Physical Connectivity & Cabling
The physical connection is the foundation of a reliable energy management system. Improper cabling is the most common cause of system instability and charging interruptions.
Ethernet (LAN)
Standard: Must be compatible with IEEE 802.3u (Fast Ethernet) or higher.
Short Connections (≤ 1 m): Standard Cat. 6 cables (like the one included) are suitable for short runs within the same cabinet.
Longer Connections (> 1 m): The use of shielded Ethernet cables (S/FTP or STP, Cat. 6 or higher) is essential for a reliable, disruption-free operation.
Installation: Network cables must always be laid separately from current-carrying (AC) lines.
Max Length: The total Ethernet path must not exceed 90 meters. For any distance ≥ 90 m, you should switch to an optical fiber connection or at least repeat the ethernet signal via an additional active switch.
💡 The "Long Antenna" Effect & EMI
In energy management environments, network cables are often routed close to high-current power lines. An unshielded Ethernet cable acts as a "long antenna," picking up electromagnetic interference (EMI) from the surrounding magnetic fields. This noise can severely degrade or completely block the communication signal.
The Result: When the connection is disrupted, assets (like EV chargers) enter fallback modes, and the Energy Management System (EMS) triggers protective measures. This leads to system downtime and dissatisfied users. Since there is no software fix for physical interference, using shielded cabling or fiber optics is a small detail with a massive impact on reliability.
WLAN & Powerline
Compatibility: If WLAN is used for asset connectivity (e.g., Wallboxes), the network must support IEEE 802.11n (Wi-Fi 4 / 2,4 GHz) or higher.
Important: Ensure that backward compatibility to 802.11n is enabled. Pure "Wi-Fi 6 only" environments may prevent assets from connecting.
Stability: Wireless (WLAN) and Powerline (PLC) connections are prone to interference. To ensure maximum system stability, a wired Ethernet (LAN) connection is strongly preferred.
USB
Always use high-quality, shielded USB cables.
Maximum cable length: 3 meters.
Network Configuration
Router & Switch Requirements
Router: Must have DHCP server capability with a "static lease" (static IP) option.
Mobile Routers: Minimum LTE/4G modem. We recommend an external antenna mounted outdoors for a reliable signal.
Network Settings
Subnet: All components (gridBox and assets) must be in the same subnet.
Bandwidth: Minimum 10 Mbit/s upload/download for the internet connection.
Firewall: Must be configured according to our gridBox Endpoint List.
Asset-Specific Requirements
Assets (Inverters, Meters, Wallboxes etc.) must be compatible and installed according to manufacturer specs.
General Asset Rules
Assets must generally be listed in the Supported Asset List (SAL) and enabled for your gridBox product used.
Firmware must match the versions specified in the SAL.
Interface Preference: If an asset offers both Serial and Network interfaces, Modbus TCP (Network) is always preferable.
Meters (for Dynamic Load Management)
GCP Meter: At least one meter must be installed at the Grid Connection Point (GCP).
Specifications: Transmission ratio of X:5A (where X ≥ main fuse rating) and Accuracy Class 1 or better.
Inverters & I/O Adapters
Inverters: Must be connected to the main distribution board.
I/O Adapters: Can be used for DSO (grid operator) power limitation signals.