6. Setup
6.1. Charge modes
There are 3 integrated charge modes (Normal, High and Li-Ion), as well as an optional Recondition stage that can be included (except for Li-ion mode).
The integrated charge modes combined with adaptive charge logic are well suited for most common battery types; such as flooded lead-acid, AGM, Gel and LiFePO4.
The required charge mode can be selected via the MODE button or VictronConnect app - refer to the 'Settings - Using the MODE button' and 'Settings - Using VictronConnect' sections for more information.
If necessary, advanced configuration with user defined settings is possible using the VictronConnect app and a Bluetooth enabled device (such as a mobile phone or tablet) - refer to the 'Advanced Configuration' section for more information.
Any settings made are stored and will not be lost when the charger is disconnected from mains power or the battery.
6.1.1. Charge voltage
By simply selecting the integrated charge mode appropriate for the battery type being charged, (refer to the battery manufacturer’s recommendations) the voltage settings for each charge stage will be altered according to the table below:
Notice
Temperature Compensation: Charge voltage is automatically compensated depending on ambient temperature (except for Li-ion mode or if manually disabled) - refer to the 'Operation - Temperature compensation’ section for more information.
6.1.2. Recondition mode
If enabled the recondition stage is included in the charge cycle; use only if required as a corrective/maintenance action - refer to the 'Operation - Charge algorithm' section for more information.
When the recondition mode is enabled the RECONDITION LED will be illuminated and blink during recondition stage.
Recondition mode can be enabled and disabled via the MODE button or VictronConnect app - refer to the 'Settings - Using the MODE button' and 'Settings - Using VictronConnect' sections for more information.
6.1.3. Low current mode
If enabled the maximum charge current is limited to a significantly reduced level (varies per model - refer to 'Specification' section for more information) compared to the nominal maximum charge current.
Low current mode is recommended when charging lower capacity batteries with a high current charger; charging at an excessive charge current can cause premature battery degradation and overheating.
Typically the maximum charge current for lead acid batteries should not exceed ~0.3C (more than 30% of the battery capacity in Ah) and the maximum charge current for LiFePO4 batteries should exceed ~0.5C (more than 50% of the battery capacity in Ah).
When low current mode is enabled the LOW LED will blink.
Low current mode can be enabled and disabled via the MODE button or VictronConnect app - refer to the 'Settings - Using the MODE button' and 'Settings - Using VictronConnect' sections for more information.
6.2. Using the MODE button
Selection of an integrated charge mode and other general settings can be made using the physical MODE button on the charger.
To select an integrated charge mode using the MODE button:
Briefly press the MODE button to cycle through the available charge mode options; the LED beside the currently selected charge mode will be illuminated.
If required, activate recondition mode by continuing to cycle through the available options; when enabled the RECONDITION LED will be illuminated in addition to the selected charge mode LED.
If required, activate low current mode (reduced charge current) by pressing and holding the MODE button for 3 seconds; when enabled the LOW LED will blink.
To deactivate low current mode, also press and hold the MODE button for 3 seconds.
6.3. Using VictronConnect
Selection of an integrated charge mode and other general settings can also be made with a Bluetooth enabled device (such as a mobile phone or tablet), using the VictronConnect app.
For further details about the VictonConnect app refer to the online user manual: https://www.victronenergy.com/live/victronconnect:start
To select an integrated charge mode using VictronConnect:
Download and install the VictronConnect app.
The VictronConnect app can be downloaded from the following locations:
Android – Google Play Store
iOS/Mac – Apple App Store
Enable Bluetooth on the mobile phone or tablet (if not already enabled).
Open the VictronConnect app and look for the Phoenix Smart IP43 Charger in the 'LOCAL' page, if it doesn’t automatically appear perform a manual scan for devices in range by selecting the ‘scan’ button (round orange button with circular arrow) in the bottom right corner.
Select the Phoenix Smart IP43 Charger from the 'LOCAL' device list.
During initial connection a ‘Bluetooth pairing request’ prompt will appear requesting the Bluetooth PIN code; enter the default PIN code 000000.
Access the 'Settings' menu by selecting the ‘Setting’ icon (gear) in the top right corner.
Access the 'Battery settings' menu by selecting the ‘Battery settings' menu option.
Expand the 'Battery preset' drop-down menu, then select 'Built-in preset' or alternatively 'Select preset' for more specialised battery types.
Review the available options and select the most appropriate charge preset, then press 'OK'.
If required, set a lower maximum charge current:
Access the 'Maximum charge current' menu by selecting the ‘Maximum charge current' menu option.
Review the available options and select the most appropriate maximum charge current preset (Minimum / Low / Maximum) or specify an alternative current (between the minimum and maximum limits) using the numeric input controls near the bottom.
Confirm that all the new settings and related charge voltages have been implemented correctly and are suitable. Illumination of the indicator LEDs on the Phoenix Smart IP43 Charger will also update according to the selected charge mode and settings implemented.
