN NL FR DE ES Appendix

PV short circuit and PV reverse polarity protection.
PV reverse current protection.

Internal temperature sensor

Compensates absorption and float charge voltages for temperature.

Adaptive three step charging

The BlueSolar MPPT Charge Controller is configured for a three step charging process:
Bulk – Absorption – Float.

Bulk stage
During this stage the controller delivers as much charge current as possible to rapidly
recharge the batteries.

Absorption stage
When the battery voltage reaches the absorption voltage setting, the controller switches
to constant voltage mode.
When only shallow discharges occur the absorption time is kept short in order to prevent
overcharging of the battery. After a deep discharge the absorption time is automatically
increased to make sure that the battery is completely recharged. Additionally, the
absorption period is also ended when the charge current decreases to less than 2A.

Float stage
During this stage, float voltage is applied to the battery to maintain it in a fully charged
state.

2.5 Configuration Assitants

Several software programs (Assistants) are availabl e to configure the system for vari ous grid
interactive or stand alone applications. Please see http://www.victronenergy.nl/support-and-

downloads/software/

6

3. OPERATION – inverter/charger

3.1 On/Off/Charger Only Switch

When switched to ‘on’, the product is fully functional. The inverter will come into operation and
the LED ‘inverter on’ will light up.

An AC voltage connected to the ‘AC in’ terminal will be switched through to the ‘AC out’
terminal, if within specifications. The inverter will switch off, the ‘mains on’ LED will light up
and the charger commences charging. The ‘bulk’, ‘absorption’ or ‘float’ LEDs will light up,
depending on the charger mode.
If the voltage at the ‘AC-in’ terminal is not within specifications, the inverter will switch on.
When the switch is switched to ‘charger only’, only the battery charger of the MultiPlus will
operate (if mains voltage is present). In this mode input voltage also is switched through to the
‘AC out’ terminal.

NOTE: When only the charger function is required, ensure that the switch is switched to
‘charger only’. This prevents the inverter from being switched on if the mains voltage is lost,
thus preventing your batteries from running flat.

3.2 Remote control

Remote control is possible with a 3-way switch or with a Digital Multi Control panel.
The Control panel has a simple rotary knob with which the maximum current of the AC input
can be set: see PowerControl and PowerAssist in Section 2.
For the appropriate DIP switch settings, see sect. 5.5.1.

3.3 Equalisation and forced absorption

3.3.1 Equalisation

Traction batteries may require regular equalisation charging. In the equalisation mode, the
MultiPlus will charge with increased voltage for one hour (1V above the absorption voltage for
a 12V battery, 2V for a 24V battery). The charging current is then limited to 1/4 of the set
value. The ‘bulk’ and ‘absorption’ LEDs flash intermittently.

Equalisation mode supplies a higher charging voltage than most DC consuming

devices can cope with. These devices must be disconnected before additional

charging takes place.

3.3.2 Forced absorption

Under certain circumstances, it can be desirable to charge the battery for a fixed time at
absorption voltage level. In Forced Absorption mode, the MultiPlus will charge at the normal
absorption voltage level during the set maximum absorption time. The ‘absorption’ LED will be
‘on’.

7

EN NL FR DE ES Appendix

3.3.3 Activating equalisation or forced absorption

The MultiPlus can be put into both these states from the remote panel as well as with the
front panel switch, provided that all switches (front, remote and panel) are set to ‘on’ and
no switches are set to ‘charger only’.
In order to put the MultiPlus in this state, the procedure below should be followed.

If the switch is not in the required position after following this procedure, it can be
switched over quickly once. This will not change the charging state.

NOTE: Switc hi ng fro m ‘on’ to ‘charger onl y ’ and vice versa, as described below, must be done quick l y .
The switch must be toggled such that the intermediate position is 'skipped', as it were. If the switch
remains in the ‘off’ position even for a short time, the device may be turned off. In that case, the
procedure must be restarted at step 1. A certain degree of familiarisation is required when using the
front switch on the Compact in particular. When using the remote panel, this is less critical.

Procedure:

1. Check whether all switches (i.e. front switch, remote switch or remote panel switch if present) are in
the ‘on’ position.

2. Activating equalisation or forced absorption is only meaningful if the normal charging cycle is
completed (charger is in 'Float').

3. To activate:
a. Switch rapidly from ‘on’ to ‘charger only’ and leave the switch in this position for ½ to 2 seconds.
b. Switch rapidly back from ‘charger onl y’ to ‘on’ and leave the switch in this position for ½ to 2
seconds.
c. Switch once more rapidly from ‘on’ to ‘charger only’ and leave the switch in this position.

4. On the MultiPlus the three LEDs ‘Inverter’, ‘Charger’ and ‘Alarm’ will now flash 5 times.
If a MultiControl panel is connected, on the panel the LEDs ‘bulk’, ‘absorption’ and ‘float’ will also flash
5 times.

