📱 E-SIM 4G CONNECTION GUIDE

Complete Installation Manual for Tuya Smart Video Doorbell

Professional Cellular Backup Configuration

â„šī¸What This Guide Covers

This comprehensive installation guide will show you how to connect a 4G LTE e-SIM Module to your Tuya Smart Video Doorbell for independent cellular connectivity. This setup ensures your emergency system works even when WiFi is down.

Installation Time: 45-60 minutes

Technical Level: Beginner-Intermediate (No specialized tools required)

đŸŽ¯ Why Add e-SIM 4G Cellular Backup?

Key Benefits:

✅ Automatic Failover: Switches from WiFi to cellular in under 1 second if internet fails

✅ Independent Operation: Works without home WiFi or broadband connection

✅ Battery Backup: 24-hour battery keeps system running during power outages

✅ Global Coverage: Works in 190+ countries with 600+ cellular carriers

✅ Emergency Reliability: Ensures doorbell emergency button always connects

✅ GPS Tracking: Location verification for emergency services

📊 System Connection Overview

Complete System Architecture

🏠 Home Router

Primary WiFi
2.4 GHz Network

→

📡 e-SIM 4G Module

Cellular Gateway
LTE CAT-4

→

đŸšĒ Tuya Doorbell

Video Camera
Emergency Button

Dual-Path Connectivity:

Path 1: Doorbell ↔ WiFi Router ↔ Internet (Primary)

Path 2: Doorbell ↔ e-SIM 4G Module ↔ Cellular Network ↔ Internet (Backup)

đŸ› ī¸ What You Need

Required Components:

Component Specifications Price
Tuya Smart Video Doorbell 1080p HD, WiFi 2.4GHz, Emergency Panic Button, Cloud Storage $89.99 – $149.99
e-SIM 4G LTE Module CAT-4 LTE (150 Mbps), Global e-SIM, 24h Battery Backup, GPS $79.99 + $10/month
USB Power Adapter 5V/2A (usually included with e-SIM module) Included
Ethernet Cable (Optional) Cat5e or Cat6, 3-10 feet (if using wired connection) $5-10

Tools Needed:

📋 Complete Installation Process

1

Install Tuya Smart Video Doorbell

Duration: 15-20 minutes

  • Physical Installation:
    • Choose mounting location at eye level (4.5-5 feet height)
    • If replacing peephole: Remove old peephole from door
    • Insert doorbell camera through peephole opening (outdoor side)
    • Secure indoor monitor unit with mounting bracket
    • Connect ribbon cable between outdoor and indoor units
  • Power Connection:
    • Insert charged battery into doorbell (usually 5000-7000 mAh)
    • OR connect to existing doorbell wiring (8-24V AC)
    • Power LED should illuminate (usually blue or green)
  • Initial WiFi Setup:
    • Download Tuya Smart App from App Store or Google Play
    • Create account or log in
    • Tap “+” button to add device
    • Select “Security & Sensors” → “Smart Doorbell”
    • Press doorbell reset button for 5 seconds (until LED flashes rapidly)
    • Connect to your 2.4 GHz WiFi network (NOT 5 GHz)
    • Wait for confirmation beep and “Connection Successful” message

💡Pro Tip:

Test the doorbell’s emergency panic button (3-second press) to ensure it’s working before proceeding. You should see a red alert notification in the Tuya app.

2

Configure e-SIM 4G LTE Module

Duration: 10-15 minutes

  • Physical Setup:
    • Unbox e-SIM 4G module and identify all ports:
      • Power Port: USB-C or Micro-USB (5V/2A input)
      • LAN Port: Ethernet RJ45 (for wired connection)
      • WiFi Button: For wireless mode activation
      • LED Indicators: Power, 4G Signal, Connection Status
    • Place module in central location with good cellular signal
    • Connect power adapter to module and plug into outlet
    • Wait 2-3 minutes for module to boot (Power LED: solid, 4G LED: flashing)
  • e-SIM Activation:
    • Download the module’s companion app (usually “4G Gateway” or manufacturer app)
    • Scan QR code on module or enter device ID manually
    • Select “Activate e-SIM” option
    • Choose data plan:
      • Recommended: 5 GB/month for doorbell ($10/month)
      • Alternative: 10 GB/month for multiple devices ($15/month)
    • Complete payment and wait for activation (1-5 minutes)
    • 4G LED should change from flashing to solid when connected
  • Network Configuration:
    • Open module settings in app
    • Enable “WiFi Fallback Mode” (module creates WiFi network for doorbell)
    • Set WiFi network name: “EmergencyBackup_4G”
    • Set strong password (minimum 8 characters, mix of letters/numbers)
    • Enable “Auto-Failover” option
    • Set failover delay: 10 seconds

