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BMW Wallbox Essential

Installation instructions
 EN-US

BMW Wallbox Essential 5

Installation instructions
 BMW Wallbox Essential
Installation instructions

Content

NOTES 9
Safety instructions 9
Intended use 11
About this manual 11
Scope of delivery 12
Guarantee 12

OPERATION 13
Displays and controls 13

REQUIREMENTS 14
General requirements for selecting a location 14
Requirements for electrical connection 15

INSTALLATION 16
Prerequisites for installation 16
Recommended installation positions 16
Necessary installation space 17
Removing the casing cover 18
Removing the connector panel cover 19
Installing the Wallbox 20
Connecting the supply line 22

ELECTRICS 23
Connection overview (with open connector panel cover) 23

SETTINGS 24
DIP switch settings 24
EN-US

COMMISSIONING 26
General commissioning process 26
Installing the connector panel cover 26
Installing the casing cover 28

MISCELLANEOUS 29
Dimensions 29

5
 Technical data 30
Standards and guidelines 31

DISPOSAL 33

SOFTWARE UPDATE 34

PRODUCT INFORMATION PAGE 35

INDEX 37

6
Imprint

Bayerische Motorenwerke Aktiengesellschaft

Munich, Germany
www.bmw.com
Original installation instructions
Copyright ©2019 BMW AG Munich

This documentation contains information protected by copyright. All rights are reserved, especially the
right to copying and distribution. No part of the documentation may be reproduced or processed using
electronic systems, copied, or distributed in any form whatsoever (by photocopying, scanning, or any
other process) without the written agreement of Bayerische Motorenwerke Aktiengesellschaft.

Violations create an obligation to pay compensation.

EN-US

7
Information about this manual

This manual must be retained for the lifetime of the product.

Read these instructions carefully and examine the device, so that you become familiar with it before
you attempt to install, operate, or maintain it. The following special messages may be displayed in this
documentation or on the device, to warn of possible risks or to indicate information which clarifies or
simplifies a process.

The operating instructions should be used for the operation of the Wallbox and to explain errors.

Keep these instructions safe for later use. The most current manuals can be downloaded from the
Internet at https://charging.bmwgroup.com/web/wbdoc/ .

Symbols used

At various points in the manual, you find instructions and warnings of possible dangers. The symbols
used have the following meanings:

WARNING
Means that death or serious injury may occur if the appropriate precautions are not taken.

CAUTION
Means that material damage or slight injury may occur if the appropriate precautions are not
taken.

ATTENTION
Means that material damage may occur if the appropriate precautions are not taken.

ESD
This warning draws attention to the potential consequences of contact with electrostatically
sensitive components.

Note
Refers to procedures which have no danger of creating injury.

Note

Your BMW dealer will be happy to support you in finding a qualified installation partner.

8
NOTES

Safety instructions

Read the safety instructions carefully and examine the device, so that you become familiar with it
before you attempt to install, operate, or maintain it.

WARNING

Electrical danger!
Installation, commissioning, maintenance and retrofitting of the Wallbox must be carried out
by appropriately trained, qualified, and authorized electricians(1), who bear full responsibility
for complying with the applicable standards and installation regulations.
Please note that vehicles or national regulations may require additional overvoltage
protection.
Comply with the country-specific connection and installation regulations.
Before commissioning, confirm that all screwed and clamped connections are tight!
The connector panel must never remain unattended while it is open. Fit the connector
panel cover if you leave the Wallbox unattended.
Do not undertake any unauthorized conversions or modifications of the Wallbox!
Repair work on the Wallbox is not permitted, and may be carried out only by the
manufacturer or by a specialist qualified for the task (replacement of the Wallbox)!
Do not remove any markings such as safety symbols, warnings, performance rating plates,
identification plates, or cable markings!
The Wallbox does not have a power switch of its own! If present, the connector plug serves
as a power cut-off device. Otherwise, the line protection in the building installation serves
as a power cut-off device.
Ensure that the charger cable does not become mechanically damaged (kinked, trapped, or
driven over) and that the contact area does not come into contact with heat sources, dirt or
water.
Do not insert your fingers into the plug connector.
A visual inspection for damage should always be conducted before a charging process.
For this, the contact area of the charging plug, in particular, should be checked for dirt and
moisture, the charger cable checked for cuts or abrasions to the insulation, and the cable
outlet of the Wallbox checked for firm seat.

