Table of Contents
1. General Information
Etrel INCH DUO charging station has been designed and tested in accordance with current and past versions of international standards. The charging station is compliant with IEC 61851 (Part 1, Part 21-2, Part 22) international standards which defines conductive AC electric vehicle charging and supports Mode 3 charging for safe recharging of standard electric vehicles.
The charging station for electric vehicles is a part of the integrated charging system that has been designed and developed by Etrel. Charging station can operate on its own, it can be connected into the cluster of charging stations and it can be connected to the management system.
Figure 1: Etrel INCH DUO charging station
The management system enables safe and simple EV charging for the user and gives a comprehensive oversight and control of the charging for the operator, including the data for billing of the consumed energy and service.
The manual contains the latest information at the time of purchase. Any unauthorized modification or tampering with the product may void the product warranty. Etrel d.o.o. reserves the right to make changes to the product without further notice. Customer support department will assist with any further inquiries about the product.
Notes to the installer:
Carefully read the installation instructions before installing the station. Follow all the instructions and recommendations.
After the installation is completed, make sure to leave these instructions with the customer.
Notes to the customer:
Use the charging station only in accordance with instructions for use. Carefully read these instructions and make sure to keep them for further reference. Ensure that the charging station is installed by a licensed electrician.
Preparation of charging station installation site and installation are described in separate documents. In this document it is predisposed that charging station is installed properly and already working.
Intended Use
Etrel INCH DUO charging station is intended only for charging of electric vehicles and should not be used to charge other appliances or for any other purpose.
No flammable materials or liquids should be used or stored in the direct vicinity of the charging station.
The manufacturer accepts no responsibility for damage or injuries resulting from incorrect installation or inappropriate use of the product.
Preparation of charging station installation site and installation are described in separate documents. In this document it is predisposed that charging station is installed properly and working.
Different types of charging connectors and converters are available as a part of optional equipment to allow safe charging of any standard electric vehicle.
Safety Information
Operation
The device must be used in accordance with the instructions contained in this manual.
Do not operate charging station if there is visible damage to the unit or charging cable. Call manufacturers or reseller’s support department for advice how to proceed.
Do not put fingers into the charging connector.
Do not operate the charging station with wet hands.
The charging station manufacturer cannot be made liable for damage or injury caused by improper handling, installation, or use of the product.
Any usage of the product not covered in this document is not allowed and could cause injury or even death.
When the charging station without integral RCD device is installed, the proper RCD device should be installed in the main electrical cabinet.
When the charging station without integral overcurrent device is installed, the proper overcurrent device should be installed in the main electrical cabinet.
Irregularity or Interference at Operation
In the event of irregularities or interference in the operation of the device, immediately stop using the charging station and inform the charging station operator of the situation by phone number located on the housing or other place.
Maintenance
Charging station can be maintained and repaired by qualified personnel only.
Charging station’s power supply should always be switched off during the maintenance and repair.
Avoid hazardous risks. Only the manufacturer, an authorized service technician, or technically qualified personnel may replace damaged charging station or its components.
Fire Safety Measures
At the location of car charging, the fire hazards and thus the threats are increased during the process of charging. The overall design of our products is made on the basis assumption that the fault could occur on any element of the system. Either in the electrical wiring of power supply, in wiring or inside of the charging station, or in the car.
The enclosure and the assembly design of the charging station are made in such a way that the contact of the user to hazardous parts is not possible. In the event of fire, metal enclosure would constrain a fire and would not allow the propagation outside of the enclosure. Regarding the fire safety in all possible cases of installation, that are out of control of our company, several recommendations are listed:
The charger must be installed outside the hazardous area.
The installation of the charging station can be performed only by professional electrician and must comply with the installation manual and local installation rules.
Ensure that there is enough space to manoeuvre vehicles into their designated charging areas and that in event of fire the escape and rescue routes are not obstructed.
No flammable or combustible material should be stored within the charging area.
Provision of suitable portable fire extinguisher at the location of the charging station is proposed.
Firefighting Measures
CHARGING STATION FIRE
In the event of a charging fire, the usual rules in the event of an electrical cabinet fire apply. In case of fire please follow these steps:
In the event of a fire, immediately stop using the charging station and call the appropriate services (fire brigade).
If possible, disconnect the station from the power supply by pressing the fire protection switch (if present) or another switch responsible for cutting off the power supply to the station.
Retreat from fire area.
Extinguishing should be carried out with extinguishers intended for extinguishing electrical devices up to 1000 V.
