The Victron Argodiode 180-3AC is a diode-based battery isolator that charges up to three separate battery banks from a single alternator or charger, without letting one bank discharge into another. It suits marine, vehicle and off-grid setups where independent battery banks need to stay isolated from each other.

Key features

• Battery outputs, supports up to three independent battery banks from one charging source.
• Current rating, 180A maximum continuous current, suited to high-output alternators and multi-bank systems.
• Diode isolation, blocks reverse current flow between battery banks so a depleted bank cannot draw down a healthy one.
• 3AC design, three outputs with AC-compatible input, so it works with AC chargers as well as DC alternators.
• Build, aluminium construction with an integrated heat sink for passive cooling, weighing 1.4 kg.

How it works

Diode isolators let current flow in one direction only. While the charging source is active, current passes through the diodes to each connected battery bank. Once the source switches off, the diodes block any path between banks, so a flat bank cannot pull down a charged one.

Diodes introduce a voltage drop, typically 0.5V to 0.7V, so the voltage reaching the batteries will be slightly lower than the source output. Where this matters, set the alternator or charger output voltage to compensate during commissioning.

Applications

• Marine vessels with separate starter, domestic and bow thruster battery banks.
• Motorhomes and coaches with engine start, habitation and auxiliary battery banks.
• Off-grid vehicles and expedition builds needing isolated battery management.
• Commercial vehicles with multiple electrical systems requiring independent protection.
• Split-charge systems fed by a high-output alternator or shore power charger.

What's in the box

• 1 x Victron Argodiode 180-3AC battery isolator unit

Installation notes

Fit by a qualified electrician or competent marine/vehicle electrical engineer, in a well-ventilated spot so the heat sink can do its job. Cabling must be rated for the full 180A continuous load, with appropriate fusing on each battery connection. Allow for the diode voltage drop when setting the charging source output. Not intended for grid-connected solar PV systems and does not require G98 or G99 compliance.