For installers, that might mean walking up to any installation with any type of laptop, and being able to connect and adjust product settings right away, without needing extra tools. It might also mean reviewing an older system’s configuration easily, or spotting an issue in a single battery in a battery bank without having to travel to the site.

For end-users, it might mean checking in on their system from their phone, in whatever theme they prefer, and getting a more detailed picture of what’s happening, wherever they are.

Released today, VictronConnect app v6.40 brings a range of updates designed to make system monitoring and management easier for end-users, as well as professionals. Let’s have a look at what’s new.

Bluetooth connectivity now on Windows

Many installers rely on a Windows laptop to configure, monitor, and troubleshoot Victron Energy products on site. Until now, this meant a wired connection, such as a VE.Direct USB cable for products like MPPTs and DC-DC chargers, or an MK3-USB cable for VE.Bus products like Multis and Quattros, regardless of whether the product was Smart (has built-in Bluetooth) or not.

With this update, the VictronConnect app now also supports Bluetooth connectivity for Windows laptops, so installers can connect to Victron Energy Smart products wirelessly, just like Mac laptops, or iOS and Android phones, already do.

One less cable to dig for in the toolbox, and one less thing that can go missing. A wireless connection also gives users the freedom to stand further away from the device while working.

Access settings files without needing the same app version

The VictronConnect app has long had a “Demo feature” where, along with many things, a saved settings file can be loaded through the Settings file manager, and the app then displays it as though it were connected to the real product, with the full snapshot of settings, readings, and history available for inspection, with only an orange “DEMO PRODUCT” banner as a reminder that no physical device is actually connected. This has allowed installers and end-users to review a system’s configuration, without needing to be on-site or connected to the actual product. More on how this works can be found on the Settings files page of the manual.

Until now, that inspection trick came with a catch: it only worked if the settings file had been saved with the exact same VictronConnect version currently installed on the device doing the inspecting. Since the VictronConnect app automatically updates itself, this sometimes made things a bit complicated. A file saved by a customer running whatever version had quietly updated onto their phone last week often simply wouldn’t open for an installer, even on a newer version of the very same app.

With the new VictronConnect v6.40, any settings file created with VictronConnect v6.30 or later can now be opened for inspection regardless of which version is currently installed (as long as it’s v6.40 or later), helping speed up inspections.

Seeing every battery in the bank, from anywhere

Speaking of speedy inspections, wouldn’t it be convenient to see individual battery details in a battery bank remotely, without having to travel to the site?

A battery bank is only as strong as its weakest battery, and finding that weak link has traditionally meant being physically present at the installation. With this release, individual battery details from the Lynx Smart BMS NG, including voltage, temperature, and status per unit, are now visible over remote connections, not just when locally connected.

For fleets, remote installations, or any system where a service visit is expensive or slow to arrange, the outlier battery can now be spotted from a desk, with a clear picture of what’s going on before the installer has to pack up their van.

SolarSense 750 data, now ready for further analysis

We recently introduced the SolarSense 750, a compact, wireless PV performance monitor designed to help optimise PV energy usage and monitor the health of a PV installation. It measures irradiance, available power, estimated daily min/max solar power (kW), and estimated daily yield (kWh), and logs its own history. Until now, though, that history stayed inside the app.

With VictronConnect v6.40, that historical data can now be exported straight to CSV. For installers and integrators doing performance analysis, it is now easier to validate expected solar yield against what a system is actually producing, decide on the optimal position and angle for installing the panels, or put together a report for a client.

Your app, your view

While most of the features that we’ve mentioned so far will mainly be appreciated by professionals, VictronConnect v6.40 also comes with features for everyone using the app regularly, for example the new dark mode.

The app can now follow the phone or laptop’s system theme automatically, or light or dark mode can be set independently, regardless.

Wrapping up

VictronConnect v6.40 brings installers and distributors a faster way to connect on site, easier access to a system’s history and battery health from a distance, and a more flexible way to inspect settings files. For end-users, it means an app that looks the way it’s wanted and feels more at home on a phone, wherever it happens to be checked from.

If you’d like to see the full list of changes included in this update, check out the VictronConnect change log. We hope everyone enjoys using these new features. And as always, we really appreciate your feedback as it shapes future improvements, so feel free to share your experience or suggestions in the Victron Community.

The post VictronConnect v6.40 appeared first on Victron Energy.

Large off-grid systems have traditionally been complex to build and difficult to change; Victron Microgrid takes a different approach.

Each Power Bank is a complete, independent Victron installation with its own inverter/chargers, batteries and monitoring. No central controller, and no data communication wiring between units. If you need more power you can just add another Power Bank, and scale the system – up to 400 kW.

Why Victron Microgrid?

• Scale beyond a single system.

Multiple Power Banks on a shared AC bus let you build off-grid systems much larger than a single VE.Bus system, without the complexity and risk of one big centralised inverter installation.

• Keep running when a unit goes down.

Each Power Bank operates on its own. If one is taken offline for service or develops a fault, the rest continue supplying the AC bus uninterrupted. Removing any single point of failure.

• Add or remove capacity without downtime.

Connect more Power Banks to the Microgrid as demand grows. Disconnect them when demand drops or maintenance is needed. No reprogramming required, and the AC bus stays live to loads the whole time.

• Build with what installers already know.

No new hardware. Victron Microgrid uses the same inverter/chargers, batteries, charge controllers and GX devices that installers already work with. Each Power Bank is monitored through its own GX device and VRM.

• Move equipment between sites.

Perfect for rental: containerised Power Banks can go from one project to the next. When a job is done, the same hardware returns to the depot and goes out again ready to join another Microgrid. A standard, efficient container build can be used to satisfy a broad range of applications by simply joining them together via AC wiring on site.

