Essential programming interface for Victron VE.Bus inverter/charger configuration and firmware updates
Product Overview
The Victron Energy ASS030140000 Interface MK3-USB is a VE.Bus to USB adapter cable enabling PC/Mac communication with Victron inverters, inverter/chargers, and solar systems featuring VE.Bus communication ports. This interface cable bridges USB Type-A (computer) to RS-485 (Victron VE.Bus protocol), providing the critical connection required for initial system programming, parameter customization, and firmware updates using Victron's free VictronConnect or VEConfigure 3 software. Compatible with Multi, MultiPlus, MultiPlus-II, Quattro, EasySolar, EasyPlus, ECOmulti, and VE.Bus-equipped inverters, the MK3-USB enables configuration of output voltage/frequency, over/under voltage thresholds, relay programming, battery charge profiles, and advanced system settings impossible to adjust through front-panel controls alone. Essential for professional Victron installations in caravans, motorhomes, off-grid solar systems, and marine applications where optimized inverter/charger performance requires tailored programming beyond factory defaults, the MK3-USB represents a one-time investment eliminating ongoing technician callout costs for firmware updates or setting adjustments as system requirements evolve.
Key Specifications
- Part number: ASS030140000
- Barcode/EAN: 8719076019435
- Manufacturer: Victron Energy
- Product type: VE.Bus to USB interface programming cable
- Connection: USB Type-A (computer side) to RJ45 (VE.Bus side)
- Protocol: RS-485 (VE.Bus communication standard)
- Cable type: USB to RS-485 converter with integrated circuitry
- Software compatibility: VictronConnect, VEConfigure 3 (free download from Victron)
- Device compatibility: Multi, MultiGrid, MultiPlus, MultiPlus-II, Quattro, Inverter (VE.Bus models), ECOmulti, EasySolar, EasyPlus
- Operating systems: Windows PC, Mac (driver installation may be required)
- Cable connection: Requires standard RJ45 UTP cable (not included) between MK3-USB and Victron device
- Dimensions: 110mm × 80mm × 30mm (packaged)
- Weight: 90g (0.09kg)
Features & Benefits
VE.Bus to USB Type-A interface converts proprietary Victron VE.Bus RS-485 protocol to standard USB, enabling direct PC/Mac connection for programming without expensive dedicated programming hardware—single cable handles all configuration tasks across Victron's entire inverter/charger product range, eliminating need for model-specific programming equipment.
Free VictronConnect/VEConfigure 3 software compatibility accesses full programming capability without ongoing software licensing costs—download latest versions directly from Victron website, ensuring compatibility with new firmware releases and feature updates as Victron enhances product functionality over years of system ownership.
Comprehensive parameter customization enables adjustment of critical settings including output voltage (230V/240V), frequency (50Hz/60Hz), battery charge algorithms (AGM/Gel/Lithium profiles), over/under voltage thresholds, relay programming for generator start/auxiliary control, and AC input current limits—tailoring inverter/charger behavior to specific battery chemistry, load requirements, and installation constraints.
Firmware update capability allows installing latest Victron firmware releases containing bug fixes, performance improvements, and new features—avoiding obsolescence and maintaining warranty coverage requiring current firmware versions, while eliminating technician callout costs (typically $150-300 per visit) for updates that DIY owners can perform independently.
Professional installation time savings during initial system commissioning—experienced installers program multiple units efficiently using stored configuration profiles, while first-time installers benefit from ability to reference Victron documentation and adjust settings iteratively without trial-and-error through limited front-panel menus requiring cryptic button sequences.
Multi-device compatibility covers Victron's extensive inverter/charger lineup from compact MultiPlus 500VA units through large Quattro 15kVA three-phase systems—single MK3-USB cable handles residential off-grid solar, caravan installations, marine systems, and commercial backup power applications spanning decades of Victron product generations using VE.Bus protocol.
RS-485 communication standard ensures reliable data transmission in electrically noisy environments common to inverter installations—the differential signaling inherent to RS-485 provides superior noise immunity versus single-ended protocols, critical when programming devices located in engine rooms, generator sheds, or battery compartments with high electromagnetic interference.
Compact USB Type-A connector compatible with standard PC/Mac USB ports plus USB hubs—no special USB variants (micro/mini/Type-C adapters) required, though USB Type-C computers may need USB-C to USB-A adapter (commonly available) for connection to the MK3-USB's Type-A plug.
