Hi,
I was asked to come up with a prototype for a project. I was suggested Arduino as a good starter for this solution that I was asked to present by a colleague...
I have started into the getting started stuff and have ordered a starter kit, but wanted some opinions on the project as a whole since there are many experts having already experienced probably what I am looking to do.
The goal: Create some interface to a coin acceptor that can print some tickets, or coupon type receipt, and have that interface to some cellphone to send the data via mobile, to get real time reporting.
My thinking is ArduinoBT to communicate with the phone (maybe blackberry or iphone), and then just breadboard the printer and coin acceptor for the time being.
Perhaps more detail...
So, user drops in coin(s), arduino determines (via CCTalk protocol I would presume) the value dropped in, and sends print to printer, then, also sends update back to cell phone. Ideally, the cell phone could also issue a print command back to arduino->printer.
Is that even possible?
Anyway, look forward to your input/suggestions/guidance as this is going to be a totaly new experience and can't wait to start ordering parts.
Also, this probably doesn't make any difference at this point, it will be self contained and powered by 12V Sealed Lead Acid battery with no plug in and could only be replaced once a week. I think this should be Ok.