6.4. Bluetooth
6.4.1. Changing the PIN code
To prevent an unauthorised Bluetooth connection, it is highly recommended to change the default PIN code.
To change the Bluetooth PIN code:
Complete initial Bluetooth pairing and connection using the default PIN code (000000)
Access the ‘device options’ by selecting the 'settings' icon (gear) in the top right corner, then the 'device options' icon (three vertical dots).
Open the 'Product info' page by selecting 'Product info’.
Beside ‘Pin code’ select ‘CHANGE’ to open the ‘Change PIN code’ window.
Enter the current and new PIN code (twice), then select OK; avoid using an obvious PIN code that is easy for someone else to guess, such as 111111 or 123456.
6.4.2. Resetting the PIN code
If the PIN code is forgotten or lost, it can be easily reset to the default 000000 using the VictronConnect app.
To reset the Bluetooth PIN code:
Locate the blue smart charger in the LOCAL page and select the ‘device options’ icon (three vertical dots) on the right side of the description.
Select 'Reset PIN code' from the pop-up prompt.
Enter the PUK code and select ‘OK’. The PUK code is located on a label stuck to the side of the Phoenix Smart IP43 Charger.
To reset the Bluetooth PIN code:
Depress and hold the MODE button (on the Phoenix Smart IP43 Charger) for 10 seconds.
After 10 seconds have elapsed all charge mode LEDs will blink twice to indicate that the PIN code has been reset.
Notice
During this procedure:
The PIN code is reset to default (000000)
Any active Bluetooth connections are disconnected
All Bluetooth pairing information is cleared
Subsequently, before attempting to re-connect it’s also necessary to remove/clear the Phoenix Smart IP43 Charger Bluetooth pairing information from any devices (mobile phones or tablets) that were previously paired.
6.4.3. Disabling Bluetooth
It is possible to totally disable Bluetooth communication if desired.
Typically, there is no need to disable Bluetooth since unauthorised access is protected with a PIN code, but certain situations may warrant it for an even higher level of security.
To disable Bluetooth:
Complete initial Bluetooth pairing and connection using the default PIN code (000000) or the current PIN code set.
Access the ‘device options’ by selecting the 'settings' icon (gear) in the top right corner, then the 'device options' icon (three vertical dots).
Open the 'Product info' page by selecting 'Product info'.
Beside 'Bluetooth Enabled' select 'DISABLE' to open the 'Disable Bluetooth' window.
Tick the checkbox and then select ‘OK' as confirmation.
Bluetooth will now be disabled, but can be re-enabled again.
6.4.4. Re-enabling Bluetooth
It is possible to re-enable Bluetooth using the MODE button.
To re-enable Bluetooth:
Depress and hold the MODE button (on the Phoenix Smart IP43 Charger) for 10 seconds.
After 10 seconds have elapsed all charge mode LEDs will blink twice to indicate that Bluetooth has been re-enabled, and all Bluetooth settings reset.
Notice
During this procedure:
Bluetooth is re-enabled
The PIN code is reset to default (000000)
Any active Bluetooth connections are disconnected
All Bluetooth pairing information is cleared
Subsequently, before attempting to re-connect it’s also necessary to remove/clear the Phoenix Smart IP43 Charger Bluetooth pairing information from any devices (mobile phones or tablets) that were previously paired.
6.5. VE.Smart Networking
VE.Smart Networking enables Bluetooth connectivity and communication between multiple Victron products to further enhance the charge cycle. Refer to the 'Operation - VE.Smart Networking' section for more information.
After VE.Smart networking compatible hardware is installed, VE.Smart networking needs to be setup/enabled.
6.5.1. Voltage, temperature and current sense
To setup a VE.Smart Network with Volt-Sense / Temp-Sense / Current-Sense:
Locate and select the battery monitor (BMV, SmartShunt, Smart Battery Sense or VE.Bus Smart Dongle) from the device list on the LOCAL page.
If prompted, complete initial Bluetooth pairing and connection; the default PIN code is 000000.
Access the settings menu by selecting the 'settings' icon (gear) in the top right corner.
Open the VE.Smart networking page by selecting 'VE.Smart networking'.
Select 'CREATE NETWORK' (or 'JOIN NETWORK' if the VE.Smart network has already been created).
Enter a name to identify the VE.Smart network and select 'OK' to the prompts.
Once setup, details of the data being transmitted to the VE.Smart network are shown on the VE.Smart networking page.
Exit the device by selecting the back 'arrow' icon and 'close' icon (cross) in the top left corner.
Locate and select the Phoenix Smart IP43 Charger from the device list on the LOCAL page.
If prompted, complete initial Bluetooth pairing and connection; the default PIN code is 000000.
Access the ‘settings’ menu by selecting the 'settings' icon (gear) in the top right corner.
Open the 'VE.Smart networking' page by selecting 'VE.Smart networking'.
