Victron Energy Filax 2 AC Transfer Switch, Under 20ms Switching Time

Overview

The Victron Energy Filax 2 is an ultra-fast AC transfer switch for keeping a sensitive AC load powered from either a priority source or an alternate source, with a maximum load transfer time of 16ms. On a boat, that makes it useful for equipment that should not drop out when AC supply changes, such as navigation support electronics, communications equipment, onboard computers, and entertainment systems.

The priority source is typically shore power, a generator, or mains AC, while the alternate source is typically an inverter. The Filax 2 uses open transition transfer, also known as break-before-make switching, and returns to the priority source after it has stayed within the voltage and frequency limits for 30 seconds.

The unit is rated for a maximum current of 16A and is housed in an IP65 ABS enclosure. It measures 120 x 255 x 75mm, weighs 0.8kg, and operates from -20°C to +50°C with non-condensing humidity up to 95%.

Key features

• Ultra-fast AC source transfer with a maximum load transfer time of 16ms for sensitive onboard loads.
• Open transition operation separates one AC source before connecting the other, which helps avoid source overlap during switching.
• Priority source input, alternate source input, and AC output terminals support a clear shore power, generator, or inverter changeover layout.
• Maximum current rating of 16A, with both inputs requiring protection against current levels higher than 16A.
• 50Hz or 60Hz operation is set by jumper, so the switching thresholds can be matched to the vessel’s AC frequency.
• IP65 ABS enclosure in RAL7035 light grey for installation in protected onboard locations where the casing may be exposed to damp air or splash risk.
• LED status indication shows whether the load is supplied by the priority source, supplied by the alternate source, or affected by a priority source fault.
• Not intended for high-power household equipment or electric motors, which keeps its role focused on sensitive and critical AC loads.

Variants

The Filax 2 is offered in two AC voltage and frequency configurations, allowing the transfer switch to match the vessel’s AC system standard.

The enclosure, maximum 16A current rating, 16ms maximum transfer time, IP65 protection category, operating temperature range, and overall dimensions remain the same across these configurations.

• SDFI0000000: AC voltage and frequency 230V/50Hz-240V/60Hz. This version fits AC installations in the 230V and 240V range, with 50Hz or 60Hz operation set by jumper during installation.
• SDFI0000110: AC voltage and frequency 110V/50Hz-120V/60Hz. This version fits AC installations in the 110V and 120V range, with 50Hz or 60Hz operation set by jumper during installation.

Installation and setup

The Filax 2 should be installed in an area that is dry and well ventilated, with the priority source, alternate source, and output connected according to the wiring layout. In a marine AC system, the priority side is commonly fed by shore power or a generator, and the alternate side by an inverter that can carry the selected sensitive load.

The frequency jumper matters during setup. A missing or incorrect jumper position can cause the voltage switching thresholds to be wrong for the system frequency, so the 50Hz or 60Hz configuration should be checked before the unit is put into service.

For connected loads below 850W, the internal wire bridges are removed as part of the installation. This step should be handled by a qualified installer familiar with marine AC wiring, overcurrent protection, and the vessel’s grounding arrangement.

Use cases on board

This transfer switch is a good match for boats that use more than one AC source and need selected low-current equipment to stay powered when the preferred supply drops outside its allowed voltage or frequency range. Common examples include a navigation station computer, network equipment, a small AV circuit, or other AC loads where a brief interruption can cause an unwanted reboot.

It is not the right device for heavy AC appliances, washing machines, or motor loads. For those circuits, the vessel’s AC distribution and transfer arrangement should be sized and selected separately.

Orders are processed within 2 business days, which includes verification, packing, and dispatch. Orders of $100 or more qualify for free shipping when eligible. For orders under $100, shipping costs are calculated at checkout based on destination, package weight, and selected service. International shipping is available for eligible products, and certain items may require additional handling, warehouse transfers, or may ship directly from the manufacturer, which can affect processing time.

