1. GX - Generator auto start/stop

In this section:

1.1. Introduction

By integrating an AC or DC generator with a GX device, the following features become available:

General features:

Automatic generator control: Start and stop the generator automatically using the “Generator auto start/stop” functionality based on various system conditions.
Manual control and scheduling: Start and stop the generator manually, with the option to schedule a timed run.
Service tracking: Monitor operating hours and service intervals.
Extended genset lifespan: Integrated warm-up and cool-down features ensure proper lubrication before load application and prevent sudden shutdowns.

For connected gensets:

Performance monitoring: View AC or DC production data.
Engine parameter tracking: Monitor pressure, temperature, RPM, starter battery voltage, and fuel tank levels.
Error alerts: Receive notifications on system errors.
DVCC support: Selected DC generators support Distributed Voltage and Current Control (see the DVCC - Distributed Voltage and Current Control) chapter.

Monitoring and control are available not only on the GX device itself, but also through the VRM portal and the Marine MFD HTML5 app. For more details, refer to the VRM Portal and Marine MFD integration by App chapters.VRM PortalMarine MFD integration by App

More general information about planning a Victron system with a generator is also available in the MultiPlus Generator FAQ.

1.2. How to integrate

There are two integration options:

Relay-Controlled Integration: A wired potential-free start/stop signal is supported via Relay 1 of the GX device (see section 17.2.7 for Relay-Controlled Start/Stop Signal).
Connected genset integration: If the generator or its controller is listed in the table below, digital communication is supported for readout and control via VE.Can, Ethernet, or RS485 (using an RS485-to-USB converter such as the Victron RS485 to USB interface).

Supported AC generator controllers for connected genset integration

Manufacturer	Model	Connection type	Remarks
ComAp	InteliLite 4 AMF 25 InteliLite 4 AMF 20 InteliLite 4 AMF 9 InteliLite 4 AMF 8 InteliLite 4 MRS 16	Ethernet
CRE Technology	Compact AMF Gensys Compact Prime Gensys Compact Mains	Ethernet
Deep Sea Electronics	DSE4620	Ethernet or RS485	For Ethernet: See ¹⁾ For RS485: See ²⁾and ³⁾
	DSE6120
	DSE4510 MKII
	DSE4520 MKII
	DSE6110 MKII
	DSE6120 MKII
	DSE7310 MKII		For Ethernet: See ¹⁾ For RS485: See ³⁾
	DSE 7410 MKII		For RS485: See ⁴⁾
	DSE 7420 MKII
	DSE8610 MKII
	DSE8620 MKII
	DSE8660 MKII
DEIF	AGC 150 Generator	Ethernet or RS485	For RS485: See ⁴⁾
	AGC 150 Hybrid
	AGC 150 PMS Lite
Fischer Panda	xControl	VE.Can
	iGenerator
	fpControl
¹⁾ This model does not include Ethernet connectivity. Therefore, the Deep Sea Electronics DSE855 USB-to-Ethernet communication device, or another Ethernet-enabled DSE gateway, is required. ²⁾ This model does not include RS485 connectivity. Therefore, the Deep Sea Electronics DSE857 USB-to-RS485 communication device, or another RS485-enabled DSE gateway, is required. ³⁾ The Hjelmslund Electronics USB485-STIXL Isolated USB to RS485 converter is required (https://hjelmslund.eu/) ⁴⁾ This model includes a built-in isolated RS485 port; however, the Victron RS485 to USB interface is required.

Supported DC generator controllers for connected genset integration

Manufacturer	Model	Connection type	Notes
Fischer Panda	fpControl	VE.Can
Hatz	fiPMG	VE.Can	Supports DVCC voltage control

Important

The GX device supports only one connected genset controller. When integrating via Ethernet, ensure that only one genset controller is accessible to the GX device.

1.2.1. Relay-controlled start/stop signal

Most generators support an external start/stop signal, typically via a potential-free contact. Closing the contact starts the generator, while opening it stops it.

Some generators require pulsed signals instead of a continuous connection. In such cases, additional timing relays may be needed (see below). Always refer to the generator manual or consult the supplier for details on the remote start signal wire configuration.

On the GX device, Relay 1 must be used to control the generator. After wiring the generator input to Relay 1, go to Settings → Relay → Function options → Generator start/stop.

