Synchronised charging
Synchronised charging capability enables multiple compatible chargers to be combined together in a common VE.Smart network, allowing the chargers to operate in unison as if they were one large charger.
The chargers will synchronise the charge algorithm between themselves with no further hardware or physical connections required, and simultaneously change charge states.
Synchronised charging works by systematically prioritising all chargers and assigning one as the 'master', this charger then controls the charge stage of all other 'slave' chargers. In case the initial 'master' is disconnected from the VE.Smart Network for any reason (out of Bluetooth range for example), another charger will be systematically reassigned as the 'master' and take over control; this can also be reversed if communication with the initial 'master' (that has a higher priority) is re-established. The 'master' charger can not be manually selected.
Synchronised charging does not regulate or equalise the current output of multiple chargers, each charger still has total control over it's own current output. Accordingly, current output variation between multiple chargers is normal (primarily dependent on cable resistance and charging conditions) and a total system current output limit cannot be configured.
Synchronised charging can be setup with different charger types, providing they are VE.Smart Networking compatible (this includes compatible Blue Smart IP22 chargers, Smart IP43 chargers and SmartSolar MPPT solar chargers). Charging from solar chargers is not prioritised over mains supply chargers, so in some installations (primarily dependent on cable resistance and charging conditions) it is possible for solar power to be underutilised.
Synchronised charging can also be used in conjunction with a battery monitor (BMV, SmartShunt, Smart Battery Sense or VE.Bus Smart Dongle) to provide voltage, temperature and/or current sense data to the chargers in a common VE.Smart network; refer to the 'Operation > VE.Smart Networking > Voltage sense / Temperature sense / Current sense' sections for more information.
In the absence of a battery monitor providing current-sense data (requires a BMV or SmartShunt), the charge current from each individual charger is combined by the 'master' and referenced against the tail current setting.