Victron Orion XS 12/12-50A Quick Guide
Simple Rhinomax-specific information to understand, operate and troubleshoot your Victron Orion XS 12/12-50A DC-DC charger. This guide focuses on day-to-day use in your camper. For full technical details, wiring diagrams and fault codes, download the complete Victron manual below.
⚙️ Basic Operation (Rhinomax Edition)
How the Orion XS works in your Rhinomax and what “normal” looks like.
How It Works in Your Camper
In a Rhinomax, the Orion XS is used as a DC-DC alternator charger between the tow vehicle starter battery and the camper’s house battery bank. When correctly configured, it:
- Starts charging automatically when the engine/alternator is running.
- Separates the starter and house batteries when the engine is off.
- Limits current to protect the alternator and wiring.
Normal Charging Behaviour
In Charger mode the Orion XS follows a 4-stage profile (Bulk, Absorption, Float, Storage) matched to your battery type. You’ll typically see:
- High current initially (up to the configured output limit).
- Current tapering off as the battery approaches full.
- Unit reducing or pausing charge if it gets too hot or input voltage sags.
This is normal and protects both the charger and your batteries.
Checking Status with VictronConnect
Use the free VictronConnect app (Bluetooth) for setup and monitoring:
- Open the app and connect to “Orion XS…”.
- Confirm Mode = Charger and select the correct battery preset (e.g. Victron Lithium / AGM, as set by Rhinomax).
- Check Input current limit (protects alternator) and Output current limit (protects wiring and batteries).
- Review live input/output volts & amps when the engine is running.
Engine Detection & “Forced” Charging
The Orion XS has engine shutdown detection so it only charges when the alternator is supplying power. In VictronConnect this can be:
- Enabled – recommended for most vehicles and Rhinomax setups.
- Disabled (“forced charging”) – will keep drawing from the starter battery even with the engine off.
Important: If engine detection is disabled, be careful not to flatten the tow vehicle’s starter battery by charging for long periods with the engine off.
🔌 Key Settings for a Rhinomax Install
These are the settings your installer or service tech will usually confirm or adjust.
Engine Shutdown Detection
Under Settings → Engine shutdown detection you can:
- Select alternator type (Smart or Regular).
- Set start voltage and shutdown voltage (“engine off” threshold).
- Add a delay so the starter battery is replenished after cranking.
These are usually pre-configured by Rhinomax or your auto-sparky and should only be changed if requested by support.
Input Voltage Lock-Out
The Input voltage lock-out setting stops the charger when the tow vehicle voltage drops too low and restarts when it’s healthy again. This:
- Protects the starter battery from over-discharge.
- Prevents nuisance resets and chatter when voltage is marginal.
Typical restart thresholds are around 12.5 V or higher for 12 V systems.
Current Limits
Both Input current and Output current can be set in 0.1 A steps in VictronConnect. In a Rhinomax install, these are tuned to:
- Stay within the tow vehicle alternator’s safe continuous output.
- Match cabling size and fuse ratings.
- Suit the house battery capacity (especially lithium).
Remote On/Off
The Orion XS has a remote on/off terminal for:
- A wired switch or ignition feed.
- A lithium BMS “allowed-to-charge” output.
In most Rhinomax builds, this is pre-wired; you should not need to alter this unless directed by a qualified technician.
🔧 Troubleshooting & Status
Simple checks to run through before calling support.
Orion XS appears off / no charge to house battery
- Confirm the engine is running and alternator is charging.
- Check the input and output fuses and any main battery isolators.
- Open VictronConnect and verify:
- Mode is set to Charger, not Power Supply.
- Engine shutdown detection is enabled and not holding it off.
- Input voltage is high enough (above lock-out level).
- Visually inspect DC cabling for loose lugs or damage at the unit and batteries.
House battery undercharging or not reaching 100%
- Check the Battery preset is correct for your battery type.
- Ensure the Output current limit is not set too low for your system.
- Look for heavy DC loads running while driving (they may be using most of the charge current).
- Confirm alternator and cabling are sized correctly and that voltage drop is not excessive.
If batteries still don’t reach full charge, note the readings in VictronConnect and contact Rhinomax or your installer with screenshots.
Unit gets hot or reduces output (“derates”)
- The Orion XS uses its aluminium body as a heat sink – it will run warm to hot under load.
- Make sure there is at least 10 cm of clear space around the unit for airflow.
- Check it’s mounted on a solid, non-flammable surface, not inside a sealed box without ventilation.
- If operating in very high ambient temperatures, reducing the output current limit can help.
Error / warning indications
The Orion XS uses three LEDs and warnings in VictronConnect to show errors and status (over-temperature, input voltage too low, wiring faults, internal errors, etc.).
- Open VictronConnect to see active warnings / errors and suggested actions.
- Record any error text or codes shown in the app.
- If faults persist after power cycling (disconnect/reconnect input), contact support.
For the full LED table and error code list, refer to the Victron Orion XS user manual (PDF).
🛠️ Preventative Maintenance Tips
Look after the Orion XS and it will quietly look after your batteries.
Visual & Cable Checks
Periodically inspect all DC cables, lugs and fuses between tow vehicle and camper. Look for loose hardware, heat discolouration, chafing or corrosion and have any issues rectified by a qualified auto-electrician.
Keep It Cool & Dry
Ensure the Orion XS remains in a dry, ventilated space away from direct spray, chemical fumes and soft furnishings. Do not block airflow around the unit or mount it directly above batteries.
VictronConnect & Firmware
Use VictronConnect occasionally to check for firmware updates and to confirm settings haven’t been accidentally changed. Avoid experimenting with advanced options unless you know what you are adjusting.