Victron MPPT Err 116 and Err 119: Calibration and Settings Data Issues

Key Takeaways

• Err 116, "Calibration data lost," can often be ignored if it only appears in the history data and the unit functions correctly.
• Attempting to downgrade firmware on SmartSolar models from v1.4x or newer can trigger Err 116; reinstalling v1.4x firmware resolves this.
• Err 119, "Settings data lost," requires a factory reset and full reconfiguration of your Victron MPPT charger.
• Always disconnect all power sources from the charge controller and wait for 3 minutes before attempting a factory reset for Err 119.

What do Victron MPPT Errors 116 and 119 mean?

Victron MPPT Err 116 indicates that calibration data has been lost, while Err 119 signifies that the charger's settings data is missing or corrupted. These errors can prevent your charge controller from operating correctly or indicate a historical event that does not require immediate action.

Diagnosis

To diagnose Err 116 or Err 119, you need to access the error history and current status of your Victron MPPT charge controller. You can do this using the VictronConnect app or a remote panel like the Color Control GX or MPPT Control.

1. Check the error status and history: Use the VictronConnect app on your smartphone or computer, or a connected remote panel, to view the current error status and the error history log. This will show if the error is active or a past event.
2. Identify Err 116 context: If Err 116 is present, determine if it is only in the history data. If the unit is operating normally despite Err 116 being logged, it might be a historical event from its first power-up. If it appeared after a recent firmware update or downgrade, note the firmware version.
3. Identify Err 119 context: If Err 119 is active, the charger will likely not be functioning. This error indicates that the device cannot read its configuration.

Cause/fix table section

Troubleshooting Steps for Err 116 and Err 119

For Err 116: Calibration data lost

Scenario 1: Err 116 in history only If Err 116 is only present in the history data and your Victron MPPT unit is operating normally, you can safely ignore this error. This error is logged when the unit powers up for the very first time in the factory, as it does not yet have calibration data.

Scenario 2: Err 116 after firmware downgrade (SmartSolar models) If you have a SmartSolar model and Err 116 appeared after attempting to revert to an older firmware version, this is a known issue. Upgrading SmartSolar models to v1.4x firmware or newer is a one-way process; you cannot downgrade to older versions.

1. Reinstall firmware: Reinstall the v1.4x firmware or a newer version using the VictronConnect app. This should resolve the Err 116.

For Err 119: Settings data lost

Err 119 indicates that your charger cannot read its configuration and has stopped. To get it working again, you need to perform a factory reset and then reconfigure the charger.

1. Restore to factory defaults:

• • Open the VictronConnect app.
  • Navigate to the settings for your MPPT charger.
  • Click on the three dots in the top right corner of the app interface.
  • Select the option to restore to factory defaults.

2. Disconnect all power sources:

• • Completely disconnect the charge controller from all power sources. This includes the solar array (PV input) and the battery bank.
  • Wait for 3 minutes to ensure all internal capacitors are discharged.

3. Power up and reconfigure:

• • Reconnect the battery bank first, then the solar array.
  • Use the VictronConnect app to reconfigure all necessary settings for your specific solar system setup. This includes battery type, charge voltages, and any other custom parameters.

Safety

When working with solar charge controllers and battery systems, always prioritize safety.

• Disconnect power: Before performing any maintenance or troubleshooting that involves disconnecting wires, always disconnect all power sources (solar array and battery) from the charge controller.
• Insulated tools: Use insulated tools to prevent accidental short circuits, especially when working with battery terminals. A spanner across a battery bank can short hundreds of amps, causing severe burns or equipment damage.
• Eye protection: Wear appropriate eye protection when working with batteries.

When to call a technician instead

If you have followed the troubleshooting steps for Err 116 or Err 119 and the error persists, or if you are unsure about any step, it is best to contact a qualified solar technician or Victron Energy support. Attempting repairs beyond these documented steps may void your warranty or cause further damage to the equipment.