How to install Zaptec Sense - RS485 Modbus + Ethernet connectivity

Zaptec Sense monitors energy usage and optimises EV charging in real time. This guide is for certified electricians installing Zaptec Sense with RS485 Modbus and Ethernet connectivity. 

For other connection types, see:

 


 

Package contents:

  • Zaptec Sense unit
  • Custom Micro USB cable
  • Adhesive magnet sheet
  • Double-sided tape

Required: 

  • 5V DC DIN rail power supply (min. output current: 1A)
  • DIN rail digital energy meter (see bundle options below)
  • (Optional) Unshielded CAT5e/CAT6 Ethernet cable.
     
     


1. Hardware installation 

  1. Mount the 5V power supply to the DIN rail.
  2. Connect Zaptec Sense using the custom Micro USB cable:
    • White, green, and brown (GND): Connect to the RS-485 terminals of the e-meter.
    • Red [V+] and black [V-]: Connect to the 5V power supply.
  3. On the e-meter, set the RS-485 Modbus baud rate to 9.6 kbps.
    • Some meters (e.g. Janitza UMG604-E and Janitza UMG96RM-E-RCM )default to a baud rate of 115.2kbps. This must be changed to 9.6kbps for Zaptec Sense. 
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The diagram provided is for Zaptec Sense Bundle EM340. For wiring diagrams for other bundles, see the installation manual.

Zaptec Sense bundle options 

Zaptec Sense is available in bundles with the following e-meters. Choose the bundle that fits your installation needs. For each, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and refer to the installation manual for wiring diagrams.

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2. Configure Zaptec Sense in the Zaptec App

  1. Open the Zaptec App and log in.
  2. Go to Dashboard > Tap the three dots in the corner > Install product.

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  3. Scan the QR code on the back of the Zaptec Sense unit or in the manual.
  4. Follow the instructions to connect to a network, set the main fuse value and confirm the e-meter connection.

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Light status indicators 

Use the LED lights on the Zaptec Sense to check its status:

  • Solid white: Device is correctly configured and active.
  • Solid orange: IP address received, but cloud connection failed.
  • 2 orange blinks: No IP address received via Ethernet or Wi-Fi.
  • Orange → white (looping): No M-bus data received. Check if the HAN port is activated.
  • 3 orange blinks: Device not configured. Log in via the Zaptec app to set up Wi-Fi or Ethernet.

View the full light signal guide. 
 


 

Network settings

Update network settings via the Zaptec App. 

If you have the PIN or are an installer: 

  1. Hold your phone close to Zaptec Sense.
  2. In the app > Tap the three dots in the corner > Configure products.
  3. Select the device (APGXXXX or APHXXXX).
  4. Enter the PIN code > Update network settings.

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If you're the owner:

  1. Hold your phone near the Zaptec Sense.
  2. In the app > Installations > your installation > Charging Mode > Configure > Advanced settings.
  3. Update network settings.

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Read also: How to connect Zaptec Sense to network.

If Zaptec Sense loses connection, it automatically reduces charging current to the minimum power (6A) to avoid overloading your system. You can change the minimum power in the Zaptec Portal.

 


 

How to disable Zaptec Sense

  1. Open the Zaptec App > Installations > Zaptec Services.
  2. Toggle the switch off to disable Zaptec Sense.
  3. Adjust the maximum charging current following installation capacity, then tap Save.

     


 

Need diagrams for other bundles?

See the installation manual. The process for setting up the Zaptec Sense is the same; only the wiring diagram and e-meter model change.

 

 

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