How to Use Victron Remote VEConfigure via VRM

Key Takeaways

• A Victron GX device (e.g., Cerbo GX) and a stable internet connection are mandatory for Remote VEConfigure.
• Your GX device must run Venus OS v2.17 or later, and the VRM Portal access setting must be 'Full'.
• Always download the .RVSC file from the VRM portal, modify it, and re-upload the same .RVSC file.
• Changing certain settings, like Assistant configuration, will cause the inverter/charger to momentarily switch off and back on.

How to Remotely Configure Your Victron System via VRM

Remotely configuring your Victron inverter/charger via the Victron Remote Management (VRM) portal allows you to adjust system settings without being physically present. The most common reason for issues when attempting this is not meeting the essential requirements or following the procedure incorrectly. The first step in troubleshooting is to ensure all prerequisites are met, particularly the GX device setup and internet connectivity.

Prerequisites and System Requirements

Before attempting to use Remote VEConfigure, verify that your system meets the following requirements. Each point is critical for successful remote configuration.

1. GX Device Installation: This functionality requires a GX device (such as a Cerbo GX) to be installed locally on your system.

• • Check: Confirm a GX device is physically installed and operational.

2. Venus OS Version: The GX device must be running Venus OS v2.17 or later. The latest official version is preferred for optimal compatibility.

• • Check: Access your GX device's interface to verify the Venus OS version. If it is older than v2.17, update it.

3. Internet Connection: Your system must be connected to the internet and actively communicating with the VRM Portal.

• • Check: Verify internet connectivity on your GX device and confirm data is visible on the VRM Portal.

4. VRM Portal Access Setting: The 'Full' access setting must be enabled on your GX device. This setting is found in the GX device menu under Settings -> VRM Online Portal -> VRM Portal.

• • Check: Navigate to this menu on your GX device and ensure 'Full' access is selected.

5. GX Device Power Source: The GX device must be powered directly from the battery. Do not power it from an AC adapter connected to the AC output of the inverter/charger.

• • Check: Confirm the GX device's power wiring. Incorrect powering can lead to communication loss during inverter/charger shutdowns.

6. VEConfigure Software: You need the VEConfigure software installed on your computer.

• • Check: Ensure VEConfigure is installed and functional on your local machine.

7. VE.Bus Firmware Versions:

• • VE.Bus firmware versions 416 and 417 cannot be configured remotely.
  • Remote configuring firmware version 418 or later requires the GX device to run Venus OS v2.10 or later.
  • Check: Verify your inverter/charger's VE.Bus firmware version. If it's 416 or 417, remote configuration is not possible.

8. VE.Bus to VE.Can Interface Firmware: If your system uses a VE.Bus to VE.Can interface (as in old Hub-1 systems), this interface cable needs to run firmware version v2.05 or higher.

• • Check: For such systems, confirm the interface cable's firmware version.

Troubleshooting Common Remote VEConfigure Issues

Step-by-Step Guide to Using Remote VEConfigure

This procedure outlines how to download, modify, and upload configuration files for your Victron system remotely.

1. Verify Requirements: Before starting, ensure all prerequisites listed in the "Prerequisites and System Requirements" section are met. This includes having Venus OS v2.17 or later on your GX device and 'Full' VRM Portal access enabled.
2. Access VRM Portal: Log in to the Victron Remote Management (VRM) Portal.
3. Locate Remote VEConfigure Button: On the VRM Portal, navigate to the Device List. Scroll to the bottom of the page to find the Remote VEConfigure button.
4. Initiate Download: Click the Remote VEConfigure button. The system will begin reading all settings from each inverter/charger in your system. This process takes approximately 85 seconds per unit. If VEConfigure Assistants are used, it will take longer, as writing an Assistant can take between a few and 40 seconds per unit.
5. Download .RVSC File: Once all data is gathered, it is compiled into a file and uploaded to your computer. Download and save this .RVSC file to your computer's downloads folder. Do not attempt to "open in VEConfigure" directly from your browser.
6. Modify Configuration: Open the downloaded .RVSC file using the VEConfigure software on your computer. Make the necessary configuration changes.
7. Save Changes in VEConfigure: After making modifications, save the file by clicking the Close button in VEConfigure (located in the upper right). You will be prompted to save changes. Changes can be saved to both the .RVSC file and optionally to a separate .VSC file.

• • Important Note: You can only upload the .RVSC file when using Remote VEConfigure. If you save the file via the File, Save As menu, it will create a new .VSC file. This .VSC file can be used for local updates with an MK3 adapter but cannot be uploaded remotely. You must use the original .RVSC file downloaded from the system, modify it, and then upload that same .RVSC file.

8. Return to VRM Portal: Go back to the Device List on the VRM Portal and locate the Remote VEConfigure button again.
9. Initiate Upload: Click the button.
10. Upload .RVSC File: Click the Upload button, select your modified .RVSC file, and confirm to send it to the system via VRM.

Handling Unit Replacement in Multi-Unit Systems

The system incorporates protection against accidentally sending settings from one system to another by comparing the serial numbers of installed inverter/chargers against those in the configuration files. For multi-unit systems, you can replace a failed unit without a full reconfiguration:

1. Archive .RVSC File: After commissioning a new system, always create and archive a .RVSC file.
2. Replace Unit: If a unit fails, replace it with a new one.
3. Update Firmware: Update the new unit to the same firmware version as the rest of the system. An archive of older firmware versions is available from Victron Energy.
4. Upload Archived Configuration: Open your archived .RVSC file. Use the VRM Remote VEConfigure write settings feature to send this configuration. The mechanism accepts up to one exchanged serial number and will automatically and silently handle the replacement. This feature requires Venus OS v2.62 or later to be installed on the GX device.

Safety Considerations

When performing remote configuration, be aware of the following:

• System Shutdowns: Changing certain settings, such as Assistant configuration, will cause the inverter/charger to momentarily switch off and back on again. If your internet communication equipment (e.g., router) is powered by the inverter/charger, the internet connection might also be temporarily lost during this time. Plan for these brief interruptions, especially if critical loads are connected.
• File Upload Safety: The configuration file is first uploaded to the GX device. It is only written to the VE.Bus system once it has been received and verified by the GX device, minimizing risks from unstable internet connections during the write process.
• Critical Settings: Exercise caution when modifying critical system settings remotely. Ensure you understand the implications of each change before applying it.

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 a stable internet connection, a technician can diagnose underlying network or hardware problems.
• System Instability After Configuration: If your system exhibits unexpected behavior, alarms, or instability after remote configuration, and you cannot resolve it by reverting settings, a technician can perform on-site diagnostics.
• Complex Multi-Unit Issues: For intricate multi-inverter/charger setups or systems with advanced integrations, a technician's expertise can be invaluable for complex troubleshooting or configuration.
• Hardware Malfunctions: If the issue appears to be a hardware malfunction of the GX device, inverter/charger, or communication cables, a qualified technician should perform inspections and repairs.
• Uncertainty with Settings: If you are unsure about the impact of specific settings or fear making changes that could void your warranty or damage equipment, consult a professional.