Frequently Asked Question
The Victron Orion Non-Isolated DC-DC Charger serves as a versatile power management device, functioning as both a DC-DC battery charger and a power supply. It offers a wide input and output voltage range, making it suitable for various applications, especially in vehicles with smart alternators or in situations with extended cable lengths
The charger employs an adaptive 3-stage charge algorithm: bulk, absorption, and float. For lead-acid batteries, the absorption time is automatically adjusted based on the depth of discharge. For lithium batteries, the default absorption time is fixed at 2 hours
The Orion-Tr Smart DC-DC Charger features an engine-running detection mechanism. This prevents the charger from discharging the starter battery when the alternator is not supplying power, which is particularly useful for vehicles with smart alternators that have variable output voltage
Key features include: Bluetooth Smart enabled for monitoring and configuration - Fully programmable charging algorithms - Remote on/off capability - Parallel connection option for increased output current - High temperature protection -IP43 protection when installed correctly
The isolated version has separate, galvanically isolated input and output negative terminals, while the non-isolated version uses a common negative return. If both source and target batteries share a negative return (e.g., chassis ground), the non-isolated version is sufficient
The charger can be configured and monitored using the VictronConnect app, which allows users to change settings, update firmware, and display key data including warnings and alarms
The charger includes several protection mechanisms: Over-temperature protection with power derating Overload protection Short circuit protection Connector over-temperature protection
The standby current is less than 1 mA, which helps prevent unnecessary battery drain when the charger is not in use
The charger has under-voltage shut down and restart thresholds. For example, in the 12V models, the shut down occurs at 7V and restarts at 7.5V
Yes, the charger can be configured as a power supply with a fixed output voltage, making it suitable for use as a constant voltage source in various applications
Yes, an isolated Orion-Tr Smart DC-DC Charger can be used in a system with common ground, such as a typical motorhome setup. While a non-isolated charger would be the first choice for common ground systems, using an isolated charger is perfectly acceptable and won't cause any issues
The newer Orion XS is an improved version of the DC-DC charger. It is smaller in size, offers more power output, and includes additional features. Unlike the older Orion-Tr Smart, the Orion XS supports VE.Smart Networking, allowing it to integrate more seamlessly with other Victron devices
Yes, every Victron device with "Smart" in the product name includes Bluetooth functionality. This allows for easy configuration and monitoring using the VictronConnect app
Using a non-isolated DC-DC charger in a motorhome offers several advantages: === Cost-Effectiveness=== Non-isolated chargers are typically less expensive than their isolated counterparts, making them a more budget-friendly option for motorhome owners. ===Compact Size=== Due to the absence of an isolation barrier, non-isolated chargers are generally smaller and more compact. This is particularly beneficial in motorhomes where space is often at a premium. ===Simplicity in Installation=== Most motorhomes have a common ground system, where both the starter battery and the leisure battery share the same ground (usually the vehicle chassis). Non-isolated chargers are well-suited for this setup, as they use a common negative return. ===Efficiency=== Non-isolated chargers can be more efficient in power conversion due to their simpler design, potentially resulting in less power loss during the charging process. ===Suitability for Common Ground Setups=== In typical motorhome electrical systems where both batteries share a common ground, a non-isolated charger is perfectly suitable and can perform its function effectively without the need for galvanic isolation. While non-isolated chargers offer these advantages, it's important to note that they may not be ideal for all situations. For instance, in systems with sensitive electronic equipment or in rare cases where the batteries are not sharing a common ground, an isolated charger might be preferable. However, for the vast majority of motorhome applications, a non-isolated charger provides a cost-effective, space-efficient, and perfectly adequate solution for charging leisure batteries from the vehicle's alternator.
