question

kaz911 avatar image
kaz911 asked

Use 2nd Cerbo for sensors

Hi,

Is it now possible to use multiple Cerbo GX or Ekrano's in a network and share their data on fx. NMEA 2000 bus?

I have 6 tanks but Ekrano only got 3 tank sensor inputs. Adding a Cerbo GX would give another 4 tank inputs - cheaper than buying 3x VE.Can tank sensors and more "integrated"

Or does anyone know of a 3-4x resistive tank sensor compatible with Ekrano?


kind regards


/k


cerbo gxtank monitorekrano gx
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4 Answers
theo74 avatar image
theo74 answered ·

Why not use a GX Tank 140, which gives you 4 extra tanksensor inputs?

It’s USB powered, and works with sensors giving 4-20mA or 0-10V signal.

3 comments
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kaz911 avatar image kaz911 commented ·
because I have resistive tank sensors as mentioned - not 4-20 or 0-10v.... :)
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johnparvic avatar image johnparvic kaz911 commented ·

Take a look at https://community.victronenergy.com/questions/108147/can-someone-tell-me-about-resistance-based-sensors.html

You can use resistive sensors with 0-10V input or 4-20mA input!

You just need to add suitable resistors.

Kind regards

John

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kaz911 avatar image kaz911 johnparvic commented ·
yes but it makes it a bit cumbersome.

1. It is EURO sensors so 0 to 180 ohm - so you would probably need to do more than single resistor to stay reasonably precise.

2. You would need to provide a stabile power supply or your readings would vary with battery voltage. So another complexity issue.

But I think I found a solution as it turns out WEMA (sensor makers) actually now makes a 4-6 tank N2K resistive converter for less than £200! (Vs. 1 VE Can converter for £350)

I had been looking everywhere and found nothing for ages...


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johnparvic avatar image
johnparvic answered ·

The GX Tank 140 has two 24V outputs so might work for you!

Kind regards

John

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Guy Stewart (Victron Community Manager) avatar image
Guy Stewart (Victron Community Manager) answered ·

Hi @kaz911,

Using multiple GX devices for their additional inputs is possible - see here for the documentation on how to do it - https://www.victronenergy.com.au/media/pg/Cerbo_GX/en/connecting-supported-non-victron-products.html#UUID-9768e78d-bcfc-f391-52ce-b3dbbdc973ae

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Careful though: it easily becomes a hard to troubleshoot system.


I recommended this to a boatbuilder once, but will never do it again. Its better to then replace the tank senders for another type. More work, I know, but more simple system in the end.



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kaz911 avatar image
kaz911 answered ·

thanks all. I think I'll put the WEMA N2k tank readers in :)

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