Victron energy Blue Smart 12/4 120V Manual
Victron energy Blue Smart 12/4 120V Manual

Victron energy Blue Smart 12/4 120V Manual

Ip65 charger

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ENGLISH
li-ion
recondition
high
normal
storage
float
abs
bulk
test
Blue Smart IP65 Charger
12/4, 12/5, 12/7, 12/10, 12/15, 12/25, 24/5, 24/8, 24/13 |
120V
Rev. 04 - 04/2025
This manual is also available in HTML5.

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Summary of Contents for Victron energy Blue Smart 12/4 120V

  • Page 1 ENGLISH li-ion recondition high normal storage float bulk test Blue Smart IP65 Charger 12/4, 12/5, 12/7, 12/10, 12/15, 12/25, 24/5, 24/8, 24/13 | 120V Rev. 04 - 04/2025 This manual is also available in HTML5.
  • Page 2: Table Of Contents

    Blue Smart IP65 Charger Table of Contents 1. Safety instructions ........................1 1.1. UL compliance supplement - IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ..........3 2. Quick start guide ........................5 3. Features ..........................7 4. Operation ..........................9 4.1. Charge algorithm ......................9 4.2.
  • Page 3 Blue Smart IP65 Charger 11. Compliance statement ......................67...
  • Page 4: Safety Instructions

    Blue Smart IP65 Charger 1. Safety instructions WARNING: CAREFULLY READ AND FOLLOW ALL SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS • Carefully read the manual before the charger is installed and operated; retain the manual in a safe place for future reference. • The charger must not be installed or operated by anyone who lacks the appropriate knowledge or competence required for safe installation and/or usage.
  • Page 5 Blue Smart IP65 Charger This product features a pressure equalization vent to maintain the IP65 rating under various environmental conditions. The vent is NOT a reset button. Do not insert sharp or conductive objects, as this may cause damage and compromise the enclosure's protection. Page 2 Safety instructions...
  • Page 6: Ul Compliance Supplement - Important Safety Instructions

    Do not expose charger to rain or snow. Use of an attachment not recommended or sold by Victron Energy may result in a risk of fire, electric shock, or injury to persons. To reduce risk of damage to electric plug and cord, pull by plug rather than cord when disconnecting charger.
  • Page 7 Blue Smart IP65 Charger 13. CHARGER LOCATION Locate the charger as far away from the battery as DC cables permit. Never place charger directly above battery being charged; gases from battery will corrode and damage the charger. Never place charger directly above battery being charged; gases from battery will corrode and damage the charger. Do not operate the charger in a closed-in area or restrict ventilation in any way.
  • Page 8: Quick Start Guide

    Blue Smart IP65 Charger 2. Quick start guide The Blue Smart IP65 Charger range is designed to be used as a portable charger, or alternatively can be permanently mounted using the mounting tabs on the base of the charger. Identify/provide a suitable and safe location for the charger on a non-flammable substrate, with at least 10cm of clearance surrounding the charger and good natural airflow/ventilation;...
  • Page 9 Blue Smart IP65 Charger Select the charge mode and charge current limit most appropriate for the battery type and capacity. To setup using the charger: Press (and release) the MODE button on the Blue Smart IP65 Charger to cycle through and select the most appropriate integrated charge mode (Normal, Normal + Recondition, High, High + Recondition or Li-ion).
  • Page 10: Features

    Blue Smart IP65 Charger 3. Features Bluetooth setup and monitoring (Using VictronConnect) Equipped with integrated Bluetooth; enabling quick and simple setup, advanced configuration, comprehensive monitoring and firmware updates via the VictronConnect app and a Bluetooth enabled device (mobile phone or tablet). Integrated charge presets Integrated charge presets (selected via the MODE button or VictronConnect app) combined with adaptive charge logic are well suited for most common battery types;...
  • Page 11 Blue Smart IP65 Charger M. Recovery function The charger will attempt to recharge a severely discharged battery (even down to 0V) with low current and then resume normal charging once the battery voltage has risen sufficiently; many other chargers will not recognise a battery in this state. N.
  • Page 12: Operation

