Auto Electronic's Project the Global Car Tracking System

(http://cdn.instructables.com/FM4/ES2U/HNVJ0ORK/FM4ES2UHNVJ0ORK.LARGE.jpg)

(http://cdn.instructables.com/FVS/RA8M/HO22Z7FJ/FVSRA8MHO22Z7FJ.LARGE.jpg)

About This Instructable

License:158,826 views

1,216 favorites

(/member/Jayvis+Vineet+Gonsalves/)

Jayvis VineetGonsalves (/member/Jayvis+Vineet+Gonsalves/

Follow 173

(/id/Hercules-The-Motion-Controlled-Android-Robot)

(/id/Super-Simple-Automated-LED-Wardrobe-Lights)

More by Jayvis Vineet Gonsalves

Athena: The Global Car Tracking System(3D Images) by Jayvis Vineet Gonsalves(/member/Jayvis+Vineet+Gonsalves/)

(/contest/micro2013/) (/contest/hardwarehacking/)

+ Collection

Download (/id/Athena-The-Global-Car-Tracking-System/?download=pdf) 7 Steps

Favorite

(/id/Athena-The-Global-Car-Tracking-System/)

(/)

(/)

Explore (/tag/type-id/) Create (/about/submit.jsp) Contests (/contest/) Community (/community/)Login (/you/)

Athena: The Global Car Tracking System(3D Images) http://www.instructables.com/id/Athena-The-Global-Car...

1 of 23 1/23/2014 4:21 PM

Bring out your 3D glasses and enjoy viewing in a no vel way! I have addeda new dimension to my instructable. If you do not h ave 3D glasses, thenyou can make one yourself. The following link expla ins how to make 3Dglasses ( link (http://www.wikihow.com/Make-3D-Glas ses-With-Home-Supplies) ).

Please Note: This instructable contains 3D images which are best viewed withRed and Cyan 3D Glasses. However, for those of you who do not have 3Dglasses, this instructable also contains 2D images.

Every year about 700,000 vehicles get stolen in US. In fact, a car is stolen every45 seconds.

We all love our cars and whether it is a roaring Lamborghini or a purring Prius,we are attached to it and wish that it never gets stolen.

I am very attached to my family car and take lots of precaution that I do not parkmy car in secluded places or double check that I always lock my car when I parkit anywhere and always carry my car keys with me. However, I am still worriedwhether my car is safe. In order to get rid of these genuine worries, I decided todesign my own low cost car tracking system.

In this instructable, I have explained the process of building one's very ownGlobal Car Tracking System -'Athena' - for a cost of just 100$. The steps forbuilding this device is very simple and explained in a lucid manner. The skillsrequired for you to build this is minimum (Basic knowledge about electronics andthe Arduino IDE).

I have christened this device by the name 'Athena' because Athena is the GreekGoddess of navigation.

So what are we waiting for.....let's get started.......

Related

See More (/tag/type-id/?q=)

(http://cdn.instructables.com/FWM/G9NI/HNVJ0OSM/FWMG9NIHNVJ0OSM.LARGE.jpg)

(http://cdn.instructables.com/FD5/3D6X/HNVJ0OS0/FD53D6XHNVJ0OS0.LARGE.jpg)

(http://cdn.instructables.com/FRD/53E5/HO22Z7F9/FRD53E5HO22Z7F9.LARGE.jpg)

(http://cdn.instructables.com/FJ0/VV3Z/HO22Z7FG/FJ0VV3ZHO22Z7FG.LARGE.jpg)

Show All 8 Images

(/id/DIY-Full-LED-600Lumens-Headlight)

car (/tag/type-id/category-technology

/keyword-car/)

tracking (/tag/type-id/category-technology

/keyword-tracking/)

gsm (/tag/type-id/category-technology

/keyword-gsm/)

gps (/tag/type-id/category-technology

/keyword-gps/)

module (/tag/type-id/category-technology

/keyword-module/)

sd card (/tag/type-id/category-technology

/keyword-sd card/)

logger (/tag/type-id/category-technology

/keyword-logger/)

lost (/tag/type-id/category-technology/keyword-

lost/)

found (/tag/type-id/category-technology

/keyword-found/)

bike (/tag/type-id/category-technology/keyword-

bike/)

Tags:

Geo Data Logger:Arduino+GPS+SD+Accelerometerto log, time-stamp, andgeo-tag sensor data(/id/Geo-Data-Logger-Track your route! (usingarduino, microSD cardshield, and GPS) (/id/Track-your-route-using-arduino-microSD-card-shi/ )Arduino GPS Datalogger(/id/Arduino-GPS-Datalogger/)by jonnyboy323 (/member

Version 2.0 ArduinoControlled Car TrackingSystem based on SMS(/id/Version-20-Arduino-Controlled-Car-Tracking-Darkness Map DataCollection Device(/id/Darkness-Map-Data-Collection-Device/)


2 of 23 1/23/2014 4:21 PM

Step 1: Parts Needed:

The following is a list of parts needed to build 'Athena' :-

Supplies :Arduino Uno1.Arduino GSM Shield (I have used a SIM900 GSM/GPRS Shield Module)2.GPS Module3.Adapter Plug for powering the Arduino4.4pcs of LM7805 IC5.PCB6.Wires7.

