How to Remotely Configure Victron VE.Bus Devices Using VRM Portal

Key Takeaways

• A Victron GX device and a stable internet connection are essential for remote configuration.
• Specific Venus OS (v2.17 or later) and VE.Bus firmware (not 416 or 417) versions are required for compatibility.
• Configuration changes, especially Assistant settings, can cause temporary system shutdowns.
• Always save configuration files as .RVSC for remote uploads; .VSC files are for local use only.

How do I remotely configure my Victron VE.Bus system?

Remotely configuring your Victron VE.Bus system involves using the VRM Portal in conjunction with the VEConfigure software. This process allows you to adjust settings on devices like MultiPlusses, MultiGrid, MultiPlus-II, Quattros, and high power Inverters from a distance, provided your system meets specific hardware and software requirements. The most common cause for remote configuration issues is unmet prerequisites, such as an outdated GX device firmware or incorrect power supply to the GX device. The first thing to check is that your GX device is powered directly from the battery and is actively communicating with the VRM Portal.

Prerequisites and Setup Steps for Remote VEConfigure

Before attempting to remotely configure your Victron VE.Bus devices, ensure all necessary components and software are in place and correctly configured. This process requires several specific conditions to be met for successful operation.

Step 1: Verify GX Device Installation and Power

A GX device, such as a Cerbo GX, must be installed locally on your system. This device acts as the bridge between your VE.Bus products and the VRM Portal.

• Check Power Source: The GX device must be powered directly from the battery. Do not power it using an AC adapter connected to the AC output of the inverter/charger, as this can lead to temporary loss of internet connection during system resets.

Step 2: Confirm GX Device Software Version

The GX device needs to run a compatible version of Venus OS.

• Minimum Version: Ensure your GX device is running Venus OS v2.17 or later. The latest official version is preferred for optimal performance and compatibility.
• VE.Bus Firmware 418+: If your VE.Bus firmware version is 418 or later, the GX device specifically requires Venus OS v2.10 or later for remote configuration.

Step 3: Ensure Internet Connectivity and VRM Portal Access

Your entire system must be connected to the internet and actively communicating with the VRM Portal.

• VRM Portal Setting: On the GX device, navigate to the menu: Settings -> VRM Online Portal -> VRM Portal. The access setting here must be enabled and set to "Full".

Step 4: Install VEConfigure Software

You will need the VEConfigure software installed on your computer to create and modify configuration files.

• Download VEConfigure: Obtain the latest version of VEConfigure from the Victron Energy website.

Step 5: Check VE.Bus Device Compatibility

Remote VEConfigure is compatible with Victron power products that have a VE.Bus communication port.

• Supported Models: This includes MultiPlusses, MultiGrid, MultiPlus-II, Quattros, and high power Inverters.
• Firmware Limitations: VE.Bus firmware versions 416 and 417 cannot be configured remotely. If your devices have these firmware versions, they will need to be updated locally before remote configuration is possible.
• VE.Bus to VE.Can Interface: For systems connected via a VE.Bus to VE.Can interface (common in old Hub-1 systems), this interface cable must run firmware version v2.05 or higher.

Step 6: Understand System Behavior During Configuration

Be aware that the VE.Bus system may momentarily switch off when changing the configuration.

• Assistant Configuration: Remotely changing Assistant configuration is possible, but it is one of the settings that will cause the inverter/charger to momentarily switch off and then turn back on. VEConfigure will issue a warning when you save such settings.
• Internet Equipment: Depending on how your internet communication equipment (e.g., router) is powered, the internet connection might be temporarily lost during a system reset.

Remote Configuration Process

Once all prerequisites are met, you can proceed with the remote configuration. This process involves downloading the current settings, making changes, and then uploading the new configuration.

Step 1: Download Current Configuration

1. Log in to the Victron VRM Portal.
2. Navigate to your installation.
3. Locate the Remote VEConfigure option.
4. Initiate the download of the current configuration. The system starts by reading all settings of each inverter/charger in the system. This takes approximately 85 seconds per unit. If VEConfigure Assistants are used, the process may take longer.
5. Once all data has been gathered, it is compiled into a file and uploaded to your computer. Download and save the .RSVC file to your computer's downloads folder. Do not attempt to 'open in VEConfigure' directly from your browser.

Step 2: Modify Settings in VEConfigure

1. Open the downloaded .RSVC file using the VEConfigure software on your computer.
2. Make the necessary adjustments to your system's settings.
3. Saving Changes: When you are finished, save the file using the "Close" button in VEConfigure, located in the upper right corner. You will be prompted to save the changes. This method allows you to save to both the .RSVC file (for remote upload) and a separate .VSC file (for local use).

• • Important: If you save the file via the File -> Save As menu, it will create a .VSC file. This .VSC file cannot be uploaded remotely. It is only suitable for local updates using an MK3 adapter.

Step 3: Upload New Configuration

1. Return to the VRM Portal and the Remote VEConfigure section.
2. Select the option to upload a configuration file.
3. Choose the .RVSC file you saved in Step 2.

• • File Type Restriction: Only .RVSC files can be uploaded when using Remote VEConfigure.

4. The configuration file is first uploaded to the GX device. Only once it has been received and verified by the GX device will it be written to the VE.Bus system. This ensures data integrity.
5. The system protects against accidentally sending settings from one system to another by comparing the serial numbers of the installed inverter/chargers against those in the configuration files.
6. For multi-unit systems, it is possible to replace a unit without full reconfiguration. While writing settings, the mechanism accepts up to one exchanged serial number and handles it automatically. This feature requires Venus OS v2.62 or later on the GX device.

Safety: Considerations for Remote Configuration

When performing remote configuration, it is critical to understand the potential impacts on your system's operation.

• System Shutdowns: Be aware that certain configuration changes, particularly those involving Assistant configurations, will cause the VE.Bus inverter/charger to momentarily switch off and then back on. This can lead to temporary power interruptions.
• Internet Connectivity: If your internet communication equipment (e.g., router) is powered by the inverter/charger's AC output, it may lose power and internet connectivity during these brief shutdowns. This could interrupt the remote configuration process. Ensure critical loads are protected or temporarily disconnected if a shutdown is unacceptable.
• Serial Number Verification: The system includes a safety feature that compares the serial numbers of your installed inverter/chargers with those in the configuration file. This prevents accidental application of settings from a different system.

When to call a technician instead

While Remote VEConfigure offers significant convenience, there are situations where professional assistance is advisable.

• Persistent Connectivity Issues: If your GX device consistently fails to connect to the VRM Portal or maintain an internet connection, despite verifying all prerequisites, a technician can diagnose underlying network or hardware problems.
• Complex Multi-Unit Systems: For very large or intricate parallel and three-phase systems, especially if you are unsure about the implications of certain settings, a qualified technician can ensure optimal and safe configuration.
• Firmware Update Requirements: If your VE.Bus devices have firmware versions 416 or 417, they cannot be configured remotely. A technician may be needed to perform local firmware updates.
• Unresolved System Behavior: If after making changes, the system exhibits unexpected behavior or alarms, and you are unable to resolve it through further remote adjustments, a technician can provide on-site diagnosis and repair.