As a camper, we find it difficult to rely solely on wi-fi when on the go, as this is often weak or even non-existent in remote areas. Then one has to decide to park, for example, in front of a restaurant or hope that the campsite or place is equipped with more or less correct wi-fi. Especially in campsites, connection performance often degrades as you move away from the transmitter (router) and reception is good at reception only. To take advantage of Wi-fi, you have to connect with a password and possibly put your hand in your pocket.
As campers , we want to benefit from an autonomous Internet connection that works independently of any wi-fi network, both at the campsite and on the field, on the mountain and the sea, or in cities, even along the road!
1. LTE/wi-fi hotspot
The cornerstone of any internet coverage is the LTE/wi-fi hotspot. A router that allows us to set up our own wi-fi network in our caravan and catch mobile Internet with fast LTE (4G) technology. If the latter is not yet available in some countries, a quality router will switch to UMTS (3G) or Edge (2G). Depending on the equipment, such a router has at least one SIM card slot, a small display, an integrated battery, and ports for antennas if the signal also needs to be received from outside the caravan. In addition to receiving LTE data, this router can also connect to the public local Wi-Fi network of a city, restaurant or campground. The router can also amplify received signals, making it an ideal solution on the go.
2. LTE/wi-fi antenna
Why an extra LTE/wi-fi antenna? In many regions, such a router will be sufficient to guarantee optimum reception. However, in an RV, the router's reception capacity is limited by the outer walls, not to mention that in rural areas or campsites the signal can be weak. There are high performance antennas that can be mounted on the roof to enjoy maximum signal reception anytime, anywhere. These antennas have the effect of maximizing a received signal and transmitting it to the router. As LTE frequencies abroad may vary, a dual-band antenna capable of receiving multiple LTE frequencies should be used. At the same time, such an antenna must be able to receive a wi-fi signal. Antennas that combine the two functions are called hybrids.
3. LTE plan
To access LTE data through our router, we need a SIM card, preferably with an LTE plan. You will find one from your Turkish mobile operator offering a variety of relevant subscriptions from which you can choose the one that suits you. It should be noted that it is worth comparing the prices of different operators, because the offers are very diverse, especially with regard to roaming fees abroad. Unlike Turkey, EU countries and Liechtenstein, Norway and Iceland offer a "like at home" rate. For example, with a Sim card (contract or prepaid) purchased in Liechtenstein or Germany, it is possible to make calls in all EU countries without paying roaming fees. As mobile phone prices vary within the EU, and also to avoid abuse, operators must use "excessive" There is a "fair use" clause that allows them to charge a premium for use. It may therefore be a more advantageous alternative to purchase a SIM card (“local prepaid Internet card”) in that country. Especially if you are traveling outside the EU. Thanks to the above-mentioned technology, purchased from a Swiss SIM card or abroad, it is possible to catch the Internet even in the most remote areas and in poor reception, so that nothing can stop you from surfing. time". Thanks to the above-mentioned technology, purchased from a Swiss SIM card or abroad, it is possible to catch the Internet even in the most remote areas and in poor reception, so that nothing can stop you from surfing. time". Thanks to the above-mentioned technology, purchased from a Swiss SIM card or abroad, it is possible to catch the Internet even in the most remote areas and in poor reception, so that nothing can stop you from surfing. time".
Routers and antennas – what is recommended?
For a layman about routers and antennas, the following questions arise:
Which devices should I buy?
Preferably where can I buy these devices?
How much are they holding?
Can I install these devices myself or should I hire a professional?
İnternetgives many answers to these questions. Some Swiss companies specializing in camping have already looked into the matter. For campers who were not born mechanics or did not have enough time, they offer complete custom solutions consisting of a router and a roof antenna, including mounting. Note For a layman in routers and antennas, questions arise: it is also possible to create a personal access point with the help of a modern high-performance smartphone; this can be uptake, even faster, under good conditions. a router. On the other hand, installing an outdoor antenna and a router is worth the effort when you move into areas with weaker reception and/or several people/devices want to access their individual wi-fi network. The investment is not very large and therefore makes it possible to do without an expensive satellite installation.
internet television
Let's say we now have a great technical solution in the trailer and therefore flawless Internet access. In this case, how do I access live TV, watch movies from TV channels' media libraries or videos from certain YouTube channels or other providers? You can use a PC, laptop or tablet to do this. If you prefer a large screen with excellent resolution, buy a "Smart TV" and install it in the caravan in the place provided for this purpose. Smart TV, a combination of TV and PC, has a built-in network connection and can also connect to the Internet wirelessly using wi-fi.
What should I pay particular attention to when buying a Smart TV?
Smart TV must be compatible with 12 V power supply so that it can be used even when there is no 230 V terrestrial network.
Built-in Bluetooth: should also support audio output. It is enough to connect a Bluetooth keyboard as well as external Bluetooth speakers of excellent quality for sound output.
USB interface: to enable USB recording with a USB stick or USB hard disk - whether record TV programs.
HDMI ARC and CEC interface: The HDMI ARC interface allows you to connect a bar, while the CEC interface allows all devices to be controlled by remote control.
Built-in triple tuner: to also receive “traditional” television via DVB-T (antenna), DVB-C (cable) or DVB-S (satellite). Today, this functionality is standard for a Smart TV.
CI+ interface: houses the Viaccess module for the SRF subscription card.
Well-stocked specialist retailers offer interesting Smart TVs in sizes 19 to 40 inches or larger that are perfectly suited for caravans.
Solution
Today, it is possible to access the internet at any time and from anywhere, even while on the move, and to experience the same comfort as at home in your caravan, provided you have the appropriate technological equipment.