Arduino + GPS Receiver + 3G Modem = Car Alarm

Forum 2005-2010 (read only) Software Interfacing
1

Hi guys,

Not long ago my brother wanted to know if I could make a van alarm that would send a text message to a cellphone notifying that the car had been broken into.

Are there '2g/3g cellphone modems' that you insert a sim into and connect to an arduino's serial pins? It would have to be able to:

  • Monitor sensors eg reed switch, motion sense, infrared.
  • Monitor GPS coordinates (using arduino gps shield?)
  • Receive text commands like 'activate' 'location'
  • Send status messages + GPS data to user.

Thanks in advance for replies :sunglasses:
Tim.

2

Are there '2g/3g cellphone modems' that you insert a sim into and connect to an arduino's serial pins?

Yes, there are. Start at sparkfun.com to find what you need, then buy it somewhere else.

It would have to be able to:

  • Monitor sensors eg reed switch, motion sense, infrared.
  • Monitor GPS coordinates (using arduino gps shield?)
  • Receive text commands like 'activate' 'location'
  • Send status messages + GPS data to user.

Well, that's a lot for the cellphone modem to do. The cellphone modem and other stuff on an Arduino would make the Arduino able to do all that stuff, easily.

I'd argue, though, that the activation of the system should not require sending it a text message. Activation should be automatic when the ignition is shut off.

Finding the vehicle after it has been stolen, when you forgot to arm the system is much more difficult than finding it when you did arm the system.

3

Start at sparkfun.com to find what you need, then buy it somewhere else.

Blarg...
I agree ;D