Applications

Because each Power Bank is self-contained, Victron Microgrid works well on sites where demand changes over time and equipment may need to move between projects.

1. Generator rental fleets

Rental operators can treat Power Banks as modular fleet assets. Instead of maintaining many fixed-capacity systems for different jobs, stock standardised Power Banks and combine them to match each contract. A smaller deployment might use two Power Banks; a larger job may need six or more. When a contract ends, the same units return to the depot and go out again in a different combination. Power Banks can be grouped together as a Microgrid in VRM to provide remote monitoring, alarms and visibility across active sites.

2. Construction sites

Construction sites often have a stable base-load with temporary spikes in demand. Site offices, lighting and tools may run for months at one level, then a crane, welding gear or other heavy equipment drives consumption up.

3. Events and festivals

Demand profiles shift across bump-in, live operation and bump-out. Peak power may only be needed for part of the schedule, but reliable supply is needed throughout. Deploy more Power Banks for peak periods, fewer for quieter ones with no need to redesign the system. If the programme changes, add capacity quickly by connecting another Power Bank to the AC bus. And if one unit has an issue, the rest keep running.

4. Expanding existing off-grid systems

Victron Microgrid is also a practical way to upgrade an existing Victron off-grid installation. Instead of pulling a working system apart to make it bigger, install a second Power Bank alongside it and connect both to the same AC bus. The original system stays as it is and just becomes one of the Power Banks in the Microgrid. This is useful for containerised or remote installations where reworking what’s already there would be disruptive. Each Power Bank manages its own charging, so the new unit needs its own charging sources such as additional solar, a DC generator connection, or other DC charging.

How Victron Microgrid works

A Power Bank is a complete Victron off-grid system: one or more VE.Bus inverter/chargers, a battery bank, DC distribution, DC charging sources, and a GX device for monitoring. In a Victron Microgrid, multiple Power Banks connect to a shared AC bus and work together as one large power system.

Independent charging – no central controller needed

Decentralised DC charging is what makes this controller-less approach work. Each Power Bank manages its own state of charge using its own charging sources. Victron supports a range of charging options:

• MPPT solar charge controllers for DC-coupled PV
• AC chargers (such as MultiPlus, Quattro or Multi RS) connected to an AC generator or other AC supply, independent of the Microgrid AC bus.
• DC generator integration (including start/stop automation)

Getting started

Victron Microgrid is available via a dedicated VE.Bus firmware for MultiPlus, MultiPlus-II, Quattro and Quattro-II. Walk through the concept, configuration and commissioning with these training videos:

• Introduction
• Programming
• Demonstration

The Technical manual covers installation and configuration in detail. See this Slide deck for a more visual overview. Contact a Victron distributor to discuss whether Victron Microgrid fits your application.

The post Introducing Victron Microgrid appeared first on Victron Energy.

The switch pane gets even better

The switch pane was introduced in Venus OS v3.60 with support for the Energy Solutions SmartSwitch. In v3.70, it’s grown to become a central point for an entire digital control system.

GX relays join the switch pane. The built-in relays on the GX device can now be controlled from the switch pane. Set a relay’s function to Manual under Settings → Integrations → Relays, and it appears as a controllable output.

Node-RED virtual switches and supported 3rd party digital switches (such as Garmin, Shelly & Safiery) now also appear in the switch pane, enabling customisable controls.

Marine MFD App now includes switch pane support. GX relays, digital switches, and Node-RED virtual switches can be viewed and controlled directly from an MFD display.

GX Boat Page: Various enhancements and new CANopen integration

Venus OS v3.70 introduces new CANopen profiles, expanding integration options for electric propulsion systems, including Sevcon and Curtis motor controllers. This CANopen integration path is an addition to the already existing NMEA2000 integration.

Together, these options enable electric propulsion monitoring on the GX device for an even wider range of setups, displaying motor RPM, power, current, temperature, and direction.

Enhancements for the GX Boat Page apply to both CANopen and NMEA2000 integrations and include:

• Support for dual motor setups
• Visualisation of regeneration
• Smoother RPM gauge animations
• Option to adjust for inverted motor direction

Lynx Smart BMS NG individual battery and cell monitoring

Detailed information about each specific battery connected to a Lynx Smart BMS NG, including individual cell voltages, and cell temperatures for each battery can now been seen on the GX.

Node-RED: virtual switches and smarter workflows

Building on the virtual devices introduced in v3.60, Node-RED now offers a powerful set of virtual switch types. These create interactive controls in the switch pane that can be linked to any automation logic in Node-RED flows. This bridges Node-RED programming and the normal GX user interface.

A significant workflow improvement is the ability to set multiple properties of a virtual device in a single message, reducing both CPU usage and flow complexity. Where previously you might have needed four or five separate inject nodes to configure a virtual device, it can now be done with one.

Input nodes have a new feature called “conditional evaluation” which is useful for triggering actions when values cross thresholds (e.g., “battery SOC below 20%“). Victron nodes configured to evaluate conditions can now output TRUE/FALSE on a second output, including combining two conditions (eg. SOC% and PV power) with AND/OR logic.

A brief snippet of documentation has been added to each Victron node to make it quicker and easier to understand how to use them.

Garmin EmpirBus digital switching

A welcome addition for RV builders, boatbuilders, and OEMs, Garmin EmpirBus digital switching is now supported in the switch pane on both the GX display, and via remote console on VRM.

New features also improve integration with Garmin and other NMEA 2000-equipped marine displays.

