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Victron 140A Battery Isolator Argodiode 140-3AC | 3 Batteries
Simultaneous charging of 3 batteries with low-loss Schottky diodes and 140A capacity
Victron 160A Battery Isolator Argodiode160-2AC ...DESCRIPTION
Victron 140A Battery Isolator Argodiode 140-3AC: High-Efficiency Schottky Diode Battery Isolator for Dual and Multi-Bank Charging
Reliable Simultaneous Charging Without Battery Interconnection
The Victron 140A Battery Isolator Argodiode 140-3AC is a robust diode battery isolator engineered to enable simultaneous charging of 3 separate battery banks from a single alternator, without electrically connecting the batteries together. This ensures that discharging an accessory or auxiliary battery—such as a house bank in a caravan, boat, or 4WD—will not drain the starter battery, preserving engine start capability and reducing the risk of being stranded. Unlike generic split-charge relays or basic isolators, this Victron unit uses advanced Schottky diode technology to minimise voltage drop, delivering more efficient charging and longer battery life.
Designed for 12V and 24V DC systems, this isolator is ideal for marine, automotive, and off-grid applications where reliable multi-battery management is critical. Its low forward voltage drop—approximately 0.3 V at low current and 0.45 V at rated output—reduces energy loss and heat generation, ensuring more of the alternator’s output reaches your batteries. This is a significant advantage over conventional silicon diode isolators, which can drop 0.7 V or more, leading to chronic undercharging and premature battery failure.
Advanced Schottky Diode Technology for Superior Performance
At the core of the Victron 140A Battery Isolator Argodiode 140-3AC are high-efficiency Schottky diodes, which provide a lower forward voltage drop compared to standard PN-junction diodes. This means less power is wasted as heat, and the alternator can operate closer to its intended voltage setpoint. The integrated voltage compensation diode allows you to fine-tune the alternator’s output voltage to offset the small remaining drop, ensuring batteries reach a full state of charge. This feature is especially valuable in systems where battery longevity and performance are paramount, such as in deep-cycle AGM or lithium battery setups.
Additionally, the Victron 140A Battery Isolator Argodiode 140-3AC includes a current-limited alternator energize input which is essential for modern alternators that require a DC voltage on the B+ terminal to initiate charging. Without this input, a diode isolator would block the return voltage, preventing the alternator from starting. The energize circuit provides a safe, controlled current to the B+ terminal when the engine run/stop switch is closed, ensuring reliable alternator activation.
Built for Demanding Environments
Victron’s Argo Diode isolators are constructed with a durable anodised aluminium heat sink that efficiently dissipates heat, allowing continuous operation at high currents without thermal throttling. The compact footprint—60 x 120 x 150 mm (2.4 x 4.7 x 5.9 in)—and light weight of 1.1 kg (2.5 lbs) make installation straightforward in tight engine bays or electrical compartments. Heavy-duty M8 Studs stud terminals ensure secure, low-resistance connections for high-current cables, while the 6.3 mm Faston connectors for compensation and energize simplify wiring.
All models are rated for mounting on non-flammable surfaces and are tested to withstand the vibration, temperature extremes, and salt-laden air common in marine and automotive environments. This rugged design reduces the risk of premature failure and electrical faults that can occur with lesser-quality isolators.
Key Features
- Simultaneous charging of 3 battery banks from one alternator without interconnection
- Low voltage drop Schottky diodes: ~0.3 V at low current, ~0.45 V at rated output
- Integrated voltage compensation diode to optimise alternator output
- Current-limited alternator energize input for modern alternators
- Heavy-duty M8 Studs stud terminals for secure high-current connections
- Compact, lightweight aluminium heat sink for efficient cooling
- Suitable for 12V and 24V DC systems
- Robust construction for marine, automotive, and off-grid use
Applications
The Victron 140A Battery Isolator Argodiode 140-3AC is an excellent choice for a wide range of dual-battery and multi-battery systems, including:
- Marine vessels: separate starter and house battery banks
- Caravans and motorhomes: charging auxiliary batteries while driving
- 4WD and off-road vehicles: powering winches, fridges, and camping accessories
- Commercial vehicles: maintaining separate battery systems for equipment
- Off-grid solar systems: combining multiple charge sources without back-feed
Installation Considerations
When installing a diode battery isolator, it is important to account for the slight voltage drop across the diodes. The integrated compensation diode can be used to adjust the alternator’s voltage regulator, but in some systems, additional wiring modifications may be required. For optimal battery health and charging performance, consult the Victron ‘Energy Unlimited’ book or seek advice from a qualified auto electrician or marine installer. Proper cable sizing and termination are critical to minimise additional voltage losses and ensure safe, reliable operation.
Upgrade your battery management system with the Victron 140A Battery Isolator Argodiode 140-3AC and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with Victron’s proven reliability and engineering excellence. Whether you’re outfitting a bluewater cruiser, a remote-area tourer, or a commercial fleet vehicle, this isolator delivers the performance and durability you need to keep all your batteries charged and ready.