Do not extinguish live electrical installations and devices with water!
The following is general information obtained from various sources. For detailed instructions on extinguishing fires of electric vehicles or their batteries, fire brigade have appropriate procedures already established.
Vehicle Fire
Vehicles, made of light metal, such as magnesium or aluminium, develop high temperatures above 1000 °C when burning. When extinguished with water such a high temperature evaporates it and can cause burning particles of distinctly white colour and high temperatures to fly around the vehicle. Extinguishing such vehicles requires great care in forming the water jet and in the amount of water.
If a burning vehicle is connected to a charging station, it is necessary to ensure that the charging station is in a voltage-free state by disconnecting the line from which it is supplied.
If firefighters are at the scene of a fire in less than half an hour, the battery usually does not ignite yet and the vehicle can be extinguished easier, and all extinguishing agents can be used. The general recommendations are mainly to use water and foam.
Battery Fire
In general, battery manufacturers, regardless of the type of battery, recommend water for successful extinguishing, although reactions may occur.
If the batteries catch fire, they will burn until they burn out completely. Another option is to immerse the batteries in water for at least half an hour. If the battery is not extinguished successfully, the fire will recur.
Environmental Safety Measures
When implementing protection measures, environmental protection must also be observed. For this reason, special care has been put into selection of the components and their compliance with the Directive on the restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (RoHS). This directive restricts use of hazardous materials in the manufacture of various types of electronic and electrical equipment.
The substances banned under RoHS are heavy metals, lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), cadmium (Cd), hexavalent chromium (CrVI), polybrominated biphenyls (PBB), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE), and four different phthalates (DEHP, BBP, DBP, DIBP).
The restricted materials are hazardous to the environment and pollute landfills and are dangerous in terms of occupational exposure during manufacturing and recycling.
Another example of use of environmentally friendly materials in our products is compliance to REACH, which is a regulation of the European Union, adopted to improve the protection of human health and the environment from the risks that can be posed by chemicals. REACH regulation also promotes alternative methods for the hazard assessment of substances to reduce the number of tests on animals. Packaging of our products is environmentally friendly and materials degradable.
Correct Disposal of this Product
Information about WEEE Directive
Of major importance is the compliancy with the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE) as well. The scope of this Directive is the reuse, recycling, and disposal of electrical equipment during complete lifecycle and after their end of life.
The product and its electronic accessories should not be disposed of with other household waste at the end of their working life. To prevent possible harm to the environment or human health from uncontrolled waste disposal, please separate these items from other types of waste and recycle them responsibly to promote the sustainable reuse of material resources.
Household users should contact either the retailer where they purchased this product, or their local government office, for details of where and how they can take these items for environmentally safe recycling.
Business users should contact their supplier and check the terms and conditions of the purchase contract. This product and its electronic accessories should not be mixed with other commercial wastes for disposal.
Compliancy
Simplified EU Declaration of Conformity
Hereby, Etrel d.o.o. declares that the radio equipment type INCH DUO is in compliance with Radio Equipment Directive 2014/53/EU. The full text of the EU Declaration of Conformity is available at the following internet address:
https://etrel.com/charging-solutions/inch-duo/
Select "Access documentation" and then "Certificates".
Tested Compliancy with Standards
Etrel INCH DUO charging station was tested at accredited third-party laboratory SIQ - Slovenian Institute of Quality and Metrology. Performed tests cover all the requirements of RED, LVD and EMC directives of the European Union, according to the specifications of the following standards:
IEC 61851-1:2017 (EN IEC 61851-1:2019)
IEC 61851-21-2:2018
ETSI EN 301 489-1 V2.2.3
ETSI EN 301 489-17 V2.2.1
ETSI EN 301 489-52 V1.1.0
ETSI EN 301 489-3 V2.1.1
EN 60529:1991 + A1:2000 + A2:2013
EN 62262:2002
Safety Risk Analysis
All our charging stations are tested and proved compliant with EN 61851 Part 1, Part 21-2, and requirements of harmonized standards to fulfil RED, LVD and EMC directive. These tests and judgement of compliancy was performed by external accredited organization, SIQ - Slovenian Institute of Quality and Metrology, Mašera - Spasićeva ulica 10, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia, www.siq.si.
Design Considerations
Special care has been put into selection of components and materials and their compliance to requirements set in standards, technical directives, and rules of good practice.
The internal wiring was carefully designed, and the propriety of whole assembly thoroughly evaluated. Basic design considerations include voltage, insulating materials, time under voltage stress and degree of pollution at the location.