Alarms from the GX device are now transmitted onto the NMEA 2000 network. Garmin MFDs will visualise these alerts, giving crew immediate awareness of system warnings from the helm.

Allow for Internet access. In systems where the GX device is connected to a Garmin system using ethernet, and then want to use WiFi for internet, it is now possible to select which network interface is internet enabled.

Shelly integration

Venus OS now natively supports Shelly Gen2 (and newer) smart switches, energy meters and RGB light controllers. This brings better integration for the affordable and widely available range of Shelly smart home hardware to the Victron ecosystem. These are useful for controlling and monitoring AC loads such as water heaters, pool pumps, or lighting circuits.

Shelly devices on the same network are discovered automatically, though disabled by default. Once enabled in the Settings -> Integrations menu, Shelly devices appear in the switch pane.

Supported device types include on/off switches, dimmable outputs with slider control, and energy meters. It’s also possible to set the RGB controller color in the UI using presets.

Safiery STAR Digital Switching Integration

Venus OS now includes support for the Safiery STAR-Power, STAR-Light, and STAR-Rover digital switching controllers. Connected via VE.Can, they offer control of 12V or 24V switching circuits directly from the GX switch pane.

New sensor and device support

Several new device integrations round out this release:

Gobius tank sensors are now supported via Bluetooth, as well as Ruuvi Air sensors.

Pylontech batteries can now have their firmware updated remotely through the VRM Portal. A significant timesaver for installers with large system fleets connected via VRM. Navigate to the Device List on VRM, where updateable Pylontech batteries will be discovered. You’ll need to obtain Pylontech firmware files, and advice for when updates are needed from Pylontech battery dealers as VRM does not host these files.

SSS StorageDock Batteries have passed Victron BMS-Can compliance testing and are now supported. 

Orion XS is now supported for NMEA 2000-out.

Tank sensor improvements include tank shape configuration and high/low alarm settings for Mopeka wireless sensors, as well as improved multi-device tank level handling for MFD displays over VE.Can.

New UI improvements

The New UI received many refinements:

A new Watts/Amps display preference called “Mixed” shows AC values in Watts and DC values in Amps.

An option to disable all animations can save up to 40% CPU on a Cerbo GX, making the interface noticeably more responsive.

Keyboard navigation has been added throughout the interface.

Portuguese and Afrikaans have been added as new language options.

Notification handling has been improved across the board. Alarm silencing is clearer, and the overall experience is more intuitive. The phase rotation alarm can now be enabled or disabled from the settings.

Fixes and improvements

This release includes important fixes across several areas:

Dynamic ESS: Fixed precision issues arising from the change to 15-minute windows, particularly for systems with decimal SOC values. Also fixed false battery discharge during scheduled charging with grid-to-battery restrictions, and a bug with negative grid set-points.

DVCC: Fixed charge current division between Multi-RS and external solar chargers in systems with PV inverters. Fixed CCL not being applied after turning a Multi off and back on. Added limited CCL control for a second VE.Bus system via MK3-USB.

Peak shaving: Fixed bugs where peak shaving was insufficient under some conditions, when Self-consumption from battery was set to “Only critical loads”.

PV Inverters: Fixed Enphase limiting issues, and SolarEdge limiter setup repeating on reconnections

Security: Brute force protection has been added to MQTT and HTTP(S) login. A new read-only mode for Modbus-TCP provides a more secure option.

Raspberry Pi: Raspberry Pi 5 is now supported and includes the new UI. Please note: The New UI cannot render portrait orientation yet. Use the Classic UI if you have the Raspberry Pi Touch Display 2, or other portrait display.

Before you go

You can find the full list of changes in the changelog here.

Information on how to install the firmware is available in the GX Device manual. A quick link to the relevant page can be found here.

And as always, a huge thank you to our community for their invaluable help in testing and preparing this release. The detailed bug reports and feedback from the beta testing period have made v3.70 possible.

The post Introducing Venus OS 3.70 appeared first on Victron Energy.

In the next sections, we take a closer look at what’s new in VictronConnect v6.30.

VRM integration

The VictronConnect app has been the go-to app for direct access to Victron products and system monitoring, allowing configuration, firmware updates, and real-time monitoring via Bluetooth with quick access from your phone. The VRM Portal, on the other hand, gives full remote system monitoring from anywhere in the world with internet connection, providing full system overview, detailed performance analysis, remote support, and tools for fleet and multi-system management. VictronConnect v6.30 brings these two worlds closer together.

VRM dashboard access is now built directly into the VictronConnect app. Previously, when accessing a system remotely via the VRM tab, the app redirected you to the VRM Portal for full system information. You can now see the system dashboard directly in VictronConnect, including control switching, overview data, and Dynamic ESS information such as costings and schedules, making it easier to understand what is happening across your system from one place.

VictronConnect on Android Auto

If your vehicle supports Android Auto, you can now view key system information directly on your car’s display while driving through the VictronConnect app on your phone.

After updating to VictronConnect v6.30, a VictronConnect icon will automatically appear in Android Auto once a phone is connected. The feature uses Bluetooth Instant Readout and requires no additional configuration or GX device. If Instant Readout data is available for a product in the VictronConnect app (for example, the Smart range), it will also be shown in Android Auto, creating a simple plug-and-play experience. This makes it easy to monitor system status safely while driving, especially in campervans, motorhomes, and professional vehicles.

Android widgets and notifications

Android users can place widgets on their phone home screen to quickly see important system information without opening the app. It is also now possible to enable notifications so your phone alerts you if something needs attention, giving you peace of mind that your system is running as expected without needing to constantly check it. Notifications and Widgets use Bluetooth Instant Readout and work when your phone is within range of supported products.