Technical Specs
- Part number: ASS030140000
- EAN/Barcode: 8719076019435
- Brand: Victron Energy
- Product type: VE.Bus to USB interface adapter/programming cable
- Computer connection: USB Type-A male plug
- Victron device connection: RJ45 female socket (requires standard UTP cable to device VE.Bus port)
- Protocol conversion: USB to RS-485 (VE.Bus communication standard)
- Integrated circuits: USB-to-serial converter with VE.Bus protocol support
- Compatible software:
- VictronConnect (latest generation, replacing VEConfigure)
- VEConfigure 3 (legacy, still functional)
- Available as free download from Victron Energy website
- Operating system compatibility:
- Windows (driver installation may be required)
- macOS (driver installation may be required)
- Compatible Victron products:
- Multi series inverter/chargers
- MultiGrid inverter/chargers
- MultiPlus series inverter/chargers
- MultiPlus-II series inverter/chargers
- Quattro series inverter/chargers
- Inverters with VE.Bus communication port (not all models)
- ECOmulti series
- EasySolar combined systems
- EasyPlus combined systems
- Programming capabilities:
- Output voltage adjustment
- Output frequency configuration (50Hz/60Hz)
- Over/under voltage protection thresholds
- Battery charge profiles (AGM/Gel/Lithium/Custom)
- AC input current limits
- Relay programming (generator control, auxiliary functions)
- Firmware updates
- Cable requirements: Standard RJ45 UTP cable (Cat5e/Cat6) between MK3-USB and Victron device (not included)
- Power: Bus-powered via USB (no external power supply required)
- Packaging dimensions: 110mm × 80mm × 30mm
- Shipping weight: 90g (0.09kg)
- Shipping cubic: 0.000264 m³
Compatible With / Goes Well With
- Victron MultiPlus inverter/chargers (all models with VE.Bus)
- Victron MultiPlus-II inverter/chargers (latest generation)
- Victron Quattro inverter/chargers (single and three-phase systems)
- Victron Multi series inverter/chargers
- Victron MultiGrid inverter/chargers
- Victron EasySolar combined inverter/MPPT systems
- Victron EasyPlus compact inverter/charger systems
- Victron ECOmulti inverter/chargers
- Victron Inverters with VE.Bus communication (verify model compatibility)
- RJ45 UTP network cables (Cat5e/Cat6, various lengths 1m-5m)
- Windows PC or Mac computer with USB port
- USB-C to USB-A adapters (for modern MacBooks/laptops without Type-A ports)
- Victron GX devices (Cerbo GX, Venus GX) for remote programming via VRM Portal
- Victron battery monitoring systems (BMV series)
- Lithium battery systems requiring specific charge profile programming
Weight
90g (0.09kg packaged)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need this cable if I have a Victron GX device (Cerbo/Venus)?
The MK3-USB is required for initial system programming and firmware updates. While GX devices enable remote monitoring via VRM Portal, they don't replace the MK3-USB for comprehensive parameter configuration or firmware updates—many advanced settings require direct MK3-USB connection. Consider the MK3-USB essential for installation/service, GX devices for ongoing monitoring.
Does this cable include the RJ45 cable to connect to my MultiPlus?
No, the MK3-USB terminates in an RJ45 socket requiring a standard UTP network cable (Cat5e/Cat6) to connect between the MK3-USB and your Victron device's VE.Bus port. These are commonly available 1m-5m network cables—same as home internet router cables. Keep cable length under 5m for reliable communication.
Can I use this with my laptop that only has USB-C ports?
Yes, but you'll need a USB-C to USB-A adapter (female USB-A to male USB-C) to connect the MK3-USB's Type-A plug to your laptop's USB-C port. These adapters are inexpensive and commonly available—ensure the adapter supports data transfer, not just charging.
Will this work with all Victron inverters?
The MK3-USB works with Victron devices featuring VE.Bus communication ports (RJ45 socket labeled VE.Bus). Older inverters or some compact models use different communication protocols (VE.Direct, VE.Can) requiring alternative interfaces. Check your inverter's specifications for "VE.Bus" before purchasing—MultiPlus, Quattro, and EasySolar models typically include VE.Bus.
Do I need programming experience to use this?
No programming experience required—VictronConnect software provides graphical interface for adjusting settings via drop-down menus and sliders. However, understanding inverter/charger concepts (battery types, charge profiles, voltage settings) is essential for safe configuration. Consult Victron manuals or professional installers if unfamiliar with electrical system parameters to avoid damaging batteries or equipment.