Persons who, based on their specialist training, knowledge, and experience, as well as knowledge of
(1)

the applicable standards, can assess the tasks assigned to them and recognize possible dangers.
EN-US

9
 WARNING

Grounding regulations

This product must be grounded. If a malfunction or outage occurs, then grounding provides
the electrical current with a path of least resistance, to reduce the risk of an electric shock. This
product is equipped with a cable which has a device grounding conductor and a grounding
plug. The plug must be inserted into a suitable outlet which is correctly installed and grounded
in compliance with all local regulations and requirements.

WARNING – Incorrect connection of the device grounding conductor can result in electric
shock. Consult a qualified electrician or service technician if you are not sure whether the
product is correctly grounded. Do not make any modifications to the plug supplied with
the product – if it does not fit the outlet, then have a suitable outlet installed by a qualified
electrician.

ATTENTION

Never clean the Wallbox using a water jet (garden hose, high-pressure cleaner, etc.)!
Ensure that the Wallbox is not damaged by inappropriate handling (casing cover, internal
parts, etc.).
If it is raining or snowing, and the Wallbox is mounted outdoors, do not open the connector
panel cover!
Protect the charging plug from dirt and water when not in use with the dust cap.
Risk of breaking the plastic casing!
- Do not use countersunk screws for fastening!
- Do not tighten the attachment screws forcefully.
- The installation surface must be completely flat (max. 1 mm difference between contact
or attachment points). The casing must not be bent.

Information for specialists who open the device:

Risk of damage! Electronic components may be destroyed by being touched!

Before working with assemblies, carry out an electrical discharge by touching a metallic,
grounded object!

Failure to comply with the safety instructions may result in danger to life, injuries, and damage to the
device! The manufacturer assumes no liability for claims resulting from this!

10
Intended use

The Wallbox is a charging station for indoor and outdoor use, using which
electric or plug-in hybrid vehicles can be charged. It is not permitted to connect other devices, e.g.,
electrical tools! The Wallbox is intended to be fitted to a wall or a mounting pillar. For installation and
connection of the Wallbox, the applicable national regulations must be complied with.

In all cases, the intended use of the device includes compliance with the ambient conditions for which
this device was developed.

The Wallbox was developed, manufactured, tested, and documented in compliance with the applicable
safety standards. Therefore, if instructions provided for the intended use and the safety instructions
are complied with, under normal circumstances, no risks arise from the product in terms of material
damage or the health of persons.

This device must be grounded. In the case of a fault, the ground connection reduces the risk of an
electric shock. It is fitted with a connector plug with ground connection, or else optionally has a fixed
connection and is connected to a protective conductor. The equipment connector plug must be
inserted into the socket which is provided for the purpose and which was installed in compliance with
local regulations.

The instructions in this manual must be followed precisely. Otherwise, sources of danger could be
created, or safety devices could be made ineffective. Regardless of the safety instructions provided in
this manual, the safety and accident prevention regulations corresponding to the individual application
case must be complied with.

Because of technical or legal restrictions, not all variants/options are available in all countries.

About this manual

This manual and the functions described are valid for devices of the type:

BMW Wallbox Essential

This manual is intended exclusively for qualified personnel. These are persons who, based on their
specialist training, knowledge, and experience, as well as knowledge of the applicable standards, can
assess the tasks assigned to them and recognize possible dangers.

The images and explanations in this manual are based on a typical model of the device. The model of
your device may be different from this.

Please refer to the operating instructions for the device for information and instructions on operation.
EN-US

11
Scope of delivery

Description Quantity

Wallbox 1x

Installation instructions 1x

Operating instructions 1x

Drilling template 1x

Double membrane nipple M32 or ¾" NPT (clamping range 14-21 mm) 1x

Double membrane nipple M16 (clamping range 7-12 mm) 2x

Attachment set for wall installation

Plug for M8, Fischer UXR-10 4x

Wafer-head screw 4x

Guarantee

BMW Service will provide information on the currently applicable guarantee terms. However, the cases
listed below are excluded from the guarantee.

