CHARGE AMPS Amp Guard Dynamic Load Balancing Instruction Manual
- October 30, 2023
- CHARGE AMPS
Table of Contents
- CHARGE AMPS Amp Guard Dynamic Load Balancing
- Product Overview
- Parts
- Status Indicators
- Reset
- Before Installation
- Recommended Tools
- Internet Access
- Installation
- Step 1: Mount Charge Amps Amp Guard
- Step 2: Connect the Current Sensors
- Step 3: Connect Voltage Measurement
- Step 4: Mount and Connect the Power Supply
- Step 5: Connect the Wi-Fi Antenna
- Step 6: Connect the LAN Cable
- Step 7: Overview of the Electrical Installation
- Configuration
- Step 1: Connecting to the Charge Amps Amp Guard Wi-Fi Hotspot
- Step 2: Wi-Fi Configuration
- Step 3: Electrical Settings
- Step 4: Verify Charge Amps Amp Guard Configuration
- Step 5: Cloud Configuration
- Safety
- Technical Data
- References
- Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
- Download This Manual (PDF format)
CHARGE AMPS Amp Guard Dynamic Load Balancing
Product Overview
The Charge Amps Amp Guard is a monitoring system that allows you to measure the current and voltage of your electric vehicle charging station. The system consists of a monitoring module, current sensors, voltage measurement, Wi-Fi antenna, and LAN cable. The system is mounted in a cabinet and is designed for 1 to 3-phase electrical installations.
Parts
The Charge Amps Amp Guard package contains:
- Monitoring Module
- Charge Amps Amp Guard
- Current Sensors
- Voltage Measurement
- Wi-Fi Antenna
- LAN Cable
- Power Supply
- Serial Number and PIN
WARNING: Note the marking on the Power Supply.
- Monitoring Module with current sensors
- Charge Amps Amp Guard
- Wi-Fi antenna
- Serial number and PIN
- Terminal block for voltage measurement
- 12 V power cable
- 230 VAC Power Supply
- Power Supply AC input
- Status indicators
- Reset button (top of Charge Amps logo)
Package contents
- Charge Amps Amp Guard
- 230 VAC Power Supply, which powers the Charge Amps Amp Guard
- Monitoring Module, consisting of a Sensor Cartridge and three connected Current Sensors including cables
- Terminal block for voltage measurement
- Wi-Fi antenna
- 12V power cable
- Quick Guide Installation
Status Indicators
The Charge Amps Amp Guard has three status indicators:
- Power (green) – indicates that the system is receiving power
- Wi-Fi (blue) – indicates that the system is connected to Wi-Fi
- Status (yellow) – indicates the status of the system
Communication status:
Green light – Connected to cloud
Blue light – Connected to network
No light – No network connection
Voltage measurement status:
Green light – Ok
Red light – Error, incorrect phase order
No light – Voltage measurement not connected
Current measurement status:
Green light – Ok
Red light – Error, incorrect phase order
No light – Current measurement not connected
Charge Amps logotype:
Lights On – Power On
Lights Off – Power Off
Reset
If necessary, you can restart the Charge Amps Amp Guard using the reset button. Data stored in the Charge Amps Cloud will not be affected.
- Press gently the reset button located on top of the Charge Amps logo.
- All lights will briefly turn off when the reset has been initiated.
Before Installation
Product Usage Instructions
Before Installation
Before installing the Charge Amps Amp Guard, make sure you have the recommended tools and access to the internet.
Recommended Tools
- DIN Rail Mounting Cabinet
- Screwdriver
- Wire Strippers
- Wire Cutter
- Smart phone, tablet or computer with Wi-Fi support
- Flat head screwdriver, max width 3 mm
- Multimeter, wire stripper
Internet Access
You will need internet access to configure the Charge Amps Amp Guard.
IMPORTANT!
Charge Amps Amp Guard must be connected to the internet to supply data to the
Load Balancer Function which communicates with the charging station(s). The
customer must thus provide an internet connection via a network cable (LAN) or
Wi-Fi (802.11b/g/n 2.4 GHz).
- LAN connection, if available, is preferred for a more secure connection to the internet. The network cable shall be at least CAT6-classified.