5. Subsequently, on the MultiPlus the LEDs ‘Bulk’, ‘Absorption’ and ‘Float’ will each light during 2 seconds.
If a MultiControl panel is connected, on the panel the LEDs ‘bulk’, ‘absorption’ and ‘float’ will also each light
during 2 seconds.

6.
a. If the switch on the MultiPlus is set to ‘on’ while the ‘Bulk’ LED lights, the charger will switch to
equalisation.
Similarly, if the switch on the MultiControl panel is set to ‘on’ while the ‘Bulk’ LED lights, the charger will
switch to equalisation.
b. If the switch on the MultiPlus is set to ‘on’ while the ‘Absorption’ LED lights, the charger will switch to
forced absorptio n.
Similarly, if the switch on the MultiControl panel is set to ‘on’ while the ‘Absorption’ LED lights, the charger
will switch to forced absorption.
c. If the switch on the MultiPlus is set to ‘on’ aft er the th ree LED s eq ue nce has f inis h ed, th e char ger will
switch to ‘Float’.
Similarly, if the switch on the MultiControl panel is set to ‘on’ after the three LED sequence has finished, the
charger will switch to ‘float’.
d. If the switch is has not been moved, the MultiPlus will remain in ‘charger only’ mode and switch to ‘Float’.

8

3.4 LED Indications

Inverter

The inverter is switched on and supplies
power to the load. Battery operation.

inverter

on

charger

off

alarm

charger only

The inverter is switched on and supplies
power to the load.
Pre alarm: overload, or
battery voltage low, or
inverter temperature high

inverter

on

charger

off

alarm

charger only

The inverter is switched off.
Alarm: overload, or
battery voltage low, or
inverter temperature high, or
DC ripple voltage on battery
terminal was too high.

inverter

on

charger

off

alarm

charger only

LED off

LED flashes

LED illuminated

9

EN NL FR DE ES Appendix

Charger

The AC input voltage is switched through
and the charger operates in bulk or
absorption mode.

inverter

on

charger

off

alarm

charger only

The AC input voltage is switched through
and the charger is switched off.
The battery charger can not reach battery
end voltage (bulk protection mode).

inverter

on

charger

off

alarm

charger only

The AC input voltage is switched through
and the charger operates in bulk or
absorption mode.

inverter

on

charger

off

alarm

charger only

The AC input voltage is switched through
and the charger operates in float mode.

inverter

on

charger

off

alarm

charger only

10

4. INSTALLATION – inverter/charger

4.1 Location

The product must be installed in a dry and well-ventilated area, as close as possible to the
batteries. There should be a clear space of at least 10cm around the appliance for cooling.

The product is suitable for wall mounting. For mounting see appendix A.
The appliance can be mounted horizontally as well as vertically; vertical mounting is
preferable. The vertical position offers optimum cooling.

The interior of the product must remain accessible after installation.

Try and keep the distance between the product and the battery to a minimum in order to
minimize cable voltage losses.

For safety purposes, this product should be installed in a heat-resistant

environment if it is used with equipment where a substantial amount of power is
to be converted. You should prevent the presence of e.g. chemicals, synthetic

components, curtains or other textiles, etc., in the immediate vicinity.

4.2 Connection of Battery cables (see appendix A)

In order to fully utilize the full capacity of the product, batteries with sufficient capacity and
battery cables with sufficient cross section shoul d be used. See table.

24/1600

12/1600

Preassembled

cable length 1.5 m

(mm2)

25 35

Recommended
cross section (mm2)

1,5 1  5 m

35

70

5  10 m

70

140

This product should be installed by a qualified electrician.

Excessively high ambient temperature will result in the following:

Reduced service life.
Reduced charging current.
Reduced peak capacity or shutdown of the inverter.
Never mount the appliance directly above the batteries.

11

EN NL FR DE ES Appendix

Procedure

Proceed as follows to connect the battery cables:

Connect the battery cables: the + (red) and the - (black), to the battery see appendix A.
Reverse polarity connection (+ to – and – to +) will cause damage to the product. (Safety
fuse inside the EasySolar chassis can be damaged)
Secure the nuts tightly in order to reduce the contact resistance as much as possible.

4.3 Connection of the AC cabling

The mains input & output terminal connector can be found on the bottom of the MultiPlus
Compact, see appendix A. The shore or mains cable must be connected to the connector with
a three-wire cable. Use a three-wire cable with a flexible core and a cross section of 2.5mm².