Creepage distances, clearance between circuits and spacing to metal enclosures are important requirements for insulation coordination. Thus, calculation and measurement of clearance and creepage distances, in accordance with requirements, are one of the significant parts in design of our products. They are dimensioned to withstand the required impulse withstand voltage and to withstand the long-term continuous operation.
A charging station operates with an RCD device, which is designed to protect against the risks of electrocution and in addition offers protection against fire caused by earth faults. It is a sensitive safety device that switches off electricity automatically if there is a fault.
The ingress protection class of IP54 proves, that the enclosure of the charging station is protecting the internals against ingress of solid objects, permits only limited ingress of dust and is protected against water splashes from all directions. Impact protection, of at least IK08 states, that the charging station can withstand impacts, equivalent to 1.7 kg dropped from height of 30 cm. As required, tests for the IK class were performed before testing of IP class.
Licenses
At the same location as the complete EU Declaration of Conformity, in the folder "Licenses", manifest file with information about versions and licenses of integrated software can be found.
https://etrel.com/charging-solutions/inch-duo/
Select "Access documentation" and then "Licenses".
Transportation and Storage instructions
TRANSPORTATION
Please make sure that the charging station (or pallet of charging stations) is stable during the transport.
Transportation temperature range: -30 °C to +70 °C
STORAGE
The charging station is delivered in a cardboard box. We recommend that the charging station is kept in this packaging until the installation. Packaging must be removed before installation of the charging station.
Storage temperature range: -30 °C to +70 °C
STACKING
INCH Duo:
No stacking, symbol:
Packaging
Figure 2: Label on the packaging
2. Product description
Basic Functionalities
Etrel INCH DUO is a smart charging station that can predict EV charging habits and help charge the car by the time it is needed, at the lowest possible cost.
Charging station comes with the LCD screen that guides through the charging process and provides charging information. Charging station comes with several connectivity options (including Wi-Fi, LTE, and ethernet) and open protocol support and can be seamlessly integrated in smart home.
LTE antenna
Socket 1
Socket 2
Door handle
LCD Display
Figure 3: Etrel INCH DUO
Base Specifications
Input: 2x230/400V~; 3W+N+PE; 50/60 Hz; 32 Amax
Output: 2x230/400V~; 3W+N+PE; 50/60 Hz; 32 Amax
Maximum charging power: two charging spots with 7,36 kW (single-phase) or 22,08 kW (three-phase).
Device power consumption:
From 5 W, depending on the actual configuration.
Specification of frequency bands and transmitting power (it is possible that not all modules are part of an actual device).
LTE module Frequency bands: LTE-FDD: B1 (2100 MHz), B3 (1800 MHz), B5 (850 MHz), B7 (2600 MHz), B8 (900 MHz), B20 (800 MHz) LTE-TDD: B38 (2600 MHz), B40 (2300 MHz), B41 (2500 MHz) WCDMA: B1 (2100 MHz), B5 (850 MHz), B8 (900 MHz) GSM/EDGE: B3 (1800 MHz), B8 (900 MHz) Transmitting power: 33dBm±2dB for GSM 24dBm+1/-3dB for WCDMA 23dBm±2dB for LTE-FDD 23dBm±2dB for LTE-TDD | LTE Router Frequency bands: 4G (LTE-FDD): B1 (2100 MHz), B3 (1800 MHz), B5 (850 MHz), B7 (2600 MHz), B8 (900 MHz), B20 (800 MHz) 4G (LTE-TDD): B38 (2600 MHz), B40 (2300 MHz), B41 (2500 MHz) 3G: B1 (2100 MHz), B5 (850 MHz), B8 (900 MHz) 2G: B3 (1800 MHz), B8 (900 MHz) Transmitting power: 21.9 dB |
RFID module Frequency band: 13.56 MHz (HF) Transmitting power: up to 8 dBm | |
Dimensions
Figure 4: Dimensions of INCH DUO charging station
Figure 5: Dimensions of INCH DUO power supply compartment
Optional and Extra Equipment
The table below shows the optional and extra equipment that can be added to the charging station:
Optional / Extra equipment | Use/Description |
GPRS router with network switch | GPRS router can be used for communication for several chargers on the same location (required for control centre connection when local connection via ethernet is not possible). Network switch can be used to connect several stations on the same location with one router. |
Safety arches (Protection railing) | Protects the station from vehicle collisions. |
Underground anchoring structure | For safe installation of charging station and safety arches. |
Different graphical user interface languages | Based on user identification, the station can automatically adjust the language of the user interface. |
Visual customisation of the station | Custom labels with client’s design, logotypes, or promotions. |
Connection of two sets of supply wires | Special connection terminals can be used to connect several stations in a row. |
Etrel Load Guard | Enables management of charging current based on settings in the control centre for management of charging infrastructure. |
Etrel Ocean | Control centre for management of charging infrastructure. |
Figure 6: Underground anchoring element
Etrel Load Guard
Etrel Load guard is a separate device that is installed in the building’s electric cabinet. It measures the electric current in the building’s installation and sends real-time measurements to the charging station.