Defects or damage caused by installations which were not carried out as per the requirements in
the BMW Wallbox Essential installation instructions.
Defects or damage caused because the product was not used as per the requirements in the
BMW Wallbox Essential operating instructions.
Costs and damage arising from repairs which were not carried out by a BMW sales outlet or by a
specialized electrician authorized by a contracted service workshop.

12
OPERATION

Displays and controls

Variant with charger cable

Functions:
Charging of electric or plug-in hybrid vehicles

1 Status LED
2 Charger cable connector

EN-US

13
REQUIREMENTS

General requirements for selecting a location

The Wallbox was designed for indoor and outdoor use. It is therefore necessary to make arrangements
for the installation location and protection of the device.

Take into account the locally applicable requirements for electrical installations, measures for fire
prevention, and accident prevention regulations, as well as escape routes at the location.
You must not install the Wallbox at locations:
Which are used as escape and emergency routes.
Which are located in potentially explosive zones (hazardous location).
In which the Wallbox will be exposed to ammonia or ammonia gases (e.g. in or adjacent to
stables).
In which falling objects (e.g. suspended ladders or car tires) could damage the Wallbox.
In which the Wallbox is situated directly in pedestrian traffic and where people could trip over
inserted charger cables.
In which direct water jets could strike the Wallbox (e.g. from adjacent car wash installations,
high pressure cleaners, garden hoses).
In which the installation surface is of insufficient strength to withstand the mechanical loads.
If possible, install the Wallbox protected from direct rainfall, in order to avoid weathering, icing up,
damaging by hail or similar.
If possible, install the Wallbox protected from direct sunshine, in order to prevent the reduction of
the charging current or the interruption of charging because of excessive temperatures of Wallbox
components.
Comply with the permitted ambient conditions, see section Technical data.
Comply with the nationally applicable installation standards, e.g. NFPA 70 and CSA C22.1, and
comply with the nationally and regionally applicable installation standards and regulations, e.g.
Electric Code, Building Code, Residential Code, and Fire Code.

Note

For an installation exposed to the weather, e.g. on an open air parking lot, this can result in
an impermissible temperature excursion which reduces the charging current specification to
16 A.

14
Requirements for electrical connection

As delivered, the maximum charging current for the Wallbox is set to 32 A.

Pre-installed connection cable

As delivered, the Wallbox is provided with a pre-installed connection cable with a NEMA 6-50p plug
which can be inserted into an appropriate socket.

The following safety measure must be installed:

Branch circuit breaker: max. 40 A

EN-US

15
INSTALLATION

Note

As delivered, the maximum charging current for the Wallbox is set to 32 A.

Prerequisites for installation

Comply with the locally applicable installation guidelines.

The electrical connection (NEMA 6-50p socket) must be prepared.
Acclimatization: If the temperature difference between transportation and installation location
is greater than 15 °C, then the Wallbox should be allowed to acclimatize for at least two hours
without being opened.
Under some circumstances, damage from condensate water may not arise until at some point
after the installation.
Ideally, the Wallbox should be left at the installation location for a few hours in advance. If this is
not possible, then the Wallbox should not be stored overnight in the open air or in a vehicle at low
temperatures (< 5 °C).

List of tools

The following tools are needed for the installation:

Torx screwdriver T40

Recommended installation positions

When selecting the installation position, please take into account the position of the charging
connection on your vehicle and the usual direction of parking. Examples:

BMW i3 BMW/MINI PHEV

1 Recommended installation position

2 Alternative installation position

16
Necessary installation space

The installation space specified below (hatched area) ensures convenient installation and operation of
the Wallbox. If several Wallboxes are installed next to each other, then a separation of at least 200 mm
(8") must be maintained between the Wallboxes.

Note
The installation height must be complied with, to fulfill the requirements for indoor and outdoor
use.

Dimensions in millimeters (inches)

EN-US

17
Removing the casing cover

1. On the underside of the Wallbox, push the

two locking mechanisms 1 of the casing cover
upwards.
The casing cover should spring outwards a
little at the bottom.

2. On the underside, swing the casing cover

forwards a little 2.
3. Now unhook the casing cover upwards 3.

Note
To avoid scratches or other damage, store
the casing cover in its packaging.

18
Removing the connector panel cover

1. Release the four screws with which the

connector panel cover 1 is mounted.

