Victron Energy Filax 2 Transfer Switch

The Victron Filax 2 is a specialized automatic AC transfer switch designed to seamlessly switch critical or sensitive electrical loads between two alternating current (AC) power sources — such as the mains/grid, a generator or shore power, and an inverter — without interrupting operation.In markets like Tanzania, where grid reliability can be inconsistent and backup systems (generators, inverters, solar + battery systems) are common, the Filax 2 offers a practical solution for ensuring continuity for computers, communication gear, entertainment systems, and other sensitive electronics.

Features & Benefits

• Ultra-Fast Transfer (<20ms Switching Time): Ensures seamless power transition between AC sources, preventing computers, routers, CCTV systems, and entertainment equipment from restarting during outages.
• Automatic Dual-Source Switching: Instantly switches between priority source (mains, generator, or shore power) and alternate source (inverter) without manual intervention—ideal for backup power systems in Tanzania.
• Designed for Sensitive Loads (16A Rated): Optimised specifically for low-to-medium power electronics, protecting delicate devices from interruptions while avoiding unnecessary stress on heavy appliances.
• 50Hz & 60Hz Compatibility: Supports both 230V/50Hz–240V/60Hz and 110V/50Hz–120V/60Hz models, making it adaptable for various grid and inverter setups.
• Break-Before-Make Safety Design: Prevents simultaneous connection of two power sources, ensuring safe and reliable switching without risk of backfeeding.
• Smart Return Delay (30 Seconds): Prevents rapid switching during unstable grid conditions by delaying the return to the primary source—ideal for areas with fluctuating power supply.
• Compact & Durable Construction (IP65 Housing): Dust- and splash-resistant enclosure suitable for installation in inverter rooms, telecom cabinets, workshops, and marine environments.
• Perfect for Backup & Solar Systems: Integrates seamlessly with inverter systems, including those from Victron Energy, making it a reliable addition to hybrid solar and generator setups.
• Energy Continuity for Businesses & Homes: Ideal for offices, shops, telecom equipment, POS systems, and residential backup systems where uninterrupted power is critical.

Use Cases

• Residential Backup Power Systems: Automatically switches between TANESCO grid power and an inverter during outages, keeping TVs, Wi-Fi routers, laptops, and home office equipment running without interruption.
• Small Offices & Corporate Workstations: Protects desktop computers, servers, printers, and networking equipment from sudden shutdowns during power cuts, preventing data loss and workflow disruption.
• Retail Shops & POS Systems: Ensures uninterrupted operation of point-of-sale machines, barcode scanners, receipt printers, and CCTV systems in shops, supermarkets, and pharmacies.
• Telecommunications & Networking Installations: Maintains continuous power to routers, switches, modems, and communication racks—ideal for telecom towers and ISP distribution points.
• Solar + Inverter Hybrid Systems: Works seamlessly within backup systems using inverters from Victron Energy, enabling automatic switching between grid and inverter supply.
• Medical Clinics & Small Laboratories: Supports uninterrupted power to diagnostic devices, monitoring equipment, and sensitive electronics that cannot tolerate sudden shutdowns.
• Marine & Shore Power Applications: Switches smoothly between shore power and onboard inverter systems for boats and yachts, protecting onboard electronics.
• Educational Institutions & Computer Labs: Keeps classroom computers and networking equipment operational during short grid interruptions, reducing downtime.

Value Propositions

• Uninterrupted Power for Critical Electronics: With ultra-fast switching (under 20ms), sensitive devices like computers, routers, and CCTV systems continue operating without rebooting during power transitions.
• Business Continuity & Data Protection: Reduces downtime and prevents data loss in offices, retail shops, and service businesses—especially valuable in areas with unstable grid supply.
• Seamless Integration with Backup Systems: Designed to work effortlessly with inverters and generators, particularly within systems built around Victron Energy products.
• Cost-Effective Alternative to Large UPS Systems: Provides reliable transfer switching without the higher cost and maintenance requirements of large uninterrupted power supply (UPS) units.
• Improved Equipment Protection: Minimises stress on sensitive electronics by ensuring stable power transitions and preventing abrupt shutdowns or voltage dips.
• Ideal for Solar & Hybrid Installations in Tanzania: Enhances the performance of solar + inverter setups by automatically prioritising grid or generator power when available.
• Compact, Durable & Easy to Install: Small footprint and IP65-rated housing allow flexible installation in inverter rooms, control panels, or telecom cabinets.
• Smart Power Management: Features built-in return delay to prevent unnecessary switching during unstable grid recovery, improving overall system reliability.

Local Market Positioning in Tanzania

• Addresses Grid Instability & Frequent Outages: Tanzania continues to experience intermittent power cuts and voltage fluctuations due to ageing distribution infrastructure, leading to disruptions for households and businesses alike.
• Enhanced Reliability for Urban & Rural Users: While grid access is widespread, power quality and consistency vary significantly, especially in urban centres like Dar es Salaam and in rural areas — making reliable backup systems essential.
• Ideal Complement to Solar & Inverter Growth: Tanzania’s solar adoption and hybrid inverter installations are rising as consumers seek alternatives to grid reliance, creating demand for intelligent switching solutions like Filax 2 that optimise backup power usage.
• Fills a Gap Left by Basic Backup Options: Many backup systems in Tanzania (generators or standalone inverters) simply supply power without smart switching; Filax 2’s fast automatic switching enhances robustness and protects sensitive electronics, making it more valuable than basic inverters alone.
• Supports Small Businesses Facing Power Disruptions: Shops, offices, clinics, and service providers rely on sensitive IT equipment; Filax 2 helps keep these operational during outages—boosting productivity and reducing losses attributable to unreliable electricity.
• Positioned as a Premium Reliability Solution: In a market where consumers often use generators or basic inverters, Filax 2 stands out as an advanced, specialised switch that complements higher-tier backup systems and delivers consistent performance where reliability is crucial.
• Appeals to Tech-Savvy & Commercial Buyers: With more Tanzanian homes and enterprises investing in solar + battery setups and UPS systems, Filax 2 becomes a value-add product that enhances overall energy continuity and integrates well into hybrid power environments.
• Reduces Dependence on Constant Generator Use: Rather than running noisy, expensive generators every time the grid cuts out, Filax 2 allows smoother transitions to inverter or battery power, saving fuel and lowering operational costs.

Technical Specification