EVITP Communication and Networking Systems 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the primary role of a VPN in an EVSE network architecture?
- Control the physical power output to the vehicle
- Increase charging session throughput
- Provide secure encrypted communication between EVSE and back-end systems (Correct answer)
- Replace the need for OCPP in managed networks
Correct answer: Provide secure encrypted communication between EVSE and back-end systems
A VPN creates an encrypted tunnel between the EVSE and back-end systems, protecting sensitive data from interception on public or cellular networks.
Question 2: Which network protocol automatically assigns IP addresses to EVSE units on a network?
- DNS
- DHCP (Correct answer)
- FTP
- HTTP
Correct answer: DHCP
DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) automatically assigns IP addresses to networked devices, including EVSE, eliminating the need for manual static configuration.
Question 3: In the context of EV charging networks, what does 'roaming' mean?
- Moving an EV charger to a different physical location
- Switching between AC and DC charging modes during a session
- Using a charging station from one network while authenticated through another (Correct answer)
- Driving an EV across state lines
Correct answer: Using a charging station from one network while authenticated through another
Roaming allows an EV driver to charge at a station operated by a different network than the one they subscribed to, similar to cellular phone roaming between carriers.
Question 4: The OCPI (Open Charge Point Interface) protocol is primarily designed for:
- Monitoring EV battery state of health
- Configuring circuit breaker trip settings
- Physical installation procedures at EVSE sites
- Enabling roaming between different EV charging networks (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Enabling roaming between different EV charging networks
OCPI is an open protocol that enables different EV charging networks to share data and allow driver roaming, so users can charge across multiple network operators.
Question 5: What cybersecurity practice is most essential for protecting EVSE data transmitted over public networks?
- Using unencrypted HTTP connections for faster speed
- Sharing credentials between stations for easy management
- Disabling all remote monitoring to prevent intrusion
- TLS/SSL encryption for all communications (Correct answer)
Correct answer: TLS/SSL encryption for all communications
TLS/SSL encryption secures data in transit between EVSE and central systems, preventing eavesdropping or man-in-the-middle attacks on public and cellular networks.
Question 6: What does 'Plug & Charge' functionality primarily require to work correctly?
- A separate RFID card presented at each session
- A secure communication protocol between the vehicle and EVSE (Correct answer)
- Manual billing entry at a payment kiosk after charging
- A dedicated proprietary smartphone app
Correct answer: A secure communication protocol between the vehicle and EVSE
Plug & Charge uses ISO 15118 to establish a secure, encrypted communication channel between the EV and EVSE, enabling automatic authentication and billing without driver action.
Question 7: What is the primary purpose of a back-office system in EVSE network management?
- To physically connect charging cables to vehicles
- To generate AC power for the charging stations
- To handle billing, session management, and remote station monitoring (Correct answer)
- To install electrical conduit at charging sites
Correct answer: To handle billing, session management, and remote station monitoring
The back-office (or back-end) system manages billing, user accounts, charging session records, remote diagnostics, and station monitoring for an EV charging network.
EVITP Communication and Networking Systems 2
What is the primary role of a VPN in an EVSE network architecture?