Procedure

Proceed as follows to connect the AC cables:
The AC output cable can be connected directly t o the male-connector (t he connector pulls
out!).
The terminal points are indicated clearly. From left to right: ‘N’ (neutral), earth, and ‘L1’
(phase).
The AC input cable can be connected directly to the female-connector (the connector pulls
out!).
The terminal points are indicated clearly. From left to right: ‘L1’ (phase), earth, and ‘N’
(neutral).

Push the ‘input’ connector into the AC-in connector (left-side).
Push the ‘output’ connectors into the AC-out connector (AC0 to AC3 from left to right-side).

Use an insulated box spanner in order to avoid shorting the battery.
Avoid shorting the battery cables.

This is a Safety Class I product (supplied with a protective grounding terminal).

Uninterruptible protective grounding must be provided at the AC input
and/or output terminals and/or chassis grounding point located externally
on the product.

The EasySolar is provided with a ground relay (relay H, see appendix B) that

automatically connects the Neutral output to the chassis if no external AC
supply is available. If an external AC supply is provided, the ground relay H

will open before the input safety relay closes. This ensures the correct
operation of an earth leakage circuit breaker that is connected to the output.

- In a fixed installation, an uninterruptable grounding can be secured by means
of the grounding wire of the AC input. Otherwise the casing must be grounded.

- In a mobile installation (for example, with a shore current plug), interrupting
the shore connection will simultaneously disconnect the grounding connection.
In that case, the casing must be connected to the chassis (of the vehicle) or to
the hull or grounding plate (of the boat).

- In case of a boat, direct connection to the shore ground is not recommended
because of potential galvanic corrosion. The solution to this is using an isolation

transformer.

12

4.4 Optional Connections

A number of optional connections are possible:
Undo the four screws at the front of the enclosure and remove the front panel.

4.4.1 Second Battery

The MultiPlus Compact has a connection (+) for charging a starter battery. For connection see
appendix 1.

4.4.2 Temperature Sensor

The temperature sensor supplied with the product may be used for temperature-compensated
charging. The sensor is insulated and must be mounted on the batteries minus pole. Default
output voltages for Float and Absorption are at 25°C. In adjust mode temperature
compensation is disabled.

10.0

10.5

11.0

11.5

12.0

12.5

13.0

13.5

14.0

14.5

15.0

0 5

10 15 20 25

30 35 40 45 50 55 60

Battery temperature

Volts

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

Volts

4.4.3 Remote Control panel & remote on/off switch

The product can be remotely controlled in two ways:

- With an external 3-way switch

- With a Multi Control Panel
Please see section 5.5.1. for appropriate DIP switch settings.

Only one remote control can be connected, i.e. either a switch or a remote control
panel.

4.4.4. Programmable relay

The MultiPlus is equipped with a multi-functional relay that by default is programmed as an
alarm relay. However, the relay can be programmed for all kinds of other applications, for
example to start a generator (VEConfigure software needed).
Near the connection terminals an LED illuminates when the relay is activated (refer to S, see
appendix A)

13

EN NL FR DE ES Appendix

5. CONFIGURATION – inverter/charger

5.1 Standard settings: ready for use

On delivery, the MultiPlus is set to standard factory values. In general, these settings are
suitable for single-unit operation.

Warning: Possibly, the standard battery charging voltage is not suitable for your
batteries! Refer to the manufacturer's documentation, or to your battery supplier!

Standard MultiPlus factor y settings

Inverter frequency 50 Hz
Input frequency range 45 - 65 Hz
Input voltage range 180 - 265 VAC
Inverter voltage 230 VAC
Stand-alone / parallel / 3-phase stand-alone
Search mode off
Ground relay on
Charger on/off on
Battery charge curve four-stage adaptive with BatterySafe mode
Charge current 75% of the maximum charge current
Victron Gel Deep Discharge (also suitable

for Victron AGM Deep Discharge)
Automatic equalisation charging off
Absorption voltage 14,4 / 28,8V
Absorption time up to 8 hours (depending on bulk time)
Float voltage 13,8 / 27,6V
Storage voltage 13,2 / 26,4V (not adjustable)
Repeated absorption time 1 hour
Absorption repeat interval 7 days
Bulk protection on
AC input current limit 12A (= adjustable current limit for PowerControl and

PowerAssist functions)
UPS feature on
Dynamic current limiter off
WeakAC off
BoostFactor 2
PowerAssist on
Programmable relay alarm function

Settings may only be changed by a qualified engineer

Carefully read the instructions before changes are made.

Batteries should be placed in a dry and well-ventilated area during charging.

14

5.2 Explanation of settings

Settings that are not self-explanatory are described briefly below. For further informat i on,
please refer to the help files in the software configuration programs (see Section 5.3).

