Victron Energy VE.Direct Smart Dongle (Bluetooth) User Manual

1. Introduction

The Victron Energy VE.Direct Smart Dongle is designed to provide wireless monitoring and configuration capabilities for Victron Energy products equipped with a VE.Direct port. This dongle enables users to access real-time data, historical values, and adjust settings directly from their iOS or Android devices via the VictronConnect application. It facilitates convenient management of battery monitors (BMV series) and MPPT solar charge controllers, among other compatible devices.

Figure 1: The Victron Energy VE.Direct Smart Dongle, a compact device with a cable for connecting to compatible Victron products.

2. Setup

2.1. Connecting the Dongle

1. Ensure the Victron Energy product you wish to monitor (e.g., BMV, MPPT) is powered off before connecting the dongle.
2. Locate the VE.Direct port on your Victron Energy product.
3. Connect the VE.Direct plug of the Smart Dongle into the VE.Direct port of your device.
4. Once connected, power on your Victron Energy product. The Bluetooth LED on the dongle will begin slowly blinking, indicating it is ready for connection.

Figure 2: Illustration of the VE.Direct Smart Dongle connected to a Victron Energy device, demonstrating the physical connection process.

2.2. Installing and Connecting via VictronConnect App

1. Download the VictronConnect app from your device's app store (available for iOS and Android).
2. Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your smartphone or tablet.
3. Open the VictronConnect app. The app will automatically scan for nearby Victron products.
4. Your connected device (e.g., "BlueSolar Charger MPPT 150/70") will appear in the "Discovery" screen. Tap on the device name to connect.
5. If prompted, enter the default PIN code, which is 000000 (six zeros). You can change this PIN later in the app settings for security.

Figure 3: A visual representation of the VictronConnect app interface, displaying live data from a connected device.

3. Operating

Once connected, the VictronConnect app provides a comprehensive overview of your Victron Energy product's status and performance. The main screen typically displays live data, including:

• Panels: Current power (W) and voltage (V) from your solar panels.
• Battery: Battery voltage (V) and current (A).
• Charger State: Indicates the current charging phase (e.g., Bulk, Absorption, Float).
• History: Access to historical data, often including a 30-day log of yields, voltages, and charge states.

The app also allows for configuration of certain product settings, depending on the connected device. Refer to the specific product's manual for detailed configuration options available through VictronConnect.

Figure 4: A smartphone screen showing the VictronConnect app, illustrating the live data display for monitoring system performance.

4. Compatibility

The VE.Direct Bluetooth Smart Dongle is compatible with a wide range of Victron Energy products that feature a VE.Direct communication port. This includes, but is not limited to, the following categories:

• SmartSolar MPPT
• BlueSolar MPPT
• Battery Chargers
• Smart Battery Sense
• All Orion-Tr Smart DC-DC Chargers Isolated
• Battery Monitors (e.g., BMV-70x series)
• Peak Power Pack
• Solar Chargers
• Smart LiFePO4 Lithium Batteries
• Phoenix Inverters with VE.Direct port

The dongle is particularly useful for products that do not have built-in Bluetooth functionality, enabling them to be integrated into the VictronConnect ecosystem.

Figure 5: A visual guide to the compatibility of the VE.Direct Smart Dongle with different types of Victron Energy devices.

5. Maintenance

The VE.Direct Smart Dongle requires minimal maintenance. Keep the device clean and free from dust and moisture. Ensure the VE.Direct connector is securely seated in the port to maintain a stable connection.

5.1. Firmware Updates

Firmware updates for the dongle and connected Victron products can be performed directly through the VictronConnect app. The app will notify you if new firmware is available. Follow the on-screen instructions carefully during the update process to avoid interruptions.

6. Troubleshooting

• No Connection in VictronConnect:
  • Ensure the dongle is correctly connected to the VE.Direct port and the Victron product is powered on.
  • Verify that Bluetooth is enabled on your smartphone/tablet.
  • Pull down the "Discovery" screen in the VictronConnect app to refresh the device list.
  • Check the Bluetooth LED on the dongle. If it's not blinking, there might be a power issue or a problem with the dongle itself.
• Incorrect PIN Code:
  • The default PIN is 000000.
  • If you have changed the PIN and forgotten it, you can reset it by pressing the "Clear PIN" button on the dongle (refer to Figure 6). This will revert the PIN to the default.
• Error LED Blinking:
  • The Error LED indicates a communication issue or a problem with the connected device. Consult the manual of the specific Victron product for error code interpretations.

Figure 6: Detailed view of the VE.Direct Smart Dongle, highlighting the Bluetooth LED, Error LED, and the Clear PIN button for troubleshooting purposes.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

For detailed warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official Victron Energy website or contact your authorized Victron Energy dealer. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.