Load Guard allows charging with maximum current without overloading the fuses. The main use is in cases where there are other consumers or production of energy at the location (e.g., photovoltaics). It operates with individual charging station or with cluster of charging stations.
Power management of master charging station decides, based on information provided by Load Guard, what target current to set on its connector and other stations of the cluster. If necessary, it will increase or decrease the charging power or even stop it completely to prevent the fuses from switching off due to overcharging.
Figure 7: Load Guard
Etrel Ocean
Etrel Ocean is a complete software solution for scalable electric vehicle charging management that supports complete overview and control of charging stations while covering numerous use cases.
Usually, it is not needed for home use, its advantages are in the field of management of (real and virtual) clusters of charging stations. It is adaptable and configurable to different business cases.
Figure 8: Etrel Ocean
Identify Product Variant
Etrel INCH DUO has multiple variants that differ based on socket type and connectivity option. To identify charging station, there are two possibilities. Either checking the manufacturer sticker or on the Web interface in Diagnostics menu.
Model number is located on all stickers. Identification of charging station is sometimes needed by the support, so they can identify potential issue.
User will get all the needed information on the sticker located inside of the charging station. Information about charging station model, serial number, software version and version of cc hardware, cc driver and cc firmware can also be obtained, on the web interface of charging station.
Charging station or its packaging has three stickers, presented on the following figure.
Figure 9: Three different stickers of the charging station
Circuit Diagram
3. Operation and charging procedure
INCH DUO charging station can be controlled locally or remotely, through web interface, or through charging station management system. Configuration and usage of the charging station’s web interface is described in the next chapter.
First Power up
Before starting the station, it is absolutely necessary to read this manual and the technical specification of the device.
Connect charging station to the power supply in the electrical cabinet. Installation feeder should be turned on.
Charging station has overcurrent and RCD protection installed, check whether the protection elements are in ON position.
Charging station is powered up automatically when it is connected to the electricity.
When the charging station is power up for the first time it can take several minutes for station to get ready to start using it to charge EV.
Status of LED
LED colour | State | LED action | Sub-state |
Green | - Booting - OK - Available | Steady green | Booting |
Steady green | Connector available | ||
Blink green slow | Preparing for charging | ||
Blink green fast | Waiting for vehicle | ||
Blue | - Charging | Blink blue | Charging |
Steady blue | Charging ended | ||
Steady blue | Charging paused (by EV or by EVSE) | ||
Red | - Fault - Unavailable | Blink red | Fault |
Steady red | Connector unavailable |
Setting of Maximal Charging Current
Max power is set by the installer based on the grid capabilities where charging station is installed. If there is need to change it, please set the current limitation in the charging station’s web interface before starting the first charging session.
First Charging Session
When the charging station is ready to be used, follow the procedures described on the LCD screen. Two charging modes can be selected:
Fast charging (default)
Interactive charging
Charging modes are chosen during the charging session.
During the fast-charging EV will be charged with the max available charging power as fast as possible. Max power is set by the installer based on the grid capabilities where charging station is installed.
When Interactive charging is chosen the charging schedule will be modified based on the inserted departure time. If it is not inserted, it will be based on the default value. Historic data are recorded from the first charging session onward and can only be used after the first charging session is finished.
More charging session means more accurate session prognosis and schedules. Charging schedule will be created based on electricity prices, other loads, and PV production to make sure EV is charged in appropriate time while taking in consideration other constraints.
Charging Procedure
Step 1: WAKE
In normal conditions, the charging station’s LCD screen will likely be in the screen saver mode. Charging station can be woken up by simply tapping the screen.
Screen saver mode can be chosen in the charging station’s web interface. Three options of display setting exist: turned on all the time, blinking or turned off until touched.
Figure 10: Screen saver
Step 2: AUTHORISATION
Depending on the charging station authentication mode chosen different screens will be shown that will need different actions from user to continue with the charging session. What authorization is allowed can be setup in the charging station’s web interface Configuration menu.