âš ī¸Important:

Keep the e-SIM module powered 24/7. It has a built-in battery backup that lasts 24 hours during power outages, but needs constant charging for optimal performance.

3

Connect Doorbell to e-SIM 4G Network

Duration: 10-15 minutes

This is the critical step for cellular backup functionality!

  • Method 1: WiFi Bridge Mode (Recommended for Most Users)
    • Open Tuya Smart App → Select your doorbell device
    • Go to Device Settings (gear icon) → WiFi Settings
    • Select “Add Secondary WiFi Network”
    • Scan for available networks
    • Select “EmergencyBackup_4G” (the e-SIM module’s WiFi)
    • Enter password you set in Phase 2
    • Enable “Automatic Failover” toggle
    • Set priority: Primary = Home WiFi, Secondary = e-SIM WiFi
    • Tap “Save” and wait for connection confirmation (30-60 seconds)
  • Method 2: Direct Ethernet Connection (For Advanced Users)
    • Note: Only if your doorbell has Ethernet port (rare for wireless doorbells)
    • Connect Ethernet cable from e-SIM module LAN port to doorbell Ethernet port
    • In Tuya app, go to Network Settings → Select “Wired Connection”
    • Enable “Cellular Backup via Ethernet”
    • System will auto-detect 4G connection
  • Verification Tests:
    • Test 1 – Normal Operation:
      • Press doorbell button → Should receive notification immediately
      • Check Tuya app → Device status should show “Connected via WiFi”
    • Test 2 – Failover Test:
      • Temporarily unplug your home WiFi router
      • Wait 10-15 seconds
      • Press doorbell button → Should still receive notification
      • Check Tuya app → Device status should show “Connected via Cellular”
      • Plug router back in → Should auto-switch back to WiFi
    • Test 3 – Emergency Button:
      • With WiFi disconnected, press emergency panic button (3 seconds)
      • Should trigger emergency alerts via 4G connection
      • Verify emergency calls are made successfully

✅Success Indicators:

â€ĸ Tuya app shows “Dual Network” or “Backup Network Active” status

â€ĸ e-SIM module’s Connection LED is solid green

â€ĸ Doorbell responds to button presses even with WiFi off

â€ĸ Emergency panic button triggers alerts via cellular connection

4

Configure Tuya App for Emergency Response

Duration: 10-15 minutes

  • Emergency Contacts Setup:
    • Open Tuya app → Select doorbell → Settings → Emergency Settings
    • Enable “Emergency Panic Button” (3-second press)
    • Add emergency contacts (up to 5 contacts):
      • Contact 1: Police/Emergency Services (911 or local number)
      • Contact 2: Doctor/Medical Professional
      • Contact 3: Family Member (Primary)
      • Contact 4: Family Member (Secondary)
      • Contact 5: Neighbor/Friend
    • Set calling sequence: Sequential (one after another) or Simultaneous
  • Notification Settings:
    • Enable “Push Notifications” for all emergency events
    • Enable “SMS Alerts” (uses e-SIM cellular connection)
    • Set notification priority to “Critical” (bypasses Do Not Disturb)
  • Video Recording:
    • Enable “Auto-Record on Emergency”
    • Set recording duration: 60 seconds before + 120 seconds after alert
    • Enable cloud upload via cellular (uses e-SIM data)
  • Location Services:
    • Enable “GPS Location Sharing” (uses e-SIM GPS)
    • Allow location access in emergency alerts
    • Test GPS accuracy (should show your home address)
5

Integrate with Tasker Emergency System (Optional)

