The Victron MultiPlus 12/500/20-16 is a compact inverter charger for 12V DC systems with a 230V AC output. It combines a sine wave inverter, a multi-stage battery charger and an AC transfer switch in one unit, built for off-grid, marine and vehicle installations where space is limited.

Key features

• Inverter output, 500VA from a 12V DC input, giving 230V AC output
• Battery charger, 20A output, charging the battery bank whenever AC input is available
• AC transfer switch, 16A, passing shore or generator power through to connected loads
• VE.Bus interface, for parallel operation, split-phase or three-phase setups, and remote monitoring via Victron GX devices
• PowerAssist, draws on the battery through the inverter to supplement a limited AC input, avoiding nuisance trips
• Transfer switching, under 20ms, keeping connected loads running when mains supply drops out

How it works

When AC power is present from shore or a generator, the MultiPlus passes it straight through to the output while charging the battery at up to 20A. Lose that AC input and the unit switches to inverter mode in under 20ms, so connected equipment carries on running without interruption.

System integration

The VE.Bus interface lets installers link multiple MultiPlus units for extra capacity or arrange them in split-phase or three-phase configurations. Pairing with a Victron GX device such as the Cerbo GX adds remote monitoring, configuration and data logging through the VRM portal. Setup is done with Victron's VEConfigure software via a VE.Bus to USB interface, sold separately.

Applications

• Small off-grid cabins, sheds or outbuildings running from a 12V battery bank
• Marine installations needing a combined inverter and charger in a compact footprint
• Motorhomes and campervans requiring 230V AC from a 12V leisure battery
• Backup power for small critical loads such as communications gear or lighting
• Systems being built into a larger Victron VE.Bus network with GX monitoring

Installation notes

Fitting should be carried out by a qualified electrician or experienced system integrator, since the DC wiring at 12V with a 500VA inverter carries high current and needs correct fusing. Any shore power or generator connection must comply with BS 7671. This unit is not intended for grid-tied or G98/G99 export use.

What's in the box

• 1x Victron MultiPlus 12/500/20-16 230V VE.Bus inverter charger