Plug and charge mode
In the plug and charge mode message is shown to insert the cable and start the charging session.
Needed authentication
If authentication is needed, select the type of authentication that will be used to authorize and continue with the charging session.
Figure 11: Choose authorisation method, first screen
Figure 12: Choose authorisation method, second screen
Insert PIN code
Figure 13: Insert PIN code
Use mobile app to authenticate
Figure 14: Insert charging station's EVSE code
Either type the code of the station to the mobile app or scan QR code with mobile.
Swipe RFID card
By simply swiping the RFID card below the LCD touch screen where the RFID module is installed, the authorization on the charging station is made and the charging session can begin.
Figure 15: Swipe RFID card
Step 3: CONNECTING THE CABLE
After the successful authorization, the screen with the description to connect the cable is shown.
Figure 16: Connect the cable to charging station
If the cable is connected before the authorization this screen will be left out and after the authorization next screen “Waiting for vehicle to respond” will be shown. When the cable is connected charging station will start charging as soon as EV responds.
Figure 17: Charging station is waiting for EV to responds and starts charging
Figure 18: Notification of charging start
Figure 19: Display of information during charging
Step 4: DEPARTURE TIME INPUT
As soon as the charging session begins, the screen to input departure time is shown. Presented departure time is the one calculated by the charging station based on previous charging habits. The presented departure time can be changed to make sure that the EV is charged.
When the departure time is set, or default setting is let through charging data will be shown.
What charging information is shown depends on the settings of Web interface.
Check Status of the Charging Station
In the web interface the information of the current session can be seen. The departure time can be changed using web interface by pressing the »Interactive mode« button.
Information is also presented on the LCD display of the charging station.
Figure 20: Examples of shown status on the LCD screen
Figure 21: Example of shown consumed energy on the LCD screen
Figure 22: Example of shown consumed energy on the LCD screen
Stop the Charging Session
Charging station can be stopped locally or remotely.
Locally
The charging session can be ended by using the same authorization method as for starting the session (using an RFID card, mobile application, PIN code) and removing the plug from the charging socket or, in the case of a station configuration without authorization, by simply removing the plug from the charging socket.
Remotely
Stop of charging session can be done remotely with the use of Web interface.
Paying Procedure in Case of Cluster of Charging Stations
It is possible to implement several INCH DUO charging stations into the same cluster and having the paying terminal installed only on one of them. In this case, the LCD display will lead the customer, on which charging station it is possible to pay for the charging.
Figure 23: Paying procedure in case of clusters, notification at charging station where charging was made
Figure 24: Paying procedure in case of clusters, input of designation of charging station where charging was performed at another charging station with paying terminal
4. Charging station Web interface
Charging station’s web interface allows the connection to the charging station platform, configuration of its settings as well as check of the charging session and station data, check of the connectivity status and errors description when they occur.
Connect to Web Interface
Users can connect to the charging station web interface using the charging station IP address. Default IP address can be found on the information sticker on the inner part of the maintenance doors. IP address of the charging station can be manually changed.
When IP was changed and forgotten, it can be obtained with pressing for several seconds on the “three dots” on the display. IP can also be obtained with pressing the reset key for several seconds.
When IP address is written in the internet browser and the computer is in the same local network, the charging station will be connected to the web interface.
Figure 25: Insert the default IP into the browser to connect to web interface
Ping Charging Station from Computer in Same Network
Windows
To determine if the computer is in the same network as charging station ping the station using the CMD command ping with the IP of the station. Computer network can be changed in the network settings.
To ping the station, connect to Command Prompt by searching for it in windows search functionality.
Figure 26: Search for CMD using Windows Search
Figure 27: Open Command Prompt
In the Command Prompt write “ping” and IP address (e.g., ping 192.168.1.190).
Figure 28: Ping the charging station IP address
If the ping is not successful, the computer might be in different network segment. In this case it, the segment need to be changed in network settings to the one of the charging stations.
Apple computer
When using apple computers, pinging of the station can be performed using Terminal. It can be accessed by going to the “Applications” and selecting “Utilities”. Search for “Terminal” and run it.
Figure 29: Run Terminal software
When Terminal is running, write ping and IP (e.g., ping 192.168.1.250).
Figure 30: Ping charging station by writing ping and charging station's IP
Change the Computer Network Settings
If pinging of the charging station is not working, also the connection to the charging station's web interface will not work. To configure the charging station, the network settings will need to be changed. Either configure new IP for the selected interface (Advanced, Add), or change the computer's IP.