Once Relay 1 is configured to “Genset start/stop”, the related settings can be accessed via Settings → Generator start/stop.

1.3. Generator start/stop menu

This is the general overview page of the generator start/stop function. This page can be used to monitor the generator's status, view the error status, access Run time and service and make necessary settings.

For connected gensets, the overview will appear in the Device list
For relay-controlled gensets, the overview page is located at Settings → Generator start/stop

The individual menu items have the following functions:

Auto start functionality: Enables the generator auto start/stop function based on defined conditions set in the Conditions menu.
Manual control: See the Manual Start Feature section for details.
Current run time: Generator run time since last start.
Control status / State: Displays the current status of the generator. Possible state messages:
- Stopped, Warm-up, Manually started, Running by condition, Cool-down, Stopping
Control error code / Error: Error description.
Genset status: Status reported by the genset controller (*)
Genset error code: Error code reported by the genset controller (*)
AC phases: Voltage, Current and Power readings (*)
Remote start mode: If enabled, the connected genset controller is set to the correct mode to be remotely started by the GX device (*)
Engine: Displays various controller readings (if supported by the controller): (*)
- Speed
- Load
- Oil pressure
- Oil temperature
- Coolant temperature
- Exhaust temperature
- Winding temperature
- Starter battery voltage
- Number of starts
Run time and service: Display various time-related values: (*)
- Total run time
- Daily run time (last 30 days)
- Time to service
- Generator service interval
DC genset settings: Contains settings for charge voltage and current and BMS control (*2)
Settings: This is the gateway to all other features.

(*) Only applicable to connected gensets.

(*2) Only applicable to connected DC gensets.

1.4. Settings menu

In the Generator start/stop menu, scroll down and tap on Settings to bring up the Settings menu.

Conditions: The Conditions menu defines when the generator should start and stop automatically. See the Auto start/stop conditions chapter for details.
Minimum run time: The minimum running time of the generator can be set here. It's good practice for a generator, once started, to be allowed to reach its operating temperature. When started manually, this setting is ignored.
Warm-up & cool-down: Allows a configurable time to be set for the generator to warm up or cool down via relay control while the AC input relay is open and the inverter/charger is not connected to it. See the Warm-up & cool-down menu section for details. Note that this feature requires an update of the VE.Bus inverter/charger to firmware 502 or later.
Detect generator at AC input: Enabling this feature will raise an alarm on the GX device, as well as trigger an alarm email from the VRM portal:
- whenever power is not detected at the AC input terminal of the Inverter/Charger. This function will bring attention to a wide variety of problems; such as lack of fuel, or a mechanical or electrical fault at the generator. This functionality is not available for VE.Can connected Multi/Quattros.
- It requires automatic alarm monitoring on VRM to be enabled, which it is by default.
Alarm when generator is not in auto start mode: See the Alarm when generator is not in autostart mode section for details.
Quiet hours: See the Quiet hours section in the Conditions chapter.

1.4.1. Alarm when autostart function is disabled

If this option is enabled, an alarm will trigger if the autostart function remains disabled for more than 10 minutes. This is particularly useful after generator servicing, in case the technician forgets to re-enable autostart mode.

This feature ensures that the autostart function is not unintentionally left disabled. For digitally connected gensets, such as DSE, ComAp, and Fischer Panda, it also checks whether remote starts are enabled on the genset panel. Two alarms can be triggered:

“GX Auto start/stop is disabled” – Raised when autostart is manually disabled on the GX device.
“Remote start is disabled on the genset” – Raised when the genset panel does not allow remote starts, such as inside DSE, ComAp, or Fischer Panda systems. This is usually done during genset servicing.

1.4.2. Run time and service interval menu

Every generator requires servicing after a certain period. The recommended maintenance interval depends primarily on usage and run time. This menu allows you to set a service interval, starting a counter that triggers a warning when maintenance is due.

The menu items in detail:

Reset daily run time counters: Resets the 7-day run-time history.
Generator total run time (hours): Reset or adjust the total run time to match the generator’s actual run hours. This also updates the ‘Total run time’ display in the generator start/stop overview.
Generator service interval (hours): Set the generator’s service interval in hours. Refer to the generator manual for specific guidelines.
Reset service timer: Resets the service timer. Use this after servicing the generator to restart the ‘Time to service’ counter.

