Victron Skylla-IP65 Battery Charger: Setup & Wiring
Updated 6 September 2026 · By SolarNevs Research Desk, Dealer surveys + verified sources · 1 source · Method ↗

Key Takeaways
- The Victron Skylla-IP65 line comprises Skylla-IP65 12/70 24/35 heavy-duty battery chargers in IP65 splashproof aluminum casings.
- Operates on universal utility and generator supplies: Input voltage (VAC) 120 – 240 nominal with a broad Input voltage range (VAC) (1) 90 – 265 across Frequency (Hz) 45-65.
- Incorporates active power factor correction with a Power factor 0,98 for maximum electrical efficiency.
- Delivers robust output current: Charge current main batt. (A) (3) 70 35 for 12V and 24V primary storage banks.
- Features a dedicated auxiliary trickle charge output: Charge current starter batt. (A) (4) 3 4 for engine starter batteries.
- Implements an intelligent multi-stage charge algorithm: Charge curve, lead-acid 7 stage adaptive with specialized lithium profiles.
- Facilitates synchronized multi-unit paralleling via CAN bus communication port Two RJ45 connectors, NMEA2000 protocol.
- Provides remote alerting with a Remote alarm relay DPST AC rating: 240 VAC/4A DC rating: 4A up to 35 VDC, 1 A up to 60 VDC.
- Engineered for extreme maritime and industrial temperatures: Operating temp. range -20 to 60 °C (full output current up to 40 °C).
AC Power Architecture & Dual-Bank Outputs
The Skylla-IP65 is engineered for harsh marine engine rooms, remote industrial plants, and off-grid generator systems. Its water-resistant, corrosion-proof aluminum enclosure protects internal power electronics against salt mist, condensation, and chemical dust.
The Victron Skylla-IP65 is an IP65 marine and industrial charger (models 12/70 and 24/35) with universal 90 - 265 VAC input (45-65 Hz, 0.98 Power Factor):
- Main Battery Output: 70A (12V Model), 35A (24V Model), 7-Stage Adaptive, Full Power to 40°C.
- Starter Output: 3A (12V Model), 4A (24V Model), Isolated Trickle, Keeps Crank Full.
- Control & CAN: Dual RJ45 CAN, NMEA2000 Bus, DPST Relay, LCD Display.
Electrical Wiring & Isolated Starter Port
- Universal Mains Supply: Connect single-phase mains to the internal AC screw terminals. The charger accepts Input voltage (VAC) 120 – 240 and tolerates severe brownouts down to Input voltage range (VAC) (1) 90 – 265 across Frequency (Hz) 45-65.
- Primary Bank Connection: Wire the service battery bank to the main output studs, delivering Charge current main batt. (A) (3) 70 35.
- Auxiliary Starter Output: Connect the engine starting battery to the isolated starter terminal (Charge current starter batt. (A) (4) 3 4), maintaining starting readiness without risk of cross-discharging the house bank.
CAN Bus Paralleling & Remote Alarm Relay
The Skylla-IP65 combines sophisticated communication and automation interfaces:
- Synchronized Paralleling: Linking multiple Skylla-IP65 units via CAN bus communication port Two RJ45 connectors, NMEA2000 protocol automatically synchronizes charging stages, ensuring all paralleled units switch from bulk to absorption and float in perfect unison.
- Adaptive 7-Stage Charging: The Charge curve, lead-acid 7 stage adaptive process includes bulk, battery safe, absorption, automatic equalization, float, storage, and weekly refresh modes to maximize battery lifespan.
- Alarm Relay: The onboard Remote alarm relay DPST AC rating: 240 VAC/4A DC rating: 4A up to 35 VDC, 1 A up to 60 VDC triggers external sirens, indicator lights, or generator shutdown switches during fault states.
- Thermal Performance: Functions across Operating temp. range -20 to 60 °C (full output current up to 40 °C), automatically derating power above 40°C to protect components.
Technical Specifications & Connectivity
Parameter | Engineering Rating | Design Significance |
|---|---|---|
Model Hierarchy | Skylla-IP65 12/70 24/35 | Available in 12V 70A and 24V 35A configurations |
AC Input Operating Window | Input voltage range (VAC) (1) 90 – 265 (45-65 Hz) | Handles unstable generator and shore power voltages |
Mains Efficiency | Power factor 0,98 | Minimizes apparent power draw from generators |
Primary Output Current | Charge current main batt. (A) (3) 70 35 | High-speed recharging for deep-cycle banks |
Starter Trickle Output | Charge current starter batt. (A) (4) 3 4 | Independent maintenance of engine starting batteries |
Network Bus | CAN bus communication port Two RJ45 connectors, NMEA2000 protocol | Marine network and multi-charger synchronization |
Remote Switching | Remote alarm relay DPST AC rating: 240 VAC/4A DC rating: 4A up to 35 VDC, 1 A up to 60 VDC | Hardware-level alarm contact signaling |
Operating Temperature | Operating temp. range -20 to 60 °C (full output current up to 40 °C) | Reliable thermal envelope for marine engine rooms |
Frequently asked questions
What models and AC input voltage ranges are supported by the Skylla-IP65?
The charger is available in **Skylla-IP65 12/70 24/35** variants with **Input voltage (VAC) 120 – 240** and a wide **Input voltage range (VAC) (1) 90 – 265** across **Frequency (Hz) 45-65** with a **Power factor 0,98** (August 2026).
What charge currents are delivered to the main and starter batteries?
It delivers **Charge current main batt. (A) (3) 70 35** to the house bank and **Charge current starter batt. (A) (4) 3 4** to the engine starting battery (August 2026).
What charging algorithm and communication protocols does the Skylla-IP65 use?
It utilizes a **Charge curve, lead-acid 7 stage adaptive** profile and integrates a **CAN bus communication port Two RJ45 connectors, NMEA2000 protocol** (August 2026).
What remote alarm ratings and temperature operating limits apply?
It includes a **Remote alarm relay DPST AC rating: 240 VAC/4A DC rating: 4A up to 35 VDC, 1 A up to 60 VDC** and operates across **Operating temp. range -20 to 60 °C (full output current up to 40 °C)** (August 2026).
References
- Victron Energy: Skylla-IP65 Manual — accessed 31 August 2026
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