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What Is a SECC Module? The Core of ISO 15118 EV Charging Communication

What Is a SECC Module?

A SECC (Supply Equipment Communication Controller) is the embedded hardware and firmware component installed on the charging station side of an EV charger. Its core function is to establish and manage the high-level communication (HLC) link between the charger (EVSE) and the electric vehicle (EV) via Power Line Communication (PLC).

Without a SECC, a DC fast charger can only perform basic pilot signal charging (IEC 61851-1 basic signaling). With a SECC, it unlocks:

  • ISO 15118-2 / ISO 15118-20 smart charging communication
  • DIN 70121 protocol (required for current European DC charger certification)
  • Plug and Charge (PnC) — automatic authentication when plugged in, no RFID card needed
  • V2G (Vehicle-to-Grid) bidirectional communication
  • OCPP + ISO 15118 integration for backend platform control

SECC vs. EVCC: What Is the Difference?

The SECC is installed on the charging station (EVSE) side and initiates the HLC session. The EVCC (Electric Vehicle Communication Controller) is inside the EV and responds to the SECC. When building an EV charger product, you need the SECC.

What Protocols Does a SECC Module Support?

A properly designed SECC module for the global market must support: ISO 15118-2 (current mandatory standard in Europe), ISO 15118-20 (next-generation V2G standard), DIN 70121 (older German standard still required by European certification), and IEC 61851-1 as the base-level CP signaling fallback.

Key Technical Specifications

Parameter Recommended Spec
Protocol Support ISO 15118-2, ISO 15118-20, DIN 70121
PLC Chip HomePlug GreenPHY (HPGP)
MCU STM32 industrial-grade
CAN Interface CAN 2.0
Operating Temperature -40°C to 85°C
Certification TÜV Rheinland, DEKRA, CE

AC SECC vs. DC SECC

AC SECC is used in smart AC wallboxes and enables ISO 15118 over the CP line for smart metering, load management, and PnC on AC circuits. DC SECC is used in DC fast chargers (CCS1/CCS2) and must handle higher-speed communication and more complex power negotiation, supporting DIN 70121 as the minimum European requirement.

Share Charging’s SECC Solution

Share Charging’s SECC QC PLC module offers: Full ISO 15118-2/20 and DIN 70121 support, pre-certified by TÜV Rheinland and DEKRA (first in China), CAN + RS232 interfaces, OTA firmware upgrades, and -40°C to 85°C operating range.

Contact Share Charging: zhaishuoyun@share-charging.com | WhatsApp: +8615253120062

Explore SECC & EVCC Products →

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