1.4.3. Warm-up & cool-down menu

The warm-up and cool-down menu allows you to configure the time the generator needs to warm up or cool down before or after operation. This is controlled via relay while the AC input relay is open and the inverter/charger is not connected.

This menu also applies to digitally connected gensets (e.g., over Modbus), where the GX relay is not used.

Note: This feature requires VE.Bus inverter/charger firmware 502 or later.

Warm-up time:

The time required for the generator to warm up before the Multi/Quattro accepts the AC input. The GX device signals the generator to start, but the Multi/Quattro will only close the transfer switch after this period has elapsed.

Cool-down time:

The time required for the generator to cool down before shutting off. During this period, the Multi/Quattro disconnects the AC input and runs the load from the batteries. Once the time has elapsed, the GX signals the generator to stop.
Some generators do not stop immediately when given a signal; see the next setting for adjustments.

Generator stop time:

After the cool-down period, the GX signals the generator to stop, but the Multi/Quattro waits for this time to elapse before accepting AC input again.
This setting is only needed if the generator takes time to shut down without automatically disconnecting AC. In such cases, set a slightly longer delay to prevent the Multi/Quattro from reconnecting before the generator is fully off. If set to zero, the Multi/Quattro will accept AC input immediately after the cool-down phase.

1.5. Auto start/stop conditions

On loss of communication: If communication between the and the VE.Bus inverter/charger is lost, and generator start/stop parameters depend on this data, choose one of the following actions:

Stop the generator (default): Stops the generator if it is running.
Start the generator: Starts the generator if it is not running.
Keep running: Keeps the generator running if it was active when communication was lost.

Stop generator when AC-input is available: Useful for backup systems where a Quattro is connected to mains/grid on AC-in 1 or AC-in 2, with a genset on the other AC input. When enabled, the genset will only stop once mains power is restored after a failure.

The following parameters may be user-defined to trigger an automatic generator start/stop:

(* The value measured here will be the total AC consumption of the system.)

Condition parameters are prioritised in the order listed above. If multiple conditions are met simultaneously, only the highest-priority condition will be displayed as active. All enabled conditions are evaluated, even if the generator is already running. Once the active condition is satisfied, an unmet parameter in a lower-priority condition can keep the generator running.

1.5.1. Stop generator when AC-input is available

This option is ideal for backup systems where a Quattro has one AC input connected to mains power and the other to a generator.

When enabled, and the AC input connected to the grid is defined, the generator will automatically stop once mains power is restored after a grid failure. The process follows these steps:

The generator is disconnected first.
A cool-down period is applied, based on the configured setting.
An additional 15 seconds is allowed for the generator to complete shutdown.

Disabled: Stop generator when AC-input is available is currently disabled
AC input 1: Mains power is connected to AC input 1
AC input 2: Mains power is connected to AC input 2

1.5.2. Start/Stop based on Battery SoC

This feature allows generator control based on Battery state of charge (SoC) levels.

Use Battery SoC value to start/stop: Toggle this feature on or off.
Start when Battery SoC is lower than: Sets the SoC threshold for autostart when battery depletion occurs.
Start value during quiet hours: If Quiet hours is enabled, you can delay autostart until absolutely necessary by setting a lower, more critical threshold.
Start after the condition is reached for: Sets a delay before activation, ensuring the condition is sustained before triggering the generator.
Stop when Battery SoC is higher than: Defines the SoC level at which the generator will stop.
Stop value during quiet hours: If Quiet hours is enabled, set a lower stop threshold to minimise generator runtime.
Stop after the condition is reached for: Sets a delay before deactivation, ensuring the condition is sustained before triggering the generator.

1.5.3. Start/Stop based on Battery Current

This feature allows generator control based on battery current levels.