Inverter frequency

Output frequency if no AC is present at the input.
Adjustability: 50Hz; 60Hz

Input frequency range

Input frequency range accepted by the MultiPlus. The MultiPlus synchronises within this range
with the AC input frequency. The output frequency is then equal to the input frequency.
Adjustability: 45 – 65Hz; 45 – 55Hz; 55 – 65Hz

Input voltage range

Voltage range accepted by the MultiPlus. The MultiPlus synchronises within this range with
the AC input voltage. The output voltage is then equal to the input voltage.
Adjustability:
Lower limit: 180 - 230V
Upper limit: 230 - 270V

Inverter voltage

Output voltage of the MultiPlus in battery operation.
Adjustability: 210 – 245V

Search Mode (Applicable in stand-alone confi guration onl y)
If search mode is ‘on’, the power consumption in no-load operation is decreased by approx.
70%. In this mode the Compact, when operating in inverter mode, is switched off in case of no
load or very low load and switches on every two seconds for a short period. If the output
current exceeds a set level, the inverter will continue to operate. If not, the inverter will shut
down again.
The Search Mode can be set with a DIP switch.
The Search Mode ‘shut down’ and ‘remain on’ load levels can be set with VEConfigure.
The standard settings are:
Shut down: 40 Watt (linear load)
Turn on: 100 Watt (linear load)

15

EN NL FR DE ES Appendix

AES (Automatic Economy Switch)

Instead of the search mode, the AES mode can also be chosen (with help of VEConfigure
only).
If this setting is turned ‘on’, the power consumption in no-load operation and with low
loads is decreased by approx. 20%, by slightly 'narrowing' the sinusoidal voltage.
Not adjustable with DIP switches.
Applicable in stand-alone c onfigurat i on onl y.

Ground relay (see appendix B)

With this relay (H), the neutral conductor of the AC output is grounded to the chassis
when the back feed safety relay is open. This ensures the correct operation of earth
leakage circuit breakers in the output.
If a non-grounded output is required during inverter operation, this function must be
turned off.
Not adjustable with DIP switches.

Battery charge curve

The standard setting is ‘Four-stage adaptive with BatterySafe mode’. See Section 2 for a
description.
This is the recommended charge curve. See the help files in the software configuration
programs for other features.

Battery type

The standard setting is the most suitable for Victron Gel Deep Discharge, Gel Exide A200
and tubular plate stationary batteries (OPzS). This setting can also be used for many
other batteries: e.g. Victron AGM Deep Discharge and other AGM batteries, and many types
of flat-plate open batteries. Four charging voltages can be set with DIP switches.

Automatic equalisation charging

This setting is intended for tubular plate traction batteries. During absorption the voltage limi t
increases to 2,83V/cell (34V for a 24V battery) once the charge current has tapered down to
less than 10% of the set maximum current.
Not adjustable with DIP switches.
See ’tubular plate traction battery charge curve’ in VEConfigure.

Absorption time

The absortion time depends on the bulk time (adaptive charge curve), so that the battery is
optimally charged. If the ‘fixed’ charging characteristi c is select ed, t he absorpt i on time is fixed.
For most batteries, a maximum absorption time of eight hours is suitable. If an extra high
absorption voltage is selected for rapid charging (only possible for open, flooded batt eri es! ),
four hours is preferable. With DIP switches, a time of eight or four hours can be set. For the
adaptive charge curve, this determines the maximum absorption time.

Storage voltage, Repeated Absorption Time, Absorption Repeat Interval

See Section 2. Not adjustable with DIP switches.

16

Bulk Protection

When this setting is ‘on’, the bulk charging tim e is limit ed to 10 hours. A longer charging time
could indicate a system error (e.g. a battery cell short-circuit). Not adjustable with DIP
switches.

AC input current limit

These are the current limit settings at which PowerControl and PowerAssist come into
operation. The factory setting is 12A.
See Section 2 of the book 'Energy Unlimited’ or the many descriptions of this unique feature
on our website www.victronenergy.com.

Remark: lowest allowable current setting for PowerAssist: 2,7A.

(2,7A per unit in case of parallel operation)

UPS feature

If this setting is ‘on’ and AC on the input fails, the MultiPlus switches to inverter operation
practically without interruption. The MultiPl us can therefore be used as an Uninterruptible
Power Supply (UPS) for sensitive equipment such as computers or communication systems.
The output voltage of some small generator sets is too unstable and distorted for using this
setting* – the MultiPlus would continually switch to inverter operation. For t his reason, the
setting can be turned off. The MultiPlus will then respond less quickly to AC input voltage
deviations. The switchover time to inverter operation is consequently slightly longer, but most
equipment (most computers, clocks or household equipment) is not adversely impacted.
Recommendation: Turn the UPS feature off if the MultiPlus fails to synchronise or continually
switches back to inverter operation.