(http://cdn.instructables.com/FAJ/W0C4/HNVJ0P3S/FAJW0C4HNVJ0P3S.LARGE.jpg)

(http://cdn.instructables.com/F92/66VI/HNVJ0P3Y/F9266VIHNVJ0P3Y.LARGE.jpg)

(http://cdn.instructables.com/F9X/OAFT/HO22Z8C3/F9XOAFTHO22Z8C3.LARGE.jpg)

(http://cdn.instructables.com/F8F/D9F7/HNVJ0P45/F8FD9F7HNVJ0P45.LARGE.jpg)

(http://cdn.instructables.com/FU5/UZ50/HO22Z89W/FU5UZ50HO22Z89W.LARGE.jpg)

Show All 12 Images


3 of 23 1/23/2014 4:21 PM

Male Header Pins8.Female Header Pins9.Project Enclosure10.

Tools :Soldering Iron1.Solder2.Soldering Wax3.Drill4.Hacksaw5.

Step 2: The Circuit: Voltage Regulator Circuit

The Arduino and GSM shield operate at voltages between 5 volts and 12 volts.Although the car has a 12 volt battery and electrical system, the voltage can

(http://cdn.instructables.com/F2M/7RAP/HO22Z8DC/F2M7RAPHO22Z8DC.LARGE.jpg)

(http://cdn.instructables.com/FXK/NC9J/HNVJ0Q5M/FXKNC9JHNVJ0Q5M.LARGE.jpg)

(http://cdn.instructables.com/FVB/NN67/HO22Z8HT/FVBNN67HO22Z8HT.LARGE.jpg)

(http://cdn.instructables.com/FV9/XM1B/HNVJ0QAO/FV9XM1BHNVJ0QAO.LARGE.jpg)

(http://cdn.instructables.com/FHY/2JUA/HO22Z8HO/FHY2JUAHO22Z8HO.LARGE.jpg)


4 of 23 1/23/2014 4:21 PM

sometimes spike up and damage the Arduino if connected directly. Hence to beon the safer side, I have decided to use an LM7805 Voltage regulator to regulatethe 12 volts input voltage to 5 volts. The LM7805 IC generates an output of 5volts 0.5 amps. Since the GSM module can sometimes draw upto 2 Amperes ofcurrent, I have used 4 pcs of LM7805 IC to meet the requirement.

The Circuit :Cut the PCB using a hacksaw into a piece large enough to fit the 4pcs ofLM7805 IC (Refer to Pic. 1).

1.

Arrange the LM7805 in a parallel connection on the PCB (Refer to Pic. 1)and bend the leads of the IC to connect them in parallel(Refer to Pic. 3)

2.

Solder Wires to the 12v Input of LM7805, Ground Input, 5v Output of LM7805and Ground Output.

3.

Connect the Adapter plug to the 5v Output and Ground Output Wires. Thefinal product should look like Pic. 5

4.

Step 3: Preparing the Project Enclosure: Drilling H oles

(http://cdn.instructables.com/F78/Z4DJ/HNVJ0Q5P/F78Z4DJHNVJ0Q5P.LARGE.jpg)

(http://cdn.instructables.com/FH1/RMP0/HNTTG7Q6/FH1RMP0HNTTG7Q6.LARGE.jpg)

(http://cdn.instructables.com/F8E/773O/HNVJ0QSH/F8E773OHNVJ0QSH.LARGE.jpg)


5 of 23 1/23/2014 4:21 PM

In this step you will drill the holes to mount the Arduino and the GSM Antenna tothe project enclosure.

Drill four holes at the bottom of the project enclosure to secure the ArduinoUno in it.

1.

Drill a hole on the left wall of the enclosure big enough for the USB cable toconnect to the Arduino.

2.

Drill a hole on the right wall for the GSM Module Antenna.3.Drill two holes on the right wall for the Power Input wires.4.

Step 4: Wiring the GPS Module

(http://cdn.instructables.com/FTN/LGSW/HO22Z8LF/FTNLGSWHO22Z8LF.LARGE.jpg)


6 of 23 1/23/2014 4:21 PM

The GPS module must be connected in a detachable manner to the ArduinoUno. If wires are soldered to the module, then the module cannot be reused forsome other application or project. Hence I have used header pins to create adetachable connection between the GPS module and the Arduino. The followingare the steps to create a detachable connection:-

Cut four pieces of wire and solder the male header pins to one end of thewire. Wrap the soldered ends of the wire in insulation tape(Refer to Pic. 3).

1.

If female header pins are available, then solder the other ends of the wire tothe female header pins. (Top tip: If female header pins are not available,then briefly heat the ends of the wire over a candle to partially melt andloosen up the insulation on the wire. Then force each of the wires into theVcc, Gnd , Tx and Rx pins of the GPS Module. Refer to the Pic. 4)

2.

After connecting the wires to the Vcc, Gnd , Tx and Rx pins, the GPS moduleshould look like Pic. 6

3.

