Etrel INCH charging stations
This guide explains how to configure and connect the Etrel INCH and INCH Duo smart AC chargers for communication with the SmartgridOne Controller.
Supported Devices
| Device Type | Variants | Modbus TCP (Ethernet) | RS485 | Curtailment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Etrel INCH / INCH Duo | All variants supporting Modbus TCP (via local network) | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ (per‑connector current control) |

Wiring
Ethernet connection
- Connect the Ethernet (LAN) port of the charging station to the same local network as the SmartgridOne Controller.
- Make sure the LAN connection is live and the LEDs on the port are on.
- Recommended network cable: Cat 5e or higher, shielded for outdoor use if needed.
For general Ethernet wiring best practices, see the Ethernet wiring guidelines.
Configuration
After the electrical installation of a charger is complete:
-
Power up the charger.
- The green LED will blink while the unit boots.
- Wait until the LED turns steady green (charger ready).
-
Access the local web interface.
- Connect your laptop to the same network as the charger.
- Open a web browser and enter the charger IP address shown on the sticker inside the side maintenance door.
- If you cannot find the IP, press and hold the small reset button inside the maintenance area until a beep—then the current IP address is displayed on the screen.
-
Log in and verify communication settings.
- Check that the network configuration uses a fixed IP address in the same range as the Controller.
- Subnet mask
255.255.255.0and port 502 must be open for Modbus TCP. - DHCP can also be used if the controller supports automatic discovery.
-
Enable Modbus TCP communication.
- Open the web‑interface settings menu.
- Ensure Modbus TCP communication is active (default unit ID = 1 / port 502).
- No RS485 configuration is necessary.
-
Check protection devices.
- Confirm that RCD and over‑current protection are installed and active.
- Etrel INCH units without built‑in RCD / MCB must be protected by external devices in the main distribution cabinet.
-
Verify the LED and LCD indicators.
- Steady green: charger available.
- Blue blinking: charging in progress.
- Red: fault—inspect or reboot before proceeding.
-
Test communication.
- From a PC, run
ping <charger_ip>to verify the connection. - Then add the charger in the SmartgridOne Controller interface (Devices → Add device → EV charging station → Modbus TCP).
- Enter the charger IP and port 502. Keep Unit ID = 1.
- From a PC, run
-
Confirm Modbus control.
- The controller will automatically read model, serial number, and connector data.
- Each connector appears as a controllable child node.
Installer tip
If connection fails, use the side maintenance door to restart the station. Hold the reset button for 4 seconds until the beep, then choose Reset network to restore default IP (192.168.1.250).