Use battery current value to start/stop: Toggle the feature on or off.
Start when battery current is higher than: When a high AC demand is experienced which will soon exhaust the battery, the generator can be auto-started to assist in meeting that demand. Set the current-level at which this will occur.
Start value during quiet hours: If Quiet hours is enabled, set a higher threshold to trigger only under more critical conditions.
Start after condition is reached for: Adds a delay before autostart to prevent unnecessary generator activation due to short-term, high-peak currents from AC devices.
Stop when battery current is lower than: Defines the current threshold for autostop.
Stop value during quiet hours: If Quiet hours is enabled, set a higher stop threshold to shorten generator run times.
Stop after the condition is reached for: Adds a delay to ensure current reduction is stable before stopping the generator.

1.5.4. Start/Stop based on Battery Voltage

This feature allows generator control based on battery voltage levels.

Use battery voltage value to start/stop: Toggle the feature on or off.
Start when battery voltage is lower than: The generator will autostart when the battery voltage drops below the specified value.
Start value during quiet hours: If Quiet hours is enabled, set a lower (more critical) threshold to ensure the generator starts only when absolutely necessary.
Start after the condition is reached for: Adds a delay before starting the generator once the voltage reaches the start threshold.
Stop when Battery voltage is higher than: Defines the voltage threshold for autostop.
Stop value during quiet hours: If Quiet hours is enabled, set a lower voltage level to achieve shorter generator run-times.
Stop after the condition is reached for: Adds a delay to ensure voltage level is stable before stopping the generator.

1.5.5. Start/Stop based on AC load

AC load triggers work similarly to other triggers but the feature is refined by a Measurement setting. The Measurement setting is available on firmware v2.0 and later and has three possible values:

Total consumption (Default option)
Inverter total AC out
Inverter AC out highest phase

1.5.6. Start/Stop based on Inverter High temperature

This feature allows generator activation based on inverter temperature warnings.

Start on high temperature warning: Toggle this feature on or off.
Start when warning is active for: Sets a delay before starting the generator to prevent activation due to brief temperature spikes caused by short-term high AC demand.
When warning is cleared stop after: Adds a delay before stopping the generator to ensure the inverter temperature reduction, typically due to lower power demand, is stable.

1.5.7. Start/Stop based on Inverter overload

This feature enables generator activation in response to an inverter overload warning.

Start on overload warning: Toggle this feature on or off.
Start when warning is active for: Sets a delay before starting the generator to prevent activation due to brief high AC power demand.
When warning is cleared stop after: Adds a delay before stopping the generator to ensure the reduction in AC power demand is stable.

1.5.8. Periodic run

This feature enables automatic periodic generator starts.

Run interval: Set the interval between runs.
Skip run if has been running for: Skips the run if the generator has already run for at least the test duration within the interval.
Run interval start date: Defines when the interval counter starts. No runs will occur before this date.
Start time: Specifies the time of day the run begins.
Run duration: Duration of the run.
Run until battery is fully charged: If enabled, the generator runs until the battery is fully charged instead of for a fixed duration.

1.5.9. Manual Start Feature

The Manual Start feature allows you to remotely start the generator. If the generator is already running, pressing Start prevents it from stopping automatically when the condition that triggered it is met. In other words, Manual Start overrides autostop parameters.

Ways to start the generator manually:

Using the Manual start menu: Go to Generator start/stop → Manual start; and then toggle the graphic to start the generator.
Using the top-left button from the Remote Console: Press the top-left button on the , or Remote Console and engage the Generator page. Then press the Start button.
Using the Controls option from the VRM Portal: See the VRM Portal manual.

Caution

If started manually (remotely) without a stop timer (Timed run feature), the generator will run indefinitely until manually turned off.

The stop timer is available for both manual start methods and prevents the generator from being left running unintentionally.
The generator can only be stopped manually if no active run condition is unmet.
To force a stop, first disable the function keeping it running or turn off the Generator start/stop function.

1.5.10. Quiet hours

The Quiet hours feature allows you to set a time period when generator noise would be a nuisance. During this period, the generator will only start if absolutely necessary, using adjusted autostart conditions.

How to Enable Quiet Hours

Navigate to Settings → Generator start/stop → Settings.
Toggle Quiet Hours ON.
Set the start and end times in the fields that appear.

Note that if the start and stop times are set to the same value, Quiet Hours will remain active indefinitely when enabled.