SKU: Vic-ARG140301020R
SPECIFICATIONS
Specifications
| Model | 140-3AC |
|---|---|
| Maximum Charge Current | 140 A |
| Maximum Alternator Current | 140 A |
| Number of Batteries | 3 |
| Nominal Battery Voltage | 12 V and 24 V |
| Alternator Energize Input | Yes |
| Connection | M8 Studs |
| Compensation Diode and Energize Connection | 6.3 mm Faston |
| Weight | 1.1 kg (2.5 lbs) |
| Dimensions H x W x D | 60 x 120 x 150 mm (2.4 x 4.7 x 5.9 in) |
| Voltage Drop at Low Current | Approximately 0.3 V |
| Voltage Drop at Rated Output | Approximately 0.45 V |
| SKU: | Vic-ARG140301020R |
| Barcode: | 8719076019107 |
| Model #: | ARG140301020R |
| MPN: | ARG140301020R |
WARRANTY
Victron Energy Limited Warranty Policy
Victron Energy warrants its products to be free from defects in workmanship and materials for a period of 5 years from the date of purchase by the end user, with a maximum of 66 months from the Victron Energy invoice date. Exceptions on this are: lead acid batteries; 2 years from date of purchase by the end user, with a maximum of 30 months from the Victron Energy invoice date, Lithium-ion batteries; 3 years from date of purchase by the end user. In addition to this proof of correct battery usage is required when making a battery warranty claim.
During this period, Victron Energy will, at its option, repair or replace the defective product free of charge. The warranty does not include performing or reimbursing de‐installation, transportation and re‐installation. This warranty will be considered void if the unit has suffered any physical damage or alteration, either internally or externally, and does not cover damages arising from improper use like: • Reverse of battery polarity. • Inadequate connection. • Mechanical shock or deformation. • Contact with liquid or oxidation by condensation. • Use in inappropriate environment (dust, corrosive vapor, humidity, high temperature, biological infestation...). • Breakage or damage due to lightning. • Connection terminals and screws destroyed or other damages, like overheat, due to insufficient tightening. • For any electronical breakage except due to lightning (reverse polarity, over‐voltage due to external cause), the state ofthe internal control diode and of the inputs/output X and Y capacitors determine the warranty.
This warranty will not apply where the product has been misused, neglected, improperly installed, or repaired by anyone else than Victron Energy or one of its authorized Qualified Service Partners. In order to qualify for the warranty, the product must not be disassembled or modified.
Repair or replacement are our sole remedies and Victron Energy shall not be liable for damages, whether direct, incidental,special, or consequential, even caused by negligence or fault.
Victron Energy owns all parts removed from repaired products. Victron Energy uses new or reconditioned parts made by various manufacturers in performing warranty repairs and building replacement products. If Victron Energy repairs or replaces a part of a product, its warranty term is not extended. In case of replacement the new component has a warranty of 6 months, without effect on the initial warranty period. All remedies and the measure for damages are limited to the above. Victron Energy shall in no event be liable for consequential, incidental, contingent orspecial damages, even if having been advised of the probability of such damages. Any and all other warranties expressed or implied arising by law, course of dealing, course of performance, usage of trade or otherwise, including but not limited to implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, are limited in duration to a period of two (2) years from the date of purchase.
Life Support Policy As a general policy, Victron Energy, does not recommend the use of any of its products in life support applications where failure or malfunction of the Victron Energy's product can be reasonably expected to cause failure of the life support device or to significantly affect its safety or effectiveness. Victron Energy does not recommend the use of any of its products in direct patient care. Victron Energy will not knowingly sell its products for use in such applications unless it receives in writing assurances satisfactory to Victron Energy that the risks of injury or damage have been minimized, the customer assumes all such risks, and the Liability of Victron Energy is adequately protected under the circumstances.
As a product requires service, it must be brought back to the place of purchase. In case no contact can be taken with the merchant, or if he is either unable or not allowed to provide service, direct contact should be taken with Victron Energy.
Warranty on Repairs The warranty period on products or on printed circuits boards repaired by Victron Energy as well as on printed circuit boards for replacement is 6 months from delivery by Victron Energy.
Transport It is the responsibility of the sender to sufficiently package these products. The transport must be organized in a way to avoid any damage, especially when a single unit or heavy unit is sent.
Severability If a part of the terms and conditions set out above is held invalid, void or unenforceable due to any particular national or international legislation, it shall not affect other parts of the terms and conditions remaining.
For Australia only Our goods come with guarantees that cannot be excluded under the Australian Consumer Law. You are entitled to a replacement or refund for a major failure and compensation for any other reasonably foreseeable loss or damage. You are also entitled to have the goods repaired or replaced if the goods fail to be of acceptable quality and the failure does not amount to a major failure.
Exotronic provides high-quality products and solutions tailored for B2B and commercial customers, including commercial businesses, caravan manufacturers, marine electricians, OEMs, as well as emergency services, and more.