ESD

Risk of damage! Electronic components may be destroyed by being touched!

Before working with assemblies, carry out an electrical discharge by touching a metallic,
grounded object!

2. Remove the connector panel cover. The

connector panel 2 is now accessible.
3. Remove the desiccant bag from the connector
panel and dispose of it correctly.

WARNING

The cover of connection area 3 for the line voltage may be removed only by a trained
electrician.
EN-US

19
Installing the Wallbox

The attachment material supplied is suitable for concrete, tiling, and wood (without the use of plugs). If
the substructure is not one of the above, then a suitable type of attachment must be selected.

Note

If the substructure is not one of the above, then the attachment materials must be provided
by the customer. It is essential that the device is fitted correctly, and this is outside the
responsibility of the device manufacturer.

Installation preparations

Drilled holes
Note
Comply with the installation height.
Upper edge of the drilling template =
1500 - 1700 mm.

1. Mark the locations for the four drilled holes 1

to 4 using the provided drilling template and a
spirit level.
2. Drill the attachment holes.
3. Insert the plugs.

Top attachment screws

1. Screw in the two top wafer-head screws
until the remaining distance from the wall is
≥ 20 mm.

1 Wall
2 Plug
3 Drilled hole
4 Wafer-head screw

20
 Installation on cavity walls
For installation on cavity walls, at least two
attachment screws, e.g. 1 and 2, must be
attached to one of the wall's supporting elements.
For the other attachment screws, special cavity
wall plugs must be used.

Note
When installing on a cavity wall, you must
ensure specifically that the structure has
sufficient load-bearing capacity.

Attaching the Wallbox

1. After introducing the cabling, hang the Wallbox

from the two top wafer-head screws 1 and 2.

Note
Ensure that the supply line is correctly
laid on the reverse side, and that it is not
trapped.

2. Tighten wafer-head screws 1 and 2.

3. Then attach the Wallbox using the two lower
wafer-head screws 3 and 4.
4. For safe storage, wind the charger cable
around the Wallbox, see operating instructions.
EN-US

21
Connecting the supply line

As supplied, the Wallbox is equipped with a pre-

installed connection cable (1).

This can be connected into an appropriate socket,

using a NEMA 6-50p plug.

If required, the supply line can also be converted

by a specialist into a permanent connection to an
existing domestic installation, but the nationally
applicable regulations must be complied with.

22
ELECTRICS

Connection overview (with open connector panel cover)

DSW1 DIP switch for configuration X3 Diagnostics connection, RJ45

DSW2 DIP switch X4 Ethernet1 connection, LSA+ terminals
T1 Service button X5 USB connection
LED Status LED (internal) Shd Shield connection for Ethernet1
connection terminals
X2 RS485 connection

ATTENTION

The X3 diagnostic connection is suitable only for error analysis and must not be used to
connect the device to a network.

Note

The connection overview shows all options of the device, but the legend only lists the available
options. If necessary, not all connections are available for your device variant.
EN-US

23
SETTINGS

DIP switch settings

Note

Changes to the DIP switch settings take effect only after a restart of the Wallbox! To do this,
press the Service button until the 1st signal tone is heard (approx. 2 seconds). Alternatively,
you can also switch the supply voltage off and on again.

Note

Switches which are not described here must be left in the OFF position.

DIP switches
The DIP switches are used for addressing
and configuring the Wallbox and are located
underneath the connector panel cover.
DSW1: Configuration, DIP switch, upper
DSW2: Addressing, DIP switch, lower

DIP switch - example

For a more detailed explanation, the illustration
shows the position of the DIP switches for the ON
and OFF states.

24
Maximum charging current (DSW1)

The following DIP switches can be used to set a maximum value for the charging current. This
maximum value applies to each connected phase individually and not as a sum value for all phases
together. The current specification is transmitted to the vehicle (Control Pilot Duty Cycle). It is only
possible to set a maximum value, which is less than or equal to the operating current defined on the
type plate.

