Misc Solar questions - part 2

[howson]

So it sounds like I need a MK3-USB adapter to program the Multiplus and then the VE. Bus Smart Dongle to monitor it with Victron Connect?

Go with the CCGX, Brian! Yes, I know it's $500, but it's ultra-cool and will give you the ability to monitor your entire system remotely (as long as the CCGX is connected to the internet by WiFi or a wired connection) and of course through it's screen.

For the heck of it I fired up the VRM portal and this is the current status of my system. (The CCGX screen looks exactly the same.) Been an overcast, gray day here in NW Florida. Note I don't have shore power connected thus that block is empty.




The bluetooth dongle is $78.

Cry once...

[bertschb]

Go with the CCGX, Brian!

I think I'm going to go with the new Cerbo GX and GX Touch 50. The Cerbo has wifi and Bluetooth built in so I don't think I need a separate Bluetooth dongle for the Multiplus but I'm still researching that.

[howson]

I think I'm going to go with the new Cerbo GX and GX Touch 50. The Cerbo has wifi and Bluetooth built in so I don't think I need a separate Bluetooth dongle for the Multiplus but I'm still researching that.

That's what I'd get (it wasn't available when I bought my CCGX). Being able to remotely mount the display and have the Cerbo near all the stuff that needs to network together is a great combo.

For us weekend warriors installing something like this is a major project--but I sure do like it (can you tell?) and I would do it again...though not 100% sold on the solar. It's nice, but there's too many restrictions. I just had to turn down a boondocking opportunity because all the sites are completely covered in trees. I don't want to plan on running a generator to recharge the batteries. :(

[ncitro]

howson bertschb

You are right, I misspoke. No built in bluetooth, you need the smart dongle for that. I did get one for mine and tried it out, but you get such limited access with it I returned it. I kept the MK3 (I use a Raspberry Pi rather than the Cerbo so I need the MK3 for that anyway) and unplug it from my Pi and into my laptop when I need to mess with the settings (have not had to do since I got it dialed in).

As far as the MK3, it will work with pretty much anything but an iPhone or iPad. Mac computer, PC, Android phone, or Android tablet all work fine. I use my MacBook to configure mine and it is flawless. Unfortunately iPhone access is limited to Bluetooth via the smart dongle, which again you cannot adjust settings on.

All that said it is a great system and I love the central point of control with the Pi. I strongly recommend you go with the Cerbo or CCGX. We went through this with Yoda and I looked up why you would go with one or the other. The Cerbo & GX Touch 50 is a bit more expensive but makes the wiring a bit easier since the tie together point can be located near all your "stuff".

[bertschb]

Yes, the Cerbo and Touch 50 look good to me - so far. I'm still trying to determine if I need a separate BT module. It seems to me that since the Cerbo connects to the Multiplus (via RJ-45?) and the Cerbo has BT that I shouldn't need a separate BT module. Still watching YT videos and reading white papers to understand the Victron products better.