*In general, the UPS setting can be left ‘on’ if the MultiPlus is connected to a generator with a
‘synchronous AVR regulated alternator’.
The UPS mode may have to be set to ‘off’ if the MultiPlus is connected to a generator with a
‘synchronous capacitor regulated alternator’ or an asynchronous al ternator.

Dynamic current limiter

Intended for generators, the AC voltage is bei ng generated by means of a static inverter (so­called ‘inverter’ generators). In these generators, rpm is down-controll ed i f t he load is low: this
reduces noise, fuel consumption and pollution. A disadvantage is that t he output voltage will
drop severely or even completely fail in the event of a sudden load increase. More load can
only be supplied after the engine is up to speed.
If this setting is ‘on’, the MultiPlus will start supplying extra power at a low generator output
level and gradually allow the generator to supply more, until the set current limit is reached.
This allows the generator engine to get up to speed.
This setting is also often used for ‘classic’ generators that respond slowly to sudden load
variation.

17

EN NL FR DE ES Appendix

WeakAC

Strong distortion of the input voltage can result in the charger hardly operating or not
operating at all. If WeakAC is set, the charger will also accept a strongly distorted voltage,
at the cost of greater distortion of the input current.
Recommendation: Turn WeakAC on if the charger is hardly charging or not charging at all
(which is quite rare!). Also turn on the dynamic current limiter simultaneousl y and reduce
the maximum charging current to prevent overloading the generator if necessary.
Not adjustable with DIP switches.

BoostFactor

Change this setting only after consulting with Victron Energy or with an engineer trained
by Victron Energy!
Not adjustable with DIP switches.

Programmable relay

By default, the programmable relay is set as an alarm relay, i.e. the relay will de-energise
in the event of an alarm or a pre-alarm (inverter almost too hot, ripple on the input almost
too high, battery voltage almost too low).
Not adjustable with DIP switches.
Near the connection terminals an LED illuminates when the relay is activated.

VEConfigure

With VEConfigure software the relay can also be programmed for other purposes, for
example to provide a generator starting signal.

5.3 Configuration by computer

All settings can be changed by means of a computer. Some sett i ngs can be changed with DIP
switches (see Section 5.2).

For changing settings with the computer, the following is required:

- VEConfigureII software or the appropriate Assistant(s): can be downloaded free of charge at
www.victronenergy.com.

- A RJ45 UTP cable and the MK2.2b RS485-to-RS232 interface. If the computer has no
RS232 connection, but does have USB, a RS232-to-USB interface cable is needed.
Both are available from Victron Energy.

5.3.1 VE.Bus Quick Configure Setup
VE.Bus Quick Configure Setup is a software program with which one Compact unit or

systems with a maximum of three Compact units (parallel or three phase operation) can be
configured in a simple manner. VEConfigureII forms part of this program.
The software free can be downloaded free of charge at www.victronenergy.com.
For connection to the computer, a RJ45 UTP cable and the MK2.2b RS485-to-RS232
interface is required.
If the computer has no RS232 connection, but does have USB, a RS232-to-USB interface

cable is needed. Both are available from Victron Energy.

5.3.2 VE.Bus System Configurator

For configuring advanced applications and/or systems with four or more MultiPlus units,
VE.Bus System Configurator software must be used. The software can be downloaded free
of charge at www.victronenergy.com. VE ConfigureI I f orms part of this program.

18

For connection to the computer, a RJ45 UTP cable and the MK2.2b RS485-to-RS232
interface is required.
If the computer has no RS232 connection, but does have USB, a RS232-to-USB interface

cable is needed. Both are available from Victron Energy.

5.4 Configuration with a VE.Net panel

To this end, a VE.Net panel and the VE.Net to VE.Bus converter are required.
With VE.Net you can set all parameters, with the exception of the multi-functional relay and
the VirtualSwitch.

5.5 Configuration with DIP switches (see appendix D)

Some settings can be changed with DIP switches.
Procedure:

a) Turn the Compact on, preferably without load and without AC voltage on the inputs. The
Compact will then operate in inverter mode.
b) Set the DIP switches as required.
c) Store the settings by moving DIP switc h 8 to ‘on’ and back to ‘off’.

5.5.1. DIP switch 1 and 2
Default setting: to operate the product with the ‘O n/Of f/C harger Only’ switch

ds 1: ‘off’
ds 2: ‘on’

The default setting is required when using the ‘On/Off/Charger Only’ switch in the front panel.

Setting for remote operation with a Multi Control Panel:
ds 1: ‘on’
ds 2: ‘off’

This setting is required when a Multi Control Panel is connected.
The Multi Control panel must be connected to one of the two RJ48 sockets B, see appendix
A.

Setting for remote operation with a 3-way switch:
ds 1: ‘off’
ds 2: ‘off’

This setting is required when a 3-way switch is connected.
The 3-way switch must be wired to terminal L, see appendix A.

