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Low-Power Image Capture Base on Cellular (LTE Cat 1)

Overview​

This guide describes how to achieve low-power image capture and transmission in outdoor environments using LTE Cat 1 technology. It is particularly suitable for scenarios without Wi-Fi coverage or gateway devices.

Key Features​

LTE Cat 1 is a 3GPP standard designed for IoT, offers the following key advantages:

  • Efficient Data Transmission：Supports up to 10 Mbps downlink and 5 Mbps uplink
  • Full Feature Support：including VoLTE and mobility, making it suitable for various IoT and M2M applications
  • Power Efficiency：Optimized for battery-powered, long-term deployments
  • Global Coverage：Leverages existing 4G LTE networks, providing widespread coverage in many regions.

Preparation​

Hardware​

  • NE100-MB01 Development Board
  • LTE Cat 1 Module
  • Activated 4G SIM Card

Cat1Module

Software​

1. Firmware​

2. Environment Requirements​

  • IDE Software：Visual Studio Code（v1.99.2+）
  • Development Framework：ESP-IDF Extension（v5.1.6）
  • Example Repository： lowpower_camera

Functionality Verification​

Using Precompiled Firmware​

1. Hardware Setup​

  1. Ensure the Cat 1 module is properly installed.
  2. Insert an activated 4G SIM card.

For More details please refer to the Hardware Connection Guide

2. Firmware flashing：​

Refer to the below to flash the firmware：

the System Flashing and Initialization Guide

3. Verify Network Status​

  1. Long-press the function button to enter Network configuration mode
  2. Access the Web UI at http://192.168.1.1
  3. Check the “Cellular Network” status panel

status panel1 status panel2

4. Data Transmission Test​

  1. Configure MQTT server parameters
  2. Test image capture and upload functionality

Refer to the complete testing procedure in： Quick Start Guide

Developing from Source​

1. Clone the repository using the following command​

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

2. Project setup​

Open the directory in VS Code：

Project Root Directory

3. Compilation and Deployment​

  1. Select the build button to compile the source code：

Showing build output

  1. Select the flash button to upload the generated firmware to the device：

screenshot showing flashing firmware

4. Verify Network and Data Transmission​

Same with using precompiled firmware

Notes​

SIM Card Management​

  • Ensure the SIM card has active 4G data service

Signal Quality Guidelines​

  • Good：RSSI > -85dBm
  • Fair：-85dBm > RSSI > -95dBm
  • Weak：RSSI < -95dBm

Development Tips：

  1. Use a serial tool to monitor AT command responses for troubleshooting
  2. Network registration may take 30–60 seconds, which is normal
  3. In low-signal environments, try repositioning the device for better coverage