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Neovolt via Modbus RTU (RS-485)

This guide describes step by step how to connect a Neovolt battery system to the Currentt Navigator via Modbus RTU over RS-485.

See also: For connection via the network (Modbus TCP), see the guide Neovolt Modbus TCP.


✅ Compatible models

ModelPower
BW-INV-SPH5K + BW-BAT-10.1P5 kW
BW-INV-SPH3.6K + BW-BAT-10.1P3.6 kW
BW-INV-SPB5K + BW-BAT-10.1P5 kW (AC-coupled)
BW-INV-TPH10K + BW-BAT-4.8S10 kW (three-phase)

🧰 Requirements

  • Currentt Navigator Pro (with RS-485 Modbus connection)
  • RS-485 cable with RJ45 connector (CAT5)

1️⃣ Step 1: Install the Neovolt

  1. Install the Neovolt according to the supplied installation manual
  2. Ensure the system is powered on and functioning correctly

2️⃣ Step 2: Connect RS-485 cable

Communication panel on the Neovolt inverter

  1. Loosen the swivel nuts on the cable glands of the COM connection cover
  2. Remove the 4 screws from the COM connection cover (PH2, 1.5 Nm)
  3. Lead the communication cable through the cable gland (do not tighten the swivel nut yet)
  4. Connect a CAT5 cable with RJ45 connector to the RS485 port on the inverter
  5. Connect the other end to the RS-485 Modbus connection on the Currentt Navigator
  6. Place the COM connection cover back and tighten the 4 screws
  7. Tighten the swivel nut of the cable gland

RS485 port pin definition (RJ45)

RJ45 plug pin definition (T568B)

The RS485 port uses an RJ45 connector (T568B). Only pins 4 and 5 are used:

Communication port pin definition

PinFunction
1
2
3
4RS485_B (Data −)
5RS485_A (Data +)
6
7
8
Ground connection

Connect the ground (GND) on one side only: either to the Currentt Navigator or to the device — but never on both sides. Connecting ground on both sides can cause a ground loop, leading to communication errors.


3️⃣ Step 3: Enable Modbus on the inverter

Modbus must be manually enabled via the LCD display on the inverter.

  1. Navigate on the display to Function
  2. Enter the installer password: 1111
  3. Go to ModBus
  4. Set Modbus enable to YES
  5. Confirm the setting

4️⃣ Step 4: Configuration in the Currentt Navigator

After connecting and configuring the inverter, the battery must be added in the Currentt Navigator.

  1. Click the settings icon (top right of the screen)
  2. Choose Setup Wizard
  3. Follow the on-screen steps

Manual configuration

  1. Click the settings icon (top right of the screen)
  2. Go to Components
  3. Click the + button in the Batteries section
  4. Select Neovolt
  5. Enter the connection details:
ParameterValue
ConnectionModbus RTU (RS-485)
Modbus address85 (default)
Baud rate9600
Data bits8
ParityNone (N / disabled)

📋 Settings summary

ParameterValue
ConnectionRS-485 (Modbus RTU)
ProtocolModbus RTU
ConnectorRJ45
Modbus address85 (default)
Baud rate9600
Data bits8
ParityNone (N / disabled)

🛟 Troubleshooting

ProblemPossible causeSolution
No connectionModbus not enabledCheck that Modbus enable is set to YES via the LCD display
No connectionWrong wiringCheck the RS-485 cable and RJ45 connection
No connectionWrong Modbus address or baud rateCheck that the Modbus address is set to 85 and the baud rate to 9600
Battery not respondingSystem not powered onCheck that the Neovolt is powered on and operational