In this era, owning a home has become a big achievement in life. Remember, your home is not simply a home, but it is your palace. It is the biggest investment in your life. After owning a home, another important challenge is to keep the home safe and secure.
Nowadays, we know that burglaries and thefts are becoming common in the country. And we need to think of the security of our home. There are so many home security devices available in the market with their own technical capabilities. In this article, let’s explore “How to Choose the Best Security Camera with SIM Card for Your Home.”
Common security cameras use Wi-Fi or wired network connectivity to access the internet. But in some places, like remote houses and frequent power failure areas, it is difficult to get connected to the internet. In such cases, people prefer to go for a “CCTV security camera with SIM card”.
What Is a SIM-Based Security Camera?
By definition, a security camera that uses a SIM card to get connected to the internet (4G/5G Network) for wireless data transmission is known as a “SIM-based security camera”.
These types of cameras are mostly used in rural areas, where it is very difficult to get internet access. Some of the models use built in SIM card, and others require a purchase of separate SIM card. The SIM card allows the camera to communicate with other devices through the cellular network.
This device gets power from solar or backup batteries in case of remote surveillance in rural areas. This camera can be used at agriculture fields, farms, ranches, and any other remote places. The main advantage is that it doesn’t require WIFI access. The installation is simple because there is no wiring required.
Usually, everyone uses a specific data plan for their mobile phones. Same way, you need to purchase a suitable data plan for your camera SIM also. Before installing the camera, make sure the signal is strong enough for the functionality. Otherwise, change the data network and check for the signal strength.
Cameras with SIM cards are very useful for remote monitoring in no internet or no WIFI areas. It is best for temporary surveillance needs. In some places, they act as a backup during Wi-Fi failures. Above all, they provide a secure data transmission.
These types of cameras are widely used in remote areas where frequent power failures occur. These types of cameras are best suited in poor internet connectivity areas.
One of the biggest benefits of the Wireless security Camera with SIM Card is that it doesn’t depend on your home internet. Simply insert a 4G SIM card, and the camera begins sending footage or any other data over the mobile network.
Basic difference between security cameras
Who can take advantage of a Security Camera with SIM?
3.1 Wired CCTV
A wired CCTV system uses a physical wiring system to connect the camera output to the recorder or monitor. Usually, the cables are coaxial or sometimes Ethernet. These cables transmit both power and data and offer a quality and reliable output.
The installation needs more labour. But once installed, the connection and performance will be good for a long time. Compared to wireless systems, this system suppresses the interference from other electronic devices.
These systems are normally connected to the power grid, hence no need to worry about backup battery replacement or maintenance.
Wired CCTV cameras are good for hospitals, large commercial buildings, Big bungalows, Villas etc.,
3.2 WiFi Camera
WiFi or wireless cameras uses WiFI facility or any other wireless technologies to transmit/receive data.
The system doesn’t use physical cables for connectivity. It uses wireless technology for data transmission. So the installation is very simple and easy. No need of any high technical assistance. They can be placed in any nook and corner of the building as it doesn’t require cables for connectivity.
But there is a big chance of signal loss. It can be good, only for short distances. The wireless system is easily absorb interference from other electronic devices. Need to take care to eliminate the interference for better results.
The system needs a constant power supply. Make sure you have a well-maintained power backup system to keep the system always active.
The wireless camera setup is good for small homes, rented properties where shifting is expected often, small offices, Restaurants, Cafés, Departmental stores, etc.
3.3 SIM camera
A CCTV camera with a SIM card uses a SIM to communicate with the local cellular network companies to transmit the data wirelessly. We know that traditional cameras use either a wired system or WiFi for transmission. But the SIM card-based camera can work without WiFi. These types of cameras are suitable in places with poor internet connections.
The connection of this system is highly reliable and more secure. The user can watch the live streaming from their mobile phone or laptop from anywhere.
The installation is very simple, not a big technical deal. Also, the system is highly portable. It can be relocated easily, as there are no physical wires involved during the installation.
These cameras are best suited for agricultural lands, ranches, farms, or any other places where the internet connectivity is poor.
The SIM-based wireless security camera has its own
advantages. More places require its utilization. The following are some areas
where this facility will be in the highest demand.
Remote Locations & Rural Areas:
There are many places in India without internet, especially in the interior rural areas. In such areas, it is difficult to have WiFi or wired systems. So the SIM-based cameras are the best choice for them. The following are the best examples.