    Blue Smart IP65 Charger 4. Operation 4.1. Charge algorithm The Blue Smart IP65 Charger range are intelligent multi-stage battery chargers, specifically engineered to optimise each recharge cycle and charge maintenance over extended periods. The multi-stage charge algorithm includes the individual charge stages described below: Test Before the charge cycle commences the battery is tested to determine if it will accept charge, even if the battery is fully discharged (close to 0V open circuit voltage) it may successfully accept charge.
  • Page 13 Blue Smart IP65 Charger Storage The battery voltage is maintained at the configured storage voltage, which is slightly reduced compared to the float voltage to minimise gassing and extend battery life whilst the battery is unused and on continuous charge. Repeated absorption To refresh the battery and prevent slow self-discharge while in storage stage over an extended period, a 1 hour absorption charge will automatically occur every 7 days (or as configured).
  • Page 14: Charge Modes

    Blue Smart IP65 Charger 4.2. Charge modes There are 3 integrated charge modes (Normal, High and Li-Ion), as well as an optional Recondition stage that can be included (except for Li-ion mode). The integrated charge modes combined with adaptive charge logic are well suited for most common battery types; such as flooded lead-acid, AGM, Gel and LiFePO4.
  • Page 15: Low Current Mode

    Blue Smart IP65 Charger 4.2.3. Low current mode When low current mode is enabled the maximum charge current is limited to a significantly reduced level (varies per model); refer to the 'Technical specifications' section for more information. Low current mode is recommended when charging lower capacity batteries with a high current charger; charging at an excessive charge current can cause premature battery degradation and overheating.
  • Page 16: Temperature Compensation

    Blue Smart IP65 Charger 4.3. Temperature compensation The Blue Smart IP65 Charger range feature temperature compensation, which will automatically optimise the nominal/ configured charge voltage based on ambient temperature (except for Li-ion mode or if manually disabled). The optimal charge voltage of a lead-acid battery varies inversely with battery temperature; automatic temperature-based charge voltage compensation avoids the need for special charge voltage settings in hot or cold environments.
  • Page 17: Commencing A New Charge Cycle

    Blue Smart IP65 Charger 4.4. Commencing a new charge cycle A new charge cycle will commence when: The configured Re-bulk condition is satisfied (typically due to a large load): Re-bulk current is disabled (default configuration): The current output must be maintained at the maximum current output for four seconds.
  • Page 18: Estimating Charge Time

    Blue Smart IP65 Charger 4.5. Estimating charge time The time required to recharge a battery to 100% SOC (state of charge) is dependant on the battery capacity, the depth of discharge, the charge current and the battery type/chemistry, which has a significant effect on the charge characteristics. 4.5.1.
  • Page 19: Installation

    Blue Smart IP65 Charger 5. Installation 5.1. Mounting The Blue Smart IP65 Charger range is designed to be used as a portable charger, or alternatively can be permanently mounted using the mounting tabs on the base of the charger. Before mounting, the following aspects should be considered to identify/provide a suitable and safe location: Install the charger in a location with good natural airflow/ventilation;...
  • Page 20: Wiring

    Blue Smart IP65 Charger 5.2. Wiring The Blue Smart IP65 Charger range includes suitable DC power cabling hardwired to the charger with interchangeable battery / DC system connection options; refer to the 'Installation > Wiring > DC power cable' section for more information. Select the interchangeable DC power cable battery connection type required for the installation;...
  • Page 21 Blue Smart IP65 Charger Connect the DC power cabling to the battery/batteries or DC system distribution bus - follow the instructions relevant to the installation type. For hardwired installations, or when charging a battery outside of a vehicle/installation: Ensure that the DC system is shut down (all DC loads and charge sources off/isolated) prior to disconnection of any existing battery / DC system distribution bus cabling and connection of the charger to the battery terminals / DC system distribution bus.
  • Page 22: Dc Power Cable

    Blue Smart IP65 Charger 5.2.1. DC power cable The Blue Smart IP65 Charger range includes suitable DC power cabling hardwired to the charger with interchangeable battery / DC system connection options; M8 ring terminals and battery clamps are supplied with the charger. The following interchangeable DC power cable battery connection types are also available as an optional accessory: M6 ring terminals with inline ATO fuse (30A fuse included) - PN: BPC900100014 M8 ring terminals with inline ATO fuse (30A fuse included) - PN: BPC900110014...
  • Page 23: Overcurrent Protection

