Function extensions for AC charging controllers: WLAN capability and other features

The Charx control modular AC charging controllers from Phoenix Contact are the centerpiece of an intelligent and sustainable charging infrastructure for mode 3 electric vehicle charging. Software release 1.7.0 gives the scalable portfolio an extended range of functions through WLAN capability and other features for increased installation and maintenance convenience as well as more security.

The new WLAN functionality of the AC charging controllers enables installers to establish a wireless connection to an existing access point. This means that all the existing interfaces of the Charx control modular, e.g., OCPP, Modbus, and OpenVPN can be used without additional cabling effort. In addition, the controller can create its own access point. This enables echnical personnel to quickly and easily commission and maintain charging stations with conventional tools such as laptops and smartphones without access to the customer network. The WLAN capability is implemented via a WLAN USB dongle, which is supported by software update 1.7.0. Further function extensions included as part of software release 1.7.0 include the support of OCPP-1.6j Websocket Secure connections. A secure connection to the backend is established via OCPP using the user name and password as well as TLS encryption. Function extensions for load management provide the customer with additional advantages: a current value can be specified for the entire load circuit of a charging park via Modbus/TCP. It is therefore no longer necessary to manually adjust the individual current values via charging controller or charging point, even when extending a charging park. The closure of security vulnerabilities through software release 1.7.0 has also increased the availability of the charging infrastructure. The AC charging controllers from Phoenix Contact cover all charging applications, from home chargers right through to the parking garages, and are ready for IoT applications, smart services, and sector coupling with the open Linux platform.