Wi-Fi connections

In this article, you can read about Wi-Fi requirements and recommendations for our chargers.

If you're trying to join a Wi-Fi network, one of these articles should help:

Learn how to connect Zaptec Pro to network 

Learn how to connect Zaptec Go to network 

• Make sure that 2.4 GHz is enabled so that the charger can make a network connection.
• Configure a static channel 1, 6 or 11 to avoid interference between channels when several access points are used.
• Make sure your router is not set to select channels automatically.
• Static IP addresses**

• Minimum -75dBm signal strength to each charger (checked via Zaptec Portal

• In case of installation with multiple APs, make sure they are on different channels

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  If you have several APs its important that they have different SSID.

**Configured via router

2.4 GHz WiFi

All of our chargers support Wifi as a communication method, but it must be a 2.4 GHz WiFi network, type b, g, or n. Most routers nowadays support 2.4 and 5 GHz. 

Router

The ISP (Internet Service Provider) is the one that delivers internet via e.g. a switch to your installation. In order for you or the customer to be able to control the network, we recommend that you always set up your own router. Then you have the possibility to make the settings as described above. Always use an industrial router that is stable and suitable for this type of installation. Make sure that the ISP is informed about how you intend to set up the network.

Access point (AP)

When installing access points, make sure to use the correct type. Long-range (LR) is good outdoors,  and short-range (SR) is good indoors.
Only set up the power on the APs when needed so they don't interfere with each other. If the AP is close to the chargers, it may be a good idea to lower the power instead.
Make sure the APs are on different channels. If there are multiple APs, it is advantageous to "white list" the MAC addresses of the chargers to each AP to prevent chargers from connecting to the same AP or to an AP with low signal strength. It is better to have a few well-placed APs than many poorly placed ones. 

DHCP

When installing with dynamic IP addresses (DHCP), it is particularly important that the network is dedicated. If the network is shared with others, it is easy to run out of IP addresses, resulting in the chargers risking the connection. If the lease time is too long, it can take time for the chargers to get a new assigned IP address. Since the chargers are individually connected, each charger requires its own IP address, so make sure there is enough in the DHCP.

Environment

The positioning of the WiFi access point is another consideration as it can affect signal strength and performance. Get in touch with your network partner in order to identify the best location.

When setting up a WiFi, it is always important to consider the environment of the location. Everything affects signal strength and quality. If there are moving parts such as doors/gates, they will affect the conditions. Cars in a garage change the conditions all the time. The material of walls, ceilings, and floors also affects how signals bounce. Every location is unique, so always take measurements before installation to avoid being surprised and, in the worst case, having to re-do the installation.

Signal Strength (RSSI) 

Signal strength is measured in dBm (decibels per milliwatt) and is a logarithmic scale. This means that if the RSSI is reduced by -3dBm, the signal strength is halved. If it is increased by 3dBm, it doubles. So although the difference between -75dBm and -78dBm may seem small, a signal strength of -78dBm is half of -75dBm. Keep this in mind when placing APs.

All our products use WiFi antennas that are permitted in accordance with EMC directives and regulations. However, a mobile phone will indicate a higher coverage as mobile phones are not limited to the same EMC directives and regulations. Meaning, a low coverage indication on mobile phone will mean that the charging station has insufficient WiFi coverage.

☝️ WPA security: WPA2 for Zaptec Pro