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With Forced Absorption mode activated on the MultiPlus-II, the charger initially lights up the ‘absorption’ LED, signaling its entry into this specific charging phase. In this mode, the system maintains the battery at the absorption voltage for a predetermined time.

This functionality is particularly advantageous for batteries recovering from deep discharge or when they need conditioning, as it ensures a prolonged and stable charge.

The charger adheres to this set absorption time, making it different from regular charging, where the absorption phase duration varies according to the battery’s instantaneous needs.

This mode is important to achieving an optimal charge, enhancing battery health and longevity.

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Automatic equalization charging is a critical feature for maintaining the health and longevity of certain types of batteries, particularly flooded tubular plate traction batteries and OPzS batteries. This feature kicks in during the absorption phase of the charging cycle.

Here’s what happens during automatic equalization:

Once the bulk phase is complete and the charger has moved to the absorption phase, it will monitor the current going into the battery. When this current drops to less than 10% of the maximum charge current set for the battery, the charger will then increase the charging voltage to 2.83 volts per cell. For a 24V battery system, this equates to a voltage of approximately 34 volts.

This elevated voltage level during the equalization phase helps to balance the charge across all the cells within the battery, equalizing the state of charge. It’s particularly beneficial for flooded lead-acid batteries where slight differences in voltage across cells can occur over time.

By periodically equalizing the cells, it ensures each cell is brought up to the same voltage, which helps in correcting the electrolyte imbalances and reducing sulfation, a common issue that can shorten battery life.

It’s important to note that automatic equalization is not something you can adjust with DIP switches. Instead, you’d use the VEConfigure software to set up the ‘tubular plate traction battery charge curve’ which is designed to manage this process correctly.

Always ensure you’re following the specific instructions for your battery type to avoid overcharging or damage. This feature underscores the importance of precise charging strategies tailored to the specific needs of advanced battery technologies used in today’s energy systems.

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VictronConnect is indeed the newer software and is designed to be user-friendly, offering compatibility across various operating systems beyond just Windows.

However, it’s worth noting that it doesn’t currently support all the features found in VEConfigure and VEFlash.

For instance, if you’re using Assistants for specific functions like AC PV or ESS, you’ll still need to rely on VEConfigure.

The same goes for if you need to use the Virtual Switch functionality, although it’s important to mention that some of the most popular Virtual Switch features are now accessible through the AC input control feature in VictronConnect.

Additionally, changing the Grid Code and using the Lithium Battery Wizard for setups that require an Assistant, such as those with a VE.Bus BMS, aren’t available in VictronConnect.

And if you’re working with the MultiPlus-II external current sensor, that’s another instance where you’d need to use VEConfigure.

So, while VictronConnect is making strides in ease of use and accessibility, there are still some advanced tasks that will have you turning to the older software for now.

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The ‘Accept wide frequency range’ setting in the grid section of the VictronConnect app is designed to allow your MultiPlus inverter/charger to operate with a wider range of input frequencies than the standard 50Hz or 60Hz.

Function:

• This setting relaxes the inverter/charger’s sensitivity to the exact frequency of the AC input.

• Normally, inverters require a very stable frequency to operate correctly, as significant deviations can lead to operational issues or damage.

• By enabling this setting, your MultiPlus can accept input power with a frequency between 45Hz and 65Hz, which is outside the standard range.

Use Case for Generators:

• Generators, especially portable ones, can have fluctuating output frequencies due to changes in engine speed.

• This is especially true for non-inverter type generators under varying loads. If the MultiPlus is set to only accept the standard frequency, it could reject power from a generator that doesn’t maintain a perfect 50Hz or 60Hz output.

• By accepting a wider frequency range, the MultiPlus can continue to operate effectively even if the generator’s frequency varies within this wider range.

Advantages:

• This setting is particularly useful when using the MultiPlus in areas with unstable grid frequency or with generators where the frequency stability cannot be guaranteed.

• It prevents the MultiPlus from disconnecting from a power source simply because the frequency deviates slightly from the norm, ensuring a more consistent power supply.

When using this feature, it’s important to consider the connected loads and their tolerance to frequency variations. Some sensitive electronic devices may not operate correctly if the frequency is too far from the standard 50Hz or 60Hz.

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Wow that worked! Also go the two cables and ports mixed up. Thank you!