- Normally, no firewall changes are needed.
- Wi-Fi signal strength need to be -80dBm or better (-30dBm equals very good signal, -90dBm equals very poor signal).
- The network needs to have DHCP activated to ensure an IP address is automatically assigned to the Charge Amps Amp Guard.
Installation
Follow these steps to install the Charge Amps Amp Guard:
Install the Charge Amps Amp Guard directly after the main switch of the
building to monitor all power usage. For one-phase installations, L2 and L3
shall not be used.
Step 1: Mount Charge Amps Amp Guard
Mount the Charge Amps Amp Guard in a DIN Rail Mounting Cabinet.
- Pull the DIN-rail lock downwards and rotate the Charge Amps Amp Guard onto the DIN-rail.
- Secure in place by pushing the DIN-rail lock back in place.
Please note that an additional slot will be needed for the Power Supply.
Step 2: Connect the Current Sensors
Connect the current sensors to the monitoring module following the
instructions provided in the user manual.
Charge Amps Amp Guard comes with three current sensors, one for each phase.
-
Clamp the current sensor around the incoming phase. The direction of mounting is marked on the current sensor. The arrow must point in the current direction.
IMPORTANT:
It is extremely important that the current sensors are connected to the right phase and are positioned correctly around the main power cables according to the direction indicators on the clamps. -
Connect the sensor cartridge to the top of the Charge Amps Amp Guard.
Step 3: Connect Voltage Measurement
Connect the voltage measurement to the monitoring module following the instructions provided in the user manual.
For installations with power generating equipment
Solar panels, wind power, or plans to introduce such equipment require
connection of the voltage measurement.
For installations without power generating equipment
Connection of the voltage measurement is optional. Do not remove the terminal
block in the bottom of the Charge Amps Amp Guard, it will be needed in case
voltage measurement is connected in the future.
IT type networks
Supply networks of IT type is used in parts of Norway, Belgium and Albania. In
IT network installations, L2 must be connected to both L2 and N. The network
type must also be configured, see chapter Electrical Settings.
IMPORTANT!
- The connection point for the cables should be restricted to an I²t (let through energy) of a maximum of 10 000 A²s.
- Each phase must be connected to the correct terminal connector for voltage measurement to function correctly.
- Turn the power off at the main switch.
- Connect phases and neutral to the included terminal block.
- Connect the terminal block to the bottom of the Charge Amps Amp Guard.
Step 4: Mount and Connect the Power Supply
Mount the power supply and connect it to the monitoring module following the
instructions provided in the user manual.
The Power Supply provide 12V to the Charge Amps Amp Guard. The Power Supply
is pre-configured to 12V. If needed, voltage can be adjusted using the
adjustment screw on the front of the power supply.
- Connect the Power Supply mains (L, N) according to the labels at the Power Supply, i.e. N to AC(N) (left side) and L1 to AC(L) (right side).
- Mount the included 12V power cable to the Power Supply according to the label at the Power Supply, i.e. marked cable to + Vo (left side) and black cable to -Vo (right side).
- Mount the Power Supply onto the DIN-rail.
- Connect the 12V power cable to the Sensor Cartridge.
- Turn the power on at the main switch.
WARNING: Note the marking on the Power Supply.
Step 5: Connect the Wi-Fi Antenna
Connect the Wi-Fi antenna to the monitoring module following the instructions provided in the user manual.
- Mount the included Wi-Fi antenna to the Charge Amps Amp Guard.
- Note that depending on the type of cabinet, an external Wi-Fi antenna could be needed. The external antenna must be of non-grounded type.
Step 6: Connect the LAN Cable
Connect the LAN cable to the monitoring module following the instructions
provided in the user manual.
If applicable, connect the network cable to the LAN port. The cable shall be
CAT6-classified.
Step 7: Overview of the Electrical Installation
Review the electrical installation to ensure that all connections are correct
and secure.
WARNING: Note the marking on the Power Supply.
Configuration
Follow these steps to configure the Charge Amps Amp Guard:
After the electrical installation, Charge Amps Amp Guard need to be properly
configured.