(http://cdn.instructables.com/F0C/0UQX/HNVJ0RCL/F0C0UQXHNVJ0RCL.LARGE.jpg)

(http://cdn.instructables.com/FDB/8GEP/HNVJ0RCQ/FDB8GEPHNVJ0RCQ.LARGE.jpg)

(http://cdn.instructables.com/FRI/YYI8/HO22Z8M0/FRIYYI8HO22Z8M0.LARGE.jpg)

(http://cdn.instructables.com/FS8/B319/HO22Z8MB/FS8B319HO22Z8MB.LARGE.jpg)

(http://cdn.instructables.com/F9A/5JP8/HNVJ0RD2/F9A5JP8HNVJ0RD2.LARGE.jpg)

(http://cdn.instructables.com/FW2/AZT2/HNVJ0RCW/FW2AZT2HNVJ0RCW.LARGE.jpg)


7 of 23 1/23/2014 4:21 PM

Step 5: Final Assembly

Now you can assemble all the parts of the Global Tracking System.Place the Arduino Uno in the project enclosure and fasten it with screws orzip tie(Refer to Pic. 1).

1.

Insert the Adapter plug into the Arduino and place the Voltage RegulatorCircuit into the enclosure. Insert the Input Voltage wires through the twoholes drilled in the enclosure(Refer to Pic. 3).

2.

Screw the GSM antenna in place(Refer to Pic. 5). Insert SIM card into theGSM module and place the module over the the Arduino Uno( Refer to Pic.7).

3.

Place the GPS module in the project enclosure and connect it to the GSMshield in the following manner. Connect the Vcc pin from the GPS module to5v on the GSM Shield. Connect the Gnd pin from the GPS module to Gndpin on the GSM Shield. Connect the RXD pin from the GPS module to Pin5 on the GSM Shield. Connect the TXD pin from the GPS module to Pin 4 onthe GSM Shield.

4.

(http://cdn.instructables.com/FET/Q8IV/HNVJ0T5J/FETQ8IVHNVJ0T5J.LARGE.jpg)

(http://cdn.instructables.com/FQQ/3B1R/HNVJ0T55/FQQ3B1RHNVJ0T55.LARGE.jpg)

(http://cdn.instructables.com/FPV/N3RX/HO22Z8PA/FPVN3RXHO22Z8PA.LARGE.jpg)

(http://cdn.instructables.com/FPR/W48C/HNVJ0T5U/FPRW48CHNVJ0T5U.LARGE.jpg)

(http://cdn.instructables.com/FKD/0PMB/HO22Z8P3/FKD0PMBHO22Z8P3.LARGE.jpg)

(http://cdn.instructables.com/FKG/YL9T/HO22Z8P7/FKGYL9THO22Z8P7.LARGE.jpg)

Show All 13 Images


8 of 23 1/23/2014 4:21 PM

Step 6: Programming the Arduino:

Before you can program the Arduino Uno, you must first install the Tiny GPSlibrary for the GPS Module.These are the steps to install the library :-

Download the Tiny GPS library for the Arduino. (link (https://github.com/mikalhart/TinyGPS/releases/tag/v13))

1.

Extract the zip file to the folder: " Libraries/Documents/Arduino/libraries "2.Now you would see the library under " Sketch --> Import Library " in theArduino IDE.

3.

You can proceed with the Arduino Uno programming.4.

The following is the source code for the Arduino. Copy the code below and loadit on the Arduino :-

//Program written for Global Car Tracking System by Jayvis Gonsalves#include <SoftwareSerial.h>#include <string.h> #include <TinyGPS.h>SoftwareSerial Sim900Serial(2, 3);byte buffer[64]; // buffer array for data recieve over serial portint count=0; // counter for buffer arraySoftwareSerial GPS(4, 5);TinyGPS gps;unsigned long fix_age;long lat, lon;float LAT, LON;void gpsdump(TinyGPS &gps);bool feedgps();void getGPS();void setup()

(http://cdn.instructables.com/F7M/ACDY/H0OJ2UXG/F7MACDYH0OJ2UXG.LARGE.jpg)


9 of 23 1/23/2014 4:21 PM

{ Sim900Serial.begin(19200); // the SIM900 baud rate GPS.begin(9600); // GPS module baud rate Serial.begin(9600); // the Serial port of Arduino baud rate. delay(500); Sim900_Inti();} void loop(){ Sim900Serial.listen(); if (Sim900Serial.available()) // If date is comming from from GSMshield) { while(Sim900Serial.available()) // reading data into char array { buffer[count ]=Sim900Serial.read(); // writing data into array if(count == 64)break; } Serial.write(buffer,count); // if no data transmission ends, writebuffer to hardware serial port Cmd_Read_Act(); //Read the 'COMMAND' sent to SIM900through SMS clearBufferArray(); // call clearBufferArray function to clearthe storaged data from the array count = 0; // set counter of while loop to zero } if (Serial.available()) // if data is available on hardwareserial port==> data is comming from PC or notebook Sim900Serial.println(Serial.read()); // write it to the GPRS shield}void clearBufferArray() // function to clear buffer array{ for (int i=0; i<count;i ) { buffer[i]=NULL;} // clear all index of array with commandNULL}void Sim900_Inti(void){ Sim900Serial.println("AT CMGF=1"); // Set GSM shield to sms mode Serial.println("AT CMGF=1"); delay(500); Sim900Serial.println("AT CNMI=2,2"); Serial.println("AT CMGF=1"); delay(500);}void Cmd_Read_Act(void) //Function reads the SMS sent toSIM900 shield.{ char buffer2[64]; for (int i=0; i<count;i ) { buffer2[i]=char(buffer[i]);} if (strstr(buffer2,"INSTRUCTABLES")) //Comparing password entered withpassword stored in program { Serial.println("Password Authenticated."); Serial.println("Sending reply SMS. ");