Only one remote control can be connected, i.e. either a switch or a remote control panel.
In both cases the switch on the product itself should be ‘on’.

19

EN NL FR DE ES Appendix

5.5.2. DIP switch 3 to 7

These DIP switches can be used to set:

- Battery charge voltage and Absorption time

- Inverter frequency

- Search mode

- AC input current limit 12A or 6A

ds3-ds4: Setting charge voltages

ds3-ds4

Absorption
voltage

Float
voltage

Storage
Voltage

Absorption

Time

(hours)

Suitable for

ds3=off

ds4=off
(default)

14.4

28.8

57.6

13.8

27.6

55.2

13.2

26.4

52.8

8

Gel Victron Deep Discharge
Gel Exide A200
AGM Victron Deep Discharge

ds3=on

ds4=off

14.1

28.2

56.4

13.8

27.6

55.2

13.2

26.4

52.8

8

Gel Victron Long Life (OPzV)
Gel Exide A600 (OPzV)
Gel MK battery

ds3=off
ds4=on

14.7

29.4

58.8

13.8

27.6

55.2

13.2

26.4

52.8

5

AGM Victron Deep Discharge

Tubular plate or OPzS
batteries in semi-float mode

AGM spiral cell

ds3=on
ds4=on

15.0

30.0

60.0

13.8

27.6

55.2

13.2

26.4

52.8

6

Tubular plate or OPzS
batteries in cyclic mode

Batteries with high antimony content can typically be charged with a lower absorption voltage
than batteries with low antimony content. (Please refer to our book ‘Electricity on Board’
downloadable from our website www.victronenergy.com for details and suggesti ons about
charging batteries). Contact your battery supplier for the correct charge voltages and change
(wit h VE -c onfigure) t he voltage setti ngs if required.
The default charge current setting is 75% of the maximum charge current. This current will be
too high for most applications.
For most battery types the optimal charge current is 0.1-0.2x the battery capacity.

ds5: Inverter frequency off = 50Hz on = 60Hz

ds6: Search Mode off = off on = on

ds7: AC input current limit off = 12Amp on = 4Amp

Store the settings by moving DIP switch 8 to ‘on’ and back to ‘off’.

20

5.5.3 Exemplary settings

Example 1 is the factory setting (since factory settings are entered by computer, all DIP
switches of a new product are set to ‘off’, except for DS-2).

DS-1 Panel option

off DS-2 Panel option

on

DS-3 Ch. voltage

off DS-4 Ch. voltage

off DS-5 Frequency

off DS-6 Search mode

off DS-7 AC-in Limit

off

DS-8 Store setting

→

←

DS-1

off DS-2

on

DS-3

off DS-4

on

DS-5

off DS-6

off DS-7

on

DS-8

→

←

DS-1

on

DS-2

off DS-3

on

DS-4

on

DS-5

on

DS-6

on

DS-7

off

DS-8

→

←

Example 1: (factory setting)
1 No panel or remote
switch connected
2 No panel or remote
switch connected
3, 4 GEL 14.4V
5 Frequency: 50Hz
6 Search mode off
7 AC-in Limit 12Amp

8 Store setting: off→ on→ off

Example 2
1 No panel or remote
switch connected
2 No panel or remote
switch connected
3, 4 AGM 14,7V
5 Frequency: 50Hz
6 Search mode off
7 AC-in Limit 4Amp

8 Store setting: off→ on→ off

Example 3
1 Panel or remote
switch connected
2 Panel or remote
switch connected
3, 4 Tubular plate 15V
5 Frequency: 60Hz
6 Search mode on
7 AC-in Limit 12Amp

8 Store setting: off→ on→ off

Store the settings (DS3-DS7) by changing switch ds-8 from ‘off’ to ‘on’, and then back to ‘off’.
The LEDs ‘charger’ and ‘alarm’ will flash to indicate acceptance of the settings.

21

EN NL FR DE ES Appendix

6. TROUBLE SHOOTING T ABLE – inverter/charger

Proceed as follows for quick detection of common faults.
DC loads must be disconnected from the batteries and the AC loads must be
disconnected from the inverter before the inverter and/or battery charger is tested.

Consult your Victron Energy dealer if the fault cannot be resolved.

Problem

Cause

Solution

The inverter fails

to operate when

switched on

The battery voltage is too high

or too low

Ensure that the battery voltage

is within the correct value

The inverter fails

to operate

Processor in no function-mode

Disconnect mains voltage.