Step 1: Connecting to the Charge Amps Amp Guard Wi-Fi Hotspot
Connect to the Charge Amps Amp Guard Wi-Fi hotspot using the instructions provided in the user manual.
IMPORTANT!
Only 2,4GHz Wi-Fi is supported. The Wi-Fi hotspot is only active within 10
minutes after power up. To restart Charge Amps Amp Guard, see chapter Reset.
- Connect to the Charge Amps Amp Guard Wi-Fi hotspot using a smartphone, tablet or a computer. To avoid conflicting Wi-Fi, set to airplane mode, turn on Wi-Fi, then connect to the hotspot.
- The network name, i.e. the SSID, is AG_*** (* = The last 7 digits/letter of the Charge Amps Amp Guard’s serial number). The serial number can be found on the front label of the Charge Amps Amp Guard (the one with a QR-code).
- Enter the Charge Amps Amp Guard PIN as Wi-Fi password to sign in to the Wi-Fi hotspot. The PIN is an 8 digit code that can be found on the Charge Amps Amp Guard front label.
- When connected to the Wi-Fi hotspot, start a web browser and type in 192.168.251.1 as URL.
- Enter the Charge Amps Amp Guard PIN to sign in.
- Click Login.
Step 2: Wi-Fi Configuration
Configure the Wi-Fi settings using the instructions provided in the user
manual.
Charge Amps Amp Guard need access to the customer/facility network in order to
connect to the Charge Amps Cloud Load balancing function, using LAN or Wi-Fi.
The sign-in details must be configured if Wi-Fi shall be used.
-
Select the Wi-Fi tab.
-
Enter the sign in details of the customer/facility Wi-Fi network.
-
Click Update.
Charge Amps Amp Guard will connect to the customer/facility Wi-Fi network. -
Sign in to the Wi-Fi hotspot again.
-
Make sure the communication status symbol lights up green (within about a minute).
Step 3: Electrical Settings
Configure the electrical settings using the instructions provided in the user
manual.
Charge Amps Amp Guard must be configured with correct information about main
fuses and network type in order to work correctly and in an optimized way. The
supply voltage and current mapping settings is a way to fix installation
issues and shall normally not be changed.
- Select the Installation tab.
- Adjust the settings if needed.
- Click Update to save.
Step 4: Verify Charge Amps Amp Guard Configuration
Verify the configuration of the Charge Amps Amp Guard using the instructions provided in the user manual. After configuration, verify that the Charge Amps Amp Guard installation and configuration is performing correctly.
- Make sure that the status indicators at the Charge Amps Amp Guard indicate proper operation. The communication and current indicators shall all light up green. The voltage indicator shall light up green if the voltage measurement is connected.
- Select the Status tab.
- Check that that the measurements on the Status tab look correct.
There is also a System tab where the Charge Amps Amp Guard can be rebooted or restored to factory settings, if needed.
Step 5: Cloud Configuration
Configure the cloud settings using the instructions provided in the user
manual.
Charge Amps Amp Guard need to be configured in Charge Amps Cloud to set up
Charge Amps Load balancing function. Sign in to the Charge Amps Cloud Partner
Portal and use the Installation Wizard for setup and configuration.
Safety
Read all instructions before use and use the product only for its intended
use. Do not tamper with the product to maintain measurement accuracy. The
Charge Amps Amp Guard must not be discarded with household waste. Dispose of
the product according to local environmental laws and guidelines.
WARNING: Read all instructions before use
- Improper use may create a risk of personal injury.
- The product must only be installed by a qualified electrician in accordance with this Installation Manual.
- National installation requirements and restrictions apply.
- Inspect the product for visible damage before use.
- Never attempt to repair or use the product if it is damaged.
- Do not immerse the product in water, subject it to physical abuse or insert foreign objects in any part of the product.
- Never attempt to disassemble the product in any way.
- Charge Amps Amp Guard is a power monitor. Only use the product for its intended use.