Current DIP switch Illustration

DSW1.6 DSW1.7 DSW1.8

0A ON ON ON

10 A OFF OFF OFF

13 A ON OFF OFF

16 A OFF ON OFF

20 A ON ON OFF

25 A OFF OFF ON

32 A ON OFF ON
EN-US

25
COMMISSIONING

General commissioning process

Switch on the supply voltage. 15-20 seconds after the self-test, the status LED (LED strip) must
light up blue.
Carry out the prescribed initial testing as per locally applicable guidelines and laws.
Install the casing cover, see section Installing the casing cover.

Installing the connector panel cover

Note

Confirm that a current version of the software is available before you install the connector panel
cover. For further information, see section SOFTWARE UPDATE.

Note

The Wallbox must not be used permanently if this cover is absent or damaged. Alternative
covers are not permitted.

Attachment bolts
1. Replace the connector panel cover 1.
2. Attach the connector panel cover again using
the four bolts.

26
Casing marking
1. Tighten the four bolts until the casing markings
at right and left on the connector panel cover
close flush with the casing.
2. The connector panel cover must be correctly
sealed by the casing.

For self-tapping bolts, an increased torque

application is required: 2.58 ft·lb.

EN-US

27
Installing the casing cover

Note

This cover is not essential for the safe operation of the Wallbox.

Attaching the casing cover

1. Attach the casing cover at the top, and ensure
that the hooks of the casing cover are correctly
inserted 1.
2. Press the cover downwards, and then tilt the
casing cover 2 towards the back.
The casing cover must slide into the lower
guides with very little resistance.

ATTENTION
Ensure that the casing cover sits correctly
in the casing guide on all sides. Only a small
uniform gap should be present.

Locking mechanisms
1. Press the lower part of the casing cover onto
the Wallbox until the locking mechanisms 1
engage fully.

28
MISCELLANEOUS

Dimensions

EN-US

Dimensions in millimeters

29
Technical data

Electrical data

Cable feed: Surface or flush-mounted

Connection cross-section: As per the branch circuit breaker

Supply terminals: Connection line:

- AWG (min.-max.): 24 – 6

Temperature rating for supply terminals: 105 °C (221 °F)

Rated current (configurable connection values): 10 A, 13 A, 16 A, 20 A, 25 A or 32 A

1-phase (3 lines)

Mains voltage: 120/240 V or 120/208 V Y or 127/220 V c.a.

Mains frequency: 60 Hz

Overvoltage category: III in accordance with UL 840

Branch circuit breaker (control cabinet): Max. 40 A

Fault current monitoring: CCID20

Ventilation during charging: Not supported

Protection class: I

IP protection class for device/type rating: IP54/Type 3R

Protection against mechanical impact: IK08

Mechanical data

Dimensions (W x H x D): 366 x 455 x 202 mm (excluding plug)

Weight: approx. 8 kg (depending on variant)

Installation (stationary): On the wall or mounting pillar

30
Ambient conditions

Usage: Indoor and outdoor

Operating temperature range -30 °C to +50 °C (-22 °F to 122 °F)

without direct sunlight

Temperature behavior: This is not a safety device, merely an operating

function. The specified operating temperature
range must be complied with.
Within the specified operating temperature
ranges, the device provides the charging current
continuously.
To increase the charging availability, the charging
current specification is reduced to 16 A in the
event of prohibited exceeding of temperature.
A further consequence may be the shut-off of
the charging process. After cooling, the charging
process is continued, and the charging current
specification is increased again.

Temperature range for storage: -30 °C to +80 °C (-22 °F to 176 °F)

Rate of temperature change: max. 0.5 °C/min (max. 32.9 °F/min)

Permissible relative air humidity: 5 % to 95 % non-condensing

Altitude: max. 2000 m above sea level

Standards and guidelines

National regulations (USA)

FCC Title 47, Part 15 Digital Device Class B

NEC Article 625 Electric vehicle charging systems

EN-US

National regulations (Canada)

CE Code CSA C22.1 No. 280 Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment

ICES-003 Class B

31
Recognized standards

UL 2594 Electric vehicle supply equipment

CSA C22.2 No. 280
NMX-J-677-ANCE

UL 2231-1 Personnel protection systems for electric vehicle

CSA C22.2 No. 281.1 (EV)
NMX-J-668/1-ANCE Supply circuits: General requirements

UL 2231-2 Personnel protection systems for electric vehicle

CSA C22.2 No.281.2 (EV)
NMX-J-668/2-ANCE Supply circuits: Particular requirements for
protection devices for use in charging systems

UL 991 Tests for Safety-related controls employing solid-

state devices

UL 1998 Software in programmable components

UL 61010 Electrical Equipment For Measurement,

CSA C22.2 No. 107.1 Control, and Laboratory Use; Part 1: General
Requirements

32
DISPOSAL

After correctly decommissioning the device, have the device disposed of by Service
or else in compliance with all currently applicable disposal regulations.