10 of 23 1/23/2014 4:21 PM

SendTextMessage(); } }void SendTextMessage(){ Sim900Serial.print("AT CMGF=1\r"); //Sending the SMS in text modedelay(100);Sim900Serial.println("AT CMGS = \"**********\"");//The predefined phone numberdelay(100);Sim900Serial.println("Please wait while Module calculates position");//thecontent of the messagedelay(100);Sim900Serial.println((char)26);//the ASCII code of the ctrl z is 26delay(100);Sim900Serial.println();int counter=0;GPS.listen();

for (;;){ long lat, lon; unsigned long fix_age, time, date, speed, course; unsigned long chars; unsigned short sentences, failed_checksum; long Latitude, Longitude; // retrieves /- lat/long in 100000ths of a degree gps.get_position(&lat, &lon, &fix_age); getGPS(); Serial.print("Latitude : "); Serial.print(LAT/1000000,7); Serial.print(" :: Longitude : "); Serial.println(LON/1000000,7); if (LAT == 0 && LON == 0) { continue; } counter ; if (counter<30) { continue; } Sim900Serial.print("AT CMGF=1\r"); //Sending the SMS in text mode delay(100); Sim900Serial.println("AT CMGS = \"**********\"");//The predefined phonenumber delay(100); Sim900Serial.print("Latitude : "); Sim900Serial.print(LAT/1000000,7); Sim900Serial.print(" :: Longitude : "); Sim900Serial.println(LON/1000000,7);//the content of the message delay(100); Sim900Serial.println((char)26);//the ASCII code of the ctrl z is 26 delay(100); Sim900Serial.println();


11 of 23 1/23/2014 4:21 PM

counter=0; break; } }

void getGPS(){ bool newdata = false; unsigned long start = millis(); while (millis() - start < 1000) { if (feedgps ()) { newdata = true; } } if (newdata) { gpsdump(gps); }}bool feedgps(){ while (GPS.available()) { if (gps.encode(GPS.read())) return true; }return 0;}void gpsdump(TinyGPS &gps){ gps.get_position(&lat, &lon); LAT = lat; LON = lon; { feedgps(); } }

Step 7: Testing


12 of 23 1/23/2014 4:21 PM

Now that you have built the 'Athena', it is time to install it in your vehicle. Thedevice can be installed anywhere in the car: the hood, cabin or trunk.Remember that the device must be hidden from view and difficult to locate by acar thief. The device must directly be connected to the 12v Car battery as it mustrun even when the car is switched off.

Steps to track down your vehicle using 'Athena' :-When your car is stolen and you wish to track your car, simply send a text1.

(http://cdn.instructables.com/FVN/ILN7/HNVJ0WFA/FVNILN7HNVJ0WFA.LARGE.jpg)

(http://cdn.instructables.com/F8D/XLPQ/HO22Z8SX/F8DXLPQHO22Z8SX.LARGE.jpg)


13 of 23 1/23/2014 4:21 PM

Make Comment

(/member/Swagata1/)

4 days ago Reply (C5TDMZKHQLO4YZB)

(/member/Swagata1/)

9 days ago Reply (CTP7Y6LHQDLYSIQ)

(/member/Swagata1/)

9 days ago Reply (C7UVBRZHQDLYSEE)

(/member/rootxion/)

9 days ago Reply (C9VOTAMHQCPMORT)

message containing the password to your car.Athena then verifies the password you entered with the password stored inits program. If the password matches, then Athena sends anacknowledgment SMS to the predefined phone/cell number stored in it.

2.

Athena then begins to calculate its GPS position and once a GPS lock isacheived, it sends the coordinates of its location to the number stored in itsprogram.

3.

After you receive the Coordinates in your message, copy them to the searchbar in google maps to reveal the position of your stolen car.

4.

And there you go...congratulations!!! You have built your very own Global CarTracking System.

If you have any difficulties building this instructable, do feel free to ask.

GREAT!!!!! NOW GO AHEAD AND CONSTRUCT ONE YOURSELF! !!!! : )

1-40 of108

Next » (http://www.instructables.com/id/Athena-The-Global-Car-Tracking-System/?&sort=ACTIVE&limit=40&offset=40#DISCUSS)

Swagata1 (/member/Swagata1/) says:

while(Sim900Serial.available()) // reading data into char array

{buffer[count ]=Sim900Serial.read(); // writing data into arrayif(count == 64)break;}i had a doubt in that part of the code isn't there a need for count++


And also please please supply a link for all the components.Would be very helpful


hey I too am from India(Bangalore).Could you let me know to how much the totalexpenditure will come in INR.

