SIMs for metering and utilities.
Every site visit to read a meter or check a sensor costs more than a year of data. Data loggers and sub-meters with a ThingSIM send their readings in on their own, from pumping stations, plant rooms and tanks alike.
What the kit needs
Fixed place, known signal
A meter doesn't move, so check the signal where it is installed once. The SIM uses whichever Irish network is strongest at that spot.
A reading a day, or an hour
Meter reads are tiny. The smallest plan covers almost any logger; move up only for devices that send waveforms or images.
Years in the field
Loggers are installed and left. Billing starts when each SIM is switched on, or 30 days after despatch with an email 5 days before, so order stock close to the install.
How it connects
50 MB, Ireland multi-network, one SIM per logger.
Check coverage at the site first, especially in basements and in the border counties.
Questions people ask
What SIM card does a data logger need?
A data-only IoT SIM (also called an M2M SIM) in the size the logger's modem takes. Every ThingSIM is a trio card with mini, micro and nano sizes in one, or an eSIM.
How much data does a meter or logger use?
Very little. Meter reads are tiny, so the 50 MB plan covers almost any logger, from €0.99 a month. Move up only for devices that send waveforms or images.
Can I use a ThingSIM in an ESB smart meter?
No. ESB Networks' smart meters come with their own mobile connection. ThingSIM is for your own data loggers, sub-meters, energy monitors and telemetry.
Which network will a meter use?
Whichever of Vodafone, Three and eir is strongest where it is installed. A meter doesn't move, so check the signal at the site once, particularly in basements and plant rooms.
Can readings go to our SCADA or data platform privately?
Yes. Add a Private APN and an IPSec VPN and readings travel to your own network without touching the public internet.
Do SIMs held for later installs cost anything?
Not for the first 30 days. Billing for each SIM starts the day you switch it on in the portal, or automatically 30 days after we despatch it, and we email you at least 5 days before. Order stock a few weeks ahead of installs rather than months.
