victron energy Argofet 2002 Battery Isolator Instruction Manual
- June 16, 2024
- victron energy
Table of Contents
Victron Energy Argofet 2002 Battery Isolator
Specifications
- Voltage Loss: Less than 0.02 Volt at low current, averages 0.1 Volt at higher currents
- System Voltage: 12V or 24V auto-ranging
- Energize Input: Current-limited input for alternator energization
Product Usage Instructions
Warning:
Mount the Argodiode on a non-flammable surface only, as it can become hot.
No Voltage Loss
Unlike Argodiode battery isolators, Argofet isolators have virtually no voltage loss. At low current, the voltage drop is less than 0.02 Volt, and it averages 0.1 Volt at higher currents.
Alternator Energize Input
Some alternators require DC voltage on the B+ output to start charging. The Argofet isolators have a special current-limited energize input that powers the B+ when the engine run/stop switch is closed. This input prevents any return voltage/current from the batteries to the B+, ensuring that the alternator starts charging.
Installatio n
Follow the steps below for proper installation:
- Always disconnect the battery minus cables before making alterations to the electrical system.
- Connect the positive output of the supplying source (alternator) to the input of the battery isolator.
- Connect the positive connection of the battery sets to output 1, 2, and (optional) 3 respectively.
- Connect the ‘Energize’ blade terminal to the engine run/stop switch negative bus bar.
The blue LED on the Argofet will light up when voltage is present on its input.
FAQ
Q: What is the advantage of using FET (Field Effect Transistor) battery isolators?
A: The main advantage of FET battery isolators is the very low voltage loss they offer, less than 0.02 Volt at low current and 0.1. Volt at maximum current.
Q: Can the Argofet be used with both 12V and 24V systems?
A: Yes, the Argofet automatically adjusts to the system’s voltage, supporting both 12V and 24V systems.
Q: Where can I find more information about battery charging and battery isolators?
A: You can find more information in our book “Elektriciteit aboard,” which is available for free at Victron Energy and can be accessed on our website at www.victronenergy.com.
ARGOFET Battery Isolator with alternator energize input
Warning: hot surface, mount the Argodiode on a non-flammable surface only!
No voltage loss
In contrast with Argodiode battery isolators, Argofet isolators have virtually
no voltage loss. Voltage drop is less than 0,02 Volt at low current and
averages 0,1 Volt at higher currents.
When using Argofet Battery Isolators, there is no need to also increase the
output voltage of the alternator. Care should be taken however to keep cable
lengths short and of sufficient cross section.
Example:
When a current of 100 A flows through a cable of 50 mm² cross section (AWG 0)
and 10 m length (30 ft), the voltage drop over the cable will be 0,26 Volt.
Similarly a current of 50 A through a cable of 10 mm² cross section (AWG 7)
and 5 m length (15 ft) will result in a voltage drop of 0,35 Volt!
12/24 Volt auto-ranging
The Argofet will automatically adjust to a 12V or 24V system.
Alternator energize input
Some alternators need DC voltage on the B+ output to start charging. DC will
be present when the alternator is directly connected to a battery. Inserting a
Diode or FET splitter will however prevent any return voltage/current from the
batteries to the B+, and the alternator will not start.
The new Argofet isolators have a special current limited energize input that
will power the B+ when the engine run/stop switch is closed.
Installation
- Always disconnect the battery minus cables before making alterations to the electrical system.
- Connect the positive output of the supplying source (alternator) to the input of the battery isolator.
- Connect the positive connection of the battery sets to output 1, 2, and (optional) 3 respectively.
- Connect the ‘Energize’ blade terminal to the engine run/stop switch (optional). Minimum cable cross-section: 2,5 mm².
- Connect the ‘Ground’ blade terminal to the common negative bus bar. Minimum cable cross-section: 2,5 mm².
- Connect the negative poles of the battery sets to the common negative bus bar.
The blue LED will light up when voltage is present on the input of the Argofet.
Victron Energy bv / De Paal 35 / 1351 JG ALMERE / The Netherlands www.victronenergy.com / e-mail: [email protected]