Thanks in advance

rootxion (/member/rootxion/) says:

Very nice and interesting project. I'm just getting started with this Arduino stuff andyour project was my motivation. Specifically I'm using:

Arduino Uno r3, IComsat GSM/GPRS v1.1, Parallax PMB-688 GPS


14 of 23 1/23/2014 4:21 PM

(/member/rootxion/)

9 days ago Reply (C6PPLQJHQCWGOKF)

(/member/instructable1234/)

11 days ago Reply (C5NULM9HQBR6982)

6(/member/Jayvis+Vineet+Gonsalves/)

11 days ago Reply (CX2DUZ8HQBX7QKI)


11 days ago Reply (C3JOLJ0HQBX7QKA)

(/member/asalvatierra/)

13 days ago Reply (CN35S3WHQ8XYLS7)

I even got a 16x4 Samsung LCD to test displaying coordinates on the LCD.

So far I have tested the GPS, LCD separately successfully. I'm trying the IComsatto send simple text messages for testing but it's not working. I'm trying theexamples on the supplied library (https://github.com/jgarland79/GSM_Shield(https://github.com/jgarland79/GSM_Shield)) but I receive a SIM900 error (will postpics on next message). I can see the power, status and net LEDs on the boardturned on and blinking. The SIM card I'm using is from AT&T.

As I can see on you code you don't use any special library to deal with the GSMother than the SoftwareSerial.h

Will try some other examples today and let you know if it works.

rootxion (/member/rootxion/) in reply to rootxion

As Skipper (Madagascar Penguins)would say "proublema resueltou".

Used a library I found at: https://gsm-shield-arduino.googlecode.com/files/BE... (https://gsm-shield-arduino.googlecode.com/files/BETA_GSM_GPRS_GPS_IDE100_v305.zip

And also had to set the jumpers onthe shield TX pin to #2 and RX pin to#3. Loaded one of the examples andit's now working fine. Now thateverything is working I'll start puttingit all together. Once I get everythingworking I'll post procedure, code, etc.

instructable1234 (/member/instructable1234/) says:

I may have missed it but is there a list withlinks to buy these materials, preferably onAmazon? Some of the materials I saw onthe supplies list are very vague. Thanks alot.

Jayvis Vineet Gonsalves (/member/Jayvis+Vineet+Gons alves/) (author) inreply to instructable1234

Can you specify for which items should I post the link

Jayvis Vineet Gonsalves (/member/Jayvis+Vineet+Gons alves/) (author) inreply to instructable1234

(removed by author or community request)

asalvatierra (/member/asalvatierra/) says:

Hi, great tutorial! Congratulations! Could you please tell me if the IComSat v1.1 -SIM900 GSM/GPRS Shield, should be an alternative for this project? The wiring ofthe GPS to the pins it's the same? Thanks!!

Jayvis Vineet Gonsalves (/member/Jayvis+Vineet+Gons alves/) (author) in


15 of 23 1/23/2014 4:21 PM


12 days ago Reply (C144WO1HQ9K7KX4)

(/member/asalvatierra/)

12 days ago Reply (CSMRNR5HQ9OLW1U)


12 days ago Reply (CGHDUCWHQAQDL2H)


12 days ago Reply (C54VC5LHQ9K7KQR)

(/member/mahesh94/)

19 days ago Reply (CE6ZKY1HQ0HS23U)


12 days ago Reply (CULBKRBHQ9K7KKG)

(/member/c1c2c3/)

26 days ago Reply (C31QZSBHPQO9H9I)


26 days ago Reply (C8IV44ZHPQO9JDD)

reply to asalvatierra

Thank you asalvatierra,

The IComSat should work well as analternative.

asalvatierra (/member/asalvatierra/) in reply to Jayvis Vineet Gonsalves

Hi! Thanks for your reply! What isthe specification of the pins 4 and 5that connect to GPS? IComSathave different pin order in theshield, so i very confused about theconnections from GPS to GSMshield. Thanks!

Jayvis Vineet Gonsalves (/member/Jayvis+Vineet+Gons alves/) (author) inreply to asalvatierra

Can you provide me the specification sheet of IComSat

Jayvis Vineet Gonsalves (/member/Jayvis+Vineet+Gons alves/) (author) inreply to asalvatierra

(removed by author or community request)

mahesh94 (/member/mahesh94/) says:

iam planning to use sim300, the same program can be used for tat also?

Jayvis Vineet Gonsalves (/member/Jayvis+Vineet+Gons alves/) (author) inreply to mahesh94

If SIM300 supports AT Commands (which I think it should), then the sameprogram should run.

c1c2c3 (/member/c1c2c3/) says:

Could you please give me the exact name of your GSM shieldAlso, which sim did you use?One more thing, do you think the adafruit gps will work for this project

Jayvis Vineet Gonsalves (/member/Jayvis+Vineet+Gons alves/) (author) inreply to c1c2c3

I had ordered the GSM shield from Ebay USA. Here is a link to the product(link (http://www.ebay.com/itm/NEW-SIMCOM-SIM900-Quad-band-GSM-GPRS-Shield-for-Arduino-with-micro-SD-card-slot-/151121095914?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item232f84ecea)).

I am from Mumbai, India and have used a prepaid SIM from MTNL.