Enhanced Trends

Trends data is now clearer and more detailed, making it easier to see how your system has been performing over time. Updated graphs are easier to read and interpret, while also giving access to deeper system information, helping build a clearer picture of energy production, consumption, and battery behaviour. Trends data is now also included when exporting product settings, making it easier to keep records or share data for support or analysis. This feature is available for all products that support stored Trends.

Smarter firmware updates

With VictronConnect v6.30, firmware updates now show release notes directly in the update screen, making it easier to see what has changed before updating. The release notes remain visible during the update process, giving clearer insight into each firmware version.

The built-in firmware library can now also update itself automatically when an internet connection is available, keeping the latest firmware versions ready even between app updates. Firmware updates can still be carried out without an internet connection, just like before.

Batch programming

And finally, a feature many installers will appreciate: Batch Programming. You can now apply setting files and firmware updates across multiple devices at the same time. The feature supports both VE.Direct (wired) and Smart (Bluetooth) products, making it easier to manage mixed systems. The short video below gives a quick overview of how it works.

Wrapping up

VictronConnect v6.30 makes it easier to stay connected to your system, whether you are standing next to it, travelling, or checking it remotely. By bringing VictronConnect and VRM closer together, and adding practical tools for daily use, this update helps make system monitoring, control, and maintenance simpler for everyone using Victron systems.

We hope you enjoy using these new features. Your feedback helps shape future updates, so feel free to share your experience or suggestions in the Victron Community.

The post VictronConnect App v6.30 appeared first on Victron Energy.

Introducing the new switch pane

The new switch pane

The new switch pane offers quick access to switching functions in vehicles, boats, or stationary systems, either via touchscreen or through VRM.

A button at the top left of the New UI opens the pane, giving users fast access to controls for loads and key systems.

Currently, the Energy Solutions DC4 four-channel SmartSwitch is supported. Devices from other digital switching partners will follow soon.

Marine-specific updates

This release includes a significant update to the Marine MFD HTML5 App, greatly improving display quality on high-definition MFDs such as the Garmin 9000. A night mode has also been introduced, applying a soft red overlay that’s easier on the eyes in low-light conditions.

The new night mode in the updated high-resolution layout on a Garmin 9000.

This update also introduces a dedicated Electric Boat page, accessible via a new icon at the bottom of the New UI. It’s designed for small craft with electric propulsion systems and displays key information such as speed, RPM, electric motor power consumption, and battery state of charge.

The new electric boat page

Lastly, the Brief Page in the UI now allows individual tanks to be selected for display as ring gauges, rather than being limited to selection by tank type. This gives users—particularly in the marine and camper sectors—the flexibility to, for example, show total fuel alongside a day tank for quick reference to key values.

Updated brief page displaying tank information

VE.Bus settings backup and restore

This update to the GX device firmware introduces a backup and restore feature for VE.Bus configuration and settings. It allows a multi-unit system to be quickly restored after the failure of a single unit. The restore process automatically identifies the replacement device and applies the correct configuration.

This feature also makes it possible to quickly switch between different configurations in applications where regular configuration changes are needed.

Restore and backup tabs

Added compatibility with Sunwoda and Soluna batteries

Support for automatic DVCC configuration has now been added for Sunwoda and Soluna batteries. Integration testing is complete, and both are now officially compatible. You can find more details on the battery compatibility page.

Heating & cooling control for NG batteries

This release also introduces a new feature that will be especially appreciated by campervan owners spending winters in the mountains or boats sailing in high latitudes. When used with Victron NG batteries, the GX device can now control a relay to manage battery heating in cold conditions and cooling if needed in hot environments.

To use this feature, your system needs a CAN-connected battery and a relay configured for temperature control, along with heating pads or cooling equipment installed. Please note that it requires the Lynx Smart BMS NG, and isn’t compatible with the Small BMS NG or VE.Bus BMS NG.

The feature also works with other managed batteries, as long as they send cell temperature data to the GX device.

PV Inverter limiter support

Support for managed PV inverters on GX devices has been expanded to include zero feed-in and dynamic ESS power control on any PV inverter that supports Sunspec information models 123 or 704. Equipment from SMA, SolarEdge, Kostal and Enphase has already been confirmed, and we encourage users to test other inverters that state support for Sunspec 123 or 704 in their firmware.

Redesigned settings menu

The GX device was launched well over a decade ago, and since then the range of features and supported devices has grown rapidly. The settings menu was due for an update to improve navigation and make better use of the higher-resolution layout in the New UI.

Alongside new high-level categories, the updated menu now includes ‘breadcrumbs’ at the top of the screen, helping users see where they are and easily navigate back to a specific section with a single tap.

Settings menu

Modification checks page

A new ‘Modification Checks’ page has been added under Settings > General, offering a quick overview of the software status on a GX device. More importantly, it gives installers and distributors a clear indication of whether a system has been modified, which can be helpful when diagnosing or providing support.

If the startup configuration has been changed, for example to load a custom battery driver, or if an SSH key has been added, this will be shown at a glance. The page also allows users to disable modifications, reinstall the latest firmware, or run an online update, all from one place.

Modification checks page

Node-RED automation improvements

This release brings exciting new updates to Node-RED and support for Victron’s new GX IO-Extender 150.

The new version of Victron’s Node-RED support introduces ‘virtual devices’, making it possible to create virtual equivalents of the following devices on the GX:

• Batteries
• PV inverters
• Temperature sensors
• Tanks
• Grid meters
• Meteo/irradiance sensors (irradiance, wind speed, wind direction)
• GPS
• Electric motor drive (see boat page)

Virtual devices allow data from external systems, such as those using MQTT or Modbus-TCP, to be made available within the GX device and on the VRM Portal. This means the information appears just like data from a fully supported Victron product. For example, it can be used to read or import data from a custom or specialised tank monitor.

