Description
Victron Argo 160A 2-Battery Isolator | Boat Supply Store
Prevent parasitic drain on auxiliary power banks when your primary starting battery requires a full charge. The Victron Argo Diode Battery Isolator leverages advanced Schottky diodes, exhibiting a minimal voltage drop of 0.3V-0.45V, ensuring robust and efficient charging for up to two batteries from a single alternator. This unit is essential for maintaining the health of your battery bank on offshore fishing platforms or any vessel reliant on independent battery banks for critical systems.
Key Features
- Simultaneous charging of two independent battery banks from a single power source.
- Prevents battery discharge between connected batteries, safeguarding your starting power.
- Minimized voltage drop (0.3V-0.45V) via high-efficiency Schottky diodes.
- Integrated compensation diode counteracts inherent voltage losses for optimal charging.
- 160 Amp continuous rating accommodates high-demand charging requirements.
- Durable construction designed for demanding marine environments.
- Compact form factor for straightforward installation.
- Ensures optimal battery health by preventing over-discharge and uneven charging.
Specifications
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Victron Energy |
| Amperage Rating | 160 Amp |
| Number of Batteries Supported | 2 |
| Voltage Drop | 0.3V-0.45V |
| Diode Type | Schottky |
| Includes Compensation Diode | Yes |
Who This Is For
Boat owners requiring independent charging of multiple battery banks from a single alternator, such as those powering separate house and start circuits. Also suitable for RVs and off-grid power systems needing reliable dual battery management.
How It Compares
| Feature | Victron Argo 160A 2-Battery Isolator | Competitor |
|---|---|---|
| Amperage Rating | 160A | 500A, 100A continuous |
| Number of Batteries Supported | 2 | 2, 2 |
| Technology Type | Diode Battery Isolator | Automatic Charging Relay (ACR), Manual Dual Battery Switch |
| Voltage Drop | 0.3V - 0.45V | Not applicable (relay-based), Not applicable |
Common Concerns Answered
Is the voltage drop a significant issue for sensitive electronics?
While the Victron Argo Diode Battery Isolator has a minimal voltage drop of 0.3V-0.45V, users with extremely sensitive electronics may wish to verify their power system's tolerance. The integrated compensation diode helps mitigate this effect.
Is the installation straightforward?
Installation requires a moderate understanding of DC electrical systems, including proper wiring, crimping, and securing connections. For those unfamiliar with marine electrical work, professional installation is recommended to ensure optimal performance and safety.
What makes this isolator a good investment?
The Victron Argo Diode Battery Isolator offers a reliable and efficient solution for multi-battery charging, preventing cross-discharge and ensuring each battery receives optimal charging current, thereby extending battery lifespan and guaranteeing power availability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a diode battery isolator?
A diode battery isolator uses diodes to allow current flow in only one direction, enabling a single charging source, like an alternator, to charge multiple batteries independently without allowing discharge between them.
How does the Victron Argo Diode Battery Isolator work?
It uses a series of diodes to route the alternator's output to each battery individually, allowing them to be charged simultaneously while preventing the discharge of one battery into another when the charging source is inactive.
What is the voltage drop of the Victron Argo Diode Battery Isolator?
The voltage drop is approximately 0.3V at low current and increases to around 0.45V at the rated output of 160 Amps, due to the characteristics of the Schottky diodes used.
Can I charge two batteries simultaneously with this isolator?
Yes, the Victron Argo Diode Battery Isolator is specifically designed to allow simultaneous charging of two separate batteries from a single charging source.
What is the amperage rating of this isolator?
This isolator has a maximum continuous amperage rating of 160 Amps, suitable for charging systems with high output alternators.