- Agriculture Lands faraway from urban areas
- Poultry or cattle farms
- Ranches
- Camps located in hilly areas
- The small villages without a broad brand reach.
Construction Sites:
The construction site monitors the night and day activities of materials downloading and manpower monitoring, etc. Some sites may have poor internet connectivity. This SIM-based camera is a good choice for them.
Temporary Setups
Some events, like weddings or other shows, are only planned
temporarily for one or two days. They need a portable and reliable
system for their event recording. SIM-based cameras are a better choice for
them.
Business places
Small shops, Restaurants or coffee shops, Small offices, Warehouses, and clinics are the places where the SIM-based CCTV is a good choice.
Farmhouse owners
Some owners may have farmhouses in different remote places. They can have this system for easy access.
Caring for elderly people
When the elderly parents or grandparents are left over in a village house or in any other remote place, you can easily monitor their activity and take care of them.
Important Factors to Consider Before Buying a SIM Camera
Before buying a SIM camera, please consider the following factors.
Power Source
First of all, decide whether you want to power up the system with a solar panel or a rechargeable battery. Consider the battery life and charging options. Some models are coming with both solar and battery options.
Local Storage
Some models in the market have a provision to store the data locally in a micro SD card. If you want your data to be stored locally, check for this option.
Remote Access
Another important feature is “Remote access.” Always ensure that your selected camera offers remote access through a mobile or a laptop. Always check whether it is compatible with your smartphone, laptop, or desktop.
Video Quality
For video quality, resolution is important; go for 3 MP to 5 MP resolution for a clear and better vision.
Motion Detection
Motion detection and humanoid detection are very common in present-day technology. The system gives alerts by push notification or SMS during unnecessary movements detected in the premises.
Weather Conditions
In India, we have different weather conditions. Select the brand which is capable of withstanding with high and low temperatures, rainy and cloudy weather, and moist and dusty atmospheres. It is important to consider this when you use the camera, especially outdoors.
Compatibility
Already you must be having a smartphone and other devices to connect with the camera, so make sure the compatibility with your devices. Especially check for 4 G and Alexa support.
Advantages of Using Security Camera with SIM
Portability
Once the system is installed, it is very easy to move around. Good for the construction sites and temporary setups.
Easy Installation
Installation is very easy. No complicated wiring is involved. High-end technical assistance is not required.
No need for WiFi facility
WiFi facility or internet connectivity is not needed; the system is directly connects to 4G / 5G cellular networks through a SIM card.
Remote Accessibility
Provision for viewing video footage or instant alerts from anywhere in the globe.
Cost consideration
Since the technology does not use any wires and associated hardware, the cost is comparatively low. And good for temporary and small setups.
Power Independence
Most of the models use solar power and batteries for operation.
Security & Reliability
Cellular transmission is always secure. Moreover, it can provide backup surveillance whenever WiFi fails.
Limitations You Should Know
Sim Data cost
Consider the SIM data cost; if you start streaming videos, or even if you increase the resolution of the video, the data cost would rise drastically.
Cellular Network Traffic
During peak hours, the network traffic will be higher, and the signal may become weak, which may downgrade the camera performance.
Limited Bandwidth
Cellular networks are slower in uploads comparatively; hence, it can affect the quality of the video. It can create time delay, video lag, etc.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a SIM Camera
Always remember that purchasing the wrong SIM card camera (4G/LTE) may result in higher data consumption costs, unreliable data security, and poor connectivity. So be very careful while buying a SIM camera. Please consider the following mistakes and avoid them.
- Do not ignore signal strength and network coverage considerations.
- Do not underestimate power supply needs
- Do not miscalculate data plan requirements
- Do not mount cameras too high or too low on walls.
- Take care to protect the device when used outdoors.
- Do not use insecure, default, or common passwords
- Do not neglect local storage (SD card) options
- Do not choose the wrong camera angle (Wider or narrower).
- Do not ignore the camera compatibility. always check.
Conclusion
So far, we have explored the SIM-based camera, its features, advantages, and disadvantages.
As a final word, we say that the security camera with SIM is right for you, if you want to place it in a remote area, where there is no Wi-Fi or wired internet access is not possible.
Consider the discussed points and make use of them accordingly.