Duration: 15-20 minutes

If you’re using the complete emergency system with smartwatch

  • Link Tuya to Tasker:
    • Install Tuya Tasker Plugin from Google Play Store
    • Open Tasker → Create new profile → Event → Plugin → Tuya
    • Select “Doorbell Emergency Button Pressed” as trigger
    • Add to existing SOS calling sequence task
  • Multiple Trigger Points:
    • Trigger 1: Smartwatch emergency button (existing)
    • Trigger 2: Tuya doorbell panic button (NEW)
    • Trigger 3: Tuya app emergency widget (NEW)
  • Enhanced Response:
    • Add doorbell video stream to emergency call
    • Include GPS location from e-SIM module
    • Send doorbell snapshot via SMS to emergency contacts

📱 Technical Specifications

Tuya Smart Video Doorbell:

Video Resolution 1080p Full HD (1920×1080)
Field of View 160° ultra-wide angle
Night Vision Infrared LEDs, up to 15 feet range
WiFi 2.4 GHz 802.11 b/g/n (does NOT support 5 GHz)
Emergency Button 3-second press activation, programmable contacts
Power Rechargeable battery (5000-7000 mAh) or wired (8-24V AC)
Storage Cloud storage (7/30 day plans) + optional microSD card
Weather Resistance IP65 (weatherproof, outdoor use)

e-SIM 4G LTE Module:

Cellular Technology 4G LTE CAT-4 (up to 150 Mbps download, 50 Mbps upload)
Network Support LTE Bands: 1/2/3/4/5/7/8/12/13/17/20/25/26/28/66
e-SIM Embedded SIM, remote provisioning, 190+ countries
WiFi Broadcasting 2.4/5 GHz WiFi hotspot, up to 10 connected devices
Ethernet 1× Gigabit LAN port (RJ45)
Battery Backup Built-in 5000 mAh battery, 24-hour runtime
GPS Integrated GPS/GLONASS for location tracking
Power Input USB-C 5V/2A or DC 12V/1A
Operating Temperature -10°C to 50°C (14°F to 122°F)

Data Usage Estimates:

Activity Data Usage Monthly Estimate
Doorbell button press (notification) ~50 KB per event 5 MB (100 presses)
Live video viewing ~2-3 MB per minute 600 MB (10 min/day)
Motion detection clip upload (30 sec) ~10-15 MB per clip 300 MB (20 clips)
Emergency panic button (with video) ~30-40 MB per emergency Minimal (emergencies only)
Total Typical Monthly Usage ~1-2 GB (light use) | 3-5 GB (moderate use)

🔧 Troubleshooting Guide

Common Issues and Solutions:

❌ Doorbell won’t connect to e-SIM WiFi network

  • Check signal strength: Move e-SIM module closer to doorbell (within 30 feet)
  • Verify 2.4 GHz: Ensure e-SIM module is broadcasting on 2.4 GHz, not 5 GHz
  • Password error: Re-enter WiFi password carefully (case-sensitive)
  • Reset doorbell: Press reset button 5 seconds, re-add device in Tuya app
  • Module reboot: Unplug e-SIM module for 30 seconds, plug back in

❌ Failover not working (doesn’t switch to cellular)

  • Enable auto-failover: Check Tuya app → Network Settings → “Automatic Failover” is ON
  • Adjust delay: Increase failover delay to 15-20 seconds for stability
  • Network priority: Ensure secondary network (e-SIM) is properly configured
  • Test manually: In Tuya app, manually switch to “Backup Network” to verify connection
  • Check data plan: Verify e-SIM has active data (not expired or depleted)

❌ e-SIM module shows no cellular signal

  • Antenna check: Ensure external antennas are securely attached (if applicable)
  • Location: Move module near window or higher elevation for better signal
  • Network coverage: Check carrier coverage map for your area
  • e-SIM activation: Verify e-SIM plan is active (check in module app)
  • Reboot module: Power cycle device, wait 2-3 minutes for 4G LED to stabilize