The adafruit gps shield should work for this project. But I suggest that youhave a look at this GPS module on Ebay which is available for about halfthe price of the adafruit one. (link (http://www.ebay.com/itm/New-


16 of 23 1/23/2014 4:21 PM

(/member/jiannisgreece/)

26 days ago Reply (C57OUWZHPQ47JN7)


26 days ago Reply (COU79GRHPQO9IOZ)

(/member/oconnor77/)

26 days ago Reply (C691R7WHPPSQCFW)


26 days ago Reply (CZY4F54HPQO9IFY)

(/member/drin_pogi/)

27 days ago Reply (CAI037QHPOM2XOI)

(/member/Jimmy_Kerrigan/)

1 month ago Reply (CBZ08ABHP68868P)

UART-Serial-GPS-Module-For-Arduino-uController-w-Breakout-Board-Pins-/330725788211?pt=GPS_Devices&hash=item4d00cb0a33))

jiannisgreece (/member/jiannisgreece/) says:

thanks for the reply!!!another question is, how can i learn the commands in order the arduino tocommunicate with the gsm/gprs module, for future use? Did you use any e-book?do you have any suggestions?I have some intermidiate knowledge in c programmingthanks !jiannis from greece

Jayvis Vineet Gonsalves (/member/Jayvis+Vineet+Gons alves/) (author) inreply to jiannisgreece

Hi Jiannis, The commands used for communicating with the GSM moduleare known as 'AT Commands'. If you google the word AT commands it willthrow up a lot of info about it. Here is a link of some other AT commandsthat you could use (link (http://www.engineersgarage.com/tutorials/at-commands?page=4)).

oconnor77 (/member/oconnor77/) says:

So im not quite sure I understand what kind of service fee's this thing wouldrequire besides your normal cell phone fee that you are texting from. Where didthe sim card come from?

Jayvis Vineet Gonsalves (/member/Jayvis+Vineet+Gons alves/) (author) inreply to oconnor77

You do not incur any service fees. You are only charged for the SMS sentfrom your mobile phone to the tracking system and from the trackingsystem to your mobile phone.

drin_pogi (/member/drin_pogi/) says:

"+" is missing

Jimmy_Kerrigan (/member/Jimmy_Kerrigan/) says:

Hi,Congratulations for this circuit, this is clever,very inexpensive ... This is a good proof ofconcept.But I work in automotive electronics and, inmy opinion, the hardware implementation isnot adapted to the use profile. Thus, in theactual state, the reliability and lifetime of thiscircuit will be extremely bad.First, for me, the power supply circuit is notonly awfull, but also totally not acceptable forautomotive use.In general, it is impossible to use linearregulators with quiescent currents above100mA, even with body controllers(Tmax=85°C) because of the heating of thecomponent. For information, I used a


17 of 23 1/23/2014 4:21 PM

LM7805 in a design, for external sensor supply. With a D-PAK package we nevermanage to obtain more than 300mA without having thermal shutdown, at ambienttemperature (~25°C).In addition, the reliability of this solution is very bad.- If the 4 ICs are not exactly matched, the current won't be equally distributedbetween them.- If one of the 4 ICs breaks or goes in thermal shutdown, the others will have towithstand a bigger current, then they will heat more, and will be more likely tobreak or go in thermal shutdown -> avalanche, failure of one compromises thewhole power supply.- I'm not 100% sure about this one : there is a high risk of oscillation with suchparallel circuitry.- No additional output capacitor for the regulators ? -> High oscillation risk.- No additional input capacitor for the regulators ? -> Noise rejection on theon-board battery network, in paticular with high-frequency / high-current MCUmodules ! This is not strictly dangerous because the requirements on this point aremostly normative, but it is a risk for oher ECUs in the car - I think the radio is theweakest victim. On automotive ECUs, it is strongly advised to have an input PIfilter.- Regulators are packed close to each other -> bad heat dissipation. Theregulators should be at least mounted on a metalic heat dissipator.- No transient protection -> The 7805 IC can withstand the load-dump 35V voltage,but must be protected against transient voltage (100Vautomotive transients, ESDs...). A TVS is the roxor solution, ceramic input capacitors can also do the job (2xX7R 22nF minimum, in serial, 90°C from each other in order to avoid aggravedshort-circuit in case one of the two breaks because of mechanical flexion). Note :having a big electrolithic capacitor on the input isn't enough, because they can'tabsorb all the transients.- Power consumption : Vbatt x Iquiescent : 24W nominal / 32W max ! (note :battery voltage can rise up to 16V DC) Is there a sleeping mode ? Or is itconnected on the APC (switched battery voltage) ? It is quite high for a circuit thatmust be supplied permanently ... Car batteries have a good capacity, but if the caris left stopped a long time, there is a little risk of having the battery depleted.- You say that the module consumes up to 2A, but is it DC ? If it is just a transient,it is more wise to design a proper L-C filter - or PI filter - in order to absorb thiscurrent peak, better than over-sizing the whole power supply. It would be morereliable, and safer since a short-circuit will drain less current, then avoid currentleaking from the battery when the car is stopped, and limiting the risk of fire (wiresor PCB tracks burning ...).

