Charging infrastructure requires stable networking

The mobility revolution places stringent requirements on infrastructure. The increase in the number of electric vehicles is accompanied by an increase in demand for charging options – and in addition to a power supply, this also requires robust data networking for load management, billing and access control. This increases the planning effort and the costs. After all, cable ducts have to be installed, Ethernet cables have to be laid and network switches have to be configured. The network infrastructure also requires a power supply and protection from weather, vandalism and unauthorised access. The Powerline specialists of devolo solutions GmbH are demonstrating an alternative in the form of MultiNode LAN.

Flexible and scalable

The new devolo MultiNode LAN is a DIN rail Powerline adapter specially developed for networking AC charging points. Hardware and software are customised for this use. The devolo MultiNode LAN can either be integrated directly into the wall box or installed in a separate fuse block and leverages Powerline technology to use the required power line as a data connection. To do so, a central MultiNode LAN device is connected to a router via Ethernet. The devolo central control unit communicates with the other MultiNode LAN devices at the charging points via Powerline.

This forms a Powerline network that supports up to 100 charging points, which facilitates seamless expansion of a large charging infrastructure. The Powerline network is extremely robust because each network node can automatically become a repeater if required. As a result, the range of the communication network increases gradually when additional charging stations are installed. Additional charging points with other MultiNode LAN devices can be added at a later date without the need for additional structural measures. This scaling option is a crucial advantage, especially in multi-phase rollouts in which the parking area is equipped with charging points in several steps.

Software

The device and management software was specially developed for use in the charging infrastructure. After simple installation by a qualified electrician, the MultiNode LAN automatically forms a suitable network topology that dynamically adapts to the conditions in your home. This ensures that the connections of all components are robust. The MultiNode Manager software allows the charging infrastructure operator to provision all network components quickly and easily. During operation, firmware updates, status monitoring and error diagnostics can be performed remotely via MultiNode Manager.

Fast and secure

devolo MultiNode LAN uses G.hn Powerline technology and is ideal for use in the area of charging infrastructure. Installation directly in the charging stations or fuse blocks protects devolo MultiNode LAN devices from unauthorised access.

Availability and contact

devolo MultiNode LAN is now available and is a flexible solution for data communication in state-of-the-art charging infrastructure and the latest addition to the devolo Powerline product portfolio for the e-mobility industry. The devolo sales team welcomes project enquiries and is happy to provide consultation. Please email any questions you may have to Christoph.Dubsky@devolo.de