Another useful update is the ability to control the relay on an MPPT via Node-RED. This version also reduces CPU usage by communicating more efficiently with the GX device.

GX IO – Extender 150

The new GX IO-Extender 150 is introduced with this release to give integrators more options to control and integrate devices and systems. It provides the following additional USB-connected I/O to GX devices:

• 2 x bi-stable relays
• 1 x solid-state relay
• 2 x 4 input/output digital IOs
• 4 x adjustable level outputs (PWM)

Fixes and improvements

This release brings important fixes to the Cerbo GX MK2 and the GX LTE, which have fixes to the stability of VE.Can port 2 and use with IPv6 respectively.

Other improvements include:

• Systems with a second VE.Bus device connected via an MK3 can now be controlled by the BMS, thanks to a new option in the DVCC menu.
• The Orion XS can now be configured as a standard DC-DC converter instead of a charger, and in that case will not be controlled by DVCC.
• ESS no longer throttles PV production when a user selects Optimised together with 100% Minimum SOC.
• Multi RS now includes better support for generators and can be used in three-phase systems without batteries.
• The New UI now offers a button in the remote console to add a GX device to VRM without needing the portal ID from the device sticker.
• Generator control has been improved. It is now possible to stop a generator based on tank level, helping to avoid airlocks when the tank runs empty. DC generators are now detected at input.
• The ESS feed-in limit has been increased from 32 kW to allow import and export at higher power levels.
• Dynamic ESS now responds more accurately when actual consumption or solar production differs from the forecast.

How to install

You can see the information on how to install the firmware in your GX Device manual. Quick links to the relevant pages can be found here: Ekrano GX, Cerbo GX, Color Control GX and for the Venus GX.

Before you go

We’ve had a huge amount of support from our testing community in preparing this update for release, and I would like to thank everyone, both developers and testers, for helping us get this exciting release out!

For more information, you can see the slide show here.

Enjoy this new version,

Matthijs Vader

The post Introducing Venus OS 3.60 appeared first on Victron Energy.

These changes are a result of our ongoing discussions with operators, helping us identify ways to save them time and provide superior service to their customers.

Overview of the New Additions:

1. Map Details: Preview multiple sites in close proximity, including fuel tank levels and generator run time until the next service
2. Mini Graphs: View maximum load and other key metrics from the installations overview
3. Prominent Warnings and Alarms: Improved visibility of warnings and alarms in the installation overview
4. New Access Control Role: ‘Technician’ added for enhanced access management
5. Remote Generator Service Reset: Ability to remotely reset the generator service interval clock
6. Overall Speed Improvements: 8x faster load time of side navigation list, very noticeable for 100 sites or more

1. Map Details

The map has been updated and improved to help manage large numbers of systems more efficiently. You can now filter systems and view actionable information such as:

• Runtime Until Service: Displayed along with fuel tank levels.
• Warning and Alarm Information: Icons provide details about warnings and alarms, and filter options to view sites based on the site status.
• Expandable Site Clusters: Clusters of sites in the same location can now be expanded to reveal more details.

You can access the map by clicking the globe icon in the top-right corner of the installation overview. This will display all your systems around the world.

The map also functions as a filter for the installation overview list. Zooming into a specific area will update the displayed systems accordingly.

The map’s display coordinates and selected tags are added to the URL, allowing you to bookmark specific regions. For example, you can create a bookmark to show only systems with an active alarm located in Amsterdam.

This feature is particularly useful for displaying various regions on fleet management screens in a control room or during routine inspections. We’ve received feedback from users requesting additional information, such as battery state of charge, and plan to continue rolling out new details.

2. Mini Graphs on VRM Installation Overview

This update is designed to help you monitor your fleet at a glance without needing to open each installation separately. You can view the following metrics for 24 hours:

• Battery state of charge
• Solar production
• Maximum load
• Grid supply
• Generator supply

This feature helps quickly identify and addresses potential issues. For example, spikes in maximum load can indicate that a system may be undersized for a particular application, even before warnings or alarms are triggered. This allows fleet operators of hybrid generator systems to ensure their customers have correctly sized equipment.

How to Access the Mini Graphs

The mini graphs are hidden by default. To enable them, log in to VRM, select the table settings button in the installation overview, and activate detailed mode.

This may take a few moments to load, depending on the number of systems in your fleet. Once loaded, you can begin exploring the enhanced data insights.

Note: This feature is optimised for desktop use. On a mobile phone, you need to use landscape mode.

3. Prominant Warnings and Alarms

We’ve improved the warnings and alarms in the installation overview. You no longer need to click into a site to identify issues. Simply hover your mouse over an alert to view a pop-up message with more details. Clicking on the alarm will take you to the alarm log for further information.

4. New Access Control Role: ‘Technician’

The new ‘Technician’ access control role provides similar control to full access users, including access to a site’s diagnostics data, firmware updates, and the ability to control devices linked to the site.

Key differences between Technicians and Site Admins include three restrictions: Technicians cannot delete a site, replace the GX device linked to a site, or remove other users’ access to the site.

The ‘Technician’ role is perfect for sharing a site with users who can troubleshoot and perform maintenance on a system, without the risk of making administrative changes that cannot be easily reversed (such as removing access for others).

The previous ‘non-full access’ role has been renamed to ‘User’. Aside from the name change, the access rights of this role remain unchanged.