I think a power supply with linear regulators could be used, with proper protectionsand heat dissipation, if the circuit is supplied on a switched battery voltage, or if ithas a sleeping mode. If it is connected to the permanent battery voltage, the circuitwill be even more exposed to failure, because it will constantly heat. Reliability andlifetime of ICs lower when temperature raises ...This is what I think about the power supply. About the rest, don't forget that themodules use consumer or industrial rated components. On the Arduinio UNO, themain components are rated for 85°C. It won't be a problem if the module is insidethe car, but it will if it is hidden behind the hood, close to the motor (cooling systemis regulated at 90°C, for instance) ... Even below the sheet metal of the car bodythe temperature can rise far higher than 70°C during summer ... In thisenvironment, some components can go in thermal breakdown very easily. And Iam not even talking about the GPS and GSM modules and the plastic case ...

For me, the power supply should be changed, using a DC/DC switching module. Itshould be connected on the switched battery voltage (not supplied when the car isstopped).If it has to be checking the position of the car even with the motor off (which is notabsurd : wrecker, pound ...) then it should have a sleeping mode, which cuts themain power supply most of the time, then activates it periodically for positionchecking. And it should be hidden in the cabin or in the trunk, where thetemperature is reasonnable.

I admit that these are not small modifications, but in the actual state, I don't think


18 of 23 1/23/2014 4:21 PM


28 days ago Reply (C6SQTFHHPLWYTN3)

(/member/jiannisgreece/)

1 month ago Reply (CRM51K4HPG4OL42)


28 days ago Reply (C8DBUYHHPLWYTLP)

(/member/nbeched/)

1 month ago Reply (CC7TM86HO7XJ3SU)

that this circuit will last long in a real car ... Adapting a circuit for automotiveenvironment is always difficult.

Jayvis Vineet Gonsalves (/member/Jayvis+Vineet+Gons alves/) (author) inreply to Jimmy_Kerrigan

Thank you Mr. Kerrigan for taking the time to write such a comprehensivecomment. I will definitely work on improving the power supply circuit once Icomplete all my applications to the US Universities. I will upload theupdates to the circuit by the end of January.

jiannisgreece (/member/jiannisgreece/) says:

very nice project!! i am new in this field, but i definately would give it a try to makeone myself!!!Jayvis Vineet Gonsalves, is it so easy as you describe? i am planning to buy themodules from ebay.

Jayvis Vineet Gonsalves (/member/Jayvis+Vineet+Gons alves/) (author) inreply to jiannisgreece

Thank you.

Yes, this project is very easy to build.

I only need to improve on the power supply circuit and make it more robust.I will upload the updates to the circuit by the end of January.

nbeched (/member/nbeched/) says:

I wouldn't connect any LM7805 units in parallel, this is very bad.

You can get very inexpensive switching regulators that require no externalcomponents.We're talking about $10-$15 for a 5V @ 3A regulator that is connected much thesame as a 7805, but is a lot more reliable.

Awesome instructable otherwise.


19 of 23 1/23/2014 4:21 PM

6(/member/DeusXMachina/)

1 month ago Reply (CLDIFIUHOHYIN4F)

(/member/jproffer/)

1 month ago Reply (CDS4TD3HP7RH52O)

(/member/nbeched/)

1 month ago Reply (CDSELWGHPF4FLLB)

DeusXMachina (/member/DeusXMachina/) in reply to nbeched

I second this. If you have one of theLRs fail due to a high current load, theother 3 will likely fail immediately after.It's much better to use a singleregulator, then chain several togetherin parallel, for many reasons.

You should be able to get one for WAYless than $10. Without muchoptimizing, I found some for ~$4 onDigikey:http://www.digikey.com/product-detail/en/LT323AT%23PBF/LT323AT%23PBF-ND/888959

If one hunted around, one could getthem for even less. I've seen one tothat spec for around $2 each, evenwithout bulk discount.

jproffer (/member/jproffer/) in reply to DeusXMachina

you could just use an outboardtransistor (aka current booster),using a darlington or 2n3055.

nbeched (/member/nbeched/) in reply to jproffer

As I care too much about efficiency, Irespectfully disagree :)

See using any linear regulator iswasteful of power. Adding anexternal transistor turns your existinglinear regulator into a more powerfulone (capable of more outputcurrent), but at the end of the day, itis still a linear regulator.

Linear regulator acts as a series"variable resistor" that makes surethe output voltage is regulated (to acertain extent). So if you have 5V x2A =10W at the output (or a 10Wload), you have a 12V x 2A =24W atthe input. So you're wasting 14W,realistically car battery is at 14-ishvolts, so you'd be wasting about18W of power. In other words, youcar "sees" the thing you connectedto it as a 28W load while only 10Wof that are being delivered to theactual load.