Deliveries are handled by preferred carriers such as USPS, UPS, FedEx, DHL, and others depending on your location and selected service. Estimated delivery times are displayed at checkout and may vary due to customs processing, carrier delays, weather, postal disruptions, or other circumstances beyond our control. Once your order ships, you'll receive a confirmation email with tracking information. Tracking may take up to 24 hours to update on the carrier's website and is also available through your account when applicable.

We ship throughout the United States and to most international destinations for products eligible for international shipping. International orders may be subject to customs duties, taxes, brokerage charges, or other import fees, which are the customer's responsibility and are not included in the product or shipping price. PO Boxes are accepted only when shipping through USPS, and not all packages qualify for this option. If your order does not arrive within the estimated delivery window, please contact us at info@apollolighting.com or +1 (954) 375-0100 so we can assist with locating your package.

Learn more.

Returns may be requested within 30 days of receiving your order. Items must be unused, uninstalled, unaltered, and returned in their original packaging with all tags, packing materials, blank warranty cards, manuals, instructions, accessories, and included items. Certain products, including installed or used electronics, electrical components, lighting, consumables, custom or special-order items, cut-to-length products, safety equipment, and merchandise exposed to water or marine conditions, may not be eligible for return.

To request a return, sign in to your account and select the applicable order and items, and submit your request for review. Eligible unfulfilled items may also be submitted for cancellation within 1 hour of placing the order. Returns or cancellations are not considered approved until you receive confirmation from Apollo Lighting. Please do not ship or drop off merchandise before receiving return approval and instructions.

Customers are responsible for arranging and paying for return shipping unless the return is due to an error by Apollo Lighting or the item is verified as defective, damaged, or incorrect. Missing, damaged, defective, or incorrect items must be reported within 2 business days of delivery, and photos or other documentation may be required for review. If the issue is verified, Apollo Lighting may provide or reimburse return shipping and issue a replacement or refund depending on the circumstances. International customers are responsible for return shipping, duties, taxes, customs charges, brokerage fees, and other costs associated with an international return.

After your return is received and inspected, approved refunds are issued to the original payment method and may take 5-7 business days to appear after processing. Original shipping and handling charges are nonrefundable, and the value of any included free items that are not returned may be deducted from the refund. Apollo Lighting does not charge a standard restocking fee on eligible returns. Returns that are incomplete, damaged, installed, used, altered, improperly packaged, or otherwise do not meet the eligibility requirements may be refused. We recommend using a trackable and appropriately insured shipping service for all customer-arranged returns.

For assistance, contact info@apollolighting.com or call +1 (954) 375-0100.

Learn more.

Many products sold by Apollo Lighting include a manufacturer's warranty covering defects in materials or workmanship. Warranty terms vary by brand, product category, and model, so eligibility, coverage duration, exclusions, and available remedies are determined by the applicable manufacturer. We recommend reviewing the warranty information provided with your product before installation or use, especially for marine electronics, navigation equipment, lighting, electrical systems, pumps, safety equipment, and other specialized marine products.

If you need warranty service, the claim must follow the process established by the manufacturer, authorized service center, or designated warranty provider. You may be asked for proof of purchase, a serial number, product registration, photos, maintenance or installation records, or other documentation. Apollo Lighting does not determine or modify a manufacturer's warranty coverage or final claim decision, but we are happy to help provide purchase information and direct you to the appropriate manufacturer or warranty resource.

Keep your receipt, product documentation, serial number information, and original packaging when practical. Damage caused by normal wear, misuse, improper installation, insufficient maintenance, corrosion, impact, unauthorized modifications, electrical issues, or operation outside the manufacturer's specifications may not be covered. Warranty claims are separate from standard returns, so a product that has been installed, used, or exposed to marine conditions may no longer qualify for return while still remaining eligible for evaluation under the manufacturer's applicable warranty.

Learn more.