With the Argodiode battery separation, two or more batteries can be charged simultaneously via an alternator without connecting the batteries to each other. For example, discharging the additional battery does not automatically lead to discharging the starter battery. Low voltage drop due to the use of high-efficiency Schottky diodes.

Victron Argodiode 180-3AC battery isolator

Battery isolating diodes allow several batteries to be charged simultaneously from one power source without the individual batteries being connected to one another. This means that the on-board battery can be charged, for example, without the starter battery being discharged at the same time. The use of modern Shottky diodes also keeps the voltage loss to a minimum. It is around 0.3 V at low currents and around 0.45 V at nominal current. All models in this series are equipped with a compensation diode that slightly increases the output voltage of the alternator in order to compensate for the voltage loss caused by the Shottky diodes. You can find more information in our book "Always Power". If the isolating diode is connected to the wiring between the alternator and the battery without further measures, a voltage loss occurs, which leads to incomplete charging and premature aging of the battery.

Generator starting excitation

Some types of generators require a direct voltage at the B+ pole for starting excitation. On the one hand, the connection between the battery and the generator provides a direct cable connection. On the other hand, however, the isolating diode prevents the current from flowing back, so that the generator does not start. The new 802AC battery isolating diode has a special current-limited connection for starting excitation when the generator is started.

Argodiodes Overview

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