Victron Argodiode 180A 3-Battery Isolator

Description

The Victron Argodiode 180-3AC Battery Isolator allows one alternator to charge three separate batteries or battery banks without directly connecting those banks together. This makes it possible to maintain independent starting, house, and accessory batteries while still sharing one charging source. If an accessory battery is discharged, the isolation prevents that bank from automatically draining the starter battery.

The unit uses high-efficiency Schottky diodes to reduce voltage loss compared with conventional diode isolation. Voltage drop is approximately 0.3V at low current and about 0.45V at rated output. Because any diode isolator introduces some charging-voltage drop, the Argodiode includes a compensation diode that can be used to slightly increase alternator output voltage and offset the loss across the isolator.

This 180A AC-series model also includes a current-limited alternator energize input. Some alternators require DC voltage at the B+ terminal before they begin charging. A diode or FET splitter can block the normal return voltage from the battery, preventing those alternators from starting. The energize input supplies the required B+ excitation when the engine run/stop switch is closed.

For high-current three-bank charging systems that need traditional diode isolation plus support for alternators requiring B+ excitation, the Victron Argodiode 180-3AC provides a purpose-built solution. Worth comparing against our other battery isolators & charging relays.