With OrionXS1400 firmware V1.13 we look forward to better performance and hopefully can resume using that device for charging house lithium batteries from the standard or upsized alternator. These Orion units can be paralleled and output current set so the potential exists to use these untis to provide DVCC control of alternator charging without modifying the alternator or needing an external regulator like a Wakespeed or Zeus. This is much better for new boats so the engine system does not need to be modified, maintaining warranty.
The only concern is that when charging Lithiums, if the alternator is heavilly loaded for an extended period, it may be destroyed as proven in the well known Victron training video. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jgoIocPgOug
If the CerboGX could have a temperature sensor like a Balmar or Wakespeed alternator temperature sensor connected to one of the temperature sensor inputs, and if that sensor could be assigned as an alternator temperature sensor, the OrionXS1400 could be throttled to reduce charging current via DVCC to protect it. That is the last piece to this puzzle to make the OrionXS1400 perfect for this job. That way we could maximise the alternator charging current without risking damaging the alternator by dynamically changing the charging current in sympathy with the alternator temperature. It could be as simple as the Balmar case where a temperature of 100 degrees C reduces excitation current to 50%. In the case of the Orion the charge current could be reduced by 50%.
I am guessing this could be done in Node Red but it would be much better if it were included in the CerboGX software. I also understand that not everybody’s great ideas can be included and find the latest CerboGX software pleasantly mind boggling regarding how many variations, third party devices and additions have been included.
A solution could be found by attaching the sensor to the remote input of the Orion XS1400 (maybe with some simple electronics) but that would abruptly stop the charging process when possibly a lot of current is flowing so not the best for the alternator. Maybe better to slowly reduce it via DVCC.
If anyone has a good way to do this with the existing CerboGX firmware I would really like to hear of the solution.
Many thanks….