VICTRON ENERGY Victron Argodiode 120-2AC Battery Isolator 120A | For 2 Batteries | Alternator Energise Input The Victron Argodiode 120-2AC Battery Isolator is an essential component for managing multi-battery systems, enabling simultaneous charging of two independent battery banks from a single alternator or charger. This robust diode isolator ensures that your starter battery remains isolated and fully charged, preventing discharge from auxiliary or leisure batteries. Utilising advanced Schottky diode technology, the Argodiode 120-2AC minimises voltage drop, ensuring more efficient power transfer to your batteries compared to conventional diode isolators. It is designed for 12V and 24V DC systems, making it suitable for a wide range of marine, automotive, and off-grid applications. KEY BENEFIT: Safely charges two battery banks from one source while preventing cross-discharge. Key Features ▶ Schottky Diode Technology — Ensures low voltage drop (approx. 0.3V at low current, 0.45V at rated output) for efficient charging. ▶ Two Battery Outputs — Allows simultaneous and isolated charging of two separate battery banks. ▶ Alternator Energise Input — Provides DC voltage to the B+ output, ensuring proper charging for alternators that require it to start. ▶ Compensation Diode — Can be used to slightly increase alternator output voltage, offsetting the small voltage drop across the isolator. ▶ Robust M8 Stud Connections — Provides secure and low-resistance terminals for high-current cables. ▶ Compact & Durable Design — Features an anodised aluminium heatsink for efficient heat dissipation and easy installation. Technical Specifications Parameter Value Product Model Argodiode 120-2AC SKU ARG120201020R Manufacturer Victron Energy Product Type Diode Battery Isolator Maximum Charge Current 120A Maximum Alternator Current 120A Number of Battery Outputs 2 System Voltage Compatibility 12V / 24V DC Alternator Energise Input Yes Main Connections M8 Studs Compensation Diode & Energise Connection 6.3mm Faston Dimensions (H x W x D) 60 x 120 x 115 mm Weight 0.8 kg Warranty 5 Years (Victron Energy Standard) Charging & Isolation Technology The Victron Argodiode 120-2AC employs Schottky diodes, which are superior to conventional silicon diodes due to their significantly lower forward voltage drop. This translates to less energy loss as heat and a higher charging voltage reaching your batteries, promoting more complete charging and extending battery life. An integrated compensation diode allows for a slight increase in the alternator's output voltage. This feature is crucial for offsetting the minimal voltage drop inherent in diode isolators, ensuring that batteries receive an optimal charge voltage. The alternator energise input is a key feature for modern alternators that require a DC voltage on their B+ output to initiate charging. Without this input, a diode isolator could prevent the alternator from starting. The Argodiode's current-limited energise input addresses this by powering the B+ when the engine run/stop switch is closed, ensuring reliable alternator operation. Typical Applications Application Description Marine Vessels Safely charge engine start and service batteries from a single engine alternator, preventing discharge of the start battery. RV & Campervans Isolate leisure batteries from the vehicle's starter battery while ensuring both are charged. Off-Grid Systems Manage charging of multiple battery banks from a single DC power source. Emergency Vehicles Ensure critical communication and auxiliary systems have dedicated power without compromising engine start capability. Built-In Protection Functions The Argodiode 120-2AC provides reliable battery isolation, preventing current flow between battery banks and safeguarding your starter battery from being drained by auxiliary loads. • Its Schottky diode design minimises power loss and heat generation, contributing to the longevity and efficiency of your charging system. • The robust construction with an anodised aluminium heatsink ensures continuous operation and thermal management. Common Questions What is a battery isolator and why do I need one? A battery isolator, like the Argodiode 120-2AC, allows you to charge multiple battery banks from a single source (e.g., an alternator) without connecting them directly. This prevents one battery bank from discharging another, ensuring critical batteries (like your starter battery) remain charged. How does the Argodiode 120-2AC minimise voltage drop? This isolator uses high-efficiency Schottky diodes, which have a significantly lower forward voltage drop (typically 0.3V to 0.45V) compared to standard diodes. This means more of the alternator's voltage reaches your batteries, leading to more effective charging. What is the 'alternator energise input' for? Some alternators require a DC voltage on their B+ output to begin charging. When a diode isolator is installed, it can block this return voltage. The Argodiode's energise input provides the necessary voltage to the alternator's B+ terminal when the engine is running, ensuring it starts charging correctly. Is this isolator compatible with both 12V and 24V systems? Yes, the Victron Argodiode 120-2AC is designed for use in both 12V and 24V DC electrical systems, offering versatility for various applications. Installation Notes Always ensure the battery negative cables are disconnected before making any alterations to your electrical system. Connect the positive output of your charging source (alternator) to the input of the battery isolator. Connect the positive terminals of your battery banks to the respective outputs (Output 1, Output 2) of the isolator. If your alternator requires it, connect the 'Energise' blade terminal to the engine run/stop switch. For optimal performance and safety, it is recommended to have this unit installed by a qualified professional. Before You Buy Verify your system voltage (12V or 24V) matches the isolator's compatibility. Confirm your alternator's maximum output current does not exceed the isolator's 120A rating. Consider if your alternator requires an energise input for proper charging. Consult your system's wiring diagrams or a qualified installer to ensure correct integration. Always verify product specifications and compatibility with your specific system requirements. Victron Energy offers a standard 5-year warranty on this power product.
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