Victron BlueSolar Solar Controller Location in 2021 Globetrotter 27FB

[BBardua]

Our 2021 Globetrotter 27FB came with a Victron BlueSolar 150/35 MPPT Solar Charge Controller for the factory solar panels. Unfortunately the BlueSolar doesn't have bluetooth built in to use the Victron Connect app, so I need to add the bluetooth dongle. Does anyone know where the solar charge controller is located?

Thanks.

[GMFL]

It should be under the front curb side of the bed. Close to the DC distribution box.

[BBardua]

Thanks. That's what I assumed but obviously didn't look closely enough the first time. I see it now tucked in behind the DC panel.

B

[ts8501]

I am interested in your install of the dongle, and whether you see value in the addition. I just tried to connect the app today to it, and realized the Bluetooth option is missing (2022 International)

[dznf0g]

Originally Posted by ts8501

I am interested in your install of the dongle, and whether you see value in the addition. I just tried to connect the app today to it, and realized the Bluetooth option is missing (2022 International)

I installed a Blue Solar several years ago and then got the dongle. I use it A LOT!

[BBardua]

From all the research I've done, you get a lot more control and info than you do when using the installed control panel. For example, I've just replaced the AGM batteries that came with the unit with two 100AH lithium batteries. Reprogramming the solar controller through the control panel is cumbersome and doesn't give you the ability to disable equalization (although you can just set it to the same voltage as for absorption and bulk) or disable temperature compensation (which lithium doesn't require because of the the built-in BMS). The app can also be used with Victron battery monitor so there's value to having both on the app.

[uncle_bob]

Hi

Bluetooth is pretty much a "must have" item on the Victron gear. No matter what the device, you get a *lot* more capability with it hooked up. The only real alternative is to buy one of their central controllers and access this or that feature through it.

Bob

[ts8501]

I have installed the Bluetooth dongle now, and I do like the app. I didn’t realize I had to give up the round MPPT wall display in order to add the Bluetooth Dongle. They both need the one ve.direct port on the 150/35. Or am I missing something?

[uncle_bob]

Originally Posted by ts8501

I have installed the Bluetooth dongle now, and I do like the app. I didn’t realize I had to give up the round MPPT wall display in order to add the Bluetooth Dongle. They both need the one ve.direct port on the 150/35. Or am I missing something?

Hi

Welcome to why you go with the "Smart" MPPT ....

Bob

[dznf0g]

Originally Posted by uncle_bob

Hi

Welcome to why you go with the "Smart" MPPT ....

Bob

Well, for me....the Smartsolar models weren't out when I bought.

For AS...well....they are cheaper.

[ts8501]

I tried to get an answer to this question on a different thread, but let me try here.

With factory solar and a Victron Solar controller, when you use the Zamp Port for additional portable panels, do the portable panels also need their own solar controller? I think the answer is yes, but “think” is not good a good strategy ;-)

[tjdonahoe]

Originally Posted by ts8501

I tried to get an answer to this question on a different thread, but let me try here.

With factory solar and a Victron Solar controller, when you use the Zamp Port for additional portable panels, do the portable panels also need their own solar controller? I think the answer is yes, but “think” is not good a good strategy ;-)

I installed 2 90 watt zamp panels with a victron controller…I am going to tie in a external plug for an additional panel …

[OrangeCrush]

Originally Posted by ts8501

I tried to get an answer to this question on a different thread, but let me try here.

With factory solar and a Victron Solar controller, when you use the Zamp Port for additional portable panels, do the portable panels also need their own solar controller? I think the answer is yes, but “think” is not good a good strategy ;-)

The answer is absolutely yes, panels plugged into the Zamp port need their own charge controller. The Zamp port is simply a direct connection to the batteries.

[ts8501]

Originally Posted by OrangeCrush

The answer is absolutely yes, panels plugged into the Zamp port need their own charge controller. The Zamp port is simply a direct connection to the batteries.

Perfect; thank you!

[BBardua]

I concur with OrangeCrush. We have 180W on the roof and also run a 230W Zamp suitcase through the external Zamp port. The solar controller in the unit only controls the roof mounted panels.

[jeffb831]

Is it possible to rewire the external Zamp port to connect to the built-in solar controller?

[OrangeCrush]

Originally Posted by jeffb831

Is it possible to rewire the external Zamp port to connect to the built-in solar controller?

Just to be clear, I am referring to the Zamp port on the front of the trailer for a portable panel, NOT the extra ports on the roof.

To answer your question, yes it is possible, but I would advise against it for at-least 2 reasons. 1) You may exceed the power rating of the on board controller, and 2) Unless you get the exact same panels the mis-match will negatively effect your MPPT controller's ability to find the maximum power point. Both will result in less than optimal power and possibly damage to the on board controller. Most portable solar kits include a charge controller so best to stick with one of those or buy a controller to add to what ever panel you are trying to plug into the portable panel port.

[JGF79]

This is a very valuable post for me! I have a new/used 2018 International Signature 27FB that I have just purchased. It has the solar panel package with the two panels installed on the roof. I have been researching the charge controller currently in place (and the control panel) and have noted it's deficiencies. No problem....armed with the information here I have sourced a Victron charge controller and the control panel/indicator which I am preparing to install. However, after reviewing the Solar Panel wiring diagram from the 2018 and the 2022 models, I have noted that the wiring sizes have been upgraded considerably. Since I will now be upgrading my wiring to match the 2022, I'm wondering can anyone give me any tips on how to get the wiring from the roof to the controller and where the battery box wiring resides so I can pull new wire from there to the controller also. Thank you in advance!