Using Quiet hours as a tool to define two sets of user-preferences

The Quiet hours feature can also be used to customise how your system responds to different conditions. For example:

Early morning/low SoC: Battery SoC is often lowest in the morning. If combined with cloudy weather or solar panels with a westerly bias(performing better in the afternoon), the generator may autostart in the morning due to low SoC. However, later in the day, as solar production increases, the generator’s work may become unnecessary. By setting Quiet hours during this period with lower autostart thresholds, you can prevent premature generator starts and make better use of available solar energy.
Holiday home: In a holiday home, power demand is significantly higher when occupied than when empty. The Quiet hours feature can help by applying lower autostart thresholds when the house is in use and higher ones when vacant.
To implement this:
- Set Quiet hours as a permanent condition (see above) while the home is occupied.
- Toggle Quiet hours OFF when the house is empty to allow for standard generator behaviour.

1.6. ComAp controller

1.6.1. Introduction

How does it work?

The GX device communicates (read/send) with the InteliLite 4 panel via Modbus TCP over Ethernet, using the ComAp CM3-Ethernet module (required) as the communication interface. Re-mapping Modbus registers with the InteliConfig software is necessary.

An overview of all Modbus registers used and their required mappings can be found in the appendix: Modbus holding registers for the ComAp InteliLite 4 controller

After applying the mapping, the GX device automatically detects the presence of a ComAp InteliLite 4 controller by using the identification string located in Modbus register 1307. It will recognise all modules with names starting with "InteliLite4-." This identification string also appears in the title bar of the InteliConfig window.

1.6.2. Requirements

GX device with VenusOS v3.42 or later
Supported ComAp controller
CM3-Ethernet module (ComAp order code: CM3ETHERXBX)
It may also work with the standard CM-Ethernet module (ComAp order code: CM2ETHERXBX), but has not been tested.
Ethernet network equipment

1.6.3. Installation & Configuration

Installation and configuration takes place in just a few steps. You only need to enable the Modbus Server in your CM3-Ethernet module. This can be done from the control panel or using the software for the controller, InteliConfig, which can be downloaded from the ComAp website.

No further configuration of the ComAp CM3-Ethernet module is required.

The Modbus registers must be adjusted using the InteliConfig software according to the register list as described in Modbus holding registers for the ComAp InteliLite 4 controller.

ComAp controller configuration

The following procedure outlines the steps for using the InteliConfig configuration software. Ensure you have the latest version and are connected to the controller:

Ensure Correct Units/Power Format:
- Select the Controller Configuration tab
- Choose Others
- Select Units/Power Format
- Ensure that Units is set to “Metric - 20°C, 10.0 Bar, 11.4 l/h” and Power Format is set to “Standard 1 kW/kVA/kVAr 1 V
Re-mapping Modbus Registers:
- In the same window, select MODBUS
- Download the Modbus mapping file for Victron Energy: ComAp InteliLite GX mapping
- At the bottom, under Import/Export, click the Import icon on the right
- Select the downloaded mapping file and click OK
- In the bottom right corner, click the Write button to save the configuration to the controller
The ComAp Modbus mapping UMOD file contains the necessary Modbus register mappings as required by the GX device. A human-readable format of the mapping can also be found in the appendix: Modbus holding registers for the ComAp InteliLite 4 controller.
Enabling the controller’s Modbus server
- Select the Setpoint tab
- In the subsequent menu, select the CM-Ethernet module
- Enable the Modbus Server

GX device configuration

Once the GX device and the genset controller are connected to the same network, the controller will automatically appear in the Device list. The image shows an example of a DSE generator controller.

If it does not appear, check the Modbus settings on the GX device by navigating to Settings → Modbus TCP/UDP Devices. Ensure that Automatic Scanning is enabled (this is the default setting) or manually scan for the device; it should be detected and listed under the Discovered D´devices sub-menu. For reliable operation, keep automatic scanning enabled, as the network is scanned every ten minutes. If the IP address changes, the device will be rediscovered. However, it is advisable to assign a static IP address to the controller to avoid unexpected communication loss.

1.7. CRE Technology controller

1.7.1. Introduction

How does it work?

The GX device communicates with the CRE controller by reading and sending data according to the controller's Modbus TCP specification, using the Ethernet connectivity of the CRE controller.

By utilising the identification values retrieved via Modbus, the GX device automatically detects the presence of the controller.

