Cellular
The Cellular feature provides mobile network connectivity for AppBlocks devices through 4G LTE, 3G, or 2G cellular modems. This enables internet access in locations without WiFi infrastructure.
Overview
Cellular connectivity is ideal for:
- Remote locations without WiFi
- Mobile and vehicle-based applications
- Backup connectivity when WiFi fails
- Wide-area IoT deployments
- Industrial outdoor installations
Configuration
Configure cellular connection with these properties:
- APN: Access Point Name from your carrier
- Username: APN authentication username (if required)
- Password: APN authentication password (if required)
- PIN: SIM card PIN code (if enabled)
SIM Card Setup
Before using cellular connectivity:
- Insert activated SIM card with data plan
- Note the APN settings from your carrier
- Disable SIM PIN or configure PIN in settings
- Verify carrier coverage in deployment area
Connection Failover
Configure automatic failover between WiFi and Cellular:
- Primary: WiFi, Backup: Cellular
- Primary: Cellular, Backup: WiFi
- Load balancing between connections
Use the On Network Changed block to handle connection changes in your application.
Power Considerations
Cellular modems consume more power than WiFi:
- Plan for adequate power supply
- Implement data batching to reduce active time
Linking to Settings
Cellular properties can be linked to settings, allowing:
- Multi-region deployments with different carriers
- Field configuration without firmware updates
- Secure credential management
Signal Strength
Monitor cellular signal strength:
- RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indicator)
- Connection quality indicators
- Network registration status
Poor signal can cause:
- Connection failures
- Slow data transfer
- Increased power consumption
Related Features
- WiFi: Wireless LAN connectivity
- Network: General network configuration
- MQTT: Cloud messaging
- SNTP: Time synchronization
SMS Support
Some cellular modems support SMS messaging:
- Send SMS notifications
- Receive SMS commands
- Use as backup control channel
Use the SMS Send and SMS Receive blocks for SMS functionality.
Use Cases
Common cellular deployment scenarios:
- Agricultural monitoring in remote farms
- Vehicle tracking and fleet management
- Remote environmental monitoring
- Pipeline and utility monitoring
- Backup connectivity for critical systems
Troubleshooting
Common cellular issues:
- Cannot connect: Verify APN settings and SIM activation
- No data: Check data plan and carrier account status
- Intermittent connection: Check signal strength and antenna
- High latency: Normal for cellular, consider application design