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How and when should I use the 4G SIM Card feature on your IPCs?
Excellent question — this is a very practical feature that’s often overlooked. Here’s a full breakdown of how and when to use the 4G SIM card feature on a Maple Systems Panel PC, along with real-world examples:
Overview of what the 4G SIM Card Slot Does
The 4G SIM card slot on a Maple Systems Panel PC allows the unit to connect directly to a cellular network, just like a smartphone or tablet.
Instead of relying on Ethernet or Wi-Fi, the Panel PC can use mobile data (LTE/4G) to communicate with remote systems, transfer data, or provide remote access — ideal for mobile, outdoor, or isolated industrial environments.
How to Use It
- Insert a SIM Card
- Use a standard-size SIM card from your preferred cellular carrier (AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, etc.).
- The card goes into the SIM slot located on the back or side of the Panel PC (location may vary by model).
- Configure Cellular Settings
- In Windows or Linux, open Network Settings and enable the Cellular/Mobile Broadband option.
- Enter your APN (Access Point Name) details provided by your carrier to establish a connection.
- Once connected, you’ll see a mobile signal indicator and can use the data connection like any other network interface.
- Verify Network Access
- Test connectivity by opening a browser, pinging a remote server, or verifying connection to your cloud SCADA, MQTT broker, or VPN.
When to Use the 4G SIM Card Feature
You’ll want to use this feature in any situation where a wired or Wi-Fi connection isn’t practical or reliable, such as:
| Use Case | Description |
|---|---|
| Remote Industrial Sites | Ideal for oil fields, water treatment plants, or renewable energy sites where no Ethernet connection exists. |
| Mobile Equipment | Use in vehicles, trailers, or portable control systems that move between job sites. |
| Backup Communication | Set up 4G as a redundant failover connection if Ethernet or Wi-Fi goes down — ensuring continuous data collection and remote access. |
| IIoT Data Transmission | Send machine or sensor data to a cloud server or remote database using MQTT, OPC UA, or REST APIs over LTE. |
| Remote Maintenance & Monitoring | Enable technicians to access the Panel PC via VPN or remote desktop over the cellular network without needing on-site networking. |
Helpful Tips
- Use a static IP SIM or a VPN connection for secure remote access.
- Check your data plan — industrial applications that send frequent updates may require higher bandwidth.
- Consider signal strength and antenna placement — Maple’s Panel PCs often include SMA connectors for external antennas to boost reception.
Conclusion
You’d use the 4G SIM card feature when your Maple Systems Panel PC needs independent, reliable, and remote connectivity — especially in locations where Ethernet or Wi-Fi aren’t available or practical. It’s ideal for mobile, outdoor, or remote automation systems that require data logging, monitoring, or control through the cloud.
