OCPP Compliance: Ensuring Flexibility and Interoperability
The Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP) is an open-source communication standard that makes EV charging hardware compatible with any OCPP-compliant software. Choosing OCPP-compliant chargers makes sure you can:
- Switch EV charging networks without being locked into a proprietary system.
- Manage multiple EV charger models from different manufacturers under one platform (e.g., OCPP-compliant Noodoe EV OS).
- Avoid additional networking fees that come with proprietary solutions.
Opting for OCPP-compliant chargers ensures long-term flexibility and ease of management for businesses planning or even thinking about expanding their EV charging operations in the future. However, not all OCPP versions are the same:
- OCPP 1.6: Widely adopted compliance that enables smart charging, remote diagnostics, and load balancing. It provides the foundation for reliable, flexible charging management.
- OCPP 2.0.1: The latest standard that enhances security, transaction handling, and smart energy management. 2.0.1 includes advanced encryption and cybersecurity measures, making it a must for future-proofing EV infrastructure.
Noodoe is the first US-based company to achieve OCPP 2.0.1 Core & Advanced Security Certification while also being fully certified for OCPP 1.6. Our software also carries UL 6730 certification, which means Noodoe ensures the highest safety and performance standards, particularly in load management and energy efficiency.
AC vs. DC Charging: Cost and Speed Considerations
Your choice between AC and DC charging depends on charging speed requirements and cost:
- AC Charging: Slower speeds, taking 6-12 hours to fully charge an EV. Best suited for longer charging sessions at homes, workplaces, hotels, and longer-dwell retail locations.
- DC Charging: Faster speeds, charging an EV in 1-2 hours. Ideal for public charging stations, highways, and commercial fleets where quick turnaround is required.
Power Output (kW) and Charging Speed
- AC charging: Up to 19.2 kW
- DC charging: Up to 400 kW
Higher power output from your hardware means faster EV charging, but the right choice depends on your use case. Consider:
- Vehicle types that will be charged.
- Dwell time (how long vehicles will remain parked).
- Public vs. private use (higher power output is ideal for high-traffic locations, while lower power chargers may be more cost-effective for long-term parking areas).
Form Factor: Choosing the Right Configuration
Selecting the right form factor depends on space availability, installation costs, and user convenience:
- AC Chargers: Available in pedestal or wall-mounted designs, commonly used in workplaces, parking garages, and residential settings.
- DC Chargers: Offered in all-in-one, compact, or distributed setups, making them ideal for high-power charging solutions at fleet depots, shopping centers, and service stations.
Businesses should assess available space and user accessibility when deciding between pedestal, wall-mounted, or freestanding chargers.
Connectivity: Networked vs. Non-Networked Chargers
- Networked Chargers: Use Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or cellular networks for remote monitoring, billing, and payment authentication in public spaces. Without a network, chargers cannot complete financial transactions.
- Non-Networked Chargers: Ideal for residential or private applications without internet connectivity. However, networked chargers are required in multi-family locations if you want to track usage and charge residents for sessions.
Networked EV chargers offer added benefits such as usage tracking, remote diagnostics, and software updates. Learn more about connectivity for your charging hardware in our blog:
Internet Connectivity in EV Charging.
Connector Types: Ensuring Vehicle Compatibility
- Type 2 (J1772): Standard for Level 2 AC charging for most non-Tesla EVs. (Teslas can still use Type 2 chargers with an adapter.)
- CCS (Combined Charging System): Standard for fast DC charging for non-Tesla EVs.
- NACS (J3400): Tesla’s AC and DC charging standard. Becoming common on DC chargers but less common on AC chargers due to the availability of low-cost adapters.
- CHAdeMO: Legacy fast-charging connector mainly for older Nissan and Mitsubishi EVs.
Cable Length: Planning for Accessibility
- AC chargers: 15-25 ft cables.
- DC chargers: 5-15 ft cables.
Longer cables may be necessary depending on parking layouts. Consider cable retractors to keep cables off the ground, particularly in rainy or snowy conditions.
Durability and Weatherproofing: Essential for Outdoor Use
Check weatherproof ratings (IP ratings) for outdoor installations to ensure durability against rain, snow, and extreme temperatures. A higher IP rating means better protection against environmental conditions. This is particularly crucial for chargers installed in open-air parking lots or along highways.
Warranty: Protecting Your Investment
- Standard warranties: Most manufacturers provide 2-3 years of parts coverage.
- Additional coverage: Some warranties include labor and maintenance services.
- White-glove Operation & Maintenance warranties: Ideal for businesses that require high uptime and premium support.
Businesses investing in EV charging infrastructure should consider extended warranties to reduce long-term maintenance costs and ensure consistent performance.
The Importance of Future-Proofing Your Charging Infrastructure
As EV adoption grows, businesses should consider scalability when selecting charging hardware. Investing in OCPP-compliant chargers allows for network flexibility, while selecting high-power DC chargers ensures readiness for future EV models with larger battery capacities.
Furthermore, choosing networked chargers enables remote monitoring and updates, enhancing user experience and operational efficiency.
Browse Noodoe’s EV Charging Hardware
