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Using LTE in security?

The use of mobile GSM connectivity in the security sector is nothing new. In the early days this was primarily driven by the vehicle tracking industry, and later with applications such as GSM alarm modules, gate and access controllers as well as GSM modules connected to a wide range of security equipment.

The arrival of LTE and ‘real’ mobile broadband connectivity is however a game-changer. Average speeds of over 20 MB/s, together with affordable routers and good reliability and coverage has created a massive opportunity for new-age security applications.

The first sector that has seen rapid uptake in LTE use has been in CCTV and remote monitoring and surveillance applications. LTE is also used as a backup connectivity should fibre or ADSL breaks occur – its wireless nature makes it highly resistant to tampering. It can also be instantly deployed to sites.

But with new technology comes new challenges. The rate at which mobile data can be consumed on LTE means that good SIM-level control and tools to manage large numbers of deployed SIMs are becoming critical to avoid excessive costs and ‘bill shock’.

Traditional offerings and APN-based solutions are not always suited to high-data use devices. Using a SIM management platform to manage mobile data spend is critical to ensure costs don’t escalate to a point where business models are no longer feasible.

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