1.7.2. Requirements

GX device with VenusOS v3.50 or later
Supported CRE controller with firmware version v2.0 or later
Ethernet network equipment

1.7.3. Installation & Configuration

Prerequisites

The CRE controller allows you to change the units for pressures and temperatures; however, the GX device expects oil pressure to be configured in bar and temperatures in °C. Please ensure that the units are set correctly.

GX device configuration

Once the GX device and the genset controller are connected to the same network, the controller will automatically appear in the Device list. The image shows an example of a DSE generator controller.

1.8. DSE- Deep Sea generator controller support

1.8.1. Introduction

By integrating a Deep Sea Electronics (DSE) genset controller with a GX device, it is possible to read out AC data, oil pressure, coolant temperature, tank level, number of engine starts and further status readings. In addition, it supports digital start/stop signalling from the GX device.

How does it work?

The GX device communicates with the Deep Sea Electronics (DSE) controller by reading and sending data via the DSE "GenComm" Modbus specification. This communication occurs either through the Ethernet connection of the DSE controller itself or, for controllers without an Ethernet interface, via the Deep Sea Electronics DSE855 USB-to-Ethernet communications device or another compatible Ethernet-enabled DSE gateway that supports Modbus TCP.

Using the identification values obtained via Modbus, the GX device automatically detects the presence of the controller.

1.8.2. Requirements

GX device with VenusOS v3.12 or later
Supported DSE controller
For models that only offer USB connectivity (see table above), a Deep Sea Electronics DSE855 (or a similar device) is required.
Ethernet network equipment

Special Case: DSE 4520 MKII (Venus OS v3.50 or later)

Unlike all other supported DSE controllers, the DSE 4520 MKII does not accept control commands via digital communication. Therefore, a wired control signal must be used through the "Connected genset helper relay" function. Further information can be found in the section ???.

1.8.3. Installation & Configuration

GX device configuration

Once the GX device and the genset controller are connected to the same network, the controller will automatically appear in the device list.

If it does not appear, check the Modbus settings on the GX device by navigating to Settings → Modbus TCP/UDP Devices. Ensure that Automatic Scanning is enabled (this is the default setting), or manually scan for the device; it should then be detected and listed under the Discovered Devices sub-menu. For reliable operation, keep automatic scanning enabled, as the network is scanned every ten minutes. If the IP address changes, the device will be rediscovered. However, it is advisable to assign a static IP address to the controller to prevent unexpected communication loss.

Connected genset helper relay

Starting with Venus OS v3.50, a new functionality is available for Relay 1 on the GX device: the Connected genset helper relay.

This setting allows Relay 1 to operate in parallel with the digital control commands of a connected DSE 4520 MKII. Relay 1 remains open while the genset is stopped and closes as soon as the start command is given.

This feature is useful for:

Providing a wired fallback in case of data communication failure.
Custom applications, such as controlling an external fuel pump or triggering another control signal.

For wiring instructions, refer to Relay-controlled start/stop signal

1.9. DEIF controller

1.9.1. Introduction

How does it work?

The GX device reads from and sends data to the DEIF controller via the controller’s Modbus specification, using either the Ethernet connection or the RS485 Port 1 of the DEIF controller. By utilizing the identification values found via Modbus, the GX device automatically detects the presence of the controller.

1.9.2. Requirements

GX device with Venus OS v3.50 or later
Supported DEIF AGC 150 controller with firmware version 1.19.0 (from May 2024) or later
For integrating via Ethernet: Ethernet network equipment
For integrating via RS485: Victron Energy RS485 to USB interface (part number ASS030572050 or ASS030572018)

1.9.3. Installation & Configuration

Setting the correct scaling parameter

Currently, only the default value for the controller’s "Scaling" parameter (Channel 9030, value 100 to 25000 V) is supported. Before connecting, make sure that this setting is correct. The setting is available via the controller’s display at Parameter → Basic settings → Measurement setup → Scaling → Scaling. To make changes, enter the master password (default: 2002) and set it to the default range of 100 to 25000 V.

For Ethernet connection

Use the Ethernet port of the DEIF controller to connect it to the same Ethernet network as the GX device.