Technical Data
The technical specifications of the Charge Amps Amp Guard are as follows:
- Measuring Range (Current): In: 30 mA, Imax: 36 mA
- Measuring Range (Secondary Side): 85-256 VAC, 1 to 3-phase, 50 Hz
- Measuring Range (Voltage): 2400-2500 MHz Max power output: 20 dBm Rated voltage: 12 VDC 0,5 A, provided by the included 230 VAC +/- 15%) 50 Hz Power Supply
- Network: LAN, Wi-Fi 802.11b/g/n 2.4 GHz Freq range
- Dimensions (W x D x H): Charge Amps Amp Guard: 17,5 x 73 x 100 mm Power Supply: 17,5 x 58 x 90 mm
- Current Sensor Cable Length: 80 cm
- Maximum Cable Diameter for Current Sensors: 10 mm
- Classification of PMD: PMD-x, I and U, SD
- Safety Rating: CAT III 300 V
Measuring range (current) | ± 0-63 A |
---|---|
Measuring range secondary side | In: 30 mA, Imax: 36 mA |
Measuring range (voltage) | 85-256 VAC, 1 to 3-phase, 50 Hz |
Network | LAN, Wi-Fi 802.11b/g/n 2.4 GHz Freq range: 2400-2500 MHz Max power |
output: 20 dBm
Power Supply| Rated voltage: 12 VDC 0,5 A, provided by the included 230 VAC
(+/- 15%)
50 Hz Power Supply
Installation| DIN Rail mounting in a cabinet: 1M Charge Amps Amp Guard 1M
Power Supply
Dimensions (W x D x H)| Charge Amps Amp Guard: 17,5 x 73 x 100 mm
Power Supply:
17,5 x 58 x 90 mm
Current Sensor cable length
Must not be tampered with to maintain measurement accuracy.| 80 cm
Maximum cable diameter for current sensors| 10 mm
Classification of PMD| PMD-x, I and U, SD
Safety rating| CAT III 300 V
Climatic conditions| Operating temperature: Kx, -35 °C to +55 °C
Maximum humidity: 90%
Maximum altitude: 2000 meter over sea level
Degree of pollution: 2 Dust/water protection: IP2X
Indoor meter: Yes
5
Characteristics of functions according to IEC 61557-12
Function symbols| Function performance class| Measuring range| Other
complementary characteristics
---|---|---|---
I| 2| 0-63 A|
V| 2| 85-256 VAC|
The Charge Amps Amp Guard is approved in accordance with the relevant EU
directives and UK law.
Respect the environment! Must not be discarded with household waste! This
product contains electrical or electronic components. Leave the product for
separate collection and proper treatment at a designated location e.g. the
local authority’s recycling station. Disposal of the product must comply with
the local environmental laws and guidelines. The product consists of recycled
aluminium, plastic and electronics, and should be recycled as specified for
these materials.
Approved in accordance with the relevant EU directives and UK law.
Neglecting to follow and carry out the directions, instructions and safety
precautions in this Installation Manual implies that any warranty provisions
will be cancelled and that Charge Amps AB can reject any and all claims for
compensation in connection with any injuries/damage or incidents – direct or
indirect – that are a result of such negligence. The manufacturer does not
give any warranties as to the accuracy or completeness of this document and
shall have no liability for the consequences of using such information. The
manufacturer reserves the right to make changes to information published in
this document without notice.
Visit www.chargeamps.com for the latest document
releases.
© Copyright Charge Amps AB. All rights reserved. Copying, amending and
translating are strictly forbidden without prior written approval from Charge
Amps AB.
Charge Amps App
Please download our App for full control, adjusting settings and enabling
smart charging and scheduling.
Charge Amps Cloud
Full product information
If any question is not answered in this installation manual, please contact
the supplier, see chargeamps.com/support.
chargeamps.com
Charge Amps AB (publ)
Frösundaleden 2B, 8th floor
SE–169 75 Solna, Sweden
Charge Amps Ltd
3 Tim Lane, Oakworth
Keighley BD22 7SE, United Kingdom
Doc. Nr: 130821
Rev: 01
© Copyright Charge Amps AB. All rights reserved
References
- Support - Charge Amps
- Charge Amps - Smart EV Charging
- my.charge.space/
- Charge Amps Amp Guard - dynamic load balancing