Differences

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--- multiplus_faq [2019-12-01 23:50] – updated ve-configure to veconfigure guy_stewart
+++ multiplus_faq [2020-06-23 06:05] – [Software Changes] mvader
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-Some generators are more suitable than others for use with inverter/chargers, please talk to your local Victron Dealer before purchasing a generator and they may be able to advise you on locally available units that have been tested and are known to be good.
+Some generators are more suitable than others for use with inverter/chargers, please talk to [[https://www.victronenergy.com/where-to-buy|your local Victron Dealer]] before purchasing a generator and they may be able to advise you on locally available units that have been tested and are known to be good. It is recommended to get a generator from a supplier that is local to you for issues and servicing.
 For example; some things to look for when selecting a generator is a high quality alternator and AVR (auto voltage regulation).
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 If your generator is smaller than the recommended size for your inverter/charger, you will definitely need to adjust the settings on the inverter/charger and reduce the AC input current limit, and/or a DC charge current limit to prevent overloading the generator.
+If you do want an inverter based generator (eg for noise reasons under lower loading), get one that is at least 30% larger than required than an equivalent AVR based model to help prevent nuisance overloads.
+It is also important to look at the DUTY CYCLE rating of the generator. Some generators are marketed for their peak output, but may only be designed to sustain 50% of that peak load rating for longer periods of time.
+Battery charging is a very heavy use case load for a generator, so make sure it is up to the job, and the installation has plenty of good airflow and ventilation when operating to allow for heat to dissipate.
+Some generators are only designed to operate for several hours, before requiring time to rest and cool down. Make sure this limitation is part of your load profile and system design.
 ==== Operation ====
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-==== Software Changes ====
+==== Software Settings ====
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 ====== Still not connecting? ======
-If the unit is still not connecting, switch the Multi over to Charger only mode.
+If the unit is still not connecting,
+Check the VE.Bus Monitor and AC Input Connection timer
+{{::veconfige_107016584.png?direct|}}
+With Multi firmwares xxyy460 and up, VEConfig will indicate why the AC Input is rejected and will also show an indication of the remaining waiting time as a blue bar.
+After the waiting time the unit will connect to AC input provided that there is no assistant which prevents the unit from connecting to grid and that the required relay test is performed.
+Switch the Multi over to Charger only mode.
 Try with a different generator.
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 [[https://www.victronenergy.com/upload/documents/White-paper-Using-the-MultiPlus-to-reduce-operating-cost-of-a-generator-EN.pdf|Using the Multiplus to reduce operating cost of a generator]] - Fuel Saving White-paper.
+[[https://www.victronenergy.com/upload/documents/VE_Marine_generator_test_RVA_07-jan-2008.pdf|Marine Generator Test]] - Detailed testing and the application of marine diesel powered generators in small hybrid power systems
 [[https://www.victronenergy.com/live/auto-generator-start-stop:start|Automatic Generator start/stop]] - Outline and reference for generator auto-start functionality in Victron systems.