Using a PC with a Victron Multiplus

[Profzarkov]

Hello

I'm thinking of setting up the software on a PC and pluggin my laptop into my Victron Multiplus to get at the configuration - has anyone tried this? It needs a USB/RJ45 convertor - the Vcitron retails at £50 but there are generic ones on Ebay for just a few pounds - is there really any difference? I know you can use the dip switches but has anyone "played" with the Victron software?

Steve

[nicknorman]

Hello

I'm thinking of setting up the software on a PC and pluggin my laptop into my Victron Multiplus to get at the configuration - has anyone tried this? It needs a USB/RJ45 convertor - the Vcitron retails at £50 but there are generic ones on Ebay for just a few pounds - is there really any difference? I know you can use the dip switches but has anyone "played" with the Victron software?

Steve

"USB/RJ45" just describes the connectors. Ok so the USB end is well defined, but what is actually connected to what pins on the RJ45? Presuming it is serial (RS232-type) data, which bits are connected to which of the 8 RJ45 pins? Are the levels standard RS232 (+-15v)? Or more likely I think, TTL levels ie 0v to+5.

 

I haven't played with Victron software but have done with Mastervolt. It is certainly better than fiddling with dip switches.

Edited July 5, 2015 by nicknorman

[GUMPY]

Victron software is easy gives you a lot of tweaks. Used it on the barge with the victron seriel inteface, it was a while ago. No idea if any of the cheaper converters will work.

[nicknorman]

In fact the Phoenix manual says it's RS485 so probably a standard USB to rs485 with RJ45 connector would be ok, presuming your model is similar.

[pearley]

Only altered ours yesterday via VE Net to increase the inverter mains voltage but using the interface they sell. Easy to use and well worth the money. If we intend o be on a shoreline for any length of time then I change the charge settings then change them back when we cruise.

 

I've never tried the dip switches. Always looked too fiddly to me.

[DandV]

There are some settings that can be changed using the interface but not on the dip switches. It was only through the intreface that I was able to get the multiplus to accept a supply from an inexpensive generator. It actually would not accept supply from a Honda open frame generator before either.

Don