Switch Front switch off, wait 4
seconds

Switch front switch on

The alarm LED
flashes

Pre-alarm alt. 1. The DC input
voltage is low

Charge the battery or check the
battery connections

The alarm LED

flashes

Pre-alarm alt. 2. The ambient

temperature is too high

Place the inverter in a cool and

well-ventilated room, or reduc e

the load

The alarm LED

flashes

Pre-alarm alt. 3. The load on the

inverter is higher than the

nominal load

Reduce the load

The alarm LED

flashes

Pre-alarm alt. 4. Voltage ripple

on the DC input exceeds

1.25Vrms

Check the battery cables and

terminals
Check the battery capacity;

increase if necessary

The alarm LED

flashes
intermittantly

Pre-alarm alt. 5. Low battery

voltage and excessive load

Charge the batteries, reduce

the load or install batteries with
a higher capacity. Use shorter

and/or thicker battery cables

The alarm LED is
on

The inverter did cut out following
a pre-alarm

Check the table for the
appropriate course of action

22

Problem

Cause

Solution

The charger is not

functioning

The AC input voltage or

frequency is out of range

Ensure that the input voltage is

between 185Vac and 265Vac , and
that the frequency matches the
setting

The thermal circuit breaker has

tripped

Reset the 16A thermal circuit

breaker.

The battery is not

being charged fully

Incorrect charging current

Set the charging current at

between 0.1 and 0.2x battery

capacity

A defective battery connection

Check the battery terminals

The absorption voltage has been

set to an incorrect value

Adjust the absorption voltage to

the correct value

The float voltage has been set to

an incorrect value

Adjust the float voltage t o the

correct value

The internal DC fuse is defective

Inverter is damaged

The battery is

overcharged

The absorption voltage has been

set to an incorrect value

Adjust the absorption voltage to

the correct value

The float voltage has been set to
an incorrect value

Adjust the float voltage t o the
correct value

A defective battery

Replace the battery

The battery is too small

Reduce the charging current or

use a battery with a higher

capacity

The battery is too hot

Connect a temperature sensor

Battery charge

current drops to 0
when the
absorption voltage
is reached

Alt. 1: Battery overtemperature

(> 50°C)

- Allow battery to cool down

- Place battery in a cool
environment

- Check for shorted cells

Alt 2: Battery temperature sensor

faulty

Unplug battery temperature sensor

from the MultiPlus.
Reset the MultiPlus by switching it
off, then wait for 4 seconds and
switch it on again
If the MultiPlus now charges
normally, the battery temperature
sensor is faulty and needs to be

replaced

23

EN NL FR DE ES Appendix

7. INSTALLATION – solar charge controller

7.1 Connection of the solar panels

Up to three strings of PV panels can be connected with three sets of MC4 (PV-ST01) PV
connectors.

7.2 PV configuration

● The controller will operate only if the PV voltage exceeds battery voltage (Vbat).

● PV voltage must exceed Vbat + 5V for the controller to start. Thereafter minimum PV

voltage is Vbat + 1V.

● Maximum open circuit PV voltage: 100V
The controller can be used with any PV configuration that satisfies the three above

mentioned conditions.

For example:

24V battery and mono- or polycristalline panels

● Minimum number of cells in series: 72 (2x 12V panel in series or 1x 24V panel).

● Maximum: 144 cells.

Remark: at low temperature the open circuit voltage of a 144 cell solar array may exceed
100V, depending on local conditions and cell specifications. In that case the number of cells in
series must be reduced.

7.3 Cable connection sequence (see figure 1)

First: connect the battery.
Second: connect the solar array (when connected with reverse polarity, the controller will

heat up but will not charge the battery).

• Protect the solar modules from incident li ght during

installation, e.g. cover them.

● Never touch uninsulated cable ends.

● Use only insulated tools.

24

8. CONFIGURATION – the solar charge controller

Eight preprogrammed charge algorithms, selectabl e with a rotary switch:

Pos

Suggested battery type

Absorption

V

Float

V

dV/dT

mV/°C

0

Gel Victron long life (OPzV)

Gel exide A600 (OPzV)

Gel MK

28,2 27,6 -32

1

Gel Victron deep discharge

Gel Exide A200
AGM Victron deep discharge
Stationary tubular plate (OPzS)
Rolls Marine (flooded)

Rolls Solar (flooded)

28,6 27,6 -32

2

Default setting

Gel Victron deep discharge
Gel Exide A200
AGM Victron deep discharge
Stationary tubular plate (OPzS)
Rolls Marine (flooded)

Rolls Solar (flooded)

28,8 27,6 -32

3

AGM spi ral cel l

Stationary tubular plate (OPzS)

Rolls AGM

29,4 27,6 -32

4

PzS tubular plate traction batteries or

OPzS batteri es

29,8

27,6

-32

5

PzS tubular plate traction batteries or

OPzS batteri es

30,2

27,6

-32

6

PzS tubular plate traction batteries or

OPzS batteries

30,6

27,6

-32

7

Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePo4)
batteries

28,4 27,0 0

25

EN NL FR DE ES Appendix

After changing the position of the rotary switch, the LEDs will blink during 4 seconds as
follows:

Switch

position

LED

Float

LED
Abs

LED

Bulk

Blink

Frequency

0 1 1 1 Fast

1 0 0 1 Slow

2 0 1 0 Slow

3 0 1 1 Slow

4 1 0 0 Slow

5 1 0 1 Slow

6 1 1 0 Slow

7 1 1 1 Slow

Thereafter, normal indication resumes, as described bel ow.
Remark: the blink function is enabled only when PV power is present on the input of the

controller.