Windows
To change the network of the computer in Windows OS, network settings in the Control panel need to be located. First, open the Control panel with click on the icon or searching in the Start menu.
Figure 31: Search for Control Panel using Windows Search
First select “Network and Internet” and then “Network Connections”. Depending on the version of the Windows operation system, instead of “Network Connection”, the option “Network and Sharing Centre” could also be the right one.
Click on the ethernet connection that is being used.
In the Internet protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4), “Properties” need to be selected and this will show a new window where the new IP address of the computer that is in the same network segment as the station’s IP can be written.
Figure 32: Locate Internet Protocol Version 4(TCP/IPv4) in network properties
If the station default IP is 192.168.1.250 the computer IP address should be changed to 192.168.1.1.
Last bolded number can be a random number as long as it is different than 250 (used by station) and is not used by any other appliance in the network. In many cases, the number 1 is already taken by the router and other numbers can be used by other computers. The IP address that we set to the computer must be unique for that network.
Set subnet mask to 255.255.255.0. and the pinging should work.
Figure 33: Change the IP of the computer and subnet mask
Apple computer
To change the IP settings of Apple computer, the »Apple« button need to be pressed to access the »System preferences«
Figure 34: Locate System Preferences
Click the Network icon.
Figure 35: Click Network icon
Click on the Wi-Fi or ethernet connection (Depends on which one is used) and press Advanced button in the bottom right.
Figure 36: Go to advanced settings of internet connection
Choose TCP/IP. In the Configure IPv4 option choose Manual and change IPv4 Address to 192.168.1.1. Last bolded number can be a random number as long as it is different than 250 (used by station) and is not used by any other appliance in the network. Set subnet mask to 255.255.255.0. and the pinging should work.
Figure 37: Set network settings
Using DHCP for Connection
When DHCP is used router automatically assigns IP address to the charging station connected to it. To acquire DHCP address the charging station reset button need to be pressed for 4 s until the first beep sound is heard. Address will be displayed on the LCD screen.
Using Web Interface
In the web interface each type of user has different rights what he can see and edit in the web interface. Operators will have the highest rights to set up all the configuration and connectivity settings. A regular home user only has basic rights that will allow him to see Dashboard and Diagnostics module.
Main Dashboard
Main dashboard window allows to see current power, cluster power if the charging station is part of the cluster, building power load, charging station availability and information about the last session.
Figure 38: Web interface main Dashboard view
Last session status will be shown on the screen right. If anything went wrong during the session, additional information can be acquired in the Diagnostics menu.
Figure 39: Current session information displayed in the web interface
On the picture above, the button “Stop session” is shown. When pressing this button new window will pop up to confirm the action. After that the session will stop.
Figure 40: Confirmation window to stop the charging session using web interface
Diagnostics
When experiencing problems, the logs can be downloaded from “Diagnostic” menu and then sent to the operator to check what is wrong with charging station. Basic information about the charging station are also in the Diagnostics menu.
Basic information:
Model,
Serial number,
Hardware version,
Software version,
Connector controller hardware version,
Connector controller driver version and
Connector controller firmware version.
“Diagnostic” module can also be used to upgrade firmware, restore data and backup charging session data, and reset charging station remotely.
Backup configuration gives operator option to restore charging station to the same configuration if something malfunctions with the system and charging station needs to be restored to default settings.
Figure 41: Diagnostics web interface module
Change the Web Interface Language
The language of web interface can be changed by pressing the burger menu and selecting the language at the bottom left corner. Only languages supported by web interface are available.
Figure 42: Menu with the language choices
More information about the web interface can be found in the INCH DUO Configuration guide.
5. Regular Maintenance
It is recommended to perform a visual check and test of the protection elements at least once per year if local regulations do not state otherwise. It is possible that the requirement is to check more often, e.g., every three months, or every month. The check should also be documented.
No other specific services are needed apart from recommended regular maintenance protocol which takes approximately from 60 to 90 minutes onsite, per one charging station.
Tools
Before maintenance or troubleshoot the charging station, check the appropriate tools to properly maintain charging station:
Sharp knife,
hand screwdriver PH1,
hand screwdriver PH2,
hand screwdriver hexagon 2.5 mm,
tweezers,
unlock keys.
Figure 43: Equipment used for the installation of charging station
General Inspection of the Station
The charging infrastructure operator should perform regular inspections of the charging stations (preventive maintenance). Public charging stations are often exposed to harsh climate conditions and mechanical damage. Critical damage of the casing or other components of the charging station can affect user safety.
