Victron Energy ArgoDiode 80-2SC dual-output diode battery isolator — 2-battery 80A, Schottky low voltage drop

Victron Energy ArgoDiode 80-2SC is a dual-output diode battery isolator that lets one alternator charge two batteries independently while preventing one battery from discharging the other.

If you run multiple 12 V battery banks in a vehicle, boat, or off-grid vehicle, the ArgoDiode 80-2SC provides a simple, maintenance-free way to let one alternator charge both batteries without tying the banks together. It uses Schottky diodes for lower voltage drop, and each output includes a compensation diode so alternator voltage can be slightly raised to offset the diode drop. The unit is compact, rugged, and designed for continuous automotive or marine duty where keeping starter and accessory batteries separate is essential.

How does the ArgoDiode keep batteries from draining one another?

The isolator routes alternator charge to each battery through individual Schottky diodes, so current cannot flow back from one battery to the other. That means if an accessory battery runs flat, it cannot discharge the starter battery through the isolator.

• Independent outputs prevent reverse current between battery banks.
• Schottky diodes provide low forward voltage drop for efficient charging.
• Solid-state design avoids mechanical wear or relay failure.

Will this isolator let my alternator properly charge both batteries?

Yes — the ArgoDiode 80-2SC allows simultaneous charging of two batteries from one alternator while avoiding battery interconnection. It includes a compensation diode that slightly raises alternator voltage to offset the diode drop, improving charge acceptance.

• Dual outputs sized for up to 80 A each throughput under normal conditions.
• Compensation diode adjusts alternator output to ensure full-charge voltages reach batteries.
• Designed for use with standard vehicle and marine alternators without complex controls.

What are the practical installation and performance details I should know?

The ArgoDiode mounts close to the alternator or in a protected electrical compartment and connects via heavy-gauge battery cable to the alternator and each battery. Its Schottky diodes reduce heat and voltage loss compared with traditional silicon diodes, increasing charging efficiency while minimizing temperature rise.

• Compact housing for easy mounting in engine bays or electrical lockers.
• Low voltage drop improves final charge voltage delivered to each battery.
• Robust enough for continuous automotive and marine service; wiring must match rated amperage.

How does this compare to relay-based battery isolators or automatic isolators?

Solid-state diode isolators like the ArgoDiode have no moving parts, providing silent, maintenance-free operation and faster switching than mechanical relays. They do allow a small voltage loss across the diode, which the compensation diode helps correct, whereas relays provide near-zero voltage drop when closed but rely on mechanical contacts that can fail.

• Solid-state = no contact wear, instant operation, silent performance.
• Schottky diodes reduce forward voltage loss compared with older diode designs.
• Compensation diode mitigates charging voltage reduction common to diode isolators.

Who is this for: The Victron Energy ArgoDiode 80-2SC is aimed at vehicle owners, professional installers, boaters, and off-grid enthusiasts who need a reliable way to charge two 12 V batteries from a single alternator while keeping battery banks electrically separate. Choose this model if you want a compact, maintenance-free diode isolator with low voltage drop and compensation features to improve charge acceptance across both starter and accessory batteries.