Remote monitoring and diagnostics of EV charging stations are essential components of every professional charging infrastructure. In this article, we explain how the OCPP communication protocol works, what diagnostic data modern Autel MaxiCharger stations provide, and why a Central System Management System (CSMS) is crucial for efficient operation.
What is OCPP and Why is it Important for Charging Station Monitoring?
OCPP (Open Charge Point Protocol) is an open communication standard for electric vehicle charging stations. It enables remote control, monitoring, and diagnostics of chargers from a central management system (CSMS).
Key Benefits of OCPP Protocol
| Benefit | Description | |---------|-------------| | Open standard | Vendor independence — compatibility with various stations | | Remote control | Start, stop, and reset charging from anywhere | | Real-time monitoring | Instant overview of all charging point statuses | | Automatic diagnostics | Detection of faults, overheating, and anomalies in real time | | Secure communication | WebSocket Secure (WSS) with TLS encryption |
Remote Monitoring and Control via CSMS/EMS
A Central System Management System (CSMS) enables complete oversight of the entire charging infrastructure. Our ZAspot platform implements both protocol versions — OCPP 1.6J and OCPP 2.0.1 — with automatic version detection.
OCPP Messages for Monitoring
| Function | OCPP Message | Direction | Description |
|----------|-------------|-----------|-------------|
| Charge point status | StatusNotification | Station → CSMS | Available, Preparing, Charging, Finishing, Faulted |
| Online check | Heartbeat | Station → CSMS | Regular signal every 30–60 seconds |
| Charging data | StartTransaction | Station → CSMS | Session start: time, ID tag, meter state |
| Charging end | StopTransaction | Station → CSMS | Consumption (kWh), duration, stop reason |
| Live data | MeterValues | Station → CSMS | Power (kW), voltage (V), current (A), energy (kWh) |
| Remote start | RemoteStartTransaction | CSMS → Station | Remotely initiate charging |
| Remote stop | RemoteStopTransaction | CSMS → Station | Remotely terminate charging |
| Reset | Reset | CSMS → Station | Hard/Soft reset of the charging station |
Cable and Connector Monitoring — Integrated Diagnostics
Modern Autel MaxiCharger DC stations feature integrated cable and connector monitoring. Temperature sensors, insulation monitoring, and fault detection ensure safe operation.
Monitored Parameters
| Parameter | Sensor | CSMS Transfer |
|-----------|--------|--------------|
| Connector temperature | Temperature sensors in CCS2/CHAdeMO | MeterValues: Temperature, location: Connector |
| Cable inlet temperature | Inlet temperature sensors | MeterValues: Temperature, location: Inlet |
| Station body temperature | Internal sensors | MeterValues: Temperature, location: Body |
| Insulation fault | IMD (Insulation Monitoring Device) | StatusNotification: GroundFailure |
| Cable short circuit | Overcurrent protection | StatusNotification: OverCurrentFailure |
| Overheating | Automatic protection | StatusNotification: HighTemperature |
Power Module Diagnostics — Individual Module Monitoring
Autel MaxiCharger DC uses a modular power architecture with plug-in 40 kW modules. Each module is independently monitored and diagnosed.
Module Status Information
| Diagnostic Parameter | Local Display (LCD) | Remote via CSMS (OCPP) |
|---------------------|--------------------|-----------------------|
| Module operating | ✅ 21.5" LCD | ✅ AcDcConverter.Enabled = true |
| Module fault | ✅ Red indicator | ✅ AcDcConverter.Problem = true |
| Module tripped | ✅ Deactivated | ✅ AcDcConverter.Tripped = true |
| Overheating | ✅ Warning + auto-limit | ✅ AcDcConverter.Temperature |
Energy Management System (EMS)
For operators with multiple charging points, an Energy Management System (EMS) is essential. Autel MaxiPower EMS ensures optimal distribution of available power.
EMS Functions
- Dynamic Load Balancing (DLB) — automatic power distribution based on current load
- Active Load Management (ALM) — main circuit breaker protection
- PV Hybrid mode — solar energy integration for green charging
- Full EMS mode — complete management including battery storage
Contact us at info@zaspot.cz or +420 770 103 103 for an individual offer.
