FLEXeCHARGE charging stations

This guide will help installers set up the FLEXeCHARGE charging station, ensuring proper communication and integration with the DemoBrandName ControllerDemoName. This guide covers common configurations, but always refer to the official FLEXeCHARGE manuals available at [FLEXeCHARGE Help Desk] for the most accurate and up-to-date instructions [1][2].

Supported Devices

Device Type	Modbus TCP (Ethernet)	RS485
FLEXeCHARGE Controller with Metcom Meter	✅	❌

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Wiring

Ethernet

For a proper Ethernet connection:

1. Connect the FLEXeCHARGE controller to the local network via an Ethernet cable.
2. Ensure TCP port 502 is open between the FLEXeCHARGE controller and the DemoBrandName ControllerDemoName.
3. Follow the Ethernet wiring best practices.

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Configuration

Step 1: Configure the FLEXeCHARGE Gateway

1. Connect to the Gateway: Connect your laptop directly to the Gateway via Ethernet.
2. Access the Gateway Interface: Open a web browser and enter the Gateway's IP address. The default IP address is likely 192.168.0.10 [3], but verify this in the Gateway manual.
3. Log In: Log in to the Gateway interface. The default username and password are often admin [3], but verify this in the Gateway manual and change it immediately for security reasons.
4. Network Configuration:
   • Assign a fixed IP address to the Gateway [3]. This IP address should be within the same subnet as your local network and the DemoBrandName ControllerDemoName.
   • Configure the Subnet Mask and Gateway address to match your network settings.
   • Connect the Gateway to your local network router [3].
5. HARMON-E Registration: Ensure the Gateway is registered with your HARMON-E account. Follow the instructions in the FLEXeCHARGE manual for registering the Gateway [3]. You may need to contact FLEXeCHARGE support to link the power meter to your cloud site [3].

Step 2: Configure the FLEXeCHARGE Charging Station

1. Access the Charging Station Interface: Once the Gateway is configured and connected to the internet, you should be able to access the charging station's configuration interface through the Gateway. The exact method for accessing the charging station's interface will be detailed in the FLEXeCHARGE manual.
2. Enable Modbus TCP: Navigate to the communication settings and enable Modbus TCP.
3. Modbus TCP Settings:
   • Set the IP address of the charging station. This IP address should be different from the Gateway's IP address but within the same subnet.
   • Set the Modbus Unit ID (Modbus address). Choose a unique address between 1-247 that does not conflict with other Modbus devices on the network.
   • Ensure the port is set to 502.

Step 3: Configure the DemoBrandName ControllerDemoName

1. In the DemoBrandName ControllerDemoName interface, add a new Modbus TCP device.
2. Enter the IP address of the charging station (not the Gateway).
3. Enter the Modbus Unit ID you configured in Step 2.
4. Start the scan to confirm the connection.

Setup without FLEXeCHARGE Gateway (Direct Connection)

If you are not using a FLEXeCHARGE Gateway, you may be able to connect the charging station directly to your network.

1. Connect to the Charging Station: Connect your laptop to the charging station via Ethernet. You might need to set a static IP address on your laptop to be in the same subnet as the charging station's default IP address (check the manual).
2. Access the Charging Station Interface: Open a web browser and enter the charging station's IP address (check the manual for the default IP address).
3. Log In: Log in to the charging station interface (check the manual for the default username and password).
4. Configure Network Settings: Assign a static IP address, subnet mask, and gateway address to the charging station.
5. Enable Modbus TCP and set the Modbus Unit ID as described in "Step 2: Configure the FLEXeCHARGE Charging Station" above.
6. Configure the DemoBrandName ControllerDemoName as described in "Step 3: Configure the ControllerDemoName" above.