IoT projects integrate GSM modules since these modules can send and receive data remotely. Also, these modules don’t have much dependencies; however, they have long-range and reliability.
What is the SIM800C GSM Module?
SIM800C is a GSM module that features a serial interface modem. This modem runs between the range of 3.4V to 4.4V. SIM800C is module designed for embedded applications where there is a need for remote data transfer. Also, this module operates on 850/900/1800/1900MHz. Also, it can transmit SMS, Voice Call with low energy consumption.
With the integration of AT commands, this module is controlled. SIM800C provides support to one SIM card interface. Also, this module has UART pins alongside RS232 Serial Protocol. These can be interface with various microcontrollers. The AT commands helps in accessing the functions of SIM800C module like receiving and sending calls.
The SIM800C module is powered by a DC power adapter. This module doesn’t support 4G as it only works on 2G. SIM800C price is 200 rupees per piece on IndiaMart.
Specification of SIM800C Module
- It operates on quad-band 850/900/1800/1900MHz
- GPRS multi-slot class 12/10
- It features GPRS mobile station class B
- It is compliant to GSM phase 2/2+
Class 4 (2 W @ 850/900MHz)
Class 1 (1 W @ 1800/1900MHz)
- The dimension of this module is 17.6*15.7*2.3mm
- Also, this module weighs 1.3g
- This module can be controlled through AT commands
- (3GPP TS 27.007, 27.005 and SIMCom enhanced AT Commands)
- The supply voltage range of SIM80C module is 3.4 ~ 4.4V
- It features low power consumption
- Operation temperature is within the range of -40℃ ~85℃
What is the SIM800C cellular module?
SIM800C cellular module is capable of making calls, sending email, and connecting to the internet. This module is specially designed to function like a mobile phone. However, the SIM800C cellular module requires external peripherals to operate well.
Integrating the SIM800C cellular module with an Arduino helps in developing several innovative projects. This module isn’t only ideal for maker projects, but it is also an affordable option for a cellular communication module.
The SIM800C Cellular communication module was produced by SimCom. SimCom provides other communication modules which includes the SIM868. The SIM800C is a multi-purpose cellular module that offers high performance.
Power Supply for SIM800C Cellular Module
SIM800C is usually powered by 3.7V, a standard for most cellular modules. It is not advisable to use 5V and 3.3V supply from Arduino. Furthermore, SIM800C is designed to integrate a power supply that ranges from 3.4V to 4.3V. Therefore, SIM800C module could become damaged if integrated with 5V.
The power source for the SIM800C module is the external 3.7V Li-on polymer battery. It is preferred to include a power decoupling circuit to the input supply. SIM800C price is around Rs.280.
Use Cases of SIM800C
You can embed the SIM800C cellular module in a hand-held or small products like wearables. Furthermore, you can design a remote wireless sensor or a simple home automation system. Since this module can detect the location of a device. You can have a rough estimate of location, although it isn’t as accurate as GPS.
SIM800C is a great choice for delivering 2G cellular functionality to production products and project makers. This is because of its small size and capability to interact through a simple UART interface. Therefore, this makes it ideal for use in various applications.
SIM800C is a great module which has the support of product developers which can help you find solutions to any technical problems. This module is widely available from various suppliers. Also, there are various development kits that can help you get started on the SIM800C module.
What is SIM800C Modem?
SIM800C modem is an SMT package that features 42 pads and offers all hardware interfaces between Customer’s boards and the module. This modem features a power saving technique which makes the consumption of current as low as 0.6mA in sleep mode.
The SIM800C modem features a USB interface that can be debugged, a full modem serial port, an audio channel that has a speaker output and a microphone input.
The SIMCOM modem has two different LEDS. LED1 represents the power status while LED2 is GPRS status GPRS status LED.
How to use SIM800C Module to Download a Simple Web Page from the Internet
The SIM800C module is capable of downloading a web page from the internet. All you need to do is to carry out several AT commands using the serial monitor. The first thing you do is to evaluate the quality of the signal. At times, you can’t connect to a network internet. In this case, you need to check the signal level by using the AT+CSQ command.
However, this is not necessary for creating a connection to the internet. It will only help you monitor the signal level. Use the command AT+CSQ to check the signal quality.
It is surprising to see the way this SIM800 module has the ability to download a specific web page. Also, you can achieve this via the execution of some AT commands via a serial monitor.
Pros of SIM800C
- The SIM800C is an easy-to- develop module and a great choice among product developers and hobbyists
- It has got extensive features such as internet access, voice calls, and SMS
- Its small size makes it suitable for use in wearable tech and portable devices
- SIM800C is an affordable module produced a Chinese manufacturer
- There are several communication modules offered by SIMCom, the producer of SIM800. This includes SIM868.
Cons of SIM800C
- SIM800C doesn’t work with 3G and 4G. It is an older 2G technology that features limited data speeds (GSM/GPRS). Also, this cellular communication module is almost being phased out.
Conclusion
The SIM800C is not the only smallest and highest performance cellular communication module produced by SIMCom. However, the SIM800C module offers several functions. Also, this module offers cellular functionality to developers. With the integration of AT commands, this module is controlled. SIM800C provides support to one SIM card interface. Also, this module has UART pins alongside RS232 Serial Protocol. These can be interface with various microcontrollers.
