Victron Cerbo GX MK3

The Victron Cerbo GX MK3 serves as the central communication, monitoring, and control unit of a networked Victron energy system. It consolidates data from compatible inverters/chargers, solar charge controllers, battery monitors, BMS systems, sensors, and other components onto a single platform.

In terms of connections, inputs and outputs, the enclosure, and system functions, the Cerbo GX MK3 is identical to the proven Cerbo GX MK2. The key difference lies in the new computing platform: A TI-AM625 processor with four Cortex-A53 cores, 1 GB of DDR4, and 64-bit architecture provides significantly more power for large-scale systems and custom automation solutions.

Three to four times the performance of the MK2

The Cerbo GX MK2 is powered by two Cortex-A7 cores and features a 32-bit architecture. The Cerbo GX MK3, on the other hand, has four Cortex-A53 cores, each running at 1.4 GHz, and modern DDR4 RAM.

According to Victron's performance comparison, the MK3 achieves approximately the three to four times the speed of the Cerbo GX MK2. As a result, the user interface responds more smoothly even during extensive data processing, and more processing power is available for additional services.

• TI-AM625 System-on-Chip
• Four Cortex-A53 processor cores running at 1.4 GHz
• Modern 64-bit architecture
• 1 GB of DDR4 RAM
• Depending on the load, about three to four times faster than the Cerbo GX MK2

Ideal for larger Node-RED installations

The biggest practical advantage of the new hardware becomes apparent in demanding Node-RED applications. With Node-RED, you can link measured values, system states, relays, notifications, time conditions, and external services together in custom workflows.

The additional processor cores and increased computing power provide more headroom for larger workflows, more complex automations, and comprehensive dashboards. The MK3 is therefore particularly well-suited for installations in which, in addition to the standard GX functions, numerous data points are processed or multiple automation tasks are executed in parallel.

Centrally Monitor and Control the Victron System

The Cerbo GX MK3 provides a clear overview of the recorded energy and operational data. Using the Remote Console, the system can be operated locally on the network or via the Victron Remote Management Portal. The VRM Portal enables remote monitoring, analysis, alerting, and management of the system when an Internet connection is available.

For local operation, the Cerbo GX MK3 can be paired with an optional GX Touch 50 or GX Touch 70. Alternatively, it can be accessed via a web browser, a mobile device, or a compatible display connected to the HDMI output.

Extensive communication interfaces

With VE.Bus, three VE.Direct-AnschlAnd two separately configurable VE.Can-Schnittstellen The Cerbo GX MK3 integrates numerous Victron components into a single system.

• 2 × VE.Bus RJ45: Jacks connected in parallel for a compatible VE.Bus-System
• 3 × VE.Direct: for compatible solar charge controllers, battery monitors, chargers, and other devices
• 2 × VE.Can: Two separate CAN interfaces, each with two RJ45 jacks; VE.Can 1 is electrically isolated
• 3 × USB Host: for connecting supported USB devices and interfaces
• Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth: for network access, initial setup, and communication
• HDMI: for a suitable external monitor
• MicroSD: Card slot for cards up to 32 GB

Sensors, Tank Monitoring, and Relays

In addition to the communication ports, the Cerbo GX MK3 has several inputs and outputs for directly monitoring and controlling other system functions.

• 4 inputs for resistive tank level sensors
• 4 inputs for compatible temperature sensors
• 4 digital inputs with pulse counting
• 2 programmable relays with NO, COM, and NC contacts

Suitable Applications

• RV, expedition, and adventure vehicles
• Boats, Yachts, and Marine Energy Systems
• Off-grid systems, alpine huts, and off-grid buildings
• Home Energy Storage and Victron ESS Systems
• Commercial Facilities with Remote Monitoring
• Systems with Generator Control and Emergency Power Supply
• Comprehensive Node-RED Automations

Technical Specifications

Conclusion

The Victron Cerbo GX MK3 combines the proven connectivity options of the Cerbo GX MK2 with a significantly more powerful 64-bit platform. This makes it the ideal choice for extensive Victron energy systems and especially for users who want to run larger Node-RED flows, custom dashboards, or sophisticated automation.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Victron Cerbo GX MK3

• What's the difference between the Cerbo GX MK3 and the Cerbo GX MK2?

  
  

  The ports, inputs and outputs, casing, and GX features are the same. However, the MK3 features a new 64-bit quad-core processor and DDR4 RAM. As a result, it delivers approximately three to four times the performance, depending on the load.

• Why is the MK3 particularly well-suited for Node-RED?

  
  

  Node-RED flows and comprehensive dashboards place a heavy load on the processor and memory. The new computing platform provides significantly more processing power for larger flows, numerous data points, and automations running in parallel.

• How do you enable Node-RED on the Cerbo GX MK3?

  
  

  Node-RED is part of Venus OS Large. In the firmware settings, first select the "Large" image type. After installation, Node-RED can be enabled under "Integrations."

• Does the Cerbo GX MK3 have a built-in display?

  
  

  No. For direct operation, a GX Touch 50 or GX Touch 70 can be connected as an option. Alternatively, you can access the system via the Remote Console, a web browser, or the VRM Portal.

• Can an existing Cerbo GX MK2 be replaced with the MK3?

  
  

  Since the connections, housing, and functions remain the same, the MK3 is essentially intended to be a high-performance successor. However, before replacing the unit, you should check the current firmware, the system configuration, and the manufacturer's documentation.