Victron Freedom Won Lithium Battery Compatibility and GX Configuration

Key Takeaways

• Freedom Won LiTE batteries are designed for seamless integration with Victron systems.
• A Victron GX-device running Venus OS is mandatory for proper communication and control.
• Always ensure all Victron equipment and the Freedom Won battery have the latest firmware.
• Verify compatibility of your specific Victron models, as some older units are not supported.

How do I set up Freedom Won LiTE batteries with Victron GX devices?

The most common cause of setup issues is incorrect communication configuration or outdated firmware. The first thing to check is that a Victron GX-device is present and all system components are running the latest firmware.

Diagnosis and Setup Steps

Setting up Freedom Won LiTE batteries with Victron GX devices involves verifying compatibility, ensuring proper communication, and configuring essential settings. Follow these steps for a successful integration:

1. Verify Victron GX-device Presence: A GX-device running Victron's Venus OS is required to receive, process, and transmit the commands and information communicated by the battery to the Victron system. Without this device, the advanced battery management system (BMS) of the Freedom Won LiTE battery cannot properly interact with your Victron inverter/charger or solar charge controllers.
2. Check Victron Firmware: Ensure all Victron devices in your system have the latest available firmware installed. Outdated firmware can lead to communication errors, incorrect charging parameters, or system instability. You can typically update Victron device firmware via the VictronConnect app or the GX-device's remote console.
3. Check Freedom Won LiTE Firmware: The Freedom Won LiTE battery may also benefit from a firmware update, especially if the Victron firmware is being updated on an existing installation. For assistance with updating firmware on your Freedom Won LiTE battery, contact support@freedomwon.co.za.
4. Confirm Victron Equipment Compatibility: Not all Victron equipment is compatible with the CAN Bus communication protocol used by Freedom Won LiTE batteries.

• • Compatible: All new Victron MultiPlus, MultiPlus-II, Quattro, Quattro-II, Inverter RS, MPPT RS, Multi RS, BlueSolar and SmartSolar VE.Direct MPPTs, VE.Can MPPTs, and GX-Devices (Colour Control, Venus, Octo, Cerbo, CANvu, Maxi) are compatible.
  • Not Compatible: Certain older MultiPlus and Quattro models containing the smaller microprocessor chip (numbered 19 and 20) are not able to accept the required firmware and hence are not compatible. Additionally, the Freedom Won eTower model is not compatible with 250kbps CAN bus systems, for example, where they include older VE.Can MPPTs (box-type).

5. Configure Charge and Discharge Settings: The Victron GX-device, in conjunction with the Freedom Won BMS, will manage most charging parameters. However, some initial settings may need to be confirmed.

| System Voltage | Setting | Value | |---|---|---| | 12V systems | Float and Bulk Charge Voltage | 14V | | 12V systems | Cut-out Voltage | 11.5V | | 24V systems | Float and Bulk Charge Voltage | 28V | | 24V systems | Cut-out Voltage | 23V | | 48V systems | Adaptive Maximum Charge Voltage Limit Set-point (CVL) | varies from 54.8V to 55.8V | | 48V systems | Typical Maximum Charge Voltage (well-balanced LiTE battery) | 55.0V and 55.8V |

These values are typically transmitted by the battery's BMS to the Victron system. Ensure your Victron inverter/charger settings align with these recommendations. For more details on lithium battery care, refer to our guide on lithium-ion-battery-care-and-maintenance.

Common Issues and Solutions

Communication and Settings

The integration between Victron and Freedom Won is extensively developed and tested, supported by both companies. The core of this integration relies on CAN Bus communication.

CAN Bus Protocol

The Freedom Won LiTE batteries contain an advanced battery management system (BMS) that communicates via a CAN Bus protocol with the Victron GX device. This allows the BMS to provide critical information to the Victron system, such as state of charge (SOC), voltage, current, temperature, and charge/discharge limits. This closed-loop communication ensures the battery operates within its safe parameters. For troubleshooting communication issues, see our guide on troubleshooting-victron-gx-device-communication.

Victron GX-Device Role

In all cases, a GX-device running Victron's Venus OS is required to receive, process, and transmit the commands and information communicated by the battery to the Victron system. The GX device acts as the central hub for monitoring and control, displaying battery status and managing the charging and discharging of the Freedom Won battery based on BMS data.

Firmware Management

It is crucial that all Victron devices have the latest available firmware installed. The Freedom Won LiTE battery may also benefit from a firmware update if the Victron firmware is being updated on an existing installation. For battery firmware updates, contact support@freedomwon.co.za.

Safety: Lithium Battery Handling

Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries, like the Freedom Won LiTE series, are generally safe, but proper handling and installation are essential.

• Thermal Management: Ensure adequate ventilation around the battery to prevent overheating. While LiFePO4 batteries are less prone to thermal runaway than other lithium chemistries, maintaining proper operating temperatures is vital for longevity and safety.
• BMS Protection: The integrated Battery Management System (BMS) in Freedom Won LiTE batteries provides critical protection against overcharge, over-discharge, over-current, and over-temperature. Do not bypass or attempt to modify the BMS.
• Electrical Connections: Always ensure all electrical connections are tight and secure. Loose connections can lead to arcing, overheating, and potential fire hazards. Use appropriately sized cables and fusing for your system. When tightening or disconnecting terminals, kill power first and use insulated tools. A spanner across a battery bank can short hundreds of amps, causing severe burns or equipment damage.

When to call a technician instead

While many setup steps can be performed by a competent DIYer, certain situations warrant professional assistance. If you encounter persistent communication errors, unexpected system shutdowns, or if you are unsure about wiring or firmware updates, it is best to consult a qualified solar technician. Attempting to force incompatible components or improperly update firmware can void warranties or damage equipment. For specific battery firmware updates, always contact support@freedomwon.co.za as instructed by the manufacturer.