As we know, lithium batteries feature an internal BMS module that monitors their condition and ensures safe operation. However, not all lithium batteries can share internal data with external devices. BMS communication allows lithium batteries to share real-time data with other devices in off-grid or backup power systems. The most common application is sharing battery information with inverter. Most of inverters and monitoring systems feature data ports for communication with external devices. These ports enable data cables to connect the batteries and inverter, allowing the Battery Management System (BMS) in the lithium battery to share real-time information with the inverter or other equipment.

RS485 and CANbus are network communication protocols used by battery and inverter manufacturers to facilitate device communication. It is typical for batteries, inverters, and monitoring equipment to support both protocols, enhancing compatibility among different devices.

However, BMS communication is primarily used in server rack battery systems for off-grid or emergency backup power. Most 48volt batteries come with wired BMS communication, whereas most 12volt batteries do not have this feature. Therefore bluetooth communication is increasingly common in some 12volt LFP batteries, allowing users to access BMS data via a mobile app.

Bely Energy specializes in designing and manufacturing high-quality, long-lasting battery solution, that have launched 12volt batteries with CAN bus support and seamless Victron compatibility. They are designed to improve the monitoring and control of the 12volt battery system, enhancing its reliability and longevity.

Connecting to Victron Energy System Equipment

Victron Energy systems rely heavily on communication between devices. VE.Direct is Victron's proprietary communication protocol. Bely’s battery with communication ports can connect to Victron via communication prorocol CANbus. When Bely’s batteries connect to the Victron's network, internal battery data can be used by Victron modules to monitor battery status

Including:

State of Charge (SOC)

Battery Voltage and Current

Cells Temperature

Individual Cell Voltages

BMS Alarm States

Charge Voltage Limit (CVL)

Charge Current Limit(CCL)

Discharge Current Limit(DCL)

Multi-Battery Communication

Bely’s batteries support multi-battery configurations using the RS485 ports on the battery lid. Once connected, the battery system automatically determines the master unit - no DIP switches or manual configuration is required. Once connected, all relevant battery data including voltage, current, state of charge (SOC), alarm notifications and detailed information about cells will be accessible through the Victron interface, consolidated via the automatically selected master battery.

The BMS monitors more than just battery voltage, current flow, and SOC. Accessing this extended data through BMS communication offers several benefits:

Accurate Battery Status Monitoring

Remote monitoring and control via the internet are highly useful, but they depend on the data available to the inverter or monitoring component. The SOC calculated by the inverter may not be as accurate as the value calculated by the BMS.

Efficient Battery Charging

Internal voltage, temperature, and state-of-charge of a battery are crucial factors in battery charging algorithms. Advanced inverter chargers can adjust the charging process in real-time by continuously monitoring these internal conditions.

Monitor Data on a Single Screen

Switching between various screens or apps to check your system status can be frustrating. With BMS communication, you can monitor the battery and other system components in one place. This all-in-one inverter or monitoring device offers a comprehensive, accurate system-wide view.

Given the rapid evolution of battery and inverter technology, along with an increasing demand for solar and battery capacity in motorhomes, there is a notable shift away from 12V systems towards more advanced setups. If you are interested in learning more about our batteries with communication ports featuring RS485 and CANbus functionality, please visit our website at www.belybattery.com or do not hesitate to contact us directly for further information.