What is SAE J1772

History and Background of SAE J1772

SAE International first published the J1772 standard in 2001. It establishes specifications for electric vehicle conductive charging, covering safety, general requirements, AC pins and conductors, communication protocols, and more. The standard has been revised over the years to accommodate developments in EV charging technology.

Key Specifications Defined in SAE J1772

J1772 defines important specifications like maximum voltage and current levels, number of pins and conductors, operating temperature range, required safety mechanisms, and communication protocols between the EV, EVSE, and grid. These ensure interoperability and safe charging.

J1772 Connector and Inlet Design

The J1772 connector and inlet design includes 5 pins, with 2 dedicated for AC charging current, 1 for proximity detection, 1 for grounding, and 1 for communication. Their shape, dimensions, placement, and materials are precisely defined.

Communication Signal Specifications

J1772 specifies a digital communication protocol using pulse width modulation, allowing basic information exchange between the vehicle, charger, and grid. This enables important safety and control mechanisms.

Safety and Protection Mechanisms

With high voltage charging, safety is critical. J1772 defines multiple mechanisms like an interlock control circuit, proximity and alignment detection, specific insertion/removal procedures, and ground fault protection.

Revisions and North American Standardization

As technology progresses, J1772 is updated to support new capabilities while maintaining backward compatibility. It has become the North American standard for conductive charging, supported by major automakers.

Global Compatibility and Adapters

While regions have different standards, J1772 influences global efforts for harmonization. Adapters allow J1772 use internationally. Vehicles with onboard adapters simplify global interoperability.

Charging Level Specifications

J1772 covers Level 1 and Level 2 AC charging. It does not address DC fast charging, which requires different connectors to handle higher voltages. But Combined Charging Standard (CCS) connectors integrate J1772.

Relation to Other Standards and Protocols

J1772 works alongside other SAE, ISO, IEC and IEEE standards governing EVs and charging equipment. It is also complementary to the software, networks, metering systems and infrastructure supporting charging ecosystems.

FAQs

What types of charging does J1772 support?

J1772 supports single-phase AC Level 1 and Level 2 charging; it does not cover DC fast charging.

Is J1772 used worldwide?

J1772 is the standard for North America. With adapters, it has compatibility globally. Regional standards show J1772 influence.

What are the key advantages of the J1772 standard?

It ensures safety, interoperability, reliability and simple operation through its rigorous specifications.

Does J1772 work with all electric vehicles?

All North American EV models support J1772 for AC charging. Global models often support it through adapters.

How is J1772 kept up-to-date?

SAE International manages revisions through committees of experts, accommodating new technologies while maintaining backward compatibility.