The Victron Argodiode Battery Isolator 80-2SC charges two batteries from a single alternator without connecting them directly to each other. It keeps the battery banks separate, which prevents cross-charging and preserves the starter battery's power. This suits boats, RVs and vehicles where the engine must stay ready to start while an auxiliary battery charges.
It uses Schottky diodes for low voltage drop. The drop is about 0.3 V at low current and about 0.45 V at the rated output. A compensation diode slightly raises the alternator output to offset the diode drop. A current-limited energize input powers B+ when the engine run/stop switch is closed, which addresses alternator startup behavior.
The isolator is installed between the alternator and the batteries. In some setups this can slightly reduce the charge voltage, which may prevent a full 100% charge. Consult a Victron dealer for compatibility and configuration.
- Brand
- Victron
- Model
- Argodiode 80-2SC
- Batteries
- 2
- Current rating
- 80 A
- Diode type
- Schottky, with compensation diode
- Voltage drop
- About 0.3 V at low current, about 0.45 V at rated output
- Energize input
- Current-limited, powers B+ when the engine run/stop switch is closed
- Use
- Boats, RVs and vehicles with a single alternator