All-in-one tool for safety and performance testing of EV charging stations

Fluke has released its FEV350 EV Charging Station Analyser. Technicians involved in the functional testing and troubleshooting of Level 2 and Level 1 AC EV charging stations (EVCSs) can now carry out multiple tests without requiring several tools with the latest EV charging test solution. As a result, they can maximise equipment uptime to levels previously unachievable.

The fully integrated device represents a new way of testing charging stations by allowing all functional EV supply equipment (EVSE) tests to be performed on one device. Conventionally, operators would have to employ multiple connected tools. For example, those operating a multi-function tester would need to attach it to an adapter to display and record the measurements taken. That is why one of the most important features of the new analyser is a built-in colour LCD display, which simplifies the process of analysing EV charging performance.

Designed to be portable and straightforward to operate with its intuitive user interface and Bluetooth communication, the device offers pre-defined test plans and checklists that guide users through all the recommended and mandatory processes before providing easily readable pass/fail indications.

The device delivers an all-in-one solution for functionality testing of charging stations with Type 2 (commercial/outdoor) or Type 1 (mainly residential) connectors. This is specifically beneficial to operators of commercial and outdoor AC charging systems and those with fleet accounts. In addition, contractors, installers, inspectors and regulators will welcome the analyser's ability to carry out 30mA RCD and 6mA RDC-DD trip tests to detect leak current faults safely, efficiently and consistently. Protective earth (PE) pre-tests can also be carried out to ensure no dangerous voltage is present.

An Auto Control Pilot feature simulates the state of various vehicle types and provides instant on-screen feedback of nominal results, with a single-button operation for automatic waveform analysis. The new charging station analyser is also the first device on the market to allow users to create and save projects, add EVCSs to a project and configure individual stations for pass/fail results.

Meeting the IEC/EN61851-1 and IEC/HD 60364-7-72 standards, the FEV350 satisfies all relevant measurement, regulatory and safety test criteria. Compatible with the company's 1664FC multi-function installation tester via wireless connection for full EVCS certification, the analyser can also provide earth bond, insulation and loop/line impedance measurements. The 1664FC allows data to be shared online via Fluke Connect and Fluke Cloud. Finally, the FEV350 integrates seamlessly with the company's TruTest EVSE software for efficient data management and reporting. This enables users to import measurement results directly from the EV charging analyser to the computer, organise and analyse the data, compare individual asset data against previous measurements imported and provide a comprehensive and visual client report.

Riccardo Bigoni, sales programme manager, Fluke, says: "If you're involved in the installation, operation and maintenance of commercial or outdoor electric vehicle AC charging stations, the FEV350 will be your new tool of choice. Being able to perform and document multiple tests quickly and efficiently without having to use multiple tools will be a major benefit to technicians who operate in this rapidly changing and demanding market. The built-in guides in particular will simplify inspections and streamline maintenance. We sincerely believe the FEV350 will play a key role in the acceleration of EV charging station testing."