Introductory Guide:

Understanding LTE Connectivity for EV Charging: Ensuring Reliable Connections

As electric vehicles (EVs) become more prevalent, reliable connectivity is essential for effective charging infrastructure. In many ways LTE for EV chargers is the most critical connectivity method available. While it is ubiquitous in the broader Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem, today it is typically seen as on an even playing field with the less reliable (but more affordable) WiFi solutions. Understanding LTE’s complexities is crucial for those evaluating hardware and aiming to ensure robust and consistent connectivity for EV chargers.

The Multi-Faceted Role of LTE

LTE technology offers a plethora of applications beyond just serving as a secondary option for internet connectivity. It is designed to provide high-speed wireless communication, making it particularly valuable in IoT contexts where devices need to transmit data efficiently. This capability is critical for EV chargers, which require reliable connectivity to monitor performance, facilitate payments, and manage software updates.

Key Components of LTE Connectivity

When evaluating LTE for EV Chargers, three primary components must be considered:

  1. Supported Networks: The type of networks the SIM card supports can greatly influence connectivity options. Many users might choose a carrier based solely on marketing, only to discover later that the coverage at their location is inadequate. It’s vital to ensure that the chosen SIM supports a range of networks (3G, LTE, or 5G) to maximize reliability.
  2. Modem Category: The ‘category’ of the LTE modem significantly affects data delivery. Most IoT devices utilize Category-M (CATM) modems due to their energy efficiency, which is ideal for battery-powered devices. However, CATM modems come with limited data rates and can struggle during network congestion, often being deprioritized by carriers. For EV chargers, which require more consistent data transmission, opting for at least a Category 1 (Cat 1) modem or better is advisable. This choice not only enhances performance but also ensures reliable backup functionality if WiFi fails.
  3. Frequency Overlap: The compatibility between the supported frequencies of the modem, antenna, and the local LTE network is crucial for optimal performance. If these components do not align, it can lead to poor signal quality and inconsistent connectivity, negating the benefits of having LTE as a backup option.

Traffic Management Challenges

A significant challenge with CATM modems is their susceptibility to traffic shaping by cellular carriers. During peak usage times, CATM modems may be the first to be dropped from the network, leading to service disruptions. Given that the power consumption of EV charging systems is generally negligible compared to the power they deliver, the implications of a dropped connection can be significant. This reinforces the recommendation to choose EV chargers equipped with higher-grade modems to ensure consistent and reliable performance.

Fractal Chargers: A Solution for Connectivity

To mitigate the risks associated with LTE for EV Chargers, Fractal Chargers have implemented a comprehensive solution: upon power-up, they perform a complete LTE network scan. This feature allows users to identify exactly which networks are available at their site, providing valuable insight into the connectivity landscape and helping to select the most reliable carrier for their needs.

Navigating Carrier Compatibility

When deploying EV chargers across North America, it’s essential to recognize that there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to carriers. Each region may have varying levels of service quality and availability, making it imperative to choose carriers that offer flexibility and compatibility with multiple networks. This approach ensures that EV chargers remain connected, regardless of location.

SIM Card Insertion and Deployment Considerations

The method of inserting SIM cards into EV chargers is another factor that can impact the overall deployment process. Simple and intuitive SIM card insertion mechanisms can save time and reduce errors during installation, further enhancing operational efficiency. The Fractal solution helps this by reducing the mechanical complexity by already having an e-sim soldered to the board – it is shocking the number of times an install is derailed by having a SIM inserted incorrectly.

The Importance of Connectivity Diligence

Overall, LTE plays an unusual role in the connectivity landscape. Some defer to it as a primary option for its reliability others see it as a necessity when WiFi doesn’t conveniently reach a location. In any case, it is important to deploy these technologies thoughtfully. It is extremely common for a connectivity decision to be made and rolled out without much thought or planning. Pausing to consider the nuances of a connectivity strategy can be the deference between a reliable charging site and one with persistent problems.

Commercial L2 Charging You Can Count On

FractalEV manufactures affordable 48A and 80A EV chargers with smart features built-in. The best 48A EV charger will depend on your use case, but we’re convinced ours is ideal for multi-family residences. Meanwhile our 80 amp EV charger is well-suited to fleet and commercial applications.

☑ OCPP Network agnostic
☑ Get critical data at no cost
☑ Fee-free cloud solution
☑ Local power management
☑ Onboard mesh networking
☑ Compatible with EV charger RFID