8.1 LEDs

Blue LED ‘bulk’: will be on when the battery has been connected

Switches off when the absorption voltage is reached.
Blue LED ‘absorption’: will be on when the absorption voltage is reached.

Switches off at the end of the absorption period.

Blue LED ‘float’: will be on after the solar charger has switched to float.

8.2 Battery charging information

The charge controller starts a new charge cycle every moring, when the sun starts shining.
The maximum duration of the absorption period is determined by the battery voltage
measured just before the solar charger starts up in the morning:

Battery voltage Vb (@start-up) Maximum absorption time

Vb < 23,8V 4 h
23,8V < Vb < 24,4V 2 h
24,4V < Vb < 25,2V 1 h

Vb > 25,2V 0 h

If the absorption period is interrupted due to a cloud or due to a power hungry load, the
absorption process will resume when absorption voltage is reached again later on in the day,
until the absorption period has been completed.

26

The absorption period also ends when the output current of the solar charger drops to less
than 2 Amps, not because of low solar array output but because the battery is fully charged
(tail current cut off).

This algorithm prevents over charge of the battery due to daily absorption charging when the
system operates without load or with a small load.

8.3 Connectivity

Several parameters can be customized (VE.Direct to USB cable, ASS030530000, and a
computer needed). See the data communication whitepaper on our website.
The required software can be downloaded from

http://www.victronenergy.nl/support-and-downloads/software/

The charge controller can be connected to a Color Control panel, BPP000300100R, with a
VE.Direct to VE.Direct cabl e.

27

EN NL FR DE ES Appendix

9. TROUBLESHOOTING – solar charge controller

Problem

Possible cause

Solution

Charger does not
function

Reversed PV connection

Connect PV correctly

Reverse battery
connection

Non replacable fuse blown

Return to VE for repair

The battery is not
fully charged

A bad battery connection

Check battery connection
Cable losses too high

Use cables with larger cross

Large ambient

temperature difference
between charger and
battery

Make sure that ambient
conditions are equal for
charger and battery

Only for a 24V system:

wrong system voltage
chosen (12V instead of
24V) by the charge
controller

Disconnect PV and battery,

after making sure that the
battery voltage is at least
>19V, reconnect properly
(reconnect battery first)

The battery is
being overcharged

A battery cell is defect

Replace battery

Large ambient

temperature difference
between charger and
battery (Tambient_chrg <
Tambient_batt)

Make sure that ambient
conditions are equal for
charger and battery

10. MAINTENANCE

This product does not require specific maintenance. It will suffice to check all connections
once a year. Avoid moisture and oil/soot/vapours and keep the device clean.

28

11. TECHNICAL DATA

EasySolar

EasySolar 12/16 00/ 70 EasySolar 24/1600/40

Inverter/charger

PowerControl / PowerAssist

Yes

Transfer switch

16A

INVERTER

Input voltage range 9,5 – 17V 19 – 33V
‘Heavy duty’ output AC 0 16A

Output AC1, 2, 3

Output voltage: 230VAC ± 2%

Frequency: 50Hz ± 0,1% (1)

Cont. output power at 25 °C (3)

1600VA / 1300W

Cont. output power at 40 °C 1200W

Peak power

3000W

Maximum efficiency

92%

94%

Zero-load power

8W

10W

Zero-load power in search mode

2W

3W

CHARGER

AC Input

Input voltage range: 187-265 VAC

Input frequency: 45 – 65 Hz Power factor: 1

Charge voltage 'absorption' 14,4 / 28,8V

Charge voltage 'float'

13,8 / 27,6V

Storage mode

13,2 / 26,4V

Charge current house battery (4)

70A

40A

Battery temperature sensor

yes

Programmable relay (5) yes

Protection (2)

a - g

Solar Charge Controll er

Maximum battery current

50A

Maximum PV power, 6a,b)

700W

1400W

Maximum PV open circuit voltage 100V 100V
Maximum efficiency 98%

Self-consumption

10mA

Charge voltage 'absorption', default

14,4V 28,8V

Charge voltage 'float', default setting 13,8V 27,6V

Charge algorithm

multi-stage adaptive

Temperature compensation

-16mV / °C resp. -32mV / °C

Protection a – g