The new Orion-Tr Smart DC-DC charger is designed for use in dual battery systems in vehicles or boats, where the (smart) alternator and the start battery are used to charge the service battery. The model range is suitable for 12V or 24V systems, and both lead acid and lithium batteries.

Why do we need Smart DC-DC chargers?

• The reasons are best explained by this recently published blog: Careful – Alternator Charging Lithium (or how to not blow up your alternator).
• Learn about ‘Smart’ Alternators and Auxiliary Battery Charging with Victron Energy retailer 12 Volt Planet.

Typical (smart) alternator system

Here’s an outline schematic of a typical (smart) alternator vehicle or boat charging system, using the Orion-Tr Smart DC-DC charger, with a lead acid starter battery and a lithium auxiliary battery – along with control and monitoring via VictronConnect.

Orion-Tr Smart Chargers Isolated model range

220 – 280 Watt

• 12/12-18 (220W)
• 12/24-10 (240W)
• 24/12-20 (240W)
• 24/24-12 (280W)

360 – 400 Watt

• 12/12-30 (360W)
• 12/24-15 (360W)
• 24/12-30 (360W)
• 24/24-17 (400W)

Unlimited multiple units can be connected in parallel to increase output power and they are suited for high temperature operation up to 55°C, with a full rated output up to 40°C.

The Orion-Tr Smart DC-DC charger range can be monitored and programmed via Bluetooth, using the free VictronConnect app. Whilst you might expect it to report current – the Orion-Tr Smart is not currently designed to measure it, although that is something to be worked on for future versions. In this instance it was a higher priority to get this important new product to market without delay.

These chargers can also be remotely controlled via a remote on/off switch and they have an engine running detection mechanism.

Orion-Tr Smart showing its mounting, connections and remote on/off switch socket.

Conclusion

The Orion-Tr Smart range is a welcome addition to Victron Energy’s products, making for simplified charging of lithium and lead acid batteries in dual battery vehicle or boat systems.

Here’s the product page, including datasheet, dimensions, manual and high quality images.

Models currently in stock (with more to follow) are:

• Orion-Tr Smart 12/12-30A (360W) Isolated DC-DC charger
• Orion-Tr Smart 12/24-15A (360W) Isolated DC-DC charger
• Orion-Tr Smart 24/24-17A (400W) Isolated DC-DC charger

John Rushworth