Texecom SmartCom Pro 4G (CEP-0001) | Dual Path Communicator | Wi-Fi/LAN & 4G | Universal Compatibility

FAQs

When should I specify the SmartCom Pro 4G instead of the standard Pro model?

Choose the Pro 4G whenever your installation requires higher transmission categories (DP1-DP4) under EN 50136, when the customer demands guaranteed uptime regardless of broadband failures, or when you’re working in locations where network reliability is questionable. Commercial premises, high-value residential properties, remote locations, and any installation where losing alarm monitoring connectivity could have serious consequences all warrant the dual-path approach. The 4G backup activates automatically, so your customers won’t even know their broadband dropped—they’ll just know their alarm system never stopped working.

How does the automatic failover between Ethernet/Wi-Fi and 4G actually work?

The SmartCom Pro 4G continuously monitors the primary path (Ethernet or Wi-Fi) connection to the ARC via Texecom Monitor. If this connection fails for any reason—broadband outage, router failure, network congestion—the device automatically switches to the 4G backup path within seconds, maintaining uninterrupted alarm signalling. Once the primary path is restored and stable, the communicator seamlessly returns to using it as the preferred route. This all happens without any manual intervention or customer awareness, and you can monitor path status remotely through Texecom Cloud.

Do I need to manage the SIM or arrange a mobile data contract?

No, the SmartCom Pro 4G comes with pre-configured roaming eSIMs that connect to Texecom’s private APN, so there’s no SIM management, no separate mobile contracts to arrange, and no additional data charges to explain to customers. The multi-profile SIM technology automatically selects between two world roaming profiles across different mobile network operators, giving you triple-layer protection without the administrative headache. This is all included in the Texecom Monitor service subscription, making your quoting and ongoing support considerably simpler.

What’s the difference between the transmission categories SP2 and DP1-DP4 that this model supports?

SP2 (Single Path Category 2) applies when you’re using just one communication path—either Ethernet/Wi-Fi OR 4G, not both as backup. DP1 through DP4 (Dual Path Categories) apply when you configure the device to use both paths with automatic failover, which is the Pro 4G’s intended configuration. DP1 is the entry level, whilst DP4 offers the highest grade of dual-path reliability with the strictest fault detection and switching requirements. The category you achieve depends on how you configure polling intervals and fault detection parameters in Texecom Monitor, giving you flexibility to match the grade to the risk level and customer requirements.

Will the 4G connectivity work everywhere in the UK, or are there coverage limitations?

The Pro 4G supports all UK 4G LTE bands (B1, B3, B7, B8, B20, B28A) and features enhanced signal performance specifically designed for alarm monitoring applications. The multi-profile SIM connects across multiple mobile network operators, significantly improving your chances of reliable coverage even in challenging locations. That said, whilst 4G coverage across the UK is extensive, there are still areas—particularly rural locations, certain buildings with thick walls, or basements—where signal strength may be limited. The included high-performance antenna helps considerably, and you can specify the optional external antenna (JAQ-0003) with 10-metre cable for installations where you need to position the antenna for optimal signal reception.

How much more power does the 4G model consume compared to the standard Pro?

The SmartCom Pro 4G typically draws 120mA at 12V DC compared to 95mA for the standard model, with peak consumption reaching 450mA (versus 150mA) when the 4G modem is actively transmitting. This increased power demand is completely manageable within standard alarm panel power supplies, but it’s worth factoring into your power budget calculations, particularly on larger systems. The 4G modem only draws significant power during active transmission, spending most of its time in a lower-power polling state, so the real-world impact on overall system power consumption remains modest.

Can I monitor which path is currently active and get alerts if failover occurs?

Yes, through Texecom Cloud you can view the current active communication path, monitor signal strength, review failover history, and configure alerts for when path switching occurs. This visibility is invaluable both for troubleshooting and for demonstrating system reliability to customers. If you notice frequent failovers, it flags an underlying issue with the customer’s primary network that you can address proactively before it becomes a complaint. This remote monitoring capability transforms your service offering from reactive firefighting to proactive system management.