The duty of the maintenance service is to:
Examine every socket for potential damage. Access to the sockets must always be enabled and any foreign objects that might be lodged in must be removed as soon as possible.
Examine the casing of the charging station for potential damage. The internal components of the charging station can be examined by unlocking and opening the service doors of the station. The maintenance staff should look for mechanical damage of individual components and examine the interior for potential presence of water or moisture. The equipment installed in the upper part of the station (LCD, RFID) is the most delicate and should be examined thoroughly.
Examine the functioning of ground protection of each socket, by using the »test« button on the protection.
Examine the operation of the charging station following the specified sequence:
Plug the cable into socket 1.
Perform identification to start the charging (RFID, SMS, or via App).
To conduct an optimal test, some energy consumption should be induced. Amount of energy consumed is shown on the LCD display.
Log off with the RFID card.
Charging should stop.
Repeat the procedure for socket 2.
For testing purposes, the maintenance staff should use a test cable with an IEC 62196-2 Type 2 plug, where a connection with an IEC 61851 standard vehicle can be simulated.
The service doors of the station can be opened by lifting unlocked doors and slightly opening them at the same time, then slightly lifting them once more and opening them completely. The handle next to the lock should be used to lift the doors.
Check the Protection Elements
Protection elements can be part of charging station or they can be installed in the upstream installation. They should be regularly checked no matter the location.
Overcurrent Protection
Check the overcurrent protection once a year for any visible damages on the surface. If the overcurrent protection is tripped and the switches cannot return to the active position something is wrong with the protection and needs to be changed by maintenance crew.
Surge and Overvoltage Protection
Check the surge and overvoltage protection (if installed) once a year for any visible damages on the surface. If the surge and overvoltage protection is tripped it needs to be changed by the maintenance crew.
RCD
The regulations require that residual current protective device (RCD) is tested regularly, and an audit log should also be kept. The test button on the RCD unit allows user to verify the correct operation of the device by passing a small current through the RCD unit. This simulates a fault by creating an imbalance in the sense coil. If the RCD does not trip when this button is pressed, then the device must be replaced by licensed electrician.
The device must be changed also when the RCD was tripped but the switch cannot be moved back into active position.
Figure 44: RCD test buttons
Recommended Regular Maintenance Protocol
Recommended service interval is once per year, starting one year after the installation of the station. The service protocol is performed as specified in the following checklist.
Checklist
1 | Measuring the voltage on all phases and between neutral and earth wires. |
2 | Measuring resistance between grounding and housing / door of the station. |
3 | Test of RCD protection 1 with the test button (in case of failure, change of RCD is required or removal of charging station from operation). |
4 | Test of RCD protection 2 with the test button (in case of failure, change of RCD is required or removal of charging station from operation). |
5 | Performance check: switch off all the main fuses and reboot of charging station. |
6 | Check-up of pins in socket 1 (no corrosion should be visible). |
7 | Check-up of pins in socket 2 (no corrosion should be visible). |
8 | Checking the socket 1 (socket should be free of dirt and foreign objects). |
9 | Checking the socket 2 (socket should be free of dirt and foreign objects). |
10 | Login with RFID card (if RFID authorization is enabled and online check is made). |
11 | Login with SMS (if SMS authorization is enabled and online check is made). |
12 | Login with mobile- app (if APP authorization is enabled and online check is made). |
13 | Start charging on socket 1 with a load (with EV or tester + load). |
14 | Display of power consumption on LCD display of the charging station for socket 1 (for this step approx. 5 minutes is needed). |
15 | Stop charging at socket 1. |
16 | Logout and re-login. |
17 | Start charging on socket 2 with a load (with EV or tester + load). |
18 | Display of power consumption on the screen for socket 2 (for this step approx. 5 minutes is needed). |
19 | Stop charging at socket 2. |
20 | Check-up of the mechanical condition of the housing and optional labels. |
21 | Check-up of the condition of LCD display (mechanical or other defects). |
22 | Verifying that the latest version of SW is loaded on the charger |
23 | Optional update if it is part of the product offer. (It can be implemented by Etrel locally or it can be done remotely from client’s back end). |
6. Troubleshooting
In the table below, all possible events that can occur at the power up of the station are listed with the procedure what to do in case something is wrong.
