There are a lot of ways to get data from solar monitoring and control hardware including 3G, 4G and Wi-Fi. Let’s run through the pro’s and cons and some of the differences.
3G
3G communication uses a particular band of the cellular network to communicate and has been around for decades in Australia.
The advantage of 3G was that it could penetrate obstacles and relatively long distances. However, the disadvantage is it can’t process much data and so was slower and less suitable for devices like smart phones.
Recently, the last of the 3G networks closed down, like 2G networks a few years ago. Older 3G devices had to replaced or upgraded to 4G. (check out of our special offer for upgrading if you were a Solar Analytics user)
4G
4G uses a different band of the cellular network compared to 3G and has also been around for decades in Australia. It doesn’t yet have the same coverage as 3G had, but is improving and covers more of Australia than any other network type.
The advantage of 4G is it can process a lot more data at higher speeds. The disadvantage is it can’t penetrate as well or travel as far as 3G, but more repeaters will ensure coverage is similar.
Using cellular for solar monitoring and control had the advantage of being available pretty much anywhere a mobile phone worked and is generally very reliable. The disadvantage is that cellular communications have a cost (around $80-$100 per year) and you can’t control if networks change or get turned off. How Wi-Fi Works
Wi-Fi works by sending radio waves from a router to your devices, allowing them to connect to the internet wirelessly. However, these waves lose strength each time they pass through obstacles like walls, floors, or furniture. Each wall weakens the signal a bit more, with thick or metal walls causing even more interference, which can lead to slower speeds or dropped connections. In homes with multiple walls or large distances between the router and the device, using a Wi-Fi extender can help boost the signal for better connectivity.
All CATCH Control hardware uses 2.4GHz Wi-Fi to monitor and control your solar system. This band is chosen because it penetrates obstructions better than 5GHz.A stable Wi-Fi signal of -60 dB or better is recommended to ensure reliable connectivity and performance. WiFi and CATCH Control: The Importance of a Stable Connection
Wi-Fi connectivity in CATCH Control not only provides essential monitoring and control capabilities, but it also allows the system to integrate with other Wi-Fi-enabled devices, like EV chargers, creating a simple and seamless home energy management setup. This single network connection keeps all your devices working together smoothly.
As Dynamic Exports roll out across Australia, a strong and stable Wi-Fi signal is critical. With Dynamic Exports, CATCH Control must receive signals from the network to adjust the inverter’s output. If the Wi-Fi signal drops, the system defaults to the lower, default export limit, which could be as low as 1.5 kW—significantly reducing solar output.
For those on a wholesale energy market, a reliable Wi-Fi connection becomes even more vital. It enables CATCH Control to respond to pricing signals, adjusting energy use to save costs. An unstable signal could lead to missed pricing updates, potentially costing you financially.
Even if you’re not on a wholesale market, consistent Wi-Fi is essential for uninterrupted data logging and remote access. Poor Wi-Fi can mean gaps in your energy data and lost control over your system, affecting both homeowners and installers. For optimal operation, ensure a strong Wi-Fi connection so CATCH Control can keep your energy management running reliably. If you have made changes to your Wi-Fi and need to reconnect your CATCH Control to the internet follow these steps https://youtu.be/Z74J9YjnclI?si=soQcw0HFitQxtLZL
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