A User and Technician access level account are able to invite other users (equal to their access level) to the site as well, but they are not allowed to remove other users from the site.

To change a user’s access to ‘Technician’, go to the user settings of your site in VRM. You will find a dropdown next to each user with the choices ‘User’, ‘Technician’, and ‘Admin’. At the top of the user table, click on the ‘i’ icon to refer to a list of actions and see which user roles are permitted in VRM.

A site must always have at least one Admin and will block the last Admin from changing their role to ‘Technician’. However, if there is more than one Admin, an Admin can change their own role to ‘Technician’. This change is immediate, and the Admin will then not be able to change it back without the help of another Admin of the site. Therefore, it is recommended to create another test account until you are confident in the changes.

This role is available for individual sites as well as for Groups and Teams.

5. Remote Generator Service Reset

If your installation has an autostart generator that is activated by the GX device, one of the useful features of VenusOS is the ability to track the runtime hours and count down to a service interval. This is originally set up in the auto-start generator controls menu on the GX device itself.

When managing multiple sites, the maintenance process might be automated with a service crew in the field. In such cases, having a central operator monitor and resetting the service clock remotely can save time.

While this was previously possible, it required going in via the remote console. This improvement brings the service interval reset button to the control centre in VRM alongside the other generator controls, making it faster to access and easier to use.

If you’d like to see these new features in action, they are demonstrated in this short introductory training.

Closing Remarks

VRM is a core component of the Victron ecosystem of products and services, supported by a dedicated team committed to continuous improvement. Updates are pushed weekly and have been for over nine years! You can view a full list of changes in our public VRM change log.

If you have any feature requests, suggestions for improvements, or issues, please share them with your Victron Dealer, Victron Sales Manager, or via the Victron Community with the topic tag VRM.

The post New VRM fleet management features launched appeared first on Victron Energy.

The new user interface

The most significant change in the new release is the new graphical user interface. The new UI brings a modern look, improved functionality, and a faster, more responsive experience. The best introduction is through watching this video:

To discover the full details and benefits of the new UI, explore our detailed slides covering this release.

Marine-specific updates

• The Marine MFD HTML5 App now supports Watts units for real time monitoring on multifunction displays and chart plotters. To see power/Watts instead of current/Amps, change the preference in the new UI.
• The integration with the ARGO Zeus Alternator controller now features DVCC integration, where the GX controls and optimises the total system – including limiting charge current to be within the max allowed charge current by the batteries.
• The MG Energy Systems AFC 300 is now supported as an alternator controller
• The Fischer Panda AGT series of DC gensets can now be integrated over CAN-bus, providing (remote) read-out of all parameters.
• Wind turbine energy production, as well as the alternator outputs, can now be displayed on-screen, using a SmartShunt as a DC energy meter.
• Support has been added for the soon-to-be-launched Safiery STAR-tank sensors, which connect wirelessly to the GX via Bluetooth. These long-range Bluetooth radar tank level sensors, which are part of the Safiery STARSHIP product range, to be released at the METSTRADE Amsterdam next month.
• For yachts with multiple tanks, the new UI features some nice functions where it will display the total available fresh water, summarised across all tanks, and same for fuel or any other fluid type.

Improved security

The new release brings improved local network security to Venus OS, by adding HTTPS security to the Remote Console on LAN. Additionally, the related settings have been simplified into a single new setting: the “Network Security Profile”. Password protection for MQTT provides additional security for third-party integrations, such as Home Assistant and Node-RED.

The VRM Portal-related settings have been simplified into a single option, allowing the system to be either completely disconnected from the VRM Portal, connected in read-only mode (which does not permit remote access for settings changes or firmware updates), or to have full control. This change removes the former “VRM Two way communication on/off” setting.

See the Security section of the slides for this release for more details.

Enhanced Genset integration & start/stop

Support has been added for five new genset controllers, including the popular Deep Sea DSE4520 MKII, as well as support for DSE over RTU.

The new option to connect to DSE controllers using RTU instead of Ethernet is a significant enhancement. For the middle tier DSE controllers, it is now no longer required to add a DSE ethernet gateway. The other advantage of using RTU is that it simplifies installation, and does not require networking knowledge. Please do note the requirement for an isolated USB to RS485 interface; see genset features slides linked below for more information.

DC generators are now also supported in the form of Hatz and Fischer Panda.

Improvements have been made to the accuracy of reporting on generator runtime for both controller connected gensets and relay-controlled generators.

To see the full details on these updates, please refer to the genset features slides.

Node-RED

This release makes it possible to factory reset Node-RED on a GX device from the Venus OS Large submenu. This removes all flows and settings, allowing for a fresh start without the need for physical access to the device to factory reset its Node-RED settings, or completely.

Additionally, various new nodes have been added and existing nodes are improved, especially for Dynamic ESS, Peak Shaving, VRM and genset. For details, see its change log, starting from v1.5.18 up to and including v1.5.23.

Managed battery improvements

Various improvements have been made, including:

• Venus OS 3.50 now better handles Pylontech batteries experiencing cell voltage imbalance. For this improvement to be active, the GX needs to have access to the cell voltages from the Pylontech BMS. To check if a system has this capability, navigate to the Battery, then Details, and check for Lowest cell and Highest cell voltage readings. If not, it might indicate that the BMS doesn’t support it or needs a firmware update.
• Leoch-, new on the compatibility list, and Pytes battery integration now features auto configuration, DVCC force enabled, SVS and STS off.
• ZYC batteries integration also features auto configuration now, and moreover can now receive firmware updates directly through the GX device and the VRM Portal, marking a significant step in expanding remote management capabilities for supported batteries.
• Lithium Batteries South Africa, LBSA, has been added to our battery compatibility list earlier this week. Please note that there is no auto-configuration in the GX for LBSA yet: ensure that DVCC and other settings are enabled as recommended in the LBSA / Victron manual.

