ZCS 3-phase 80A meter for Caro wallbox
Direct-connection three-phase meter up to 80 A per phase, with RS485 output and DIN rail mounting. It enables dynamic load balancing of the three-phase ZCS Caro wallbox: the car charges with the power the building leaves free. Part number ZVM-CARO-METER-01.
The ZCS Azzurro ZVM-CARO-METER-01 is the direct-connection three-phase meter that measures the installation's consumption up to 80 A per phase and sends it via RS485 to the three-phase Caro wallbox. With this data the wallbox applies dynamic load balancing: it reduces the charging current when consumption in the home or business rises and brings it back to maximum when power becomes available.
Why load balancing matters
An 11 or 22 kW wallbox draws far more than any household appliance. Without control, charging plus oven, heat pump and induction hob exceeds the contracted power and trips the main breaker or the supply limiter, cutting everything off. With the meter the wallbox knows at every moment how much power is left and adapts: there is no need to increase the contracted power just to charge the car, and night-time charging uses all the free capacity.
ZVM-CARO-METER-01 technical specifications
| Type | Direct-connection three-phase meter |
| Maximum current | 80 A per phase |
| Communication | RS485 to the wallbox |
| Mounting | DIN rail |
| Compatibility | ZCS Azzurro three-phase Caro wallbox |
| Part number | ZVM-CARO-METER-01 |
Direct connection or CTs?
With direct connection the line conductors pass through the meter: wiring is simple and accurate, but the line has to be opened and the limit is 80 A per phase. For larger supplies, or when you do not want to cut into the existing line, use the ZVM-CARO-METER-02 with three split-core current transformers up to 150 A. For single-phase Caro models there is the ZVM-CARO-TA CT.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the meter installed?
In the main distribution board, right after the utility meter, so that it measures all the building's consumption including the wallbox. The RS485 link to the wallbox needs a dedicated data cable.
Does it work with the single-phase Caro wallbox?
This meter is intended for three-phase Caro models. For single-phase versions the manufacturer provides the ZVM-CARO-TA current sensor.
When is the CT version better?
When the current per phase can exceed 80 A, when the main line has large cross-section cables, or when you do not want to open the line to insert the meter.
Does load balancing slow charging down?
Only when other loads draw a lot. When the building uses little power the wallbox charges at the maximum allowed: in practice, with overnight charging, the effect on total charging time is minimal.
Who should install it?
A qualified electrician, who works safely on the main board and certifies the charging installation according to IEC 60364-7-722 and local wiring rules.