Select 'JOIN EXISTING'.
Locate and select the VE.Smart network previously setup (or the network you want to join if there are multiple), then select 'OK' to the prompts.
The VE.Smart network is now configured, details of the data being received from the VE.Smart network are shown on the VE.Smart network page.
Once successfully configured:
The VE.Smart network symbol will appear in the top right corner of the STATUS screen (both the battery monitor and the charger).
The charge state LED on the charger (bulk / absorption / float / storage) will blink every 4 seconds.
For systems with multiple compatible chargers, repeat the relevant steps above for each additional charger.
Notice
Only one battery monitor (BMV, SmartShunt, Smart Battery Sense or VE.Bus Smart Dongle) can be included in a VE.Smart network.
All battery monitor connections (voltage sensing cables, temperature sensor and current shunt) and chargers in a common VE. Smart network must be connected to the same battery / battery bank.
The maximum number of devices permitted in a VE.Smart network is 10.
Communication via VE.Smart networking requires all devices to be located within Bluetooth range of each other. Systems with poor or intermittent Bluetooth signal between devices will experience connection issues. Signal strength between devices can be checked in the VictronConnect VE.Smart networking page.
Multiple chargers in a common VE.Smart network must have the same charge settings, since the 'master' can change dynamically any charger could become the 'master'.
Multiple chargers in a common VE.Smart network do not need to be the same model, they just need to be VE.Smart Networking compatible (this includes VE.Smart Networking compatible Blue Smart chargers, Smart IP43 chargers and MPPT solar chargers).
Some older devices are not VE.Smart networking compatible, refer to the product manual for confirmation.
6.5.2. Synchronised charging
To setup a VE.Smart Network with Synchronised charging:
Locate and select the Phoenix Smart IP43 Charger from the device list on the LOCAL page.
If prompted, complete initial Bluetooth pairing and connection; the default PIN code is 000000.
Access the ‘settings’ menu by selecting the 'settings' icon (gear) in the top right corner.
Open the VE.Smart networking page by selecting 'VE.Smart networking'.
Select 'CREATE NETWORK' (or 'JOIN NETWORK' if the VE.Smart network has already been created).
Enter a name to identify the VE.Smart network and select 'OK' to the prompts.
Once setup, details of the data being transmitted to the VE.Smart network are shown on the VE.Smart networking page.
Exit the device by selecting the back 'arrow' icon and 'close' icon (cross) in the top left corner.
Locate and select another VE.Smart Networking compatible charger from the device list on the LOCAL page.
If prompted, complete initial Bluetooth pairing and connection; the default PIN code is 000000.
Access the settings menu by selecting the 'settings' icon (gear) in the top right corner.
Open the 'VE.Smart networking' page by selecting 'VE.Smart networking'.
Select 'JOIN EXISTING'.
Locate and select the VE.Smart network previously setup (or the network you want to join if there are multiple), then select 'OK' to the prompts.
The VE.Smart network is now configured, details of the syncronised chargers in the VE.Smart network are shown on the VE.Smart network page.
Once successfully configured:
The VE.Smart network symbol will appear in the top right corner of the STATUS screen (of each charger in the network).
The charge state LED on the charger (bulk / absorption / float / storage) will blink every 4 seconds.
For systems with multiple compatible chargers, repeat the relevant steps above for each additional charger.
Notice
Only one battery monitor (BMV, SmartShunt, Smart Battery Sense or VE.Bus Smart Dongle) can be included in a VE.Smart network.
All battery monitor connections (voltage sensing cables, temperature sensor and current shunt) and chargers in a common VE. Smart network must be connected to the same battery / battery bank.
The maximum number of devices permitted in a VE.Smart network is 10.
Communication via VE.Smart networking requires all devices to be located within Bluetooth range of each other. Systems with poor or intermittent Bluetooth signal between devices will experience connection issues. Signal strength between devices can be checked in the VictronConnect VE.Smart networking page.
Multiple chargers in a common VE.Smart network must have the same charge settings, since the 'master' can change dynamically any charger could become the 'master'.
Multiple chargers in a common VE.Smart network do not need to be the same model, they just need to be VE.Smart Networking compatible (this includes VE.Smart Networking compatible Blue Smart chargers, Smart IP43 chargers and MPPT solar chargers).
Some older devices are not VE.Smart networking compatible, refer to the product manual for confirmation.
6.6. System reset
It is possible to perform a full system reset to restore all charger/battery related settings to their default value; using the VictronConnect app.
Note that this does not reset any Bluetooth related settings, such as the PIN code or pairing information.
To perform a system reset:
Complete initial Bluetooth pairing and connection using the default PIN code (000000).
Access the ‘device options’ by selecting the 'settings' icon (gear) in the top right corner, then the 'device options' icon (three vertical dots).
Open the 'restore device' page by selecting 'Reset to defaults’.
Select ‘YES’ to reset all settings to factory defaults.