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Low-Power Capture Based on Cellular

Overview​

This solution demonstrates how to utilize LTE Cat 1 technology for low-power image capture and transmission in outdoor environments, specifically suitable for applications without WiFi coverage and lacking gateway devices.

Technical Background​

LTE Cat 1 is a communication standard designed by 3GPP for the Internet of Things (IoT), featuring the following core advantages:

  • Efficient Transmission: Supports up to 10 Mbps downlink and 5 Mbps uplink speeds
  • Full Functionality: Includes mobility management and VoLTE voice communication capabilities
  • Energy Efficiency: Optimized power consumption, suitable for long-term battery-powered devices
  • Wide Coverage: Can directly access existing 4G network infrastructure, facilitating easy deployment

Development Preparation​

Hardware Requirements​

  • Main Control Unit: Core development board
  • Communication Module: LTE Cat 1 wireless module
  • Network Access: Activated 4G SIM card

Cat1 Module Hardware Connection Diagram

Software Resources​

1. Quick Experience Firmware​

2. Development Environment Configuration​

  • IDE Tool: Visual Studio Code (v1.99.2+)
  • Development Framework: ESP-IDF plugin (v5.1.6)
  • Sample Code Repository: lowpower_camera

Function Verification​

Precompiled Firmware Usage Guide​

1. Hardware Preparation​

  1. Properly install the Cat1 communication module
  2. Insert an activated 4G SIM card

For detailed connection instructions, refer to: Hardware Connection Guide

2. Firmware Flashing​

Follow the standard flashing process: System Flashing and Initialization Guide

3. Network Status Verification​

  1. Short press the function key to enter configuration mode
  2. Access the device's web management interface (http://192.168.1.1)
  3. Check the "Cellular Network" status information

Network Status Display Interface 1 Network Status Display Interface 2

4. Data Transmission Test​

  1. Configure MQTT server connection parameters
  2. Perform test capture and image upload functionality

For the complete operation guide, refer to: Quick Start Guide

Source Code Development Verification Process​

1. Obtain the Code Repository​

git clone https://github.com/camthink-ai/lowpower_camera.git

2. Project Configuration​

Open the project directory with VS Code:

Project Directory Structure

3. Compilation and Deployment​

  1. Execute project compilation:

Compilation Process

  1. Flash the generated firmware:

Firmware Flashing Interface

4. Function Verification​

Network status check and data transmission test methods are the same as in the precompiled firmware section.

Notes​

SIM Card Management​

  • Ensure the SIM card has an active 4G data service

Signal Quality Assessment​

  • Excellent Signal: RSSI > -85 dBm
  • Moderate Signal: -85 dBm > RSSI > -95 dBm
  • Weak Signal: RSSI < -95 dBm

Development Suggestions:

  1. Use a serial tool to monitor AT command interactions to quickly troubleshoot communication issues
  2. The network registration process typically takes 30-60 seconds, which is normal
  3. Adjust the device position in weak signal environments