So this thread hasn't been updated in a while it seems. I've done a lot of testing with other BMS' and I'm pretty much coming around to the realization that the Orion might be the way to go. I've tried Chinese products (JK branded BLE and RS-485) and the quality is what you'd expect. The BLE works pretty good - the RS-485 not so much. Support is the main problem with these - language barrier is also a problem. I've also tried Daly BLE+RS-485 and it works OK, but I'm concerned about support and I'm not really interested in having the BMS inline with the current path. I'd rather have a "Battery Monitor System" than a battery management system. Lastly, I bought a GWL PCM board along with their BCC module which front-ends the PCM (monitor/relay control) with a web server for IP monitoring and control. EPIC FAILURE! The CPM board shuts down every day so monitoring the battery becomes impossible and GWL is useless for support since they are 1/2 way around the globe from U.S.A and the language barrier. I've ask for a refund, but we'll see. This one was the most expensive and I even purchased their extended warranty for 5 years - I feel like that was a waste and I can only get email support and that is asynchronous and often several days apart for responses. I have my own software I've mentioned in other threads on this forum that I use to monitor my Schneider equipment as well as whichever BMS I choose. I have the software integrated with Home Assistant. I can monitor and control my equipment using that application (which is very well polished) instead of writing my own or using multiple vendors software to accomplish the complete solution.
So this gets me to my questions regarding the Orion Jr2. How is support? Has anyone opened a case with them and how long was it before your first response as well as the time span to get a solution? I know this is going to be the most expensive solution (hence my last stop.) Does the vendor offer an extended warranty? Can anyone tell me, if I'm using my own software (I was planning on front-ending the Orion Jr2 with a Raspberry Pi using the serial interface) what accessories will I need? Last question, if you were buying today, would you still go with the Orion Jr2 or is there something you've found that might suit your needs better and why?
Thanks for your help and if you'd like any information on how my system is setup and how my software works, I have a YT channel (JC/DC in the AZ) that has some videos on this topic:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8_TU2g-Yl1oMCts3pkXCbQ
I'm also willing to help anyone who wants to try my setup. I have a Github repository where I publish my software along with instructions for it as well as some information about Home Assistant integration. If I go the Orion route, I'll be integrating that into the software as well.