STATUS LIGHT | NORMAL OPERATION | PROBLEM | SOLUTION |
Fast blinking green light | Charging station’s backup batteries are charging. At the first power up it can take up to 10 min. If backup battery is full, green light will blink slowly. | If the light is blinking fast more than 10 min there might be a problem with the backup battery. | Inform the support about the status of the charging station. |
Slowly blinking green light | LCD screen is preparing to turn on. Heating system is trying to heat the LCD before it is turned ON. | If the green light is blinking slowly for more than 10 minutes and the LCD has not been turned on, there might be a problem with the LCD. | Support should be called. |
Steady glowing green light | Charging station is ready to be used. | / | / |
No lights | / | If charging station is not responding after it is powered up, something might be wrong with power connection. | Check the protection elements if either RCD or overcurrent protection has been tripped. Activate the protection. If nothing helps call the support or installer. |
Green light is blinking | LCD is turned on and charging station is ready to be used. When the LCD starts the logo will be first displayed and after that the charging station can be used. | LCD is turned on but freezes and is unresponsive. | Try resetting the charging station. If the problem repeats there might be a problem with the software. Support should be called. |
Errors dangerous to device users:
Dangerous voltage present on enclosure or device under fire. In this case the device should be turned off immediately. Switch off device power supply of device in the distribution board from where device is supplied and not on device itself. Do not touch device.
If vehicle is connected at that moment, disconnect plug from the vehicle and not from the charging station, but only after the power supply was switched off. In the case of fire use fire extinguisher appropriate for electrical fire.
Faults occurred because of external conditions:
Undervoltage, overvoltage, short and long power supply outages, or wrong vehicle behaviour. In these cases, no action is needed to re-establish normal operating conditions.
Once fault is gone, normal operation conditions will be established automatically. If temporary fault was caused by vehicle, user will have to reinitiate charging session.
Device hardware failure preventing normal operation:
Example: Broken socket, broken LCD, electronics failure. If after restart device does not start normally, contact supplier support.
Charging station software failure:
Check that latest version of firmware is running on the charging station. If the latest version is installed and problem persist, then check if problem is caused by the charged vehicle. To check this, the charging could be tried on another charging station. If problem is not in the vehicle send diagnostic logs to the supplier.
The web interface of the charging station can also be used for troubleshooting.
The most common problems with solutions are presented in the following table. Please keep in mind these are only brief information to offer first support. For additional information check other Etrel documents, especially Service manual.
PROBLEM | SOLUTION |
LCD screen on the station is inactive. | Check the power supply. Check the state of safety elements, especially the main controller protection. Check the output voltage of the 12V DC power supply unit. |
The station has collapsed or is damaged and easily exposed to water. | Cut the power supply immediately. The station must be dismantled, and power supply cables secured. The station can then be replaced. |
The user completed the identification and plugged the cable into the IEC 62196-2 Type 2 socket, yet the station does not register that the cable has been plugged in. | The user should first check if the cable is plugged in properly. The next step is to determine with the help of the maintenance staff whether the user's vehicle supports the IEC 61851 standard on which the station's operation is based. |
The user tries to perform the identification, but the LCD display shows only »Unknown user«. | The smart card that was used for identification is not part of the system or the user is not a registered user. |
The user is unable to perform the identification with a verified smart card. | The user should hold the smart card against the RFID card reader and wait for a few seconds for the beep. |
The user tries to perform the identification which takes much longer than usual and results in a »Error occurred while logging in« message. | Check if the Control centre is operating normally and if the communication between the charging station and the Control centre is functioning properly. |
The charging stations fails to send the cyclic message to the Control centre (it failed to do so for over two hours). | The maintenance staff should examine the functioning of the station (e.g., LCD screen is active). If the station is functioning, the cause of the problem is probably in the communication connection. If the station is not functioning (e.g., LCD screen is inactive), the station might be without power or some protection equipment has been activated. |
Reseting the Charging Station
Charging station can be reset by opening the doors and resetting the main circuit breaker (80 A) at the bottom.
Disconnect the main circuit breaker, wait for couple of seconds and turn it back on.
Figure 45: Main circuit breaker can be used to reset the charging station
The reset of the charging station can be made from the web interface as well.
7. Contact Information
Technical support department
e-mail: support@etrel.com
phone: +386 1 601 0127
Customer support department
e-mail: sales@etrel.com
phone: +386 1 601 0175
Authorised service centres
e-mail: support@etrel.com
phone: +386 1 601 0075
Etrel d.o.o.
Pod jelšami 6
1290 Grosuplje
Slovenia
EU
www.etrel.si