Disposal information
The symbol of the "crossed-out" waste bin means that electrical and electronic
devices, including accessories, must be disposed of separately from general
household garbage. Instructions are to be found on the product, in the instructions for
use, or on the packaging.
The materials can be recycled according to their designation. Through re-use,
material recycling, or other forms of recycling old equipment, you will be making an
important contribution to the protection of our environment.

EN-US

33
SOFTWARE UPDATE

The software for the Wallbox can be updated via the USB connection inside the device. For access to
the USB connection, the casing cover and the connector panel cover must be removed.

Follow the details in the instructions for updating the software.

The latest software and the corresponding instructions can be downloaded from the
Internet at https://charging.bmwgroup.com/web/wbdoc/ . A new software version may,
for example, take into account modified standards, or improve the compatibility with
new electric or plug-in hybrid vehicles.

34
PRODUCT INFORMATION PAGE

This product is UL-certified.

It complies with the applicable UL, CSA, and ANCE standards for
North America, Canada, and Mexico. Further information under
https://charging.bmwgroup.com/web/wbdoc/.

FCC INFORMATION
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC regulations. Its operation is subject to the following
two conditions:
(1) This device must cause no hazardous interference, and
(2) This device must withstand all interference received, including interference that causes
unintended operation.
ATTENTION:
Changes or modifications which were not expressly approved by the responsible authority may
impede the right to use the device.
NOTE:
This device has been tested, and it complies with the limits for a digital device of class B as per
part 15 of the FCC regulations. This limit is intended to provide appropriate protection against
harmful interference in a residential situation. This device generates and uses high-frequency
energy, and if it is not installed in compliance with the instructions, it can result in interference to
radio communication. However, there is no guarantee that there will be no interference in a specific
installation. If this device causes interference to radio or television reception (this can be determined
by switching the device off and on), then the user should attempt to prevent the interference through
one or more of the following measures:
- Align the reception antenna differently.
- Increase the distance between device and receiver.
- Connect the devices to a different power circuit than the one to which the receiver is connected.
- Request assistance from the dealer or an experienced radio/television technician.

CANADA
This digital device of class B complies with the Canadian ICES-003. EN-US

35
 This product is NOM-certified.

MEXICO
Its operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device must cause no hazardous
interference, and (2) This device must withstand all external interference received, regardless of the
source of the interference.

36
INDEX

About this manual......................................................................................................................................................... 11

Attaching the Wallbox.................................................................................................................................................. 21

BMW Wallbox overview............................................................................................................................................... 13

Commissioning.............................................................................................................................................................. 26
Connecting the supply line........................................................................................................................................ 22
Connection overview (with open connector panel cover)................................................................................. 23

DIP switch settings....................................................................................................................................................... 24

Disposal............................................................................................................................................................................ 33

General requirements for selecting a location...................................................................................................... 14

Imprint................................................................................................................................................................................. 7
Installation................................................................................................................................................................ 12, 16
Installation prerequisites.............................................................................................................................................. 16
Installing the casing cover.......................................................................................................................................... 28
Installing the connector panel cover....................................................................................................................... 26
Installing the Wallbox.................................................................................................................................................... 20
Intended use.................................................................................................................................................................. 11

List of tools..................................................................................................................................................................... 16

Necessary installation space..................................................................................................................................... 17

Recommended installation positions...................................................................................................................... 16

Removing the casing cover....................................................................................................................................... 18
EN-US

Removing the connector panel cover..................................................................................................................... 19

Safety instructions........................................................................................................................................................... 9
Scope of delivery.......................................................................................................................................................... 12
Standards and guidelines........................................................................................................................................... 31

37
T

Technical data................................................................................................................................................................ 30

38
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IA BMW Wallbox Essential UL 1.0