The Victron Filax 2 is an ultra-fast automatic transfer switch that keeps critical and sensitive loads such as computers, industrial controls and modern entertainment equipment powered by switching between two AC sources. The priority source is typically the grid, a generator or shore power, and the alternate source is typically an inverter. This version is for 230 V / 50 Hz and 240 V / 60 Hz systems.
With a maximum load transfer time of 16 ms, the Filax 2 is an open transition (break-before-make) switch. It moves the load to the alternate source if the priority source voltage falls below the threshold, or if its frequency drops below or rises above the set limits, and it transfers back once the priority source has been stable for 30 seconds.
Three LED indicators show whether the load is running from the priority source, the alternate source, or whether the priority source has faulted, and the IP65 ABS enclosure is only 0.8 kg.
16 ms
Max load transfer time
30 s
Reverse transfer delay
230 V / 50 Hz
Also 240 V / 60 Hz (jumper)
IP65
ABS enclosure, RAL 7035
Installer Safety Note – Mains Voltage Equipment
This unit switches mains-voltage supplies and must be installed by a competent electrician in accordance with BS 7671. Both the priority and alternate inputs must be protected against current above 16 A. Install the Filax in a dry, well-ventilated area, and connect the input and output cables according to the wiring diagram.
Not for High-Power Household Equipment
The Filax 2 is not intended to supply high-power household equipment such as washing machines or electric motors. For loads of less than 850 W, the wire bridges in the terminal block must be removed.
Set the 50 / 60 Hz Jumper Correctly
The mains frequency is set with a jumper: no jumper for 50 Hz (UK mains) and a jumper fitted for 60 Hz. If the jumper is not set for the system frequency, the voltage switching thresholds will be incorrect.
Key Features
Open Transition Switching
A break-before-make transfer switch with a maximum load transfer time of 16 ms. Victron quotes a switching time of under 20 ms, so sensitive loads continue to operate without disruption.
Voltage and Frequency Monitoring
The load is transferred to the alternate source if the priority source voltage drops below the threshold (180 V on this model) or its frequency leaves the permitted window.
Automatic Reverse Transfer
Once the priority source has stayed within the reverse switching limits of voltage and frequency for 30 seconds, the load is transferred back to it automatically.
Clear LED Status
Yellow shows the load running on the priority source, a second yellow LED shows the alternate source, and a red LED indicates a priority source fault.
IP65 ABS Enclosure
A compact, light IP65-rated ABS case in RAL 7035 grey. The front is secured with four supplied screws.
50 / 60 Hz Selection
One unit covers both 230 V / 50 Hz and 240 V / 60 Hz systems, selected with a simple jumper inside the unit.
Switching Thresholds
Thresholds for the priority source on the 230 V / 50 Hz and 240 V / 60 Hz versions of the Filax 2.
Parameter
230 V / 50 Hz
240 V / 60 Hz
Low voltage switching threshold
180 V
180 V
Low voltage reverse switching threshold
188 V
188 V
Low frequency switching threshold
45 Hz
46 Hz
Low frequency reverse switching threshold
47 Hz
52 Hz
High frequency switching threshold
60 Hz
68 Hz
High frequency reverse switching threshold
56 Hz
63 Hz
Max continuous input voltage (priority and alternate)
260 V
260 V
Technical Specifications
Electrical
Model covered
Filax 2, 230 V / 50 Hz – 240 V / 60 Hz
Maximum load transfer time and reverse transfer time
16 ms
Reverse switching delay
30 s
Transfer type
Open transition (break-before-make)
Priority source
Grid, generator or shore power (typical)
Alternate source
Inverter (typical)
Indicators
Load supplied by priority source
Yellow LED
Load supplied by alternate source
Yellow LED
Priority source fault
Red LED
General and Enclosure
Operating temperature range
−20 °C to +50 °C
Humidity (non-condensing)
Max 95 %
Material and colour
ABS, RAL 7035
Dimensions (h × w × d)
120 × 255 × 75 mm
Part number (MPN)
SDFI0000000
Standards
Safety
EN 60335-1, EN 60335-2-29
Emission and immunity
EN 55014-1, EN 55014-2, EN 61000-3-3, EN 61000-6-3, EN 61000-6-2, EN 61000-6-1
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an open transition and a bridging switch?
The Filax 2 is an open transition (break-before-make) switch: it disconnects from one source before connecting to the other, with a maximum transfer time of 16 ms. The two sources are never connected to the load at the same time.
When does the Filax 2 switch to the alternate source?
It switches when the priority source voltage drops below the threshold (180 V on this model), or when the priority source frequency falls below the low threshold or rises above the high threshold for the selected 50 Hz or 60 Hz setting.
When does it switch back to the priority source?
Reverse transfer starts once the priority source has operated within the reverse switching limits of voltage and frequency for 30 seconds.
Can I use it for a washing machine, motor or other heavy load?
No. Victron states the Filax 2 is not intended for high-power household equipment such as washing machines or electric motors. It is designed for sensitive loads such as computers, industrial controls and entertainment equipment, up to a maximum of 16 A.
Why do I need to remove the wire bridges?
If the connected load is less than 850 W, the wire bridges in the terminal block should be removed, as shown on the wiring diagram in the manufacturer's datasheet.
How do I set it for 50 Hz?
Frequency is set with a jumper: for 50 Hz leave the jumper off, and for 60 Hz fit it. If the jumper does not match the system frequency, the voltage thresholds will be incorrect.