    Blue Smart IP65 Charger 5.2.2. Overcurrent protection To ensure reliable and safe operation, it is recommended to install a suitably rated inline fuse or circuit breaker within the DC power cabling between the Blue Smart IP65 Charger and battery/batteries, located as close as practical to the battery/batteries; this is particularly important for hardwired installations.
  • Page 24: Schematics

    Blue Smart IP65 Charger 5.3. Schematics 5.3.1. Basic install Basic hardwired install Refer to the wiring schematic below to connect a Blue Smart IP65 Charger to a single battery / battery bank: Description AC power supply (mains power grid, generator or inverter) Blue Smart IP65 Charger Interchangeable DC power cable battery connection with ring terminals (Other battery connection types are available as an optional accessory;...
  • Page 25: System With Multiple Chargers

    Blue Smart IP65 Charger 5.3.2. System with multiple chargers Multiple chargers in parallel Refer to the wiring schematic below to connect multiple Blue Smart IP65 Chargers in parallel to a single battery / battery bank: Description AC power supply x2 (mains power grid, generator or inverter) Blue Smart IP65 Chargers x2 Interchangeable DC power cable battery connection with ring terminals (Other battery connection types are available as an optional accessory;...
  • Page 26: Setup

    Blue Smart IP65 Charger 6. Setup 6.1. Setup using the charger The charge mode and charge current limit most appropriate for the battery type and capacity can be selected using the MODE button on the Blue Smart IP65 Charger. To setup using the charger: Connect the Blue Smart IP65 Charger AC power cable to a mains power outlet;...
  • Page 27: Setup Using Victronconnect

    - Apple App Store C. Windows and other - Victron Energy website > Downloads > Software Enable Bluetooth on the Bluetooth enabled device (mobile phone or tablet) if not already enabled, but do not attempt to pair with the Blue Smart IP65 Charger.
  • Page 28 Blue Smart IP65 Charger Select the Blue Smart IP65 Charger from the Device list Local page, under Other devices. VictronConnect will attempt to establish a Bluetooth connection with the Blue Smart IP65 Charger and display the connection progress in the Connecting pop-up dialog box. When attempting to establish a Bluetooth connection with a new/unpaired device, the Bluetooth pairing request pop-up dialog box will appear after a short delay;...
  • Page 29 Blue Smart IP65 Charger Select the Settings icon (gear in the top right corner) to access the Settings page. Select the most appropriate integrated charge mode (Normal, Normal + Recondition, High, High + Recondition or Li-ion) from the Charge preset menu. Ensure that recondition stage is only enabled when required, as unnecessary or overuse will reduce battery life.
  • Page 30: Bluetooth

    Blue Smart IP65 Charger 6.3. Bluetooth 6.3.1. Changing the PIN code To prevent unauthorised Bluetooth connections, it is highly recommended to change the default PIN code to a unique PIN code that that offers a greater level of security. The Bluetooth PIN code can be changed using a Bluetooth enabled device (mobile phone or tablet) with the VictronConnect app.
  • Page 31 Blue Smart IP65 Charger Select CHANGE in the Pin code field to open the Change PIN code pop-up dialog box. Enter the current PIN code and the desired new PIN code (twice), then select OK; avoid using a simple PIN code that is easy for someone else to guess, such as 123456.
  • Page 32 Blue Smart IP65 Charger After a short delay a pop-up dialog box will appear confirming that the Bluetooth PIN code has been successfully changed. The Bluetooth PIN code has now been changed to the new PIN code. During this procedure: The Bluetooth PIN code is changed to the new PIN code Bluetooth pairing information is not cleared Accordingly Bluetooth pairing with the device (mobile phone or tablet) used to change the PIN code is...
  • Page 33: Resetting The Pin Code