Switching regulators act as(AC-)transformers but for DCcircuits.So if you have the same 5V@2Aload, the input current consumptionwill be 10W/14V=0.714A (or about


20 of 23 1/23/2014 4:21 PM

(/member/jjones149/)

1 month ago Reply (CAVRKLCHOHYJN99)

6(/member/DeusXMachina/)

1 month ago Reply (C9DMCQQHOHYIN4T)

(/member/dingduck/)

2 months ago Reply (CF411KKHO7XDX97)

4(/member

/MrE/)

2 months ago Reply (CZ75RJMHO7XJUKZ)

(/member/Horef/)

2 months ago Reply (CCBM21GHO7XJACU)

700mA).That assumes 100% efficiency. Realistically over 90% efficiency isachievable, so if 10W is at the load, you'll have about 10W/0.9=11.1W onthe input.11.1W/14V=0.793A which is about 800mA.So with a switching regulator, the higher the input voltage - the lower theinput current at the same load conditions.

If you add a backup battery at the input, this will become very relevant onthe battery life.Of course, if you add one on the 5V side, you won't have to worry nearly asmuch about it, but... oh well, I probably said enough :)

Merry Christmas!

jjones149 (/member/jjones149/) says:

Second the idea for a backup battery addition. Great instructable, going to buildthis to track golf carts... You got my vote!

DeusXMachina (/member/DeusXMachina/) says:

Oh and one more thing. You can drop 12V to 5V using a linear regulator, but it'svery inefficient (it dissipates that voltage drop as heat). What you really want is aDC/DC switching converter (aka buck converter) That'll run you at most $10 orless. Here is an example:http://www.adafruit.com/products/1385

Adafruit is awesome and I love supporting them, but again you could get more forless if you're willing to hunt.

dingduck (/member/dingduck/) says:

For someone clumsy with 2 left hands like me, would you be able to offer apre-packaged solution?

MrE (/member/MrE/) in reply to dingduck

Try this or something like it.http://dx.com/p/mini-multi-functional-home-monitoring-gsm-gprs-personal-position-tracker-for-child-elder-white-208470

Horef (/member/Horef/) says:

this is how im reading your post :D

(http://cdn.instructables.com/FWG/0MQ0/HO7XJACT/FWG0MQ0HO7XJACT.LARGE.gif)


21 of 23 1/23/2014 4:21 PM


2 months ago Reply (C02NH12HO7XG07S)

4(/member

/MrE/)

2 months ago Reply (CZGRYO6HO7XJUFR)

6(/member/Ploopy/)

2 months ago Reply (CU5ZR6YHO7XE8J9)

(/member/karlosjackel/)

2 months ago Reply (C9S3Y2CHO7XHHKA)


2 months ago Reply (CZMOLRHHO7XG1BZ)

Make Comment

Jayvis Vineet Gonsalves (/member/Jayvis+Vineet+Gons alves/) (author)in reply to Horef

In some years you may even be able to smell and taste myinstructable!

MrE (/member/MrE/) in reply to Jayvis Vineet Gonsalves

Ohh, look what I read aboutyesterday.http://newsfeed.time.com/2013/11/23/get-your-chocolate-fix-without-the-guilt-electronic-lollipop-can-simulate-any-taste/i hope somebody does aninstructable about this. Eventhough I know this is proprietarystuff. But think about it the foodsection of instructables would beawesome.

Ploopy (/member/Ploopy/) says:

cool!

karlosjackel (/member/karlosjackel/) says:

Brilliant instrucable! And also nice work in including the arduino sketch as well.Regards,Karl

Jayvis Vineet Gonsalves (/member/Jayvis+Vineet+Gons alves/) (author) inreply to karlosjackel

Thank you Karl. By the way, is that a Shelby Cobra in your instructablesprofile pic?

1-40 of108

Next » (http://www.instructables.com/id/Athena-The-Global-Car-Tracking-System/?&sort=ACTIVE&limit=40&offset=40#DISCUSS)


22 of 23 1/23/2014 4:21 PM

About Us

Who We Are (/about/)

Advertise (/advertise/)

Contact (/about/contact.jsp)

Jobs (/community/Positions-available-at-Instructables/)

Help (/community?categoryGroup=Help)

Find Us

Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/instructables)

Youtube (http://www.youtube.com/user/instructablestv)

Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/instructables)

Pinterest (http://www.pinterest.com/instructables)

Google+ (https://plus.google.com/+instructables)

Resources

For Teachers (/teachers/)

Artists in Residence (/group/air/)

Gift Pro Account (/account/give?sourcea=footer)

Forums (/community/)

Answers (/tag/type-question/?sort=RECENT)

Mobile

Download our new apps foriOS and android!

Android (https://play.google.com/store

/apps/details?id=com.adsk.instructables)

iOS(https://itunes.apple.com

/app/instructables/id586765571)

Go Pro Today » (/account/gopro?sourcea=footer)

We're Hiring! » (/community/Positions-available-at-Instructables/)

Terms of service (http://usa.autodesk.com/adsk/servlet/item?siteID=123112&id=21959721) |

Privacy Policy (http://usa.autodesk.com/adsk/servlet/item?siteID=123112&id=21292079) | Legal Notices & Trademarks (http://usa.autodesk.com/legal-notices-trademarks/) |

Mobile Site (http://m.instructables.com) (http://usa.autodesk.com/adsk/servlet/pc/index?id=20781545&siteID=123112)

Join!

All content on Instructables including How To's, Downloads, Images, Comments are © Copyright 2013 Autodesk Inc. All rights reserved.

English


23 of 23 1/23/2014 4:21 PM