For RS485 connection

The DEIF AGC 150 controller series has two RS485 ports, of which Port 1 is galvanically isolated. Galvanic isolation prevents so-called ground loops, which can otherwise lead to damage to the devices due to unwanted currents. Therefore, Port 1 must be used, as explained in the table.

After connecting the controller to the GX device, use the controller’s display and navigate to Parameters → Communication → RS485 → RS485 1 → Parameters, enter the master password (default is '2002') and set the parameters as follows:

Addr: 1
Speed: 115200 Baud
Type: Modbus Slave

DEIF AGC 150	Victron RS485-to-USB Interface	Signal
33: Data + (A)	Orange	RS485 Data A+
34: Data (GND)	Black	GND
35: Data - (B)	Yellow	RS485 Data B-
	Red	5VDC (not used)
	Brown	Terminator 1 – 120 Ω (not used)
	Green	Terminator 2 – 120 Ω (not used)

GX device configuration

Once the GX device and the genset controller are connected, it will automatically appear in the Device list.

If using the Ethernet method and it does not show up, check the Modbus settings on the GX device, Settings → Modbus TCP/UDP Devices, and ensure Automatic scanning is enabled (default setting) or scan for it; it should be automatically detected and appear in the Discovered devices sub-menu. For this to work reliably, automatic scanning must remain switched on. The network is scanned every ten minutes. If the IP address changes, the device will be found again. It is nevertheless advisable to assign a static IP address to the controller to prevent unexpected communication loss.

1.10. Fischer Panda Generator support

1.10.1. Introduction

The GX device reads from and sends data to the Fischer Panda generator via a VE.Can connection, using the Fischer Panda SAE J1939 module (required). Both AC and DC generators are supported.

1.10.2. Requirements

GX device with firmware v2.07 or later
Fischer Panda generator, xControl, iGenerator or pfControl GC
Fischer Panda SAE J1939 CAN module (part number 0006107)
Fischer Panda FP-Bus to VE.Can adapter (part number 0023441)
Optional: FP-CAN to NMEA2000 (FP Art. No 0031409)

Fischer Panda firmware requirements:

iControl (for the iGenerator): v2.17 or higher
iControl panel: no minimum requirement
xControl (for the constant speed generators): 4V38 or higher
xControl panel: 4V29
fpControl (for AC and DC generators): any version
fpControl Panel: 4V29 or higher
Fischer Panda SAE J1939 CAN module: 2V05 or higher
Fischer Panda three-phase module: 4V0b or higher
Fischer Panda NMEA2000 interface: 2V11 or higher

1.10.3. Installation and configuration

Connecting a Fischer Panda xControl generator

The schematic below shows how to connect a Fischer Panda xControl generator.

Connecting a Fischer Panda iControl generator

The schematic below shows how to connect a Fischer Panda iControl generator.

Connecting a Fischer Panda fpControl generator

The schematic below shows how to connect a Fischer Panda fpControl generator.

1.10.4. GX device configuration and monitoring

Important

Important: Operation of the generator is only possible and allowed when the xControl, or the fpControl or iControl panel is switched on.

Ensure that in Settings → Services the selected CAN-bus profile is "VE.Can & Lynx Ion BMS (250kbit/s)". This is the default and supports NMEA 2000.

When all wiring is complete and the setup has been correctly carried out, the Fischer Panda will show up in the Device list:

Entering the Fischer Panda device on the menu reveals a page like this:

Notice that it features an on/off switch as well as displaying status information, and the main AC parameters: voltage, current and power.

Engine temperature, RPM and additional information are all available by entering the Engine sub menu item.

1.10.5. Maintenance

Before performing any maintenance on the generator, always stop it using the Fischer Panda control panel. This disables the autostart feature, preventing the generator from being remotely started, such as by a Cerbo GX.

After maintenance is complete, re-enable the autostart feature via the Fischer Panda control panel in the menu Generator → Autostart → Turn On/Off.

1.11. Hatz fiPMG DC Generator

1.11.1. Introduction

How does it work?

The Hatz fiPMG DC generator is a flywheel-integrated Permanent Magnet Generator (PMG) that adjusts to varying load levels with variable speed. It is powered by a Hatz E1 diesel engine with electronically controlled injection.

The Power Supply Unit provides adjustable output voltages for 28 Volt or 56 Volt systems and communication between PSU – ECU – Victron GX device acc. SAE J1939.