    Blue Smart IP65 Charger 6.3.2. Resetting the PIN code If the PIN code is forgotten/lost or does not work, it can be reset to 000000 (not the default PIN code stated on the label) using the MODE button on the charger or a Bluetooth enabled device (mobile phone or tablet) with the VictronConnect app. Reset PIN using the charger To reset the Bluetooth PIN code: Connect the Blue Smart IP65 Charger AC power cable to a mains power outlet;...
  • Page 34 Blue Smart IP65 Charger Using a Bluetooth enabled device (mobile phone or tablet), open the VictronConnect app and locate the Blue Smart IP65 Charger in the Device list Local page. Select the Device options icon (three vertical dots on the right side of the description) to access the dropdown menu. Select Reset PIN code from the dropdown menu to open the Reset PIN code pop-up dialog box.
  • Page 35 Blue Smart IP65 Charger A pop-up dialog box with the text "Busy" will be displayed while the Bluetooth PIN code is being reset. After a short delay a pop-up dialog box will appear confirming that the Bluetooth PIN code has been successfully reset; select OK to exit into the VictronConnect Device list LOCAL page.
  • Page 36: Disabling Bluetooth

    Blue Smart IP65 Charger 6.3.3. Disabling Bluetooth If required, Bluetooth communication can be totally disabled using a Bluetooth enabled device (mobile phone or tablet) with the VictronConnect app. Typically, there is no need to disable Bluetooth since unauthorised access is protected with a PIN code, but certain situations may warrant it for an even higher level of security or in highly specialised installations where the Bluetooth radio frequency is undesirable.
  • Page 37 Blue Smart IP65 Charger Select DISABLE in the Bluetooth field to open the Disable Bluetooth pop-up dialog box. Read the warning message, then tick the checkbox and select OK to proceed. End the current Bluetooth session by exiting into the VictronConnect Device list Local page, a final pop-up dialog box will appear when attempting to exit.
  • Page 38: Re-Enabling Bluetooth

    Blue Smart IP65 Charger 6.3.4. Re-enabling Bluetooth Bluetooth communication can be re-enabled using the MODE button on the charger. To re-enable Bluetooth: Connect the Blue Smart IP65 Charger AC power cable to a mains power outlet; after a short delay the TEST LED will begin to blink, until the charger determines if the battery will successfully accept charge (for up to 2 minutes).
  • Page 39: Updating Firmware

    Blue Smart IP65 Charger 6.4. Updating firmware 6.4.1. Automated firmware update The Blue Smart IP65 Charger firmware can be automatically updated using a Bluetooth enabled device (mobile phone or tablet) with the VictronConnect app. The latest product firmware is embedded within the VictronConnect app and loaded to the Bluetooth enabled device (mobile phone or tablet) when the VictronConnect app is installed/updated, accordingly the VictronConnect app will include the latest product Firmware as as long as it is kept up to date, and no internet connection is required during the firmware update process.
  • Page 40 Blue Smart IP65 Charger Refer to the dialog box at the top of the Settings page to determine the level/urgency of the firmware update available, then select UPDATE to access the Firmware update page. Refer to the current and new firmware versions stated at the top of the Firmware update page, then select Update to proceed.
  • Page 41 Blue Smart IP65 Charger The firmware update will commence and a progress bar will be displayed within the Firmware update page. Ensure that the Bluetooth enabled device (mobile phone or tablet) remains close to the Blue Smart IP65 Charger until the firmware update is complete and avoid using the device during this period;...
  • Page 42 Blue Smart IP65 Charger Confirmation that the firmware has been successfully updated and the new firmware version will be provided within the Firmware update page when the firmware update is complete; select Continue to exit into the VictronConnect Device list Local page.
  • Page 43: Manual Firmware Update

