Overview

The Victron Energy ORI244840120 is an Orion-Tr Smart 24/48-8.5A isolated DC-DC charger for charging a 48V service battery from a 24V starter battery or alternator source. It uses an adaptive 3-stage charge profile with bulk, absorption and float stages, and it is suitable for lead-acid and lithium batteries. The unit has an 8.5A nominal output rating at 40°C, a 400W rating at 40°C, a 16-35V input range and an adjustable 40-60V output range.

On board, this charger makes sense when the engine charging system and service bank operate at different voltages, or when a controlled charging path is needed between battery banks. The isolated layout keeps the input, output and case separated, which helps in systems where the starter side and house side have different grounding arrangements.

Key features

• 24V to 48V isolated DC-DC charging for dual-battery marine and mobile electrical systems.
• 8.5A nominal output current at 40°C with a 400W rating for 48V battery charging.
• 16-35V input range and 40-60V adjustable output range for 48V system setup.
• Adaptive 3-stage charging with bulk, absorption and float stages for lead-acid and lithium batteries.
• Built-in Bluetooth for setup, monitoring and updates through VictronConnect.
• Remote on/off input and engine running detection for controlled charging from an alternator source.
• Galvanic isolation of 200 VDC between input, output and case.
• Short-circuit protection and support for parallel connection when more output current is needed.
• Screw terminal DC connection with cable acceptance up to 16 mm² or AWG 6.
• IP43 protection for the electronic components when mounted with the screw terminals facing downward.

Installation and fit

Mount the charger where it has airflow and where cable runs can stay practical between the 24V source and the 48V battery bank. The enclosure measures 130 x 186 x 70 mm and weighs about 1.6 kg, so it fits well in many electrical lockers, console spaces and equipment panels while still leaving room for service access.

The screw-terminal orientation matters for the stated ingress protection. When the IP43 rating is part of the installation plan, the charger should be mounted with the terminals facing downward. The connection area should still be treated as a protected electrical location rather than an exposed deck or wet locker.

Electrical and system integration

This charger can work as a battery charger or as a constant-voltage power supply, with the output voltage set by Bluetooth. In a marine charging layout, that matters when a 24V engine or starter circuit needs to feed a 48V auxiliary or house bank in a controlled way instead of tying the banks directly together.

Engine shutdown detection helps prevent unwanted discharge of the starter battery when the engine is not running. The remote on/off connection can also be tied into a switch or relay contact, which is useful at helm panels, battery control panels or automated charging schemes.

Thermal and onboard use

The operating temperature range is -20°C to +55°C, with derating above 40°C. Location matters in engine rooms and tight electrical compartments; keeping the cooling fins clear and avoiding heat-soaked mounting spots helps the charger hold output during long motoring runs.

This unit is a good match for boats using a 24V charging source and a 48V battery bank for house loads, propulsion support equipment or other DC systems that need controlled charging while underway.