The Victron Argodiode 160-2AC is a diode-based battery isolator that charges two separate battery banks from a single alternator or charger, without letting current flow between them. It suits marine, vehicle and off-grid systems where the starter battery needs protecting from the service or leisure bank.

Key features

• Current rating, 160A continuous, for high-demand charging from a single alternator input.
• Two outputs, charges two independent battery banks at once from one source.
• Diode isolation, blocks reverse current flow so a discharged bank cannot drain its neighbour.
• 2AC configuration, two alternator/charger inputs and two battery outputs in one unit.
• Construction, aluminium heatsink body to dissipate heat from the diode voltage drop.
• Weight, 1.1 kg.

How it works

Current flows from the alternator or charger through the diodes to both battery banks while the source is active. Once the source switches off, the diodes block reverse flow, keeping the starter battery isolated from the demands of the service bank. Diode isolators have an inherent forward voltage drop, typically 0.5V to 0.7V, so the voltage reaching the batteries is slightly lower than the source voltage. On systems with a Victron alternator regulator or a smart charger, this can be compensated by raising the charge voltage setpoint.

Applications

• Marine vessels with separate starter and service battery banks on one alternator.
• Campervans and motorhomes isolating the vehicle starter battery from a leisure bank.
• Off-grid cabins or vehicles charging two banks from a single source.
• Commercial vehicles with auxiliary power needing starter battery protection.

What's in the box

• 1 x Victron Argodiode 160-2AC battery isolator

Installation notes

Fit this by a qualified electrician or experienced marine/vehicle electrical engineer. Mount the unit to a surface that allows heat to dissipate, use cabling rated for the full 160A load, and fit appropriate fusing on input and output lines. Allow for the diode voltage drop when setting the charge voltage on the source device. Not intended for grid-connected use.