Increasingly, mobile operators are deactivating 2G networks.
In The Netherlands, several mobile operators such as T-Mobile, Tele2 and Ben have started to discontinue 2G mobile connectivity as of June 1st, 2023
Per week 39 2021, Alfen has been providing EV charging equipment with 4G connectivity and roaming support.
This means that the majority of our 500,000+ charge points will remain operational if the mobile operator providing connectivity to your charging station deactivates their 2G network.
However, if your charging equipment was produced before the aforementioned date, the charging station may only support 2G mobile connectivity. This could potentially lead to chargers not being able to authorize and/or reimburse charging costs depending on the SIM card and roaming settings. To ensure continued connectivity, the Charge Point Operator of the charging station may need to upgrade the charging station to support 4G mobile connectivity.
Here are the steps that can be taken to maintain operation:
- Check if your charging station is 4G ready:
- Please visit support.alfen.com.
In the bottom-right corner, you will find the Alfen chatbot where you can ask your questions.
If needed, live chat with sales support is available there during office hours.
- Chargers produced on September 27th, 2021, or later support 4G mobile connectivity.
The production date can be found on the type label on the bottom of the charger.
- Chargers produced before this date may not support 4G mobile connectivity and will require action.
The control board of the charger can be replaced with one that does support 4G mobile connectivity using the 4G and WiFi upgrade Kit NG910 or 4G upgrade Kit NG920.
- Verify that you have the required firmware version: Charging stations with the improved mobile connectivity require firmware version 4.15.4 or higher.
- Please visit support.alfen.com.
- Make sure the sim card is 4G ready (Please consult the sim card provider)
- Ensure the Backoffice configuration is set as follows:
MobileNetworkSelection Automatic MobileNetworkPreference 4G
| Note: Although Alfen does not recommend this option, the Sim Card provider can also make sure Roaming is on 2G. This option will allow charging stations to perform on 2G, however if a network is not within signal range it could still cause an offline charging station. |
Alternatively, the charging station could be connected to a local area network with internet connectivity or an external modem in order to connect with a back office. Be aware that the Wired connection may need to be activated in the Network Profile settings when using these alternatives.
As always, the Alfen team is available at anytime to answer questions you may have.
Please reach out to your Sales/Account Manager directly or submit a ticket at support.alfen.com