The Double CAN inverter has two separate CAN ports:

CAN port 1: Handles communication between the PSU (inverter) and the ECU of the engine.
CAN port 2: Manages communication between the PSU and the GX device.

For further details, visit www.hatz.com where you can access all electrical diagrams and additional unit-specific information.

1.11.2. Requirements

GX device with firmware Venus OS v3.50 or later
Hatz fiPMG generator with Double CAN PSU (inverter) for DC output in 28V or 56V
Cable VE-CAN to HATZ-CAN (available for purchase from HATZ)

1.11.3. Installation & Configuration

Connecting a Hatz fiPMG generator

The diagram below shows how to connect the Hatz fiPMG DC generator with the GX device.

GX device configuration

Ensure that in Settings → Services the selected CAN-bus profile is "VE.Can & Lynx Ion BMS (250kbit/s)". This is the default and supports NMEA 2000.

Once the GX device and the genset controller are connected, it will automatically appear inthe Device list.

1.11.4. Maintenance

For maintenance instructions, refer to the fiPMG manual.

1.11.5. Troubleshooting

PSU list of error codes: See www.hatz.com (CAN protocol E-series)
ECU list of error codes: See www.hatz.com (Diagnostic trouble codes E-series)

1.12. Generator state and improved operating hours via a digital input

For accurate engine status and improved tracking of accumulated operating hours on the GX device, an additional dry-contact signal wire can be used.

There are two common wiring options:

Using a potential-free output on the genset controller (if supported) to report the engine state.
Using an AC helper relay on the generator’s AC line, which closes a potential-free contact as soon as the genset starts supplying power.

To enable this feature, go to Settings → I/O → Digital Inputs and configure the respective input as “Generator”.

Once configured, the generator state will be visible in the Device list, and the total run time will be determined based on the state of this digital input.

1.13. Wiring a generator with a three-wire interface

To start a generator with a three-wire interface, the open/close contact must be converted into separate start and stop pulses. The solution below, using standard timing relays, achieves this by:

Generating a start pulse when the open/close contact closes.
Generating a stop pulse when the open/close contact opens.

Important: This method should only be used with generators that have their own control panel for monitoring and automatically stopping in case of issues such as low oil pressure. Do not wire this directly to the starter motor or fuel solenoid.

1.14. Appendix

1.14.1. Modbus holding registers for the ComAp InteliLite 4 controller

The following table lists the required ComAp Modbus configuration. In addition to the listedholding registers, Coil 4700 is used to start and stop the genset.

Table 1. Holding registers

Register(s)	Com. Obj.	Name	DIM	Type	Dec	Group
01004	10123	RPM	rpm	int16	0	Engine
01006	9152	T-Coolant	°C	int16	0	Controller I/O
01008	9151	P-Oil	bar	int16	1	Controller I/O
01013 - 01014	8206	Running Hours	h	int32	1	Statistics
01020	8202	Load P	kW	int16	0	Load
01021	8524	Load P L1	kW	int16	0	Load
01022	8525	Load P L2	kW	int16	0	Load
01023	8526	Load P L3	kW	int16	0	Load
01036	8210	Generator Frequency	Hz	uint16	1	Generator
01037	8192	Generator Voltage L1-N	V	uint16	0	Generator
01038	8193	Generator Voltage L2-N	V	uint16	0	Generator
01039	8194	Generator Voltage L3-N	V	uint16	0	Generator
01043	8198	Load Current L1	A	uint16	0	Load
01044	8199	Load Current L2	A	uint16	0	Load
01045	8200	Load Current L3	A	uint16	0	Load
01053	8213	Battery Volts	V	int16	1	Controller I/O
01055	9153	Fuel Level	%	int16	0	Controller I/O
01263 - 01264	8205	Genset kWh	kWh	int32	0	Statistics
01298	9244	Engine State		String list		Info
01301	12944	Connection Type		String list		Info
01307 - 01322	24501	ID String		Long string		Info
01323 - 01330	24339	FW Version		Short string		Info
01382	9887	Controller Mode		string list		Info
03000 - 03007	8637	Gen-Set Name		Short string		Basic Settings / Name

Generator start/stop