How to install and the complete change log

Aside from the highlighted improvements above, there are additional enhancements and changes.  To read the details, please refer to the full change log by logging into Victron Professional and selecting ‘Firmware’ -> ‘Venus OS’ -> ‘firmware changelog’.

Information about how to install the firmware is in the manual of your GX Device. Quick links to the relevant pages can be found here: Ekrano GX, Cerbo GX, Color Control GX and for the Venus GX.

Conclusion

A big thank you to all the developers, designers as well as all users and professionals that helped to test this massive project. Re-implementing and improving such a large part of Venus OS is no piece of cake – and the result shows!

Enjoy the new version,

Matthijs Vader

The post Venus OS v3.50 – New User Interface, Security and Generator Improvements appeared first on Victron Energy.

It is particularly effective in Europe, for example, where it will save money if your energy provider publishes energy prices for the day ahead – as often happens in Germany and the Netherlands, for example – and it will also save money for those on day/night/weekend and fixed tariffs.

Who is Dynamic ESS for?

It can be used by owners of home Energy Storage Systems – Solar energy systems which include battery storage, and a grid connection – which are controlled by a GX device. A supported grid energy meter will further enhance the feature accuracy and cost savings.

(The home installation can include a generator as long as it is only normally used for emergency back-up power.)

Read on for more information or view this short video presentation:

What does the Dynamic ESS feature do?

Dynamic ESS intelligently switches between battery storage, solar energy, and the electricity grid. Based on ‘input data’ and ‘learning’ it optimally stores low-cost energy for use when prices are high.

How does it work?

An algorithm takes into account information such as the cost of energy right now, battery type (and therefor cycle-life and cost), capacity, SoC, maximum charge/discharge rates; your typical energy use based on a four-week history; and a weather-related solar yield forecast – for which your location must be known.

Dynamic ESS plans ahead to ensure that energy you are predicted to use later in the day has already been stored – and at the most economical price.

How do I implement Dynamic ESS?

Dynamic Energy Storage System (Dynamic ESS) is one of the most exciting features made available by software release v3.30 of our Venus OS – the operating system which drives all our GX communication centre devices, such as the Cerbo GX. Dynamic ESS can be set up through your GX device’s user-interface, or remotely via the Victron Remote Management (VRM) platform.

Go to ‘Settings/Firmware’ to ensure you are running v3.30 or later – or visit the VRM portal, go to device list, click Firmware Update. The firmware can also be updated with an SD-card or USB memory stick.

When you are running v3.30 or later which has an ESS assistant installed you will find Dynamic ESS as a menu option within Settings. You will be asked to provide a range of information which may take fifteen minutes. Your cost savings will begin immediately, improve over the next 28 days, and go on for life!

And you can read more about Energy Storage Systems on our Energy Storage Market page.

The post Dynamic Energy Storage System: save energy costs – automatically appeared first on Victron Energy.

Let’s get into the highlights:

ESS Peak shaving

A while ago, we added peak shaving for ESS systems built without an Energy Meter. Today we add the same, but then for ESS systems that do include an energy meter.

There are two new AC current-limit settings, and those limits will apply to the complete system. Therefore they now include any high-power loads which are usually installed in parallel to the inverter/charger system such as EV Chargers and Heat pumps.

How does it work?

The system monitors the current at the meter, and when needed engages to keep that within the configured limits:

• to prevent overcurrent during export, system limits solar production and battery discharge.
• to prevent overcurrent during import, system limits battery charging.
• to prevent overcurrent during import because of loads, system will assist using battery power. (As long as battery permits this, of course).
• when the SOC has dropped more than 5% below the configured ESS minimum SOC, the battery will be recharged from the grid as soon as the loads drop sufficiently to allow for charging.

Requirements and other details

1. The feature is part of ESS; and applies to MultiPlus, Quattro, MultiPlus-II and EasySolar inverter/chargers. The Multi RS will have the same feature when we release Energy Meter and ESS support for that, but that’s a different project and implementation.
2. The inverter/chargers require an updated ESS Assistant – for which you’ll need VEConfigure. The required version of the ESS Assistant is 018C. Note that this software configuration change requires a trained installer. Making such changes is not for end-users
3. About the existing “Limit system feed-in” option in the ESS menu, in watts: if you have both set, the lower of the two is followed for feeding in DC-coupled PV.
4. The GX does not limit PV-inverters in relation to the new export current-limit. To illustrate: in case of major solar production, at the same time as a high-tariff for selling energy to the utility, the new mechanism will limit feed-in power from the battery to zero. So, as long as the installed PV Inverter system is configured in such a way that it can’t by itself blow the fuse – then it’s fine.
5. The feature works with all ESS supported energy meters.

Three phase operation details

• When the import/export limit is not being exceeded on any phase, the system operates normally, according to the “Multiphase regulation” setting.
• If the current-limit is exceeded on any one phase, in either direction, power will be moved to other phases in equal measures.
• If all phases are maxed-out and more power is needed to run the loads without exceeding the BMS limits, all phases are overloaded equally – resulting in the lowest probability of tripping a breaker or blowing a fuse.
• Power will be passed through the DC bus to accomplish this goal, even if Multiphase regulation is set to “total of phases”.

Comparison of the two features

It’s important to understand when to use which AC current-limit settings:

1. ESS systems with an energy meter: use the new feature as explained in this post.
2. ESS systems without an energy meter: use the settings explained in the v3.00 release blog. This includes systems using our AC current sensors that plug directly into the inverter/charger.