    Blue Smart IP65 Charger 6.4.2. Manual firmware update Updating firmware manually is typically not required but there are some rare circumstances when it may be necessary, such as: Updating to a new firmware version that has just been released and is available for download via the Victron Professional Portal, but not included in the VictronConnect app version currently available;...
  • Page 44 Blue Smart IP65 Charger Using the same Bluetooth enabled device (mobile phone or tablet), open the VictronConnect app (if not already open) and locate the Blue Smart IP65 Charger in the Device list Local page, then connect to the device (the default PIN code is stated on a label located on the back of the charger, or try 000000 if there is no label).
  • Page 45 Blue Smart IP65 Charger Select the Blue Smart IP65 Charger firmware file that has just been manually loaded from the the Firmware library page (if multiple firmware versions have been manually loaded, ensure the correct version is selected) to access the Firmware update page.
  • Page 46 Blue Smart IP65 Charger 12. The firmware update will commence and a progress bar will be displayed within the Firmware update page. Ensure that the Bluetooth enabled device (mobile phone or tablet) remains close to the Blue Smart IP65 Charger until the firmware update is complete and avoid using the device during this period;...
  • Page 47 Blue Smart IP65 Charger 14. Confirmation that the firmware has been successfully updated and the new firmware version will be provided within the Firmware update page when the firmware update is complete; select Continue to exit into the VictronConnect Device list Local page.
  • Page 48: Reset To Defaults

    Blue Smart IP65 Charger 6.5. Reset to defaults If required, all Blue Smart IP65 Charger settings can be reset/restored to factory defaults using a Bluetooth enabled device (mobile phone or tablet) with the VictronConnect app. Note this operation does not reset any Bluetooth related settings, such as the Bluetooth PIN code or pairing information. To reset all settings to factory defaults: Connect the Blue Smart IP65 Charger AC power cable to a mains power outlet;...
  • Page 49 Blue Smart IP65 Charger Read the warning message, then select Yes to proceed. All settings have now been reset/restored to factory defaults. Page 46 Setup...
  • Page 50: Monitoring

    Blue Smart IP65 Charger 7. Monitoring 7.1. LED indications 7.1.1. Operation states The LEDs on the Blue Smart IP65 Charger unit can be referenced to determine the current charge state and other operational information. Refer to the LED indications in the table below: Operation state TEST BULK...
  • Page 51: Victronconnect

    Blue Smart IP65 Charger 7.2. VictronConnect The Blue Smart IP65 Charger operation can be monitored in real-time and/or after completion of a charge cycle using a Bluetooth enabled device (mobile phone or tablet) with the VictronConnect app; this includes live data such as charger output voltage, output current, the current charge stage, charge cycle statistics, warnings, alarms and errors.
  • Page 52: Graph Screen

    Blue Smart IP65 Charger 7.2.2. Graph screen The Graph screen provides an easy to understand graphical representation of each charge state with respect to typical battery voltage and charge current. The active charge stage is also highlighted and stated, along with a brief explanation. Page 49 Monitoring...
  • Page 53: History Screen

    Blue Smart IP65 Charger 7.2.3. History screen The History screen is a very powerful reference as it contains historical usage data over the charger lifetime and detailed statistics for the last 40 charge cycles (even if the charge cycle is only partially completed). By selecting the full screen view the data is displayed in landscape view with significantly more days visible at the same time.
  • Page 54 Blue Smart IP65 Charger Charge cycle statistics Cycle overview Expandable bar chart showing the time spent in each charge stage and the charge capacity provided (in Ah) during each charge stage Status Confirms if the charge cycle was successfully completed or if it was ended early/interrupted, including the reason/cause C.
  • Page 55: Instant Readout

    Blue Smart IP65 Charger 7.3. Instant readout The Blue Smart IP65 Charger range features instant readout functionality (requires firmware v3.61 or above), which enables the essential data and notifications from multiple compatible devices to be monitored directly in the VictronConnect device list, without the need to establish a full Bluetooth connection with the device.
  • Page 56 Blue Smart IP65 Charger After a short delay the Instant readout pop-up dialog box will appear: When the Instant readout pop-up dialog box appears, select Enable now to enable instant readout functionality; skip to step 9. If the Instant readout pop-up dialog box does not appear, the automated prompt may have been disabled or the charger firmware does not support instant readout and needs to be updated (instant readout requires firmware v3.61 or above);...
  • Page 57 Blue Smart IP65 Charger Confirm that the charger firmware version supports instant readout functionality: If the current firmware version is v3.61 or above continue to step 8. If the current firmware version is below v3.61, update to the latest firmware version and then repeat the entire process; refer to the 'Setup >...
  • Page 58 Blue Smart IP65 Charger 10. End the current Bluetooth session by exiting into the VictronConnect Device list Local page. 11. Instant readout has now been enabled; data descriptions and additional data (if available) can be displayed or hidden by toggling the opposing arrows icon (right of the instant data). Page 55 Monitoring...
  • Page 59: Advanced Configuration

