Victron Cerbo GX

A powerful communication center

De Victron Cerbo GX is in combination with a Smartshunt of Victron  a powerful communication center for everyone Victron on-board energy system.

We sometimes jokingly call the cerbo “the heart of the Victron”, all cables come together on the Cerbo GX. From the heart, the Cerbo GX all information is pumped to the laptop or phone and you can see all this information. The Cerbo GX offers a wide range of functions, which not only monitoring, but also control and optimization of your Victron-enable equipment.

The main features of the Cerbo GX

Real-time monitoring

With the Cerbo GX you have live insight into the performance of your entire energy system. This includes:

  • Battery status: Monitor the voltage, current and state of charge (SoC) of your batteries.
  • Solar panels: View solar energy generation in real time.
  • AC and DC users: Check how much power your users (such as refrigerator, navigation, lighting, air fryer) consume.
  • Inverter and shore power: Gain insight into the operation of your inverter and whether the shore power is working properly.
  • Ruuvie: In combination with the RuuviThe sensors can also read all temperatures.

Remote access

The Cerbo GX offers the ability to remotely monitor and control your system via the internet, using the Victron Remote Monitoring (VRM) portal or the VRM app. You can:

  • Having manage system from any location in the world.
  • Notifications and Alerts received by email (for example when shore power fails or the battery status is low).
  • Historical data view, so that you can analyze your consumption and energy yield over a day, week, month or year.

 

Extensive system check

The Cerbo GX acts as the brain of your Victron-system. With this you can, among other things:

  • Switching inverters on and off.
  • Generators start automatically when the battery status drops below a certain level.
  • Controlling relays, for example for switching equipment remotely.
  • Set alarms, for example if the voltage becomes too low or if there is a fault.

Built-in communication ports

The Cerbo GX is equipped with multiple communication ports to easily connect to all your Victron-devices and other systems:

  • VE.Direct: For connection with Victron-equipment such as the SmartSolar chargers, BMV battery monitors, and inverters.
  • VE.Can: For larger systems or connecting multiple devices, such as multiple SmartSolar chargers or a VE.Can solution.
  • USB and HDMI: For connecting additional screens or devices.
  • NMEA 2000: Integration with maritime networks for communication with other devices on the ship.
  • Wi-Fi and Bluetooth: For easy configuration and access to the system without cables.

Expansion options

The Cerbo GX works seamlessly with other Victron-equipment. Some possible extensions:

  • Victron Touch 50/70 display: An optional touchscreen to view all information directly.
  • Ruuvitag-sensors: Monitor temperature and humidity via Bluetooth with Ruuvitag-sensors. We are the only ones in the Netherlands to have one sharp combination deal for!
  • Cerbo GX tank monitoring: Monitor fuel and water tank levels by connecting tank gauges.

Data storage and history

The Cerbo GX records all your system data, which you can view on the VRM portal. This is useful for:

  • Having analyze of your energy consumption over a longer period.
  • Having optimize of your system to use energy more efficiently.

Versatility and flexibility

Victron Cerbo GX

Thanks to its versatile functionality, the Cerbo GX can be adapted to various applications, on boats but are also often used in RVs or off-grid homes. The extensive communication options and compatibility with various Victron-devices make it a central hub that makes your energy system work seamlessly.

Benefits:
✅ Full control of your Victron-system, both local and remote
✅ Insight into power consumption and generation of, for example, solar panels
✅ Email alerts when shore power fails or battery status is too low

Cons:
➖ Requires a SmartShunt for battery monitoring
➖ Only works with Victronequipment
➖ Screen must be purchased separately.

Victron Screen GX

De Victron Screen GX combicombines the functionality of the Cerbo GX with a built-in display. This is an all-in-one solution for those who have limited space and still want full control over their energy system.

Benefits:
✅ Compact solution: controller and display in one
✅ Suitable for small spaces

Cons:
➖ All cables need to be pulled to one place, which can sometimes be inconvenient and require unnecessarily long cables.

Quark-Elec A016

As the only non-Victron monitor in our range, is the Quark-Elec A016 we can offer this uniquely in Europe. This monitor works with NMEA data, so you can easily read information on your plotter, mfd or tablet (in combination with a multiplex).

Benefits:
✅ NMEA compatible
✅ Clear screen
✅ Affordable

Cons:
➖ Only works for the service battery
➖ No Bluetooth support

Importance of correct settings for a reliable SoC

The State of Charge (SoC) is an important indicator of the remaining capacity of your battery. Unfortunately, it often happens that the SoC is not completely reliable due to incorrect settings or incomplete calibration or old data after a power failure. This can lead to incorrect information about the status of your battery and thus even damage your battery. To ensure an accurate SoC, it is important to set the settings of your system correctly.

In addition to monitoring the SoC, it is therefore wise to occasionally monitor the battery voltage, especially when the battery is in rest mode. This gives a more reliable indication of the actual state of charge of your battery. With lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4), lead acid and AGM batteries, there are differences in how the voltage reflects the charge. This can help you to better determine when the battery is fully charged or when it is time to recharge.




The best choice for your situation

At Zarcillo Smartmarine we understand that every situation is unique. The most expensive solution is not always the best. Do you have questions after reading this article? Do you want to upgrade or partially replace your system? Our team is ready to help you make the right choices, so you can get on the water without worries. Contact us today and discover the perfect solution for your boat!

Installation and service

Installing your battery monitor yourself? No problem! Our monitors come with clear (online) instructions. Don't have the tools or would you rather have an expert do it? No worries, Smartmarine works with reliable parties that ensure professional installation, so that you can get out on the water without any worries.