Multiplus Model Names have so many numbers! That’s because they pack a lot of features into one device. Let’s break it down with these examples:
MultiPlus-II 48/10000/140-100/100 230V
MultiPlus-II 24/3000/70-32 230V GX
1. Model Name: MultiPlus-II
The name indicates that this is a Victron Energy MultiPlus-II inverter/charger. A multiplus is an advanced system capable of inverting DC power (from batteries) into AC power (for appliances), charging batteries from an AC source, and managing energy systems.
The MultiPlus-II range is similar to the MultiPlus but has some additional advanced features like built-in support for parallel and three-phase operation, allowing multiple units to work together seamlessly.
2. Battery Voltage
The first number (e.g., 48 or 24) refers to the battery bank's nominal voltage that the device is designed to work with. For example:
· 48 means the inverter/charger works with a 48V battery system.
· 24 means it works with a 24V battery system.
This depends on the batteries you plan to use or the size/scope of the energy system.
3. Inverter Power Output
The second number (e.g., 10000 or 3000) refers to the continuous inverter power output in volt-amperes (VA). This tells you how much AC power the inverter can provide continuously. For example:
· 10000 VA = 10,000 VA (equivalent to ~8,000 watts at 0.8 power factor for typical devices).
· 3000 VA = 3,000 VA (equivalent to ~2,400 watts at 0.8 power factor).
This number essentially determines the total electrical load (e.g., appliances) the device can handle simultaneously.
4. Charger Current
The third number (e.g., 140 or 70) refers to the maximum battery charging current in amps when charging from an AC source (like a generator or the grid). For example:
· 140 amps (on a 48V system) means the device can charge the battery bank at a maximum rate of 140 amps.
· 70 amps (on a 24V system) means it can charge the battery bank at a maximum rate of 70 amps.
This directly impacts how quickly the system will recharge batteries when connected to a charging source.
5. AC Input Current
The last number before the voltage specification, such as 100/100 or -32, indicates the maximum AC input current that the device can draw from an external source (like the grid or generator). This number ensures that the system doesn’t overload its input source. For example:
· 100/100 amps (dual-input capability, like grid + generator).
· 32 amps (single input, like grid or generator).
This is important for matching the device to the external source being used.
6. Nominal AC Voltage
At the end of the name, you'll see the AC voltage (e.g., 230V). This specifies the output voltage that the inverter will provide to power appliances. Most residential setups use 230V (for Europe and many other regions) or 120V (for North America, depending on the region).
7. Special Features (e.g., GX)
Some models come with additional suffixes, such as GX, which means the device has built-in communication capabilities (such as the integrated GX Module). This allows you to monitor and control your energy system remotely through online or local interfaces (like Victron's VRM portal) and interact with other smart devices.
Example Breakdown:
(a) MultiPlus-II 48/10000/140-100/100 230V
· 48: Works with a 48V battery system.
· 10000: Provides up to 10,000 VA (approx. ~8,000 W continuous).
· 140: Can charge batteries with up to 140 amps.
· 100/100: Can draw a maximum of 100 amps from two AC sources (e.g., grid + generator).
· 230V: Provides 230V AC output (for appliances).
(b) MultiPlus-II 24/3000/70-32 230V GX
· 24: Works with a 24V battery system.
· 3000: Provides up to 3,000 VA (approx. ~2,400 W continuous).
· 70: Can charge batteries with up to 70 amps.
· -32: Can draw a maximum of 32 amps from an AC source (e.g., grid or generator).
· 230V: Provides 230V AC output (for appliances).
· GX: Built-in communication module for monitoring and control.
Tips for Beginners
1. Match the system to your needs:
a. Choose the correct battery bank voltage (24V or 48V) based on the size and capacity of your energy system.
b. Pick a model with sufficient inverter power for your appliances.
c. Make sure the charger's current matches the capacity of your batteries.
2. Plan for future expansion. If you are adding adding more batteries or appliances, consider buying a model with greater capacities than immediately needed.
3. Consulting a system designer or installer is always highly recommended. Email technical@luxsolar.co.nz with any questions.