Marine MFD App improvements

Last month, we launched the renewed Marine MFD App, with a complete new look as well as various new features:

This release includes various improvements, and one very welcome one – at least for me when sailing – is the improved load time. When clicking the Victron icon, the app now loads much faster.

Generator start/stop controller integration

DSE: Add support for the SE 8620-MKII and the DSE 6120 models

ComAp: Fix coolant temperature and oil pressure register decimals

How to install and complete change log

Aside from the above highlighted explanations, there are additional improvements and changes.  To read the details, see the full change log by logging into Victron Professional and selecting ‘Firmware’ -> ‘Venus OS’ -> ‘firmware changelog’.

Information about how to install the firmware is in the manual of your GX Device. Quick links to the relevant pages can be found here: Ekrano GX, Cerbo GX, Color Control GX and for the Venus GX.

The post Venus OS v3.30 – Peak shaving for ESS appeared first on Victron Energy.

Let’s get into the highlights of the v3.20 release:

Completely renewed Marine MFD App

We have completely revamped the Victron App that works on all popular chart plotters and MFDs. A great deal of work has gone into bringing the range of Victron products into this new interface. We’ve made it clear and easy to read at a glance, while also being much more responsive. Overall a big improvement for people with Victron powered boats.

Here is an example of the new interface showing the new tank levels, and multiple battery state of charge gauges.

It’s available in a dark and light mode to suit the style of your bridge. This example also shows the temperature sensors.

This fast new interface fits right in on our supported MFD glass bridge partner products.  

The layout will dynamically adjust to fit around your display preferences, so you can keep an eye on bow thruster load while using your boats GPS to navigate out of the harbour.

On high resolution screens, the Remote Console pane is now much larger, making it much easier to read and use.

Support for our new Orion XS 12/12 50A DC-DC battery charger

This update adds support for the new Orion XS 12/12 50A DC-DC battery charger, allowing for both local and remote monitoring via the VRM Portal.

The new Orion XS can be set up in either DC to DC converter, or charger mode. This will determine what settings are available and its behaviour in relation to the GX device.

• In DC to DC converter mode: you will see the Orion displayed as an entry in the device list, and can see the voltage read out, and on/off switch.
• In charger mode: the GX assumes an alternator source and shows alternator output Amps in the new marine MFD App view. Charger mode also enables DVCC features to optimise charging, including SVS, SCS and STS, as well as enabling a user setting for system wide charge current limit, and managed BMS support.

See the GX manual and search for DVCC for a more detailed description of these acronyms, features and behaviour.

Managed batteries

This release adds auto-configuration profiles for WeCo and FinDreams batteries to force enable DVCC and SVS, and disable STS.

Connection stability of the Cerbo GX BMS-Can 500kbps port has been improved. It is now no longer necessary to power cycle the GX after having connected a battery BMS with a different baudrate.

We’ve made some changes internally to the process for how we work with managed lithium batteries. The market has matured a lot over the years since we started supporting BMS-Can and we now have a very robust and reliable protocol, with many partners, and 100,000’s of managed lithium battery systems installed in the field around the world.

This has allowed us streamline auto-configuration profiles for adding new compatible batteries.

Generator monitoring

This update brings more detailed diagnostics for DSE generator controllers, including error code descriptions, engine start counts, and tank level monitoring (also now supported by ComAp controllers).

For advanced users, we’ve added Modbus-TCP registers for setting the boost factor, PowerAssist & Inverter output voltage settings for VE.Bus devices (Multis, Quattros). These are used to optimise hybrid generator systems.

Multi RS

This release adds Multi RS support for 3 phase visualisation in the overview and VRM.

Custom tracker names are also now supported by Multi RS.

There is a new option to set the Multi RS to passthrough mode. In this mode the AC output is taken directly from the AC input and the inverter and AC charger are turned off, while the solar charger remains active.

Additional Features and Developer Updates:

We now have Ukrainian language support, improved compatibility with IMT Sensors (adding 2nd sensor support), and removed support for the Quby AC sensor.

Temperature calibration parameters have been added to Ekrano GX and Cerbo GX, allowing an installer to manually offset the temperature readings of the Cerbo and Ekrano built-in temperature ports.

Under the hood, we’ve transitioned to FlashMQ for MQTT brokering, enhancing performance and reducing CPU load. If you use the MQTT API there may be some changes required to your code.

NMEA2000 & SignalK

Support has been added for reading generic alternator data. See the release notes for the requirements. This is known to work with the Current monitor of Across Ocean Systems.

Updated SignalK Server from v1.46.3 to v2.5.0 & updated signal-venus-plugin from v1.30.2 to v1.34.0

Many more changes: change log

There are many more improvements, bug fixes and under-the-hood updates. To read the details, see the full change log by logging into Victron Professional and selecting ‘Firmware’ -> ‘Venus OS’ -> ‘firmware changelog’.

Specifically for Node-RED, changes in this release are already itemised in the changelog, and are also covered in much more detail in this blog post. 

Note there were several interim releases of Venus OS between our last blog on v3.10 and V3.20 – you can find more details in these Victron Professional news links:

• 3.14
• 3.13
• 3.12

How to install

Information about how to install the firmware is in the manual of your GX Device. Quick links to the relevant pages can be found here: Ekrano GX, Cerbo GX, Color Control GX and for the Venus GX.

—

Until next time, sincerely yours,

Matthijs Vader
Victron Energy BV

The post Venus OS v3.20 – Orion XS, new Marine MFD app and more appeared first on Victron Energy.