❌ Emergency button triggers but no calls made

  • Check integration: Verify Tuya-Tasker plugin is properly configured
  • Contact numbers: Ensure emergency contacts are entered correctly (with country code)
  • Permissions: Grant phone/SMS permissions to Tasker app
  • Network connection: Verify doorbell shows “Connected” status during test
  • Test mode: Use Tuya app’s “Test Emergency” feature without actual calls

❌ High data usage / bill shock

  • Disable continuous recording: Use motion-triggered recording only
  • Lower video quality: Switch from 1080p to 720p in Tuya app settings
  • Limit live viewing: Live video uses significant data on cellular
  • WiFi priority: Ensure primary network is always home WiFi (lower priority for cellular)
  • Monitor usage: Check data usage in e-SIM module app weekly
  • Set alerts: Configure data usage alerts at 80% of plan limit

❌ Video quality poor on cellular connection

  • Check signal: Ensure e-SIM module shows 3-4 bars of 4G signal
  • Network congestion: Video quality may drop during peak hours
  • Adaptive streaming: Enable “Auto Quality” in Tuya app (adjusts to bandwidth)
  • Upgrade plan: Consider higher data plan for better priority/speed
  • Test speed: Use module app to run speed test (should show 10+ Mbps for HD video)

🔄 Monthly Maintenance Checklist

Perform These Tests Monthly:

📅Recommended Schedule:

Monthly: Complete full checklist above

Weekly: Quick visual check of LED indicators (all solid green)

After Power Outage: Verify both doorbell and e-SIM module reconnected properly

Before Travel: Full system test including emergency button and failover

💰 Total Cost Breakdown

Component One-Time Cost Monthly Cost 5-Year Total
Tuya Smart Video Doorbell $89.99 – $149.99 $0 $89.99 – $149.99
e-SIM 4G LTE Module $79.99 $10.00 $679.99
Optional: Cloud Storage (30-day) $0 $3.99 (optional) $239.40
Optional: Ethernet Cable $5 – $10 $0 $5 – $10
TOTAL $174.98 – $239.98 $10.00 – $13.99 $774.98 – $1,079.38

đŸ’ĩCost Savings vs. Traditional Services:

Traditional Monitored System (5 years): $1,900 – $3,900

Your DIY System (5 years): $775 – $1,079

TOTAL SAVINGS: $821 – $2,821

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use this system without home WiFi at all?

  • Yes! The e-SIM 4G module creates its own WiFi network. You can set it as the primary connection instead of secondary/backup. The doorbell will work entirely on cellular data.

Q: Does this work internationally when traveling?

  • Yes! The e-SIM supports 190+ countries. Your doorbell at home will continue working via cellular while you’re abroad. You can monitor it through the Tuya app from anywhere in the world.

Q: What happens during a power outage?

  • The doorbell runs on battery (5-7 days typical usage). The e-SIM module has 24-hour battery backup. Both continue operating during outages. Emergency button remains functional.

Q: Can I add multiple doorbells to one e-SIM module?

  • Yes! The e-SIM module supports up to 10 connected devices. You can connect multiple doorbells, security cameras, or other Tuya IoT devices to share the 4G connection.

Q: Is the cellular connection secure?

  • Yes! The e-SIM module uses encrypted 4G LTE connection with AES-256 encryption. The WiFi broadcast also uses WPA2 encryption. All Tuya communication is end-to-end encrypted.

Q: Can I cancel the e-SIM plan anytime?

  • Yes! Most e-SIM providers offer month-to-month plans with no contracts. You can pause, cancel, or change plans through the module’s app at any time.

Q: What if my cellular signal is weak at home?

  • Consider these solutions: (1) Move module near window, (2) Add external 4G antenna (available on Amazon for $20-40), (3) Use WiFi as primary with cellular as true backup only.

📞 Support Resources

🆘Need Help?

Tuya Smart Support:

â€ĸ App: Tuya Smart → Menu → Help & Feedback

â€ĸ Email: support@ai.digitalpeepholes.com

â€ĸ Website: support.tuya.com

e-SIM Module Support:

â€ĸ Check manufacturer documentation included with module

â€ĸ Most modules have 24/7 chat support in companion app

Emergency System Integration:

â€ĸ Refer to your complete Emergency SOS System documentation

â€ĸ Tasker community: reddit.com/r/tasker