    Blue Smart IP65 Charger 8. Advanced Configuration 8.1. Advanced settings In specific use cases where the integrated charge modes are not suitable/ideal for the battery type being charged, or the battery manufacturer recommends specific charge parameters and fine tuning is desired, advanced configuration is possible using a Bluetooth enabled device (mobile phone or tablet) with the VictronConnect app.
  • Page 60 Blue Smart IP65 Charger Using a Bluetooth enabled device (mobile phone or tablet), open the VictronConnect app and locate the Blue Smart IP65 Charger in the Device list Local page, then connect to the device (the default PIN code is stated on a label located on the back of the charger, or try 000000 if there is no label).
  • Page 61 Blue Smart IP65 Charger Select User defined from the Battery preset dropdown menu. User defined configuration will now be enabled. Configure the advanced settings as required per battery manufacturers recommendations. The advanced settings (with expert mode disabled) include: Battery preset The Battery preset dropdown allows selection from the following options: Built-in preset Selection of a standard integrated pre-set (same as the general settings menu)
  • Page 62: Expert Mode Settings

    Blue Smart IP65 Charger 8.2. Expert mode settings Expert mode expands the advanced settings menu even further, to include more specialised expert level configuration settings. Page 59 Advanced Configuration...
  • Page 63 Blue Smart IP65 Charger To access the expert mode settings: Open the Advanced setting page and enable User defined configuration - see the 'Advanced configuration > Advanced settings' section for instructions. Toggle the Expert mode switch on to enable additional Expert mode settings (extension of the Advanced settings menu). Read the warning message and then select OK to proceed.
  • Page 64 Blue Smart IP65 Charger C. Absorption Absorption duration The absorption duration setting allows selection between adaptive absorption time (calculated based on the bulk time / level of discharge) or a fixed absorption time. Maximum absorption time / Absorption time The maximum absorption time / absorption time setting enables the maximum adaptive absorption time or the fixed absorption time to be configured (depending if adaptive or fixed absorption time is selected).
  • Page 65: Power Supply Mode

    Blue Smart IP65 Charger 8.3. Power supply mode The Blue Smart IP65 Charger range is also suitable for use as a DC power supply, to directly power loads with or without a battery connected. When the charger is used specifically as a DC power supply it is recommended to activate Power supply mode, which will disable the internal charge logic and provide a constant (configurable) DC voltage to the loads.
  • Page 66 Blue Smart IP65 Charger If required, adjust the desired output voltage and/or enable/disable low current mode. Power supply mode has now been enabled and configured. To revert the charger function back to use as a normal battery charger, follow steps 1 to 4 above and then select Charger from the Function pop-up dialog box.
  • Page 67: Technical Specifications

    Blue Smart IP65 Charger 9. Technical specifications Electrical 12/5 12/7 12/10 12/15 12/25 Mains power voltage (Nominal | Min/Max) 110 - 120VAC | 100 - 130VAC Mains power frequency (Nominal | Min/Max) 50 - 60Hz | 45 - 65Hz Power factor >0.6 Standby power 0.5W...
  • Page 68 Blue Smart IP65 Charger Electrical 24/5 24/8 24/13 Mains power voltage (Nominal | Min/Max) 110 - 120VAC | 100 - 130VAC Mains power frequency (Nominal | Min/Max) 50 - 60Hz | 45 - 65Hz Power factor >0.6 Standby power 0.5W Max efficiency Normal 28.8V | 27.6V | 26.4V...
  • Page 69: Warranty

    Victron Energy to make such repairs. Victron Energy is not liable for any consequential damages arising from the use of this product. The maximum liability of Victron Energy under this limited warranty shall not exceed the actual purchase price of the product. Page 66...
  • Page 70: Compliance Statement

    Blue Smart IP65 Charger 11. Compliance statement Blue Smart IP65 Charger 12/4, 12/5, 12/7, 12/10, 12/15, 12/25, 24/5, 24/8, 24/13 | 120V FCC and Industry Canada Compliance This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules and to RSS of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: This device may not cause harmful interference, and This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

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