Now you can prioritize solar and wind over shore power

Victron Energy has just released a new version of Venus OS, the software in the GX monitoring range such as Cerbo GX, and the recently launched Ekrano GX. The new version is called 3.10 and below are some of the highlights.

Solar and Wind Priority

This is a new feature, designed for wear Cars, trucks and other systems with shore power connection. Solar and wind priority starts working when it is connected to land. It looks thereå to that solar & wind power is used to charge the battery, while shore current is used to prevent the battery from being too deeply discharged.

Most of the functionality is contained within itself. the inverter/charger, and the GX is only used to show the user what the system is doing, as well as giving the possibility to override the system and bring that of charging the battery at full power.

For further details, see the Solar and Wind Priority Document. We will be releasing additional information soon, including a promotional and how-to video.

Generator Service Interval

A new feature, configure a service interval in hours and få an automatic message when it's time for service.

Generator autostart mode alarm

This new option helps prevent an unintentionally disabled autostart mode that could ultimately result in system shutdown – empty batteries. Here's the new setting:

When activated it will an alarm to be displayed if autostart has been disabled for more than 10 minutes:

Integration with ComAp Generator Controllers

ComAp is a well-known brand that manufactures generator controllers. As of Venus OS v3.10, the GX devices are compatible with ComAp CM Ethernet module.

Data read from ComAp är:

• AC readings: voltage, current, power, frequency
• Motor readings: RPM, cooling; oil temperature, oil pressure, load percentage, operating hours and starter battery voltage
• Status (start, stopped, error, recovery and so on)
• Autostart status (off, manual, auto, test)

New ESS setting: "Self-use from n battery"

This setting allows ESS to only use battery power for significant loads. It is relevant for ESS systems with (a) a close meter, (b) fairly significant non-essential loads, (c) Input disabled. The setting allows battery banks to be dimensioned to accommodate; critical loads during the night, without discharging the battery in the non-essential loads.

Here is the new setting, set on default setting "All system loads":

Here is the new option, "Critical Only loads":

Many more changes: changelog

There are many more improvements, bug fixes and updates under the hood. To unlock the details, view the full changelog by logging in to Victron Professional and select 'Firmware' -> 'Venus Olympics' -> 'firmware changelog'.

How to install

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